"In this enveloping, emotionally intricate, suspenseful drama, McDermott lures readers into her latest meticulously rendered Irish American enclave... Like Alice Munro, McDermott is profoundly observant and mischievously witty, a sensitive and consummate illuminator of the realization of the self, the ravages of illness and loss, and the radiance of generosity... McDermott's extraordinary precision, compassion, and artistry are entrancing and sublime... This is one of literary master McDermott's most exquisite works." -Donna Seaman, Booklist, starred review
"This seamlessly written new work from National Book Award winner McDermott asks how much we owe others, how much we owe ourselves, and, of course, McDermott's consistent attention to the Catholic faith, how much we owe God ... In lucid, flowing prose, McDermott weaves her character' stories to powerful effect. Highly recommended." -Library Journal, starred review
"McDermott delivers an immense, brilliant novel about the limits of faith, the power of sacrifice, and the cost of forgiveness ... It's the thread that follows Sally's coming of age and eventual lapse of faith that is the most absorbing. Scenes detailing her benevolent encounters ... are paradoxically grotesque and irresistible ... McDermott exhibits a keen eye for character." -Publisher's Weekly, starred review
"Everything that her readers, the National Book Award committee, and the Pulitzer Prize judges love about McDermottt's stories of Irish-Catholic American life is back." -Kirkus Reviews, starred review
"The Ninth Hour by Alice McDermott: National Book Award winner McDermott is simply one of the finest living Catholic writers, and her new novel looks to capture the spirit of her previous work: families and cultures strained by the optimism of faith tempered by the suffering of reality. A man's suicide early in the novel leaves behind his pregnant wife. She is comforted by The Little Nursing Sisters of the Sick Poor, a Brooklyn convent. A generational novel sure to appeal to longtime McDermott fans, and to bring-in new readers as well." -The Millions
"Any good and proper Most-Anticipated-Fiction list of mine will always start with Alice McDermott." -The Quivering Pen
Publishers Weekly's Top 10 Literary Fiction Picks for Fall 2017
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