46 pages • 1 hour read
This Must Be the Place
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Book Brief
496
Novel • Fiction
Ireland • 2010s
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
This Must Be the Place by Maggie O'Farrell intertwines the lives of various individuals across time and geography, exploring complex relationships and personal rediscovery. The narrative focuses on a linguist and a reclusive former film star, revealing the impacts of past choices and secrets on their present and futures. Themes include identity, family, and connection.
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Emotional
Melancholic
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
50,888 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
This Must Be the Place by Maggie O'Farrell is praised for its intricate narrative structure and well-developed characters that evoke empathy. The novel's exploration of complex family dynamics and identity is compelling, though some find its shifting timelines and perspectives disorienting. Overall, it's seen as an emotionally resonant and ambitious work.
Who Should Read This Must Be the Place?
Readers who enjoy This Must Be the Place by Maggie O'Farrell are typically drawn to intricate character studies and interconnected narratives. Fans of layered storytelling found in works like Ann Patchett's Commonwealth or David Nicholls's One Day would likely appreciate the emotional depth and exploration of relationships in this novel.
50,888 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Claudette Wells
Claudette Wells
A secondary protagonist and former actress who retreats from public life to find peace and stability, becoming Daniel's primary love interest and providing a haven for him and his family.
Ari Lefevre Lindstrom Wells Sullivan
Ari Lefevre Lindstrom Wells Sullivan
Claudette’s son, whose childhood stammer and evolving confidence play a pivotal role in connecting and reuniting his family members throughout the narrative.
Niall Sullivan
Niall Sullivan
Daniel's son, who contends with the physical and social challenges of eczema while pursuing a career in seismology, reflecting deep connections and themes of secrecy and impact.
Phoebe and Marithe Sullivan
Phoebe and Marithe Sullivan
Daniel’s daughters who, despite being separated by circumstance and never meeting, share connections of appearance and experiences with trauma and family secrets.
Nicola Janks
Nicola Janks
A strong, independent academic and Daniel’s first love who struggles with personal challenges and unresolved trauma, impacting her relationships and life choices.
496
Novel • Fiction
Ireland • 2010s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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