A really lovely collection of stories. Almost every story shines. I really get such warmth from Jess’s writing. There is unexpected human connections, touches of romance and hopeful moments. They are affectionately witty and beautifully poignant. Definitely get warm fuzzy feelings from these….

This was the first book I have read by author Jess Walter, and it won't be my last. I am already eying up Beautiful Ruins and We Live in Water.

Often in short story collections the stories can start to feel repetitive or have very similar themes. Not so with this collection. Each and every story was engaging. I hated to see them end. A few of my favorite stories were Mr. Voice, Town and Country and of course the titular Angel of Rome.

Author Jess Walter creates memorable and engaging characters that move through THE ANGEL OF ROME, a collection of short stories, involving personal explorations of agency and connection. While all the characters differ, in terms of age, location, attitude and even era, they all seek connections with loved ones, real or imagined, and purpose in their lives. The finer details about how they finesse those pursuits make for fascinating tales. I received my copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

I requested this book of short stories because I loved Beautiful Ruins and The Cold Millions. Overall, the collection felt uneven. I really enjoyed the characters in some of them, but others were less enthralling

Mixed feelings about this collection. While I've never encountered a short story collection in which I loved every piece, my opinions range wildly on those included here.

I think Jess Walter is one of the best writers around. "The Angel of Rome" is his latest collection of short stories. I can't think of another author who moves so seamlessly between novels and short stories. Walter's previous collection, "We Live in Water," was named by President Obama as one of his favorite books of the year. "Angel of Rome" is equally brilliant.

While some novelists' short stories feel like b-side throwaways, Walter's stories feature characters painted in fine detail you'd normally only find in a novel. These are funny stories about very interesting characters. "Town and Country," a story about a gay man dealing with his aging father, ends up being a rueful rumination on MAGA-era America.

If you are a fan of fiction, pick this book up. Netgalley provided me with a free ARC in exchange for this review.

Jess Walter is always a favorite. Even tho short stories are not my favorite genre, Jess manages to keep me turning the pages.