Maeve Binchy - Tara Road Review

Maeve Binchy is at her best in creating characters and situations that are both eccentric and commonplace at the same time.  She quickly introduces you into the fold of the community, and before long, I felt almost as if I was part of the social circle.  With her companionable writing style, Binchy makes the reader feel welcomed and easily immersed into the story.  She gets to the heart of each character and develops personalities that are multi-dimensional and flawed.  That's what makes them all seem so real.

Tara Road is home to Ria and Danny Lynch, the two main characters whose story we follow through the novel.  Ria is an Irish woman who completely adores and trusts her handsome and charming husband, Danny.   After a series of shocking disclosures, Ria must finally own up to her obliviousness and accept the truth about her life.  On a whim, Ria decides to trade houses for a summer with an American woman who is also looking for an escape from her personal problems.  Both women end up spending time in one another's shoes, and the process gives each the perspective to go forward with life.

Tara Road is an enjoyable book that explores the relationships between family, friends, and community.  I recommend it for those times you want a light, engaging novel that is easy to pick up where you left off.  In that way, it's just like spending time with an old friend.