If you've read Parret's Past the Shallows, how does it compare? What other books would you compare to When The Night Comes?

Did you read Parretts earlier novel, Past the Shallows, and if so, did you think her writing style has changed between her first and second books? Are there other books you’d compare to When the Night Comes?

I have not yet read "Past the Shallows" but have added it to my long list of books to read. In a vague sense, the book reminded me of Yoko Ogawa's "The Professor and the Housekeeper" and Frederik Backman's "A Man Called Ove" as they have disparate characters who come together in ways that positively change lives.

I have not read the first book, but I have read a LOT of fiction and I can't think of any book to compare this to. I found it truly original. I did find myself thinking of the imagist poets as I was reading certain passages, especially William Carlos Williams, because of her use of colors, very descriptive images, and the phrasing. Yes, in some spots the writing reminded me of one of my favorite poet's writings!

This book has absolutely captivated me. At first, I didn't like it at all - it felt too disjointed and short-story-like, too poetic - but it really grew on me. The author's ability to draw one stunning scene after another won me over, and I think it's some of the most beautifully descriptive writing I've encountered. As cprimack says, it's a unique work, and I honestly can't think of any others I'd say were similar in theme or style. I haven't read Past the Shallows, but I think I may have to now!