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.