Paper Castles by B. Fox is a hopeful tragedy.

On the one hand, it offers a bleak realism of people who long for more and dream bigger dreams, but find themselves failing under the weight of unforgiving societal ills and the expectations of others.

On the other hand, it doesn’t leave the reader in despair. Glimmers of light shine in the darkness, even if they’re not always easy to see. There is tragedy and there is hope.

The book is hard to put down. The two main characters are relatable and sympathetic. You can’t help but root for them even when the world seems against them.

4.5/5 stars, an example of indie publishing at its best.