The Glass Lake - A Must Read. Review on Glass Lake, The - Maeve Binchy

The Glass Lake is one of the finest books by Maeve Binchy which characterizes the story of the contemplate character Kit McMahon and her Mother Helen McMahon (Lena Grey). The novel is set in a small Irish village called Lough Glass with sections sited in Dublin & London.

The novel is a tale of the McMahon Family comprising of Martin McMahon, a pharmacist, his wife Helen McMahon and their kids Kit & Emmet. Martin McMahon marries Helen McMahon knowing that he was her second option and loves her fully. The kids grow up noticing nothing wrong in their years of relationship but did witness their parents sleeping in different rooms.

The turning point in the story beings when Helen is assumed to be lost and Martin’s boat is seen upside down on the lake. On the same night, Kit discovers a letter on her father’s pillow from her mother which she burns unopened assuming that her mother had committed suicide and would not have a catholic burial if the villagers make out that Helen had committed suicide. After hours of searching, an eroded body is found in the lake and the villagers assume it to be Helen’s. A funeral is arranged and the villagers mourn her death.

Though in real Helen McMahon has moved away to London with Louis, her first love she loved deeply. It is in London that Helen changes her name to Lena Grey, wife of Louis Grey, though legally not married. Lena’s charm and her efficiency help her find a successful job in a recruitment agency that changes the destiny of the agency.

How and what makes Lena get in touch with Kit back again is interesting and makes compulsive reading. The novel also bring into life a few interesting characters such as Sister Madeleine, the Hermit, Clio, Anna Kelly and a few others who add spice to the tale.

The book is a beautiful piece of literature and Maeve’s work is amazing. The language is not at all complex though I am not very sure as to what age groups the book targets. Do read this book; it will take you through a range of emotions leaving you with a warm feeling.

As far as I am concerned, the book will probably remain in my shelf for a re-read.