I don't know if I should send Fredrik Backman the therapy bill or if I ought to thank him for the free therapy. In terms of craft I do think this is a little bit of a step down from the first book, with the writing more unnecessarily repetitive, lacking creativity, and unevenly paced. I also didn't particularly care for Richard Theo's plotline. But by Jove does this sequel hit so much harder emotionally. There were definitely times when the plot felt a little manipulative, but the end result is still heartfelt and strong. Believe what fans have been saying all this time: Fredrik Backman's books are a masterclass in empathy and nowhere is that more evident than in the Beartown trilogy. He displays such an affinity for humanity and an intimate desire to understand the best and the worst that individuals—and the towns they make up—have to offer. This is destined to be one of my favorite trilogies ever.