44. Tara Road by Maeve Binchy
Theme/Topic: book from Oprah's Book Club
Synopsis:
New York Times bestselling author Maeve Binchy has captured the hearts of millions with her unforgettable novels. Binchy's graceful storytelling and wise compassion have earned her the devotion of fans worldwide--and made her one of the most beloved authors of our time. Now she dazzles us once again with a new novel filled with her signature warmth, humor, and tender insight. A provocative tale of family heartbreak, friendship, and revelation,Tara Road explores every woman's fantasy: escape, into another place, another life. "What if..." Binchy asks, and answers in her most astonishing novel to date.
My Review:
This was the first book I read by Maeve Binchy and she has an eloquent writing style. Most of this book took place on Tara Road (hence the title) and the people who live there or nearby. In particular, Danny and Ria's house was featured the most because they had people over all the time, some even without invites. Whether it was for talking gossip, business or just spending quality time with friends, there was always something going on. When Danny admits he has been having an affair and they get divorced, Ria still maintains that social life except the ones over for business. Of course, then it becomes all girl talk with the support of family and friends. As the story goes on, you learn that Ria's so called friends aren't always what they seem, well a couple of them at least. Everyone you read about are an eclectic and diverse group of people. I had a love-hate relationship with all of them. I can't imagine the boom without even one of them, though.
Ria can't accept that Danny's leaving her for someone else and has had that affair for quite awhile. We, the readers, can figure that out before he brings it up and all along, Ria thought she was living a perfect marriage, despite all the signs being there. Marilyn, in New York, has been having a tough time coming to terms s with her son's death and separation from her husband. By chance, she just happens to have Danny's number and wants to exchange houses for two months. Ria agrees to the deal and before you know it, everything set up. Danny and Marilyn's husband are reluctant for them to do it, but realize that they're going to do it regardless. They each want the opportunity to get away from it all and their respective places. Both of them are very similar, except that Ria is social able and Marilyn is more drawn to herself. They have no idea that they're going somewhere opposite from what they're used to. For two months, they go on a journey of acceptance, growth, friendship, and so much more. Isn't it funny how escaping to another place makes it easier to come to terms with any situation you may be going through? Sometimes all we need is a break from reality to heal in what may be a sad or stressful (or anything really) time in our lives.
This was an enjoyable read. I do have to admit that it took me a little while to get into it. It's a powerful book about overcoming hard times and the power of friendship.
Happy Reading and Keep on Writing!
♥Meg♥
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