Relationships are often mystifying. What attracts certain
people repels others, and occasionally two persons with interests in opposing
directions still come together and form a bond. As with all connections, you
must work to keep them strong. Yet what if the interest is no longer there?
In Us, a novel by David Nicholls, we
are invited into the lives and relationship of Douglas and Connie. The story
weaves back and forth through the years of their lives from the first hint of a
crack in the relationship, to the beginning when love was new and then back
again. The mix of personalities is both interesting and part of their charm. In the beginning the differences make their
relationship more satisfying and exciting.
When Connie informs Douglas that she may be ready to move on
now that their son is leaving home, he is shocked, even knowing the
relationship has shifted. Indicating they will discuss a possible breakup more
once they have completed their trip abroad with their son, she explains that
she wants to have this time as a bonding for father and son whose relationship
has become strained. Douglas is not prepared and uses the trip to try and strengthen
his bond with both Connie and their son. His fear of loss is all pervasive. He has loved Connie since they met and he
cannot see life without her.
So begins a journey full of strange and adventurous happenings.
The extreme oddity of situations that
occur initially brings them together, then as normalcy returns the next event
begins another tear in the fabric of their union. There are tears and laughter,
sadness and anger. The real life situations and incidents make you feel like a
voyeur into a friend’s relationship with all its ups and downs. There is also
music and craziness with just enough panache to keep you involved and betting
on loves survival.
Nicholls weaves us an interesting story of love and loss,
betrayal and feeling, leaving you with an ache of emotion. His protagonists are
an eclectic mix, and his love of life shows through his characters in every
decision and move. You are transported on this journey with them, through all
the pain and laughter.
If you enjoy romance and adventure, laughter and fun, as
well as the foibles of real relationships you will find this to your liking.
This would be a great book for a reading or discussion
group. The amazing array of situations would find the most ardent of reader
eager for debate.
Rating 5/5
No comments:
Post a Comment