It has already happened a couple times this year, that it takes me a second try to finish and appreciate a novel. It becomes more obvious that it’s all about timing. The right time, for the right book. Unsurprisingly I’m really glad I took a second chance on Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens.

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
How long can you protect your heart?
For years, rumors of the “Marsh Girl” have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when handsome Chase Andrews is found dead, the locals immediately suspect Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl. But Kya is not what they say. Sensitive and intelligent, she has survived for years alone in the marsh that she calls home, finding friends in the gulls and lessons in the sand. Then the time comes when she yearns to be touched and loved. When two young men from town become intrigued by her wild beauty, Kya opens herself to a new life – until the unthinkable happens.
Perfect for fans of Barbara Kingsolver and Karen Russell, Where the Crawdads Sing is at once an exquisite ode to the natural world, a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, and a surprising tale of possible murder. Owens reminds us that we are forever shaped by the children we once were, and that we are all subject to the beautiful and violent secrets that nature keeps.
Where the Crawdads Sing – Delia Owens
my thoughts
I’m pretty late to the game, so I’ll keep this short.
The story, moreover the way it was written, one word – BEAUTIFUL. There is a reason why this books is so popular. Where the Crawdads Sing is a slow moving story and it is carried 100% by the characters. Even though there is a murder and a case in front of a jury, the backstory of how it came to it is what makes this book so fantastic.
The author has a wonderful subtle voice. Nothing into your face, just small observations and interactions, but in the end, like a mosaic, there is this big picture, that just hits a nerve.
It felt incredibly well put together. It’s hard to describe but it all worked perfectly and in harmony, the story, the plot, the characters – a true masterpiece. As I listened to the audiobook I was swept away in a nonintrusive way, quietly touched by the heart of the story, and the overall feel of it.
The novel was a quieter sort. A story that slowly grew on me. It was never overwhelming, but always right there to keep me content and invested int the outcome. I still think about it. About the plot, the execution, and the author’s voice.
All I can say is, I’m happy I ended up giving this book a second chance. It’s a story that deserves all the great reviews it gets. And I finally know what the hub is all about.
4 Stars
Goodreads
Amazon
Where the Crawdads Sing – Delia Owens
My favorite audiobook listen this year. Glad you gave it a second try.
I agree with you!!! I didn’t really expect it to grow on my so much. The story on its own was mesmerizing, beautiful and unique. Loved it all!! Now I can’t wait for the movie….
Beautiful review! I agree with all your points, especially that the novel slowly grows on you. I’m glad that you enjoyed it!
Thank you so much Darina – it really snuck up on me. Didn’t expect it to mean so much to me at the end. Beautiful story, amazing writing, looking forward to a movie. 😀
I must be the last person to read this book! I keep trying to move it up my TBR mountain😢
Lovely review Corina!💜
Thank you Susan, and it took me an ETERNITY to pick it up – it’s never too late…. and my tbr is huge too, I know where you are coming from.
i’ve been wanting to read this for a long time as I KEEP seeing it on bookstagram like all the time! Lovely picture and review 🙂
Thank you Uma!!! I was seeing it on IG too, and heard only amazing things, but I never felt in the mood to pick it up, until one day 😀
It’s never too late …..