Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
28(28%)
4 stars
35(35%)
3 stars
37(37%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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I truly liked this book.

It had a unique charm as it allowed you to leave your own personal imprint on it.

Some women have raised complaints that Kate's voice seems to be too much in line with how a man imagines women think.

However, from my perspective, Mr. Price has crafted a story that refrains from dictating to the reader what they ought to be thinking. Instead, it leaves the interpretation entirely up to the reader.

I found this aspect to be extremely refreshing.

The writing in the book was of excellent quality.

It had a certain elegance and fluidity that made it a pleasure to read.

The author's ability to create vivid characters and a captivating plot was truly remarkable.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an engaging and thought-provoking read.

It offers a different kind of reading experience that challenges the reader to form their own opinions and interpretations.

I look forward to seeing what other works Mr. Price has in store for us in the future.

July 15,2025
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The best thing about my life up to this point is that nobody believes it.

I gave up trying to make people listen a long time ago. I'm just an ordinary middle-aged white woman who has been going strong for fifty-seven years, with firm eyes and good teeth.

You can touch me, and I'll respond. But it got to the point where I felt like the first woman to land from Pluto. People would ask how I could have endured all that I claimed and still be able to function.

I would tell the truth, forcing a smile, and then watch them doubt me. So, I've remained silent for years.

Now, I've changed my mind and will give it another try. There are two big new reasons. Nobody in my family lives for very long, and last week I found someone I had lost or given up on.

All he knows about me is what he's heard. He hasn't seen me since he was a baby and I disappeared while he was taking a nap.

At this late stage, I may very well be the last person he wants. I'm his biological mother, but he's almost forty and has managed without me.

I'm determined to reach out to him and try to make amends, or at least let him know the truth about me.
July 15,2025
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My daughter placed it at the very top of her best reads, and I can clearly understand the reason behind it.

We have a female protagonist who becomes increasingly tough as the story progresses with each page. The plot is twisty and complex, lacking any happy endings, neatly tied up loose ends, or redemptions. What's more, it presents a fun and surprising approach to using metaphors, served up in a Southern style.

While I wouldn't necessarily put it at the top of my own list, I must admit that I simply didn't want to put it down. The unique combination of these elements creates a captivating and engaging reading experience that keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end.

It's a book that challenges the reader's expectations and takes them on a thrilling journey through a world filled with mystery, drama, and unexpected turns.

Whether you're a fan of Southern literature or simply looking for a good read, this book is definitely worth checking out.
July 15,2025
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I first read this about 30 years ago. At that time, I was deeply attracted by the story. However, when I read it again recently, I found that I enjoyed it even more.


Kate Vaiden is a truly remarkable character. She is a strong, unconventional woman who defies the norms and expectations of society. Her independence and determination are inspiring. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, she never gives up on her beliefs and dreams.


The author has done an excellent job of creating a vivid and engaging story. The characters are well-developed and the plot is full of twists and turns. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about strong, independent women and their struggles and triumphs.

July 15,2025
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Reynolds Price’s style takes an effort to be comfortable with,

at least with this book. At first, it might seem a bit challenging and unfamiliar.

However, as one progresses through the pages, a transformation occurs.

By the time I’d finished it, it had coalesced into a warm and inviting story.

The details and the way the narrative unfolds make it feel so real and genuine.

One could even believe it was a memoir instead of a work of fiction.

The characters come alive, and their experiences tug at the heartstrings.

I’m glad I stuck with it,

because it turned out to be a truly rewarding read.

It makes me appreciate Price’s unique writing style and his ability to create a world that draws the reader in and doesn’t let go until the very end.

Overall, it’s a book that I would highly recommend to others who are willing to put in the effort and discover its hidden gems.
July 15,2025
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Reynolds Price accomplishes an outstanding feat of delving deep into human nature and presenting it to his readers in an extremely kind manner.

I am reluctant to disclose the plot, so I will simply state that the story pertains to loss, sadness, and departure.

Fate exerted a significant influence on Kate's youthful life, imparting tough lessons regarding love and loss, and compelling her to embark on a quest for a place where neither of these can touch her.

The author's细腻描绘allows readers to vividly experience the emotions and turmoil within the characters.

Price's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, making the story a captivating read from start to finish.

