The novel has all the ideal makings of a classic rom-com, complete with the quaint country town, mysterious yet kind men, headstrong women, and all the old and kooky souls that usually come with this setting. I did also find myself getting more and more engrossed in the story, however it was hard to determine whether this was because I knew how it was going to end, or because I was indeed sucked in by the language and the plot. Their flustered and self-critical approach provides the novel with the perfect base on which to build up to these more strong-minded women they become by the end of the book, sure of their decisions and their lives in Wicklow. Our initial wants of the plotline and character desires are met, and the main protagonists – Anna Kate and Natalie – are largely likeable and easy to root for. There is something comforting and satisfying to the ‘everything coming together’ aspect of the book which – although obvious – Webber does do well. While my critiques of this novel are evident, I didn’t find this an unpleasant read. Not an unenjoyable read, but one that could leave you unsatisfied, especially when coupled with the overdone metaphors and lack of depth to the main protagonists.
#HEATHER WEBBER FULL#
The environment and famous café are full of dainty delights, however it does little to delve beyond this one-dimensional starting point. A book which remains at surface-level, the writer entices the reader through her likable characters and small-town sweetness. A light-hearted and dreamy novel, Midnight at the Blackbird Café soothes the reader with its gentle imagery and hints of magical realism.