Book Review: The Things We Do For Love by Kristin Hannah
As a fan of emotional family sagas, I was immediately drawn to The Things We Do For Love. Kristin Hannah has an incredible way of weaving complex characters into poignant narratives, and I was eager to see how she would explore themes of motherhood, love, and sacrifice in this book. The story centers on Angie DeSaria, a woman who returns to her small Pacific Northwest hometown after a painful divorce and years of struggling to conceive. With the setup promptly laid out, I dove into the book, ready for a heart-wrenching experience.
From the outset, Hannah’s signature style shines through. She expertly delves into Angie’s psyche, revealing layers of emotional depth that resonate with anyone who has experienced loss. Despite the heavy themes, the novel flows with heartfelt dialogue and relatable experiences, making it difficult to put down. One of my favorite aspects echoed a sentiment shared by reader Jewell Campbell: the exploration of family dynamics was rich and presented with authenticity. The characters felt real, with motivations that kept me engaged and invested in their journeys.
The novel’s central relationship between Angie and the troubled young woman, Lauren Ribido, was beautifully crafted. Their bond provides a unique lens through which the complexities of motherhood are dissected. Angie’s act of kindness—offering Lauren a job and a place to stay—highlights not just the magic of nurturing but also the potential consequences of such decisions. I found myself agreeing with K. Caldwell’s experience; Hannah has a way of bringing you deep into the emotional core of her characters, ensuring that even the smallest moments feel significant.
However, The Things We Do for Love is not without its drawbacks. Some moments felt slightly contrived, particularly in how quickly both women established their connection. A critique from another reader mentioned the authenticity of Lauren’s character and how certain aspects felt unrealistic. I could understand where this sentiment stemmed from, as some elements of Lauren’s teenage experience didn’t ring entirely true for me either. Yet, rather than detracting from the overall narrative, it emphasized the larger theme of longing for connection and family.
The pacing, at times, felt a little uneven. While the emotional arcs are well-executed, there are moments that slow down the progression, which may lead some readers, as noted by various reviewers, to feel a bit restless. For a book that’s emotionally charged, starting strong and maintaining that momentum can make all the difference.
Hannah’s writing does tend to be a bit repetitive regarding her descriptions. As K. Caldwell pointed out, phrases like "silvery streets" started to feel overly familiar. Though I can relate to that observation, I found it spoke more to Hannah’s stylistic continuity than to a lack of creativity. Her vivid descriptions, particularly of the Pacific Northwest, made the setting feel alive and integral to the story. The environment became a character in its own right, influencing both Angie and Lauren’s journeys.
Overall, The Things We Do For Love is an emotional rollercoaster that expertly explores love and loss. While there were moments that felt predictable or slightly drawn out, the story’s warmth and heartfelt moments ultimately captivated me. I think of this novel as a beautiful portrayal of the complexities of family relationships and the sacrifices we make for those we care about, particularly when it comes to motherhood—a theme that resonated deeply with me, as I witnessed Angie’s struggle to reconcile her dreams with her reality.
In conclusion, if you enjoy layered family dramas that tug at your heartstrings and provoke reflection, I wholeheartedly recommend The Things We Do For Love. It’s a compelling read that’s sure to leave an impression long after the last page is turned. Whether you relate more to Angie or Lauren, you’ll likely find yourself immersed in their emotional landscape, even if the journey has its bumps along the way. Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Discover the heartfelt journey in The Things We Do for Love. >>