Friday, June 15, 2007

59. Consequences


By Penelope Lively
Rated: ★★★★

This story begins in the 1930s as Lorna and Matt meet on a park bench in London. They soon fall in love and over her families objections they marry, and move into a rural English cottage, where daughter Molly is born.

Matt, who does wood engraving is just beginning to become know when he is called up in WW2. When Matt dies in battle the shattered Lorna moves back to London to live with Lucas, Matt's business partner and friend. When subsequent loss occurs, the narrative shifts to Molly, now a smart, independent young woman looking out for her younger brother and stepfather while making her way in the working world. Later, as Molly negotiates midlife, the narrative shifts again, settling on Molly's daughter, Ruth, a journalist who is married with two children and yet yearns for happiness.

I really loved this story. All the characters were likable people that I wished well. Sadly, real life doesn't always work out that way but in the end this story comes full circle. Sort of.