This book was a "slow burn"- I loved the complexity of the voice. Owen is a struggling, aspiring writer but "stuck" in poverty. He takes a groundskeeping job at a fictional college in Kentucky where was born. He meets Alma, a published author who has a "visiting writer" position at the college. They fall in love but struggle with "class differences" and overwhelming bouts of insecurity about their futures and prospects.
This book was timely for me as I had a teaching job with a college in Kentucky (remotely) but knew very little about the state. This book gave me a glimpse into the diverse culture and history of the state.
If you liked Normal People, you will like this book!