35 pages 1 hour read

Mary Beth Keane

Ask Again, Yes

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane is a multigenerational family saga spanning over 40 years. It follows the intertwined lives of the Gleeson and Stanhope families, starting from the friendship of rookie cops Francis Gleeson and Brian Stanhope in 1973. The story delves into the complex relationship between Peter Stanhope and Kate Gleeson, their struggles, traumas, and the impact of their families’ histories on their lives. Sensitive readers should be aware that the book includes themes of childhood abuse, mental health issues, and substance dependency.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Mary Beth Keane's Ask Again, Yes is praised for its nuanced exploration of family dynamics and relationships, offering a poignant portrayal of forgiveness and resilience. Critics appreciate its character depth but note a slow-paced narrative. Overall, it's an emotionally engaging read that examines complex human connections with empathy and insight.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ask Again, Yes?

Readers who enjoy deeply emotional narratives about family, forgiveness, and resilience will appreciate Mary Beth Keane's Ask Again, Yes. Fans of Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere and Ann Patchett's The Dutch House will find this novel similarly compelling, with its intricate character studies and multi-generational drama.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Relationships: Family

Emotions/Behavior: Forgiveness

Genre

Modern Classic Fiction

Romance

Topics

Mental Illness