(Reviewed by JD Jung)
“The lovesick, the betrayed, and the jealous all smell alike.” -Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette
Internist, Dr. Robert Hart was named Sag Harbor Citizen of the Year. Everyone seems to be jealous of him and his charismatic wife, Elizabeth. But do they really know them?
Robert’s son, Jonah comes back from college, and brings home his friend, twenty-year-old Nick Carpenter. When Elizabeth invites Nick to stay in their guesthouse, Robert’s imagination runs amuck and paranoia takes over his life.
It’s not just about Robert though. Some chapters are in the perspective of other characters and the neurosis of Elizabeth, Jonah, friends and co-workers take a central part. Yes, there are a lot of characters, but they all play a significant role in the story. We also learn about their pasts, family and relationships and how these factors shape who they are today. This is even true with Elizabeth’s fascination with the writings of Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette.
So, you want to know more about the story? I don’t want to say too much in fear that I’ll spoil it for you. Let’s just say that there’s a tragic death along with surprises at every turn. All of this will keep you engrossed until the end. I wasn’t emotionally invested in any of the characters, but surprisingly that didn’t make a difference.
Even though the book hinges on these surprises as well as the introspection and insecurities of the characters, I didn’t understand the motivations of many of them. The intentions are spelled out in black and white, but were just not convincing to me. I realize that life can be messy and often doesn’t make sense, but I was still disappointed in the ending.
That said, the journey was worth my time and quite enjoyable. So, whether you buy into, accept or love the ending or not, I think fans of literary fiction will enjoy this one.
