A New York Times Notable Book
Acclaimed author Ann Patchett's debut novel, hailed as ""beautifully written . . . a first novel that second- and third-time novelists would envy for its grace, insight, and compassion” (Boston Herald)
St. Elizabeth’s, a home for unwed mothers in Habit, Kentucky, usually harbors its residents for only a little while. Not so Rose Clinton, a beautiful, mysterious woman who comes to the home pregnant but not unwed, and stays. She plans to give up her child, thinking she cannot be the mother it needs. But when Cecilia is born, Rose makes a place for herself and her daughter amid St. Elizabeth’s extended family of nuns and an ever-changing collection of pregnant teenage girls. Rose’s past won’t be kept away, though, even by St. Elizabeth’s; she cannot remain untouched by what she has left behind, even as she cannot change who she has become in the leaving.
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"I love Patchett's writing, and this one was no exception, although I was a bit startled at first having the story told by three different narrators in three different (extensive) sections. But in retrospect, I liked how that helped further distance the reader from Rose. "
— Deb (4 out of 5 stars)
“The Patron Saint of Liars is a remarkable novel…Ann Patchett is unique: a generous, fearless, and startlingly wise young writer.”
— New York Times Book Review“[A] wonderful first novel…Grade: A-.”
— Entertainment Weekly“Beautifully written…Ann Patchett has produced a first novel that second- and third-time novelists would envy for its grace, insight, and compassion.”
— Boston Herald“Assured, warm, and graceful …A moving novel that touches on the healing powers of chance sanctuaries of love and fancy in the acrid realities of living.”
— Kirkus Reviews" I usually like Ann Patchett, but this book was a disappointment. The main character was unlikable and the plot contrived. I just couldn't get into it. "
— Pamela, 6/27/2011" Didn't really like. The story never went anywhere (well, not where I wanted it to go at least!). "
— Mischa, 6/26/2011" This was such a good book and good story. "
— Julie, 6/23/2011" SUCH a good book. The characters were richly detailed, but still left me wondering (In a good way, I mean). Excellent read. "
— Elizabeth, 6/15/2011" This book made me uncomfortable, because I felt more like Rose than any other character. "
— Victoria, 6/15/2011" I think this is one of Patchett's best. "
— Jennifer, 6/11/2011" Sad that everyone bought into the main characters denial "
— Karen, 6/8/2011" I really enjoyed the book...I may have enjoyed bel canto more tho. still a good read. "
— Christine, 6/7/2011" I really, really like Ann Patchett's writing, but the best I can say about this story is ho hum. I kept hoping it would all pull together but it never did. "
— Ivy, 6/6/2011" Another "Dean" book...also with interwoven storylines, multiple first-person narrations. Strong voices and good character development. "
— Beth, 5/18/2011Ann Patchett is the author of #1 New York Times bestselling novels, works of nonfiction, and children’s books. She has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the PEN/Faulkner, the Women’s Prize in the United Kingdom, and the Book Sense Book of the Year. Her novel The Dutch House was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. Time magazine named her one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World. President Biden awarded her the National Humanities Medal in recognition of her contributions to American culture. Visit her at annpatchett.com
Julia Gibson received an MFA from New York University. She has appeared on Broadway and other major stages in New York, as well as regional theaters from Dallas to San Francisco, Chicago, Philadelphia, and more. Gibson has played major roles in productions such as The Seagull, Angels in America, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Her television and film credits include Michael Clayton, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Spin City, and One Life to Live.