I think this was a Kindle Daily Deal, since an earlier book of Reed's was on Amazon's list of best books of 2011. This was unlike anything I've read for a while; it's not a mystery, not SF or fantasy. It might even fall into that questionable category of "literary fiction."The story starts with a life-changing scene from 20 or 30 years ago, then jumps to the present day family dynamics that formed, in large part, as a result of that one day. This is one of the most craftfully plotted and told stories I've read in quite a long time. Despite myself (since I was on a mystery-reading roll) I was quickly pulled into the story of mothers and daughters and sisters and found myself just as unsure of how I wanted the book to end as the characters seemed to be. I've already bought a Kindle copy of one of Reed's earlier novels, Carry Yourself Back to Me, and am looking forward to exploring that story as well. This novel was simple yet complex in the very best ways. The characters were deeply relatable and the ways in which they related to each other was a painful reminder of how fractured families can become. The entire novel revolves around the rippling, lasting effects that a single decision can make. Artfully written and a really great study of character. I wouldn't call it a fun read, because I found it very painful at times, but it was certainly a worthwhile read.
What do You think about Things We Set On Fire (2013)?
Enjoyed the writing, a little dark but interesting subject and good character development
—Deevo
Totally enjoyed - a good summer read, some good lines to highlight....
—sze0521
Took quite a few pages to get interesting. Got better toward the end.
—DJxD
Heartbreaking and uplifting! Fast read. Loved it!
—Jussi
