Ohio by Stephen Markley

Review by Heather Ohio is the debut novel by author Stephen Markley. The writing in this novel is rich and detailed. The descriptions are so involved that a very clear picture is formed, but it always feels dark. Like the town is Eeyore under a cloud or it is always night time. New Canaan is a fictional town in Northeastern Ohio that could be any number of small Ohio towns that has seen better days. The book revolves around 4 main characters (Tina, Bill, Dan and Stacey). Tina Ross, the quintessential “preacher’s daughter”; Bill Ashcraft a drug addict and alcoholic activist and anti-war crusader; Dan Eaton is a war veteran; and Stacey Moore a PhD candidate. The book opens with the funeral of Marine Corporal Rick Brinkland, former high school football star, who plays a major role in the book through flashbacks. Everyone is connected not just by the town, but by Lisa Han, whom no one has seen since high school. There are many issues raised in the book that aren’t unique to small town America, but are relatable in their commonness: drugs, sex, war, and murder. The story is compelling albeit depressing. This book isn’t about happy endings or feel good coming of age. This book takes the lives of 20 somethings who reach back into the past to remember their hopes and dreams only to be reminded of what didn’t come to be. I can only recommend Ohio to those that appreciate well told stories and captivating descriptions. Mr. Markley isn’t trying to make the reader feel better and he doesn’t. **ARC provided for honest review**

Release Date: August 21, 2018

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