The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

As you’ll know by now I just can’t resist a beautiful book cover, throw in some sprayed edges and well I’m sold. Despite having not read any of her other books (I know, I know), The Dutch House by Ann Patchett was a book that I just had a feeling I was going to love!

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The Dutch House is home to Danny and his older sister Maeve. Abandoned by their mum, the siblings grow up with their dad in this grand mansion. When their dad introduces them to a woman named Andrea whom he goes on to marry, Danny and Maeve have no idea the devastating effect this woman will have on their lives.

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Following the death of their dad, Andrea forces Danny and Maeve out of their home, and the once wealthy pair lose everything. The siblings are repeatedly drawn back to their childhood home, from a distance they reflect and try to unravel the mysteries of their past to try and make sense of the present. 📖

The Dutch House definitely lived up to its hype for me. It is such a beautifully written book, and a deeply moving story of love, betrayal, obsession, family ties and forgiveness. Narrated by Danny and spanning five decades, the story weaves with ease through various timelines and draws you in. I found it to be an almost hypnotic read, the descriptions of the house and the people are so rich and vivid I could easily envisage it all.

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While I thought the ending was brilliant, I was so sad to turn the last page, I just never wanted it to end. Since finishing this book, several people have told me about the audio version which is narrated by Tom Hanks. I haven’t really got into audio books but I feel like this is one that I’ll have to listen to.

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Needless to say, it’s one I’d definitely recommend, it’s the perfect autumnal read. I loved Ann Patchett’s writing and storytelling so much that I’ll now need to go and read her other books so if you have one that you particularly loved please recommend away.

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What are you reading and loving at the moment?