Almost a waste of time
This is my first Scott Spencer book. I picked it up in an airport bookstore so I didn't have an opportunity to read reviews for the book and then I was stuck with no other options. Boy, what a disappointing book. I didn't care about any of the characters and was almost offended by the stereotyping of Hampton, the African-American husband of Iris. He is presented as an uptight, overly-demanding prig. Nothing about his achievements as a highly successful man is presented in a positive light. We also never see any inner conflict in Daniel as he seems so easily to decide to leave Ruby, his partner's daughter, yet the entire first part of the book develops their relationship, showing Daniel's deep love for the little girl he considers to be his daughter. How Daniel's leaving affects Ruby is never shown. Their relationship is just dropped. The strange incident that leads to Hampton's injury is drawn-out and detailed, but not believable in any way. But the most glaring weakness in the book are the numerous loose ends. Most of the subplots just vanish. Characters, plot events are introduced and then dropped, leaving the reader to ask "Why?" I cannot understand how this book became a finalist for the National Book Award.
Desire does have costs (4.25 *s)
Having encountered a personal assault in NYC, Daniel Emerson returns to his hometown of Leyden in upper state New York with longtime girlfriend Kate and her young daughter Ruby to begin an idyllic life with him as a small town lawyer and her as a putative novelist but more practically a freelance journalist. But domestic serenity unravels when Daniel becomes fixated with Iris Davenport a married woman and perpetual grad student at nearby Marlowe College who he meets when taking Ruby to daycare and who happens to be black.
The book is a very absorbing examination of the consequences of desire. Beyond exhilaration there are the lies, rationalizations, and appearances that must be maintained, but with the ever increasing likelihood of causing pain, chaos, and even ruination. The cheated-on spouses are hardly undesirable, yet as the author says, there can be no turning back for Iris and Daniel.
The author keeps the story moving and has a flair for the well turned phrase. There are some racial overtones but ultimately are irrelevant. There are no resounding conclusions, but is simply a sensitive view of infidelity.
Amazing Lesson
I felt a surge of energy reading this book. It was delightfully insightful into the true nature of humans. The main character falls through many holes trying to fulfill his desire and love for a married woman. Even though he already has a commitment, he dives into the relationship at full speed. This book teaches about the many imperfections of love, consequences be damned.
Kate
The only reason why this book sneaks by with three stars is the character of Kate. She is racist in a very complex way, also a mother and lover with the same complex dimensions. Her character helps explain a lot in modern day society, why some people are still racist, in a less overt way. Just about every other character seems to be one dimensional, at best. So, though this book is far from perfect, you should still read it.
Obsession or True Love???
I read this book about a year ago and recommended it to a few friends. This still sparks discussion amongst us even today. The debate mostly centers around Daniel's obsession or love for Iris. You be the judge! I found the author's use of setting and mood to match perfectly. Spencer does an excellent job of painting word pictures and weaving plotlines together smoothly. I finished this book quickly based more on the intrigue of the novel than length. If you're looking for a book club book for the new season pick this one up!
(62 reviews)
