I always like Heiny’s books because they are filled with people I feel like I’d actually know in my own life, teachers, woodworkers, mandolin players, and not the soccer moms and endless lawyers that populate so many other books. Early Morning Riser did not disappoint!

I really felt like I lived in this town and knew these people. I like how she can write about sad subjects without being treacly or maudlin and when things happen like coming together to help Jimmy it actually seems realistic.

I also enjoyed the descriptions of running into every one of her partner’s many exes. Waitresses, sisters, shop clerks. Everyone had dated Duncan!

I guess it could run a little too into the quirky for some people but I think it works. A sweet little novel in the best way.