Synopsis in a Sentence: A woman (Helen Ames) tries to move on with her life after the death of her husband.
My Thoughts: While reading this novel, I kept thinking of how poignant the story line is and how intimate the "voice" feels. You really feel as if you are friends with the main character, Helen. I really loved the premise of this book...starting over after a heartbreak. We've all been there...whether that heartbreak results from loss of a job, death of a loved one, the end of a relationship. The honest truth is that it sometimes is very hard to remember who you are without that person or thing, and it's incredibly hard to pick up the pieces.
This slim novel definitely brings this scenario of starting over again to life. Helen Ames is trying to figure out who she is and where to go now after the death of her beloved husband. She is a writer who is currently suffering from writer's block and has a complicated relationship with her daughter, Tessa, on top of everything else.
You find yourself cheering for Helen as she gains confidence and learns from her mistakes. I would definitely recommend this quiet and subtle novel to anyone who wonders "where do I go from here?" when they find themselves in a transition spot in life.
What I liked most: The relationship that Helen has with her daughter mirrors what many mothers and daughters go through together in real life. The truth and honesty of their relationship is touching and endearing. Also, Berg's writing style is simple, clear, and charming.
What I liked least: The storyline had a tendency to become a little repetitive and there is not a lot of action or drama in this book. At points, I wished for a little more "spice" but there was definitely still beauty and truth in the quietness of it. I'm sure I will read more from Elizabeth Berg in the future!
Thanks for sharing, Rebecca! I love Berg....
ReplyDeleteSounds like a good one. I really like Berg's books!
ReplyDeleteMaybe I should check this out .. I am always asking Where do I go from here? or What am I suppose to do?
ReplyDeleteYou brought out some interesting points in this review. I have this book on my shelf, unread. I contemplated giving it to a friend but when I discovered it was about a woman recently widowed, I decided not since she is a recent widow too. What are your thoughts on the appropriateness of this book in this circumstance?
ReplyDeleteI read this book quite a while ago. Elizabeth Berg is one my favorite authors. You're right there isn't any spice, now that I think about it none of her books have any! LOL She does a wonerful job pulling at your heart strings though.
ReplyDeleteNice review. I won't enter the giveway because I already have the book ,but I couldn't resist leaving a comment :-)
I love Elizabeth Berg, but this was not one of my favorites.
ReplyDeleteI've just started reading Berg ("We Are All Welcome Here") was my first Berg title, and I do love the emotions that her writing seems to evoke. Thanks for the review!
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