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hughdunnett 's review for:
The Dutch House
by Ann Patchett
I had real difficulty with this review as the adjective I wanted to use about every element of this book is ‘perfect’.
Anne Patchett is an author that I have been very much aware of but without having ever read. Praise and awards appear to be synonymous with this author and I now understand why; from almost the very first chapter I was certain I was going to love this novel.
The story is a relatively simple one, defining family and home through the experiences of a small number of characters in few locations over a period of around forty years. And although there are a number of emotionally affecting portions throughout there is no emotional manipulation or overly dramatic plot twist included for its own sake. Ostensibly it is a novel about changed times and lost opportunities but more importantly it speaks of family and connections and the sometimes unlikely and unplanned for and indeed unwished-for ties that bind.
This is a beautifully written book that is literary in the truest sense; it makes the reader aware that the prose is something special and of value but while still caring about the story contained and the way that it is told. And with such wonderful and precise detailing that enhances the story rather than boring the reader, we believe we know the locations in this book and have no option but to genuinely care for the characters and their changing circumstances.
Patchett’s pacing is also exquisite; the story is revealed at a perfect pace that allows us to fully get to know the characters but without feeling that we have outstayed our welcome, whilst simultaneously not allowing the reader to ever want to set down the book nor ever want to reach the end. Perfect.
[NetGalley and Bloomsbury were kind enough to supply my copy but i would happily have paid for it.]
Anne Patchett is an author that I have been very much aware of but without having ever read. Praise and awards appear to be synonymous with this author and I now understand why; from almost the very first chapter I was certain I was going to love this novel.
The story is a relatively simple one, defining family and home through the experiences of a small number of characters in few locations over a period of around forty years. And although there are a number of emotionally affecting portions throughout there is no emotional manipulation or overly dramatic plot twist included for its own sake. Ostensibly it is a novel about changed times and lost opportunities but more importantly it speaks of family and connections and the sometimes unlikely and unplanned for and indeed unwished-for ties that bind.
This is a beautifully written book that is literary in the truest sense; it makes the reader aware that the prose is something special and of value but while still caring about the story contained and the way that it is told. And with such wonderful and precise detailing that enhances the story rather than boring the reader, we believe we know the locations in this book and have no option but to genuinely care for the characters and their changing circumstances.
Patchett’s pacing is also exquisite; the story is revealed at a perfect pace that allows us to fully get to know the characters but without feeling that we have outstayed our welcome, whilst simultaneously not allowing the reader to ever want to set down the book nor ever want to reach the end. Perfect.
[NetGalley and Bloomsbury were kind enough to supply my copy but i would happily have paid for it.]