The Things We Do for Love

by Kristin Hannah • 2004 • 464 pages

4.16

85.2K ratings

Romance Chick Lit Contemporary

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Plot Summary

Unexpected Reunion Sparks Old Feelings

Angie encounters Conlan unexpectedly

Angie, while in Seattle for a theater night with her mother, unexpectedly runs into her ex-husband, Conlan. This awkward encounter stirs up old feelings, reminding her of the love they once shared and the life they had planned together. Despite the passage of time, Angie realizes she still harbors unresolved emotions about their divorce. This chance meeting forces her to confront the reality of her current life and the choices that led her there, leaving her questioning if she should reach out to Conlan and explore the possibility of rekindling their relationship.

A New Life in West End

Angie adapts to small-town life

Angie returns to her hometown of West End to help her family's struggling restaurant. She immerses herself in the work, making changes to the menu and introducing new promotions to attract customers. Despite her initial reluctance, Angie finds herself enjoying the challenge and the sense of community. Her efforts begin to pay off as business picks up, and she starts to feel a sense of belonging and purpose. However, the shadow of her past and the loss of her marriage linger, making her question if she can truly find happiness in this new chapter of her life.

Lauren's Secret Struggle

Lauren faces an unexpected challenge

High school senior Lauren Ribido is dealing with more than just the pressures of college applications. She discovers she is pregnant, a secret she keeps from everyone, including her boyfriend, David. Lauren is torn between her dreams of attending college and the reality of her situation. Her mother, who has struggled with her own issues, offers little support, leaving Lauren feeling isolated and scared. As she navigates this difficult time, Lauren finds solace in her job at DeSaria's and the unexpected kindness of Angie, who becomes a mentor and friend.

Thanksgiving with the DeSarias

Lauren experiences family warmth

Angie invites Lauren to spend Thanksgiving with the DeSaria family, offering her a glimpse of the warmth and chaos of a large, loving family. Despite her initial hesitation, Lauren is drawn into the festivities and feels a sense of belonging she has never experienced before. The day is filled with laughter, food, and the kind of familial bonds that Lauren has always longed for. However, the joy of the day is overshadowed by the secret she carries, and she struggles with the decision of whether to confide in Angie about her pregnancy.

Angie and Lauren's Growing Bond

A friendship deepens amid challenges

Angie and Lauren's relationship deepens as they spend more time together. Angie, who has been longing for a child of her own, finds herself drawn to Lauren's resilience and determination. She becomes a source of support and guidance for Lauren, who is struggling with her pregnancy and the uncertainty of her future. Through their growing friendship, both women find a sense of purpose and connection that helps them face their individual challenges. Angie begins to see the possibility of a new kind of family, while Lauren gains the courage to confront her fears.

Confronting the Past and Future

Angie considers reaching out to Conlan

As Angie settles into her new life in West End, she continues to grapple with her feelings for Conlan. The encounter in Seattle has left her questioning whether she should reach out to him and explore the possibility of reconciliation. Meanwhile, Lauren faces the reality of her pregnancy and the impact it will have on her future. Both women are at a crossroads, forced to confront their past decisions and consider what they truly want for their futures. Angie must decide if she is ready to open her heart again, while Lauren must find the strength to make a choice about her pregnancy.

A Mother's Love Reclaimed

Lauren returns with her baby

After leaving the hospital with her newborn son, Lauren finds herself back in her old neighborhood, feeling lost and alone. She realizes she can't stay away from the love and support she found with Angie. Overcoming her fear of rejection, she returns to Angie, who welcomes her with open arms, offering her a place to stay and the promise of a family. This reunion marks a turning point for Lauren, as she embraces the love she has longed for and begins to build a future for herself and her son.

Conlan's Proposal and Dilemma

Conlan proposes to Angie again

Conlan surprises Angie with a romantic getaway and proposes to her, offering a chance to rebuild their life together. However, the joy of the moment is overshadowed by the news that Lauren wants them to adopt her baby. Conlan is torn between his love for Angie and the fear of reliving past heartbreak. Angie reassures him that they are stronger now and can face any challenge together, but the decision weighs heavily on both of them as they navigate their renewed relationship.

