4 Stars
This novel, both funny and heart-breaking, reminded me of The Correspondent by Virginia Evans.
Madeline McKnight, a former Wall Street analyst, has terminal cancer. She contacts Bri Davis, the daughter of her estranged best friend, and asks her to care for her at the end of her life. In return, Madeline promises Bri 2 million dollars. Bri, a nursing student drowning in debt, takes the job. When she arrives, she learns Madeline wants her help with her unusual bucket list. An unconventional relationship develops.
The book has an interesting format. Perspective alternates between Madeline and Bri, but also included are tables, equations, information graphics, and annual reports, all elements appropriate to Madeline’s background.
The unusual relationship between the women ends up changing them both. Both learn about themselves and what is most important to them.
I loved Madeline. She’s a feisty curmudgeon who will “not go gently into that good night.” She’s intelligent, stubborn, determined, and ambitious. Forced to confront her mortality, she learns her flaws and regrets. She comes to acknowledge the complexity of human beings, both her own and that of Hetty Green, her heroine. The two had both accomplishments and failures. I came to respect Madeline more and more as I learned the obstacles she faced: in the male-dominated financial investment world, misogyny was rampant in the 80s and 90s.
Though there is sadness, the overwhelming message is positive and life-affirming: personal growth and meaningful connection are possible at any stage of one’s life.
I recommend this novel because I think it has something for everyone.
Note: I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
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