SEVEN DAYS OF US by Francesca Hornak is an
entertaining holiday story about family relationships. Oldest daughter, Olivia
Birch, has just returned from fighting an epidemic in Africa and has to be
quarantined for a week around Christmas. Her family, Dad named Andrew, Mom
called Emma, and sister Phoebe (who is engaged to marry George) step up to the
challenge of spending time together at their country home, Weyfield Hall. BUT
secrets abound. One member has a serious disease and a potentially compromised
immune system, yet another has an illegitimate child and more than one character
is affected by a secret romance. There are plenty of misunderstandings, substantial
sibling rivalry, and regrets for chances missed, as described by the multiple
narrators.
Even though there are some sad moments, this book offers a quick read that will make you laugh and maybe even cringe (in a
good way) at the coincidences that occur over the seven days of quarantine. At some points, it even felt a bit like the
author was channeling the ridiculously funny play, Noises Off. You will likely see your own family and holiday traditions in a new light. SEVEN
DAYS OF US was an Indie Next and Library Reads pick as well as receiving starred reviews from Booklist (“a farcical
gem”) and Library Journal. Enjoy!