Lauren's Heartbreaking Decision

Lauren decides to keep her baby

After giving birth, Lauren is overwhelmed by the love she feels for her son. Despite her promise to Angie and Conlan, she realizes she cannot give him up. The decision is heart-wrenching, as she knows it will hurt the people who have become her family. Lauren leaves the hospital with her baby, unsure of her future but determined to raise him. Her choice marks a significant moment of growth and self-discovery, as she embraces the responsibilities of motherhood.

Angie and Conlan's Reunion

Angie and Conlan find peace

Despite the heartbreak of losing the chance to adopt Lauren's baby, Angie and Conlan find solace in each other. They realize that their love is resilient and can withstand the challenges they face. Together, they decide to focus on their relationship and the life they want to build. This renewed commitment strengthens their bond and provides a foundation for their future, as they learn to navigate the complexities of love and loss.

A New Beginning for Lauren

Lauren starts a new chapter

With Angie's support, Lauren begins to rebuild her life. She plans to attend community college and work towards a brighter future for herself and her son. Angie offers her a place to stay and the promise of a family, providing the stability and love Lauren has always craved. This new beginning is filled with hope and possibility, as Lauren embraces the challenges of motherhood and the opportunities that lie ahead.

The Power of Forgiveness

Angie forgives and embraces love

Angie learns the power of forgiveness as she welcomes Lauren back into her life. Despite the pain of losing the chance to adopt Lauren's baby, she realizes that love is about more than fulfilling dreams. By forgiving Lauren and embracing her as family, Angie finds peace and fulfillment. This act of forgiveness strengthens her relationship with Conlan and allows her to move forward with hope and love, creating a new family dynamic that is both unexpected and deeply rewarding.

Characters

Angie Malone

Resilient and nurturing mother figure

Angie is a woman who has faced significant loss but remains open to love and forgiveness. Her relationship with Lauren allows her to experience the joys and challenges of motherhood, even if not in the way she originally envisioned. Angie's ability to forgive and embrace Lauren as family demonstrates her strength and capacity for love, ultimately leading to a renewed relationship with Conlan and a sense of peace.

Lauren Ribido

Courageous and determined young mother

Lauren is a young woman who has faced numerous challenges but remains determined to create a better life for herself and her son. Her decision to keep her baby marks a significant moment of growth, as she embraces the responsibilities of motherhood. With Angie's support, Lauren begins to build a future filled with hope and possibility, demonstrating her resilience and strength.

Conlan Malone

Supportive and loving partner

Conlan is Angie's ex-husband, who remains deeply connected to her despite their past struggles. His proposal to Angie signifies his desire to rebuild their life together, but he is also faced with the dilemma of adopting Lauren's baby. Conlan's journey is one of learning to trust and love again, as he navigates the complexities of his relationship with Angie and the challenges they face together.

Maria DeSaria

Wise and supportive matriarch

Maria is Angie's mother, who provides guidance and support to her family. Her wisdom and strength are a source of comfort for Angie, as she navigates the challenges of her relationship with Lauren and Conlan. Maria's presence is a reminder of the importance of family and the power of love and forgiveness.

David Haynes

Conflicted and loving boyfriend

David is Lauren's boyfriend and the father of her child. He struggles with the responsibilities of impending fatherhood and the impact it has on his future. Despite his love for Lauren, he is unable to fully commit to the challenges of raising a child, leading to a heartbreaking decision to part ways. David's journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as he learns to navigate the complexities of love and responsibility.

Plot Devices

Small-Town Community

A backdrop for personal growth

The small-town setting of West End serves as a backdrop for the characters' personal growth and development. The close-knit community provides a sense of belonging and support for Angie and Lauren, who are both navigating significant life changes. The town's traditions and events, such as the Thanksgiving dinner and holiday celebrations, highlight the importance of family and community in overcoming challenges. The setting also emphasizes the contrast between Angie's past life in the city and her new life in West End, where she finds a renewed sense of purpose and connection.

