Simple and Concise Novel

Acclaimed novelist Anita Shreve presents a powerful portrait of truth, deception, and a troubled marriage in her thrilling* novel, "Strange Fits of Passion." The New Yorker deems it an "ingenious structure."

In the early '70s, everyone believes that Maureen and Harrold English, two successful New York City journalists, have a happy, stable marriage. However, the reality is far darker. After Maureen suffers another brutal beating, she flees with her infant daughter to a coastal town in Maine, escaping the abuse that no one in their circle even suspects.

As the weeks pass slowly, Maureen settles into her new life and identity. But just as she begins to find a sense of peace, Harrold reappears, bringing the story to a violent and unforgettable climax.

Nearly nineteen years later, a cache of documents regarding Maureen English is given to her daughter by a journalist. The truth should lie within these papers, but they raise far more questions than they answer. The daughter is left to unravel the mysteries of her mother's past and the complexities of their troubled marriage.

Through this captivating narrative, Shreve skillfully explores the themes of truth, deception, and the hidden realities that can lie beneath the surface of even the most seemingly perfect relationships. The ingenious structure of the novel keeps the reader engaged and guessing, as the story unfolds in a non-linear fashion, moving between the past and the present.

Maureen and Harrold's story is a haunting and powerful exploration of the human condition, grappling with the darker aspects of love, trust, and the devastating consequences of domestic abuse. Shreve's masterful storytelling and keen insight into the complexities of the human psyche make "Strange Fits of Passion" a must-read for fans of literary fiction and psychological drama.

In the end, the cache of documents left behind serves as a poignant reminder that the truth is often elusive, and that the past can cast long shadows over the present. This thought-provoking novel challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable realities that can lurk beneath the veneer of a seemingly perfect life, leaving a lasting impact long after the final page is turned.

product information: