Ask Again, Yes

Ask Again, Yes is a deeply moving novel that delves into the lives of two neighboring families, the Gleesons and the Stanhopes, whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. The story begins with Francis Gleeson and Brian Stanhope, rookie NYPD cops, and their wives, Lena and Anne, whose personal struggles set the stage for a dramatic turn of events. The novel beautifully captures the daily intimacies of marriage and the power of forgiveness, as the children of these families, Kate Gleeson and Peter Stanhope, navigate a lifelong friendship and love that is tested time and again. Mary Beth Keane's extraordinary novel is a heartbreaking yet redemptive portrait of family dynamics, loyalty, and the enduring power of love. It has been praised by critics and readers alike, earning a place on numerous Best Books of the Year lists and garnering accolades from notable authors.

Reviews

Sarah's Vignettes · 2019-08-13

intense 4.00

The book is emotionally intense and challenges readers with its portrayal of hardship and resilience. The characters are written with compassion, but their struggles are relentless.

This reviewer found the book to be an emotionally intense experience, with characters that are deeply compassionate but also put through significant hardships. The story's exploration of resilience and the human capacity to endure is both powerful and exhausting. They appreciated the author's ability to create such complex and relatable characters, even though the emotional weight of the narrative can be overwhelming at times. The reviewer suggests that readers should be prepared for an emotional journey.

Quick quotes

Mary Beth Keane writes with compassion for her characters but she also puts them through the mill, as she does her readers.

I was exhausted by the emotional weight of the narrative.

The story's exploration of resilience and the human capacity to endure is both powerful and exhausting.

The Bookish Libra · Suzanne · 2019-07-22

moving 4.50

The novel explores the deep connections and tragedies that bind two families over decades. The emotional depth and character development are particularly praised.

This reviewer found the novel to be a profound exploration of family dynamics and the enduring bonds between people. They appreciated the way the story unfolds over time, highlighting how past events continue to shape the present. The characters are well-developed, and their struggles feel authentic and moving. The reviewer also noted that the book's themes of forgiveness and resilience are handled with sensitivity and depth, making it a compelling read.

Quick quotes

A profoundly moving novel about two neighboring families in a suburban town, the friendship between their children, a tragedy that reverberates over four decades.

The emotional depth and character development are particularly praised.

The themes of forgiveness and resilience are handled with sensitivity and depth.

NPR · 2019-06-25

profound 4.50

The novel is a profound yet unpretentious family drama that explores themes of forgiveness and acceptance. It is praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.

This reviewer highlights the novel's ability to tackle complex themes like forgiveness and acceptance in a way that feels both profound and accessible. They appreciate the story's authenticity and the way it portrays the messy, real-life struggles of its characters. The reviewer notes that while these themes might sound cliché, the execution is anything but, making the book a compelling and thought-provoking read. The emotional depth and genuine portrayal of family dynamics are particularly noteworthy.

Quick quotes

In Keane's case, that 'something else' is a story about forgiveness and acceptance — qualities that sound gooey, but are so hard to achieve in real life.

The novel is a profound yet unpretentious family drama.

The emotional depth and genuine portrayal of family dynamics are particularly noteworthy.

Appears in Lists

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