Views on Anita Shreve please

[MaKettle]

I read a couple of her books about 15 years ago, and just picked up Testimony in the library today. Would it be fair to say that she's kind of a cross between Anita Brookner and Joanna Trollope? (But American, obv.)

gailforce, try The Patchwork Planet, Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant or The Amateur Marriage as starters. I don't love every one of Anne Tyler's books but (puts on posey hat), I think she usually has something interesting to say about the human condition (takes off posey hat).

I loved "Back When We Were Grown Ups." And most of Anne Tyler's books. I also liked "A Slipping Down Life" and "Ladder of Years." Anita Shreve's earlier books were better, I think, although I quite enjoyed "Body Surfing." Must try some Helen Dunmore.

Nice to see someone else who likes the same books :)

I love all these. I like my fiction melancholy and introspective, much like the films I enjoy watching. I hate books/films with lots of action and loads going on. I still find these novels suspenseful even though not all that much happens, really

Helen Dunmore also does brilliant short stories which are perfect for reading imbetween every cocktail/dip in the pool on holiday

I recently reread "Love of Fat Men" and really enjoyed it again

I loved Fortunes Rock! One of my all time favourite books. Wasn't so amazed by the rest.

Ah, melancholy and introspective...that would include all Brookner novels then.

I have recently discovered Alice Munro, and loved the Hateship, Friendship courtship one. Very beautiful stories. A bit sad, but somehow uplifting in its subtle humanity.

What is fortune's rock like?

Yep, another thumbs up for Alice Munro.

Never heard of Anita Brookner.... >>>heads to Amazon

any particular recommendations by AB ?

I'd recommend hotel du lac. It's years since I read any Brookner but I know I liked that one.

thanks, will look it up