Saturday, March 30, 2019

My Coney Island Baby; Billy O'Callaghan


AUTHOR:  Billy O'Callaghan
PUBLISHER:  Harper
PUB. YEAR: 2019
SETTING:  New York
FORMAT:  -  review copy ( 241 pp)
RATING: 3.5/5

For nearly 25 years Michael and Caitlin, now in their mid 40s, have been lovers.  The two are each married but, once a month, on a Tuesday, they escape the emptiness within their marriages and, continue to carry on an intense affair at a little motel on Coney Island.  On this particular Tuesday, something is different as each is faced with a difficult situation that could mean the end of their days together.

The is a quiet novel, fairly short and plays out over the course of one day. The story reveals a lifetime of pain and regrets.  The writing is beautiful, I found myself rereading more than a few passages, at times it was tender and sad.  I liked that the reader got the perspective of both Michael and Caitlin and insight into their marriages.  I liked this book and was glad I read it but,  I thought I'd love it and I just didn't.  
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13 comments:

  1. Judy KruegerMarch 30, 2019 at 11:21 AM

    Thanks for your review in any case.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Brian's Home BlogMarch 30, 2019 at 11:23 AM

    Short and sad isn't always a winner.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Helen's Book BlogMarch 30, 2019 at 3:23 PM

    The premise reminds me of the old film The Way We Were (is that right? The one where they meet once a year for an affair).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Les in OregonMarch 30, 2019 at 11:02 PM

      I think you're thinking of Same Time Next Year with Alan Alda. I remember loving that movie when it first came out.

      Delete
    2. (Diane) Bibliophile By the SeaMarch 31, 2019 at 8:29 PM

      Yes, I think Les has the title you were thinking of.

      Delete
    3. (Diane) Bibliophile By the SeaMarch 31, 2019 at 8:29 PM

      Les has the title you were thinking of. Same Time Next Year.

      Delete
  4. KMarch 31, 2019 at 4:18 AM

    This sounded an interesting book, it's a shame that it didn't turn out as good as it promised. Great review nonetheless.

    ReplyDelete
  5. JoAnnMarch 31, 2019 at 11:19 AM

    The description of this book is so appealing and I would expect to love it, too. Sorry that didn't turn out to be the case for you.

    ReplyDelete
  6. (Diane) Bibliophile By the SeaMarch 31, 2019 at 8:31 PM

    I guess they all can't be winners.

    ReplyDelete

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