WOW! I cannot believe that I had the opportunity to read and review this beautiful, powerful, novel before anyone else. I am going to predict that it will be one of the best books of 2023. This novel tells the story of 4 people. Ward Manning is a literary lion, hailed as a genius, his daughter Isabelle, his wife Claire and Brian, Isabelle’s friend.

The catalyst is the death of Claire, wife and much beloved mother. The novel unfolds as Isabelle, Ward and Brian cope with the changes that follow Claire’s death. It is the strange legacy that Claire has left for Isabelle that drives this story.

I was extremely sympathetic to Isabelle, and her struggle to become a published writer. She has spent years feeling like a failure, especially compared to her father. But, after Claire dies, secrets are veiled and relationships are recalibrated. There is a novel within this novel, which is skillfully blended into the story.

This is really well written and totally engaging. Honestly, I couldn’t put it down. Abramson has created quite a novel and I highly recommend it.

Thank you Netgalley for this thoroughly enjoyable ARC.