Family and Belonging

Central themes of connection

Family and belonging are central themes in the story, driving the characters' actions and decisions. Angie's return to her family's restaurant and her growing bond with Lauren highlight the importance of connection and support in overcoming personal challenges. The DeSaria family's warmth and chaos provide a sense of belonging for Lauren, who has longed for a family of her own. These themes are explored through the characters' relationships and interactions, emphasizing the power of love and support in navigating life's difficulties.

Forgiveness and Redemption

Central themes of healing

Forgiveness and redemption are central themes in the story, driving the characters' actions and decisions. Angie's ability to forgive Lauren and embrace her as family demonstrates the power of love and healing. This theme is explored through the characters' relationships and interactions, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness in overcoming past hurts and building a brighter future.

The Complexity of Love

Exploration of multifaceted relationships

The complexity of love is a key plot device, as the characters navigate the challenges and joys of their relationships. Angie's love for Lauren and Conlan is tested by the circumstances they face, but ultimately, it is their love that allows them to find peace and fulfillment. This exploration of love's complexities highlights the importance of resilience and forgiveness in maintaining meaningful connections.

Personal Growth and Self-Discovery

Journey of transformation

Personal growth and self-discovery are significant plot devices, as the characters undergo transformative journeys. Lauren's decision to keep her baby marks a moment of self-discovery, as she embraces the responsibilities of motherhood. Angie's journey of forgiveness and redemption allows her to find peace and fulfillment, while Conlan learns to trust and love again. These journeys of transformation emphasize the power of resilience and hope in overcoming life's challenges.

Analysis

Exploration of love, forgiveness, and growth

"Another Life" by Kristin Hannah is a poignant exploration of love, forgiveness, and personal growth. The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships, highlighting the importance of family and community in overcoming life's challenges. Through the intertwined stories of Angie and Lauren, the book examines the power of forgiveness and redemption, emphasizing that love is not just about fulfilling dreams but also about embracing imperfections and finding strength in vulnerability. The characters' journeys of self-discovery and transformation underscore the resilience of the human spirit and the hope that lies in new beginnings. Ultimately, the novel conveys a powerful message about the enduring nature of love and the healing power of forgiveness, offering readers a heartfelt and inspiring narrative about the possibilities of second chances and the beauty of unexpected family bonds.

Last updated: February 1, 2025

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Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Another Life about?

Second chances and family : Another Life explores the intertwined lives of Angie Malone, a woman returning to her hometown after a divorce, and Lauren Ribido, a pregnant teenager. It delves into themes of love, loss, and the unexpected ways in which people find family and purpose.
Small-town life and secrets: The story is set in the small town of West End, where Angie tries to revive her family's struggling restaurant while Lauren grapples with her pregnancy and the challenges of her personal life. The narrative explores the complexities of small-town life, where secrets are hard to keep and connections run deep.
Unexpected bonds and healing : As Angie and Lauren's lives intersect, they form an unlikely bond that helps them navigate their individual struggles. The novel examines how these women find strength and healing through their friendship and the support of their community.

Why should I read Another Life?

Emotional depth and complexity : Kristin Hannah masterfully crafts characters with rich emotional lives, making their struggles and triumphs deeply resonant. Readers will find themselves invested in Angie and Lauren's journeys, experiencing their pain, joy, and growth.
Exploration of family and belonging: The novel delves into the meaning of family, exploring how it can be found in unexpected places and how it can provide strength and support during difficult times. It challenges traditional notions of family and celebrates the power of human connection.
Themes of resilience and hope : Another Life is a story about overcoming adversity and finding hope in the face of loss. It highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of forgiveness and redemption in moving forward.

What is the background of Another Life?

