One-line Summary:

Ask Again, Yes is a poignant and deeply moving novel that explores the complexities of family, forgiveness, and the enduring power of love.

The Story of Two Families

Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane is a captivating and heartfelt novel that follows the lives of two families, the Stanhopes and the Gleesons, over the course of several decades. Set in a suburban neighborhood in New York, the story begins in the 1970s when Francis Gleeson and Brian Stanhope become rookie cops together. Despite their differences, the two men forge a friendship that will have a lasting impact on their families.

A Tragic Event

The lives of the Gleesons and the Stanhopes are forever changed when a tragic event occurs. One summer night, Anne Stanhope, Brian’s wife, shoots and wounds Peter Stanhope, her husband, and then turns the gun on herself. This shocking incident leaves both families shattered and struggling to make sense of what happened.

The Power of Forgiveness and Redemption

As the years pass, the lives of the Gleesons and the Stanhopes continue to intertwine. Francis and Lena Gleeson’s daughter, Kate, and Brian and Anne Stanhope’s son, Peter, develop a deep bond that transcends the tragedy that tore their families apart. Despite the challenges they face, including mental illness and addiction, Kate and Peter find solace in each other and navigate their way through life’s ups and downs.

Throughout the novel, Keane explores the themes of forgiveness and redemption. The characters grapple with their own demons, seeking forgiveness for their past mistakes and finding redemption in unexpected ways. The power of forgiveness is portrayed as a transformative force that has the ability to heal wounds and mend broken relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• Family is a complex and ever-evolving entity, shaped by both love and tragedy.
• Forgiveness has the power to heal and bring redemption, even in the face of unimaginable pain.
• True love and connection can transcend the darkest of circumstances.
• Mental illness and addiction are struggles that require empathy, understanding, and support.
• The past has a way of resurfacing, but it is our choices in the present that define our future.

“Sometimes, it’s the people who love us the most who can hurt us the deepest.” – Mary Beth Keane, Ask Again, Yes

In conclusion, Ask Again, Yes is a beautifully written novel that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, forgiveness, and the enduring power of love. Mary Beth Keane’s storytelling prowess shines through as she explores the lives of the Gleesons and the Stanhopes, capturing the essence of their struggles, triumphs, and the profound impact of their choices. This poignant and thought-provoking book reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for forgiveness and redemption.