His exploration of human nature adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Overall, Reynolds Price's work is a remarkable piece of literature that offers valuable insights into the human condition.
July 15,2025
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Fathers have the ability to walk out on entire broods of children every single day of the year and never look back, never send a dime. This is regarded as sad yet somewhat natural. However, an outlaw mother is the absolute worst nightmare that any man could ever face.

The protagonist in this story is a young woman who makes the heart-wrenching decision to abandon her infant son. In reality, she is not only abandoning her child but also everyone who holds her dear. Strangely enough, at certain moments, I found myself empathizing with her.

I truly relished this book. It shares many similarities with other Southern novels that I have adored. It vividly brings to life the essence of small town North Carolina living. What makes it truly stand out, though, is Price's distinct voice that shines through every page. It adds a unique flavor and depth to the story, making it a truly captivating read.
July 15,2025
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This book is very unlike most Southern novels that I have read before.

I'm still in the process of trying to figure out what I truly think of Kate as a heroine. She doesn't conform to the classic sense of a heroine. However, as you closely look at the arc of her life, it gradually starts to make sense.

It's an intriguing read that managed to keep my attention throughout. But to be honest, I'm not entirely sure what I'll ultimately take away from it.

The writing is nicely done, with fun North Carolinian dialogue and phrases that add a unique charm to the story. It makes the reading experience more enjoyable and immersive.

Overall, it's a book that has its own merits and drawbacks, and I'll need some more time to fully process my thoughts and feelings about it.
July 15,2025
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Reynolds Price is truly one of my all-time favorite authors.

His remarkable gift lies in the fact that his words have the power to vividly paint pictures of both the characters and the setting.

In the case of "Kate Vaiden", the story is a poignant one. Kate Vaiden's parents met a tragic end when she was just a young girl.

The narrative unfolds as she looks back through the years, reflecting on the decisions she made in the wake of her parents' death.

Surprisingly, she harbors no regrets. However, there is a deep longing within her for the son she was forced to abandon.

This longing adds a layer of complexity and emotion to the story, making it a truly captivating read.

Price's ability to bring Kate's character to life and make the reader empathize with her is a testament to his skill as a writer.

Overall, "Kate Vaiden" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates great literature.
July 15,2025
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I was right in the middle of reading this book when life, in the form of illness, stepped in and disrupted my plans.

I can't really put into words exactly why, but whenever this occurs (and I suppose I have to come to terms with the fact that it will keep happening at regular intervals for the remainder of my life), I almost always find it impossible to pick up the book I was reading again, no matter how much I was enjoying it at the time.

It's as if the book becomes contaminated with all the pain and confusion of those lost weeks. Maybe one day I'll return to this particular one, because I truly was deriving a great deal of pleasure from it. This novel, like all of Price's works, is of high quality, so don't let my inability to finish it deter you from giving it a try.

As a side note, I believe the cover of the edition I read (the original American hardcover) is perhaps the most stunning book cover I've ever laid eyes on in my entire life. It doesn't come across nearly as well in the tiny version you see here, so I guess you'll just have to seek out a genuine copy and see for yourself.
July 15,2025
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The original text seems a bit fragmented. However, I'll do my best to rewrite and expand it based on what's provided.

The article contains some very lovely parts.

It's almost a 5. The beauty within it is truly captivating.

Each of these lovely parts seems to add a unique charm.

They draw the reader in and make them reluctant to put the article down.

It's as if the author has carefully crafted these sections to create a sense of wonder and delight.

The way the words flow and the ideas are presented is truly remarkable.

It's no wonder that it's almost rated a 5.

These lovely parts are like precious gems镶嵌 within the text, shining bright and adding value to the overall piece.

They make the reading experience not only enjoyable but also memorable.

One can't help but appreciate the effort and talent that went into creating such a wonderful article.

July 15,2025
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I read this many years ago and only had a vague memory of loving it. However, in the last couple of days, I decided to reread it. To my surprise, Kate Vaiden turned out to be an amazing creation. Price has managed to endow her with such complexity that it is possible to both love her and yet not fully understand her or the reasons behind the decisions she makes.


You might find yourself disagreeing with her decisions or even thinking that they are not ethical. But despite all that, you can still love and accept her as a human being. This is a testament to the power of Price's writing and her ability to create a character that is so multi-faceted and real.


As I read through the story, I was constantly engaged by Kate's journey and the choices she had to make. It made me reflect on my own life and the decisions I have made. Overall, it was a truly remarkable reading experience that I will not soon forget.

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