The Patron Saint of Liars: A Novel

After finishing this one I felt the afterglow of a great short story. You know the kind that leaves feeling like there is more to say, but you know it’s all been said? I really loved all the characters and getting chapters in their voices with their perspectives. The setting was picturesque without being tediously descriptive. The multigenerational close relationships were also exquisite. How did it take me so long to find the experience of an Ann Patchett book? I’m so glad I have now, and am excited for the next one too

I enjoyed reading and listening to this, I relished the prose and felt like I was there in the story.I got annoyed by the overuse of "said" when used to narrate conversations.There was little closure at the end. I kept waiting to hear more about the spring in the preface or for the characters to learn the truth or understand why and it didn't happen. If vagueness doesn't bother you, you'll like it :)

I have now read 4 of Ann Patchett’s novels, and although this was her first, it’s my favorite so far. A complex, flawed, almost unfathomable main character, Rose, looks for signs from God about the direction her life should take and then is relentless in her pursuit. An interesting, but also not-particularly-interesting setting—a former luxury hotel, now a home for pregnant girls in Kentucky. The time period is the 1960s-1970s. Girls come and go; a gentle giant of a property caretaker helps out; an elderly nun has super powers of her own, the ability to see one’s future and one’s past. All is made more interesting by the birth of Rose’s child, a smart and precocious little girl. The interwoven personalities, and sometimes the actions they take, leave you thinking about the book long after you’ve put it down. It’s complicated. It’s interesting. Not a bit suspenseful, but psychological. All in a low-key way that speaks to the talent of this writer. I could see it being a good choice for a book club discussion. I also listened to the audiobook. Julia Gibson is an excellent narrator, who brings the characters to life. I highly recommend this book.

The Patron Saint of Liars by Ann Patchett is an exquisitely crafted novel that draws you in with its compelling premise and rich, atmospheric storytelling. The book’s strength lies in its captivating characters and the layered narrative that seamlessly weaves together the lives of Rose, Cecilia, and Son, all of whom are beautifully flawed and achingly human. The nuns at St. Elizabeth’s add a charming and unexpected warmth to the story, offering moments of grace and wisdom amid the turmoil.Patchett’s writing shines in how it unpacks themes of love, loss, and the search for belonging. Rose’s enigmatic character anchors the story, and while it’s understandable that her mystery remains intact, the lack of closure for other plotlines feels frustrating. The ending leaves too many questions hanging, making it hard not to feel a bit let down after such a well-structured and engrossing buildup.Had the ending offered more resolution or addressed some of the loose ends, this could have easily been a 5-star read. Instead, the lack of closure makes the story feel incomplete, leaving readers with a sense of unfinished business rather than a satisfying conclusion.Despite this flaw, The Patron Saint of Liars remains a worthwhile read for its nuanced characters and evocative prose. If you appreciate stories that embrace ambiguity, you’ll find much to admire here.Rating: 3.5/5 stars

I found this book to be interesting and really liked the characters in it. The plot had a very enjoyable flow to it, sometimes I couldn’t put it down and sometimes it gave me such a sense of peace and calm.

Excellent stories, compelling characters. I didn't want it to end! I plan to recommend this book to my Book Group to read and discuss. I believe many of us can relate to Rose in some way. And Son is somehow sweet and kind but also tragic. I truly enjoyed this book.