Ann Patchett's novels always satisfy me. Reading one feels like fine dining - I savor every bite and can't wait to read it again.

The Dutch House was no different. Patchett weaves a family saga like few authors can. She also does a terrific job of orienting you to Place, and in this case, it's a grand and luxurious home called The Dutch House, formerly owned by The VanHoebeeks and procured by Cyril Conroy. The purchase surprises his wife, but propels him and his family into wealth, while changing the course of their lives forever.

Elna Conroy, Danny and Maeve's mother comes to life slowly as a character, somewhat in tandem and opposition with our awareness of the uniqueness of the house. Through their reminiscing in front of the house, sitting in a car and smoking cigarettes, Maeve and Danny recount memories and life choices. Small dips back and forth in time like this might be confusing in the hands of another writer, but Ann Patchett handles it deftly.

I love reading a novel that deeply pulls me in. I could see the settings, the characters, the cigarettes hidden in the pockets of hospital scrubs and the tears shed by aging women. I saw it all and wanted to drink it all in, and I often took a moment to pause and reflect at the whole of it. And maybe the highest compliment I can give is that it constantly gave me a desire to reread it soon.

Tears were shed and in the end, there was no question this is a 5 star read for me. Well done!