Everything Here is Beautiful

"One doctor I'd spoken with explained that such episodes could be triggered by stress, or drugs, or trauma, or exhaustion. Or sometimes, nothing at all." ~ 5%

Older sister Miranda is fiercely protective of her younger impulsive sister, Lucia. When their mother dies and Lucia starts to hear voices, Miranda fights for her sister's needs and a proper doctor's diagnosis. Lucia goes through a marriage, leaving her husband, having a baby and making other life-changing decisions all while trying to escape her own mental illness. Meanwhile her sister struggles with when and how much to help.

Let me preface this review by saying I am very critical with books about mental health or a chronic illness. Even with a fiction genre, it is important the author stays true to fact and not wing it when describing a diagnosis, character's actions or symptoms. Because I have done a lot of personal research, I can easily tell when an author is bluffing their way through. I am relieved to report that Mira T. Lee seems to have done her research in Everything Here is Beautiful. 

But mental illness was not the main story line. Family drama took the driver's seat. The main characters had to make tough decisions, know when to take a step back, and when to intervene on a relative's behalf. And sometimes, we have to let go and save our damn selves.

"She is not resentful by nature." ~ 68%

The author did a good job with pacing the story but it was just okay. Nothing about this novel stands out. It was not a page-turner but more a steady read. I recommend it for readers that don't mind taking a slow journey through a book. The bond between these two sisters will eventually grip you.

Happy Pub Day, Mira T. Lee! Everything Here is Beautiful is now available.

Disclaimer: This book was received directly from the publisher for review purposes only. In no way does it influence my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins.

Title: Everything Here is Beautiful
Author: Mira T. Lee
Published: January 2018
Pages: 368
Edition: Galley
Challenge: Popsugar—A Book About Mental Health
Rating: 🖤 🖤