cover image PARTS UNKNOWN

PARTS UNKNOWN

Kevin Brennan, . . Morrow, $24.95 (320pp) ISBN 978-0-06-001276-2

Forgiveness and retribution are key themes in newcomer Brennan's lyrical if slow-moving first novel, which tells the story of a man who abandons his responsibilities to pursue his creative needs. Bill Argus is 63 and a successful photographer of desert scenes when the novel begins. After four decades of guilt and remorse, he has finally decided to return to the tiny Northern California town of Pianto and make amends for his youthful sins. As a young man, he abandoned his 16-year-old wife, Annie, bound to him in a shotgun wedding, and left town. The story is narrated by Bill's second wife, Nora, who tenderly recounts her husband's struggles with guilt and his need to meet his son, Hayes. Nora interpolates her own fractured family life into the drama, revealing that her father abandoned her when she was only a baby. Back in Pianto, Bill and Nora find that his younger brother, Cam, picked up the pieces after Bill's departure by comforting Annie and taking Hayes under his wing. When Bill at last encounters his adult son, his decision to hide his true identity proves to be the ultimate test of will and honor. The final group photo shoot shamelessly but appropriately tugs at the heartstrings. Brennan's tone is smooth and conversational, but the frequent chronological shifts that fill in the backstory and add dimension to the characters are awkward and jarring and slow the narrative's momentum. Despite its sensitivity and poignancy, this debut lacks the adrenaline to keep it afloat. Northern California regional author appearances.(Jan.)