A review by bobinsbooknook
Three Things About Elsie by Joanna Cannon

mysterious sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

This is my first fiction read by Joanna Cannon and was excited to give it a go after loving her medical memoir. 

Similar to the medical memoir, Joanna has captured beautifully a sense of vulnerability in her main character Flo and her mental state throughout this book.

The plot did take a while to get into and progress for large parts of the book which did make it feel like a slow read when waiting for the mysteries to unravel and whilst I was caught by surprise on some parts, the biggest “twist” in the book I sadly had predicted at the 20% mark which was a shame. 

The last couple of chapters and specially those around present day Flo laying on the floor were very emotional. 

Overall a good read though the pacing felt off for me and had it been slightly more concise may have packed a greater punch for me personally.