Guessing at Normal

In Guessing at Normal, Gail Ward Olmsted delivers a gripping romance that deftly explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complications of love against the backdrop of the tumultuous music industry. The novel follows the journey of Jill Griffin, a young woman seeking normalcy amid a chaotic life filled with dysfunctional family relationships and a burgeoning romance with James Sheridan, a struggling musician. Readers are introduced to a cast of characters who contribute richly to Jill's journey of self-discovery and the quest for authentic connection. Jill is a relatable heroine whose insecurities stem from her troubled upbringing. Her interactions with James reveal her brokenness and desires as she craves acceptance and love. But James, who seems to provide an anchor for her life, is also struggling with his demons —his passionate, carefree existence is punctuated by his struggles with alcohol and complex family relationships that complicate their romance. This dynamic creates a dramatic tension that permeates the narrative, making readers question what it truly means to be in love with someone unstable.  

Gail Ward Olmsted plots skillfully and creates richly explored and nuanced characters. The smartly written romance is character-driven, and the author infuses the writing with humanity and realism. Do you know the feeling when those characters you meet in a book feel as though they are living next door? This is what you experience with Olmsted’s characters. Internally, Jill struggles with her self-worth and role within James's chaotic world of music and fame—the pressure mounts as James's career fluctuates, leading to an increasing strain on their relationship. Externally, the friction between James and his brother Alex and the shifting alliances among the band members constantly remind them of the volatility of their chosen lifestyle. Olmsted illustrates how love can be redemptive and destructive, especially when success is fleeting, and dependency can lead to heartache. Additional layers of drama unfurl as Jill navigates her relationships with her family and friends, particularly her complex feelings towards her sister Susan and the weight of expectations from her mother. The duality of Jill's life—her longing for normalcy and her entanglement in the world of rock 'n roll—creates a compelling narrative that resonates with anyone who has faced the challenge of reconciling their past with their present. Guessing at Normal is inventively told and features exquisite prose and believable characters.