The Love Story of Missy Carmichael by Beth Morrey (2020) 339 pages
Missy Carmichael, a retired librarian whose 79th birthday looms, is lonely. Her large home is empty now; she'd spent time caring for her husband Leo during his illness. She and her daughter had never been close and were now estranged. Her son had moved with his wife and young son to Australia, breaking Missy's heart. She's both prim and shy, but because she wants to have something to write about when she emails her son, she forces herself out of bed and into the park on a cold winter day. Destiny meets her in a form of a child about her grandson's age (Otis, who Missy can't stop watching), his mother, Angela (a freelance journalist who frequently curses), Sylvie (a nurturing middle-aged woman), and later, Bob (a dog).
Even as Missy's world grows, she still holds back. She's got secrets she can't share. The author tantalizes us, giving just a tidbit here or there. We learn about Missy's youth during WWII and her college days as she earned a degree in Classics. We also learn about Leo, a professor adored by his students, but often absent from his family; a man who didn't verbalize love for his wife. Missy saw his faults but stayed loyal. Missy's past and present are equally compelling, as concerns grow about her future.
I didn't want this book—a debut novel—to end. I loved it and will watching for more by this author.
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