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48 pages 1 hour read

The Dearly Beloved

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Cara Wall

The Dearly Beloved

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1960s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall follows the intersecting lives of two couples, Charles and Lily Barrett and James and Nan MacNally, as they navigate faith, marriage, parenthood, and hardships over 17 years in 1950s and 1960s America. They confront personal struggles and societal challenges, with themes including faith versus doubt and the search for meaning and purpose. The book discusses pregnancy loss, illegal abortions, sexual harassment and assault, post-traumatic stress disorder, alcohol addiction, depression, and outdated autism treatment approaches.

Contemplative

Emotional

Inspirational

Melancholic

Romantic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

34,124 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Cara Wall's The Dearly Beloved has been praised for its compelling character development and insightful exploration of faith, marriage, and friendship. Critics appreciate the nuanced storytelling and emotional depth. However, some find its pace slow and the narrative structure fragmented. Overall, it's regarded as a thoughtful and profound read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Dearly Beloved?

Readers who enjoy The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall are likely fans of character-driven, literary fiction that explores complex relationships and spiritual themes. They may appreciate books like Gilead by Marilynne Robinson and A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza. Ideal for those who savor introspective and emotionally nuanced storytelling.

4.2

34,124 ratings

78%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1960s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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