Discover books similar to "The Engagements"

J. Courtney Sullivan

The Engagements

"The Engagements" by J. Courtney Sullivan is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores the institution of marriage through the interconnected stories of five different characters, spanning across different time periods and locations. At the heart of the novel is the story of Frances Gerety, a copywriter for the Philadelphia-based jewelry company, De Beers, who in 1947 coins the famous slogan "A Diamond is Forever." Through Gerety's story, Sullivan delves into the marketing and societal pressures that have made the diamond engagement ring a ubiquitous symbol of love and commitment. The novel also follows the stories of four other characters: a Holocaust survivor who finds solace in marriage after losing her first husband in the war, a young couple in the 1970s who challenge societal norms by living together before marriage, a woman in the 1980s who struggles to balance her career and family life, and a same-sex couple in the present day who fight for the right to marry. Sullivan skillfully weaves these stories together, highlighting the common threads of love, commitment, and sacrifice that run through each of them. She also raises important questions about the institution of marriage and its evolving role in society. "The Engagements" is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever been in love or considered the idea of spending the rest of their life with someone. With its engaging characters and thought-provoking themes, it is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of love, marriage, and commitment.

List of books similar to "The Engagements":

Meg Wolitzer

The Interestings

For those who enjoyed the multigenerational storytelling in 'The Engagements', 'The Interestings' by Meg Wolitzer is a great choice. This book follows a group of friends from adolescence to adulthood, exploring how their relationships and lives evolve over time. Wolitzer's character development and exploration of the human condition are reminiscent of Sullivan's work.

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Melanie Benjamin

The Aviator's Wife

If you were intrigued by the historical aspects of 'The Engagements', you might enjoy 'The Aviator's Wife' by Melanie Benjamin. This novel tells the story of Anne Morrow Lindbergh, the wife of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh, and her own journey of self-discovery and resilience. Benjamin's rich historical detail and character-driven narrative are similar to Sullivan's style.

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Mary McCarthy

The Group

For readers who appreciated the strong female characters and friendships in 'The Engagements', 'The Group' by Mary McCarthy is a must-read. This novel follows eight Vassar graduates as they navigate their lives after college, dealing with relationships, careers, and personal growth. McCarthy's sharp wit and insightful social commentary make this a compelling read.

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Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney

The Nest

For those who enjoyed the multilayered family story in 'The Engagements', 'The Nest' by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney is a great pick. This novel follows four siblings and the inheritance that threatens to tear their family apart. Sweeney's character-driven narrative and exploration of family dynamics are similar to Sullivan's style.

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Sarah McCoy

The Baker's Daughter

If you were intrigued by the different perspectives and time periods in 'The Engagements', 'The Baker's Daughter' by Sarah McCoy is a wonderful read. This novel alternates between a German baker's daughter in 1945 and a journalist in 2007, exploring themes of love, loss, and identity. McCoy's ability to weave together multiple storylines and time periods will appeal to fans of Sullivan's work.

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