This novel spans five decades in the lives of two siblings, Maeve and Danny, as they come together over the years to grapple with their childhood and the Dutch House that won’t let them go. After being exiled from the house by their stepmother, Maeve and Danny are thrust into a poverty that is foreign to them. Years later, when they are forced to confront the people who have abandoned them, the unwavering bond that has seen them through all their past trials will finally be tested.

This was my first Ann Patchett book, and it was just okay for me. Maybe I should have started with one of her other books. This novel is definitely a character study, so there isn’t much action. For the first several chapters I found myself waiting for something to happen but eventually I just accepted that this wasn’t that type of book, and I was able to enjoy it more. It covers themes of inheritance, grief, and forgiveness and showcases a sibling relationship with an interesting dynamic. The titular Dutch House feels like a central character in the book and I loved how the author crafted that. Though this book didn’t wow me, it is beautifully written so I think I will pick up another Ann Patchett novel.