Penmarric (by Susan Howatch)

(Amazon UK link)

Susan Howatch is a wonderful writer, and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading her Church of England 'Starbridge' series. Then I decided it would be a good idea to try some of her longer 'saga' novels, written prior to her conversion to Christianity.

Penmarric is perhaps the best known of the longer Howatch novels. And it is definitely LONG! It begins with Mark's obsession with Janna, his marriage and infidelities, leading eventually to an unpleasant problem. Then their children's lives are followed, all marred in some way by unhappiness in their childhoods.

I found this book a bit depressing in places, but I also found it difficult to put down. Excellent writing, great understanding of human nature, and, on the whole, a hopeful ending.

Recommended if you have plenty of time available for reading!