Review: Love in the Present Tense by Catherine Ryan Hyde

Title: Love in the Present Tense
Author: Catherine Ryan Hyde
Genre: Adult, fiction
Publication: 2006
Source: For review, Teen Book Scene

Summary: Pearl has lived a rough life, and at age 13, gets pregnant, giving birth to a sweet and bright boy, Leonard. She loves him very much and tries her hardest to give him a good life, but one day, when Leonard is just five years old, she drops him off to be watched by their neighbor Mitch, as usual... but this day, she never returns. This story is about what happens both before and after, involving secrets of the past and "forever love."

My Thoughts: Beautiful, stunning, and deeply moving are all words that come to mind when I think of this novel and the experience I had while reading it. The chapters are told by alternating narrators during a variety of different times in a non-linear fashion. The myriad voices are incredibly distinct, unique, and real, enabling us to see many sides of the story.

This story of love, family and identity is both haunting and unforgettable with characters who will speak to you and capture your heart. It is impossible not to fall in love with the majority of them, especially Leonard, and even Pearl. I felt many emotions while reading and felt close to the characters even though they tend to be distant and complex.

There are many different layers to this novel and you will uncover many different emotions and feelings with each layer. If you are looking for a deep and moving novel that will invoke feelings of both sadness and hope, love and joy, pick up a copy of Love in the Present Tense. I highly recommend it and will not soon forget it.

My Rating: 5/5