Night of Miracles

September 10, 2018
Mason, Mo., is the enchanting setting for a series of small but life-changing events in Berg’s winning novel (following The Story of Arthur Truluv). Lucille Howard teaches a baking class out of her home, filling some of her days now that her friend Arthur has passed away. Maddy and Nola, Arthur’s “adopted” daughter and granddaughter, often stop by, dotting the days with brief visits that bring back fond memories. Other characters in the ensemble cast include Iris Winters, new in town and still trying to move on from her divorce; Abby Summers, whose recent cancer diagnosis is challenging for her as well as for her husband, Jason, and their son, Lincoln; and Tiny Dawson, who can’t stop going to the local diner but also can’t find the courage to ask out waitress Monica Mayhew—who in turn can’t stop wishing he would. The story’s center, however, is Lucille, who doles out companionship to the friends and acquaintances who come and go through her kitchen. The language is smooth and the story moves along at a comfortable pace to a fitting, albeit easy, ending. This pleasant novel highlights the joys that can come from the little things in life.

Elizabeth Berg's heartwarming performance of her follow-up to THE STORY OF ARTHUR TRULUV centers on the lives of Lucille, Iris, Monica, Abigail, and a host of well-characterized Mason, Missouri, personalities. Berg envelops listeners with companionable warmth as she recounts the women's search for love, validation, and new beginnings in their small town. Iris, desirous of a fresh start after personal disappointments, sounds cautiously optimistic as she establishes herself anew; Monica, a sweet-voiced waitress, struggles with unrequited love; and Abigail and her family, sensitively portrayed, are beset by disturbing news. Their interconnected stories, with whimsical pragmatist and baker extraordinaire Lucille at the hub, illuminate the everyday miracles of friendship. Despite occasional background noise, the production's neighborly atmosphere, hopeful tone, and relatable characters deliver a satisfying listening experience. J.R.T. � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine