Book Review :: Tell Me Everything

There are some authors whose work you can’t help but return to, and for me, Elizabeth Strout is one of them. Her newest novel, Tell Me Everything, is the fifth installment in her Amgash series and brings back some of her most beloved characters.

Though the novel initially presents itself as Bob Burgess’s story, we’re once again immersed in the lives of familiar faces from Shirley Falls and nearby Crosby, Maine—Olive Kitteridge, Lucy Barton, Lucy’s ex (but current significant other) William, and Bob’s wife Margaret.

Olive, now 90 and living in a retirement community, spends her days reading to her good friend Isabelle (from Amy and Isabelle). Olive and Lucy’s friendship blossoms in this book as Lucy becomes a frequent visitor. Together, they recount stories of people they know — characters who may not have made it into the headlines of life, but who are no less worthy of being remembered.

While Tell Me Everything may be Bob’s story, it’s also deeply about his relationship with Lucy and their enduring friendship. The two meet regularly for walks, sharing companionship and secrets. Bob confides in Lucy about his return to smoking and his strained relationships with his brother and ex-wife. At the same time, Lucy shares her struggles with loneliness and the complexities of her relationships with her daughters. In each other, they find solace—someone who truly listens.

This connection may be what Lucy refers to when she tells Olive early in the book, “I wonder how many people in long marriages live with ghosts beside them.” In the course of the story, Lucy and Bob must come to terms with what they want from life which could determine what they can expect from each other.

What I love most about Strout’s writing is her ability to tap into the inner thoughts of her characters. She captures those moments of uncertainty and reflection – when decisions have yet to be made and commitments are on the brink of being broken.

Although Tell Me Everything can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, I believe it’s best appreciated by readers who have followed these characters over time, as the book offers a heartfelt reunion with old friends.

I was provided an advanced reader copy of Tell Me Everything by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. To learn more, go to netgalley.com. Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout is available beginning Sept. 10, 2024.