Reunion: A Novel By Elise Juska

Elise Juska's "Reunion" delves into the intertwined lives of three college friends approaching their twenty-fifth reunion in coastal Maine amidst the backdrop of June 2021. Hope, longing for respite from a strained marriage and pandemic parenting, anticipates the reunion with mixed emotions. Adam, content in his secluded family life, confronts nostalgia for his carefree youth. Polly, a single mother, reluctantly joins the reunion, haunted by past secrets.

As they gather, the reunion unfolds differently than expected. Hope struggles to maintain her upbeat facade amid mounting pressures, revealing cracks in their friendships. Adam's reflection on his past contrasts sharply with his current reality, prompting introspection. Polly confronts ghosts from her college years, including a closely guarded secret that threatens to surface.

Juska skillfully navigates their complexities, capturing the nuances of friendship, personal growth, and the weight of past decisions. The narrative shifts between their perspectives, offering a deep dive into their inner lives and the evolution of their relationships over time.

"Reunion" is not merely a story of nostalgia but a profound exploration of how our past influences our present and future. Juska's prose is poignant and evocative, drawing readers into the characters' dilemmas with empathy and insight. The novel is a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship, tempered by life's challenges and revelations.

With keen observation and emotional depth, Juska crafts a compelling narrative that resonates long after the final page, solidifying her reputation as a master storyteller adept at portraying the complexities of human connection and personal transformation. 📚❤️