Intermezzo explores the devastating effect of loss on people, telling the story of brothers Ivan and Peter as they struggle to cope with their father's death. The novel focuses on how death and failure force the protagonists to reevaluate their priorities and find a new sense of purpose.
Rooney tackles important themes like chronic pain, the weight of societal expectations, and the housing crisis, explored through the experiences of the female characters. Despite the challenging topics, the book is infused with optimism: personal growth and the ability to find joy and connection are at the heart of the story.
In Intermezzo, Rooney balances emotion and introspection, offering a deep and captivating narrative with characters who become true allies to the reader. It's a mature and moving work that deserves to be read—and one I found to be the author’s best so far.
by inabookhole