I have always found the cover of this book incredibly striking, and I think that’s what lured me into reading this. Patchett’s descriptions as always are perfect yet not too sharp, and her family stories are always intriguing enough to keep you reading yet realistic enough to keep you grounded in the story. I wanted to learn more about the Conroy family history along with Danny, and in that way it pushed me to continue reading to the end.

Unfortunately, I found the rest of the book didn’t quite live up to expectations. I honestly didn’t like any of the characters, with the exception of occasionally Maeve, and I found the plot itself to be one I’m not particularly interested in. I’m not going to spoil it, but I will say that if the back cover synopsis covered the narrator’s journey, I don’t think I would have picked this one up. I was honestly hoping for something more unique, and it didn’t feel like that’s what the reader is given here.

I can see why many are fans of Patchett’s writing – I know I would be. I think I just haven’t found the right one to convert me yet, as The Dutch House sadly wasn’t it.