The Half Moon A Novel

The Half Moon A Novel by Mary Beth Keane, published by Simon and Schuster on May 2, 2023, is a literary exploration of marriage and family life set in a small town. This 304-page novel follows Malcolm Gephardt, a bartender who dreams of owning the Half Moon bar, and his wife Jess, a dedicated lawyer facing the challenges of motherhood and the passage of time. As Malcolm strives to make his bar a success, both characters confront their aspirations and the complexities of their relationship.
Throughout the course of one week, the narrative unfolds with Malcolm receiving shocking news about Jess, a patron of the bar going missing, and a blizzard that traps the townspeople. Keane delves into themes of midlife disappointments, the nuances of forgiveness, and the intimate dynamics of small-town living. Readers will find a thoughtful examination of the characters’ struggles and the unexpected paths they navigate as they seek to redefine their futures and understand what it truly means to be a family.
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“An insightful, riveting study of marriage.” —People
From the bestselling author of Ask Again, Yes, a masterful and “absorbing” (The New York Times) novel about a couple in a small town navigating the complexities of marriage, family, and longing.
Malcolm Gephardt, handsome and gregarious longtime bartender at the Half Moon, has always dreamed of owning a bar. When his boss finally retires, Malcolm stretches to buy the place. He sees unquantifiable magic and potential in the Half Moon and hopes to transform it into a bigger success, but struggles to stay afloat.
His smart and confident wife, Jess, has devoted herself to her law career. After years of trying for a baby, she is facing the idea that motherhood may not be in the cards for her. Like Malcolm, she feels her youth beginning to slip away and wonders how to reshape her future.
“A quick and impactful read that will stay with you long after you finish it” (theSkimm), The Half Moon takes place over the course of one week when Malcolm learns shocking news about Jess, a patron of the bar goes missing, and a blizzard hits the town of Gillam, trapping everyone in place. With a deft eye and generous spirit, Mary Beth Keane explores the disappointments and unexpected consolations of midlife, the many forms forgiveness can take, the complicated intimacy of small-town living, and what it means to be a family.
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