Henry, Lee, Kip and Ronnie grew up together in rural Wisconsin, but their lives have since taken different paths. Henry stayed home and married his first love, whilst the others left in search of something more. Ronnie became a rodeo star, Kip made his fortune in the city, and musician Lee found fame - but heartbreak, too. Now all four are reunited for a wedding, but amid happiness and celebration, old rivalries resurface and a wife's secret threatens to tear both a marriage and a friendship apart . . .
This is a novel about the things that matter - love and loyalty, the power of music and the beauty of nature - told in a uniquely beautiful, warm-hearted and profound way.
Reviewed by Woden
A beautifully written book, Shotgun Love Songs, is about relationships. The ones that stand the test of time, and the ones that dont. With rural Wisconsin as its backdrop, the personal stories of four now 30 something mates, Henry, Lee, Kip and Ronny and their former schoolfriend, Beth, are told with warmth and humour. You feel you know these characters. You would enjoy a coffee or a beer or head in the other direction if you ever ran into them. Maybe they are the schoolmates we have all left too far behind.The author, Nickolas Butler, demonstrates superb understanding of human nature and the dynamics that are so often generated. The vagaries of rural life being a rock star and communities struggling to survive are brought to life, too. Butlers insight is not surprising. He came to writing with rich life experiences.Above all else, what appeals about Shotgun Love Songs, is its authenticity. Butler certainly is a glorious new voice in American fiction.
QBD, 01/09/2014
