Appraisals: A Novel
by Claire Boyles
Appraisals (7/3/2026)
Appraisals by Claire Boyles is a novel set in the farmlands of Colorado from 2008 to 2010. It is written from the perspectives of Flora (a 90 year old grandmother and great-grandmother), Maggie (an organic farmer), and Fish (her husband who chooses a different path).
I love a story about strong women and this did not disappoint with three generations of compelling characters with believable interactions in the various times of their lives. Teenage daughter Ozzie's rebellion and disagreements with her parents were authentic. I found myself rooting for them despite their flaws. Their passion for the environment, the struggles for water rights, the issues of land development by the wealthy, and large corporations were all themes that resonated. The political conflicts in a small town rang true while Fish struggled with conflicted loyalties.
The story was beautifully written and flowed seamlessly. I especially enjoyed the passages describing the hard work involved in being an organic farmer and the vivid descriptions of the river wildlife and the produce displayed at the farmers market. At times, I could picture myself sitting on the front porch of the farmhouse enjoying the company of these characters.
This atmospheric book was a joy to read.
