55 pages • 1 hour read
304
Short Story Collection • Fiction
2015
Adult
18+ years
Night at the Fiestas by Kirstin Valdez Quade is a collection of stories set in and around New Mexico, exploring the intricate lives of characters who navigate themes of identity, family, and socio-political tensions. The stories depict various eras and communities, examining the impact of race, class, gender, and ethno-religious identity against the backdrop of New Mexico's historical and cultural landscape. The book includes descriptions of alcohol abuse and addiction, domestic violence, attempted suicide, anti-gay bias, gun violence, child abandonment, and murder.
Mysterious
Emotional
Bittersweet
Contemplative
2,204 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Night at the Fiestas by Kirstin Valdez Quade impresses with rich, evocative prose and well-developed characters, capturing the complexities of family and cultural identity. Positive reviews highlight her storytelling prowess. However, some critics note a tendency towards bleakness and occasional predictability in plotlines. Overall, a compelling and thought-provoking collection.
Readers who cherish emotionally rich, character-driven tales set in the American Southwest will love Kirstin Valdez Quade’s Night at the Fiestas. Fans of Flannery O'Connor's A Good Man is Hard to Find and Annie Proulx's Close Range: Wyoming Stories will appreciate Quade's exploration of family, faith, and cultural identity.
2,204 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
304
Short Story Collection • Fiction
2015
Adult
18+ years
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