As always, Kingsolver creates convincing and deeply moving characters and plot. From the opening pages, I found myself totally absorbed by the tragedy that underpins this world and transfixed by the way that Kingsolver exposes the many manifestations of grief at the different stages of our lives. It may not earn the accolades of Poisonwood or Demon Copperhead, but for me this is her finest work.

my favourite read of 2026, thats for sure. I have a mixed relationship with the author - having still not been able to finish Poisonwood Bible, yet adored Demon Copperhead. But I think this tops Demon. It is shorter and doesn't have the midway lull that I thought Demon had.
Livia is a supremely talented pianist at university. But her life is derailed by a chance meeting with, of course, an impossibly handsome man.

Told in present day, and through the past lense we start to build the picture of a life lived in parts, the highs, the lows - just like the music score, the partita.

I was immersed in the world of music despite really having limited knowledge - it didn't matter. I loved Livia, and the supporting characters. I really loved how the conclusion was drawn, and I savoured the ending. I saved the last chapter to read rather than racing through, which is rare. A superb read.

What a comforting and rewarding novel this is!

The author takes you on a ride with a young woman growing up, spreading her wings, experiencing loss and then living with the ensuing pain.

The writing is fluid and expressive, the characters are well defined and easy to relate to. This is a book to make you cry and then feel at peace with it all.

This is the next book for you if you love listening to music and enjoy a very emotional read. Highly recommended!

Another fantastic book from Barbara Kingsolver - right up there with Demon Copperhead in the way that it draws you in to the characters and their lives. The depth of detail makes you feel as if you are in the room with Livia as she navigates loss. Absolutely riveting, I couldn't put it down. With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC in return for an honest review.

A beautifully written and poignant story about pianist Livia Bohurz. We follow her life, love, hopes and regrets. Music is an integral part of the story - almost a character in itself. This is not a book for a fast-paced read but is a poetic, reflective experience that stayed with me long after the final page.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review