I received a free copy of Spare Change to write an honest review but was not financially compensated for this post. All opinions are my own.
Winner of five literary awards and an Amazon 1 Bestseller, Bette Lee Crosby’s Spare Change is truly remarkable. It’s not just successful, but it genuinely lives up to the hype.
This historical literary fiction with a southern twist is a heartwarming story that stays with you long after you finish reading. Despite the dark and tragic moments, the novel leaves you feeling hopeful and uplifted.
THE STORY
Spare Change follows Olivia Ann Westerly and young Ethan Allen Doyle. Olivia, a strong-willed woman in her 50s, chose an independent life over traditional roles. Her decision to remain unmarried appalled her father, who disowned her at 25. Olivia pursued a career and was famously superstitious, with an irrational fear of the number eleven.
Everything changes for Olivia when, at 58, she meets Charlie Doyle in the 1950s and falls deeply in love. Ignoring her fears of marriage, she agrees to wed him, only to have Charlie die during their honeymoon, leaving her devastated.
On the other side, Ethan Allen is an eleven-year-old boy with a tough past. After witnessing a murder, he runs away to find his grandfather, Charlie Doyle, with danger on his heels. Instead, he finds Olivia, who reluctantly takes him in. The story then focuses on the evolving relationship between this troubled boy and Olivia, who never wanted children and fears the number eleven. Together, they must learn to trust each other as danger looms ever closer. Will they overcome their tragic circumstances?
REVIEW
I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end. Despite its tragic elements, it’s an engrossing read that’s hard to put down. The characters, especially Olivia and Ethan Allen, draw you in, making you eager to see what happens next.
Initially, the narrative style caught me off guard, but after a few chapters, I was captivated by Crosby’s unique approach. The story frequently shifts narrative perspectives, allowing insight into even the most unlikable characters. Crosby portrays her characters with empathy, presenting their flaws in a way that makes them human.
The story includes some coarse language, reflecting the authenticity of the characters. What sets Spare Change apart is Crosby’s talent for creating memorable, distinct voices. Each character feels real, and by the end, I felt like I knew them personally.
Overall, I found this book fantastic and recommend it without reservation. Bette Lee Crosby’s mastery of language transports you to the 1950s South. The novel brims with heart, humor, tragedy, and suspense, making it unforgettable.
ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATION:
Spare Change would be perfect as a movie. With its strong narrative, unique characters, murder, and suspense, it has all the elements for a great film. It could also work as a TV movie if done well, though it might risk becoming clichéd if not handled correctly. In the ’90s, it would have been ideal for a Susan Sarandon and Elijah Wood pairing. The story already feels cinematic, and with the right casting, it could be a memorable film. I imagine someone like Ty Simpkins in the young Elijah Wood role, and I would eagerly pay to see it on opening night.
Content Note: The book includes strong language and violent situations.
