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The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells

By Andrew Sean Greer
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells by Andrew Sean Greer delves into the life of Greta Wells, who, after a profound loss, undergoes an unusual treatment that causes her to experience alternate versions of her life in different eras. Set in 1918, 1941, and 1985, Greta witnesses how choices and circumstances redefine her relationships and identity across time. Through these time-shifted lives, she explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, ultimately seeking to understand what constitutes a meaningful existence.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're intrigued by stories that weave elements of historical fiction with a touch of magical realism. It explores a woman's journey through multiple lives across different time periods, offering a compelling narrative about love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. If you appreciate intricate storytelling and deeply emotional themes, this tale could captivate you.

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One Woman. Three Lives. Which will she choose?

The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells by Andrew Sean Greer. One Woman. Three Lives. Which will she choose?

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

It is 1985, and Greta Wells wishes she lived in any time but this one: she has lost her brother to AIDS, her lover Nathan to another woman, and cannot seem to go on alone.

To ease her sadness, her doctor suggests an unusual procedure, one that opens doors of insight into the relationships in her life, her conflicting affections, and the limitations put on a woman's life. Throughout, Greta glimpses versions of war, history, herself, and the people she loves, and as the procedures come to an end, she realises she must make a choice: one which will close every door but one, forever.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells by Andrew Sean Greer is praised for its imaginative narrative and emotional depth. Reviewers often highlight Greer’s skilful exploration of themes such as time, love, and alternate realities. The book's rich historical detail and poignant portrayal of the protagonist’s journey through different lives resonate with readers, making it a thought-provoking and engaging read.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780571295432

Publisher: Faber & Faber

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 September 2014

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Faber & Faber

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 20.0mm

Width: 125.0mm

Height: 195.0mm

Weight: 230g

Pages: 304

Collections

Andrew Sean Greer Fiction General Fiction Literary Fiction

About the Author

Andrew Sean Greer is the author of the novels: The Story of a Marriage, The Confessions of Max Tivoli, and The Path of Minor Planets, as well as the story collection How It Was for Me. He lives in San Francisco, California.

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