Intermezzo, A Novel By Sally Rooney

In this exquisitely moving novel by Sally Rooney, brothers Peter and Ivan Koubek navigate the complexities of grief, love, and family following their father’s death. Peter, a successful lawyer in Dublin, appears unshakeable but is secretly medicating himself to cope with loss and struggling with his relationships—his enduring first love, Sylvia, and Naomi, a carefree college student who views life as a joke. Meanwhile, Ivan, a socially awkward twenty-two-year-old chess player, feels like the antithesis of his brother. As he grapples with his own grief, he unexpectedly connects with Margaret, an older woman escaping her turbulent past. Their intense bond offers both solace and confusion in the wake of their shared loss.

The story unfolds as the brothers and their loves explore a new phase of life filled with desire, despair, and unforeseen possibilities. Rooney’s sharp prose captures the intricate dynamics of family and the profound ways individuals cope with pain, revealing how deeply one life can resonate with another. As Peter and Ivan confront their differences and the weight of their emotions, they embark on a journey that tests their resilience and the limits of love. This poignant narrative invites readers to delve into the complexities of human connection, making it a powerful exploration of how grief shapes relationships and the potential for healing amidst heartache. 📚❤️