35 pages • 1 hour read •
Ask Again, Yes
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Book Brief
390
Novel • Fiction
New York City Suburbs • 1970s
2019
Scribner
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane is a multigenerational family saga spanning over 40 years. It follows the intertwined lives of the Gleeson and Stanhope families, starting from the friendship of rookie cops Francis Gleeson and Brian Stanhope in 1973. The story delves into the complex relationship between Peter Stanhope and Kate Gleeson, their struggles, traumas, and the impact of their families’ histories on their lives. Sensitive readers should be aware that the book includes themes of childhood abuse, mental health issues, and substance dependency.
Melancholic
Emotional
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
216,210 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mary Beth Keane's Ask Again, Yes is praised for its nuanced exploration of family dynamics and relationships, offering a poignant portrayal of forgiveness and resilience. Critics appreciate its character depth but note a slow-paced narrative. Overall, it's an emotionally engaging read that examines complex human connections with empathy and insight.
Who Should Read Ask Again, Yes?
Readers who enjoy deeply emotional narratives about family, forgiveness, and resilience will appreciate Mary Beth Keane's Ask Again, Yes. Fans of Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere and Ann Patchett's The Dutch House will find this novel similarly compelling, with its intricate character studies and multi-generational drama.
216,210 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Peter Stanhope
Peter Stanhope
Son of Anne and Brian Stanhope, Peter is a cross-country runner and history student whose pursuit of a stable life is shaped by his relationship with Kate Gleeson.
Kate Gleeson Stanhope
Kate Gleeson Stanhope
A confident friend and later spouse of Peter Stanhope, Kate is a practical and determined forensic investigator who navigates challenges in her personal and family life.
Francis Gleeson
Francis Gleeson
A New York City cop and father of Kate Gleeson, Francis is patient and charismatic, struggling with the aftermath of a violent incident that affects his personal relationships.
Ask Again, Yes was selected as one of The Washington Post's 10 Best Books of 2019, highlighting its critical acclaim and widespread popularity.
Mary Beth Keane, the author of Ask Again, Yes, visited over twenty different libraries and book clubs to engage with readers and discuss the novel's themes and writing process.
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The novel examines themes of forgiveness and resilience and was partly inspired by Keane's own experiences growing up in a family of Irish immigrants.
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390
Novel • Fiction
New York City Suburbs • 1970s
2019
Scribner
Adult
18+ years
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