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In the spring of 1970, five college friends vow to have a reunion when they reach retirement age. Of these five, one dies of a heart attack a few years before the prospective gathering, spurring the rest to set a date for their reunion. Just before the event, an unfathomable tragedy befalls one, yet they all decide to carry on with their plans. As the friends and their significant others arrive for a less-than-celebratory gathering, the atmosphere is solemn, but life goes on, and the group manages to settle in and catch up. Soon, however, it becomes apparent that one of their marriages may be on the rocks, and one couple, Frank and Maureen, is still coping with unimaginable sorrow. When Alex, Frank's brother, arrives, the mood changes considerably as the tension between the brothers is tangible. Alex's arrival has unforeseen consequences that leave a lasting impact on each of the friends.
Pifher is a master storyteller with the ability to create characters that resonate not only with the generation at the center of the novel, but also with readers of all ages. He introduces each character and provides background information on the post-college years of each, leading up to the reunion. Each character has his or her own burdens, which are revealed during the weekend. Pifher delves into the political situation of America through the group's gay member and his partner. The more conservative of the group works as a foil to these characters. Conversations are intense, and the author does a wonderful job of broaching political and societal subjects. The friends engage in in-depth discussions, reflecting diverse viewpoints on various subjects. The novel is not only an enjoyable read, but also thought-provoking, grabbing one's attention from the prologue's first page and never letting go.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review