61 pages • 2 hours read
Empire Falls
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Book Brief
483
Novel • Fiction
Empire Falls, Maine • Contemporary
2001
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Empire Falls by Richard Russo, Miles Roby manages the Empire Grill in a declining small town, unable to escape due to family obligations. He grapples with his daughter Tick's well-being, his ex-wife Janine's new relationship, and his manipulative employer Mrs. Whiting, while reflecting on missed opportunities and secret regrets. The narrative explores themes of family, faith, and hope amidst economic and social decay. The story includes depictions of abuse and gun violence.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Humorous
Reviews & Readership
126,578 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Empire Falls by Richard Russo beautifully captures small-town life with rich character development and wit. While some find its pacing slow and ending predictable, its deeply human insights and engaging plot are widely praised. Overall, Russo’s storytelling offers a poignant, reflective experience despite minor flaws in narrative momentum.
Who Should Read Empire Falls?
Readers who relish deep character studies and small-town dynamics will enjoy Richard Russo's Empire Falls. Fans of John Irving's The Cider House Rules or Elizabeth Strout's Olive Kitteridge will appreciate the novel’s rich tapestry of human experiences and poignant storytelling.
126,578 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Christina “Tick” Roby
Christina “Tick” Roby
An intelligent and sensitive young woman who occasionally struggles with self-doubt and anxiety, grappling with the contradictions of adolescence and the expectations placed on her by adults.
Janine Roby/Comeau
Janine Roby/Comeau
Miles's soon-to-be ex-wife, primarily concerned with appearances and material concerns, who navigates her own insecurities and complicated relationships with her family.
Francine Whiting (née Robideaux)
Francine Whiting (née Robideaux)
A powerful and controlling figure in the community, Francine's influence extends over many lives, and her motivations remain enigmatic throughout the story.
483
Novel • Fiction
Empire Falls, Maine • Contemporary
2001
Adult
18+ years
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