The Malagarde family
is cerebrating their father Paul’s, seventieth birthday and the
parents fortieth wedding anniversary. The reunion at the mother
Lauren’s request is limited to family members only. Both Linden,
the son, and Tailia, the daughter, have significant others, but this
is to be only for the family that grew up together.
Lauren has planned a
series of activities, but the rain is pouring down threatening
disaster for the city of Paris. The deluge curtails many of these
sightseeing and dining trips throwing the family on their own
resources. Each member has secrets and stories to tell. Just as the
rain threatens Paris, the secrets threaten the family unity. Watching
both Paris and the family deal with the unexpected and struggle to
survive is wrenching and heart warming.
Linden is the
narrator. Torn between French and American culture, he has never felt
at home in either society. Although he has become an international
success as a photographer, he wonders if he will ever win his
father’s regard. Linden is a troubled character, but dealing with
his issues makes for intense reading.
The descriptions of
Paris in the rain are very atmospheric giving exactly the right tone
to the family’s struggle as well as that of the city of Paris. The
book has a leisurely feel. The author spends the early part of the
book recounting the family background. It’s interesting and good
preparation for the rest of the story, but it does take some
perseverance to get to the present situation.
I enjoyed the book
and recommend it if you enjoy a well written family drama
.
I received this book
from Net Galley for this review.
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