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Though beautifully written, fans looking for a read similar to Brooklyn will find a novel with a markedly different tone. The charm and innocence of Eilis's days as a fresh-faced, Irish immigrant have been replaced by an older, wiser, and more experienced Eilis who is dealt a huge blow in the book's opening scene. Eilis returns to Ireland and tries to map out her future. She must make a huge decision with very few people in her corner. Is an old love a way out? Is there happiness for any of the main characters? The narrative is tender, poignant, and realistic. Loneliness echoes from nearly every page and, despite its beauty, the story left me feeling resigned and gloomy. I will read anything Colm Toibin writes, but this one wasn't a hit for me.