The Shortest Way Home: A Novel
Sean Doran is an expert at keeping his family at a distance, for good reason. His mother died a long, slow death from Huntington’s disease, and Sean isn’t certain that he’s dodged that genetically passed bullet. So he finds his purpose as a nurse in Third World countries, patching up strangers, victims of tribal warfare. Twenty years after his mother’s death, he flies back to the States to recharge and steps into a whole new disaster zone. His elderly aunt is showing signs of dementia, his 11-year-old orphaned nephew seems to be raising himself, and Sean’s sister, fed up with keeping an eye on both, heads off to pursue an acting career. Fay’s third novel follows the heartfelt journey of a man who has spent a lifetime escaping family ties only to discover a pull much more fulfilling than leaving. Fans of Fay’s first novel, Shelter Me (2009), will spot a familiar face in Sean’s hometown, and readers old and new will fall in love with the flawed, endearing cast of characters. A beautifully written novel infused with Fay’s generous spirit. --Diane Holcomb