I had never read any Jay McInerney before this novel, but I knew that he had a reputation for good, modern American writing. And if you like that kind of thing – realistic characters with true-to-life concerns – he is one to watch. His prose is crisp and poetic and his characters are finely drawn.

Set in 2008, after the trauma of 9/11 and just as the financial crisis really begins to hit home, McInerney’s story draws a sharp portrait of New Yorkers struggling to hold on to their artistic sentiments as age and changing times force them into increasingly difficult positions. Once the new idealists, Russell and Corrine Calloway are facing difficult life choices. Russell, a niche publisher, is facing financial ruin after some poor manuscript choices. He is holding on to the image of himself as the New York artist, despite no longer being able to afford to live in their Manhattan loft. His wife, Corrine, is more grounded, but the return of her former lover, Luke, is prompting her to wonder if the secure marriage she always felt was the basis of her existence is really what she wants.

Their friends and family are struggling with similar issues – as starter wives, millionaires, struggling writers and escorts face their 40s and 50s with a variety of feelings. The looming financial crisis just adds another layer of uncertainty around this uncertain time in their lives. Never have the characters felt more nostalgic about the bright days of their youth – when they knew what they stood for and when love was so simple.

This story is well-written and insightful, although not original in its concerns.

Reviewed by Lauren Cook