Dugan, Polly

By alternating among the perspectives of the various characters, Dugan's first novel (after her story collection So Much a Part of You) intimately explores how grief can affect a family. The author provides a quick, unsurprising read that delves into family relationships in the wake of loss and new love, topics reminiscent of Anne Tyler's novels. [See Prepub Alert, 11/17/14.]

With decisive economy and the dramatic immediacy lent by her use of the present tense, Dugan's powerful stories present a fast-paced, cohesive, and satisfying read.