Book Review: The Lace Reader by Brunonia Barry
One thing is for sure. I will read this book again tonight.
I didn’t expect to love this book. I do.
I didn’t expect to believe Towner whole heartily. I did.
I didn’t expect to be so surprised by what unfolds. I was.
I had no idea what kind of book The Lace Reader was when I agreed to attend a book club this month. I actually thought it would be about something that happened so long ago as I think of my grandmother when I think of lace. I mean, seriously, when was the last time you have seen a lace doily? However, I was wrong. Dead wrong. I couldn’t be more thankful for the invitation that brought this book to me.
The Lace Reader is one that changes just when you think you have everything figured out. Again and again. I never once thought what the ending actually was.
I have to say, that I am never a huge fan of a book that does not describe what the main characters look like so that I can picture them throughout the book. However, Barry described the thoughts so convincingly of the characters, that I painted my own picture of them, and only wondered twice if what I was picturing would be what Barry would find acceptable for the characters she created.
The relationship between Towner and Lyndley is a unique one. Towner always thinks she isn’t ever as good as Lyndley. She can’t compete with her beauty and strength. In fact, Towner has a mental problem that has led her to shock treatments and thus memory loss. Her mental health has created a strain between her and several other family members and local townsfolk. There is a mix between strong, independent women and weak, deflated ones. I love how they intertwine. What is Towner’s true relationship with the men in her life, her mother, her father, sister, and aunt? What is she truly like and what really happens in the life of Towner Whitney? You will be pleasantly surprised to find out how Berry takes our heart and has it travel with Towner then Rafferty and back to Towner through the streets of Salem, Massachusetts.
The only problem? I wanted a solid conclusion for Towner and Rafferty. However, what ever does happen and what characters I believe is such an intriguing part of why I love this book. You are left with a glimmer of hope for Towner and that satisfies me. I can’t stop thinking about The Lace Reader!!
I give this a solid 4.5 out of 5 STACKS. It’s an ADULT MUST READ!
Sending STACK love your way, Shannan
I love your review of this, very insightful. I too like to know what a character looks like, helps me complete the book.
Thanks, Bree! Did you read this book? If so, how did you like it?
You have peeked my curiousity, I will have to check it out!