For ten glorious summers, the Seton family, spanning three generations, gathered at their picturesque country home in New England. It was a time to revel in each other's company, indulge in lively games of tennis and badminton, tee off on the golf course, and raise a toast with refreshing gin and tonics on the sprawling porch, bidding farewell to the season. This annual tradition was cherished, a symbol of unity and love.
But as the eleventh summer descended upon them, fate took an unexpected turn. A hunting rifle, with a solitary cartridge remaining in its chamber, fell into the hands of the wrong person at the most unfortunate moment. In a harrowing accident, the bonds that held the Seton family together were tested and their core values challenged, potentially tearing them asunder.
In "Before You Know Kindness," Chris Bohjalian weaves a poignant family saga, brimming with relevance as it delves into some of the most pressing issues of our time. And yet, at its core, it remains timeless, exploring the uncharted territories where love often finds us, against all odds.
Drawing from his previous masterpiece, "Midwives," Bohjalian once again thrusts us into a world amidst unforgettable characters, keeping us on the edge of our seats with his sheer storytelling prowess. Few can rival his ability to orchestrate a plot, gracefully manipulating its twists and turns with the precision of a maestro.
Delighting his devoted fans, Bohjalian fearlessly confronts the complexities and complacencies of modern society's most vulnerable facets, where the personal and political collide, forcing the private into the public sphere. Through this daring drama, readers will undoubtedly find themselves grappling not only with the novel's gripping narrative but also with the echoes reverberating within their own conscience.
"Before You Know Kindness" is a tour de force, a masterful portrayal of an American family that rivals the brilliance of Amy Tan's "The Joy Luck Club." It is a novel brimming with humor, exquisitely written with a compassion that reaches the depths of our souls, inviting us to engage fully in its pages. Prepare to be captivated by Bohjalian's unparalleled storytelling prowess.
Praise continues to pour in for this magnificent work of fiction, with Booklist hailing it as "elegant" and "refined," an unequivocal triumph. For those who prefer the spoken word, the audiobook version, narrated by the talented Susan Denaker, is a compelling option. Additionally, a Large Print edition and an eBook are available for those seeking alternate formats.
As you embark on this 17-hour and 1-minute journey, prepare to surrender to the captivating world of "Before You Know Kindness," where love, family, and the unexpected intertwine in a cosmic dance that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
