Review of My Uncle Owes Me a Favor

Nzube Chizoba Okeke · Post by **Nzube Chizoba Okeke** » 15 Mar 2022, 13:19

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "My Uncle Owes Me a Favor" by Morrigan Milligan.]

3 out of 4 stars

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There is no better title for this novel than My Uncle Owes Me a Favor because that's what it's literally about. This is not your typical type of romance. It's a family-oriented romance on a backdrop of Italian culture, and Morrigan Milligan pulls it off nicely.

Set in the 60s, Maggie Blake found herself trying to break the mold usually used to shape women of her heritage amidst undergoing the impulses of young love. She helped out in a family situation, which made her acquire a "favor," a term that carried high value for her. She had to handle her solo achievements and grief of losing loved ones, which drew her into a family drama involving patriarchal disposition, hidden secrets, and unyielding tradition. When unexpected feelings bloomed from an unlikely place, she was torn between making life-changing decisions with no clear path in sight. How did she handle her predicament, and what was the aftermath of her choices?

My Uncle Owes Me a Favor grew on me as I read on. Although the beginning was bland, Morrigan Milligan ardently accentuated the Italian background, which helped establish a concrete foundation. The whole "favor" concept showed the family dynamic and one of the ways the Italian mafia worked. Keeping track of the names turned out to be a bother but was understandable because of how large such families could get. The arbitrary need for suspense was almost non-existent because the plot was clear-cut and entirely predictable. Although some would find comfort in familiarity, I would prefer a romance story with a bit of a nail-biter. I commend the accuracy of the portrayal of Italian tradition and the geographical locations used. The family scuffles were a hearty respite and the highlights of the novel. The snippet of food used to break scenes was aesthetically appealing, made me hungry, and was enhanced by the avid descriptions.

This novel could use a much-needed re-editing. The seemingly mundane errors made for an unenjoyable read. The overall plot could be fleshed out more because it lacked the cathartic effect typical of a good romance story.
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I'd give My Uncle Owes Me a Favor 3 out of 4 stars because the writing style was fluid, and there was this nostalgic craving for family that I got as I delved into it. A lower rating would have been too harsh. I'd recommend My Uncle Owes Me a Favor to lovers of family-driven books. Romance readers would find it quite okay, though the portrayal of different sexual orientations and lifestyles might irk some folks.

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My Uncle Owes Me a Favor
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Aisha Yakub · Post by **Aisha Yakub** » 22 Mar 2022, 07:12

Sounds like a great read. Hopefully, it receives another round of editing. Thank you for the review.

Sharon Christanto · Post by **Sharon Christanto** » 22 Mar 2022, 10:59

It seems like an interesting read. It has an unusual background (I rarely read romance novels set in Italian culture). I can get the romantic atmosphere, while at the same time learning about Italian culture. Thanks for the amazing review!

TheGayOne12 · Post by **TheGayOne12** » 22 Mar 2022, 11:13

Since I love anything and everything Italian, I just know I'll love this. Thank you for the review!

Patty Allread · Post by **Patty Allread** » 22 Mar 2022, 14:17

The idea of a big, Italian Mafia family can be a cliche, but it sounds like the author was able to make this one authentic. Good review!

Yasmine ZM · Post by **Yasmine ZM** » 23 Mar 2022, 05:00

Thank you for the review, sounds like a good read. The Italian culture background makes it more appealing

IgnatiusChima · Post by **IgnatiusChima** » 24 Mar 2022, 16:59

I love Italian mafia books. I'll check this one out.

Oliver Kalowela · Post by **Oliver Kalowela** » 25 Mar 2022, 04:46

What captivated my interest to read the review was the Title of the Book. I am a proponent of family values through appreciation whenever there is a need. Giving an Italian cultural feel kept me more curious especially where Maggie Blake attempts to shape the heritage. Thank you for the review I will surely have time to read.