3.5 Stars - This novel was less plot-driven than a slow study of people and place, narrated by the children of Sally from almost-present day looking back on a far different time and lifestyle. McDermott deftly depicts the Irish Catholic community in America, with the Sisters and religion deeply embedded in the daily lives of neighborhood residents. My favorite parts were the glimpses she revealed of the humanity behind the habits - each nun had distinct personalities and experiences that they brought with them to the convent, and I wish they had been the focus of the story. I did like Annie and her grappling with sin and forgiveness, but I hated the character of Sally. Despite her starring role in the best (and nastiest) chapter of the book on a hellish train ride, the focus on her by the characters and author seemed undeserved as she was superficial compared to the other side characters and so self-centered, even in that shocking climatic scene.

This was the June 2018 book club selection.

This historical novel set in Brooklyn in the 1940s and 50s is full of sensitive moments. A group of progressive Catholic nuns come to the rescue of women and families in need. Their dedicated and supportive efforts allow the less fortunate to live fulfilling lives and leave the bad stuff behind them. I really enjoyed this story.

Beautifully written and the characters come to life. But so dreary and heartbreaking that in all the good the nuns do, they also manage to damage generations.

Wow--this was powerful. So evocative of Irish Catholic New York and powerful themes of life and death, sin and redemption.

The ninth hour is well written and intentionally or not illustrates the stranglehold the Catholic Church holds over women but I didn’t understand or feel for many of the main characters. And I found it just deeply depressing.

Ironic, since it was Sister Lucy who pushed.

The whole concept was not something that I enjoy. Overly religious and sanctimonious, yet the writing drew me in. The prose was beautiful and I could not put it down. While I probably won’t recommend this book, I can say it was beautiful and I don’t regret picking it up.

Beautiful language. Interesting characters. Finely woven story