The Dutch House by Ann Patchett was my first book by this author. I’ve seen the author’s works in bookstores, but never had the urge to pick one up. And honestly, I didn’t think that a story about one family and a house could be fascinating. I was mistaken. Of course it helped that the audiobook was narrated by none other than Tom Hanks. His soothing voice, and expert skill in nuances made this a fabulous audiobook experience.

The Dutch House – Ann Patchett

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

At the end of the Second World War, Cyril Conroy combines luck and a single canny investment to begin an enormous real estate empire, propelling his family from poverty to enormous wealth. His first order of business is to buy the Dutch House, a lavish estate in the suburbs outside of Philadelphia. Meant as a surprise for his wife, the house sets in motion the undoing of everyone he loves.

The story is told by Cyril’s son Danny, as he and his older sister, the brilliantly acerbic and self-assured Maeve, are exiled from the house where they grew up by their stepmother. The two wealthy siblings are thrown back into the poverty their parents had escaped from and find that all they have to count on is one another. It is this unshakable bond between them that both saves their lives and thwarts their futures.

Set over the course of five decades, The Dutch House is a dark fairy tale about two smart people who cannot overcome their past. Despite every outward sign of success, Danny and Maeve are only truly comfortable when they’re together. Throughout their lives, they return to the well-worn story of what they’ve lost with humor and rage. But when at last they’re forced to confront the people who left them behind, the relationship between an indulged brother and his ever-protective sister is finally tested. 

Audiobook generously provided in exchange for an honest review

my thoughts

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW

The Dutch House – Ann Patchett

As I said above, the story on its own shouldn’t have been as fascinating as it was. But the family’s background, past and present, got me hooked really quick.

The real life drama. The saying and source of “shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations”, which in this case actually happened in two generation, was utterly fascinating. The real life repercussions, that came from decisions made by parents, and the struggles that followed for everyone afterwards, were as captivating as it was sad. The idea of having ONE house touch and change so many lives made this story one of a kind.

Nevertheless the plot could have easily turned into a depressing tale of loss, hate and bitterness. Instead the author wove an emotional story about a dysfunctional family, and a house that connected them all.

At the end of the book, all I could do was admire how well the author wove everything together. So many lives, so many stories, all centered around one house, that nobody could or would let go. The overall story was a bit outside of what I usually read, but I’m so very glad I picked it up. It was a true literary masterpiece, and narrated by one of the best voices available.

4 stars

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The Dutch House – Ann Patchett