The Paper Palace (Reese's Book Club): A Novel

The rot, decay, and various vermin infestations of the protagonist’s family summer camp on Cape Cod is an obvious clue this will not be a frolic-y, frothy, “lite” summer romp of a read, in the spirit of, say, Elin Hilderbrand's Nantucket-based romances. Not that there’s anything wrong with Hilderbrand’s novels, which I truly enjoy and devour like snack bags of cheese doodles. By contrast, Miranda Cowley Heller’s deeply lyrical writing style, which in some places reads like Creative Writing 101 on steroids – i.e., no adjective or description left unturned – takes “some getting used to.” And then, she settles into an elegant prose reminiscent to me of the beauty of Donna Tartt’s evocative details in “The Goldfinch,” and bam – I was hooked. The novel, in “real time,” takes place over a 24-hour period, and yet covers 50 years of memories and the backstory of a deeply troubled family. In my humble opinion, the author’s method of storytelling, though at times whipsawing, meandering and even maddening, is brilliant and compelling. Yes, there are deeply disturbing and graphic episodes of child neglect, rape, and molestation, but these were essential to propel the plot – and the protagonist -- toward conclusion. And yes, some characters are underdeveloped, overdeveloped, obtuse, and/or unlikeable. But, though fictional, they are human, including the protagonist and her mother (whose actions, at some points, left me scratching my head). And readers may disagree with me, but the ending is PERFECT. In sum: go for it! I read tons of popular (and unpopular) fiction, and this is the best novel I've read this year. But, if you are looking for the literary equivalent of a beachy summer read (to which you are certainly entitled), turn elsewhere.

I really enjoyed this book. There were moments in my day that I just couldn't put it down. I loved the location(s) (the scenery/imagery) the book took place in and the characters. Especially the relationship between Elle and Jonas and Elle and Peter. There were moments in the book that were twisted and difficult to read which may trigger certain people. So just know it does contain sensitive topics. The ending left me feeling bittersweet but overall a great summer read.

4.5 wth stars!! I absolutely loved this book (other then the end). This was a book with so many lessons and so many hardships. While going through the past you get to enjoy watching characters blossom. With that there was a lot of pain in so many characters lives throughout. It was necessary. I can see why this book was chosen as a book of the month club book there is ALOT to discuss. Shoot I am discussing with myself nonstop. I think my favorite part is jumping from past to present. I needed that. It was all perfectly placed as well. It gave you background on why you ended up here with these characters. I mean I was in the Paper Palace with all the girls and I grieved with them. It was not all about negative stuff there was a lot of growth and love. It felt like a true story. Like was this someone’s life because I’ll be damned if it didn’t feel like it. And so I give you my second favorite thing is the characters. Omg I love everyone of them and despise many others too. You cheer them on and you cry with them. You second guess everything and wonder what could have been as well. This book was deep for me. Be aware there is a lot triggers and that comes with people writing all these negative reviews. What I say to that is know your boundaries and what you are comfortable with. There are warnings and people say I can’t handle child sexual trauma and that’s understandable. But it’s a part of a story. It builds this story. The pain, the strength, the hopelessness leads to the growth. I don’t think it was done poorly either this is real to some peoples life and I think it felt like it could have happened to anyone. Sadly it has. Now my only critique and the reason I could not give this 5 stars is because the damn ending. She left me. She has me mind boggled. And in some case that’s good. I guess it made me think non-stop about this book, so yea, that’s good. But I need more!! I told my hubby about it because even the next day I am frustrated. He says “is there a part two?” No dang it there is not!!! Get ready to ride the rollercoaster of emotions with this book. I think it is a fabulous summer read.

I found that The Paper Palace is a meticulously detailed and constructed story, that paints a vivid picture of life and emotion. It takes you through the deepest perspectives that the protagonist/her family experience throughout their lives, back and forth in time. The author creates an atmosphere that feeds a deep sea of emotions, nostalgia, and heartbreak, all while wanting to be left with hopefulness. The characters are raw, realistic, and make you question different decisions/perspectives/situations. The ending leaves you wanting more; to know what happens after it ends. It may been seen as unsatisfying to some, but I found it to be fully intentional, as to put you in the same shoes of the protagonist. I’m giving it 3.5/5, only because the details sometimes became muddy and hard to follow at times, but otherwise provided a vivid story. It is definitely something you need some tissues for, as well as the understanding that it is triggering (concerning childhood abuse), and almost leaves you with a sense of longing.

I bought this book based on recommendations/ratings and seeing it was one that was a part of Reese's Book Club. I don't want to give too much away - I liked the story, but also thought it got to be too much and ended up dragging on. It's one of those where I wanted the characters to just figure their "stuff" out and get on with it! :) It's a longer book and I thought it could've been cut down by at least 1/4. I had not read anything by this author before so perhaps that's her MO and I won't count her out and will certainly try reading another one of her books.

I am truly enjoying this book. It is very well written. The depth of the characters , the plot of the story engaging. It is a page turner that has me hooked. I feel for the characters and their plight.

From the first chapter, I was captivated by the thrill of being so close and not being caught in the act. However, the ending left me wanting more, wondering what path she decided to take, or if she opted to create a new path all on her own.

I loved this book. I loved the characters- excellent dialogue! And the lush descriptions and the propulsive plot-and the great writing--which makes this book fire on all levels. And the details-- some really odd, which I LOVE. It adds to the layers of character. There are so many stand out moments. One thing that comes to mind--when Elle is picking at the nasty grime that has built up in the holes of the ancient table, like earwax--so unusual and real and revealing. You wouldn't call this book funny--but there are some very clever humorous moments--and this is how I like my humor. With wry intelligence. Her sister telling her "fat thighs are like a phantom limb--years later you can feel them rubbing together." There is a balance between humor and pathos and the author hits it out of the park. The way the her husband interacts with the mother, making fun of her memory as if she has dementia is classic. Oh I could go on. Thank you Miranda Cowley Heller for this wonderful book! As a writer of fiction, I love to read something that makes me excited about writing!

A escritora confundi o leitor com tanta falta de objetividade

Such vivid descriptions of the family members, beautifully written, and excellent ending. Strongly recommend reading this.

This book brings up childhood memories and envelops you in sun and sand 😌

I read this book a while back, and I can't seem to read another book, because it just won't compare! I am still thinking about the characters daily and would love separate books on all the characters, one by one, starting with the fantastic mother! One of the best books I've read in a long long time. people complain about the ending, but I thought it was brilliant.

Great book, twists and turns and shocking family dynamics