Pacific Northwest setting : The story is set in the Pacific Northwest, specifically in the small town of West End, Washington. The setting plays a significant role, with the descriptions of the coastal landscape and the changing seasons reflecting the characters' emotional states.
Small-town dynamics: The novel explores the dynamics of a close-knit community, where everyone knows everyone else's business. This setting creates a sense of both comfort and constraint for the characters, as they navigate their personal lives within the confines of a small town.
Contemporary issues : The story touches on contemporary issues such as teenage pregnancy, divorce, and the challenges of small businesses in a changing economy. These issues provide a realistic backdrop for the characters' struggles and add depth to the narrative.

What are the most memorable quotes in Another Life?

"Things do not change; we change." : This quote, attributed to Henry David Thoreau, serves as a thematic anchor for the novel, highlighting the characters' journeys of personal growth and self-discovery and the importance of adapting to life's challenges.
"In Mama's kitchen, you were safe and warm and well loved." : This quote encapsulates the significance of family and home in the novel, emphasizing the comfort and security that Angie finds in her mother's kitchen. It also highlights the importance of tradition and connection in the DeSaria family.
"You're a good kid, Lauren. I'll think good thoughts.": This quote, spoken by Mrs. Mauk, reveals the unexpected kindness and support that Lauren receives from her neighbors. It underscores the theme of community and the importance of human connection in overcoming adversity.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Kristin Hannah use?

Emotional and evocative prose : Kristin Hannah's writing style is characterized by its emotional depth and evocative descriptions. She uses vivid language to create a strong sense of place and to convey the characters' inner lives, drawing readers into their experiences.
Multiple perspectives : The novel is told from the perspectives of both Angie and Lauren, allowing readers to understand their individual struggles and motivations. This narrative choice enhances the emotional impact of the story and provides a more nuanced exploration of the themes.
Foreshadowing and symbolism : Hannah employs subtle foreshadowing and symbolism throughout the novel, hinting at future events and adding layers of meaning to the narrative. Recurring motifs, such as the ocean and the changing seasons, reflect the characters' emotional states and the cyclical nature of life.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The Virgin Mary statue : The statue of the Virgin Mary in the DeSaria's yard, often adorned with an umbrella, symbolizes the family's deep-rooted Catholic faith and their reliance on spiritual comfort during times of hardship. It also foreshadows the themes of motherhood and sacrifice.
The rocking chair sound : The recurring sound of a rocking chair in an unused room at the cottage symbolizes the presence of the past and the lingering memories of Angie's parents. It also foreshadows the themes of loss and the passage of time.
The Speed Racer tapes : David's collection of Speed Racer tapes, which he shares with Lauren, symbolizes their shared youth and the innocence of their love. It also highlights the contrast between their carefree past and the challenges they face in the present.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

