This is a very quick short story, didn't take me long to read at all. It flows nicely and keeps your attention. The main character is likeable and interesting. The ending is abrupt, leaving you to your own conclusion. I cannot say much about the plot other than what's in the synopsis, so this review will stay short and sweet. Nice short read about opening yourself up and allowing people in. I wish it had been longer, because I'd like more Silvia!

I received a copy of this from Net Galley and Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.

'Salsa' by Mary Gordon is about a the dance, not the condiment. It's also about a wronged daughter and a second chance.

Silvia is eighteen and pretty world-wise. Her father is a salsa dancer and makes tapes, but when Silvia catches him with another woman, she kicks him out and changes the locks. She and her mother have to care for one another, but she meets a man named Will who is so unlike the other men in her life. When Silvia falls ill, she is usually left to tend to herself, but Will steps in. When Will finds out about Silvia's father's birthday, he urges her to attend the party and look for reconciliation.

It's a really short read, but there is a lot happening in this story, and I felt like some of the characters were fleshed out better than some much longer novels I've read. This is good writing, with tight, economical story building, but not lacking in depth.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Vintage, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.

I've never read anything by Mary Gordon. When I saw this short story available on Netgalley, I decided to give it a try. It was good and I would happily read more by Gordon. The story focuses on Sylvia, and focuses on her relationship with her father. The story has a tight and focused narrative arc, saying everything through a few discrete scenes. A worthy quick read for a time when I feel unable to focus for very long. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read a free copy.

A very commendable short story, even if it touches on familiar things – a girl growing to hate her father and what he puts her mother through. The salsa/Hispanic touch is a nice addition, but it's not the only element that is enough to make this worth a mention. A very nice calling card from an author quite unknown to me.