May 1, 2015
Zina didn't intend to marry a movie star, but her husband Peter's talent took him from repertory theatre to the big screen, while she gave up her career as a violinist to raise their twins, Fiona and Tom. As the children grow up, Zina yearns for an outlet for her musical talent. When an opportunity to join a local ensemble arises, Peter's jealousy erupts, illuminating the strain in their marriage. Forced to choose between self-fulfillment and a peaceful marriage, Zina decides to pursue a musical career, and her choice transforms their family in unexpected ways. And, unlike the stereotypical movie-star type, Peter is committed to his marriage, despite his misgivings about Zina's burgeoning success. Though Monk (Full Circle, 2014) doesn't directly mention the feminist movement of the 1950s and '60s, Zina's concurrent struggle between family and career reflects this transformative time. The second half of the novel takes a turn for the melodramatic, as Fiona tries to follow in her father's footsteps. Monk's thoughtful portrait of a marriage in crisis will appeal to readers who enjoy midcentury family sagas.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)