In her eighth novel, Ann Patchett explores familiar themes from her previous works, such as family dynamics post-divorce, sibling bonds, and the journey of forgiveness. Set in the extravagant “Dutch house” in a wealthy Philadelphia suburb, the story revolves around Cyril Conroy’s failed marriages and his children, Danny and Maeve. The narrative follows the intricate relationships within the family as they confront the past and contemplate their future while parked outside their former home.
The house symbolizes the tangled emotions and memories for the Conroy siblings, especially Danny, who holds a deep admiration for his sister Maeve. Their bond strengthens over the years, surpassing any other love in Danny’s life. While Maeve’s affection is mainly reserved for their absent mother, Elna, Danny struggles to reconcile his feelings of abandonment by her.
Throughout the novel, various characters, including former household employees, praise Elna as a saintly figure, a stark contrast to Danny’s disillusionment. The narrative unfolds with poignant moments, such as Andrea, Cyril’s second wife, mistaking Danny for her deceased husband in a powerful scene that highlights the complexities of relationships within the family.
As the story progresses, Elna’s unexpected return to the Dutch house brings a newfound connection between the characters, especially Maeve and their estranged mother. Danny, torn between his past resentments and present circumstances, navigates the evolving dynamics within the family, ultimately realizing the significance of his sister’s presence in his life.
The novel delves into themes of love, loss, and longing, emphasizing the profound impact of familial relationships on one’s identity and sense of belonging. Patchett weaves a tale of reconciliation and acceptance, portraying the enduring power of memories and the ghosts of the past that linger in the present, shaping the characters’ lives.
