Book Review : The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

Title : The Dutch House

Author : Ann Patchett

Genre : Historical Fiction

I had never read much of Ann Patchett books, this is basically my first from the author and I had my own reasons to pick this one up. Internet has been quite a boon to me since it has introduced me to so many different authors helping me expand my horizons and Patchett turned out to be one of those. Since the time, I came across the blurb of this book, I decided to pick it up and here is my take on it.

Blurb : 

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.

The first thing you would notice when you see the book is the pretty painting that adorns the cover. The painting portrays one of the major character of the book upon whom the entire story revolves. The book is written from the viewpoint of Danny, who establishes the relationship between Maeve, his sister and Andrea, his stepmother within the first few pages of the book and the story progresses from the time, the stepmother arrives to their beautiful mansion, The Dutch House.

I loved the way the book was written. Though, a historical fiction, the book progressed in a very easy language that would surely grasp the readers. The main characters in focus had their own different shades of characters and we see them evolve as the plot progresses. Though, what I was not able to grasp was the pace of the plot. At times, we see the plot moves at a quick pace (taking a leap as well) whereas at times the plot moves at a snail's pace. Though one does get attached to the main characters emoting along with them, the supporting ones do not portray as strong. 

The author beautifully captures the essence of the times transporting the readers from New York to the suburbs of Philadelphia. We see the world changing through the eyes of the protagonist each time they visit the house albeit from far. Though the book could have done well if it could have either shortened the length or evened out the gaps between each time leaps.

For anyone, who loves to read Historical Fiction, this one is a good pick. Though there were instances that my patience was tested, I decided to reach the end which was pretty satisfactory. 

My Ratings - 🌟🌟🌟1/2 out of 5 (3.5 out of 5)

Book in Few Words - Alluring yet will test your Patience