This book was 100% a surprise for me! The first 100 pages felt slow but intriguing enough to continue reading. It suddenly ramped up with a great story and exciting drama. I am delighted to have read it all and to be surprised! I was certain it would not be my cup of tea and yet, I loved it! The characters, their motivations and thoughts all came to life in such a realistic way. I would give this one to a friend and say persevere as you will not be disappointed.
As a side note, I really liked the title and the main's character's name.

Norma and the Blue Hour by Chris Delyani was a total surprise—one of those rare books that slowly sneaks up on you and then completely wins you over. I’ll be honest: the first hundred pages felt slow, and I wasn’t entirely sure if it was for me. But something about the writing and the characters kept me going. And I’m so glad I did, because what followed was a rich, beautifully layered story full of heart, humor, and emotional depth.

The book follows Norma and a wide cast of characters whose lives intertwine in both quiet and dramatic ways. Multiple POVs are used to great effect, not just as a storytelling device, but as a way to reframe our understanding of Norma herself. Each perspective adds something vital, showing how people are shaped not only by their actions but also by how others see them. The narrative becomes a kind of kaleidoscope, constantly shifting and deepening.

Once the plot hits its stride, the story ramps up in a way that feels organic but still exciting. The emotional payoff is absolutely worth the slow burn of the beginning. Delyani’s strength lies in his ability to write people, their flaws, hopes, quiet fears, with realism and tenderness. By the time I reached the final chapters, I found myself fully invested in the lives of these characters.

What I also loved was how the novel captures the nuance of everyday relationships, friendships, missed connections, the ache of growing older and wondering what still lies ahead. The “blue hour” metaphor resonates deeply, capturing that in-between time when the world feels a little softer, more open, more uncertain. The book touches on themes of personal reinvention, the power of chosen family, and the quiet persistence of hope.

For readers who like:
-Literary fiction with strong character development
-Multi-POV narratives
-Subtle humor

Final Verdict
Norma and the Blue Hour is a slow-burning, quietly powerful novel that ultimately delivers a rewarding emotional experience. It’s about life’s quiet pivots, the bonds we form, and the messy beauty of becoming who we are. If you’re patient with the pacing, you’ll find yourself swept up in a rich, human story that lingers long after the final page. Give this one to a friend and tell them to stick with it.

Grateful to NetGalley, Solid Oaktown Books and Chris DelyanI For the opportunity to read an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.