This book, based on some of Claire Messud’s family history is ambitious in scope both in terms of timespan and geography. It is beautifully written. If you are a fan of subtlety and nuance this book is for you. We follow members of the Cassar family as they cope with what history and fate has dealt them.

While this is a beautiful novel, it is important for the reader to understand that it is not your standard page turner. Messud takes time to tell her story. It is not an easy read. People lives are changed by their decisions but also by history. I often felt as restless as some of the characters. This is a sign of how powerful Messud’s writing is. If you feel elated by stories that are beautifully and artfully told, you’ll be rewarded. If you’re expecting a conventional happy ending, this may not be for you.