n February, the QAB Monthly Book Club discussed
The House on Fortune Street
by Margot Livesey and what a lovely surprise this novel turned out to
be! Neither the cover art nor the jacket description do justice to this
fascinating look at the friendship of two women.
In discussing her novel (as seen on her website), Livesey remarked
she has noticed that secrets are rarely revealed all at once, but
instead in fragments over time. That is why she chose to write about
the friendship of Dara and Abigail from the viewpoint of four different
characters: Sean, Abigail’s boyfriend; Cameron, Dara’s father; Dara,
and finally Abigail. But rather than telling the same story four
different ways, each of these characters enlighten and bring their own
perspective to the story. Another way Livesey enlightens her readers is
by giving each of the characters a ‘literary godparent’. For
booklovers, this is just icing on an already remarkably rich cake. Not
everyone in your group will love this book, but I guarantee a terrific
discussion!. ~Patti