Well written and heartbreaking.

This novel ended with a line that I will not reveal here but suffice to say, I needed this book. They say people either love shoefly pie or they can’t stand it. I think it’s the same with this author. If you engage with her writing style it’s like a conversation. If you aren’t intrigued - just put it down and give it to someone else. I read All Things Are Possible on a plane ride and needed more so I bought this and picked up the narrative where we left off. This writer opens psychological space for me. Real, honest and raw without being graphic or cheap. I also recommend reading the Olive books first. You can read the books out of order but I’m glad I did not.

Comma rich. Colon dense. Bold semi-colons. But bravely starting unpunctuated sentences with “But.” A wheelbarrow of internal starts and stops perfectly captures the struggle to narrate our own experience.

Another sad saga but written by a great story teller. Thanks

A terribly overrated book. That’s just what it is.

Not sure what all the other reviewers are raving about. I found it a rambling, overly sentimental and depressing story about dysfunctional relationships. Maybe this appeals to some who can identify well with the self absorbed narrator or the pitiful protagonist. The chatty writing style may also find favor with some, but I found it flippant and off-putting. Expected a lot more from a Pulitzer winner and not deserving of a Booker long list.

I liked the familiar characters and that Lucy now has more wisdom

Yet another wonderful book. Read it in one sitting, and highly moved. Worth your time.

I wish Lucy Barton was my best friend

Daar Lucy Barton, I missed you so much. I’m glad you took over the author so you could talk about love some more. You just muddle your way home like we all do. I like the elephants too. Liz