The Done Thing by Tracy Manaster
In the tradition of Olive Kitteridge and The Woman Upstairs, this "deeply human and morally saturated novel" (Library Journal, starred review) explores how a terrible crime changed one woman's life forever.
A Gripping Psychological Novel About Revenge and Redemption
Lida Stearl prides herself on always doing the right thing—it has served her well throughout her life as she built a career as an orthodontist, maintained a happy marriage, and raised her young niece after the murder of her sister by her brother-in-law, Clarence Lusk. But now that she's widowed, retired, and an empty nester, the small perfections of her orderly life aren't enough to stop her from feeling adrift.
Then a well-intentioned birthday gift leads her to discover that Clarence, on death row for his crime, is seeking pen pals from the outside as he prepares for his final appeal. For the first time in her life, Lida crosses a line—she begins to write him, pretending to be a naïve, flirtatious twenty-three year old, in an effort to seek retribution.
An Exploration of Morality and Justice
As letters pass steadily between Lida and Clarence, her obsession with revenge unfolds and she begins to question her morality. The Done Thing is an utterly memorable and engrossing exploration of forgiveness, loyalty, and justice, and how a tragic event can suddenly change a life's course.
This paperback edition from Gallery Books offers a thought-provoking narrative that examines the complexities of human nature, family bonds, and the boundaries of right and wrong. Perfect for book clubs seeking meaningful discussions about ethics, grief, and the pursuit of justice.
Ideal for Contemporary Fiction Readers
Readers who appreciate character-driven stories with moral complexity will find themselves captivated by Lida's journey. The novel delves into themes of family tragedy, widowhood, and the unexpected paths grief can take us down.
