The Light We Lost

While this book is a little cliche and predictable at times, I still thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It is an emotional read that had me crying at the end, and I figure if a book can make me cry, it deserves at least a 4 star rating.

In this story, Lucy falls in love with Gabe on September 11, 2001. Their relationship is a tumultuous one that “ends” when Gabe chooses to follow his dream of becoming a photojournalist. Lucy then moves on and develops a more grounded, sustainable relationship with Darren. However, Gabe remains a part of her heart and her life, coming in and out at intervals. Throughout the story, the reader wonders when this is going to become a problem, knowing full well that it will.

Some readers have given this book a low rating because the plot has been done before and the outcome is somewhat predictable. I see what they mean, but I do not feel it takes away the enjoyment of reading this book. There are so many things to like about the book.

First, New York City is a nice backdrop for this story. I enjoy the references to places and people of that wonderful city. I like that the book pays homage to September 11 and to the fact that it significantly impacted the people of the city, even those that were not directly part of the tragedy. It makes me want to take another trip there.

Second, the relationship between Lucy and Gabe is not portrayed as perfect love. The author shows the flaws and develops the idea that it probably is not healthy or desirable. The author also shows the good and bad sides of Lucy's relationship with Darren. I am glad the author does not make Darren into the bad guy. He has his flaws, just like Gabe does. I also appreciate that Lucy is always considering the needs of her children in her decisions. I couldn't have respected her if she had just run off to be with Gabe.

Finally, the author's writing is well-paced and beautiful. I love the use of short chapters, which keeps the story moving along well and makes it easy to read. The language is almost poetic at times, without being pretentious or hard to understand. I enjoy the Shakespearean references. I even enjoy the unusual use of second person. It allows the reader to know from the start that Gabe will still be a part of Lucy's life in the end because she is telling the story to him.

Is this a perfect book? No. Does it contain some overdone plot tropes? Maybe. Is it worth reading? Absolutely!