The Love of My Youth
The Love of My Youth
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011
Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Rome, Italy • 21st century
2011
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Love of My Youth by Mary Gordon follows two middle-aged Americans, Miranda and Adam, who reunite by chance in Rome after decades apart. As they revisit famous Roman landmarks, they discuss aging, art, their happy marriages, and reflect on their youthful romance and its impact on their lives, ultimately accepting the paths they chose. The novel includes themes of betrayal and suicide.
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Nostalgic
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
1,147 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mary Gordon's The Love of My Youth is praised for its beautiful prose and contemplative exploration of lost love. Readers appreciate the poignant character development and realistic portrayal of youthful romance revisited in later life. However, some critique the novel for its slow pacing and lack of compelling plot twists. Overall, it's a thoughtful and introspective read for those who enjoy reflective narratives.
Who Should Read The Love of My Youth?
Fans of introspective, character-driven narratives will relish Mary Gordon's The Love of My Youth. Ideal for readers of Elizabeth Strout's Olive Kitteridge and Julian Barnes' The Sense of an Ending, this novel appeals to those who appreciate stories of love, memory, and the complexity of human relationships.
1,147 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel • Fiction
Rome, Italy • 21st century
2011
Adult
18+ years
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