The Bottom Line
The Senator's Wife by Sue Miller is the story of two women -- one at the beginning of her marriage, one in her later years -- who live next door to each other. I did not expect to like The Senator's Wife at the beginning of the book because I was not sure I would like the characters. Despite sometimes disagreeing with the characters and not always sympathizing with them, Miller's skilled writing drew me in. The Senator's Wife is an enjoyable read.
Pros
- Miller creates complex, believable characters
- Though not an inherently suspenseful story, Miller keeps you wanting more
- The ending pulls the novel together and makes an impact
Cons
- The characters are not always likable
Description
- Publisher: Knopf
- Published: January 2008
- 305 pages
Guide Review - 'The Senator's Wife' by Sue Miller - Book Review
Delia is a strong woman in her seventies who has been married to a famous Senator who is repeatedly unfaithful for years. Meri is an insecure newlywed in her thirties who moves next door. Most of The Senator's Wife takes place in little more than a year; however, flashbacks and the characters' reflections tell the story of these women's marriages, hopes and dreams over decades.
When I started the novel, I expected Meri and Delia's relationship to be a major focus of the story. Indeed, their relationship weaves their stories together; however, it was not the focal point I expected it to be. Meri and Delia interact only occasionally, but Miller uses the juxtaposition of their lives to reveal depth in the characters.
The Senator's Wife is a relatively simple story, but a compelling one nonetheless. Miller proves herself an excellent writer. The Senator's Wife is not groundbreaking, but it is a page turner that is light enough for the beach bag but thought provoking enough for book club.
