This Real Night : Book Review

"This Real Night" is the second installment in a captivating trilogy by Rebecca West, exploring the lives of an affluent British family in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the interwar period, the novel delves into the intricacies of familial connections and the weight of societal expectations.

At its core, the story centers around the Aubrey family, with a particular emphasis on the three generations of women—Sybil, her daughters Rose and Cordelia, and her granddaughter Elizabeth. Each character grapples with their own personal struggles, whether it be the pressures of societal norms, unfulfilled aspirations, or haunting past traumas. West skillfully weaves their individual narratives together to create a captivating portrayal of complex family dynamics.

While exploring the themes of women's identity and independence, the novel also examines the profound impact of war and societal change on personal lives. West's writing is masterfully descriptive, bringing the era to life with vivid imagery. Her keen understanding of human nature and social dynamics adds depth to the story, provoking thought and evoking an emotional connection with the reader.

The characters in "This Real Night" are multi-dimensional and relatable, propelling the narrative with their desires, conflicts, and interactions. Through their experiences, West illuminates the complexities and contradictions of human nature, exposing the vulnerabilities that lie beneath the polished surface of the upper class.

In conclusion, "This Real Night" is a compelling and eloquently written novel that explores the intricacies of family relationships, societal expectations, and the inner lives of its characters. Rebecca West's remarkable insight and storytelling prowess make for a thought-provoking and immersive reading experience, and it leaves readers eagerly anticipating the conclusion of the trilogy.

What are readers saying?

Rebecca West's novel, "This Real Night," has received a range of reviews, with readers offering varying opinions on different aspects of the book. Serving as a sequel to "The Fountain Overflows," the story explores the challenges faced by the Aubrey family in early 20th-century England.

Many readers appreciated Rebecca West's immersive and finely detailed writing style. They found her descriptions of characters and settings to be vivid and captivating, effectively transporting them to a different time and place. Reviewers applauded the atmospheric quality of the writing, which added depth and texture to the story.

The characters in "This Real Night" were also well received, with readers finding them relatable and well-developed. The complex dynamics within the Aubrey family were explored with nuance and depth, providing insight into each character's motivations and struggles. In particular, West's portrayal of the protagonist Rose and the other children resonated emotionally with readers, who praised its authenticity.

Opinions diverged when it came to the plot of "This Real Night." Some readers found it engaging and enthralling from start to finish, appreciating its exploration of various themes such as art, family, and societal expectations. However, there were others who felt that the pacing was slow and the plot meandered at times. These reviewers believed that the book lacked a clear central conflict, which impacted their overall enjoyment.

The historical context portrayed in "This Real Night" was a highlight for many readers. Rebecca West's meticulous research and attention to detail was praised as it provided an authentic depiction of early 20th-century England, addressing various social and political issues of the time. The historical backdrop added depth and authenticity to the novel's themes and characters, enhancing the readers' overall experience.

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