Dutch House
Dutch House by Ann Patchett, published by Harper in 2019, presents a narrative that unfolds in the aftermath of the Second World War. The story follows Cyril Conroy, who, through a fortunate investment, builds a vast real estate empire, beginning with the purchase of the Dutch House, a grand estate meant as a gift for his wife. This decision sets off a chain of events that profoundly impacts his family, particularly his son Danny and daughter Maeve, who find themselves exiled from their childhood home by their stepmother.
As the narrative progresses over five decades, readers will discover the complexities of Danny and Maeve’s relationship, which is marked by their shared experiences of loss and resilience. The siblings navigate the challenges of their past, grappling with themes of wealth, family bonds, and the emotional scars left by their upbringing. The Dutch House serves as a backdrop to their story, symbolizing both their former privilege and the struggles they face in reconciling their present with their history. Through humor and introspection, the novel explores the enduring connection between brother and sister as they confront the ghosts of their past.
Official synopsis Publisher
At the end of the Second World War, Cyril Conroy combines luck and a single canny investment to begin an enormous real estate empire, propelling his family from poverty to enormous wealth. His first order of business is to buy the Dutch House, a lavish estate in the suburbs outside of Philadelphia. Meant as a surprise for his wife, the house sets in motion the undoing of everyone he loves.
The story is told by Cyril’s son Danny, as he and his older sister, the brilliantly acerbic and self-assured Maeve, are exiled from the house where they grew up by their stepmother. The two wealthy siblings are thrown back into the poverty their parents had escaped from and find that all they have to count on is one another. It is this unshakable bond between them that both saves their lives and thwarts their futures.
Set over the course of five decades, The Dutch House is a dark fairy tale about two smart people who cannot overcome their past. Despite every outward sign of success, Danny and Maeve are only truly comfortable when they’re together. Throughout their lives, they return to the well-worn story of what they’ve lost with humor and rage. But when at last they’re forced to confront the people who left them behind, the relationship between an indulged brother and his ever-protective sister is finally tested.
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