Read Recently: Bel Canto by Anne Patchett
Backstory: I’ve been trying to get to this book for 2 years. Finally I just bumped to the front of the line.
Notes: Inspired by a an actual incident, a group of terrorists seize a birthday party of a wealthy Japanese industrialist being held in a nameless South American country. On hand are that country’s Vice President, several diplomats and the world’s most famous opera singer. Over months of standoff, terrorists and hostages realize a bond neither of them thought they had, a bond betted by a love of beautiful music.
Verdict: Patchett’s command of language, mood and setting are masterful. At first I objected that her tone–polite, even a bit aloof–seemed a rather cruel way of discussing hostages and home invasions. But even though she takes her time, it makes sense if you can hang in there with her.
Two minor objections: The characters are mostly servicable types rather than real people, which didn’t bother me all that muh and the ending is an irrational rush to tie everything up. Still recommended.