Mama's comment about babies : Mama's repeated comments about Angie trying again for a baby foreshadows the central conflict of the story and the emotional turmoil that Angie experiences. It also highlights the pressure that Angie feels from her family to conform to traditional expectations.
The mention of Sarah Dekker : The brief mention of Sarah Dekker, the teenager who changed her mind about adoption, foreshadows Lauren's own decision to keep her baby. It also highlights the theme of the complexity of love and the unpredictable nature of human relationships.
The recurring image of the ocean : The recurring image of the ocean, with its ever-changing tides and moods, foreshadows the emotional ups and downs that the characters experience. It also symbolizes the vastness of life and the unpredictable nature of fate.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Angie and Lauren's shared loss: Despite their different backgrounds and ages, Angie and Lauren are connected by their shared experiences of loss and longing. This connection allows them to form a deep bond and to support each other through their individual struggles.
Mama and Lauren's understanding: Mama's initial disapproval of Lauren is gradually replaced by a sense of understanding and empathy. This unexpected connection highlights the power of forgiveness and the importance of seeing beyond surface differences.
Conlan and Lauren's shared vulnerability: Conlan's initial distance from Lauren is gradually replaced by a sense of understanding and empathy. This unexpected connection highlights the power of forgiveness and the importance of seeing beyond surface differences.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Mira DeSaria : As Angie's sister, Mira provides a grounded perspective and a sense of family support. Her role as a mother and a businesswoman highlights the challenges that women face in balancing their personal and professional lives.
Livvy DeSaria : Angie's other sister, Livvy, offers a more cynical and humorous perspective on life. Her own experiences with love and loss provide a counterpoint to Angie's more idealistic views.
Mrs. Mauk : As the manager of Lauren's apartment building, Mrs. Mauk provides a glimpse into the struggles of the working class. Her kindness and understanding offer a sense of hope and connection in a difficult environment.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Angie's need for motherhood: Angie's unspoken motivation is her deep-seated desire to be a mother. This longing drives many of her actions and decisions, including her return to West End and her growing bond with Lauren.
Lauren's fear of abandonment: Lauren's unspoken motivation is her fear of abandonment, stemming from her mother's neglect. This fear influences her relationships and her decisions about her pregnancy.
Conlan's desire for stability: Conlan's unspoken motivation is his desire for stability and a return to the life he once shared with Angie. This desire drives his proposal and his attempts to reconcile with her.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Angie's grief and longing: Angie exhibits a complex mix of grief, longing, and resilience. Her past losses have left her emotionally vulnerable, but she also demonstrates a strong desire to move forward and find happiness.
Lauren's fear and determination: Lauren is a complex character who is both fearful and determined. She is scared of the challenges she faces, but she is also fiercely committed to creating a better life for herself and her son.
Conlan's internal conflict: Conlan exhibits an internal conflict between his love for Angie and his fear of reliving past heartbreak. He struggles to reconcile his desire for a stable future with his past experiences of loss and disappointment.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Angie's encounter with Conlan: The unexpected encounter with Conlan in Seattle is a major emotional turning point for Angie, forcing her to confront her unresolved feelings and consider the possibility of reconciliation.
Lauren's decision to keep her baby: Lauren's decision to keep her baby is a major emotional turning point, marking a shift from fear and uncertainty to a sense of purpose and determination.
Angie's decision to adopt: Angie's decision to adopt Lauren's baby is a major emotional turning point, signifying her willingness to embrace a new kind of family and to move beyond her past losses.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Angie and Lauren's friendship: The relationship between Angie and Lauren evolves from a casual acquaintance to a deep and meaningful friendship. They learn to trust and support each other, finding strength in their shared experiences.
Angie and Conlan's reconciliation: The relationship between Angie and Conlan evolves from a place of hurt and resentment to one of love and forgiveness. They learn to communicate openly and honestly, rebuilding their bond on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding.
Lauren and David's separation: The relationship between Lauren and David evolves from a passionate love affair to a heartbreaking separation. They learn to accept their individual paths and to make difficult choices for the sake of their futures.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

Lauren's future: The novel leaves Lauren's future somewhat open-ended, allowing readers to imagine the possibilities that lie ahead for her and her son. While she has made a difficult choice, the long-term consequences of that choice remain uncertain.
Conlan and Angie's future: While Angie and Conlan have reconciled, the novel leaves their future somewhat ambiguous. It is unclear whether they will be able to fully overcome their past hurts and build a lasting relationship.
The meaning of family: The novel challenges traditional notions of family, leaving readers to consider what it truly means to belong and to love. The definition of family is left open to interpretation, highlighting the diversity of human relationships.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Another Life?

Lauren's decision to keep her baby: Lauren's decision to keep her baby, despite her initial plan to give him up for adoption, is a controversial moment that raises questions about the responsibilities of motherhood and the complexities of choice.
Angie's decision to adopt: Angie's decision to adopt Lauren's baby is a controversial moment that raises questions about the boundaries of love and the potential for self-deception.
Conlan's reaction to the pregnancy: Conlan's initial reaction to Lauren's pregnancy is a controversial moment that raises questions about his ability to fully embrace a new kind of family.

Another Life Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Lauren's choice for motherhood: The ending of Another Life sees Lauren choosing to embrace motherhood, deciding to keep her baby and raise him herself. This decision is a testament to her strength and resilience, as she chooses a path that is both challenging and rewarding.
Angie and Conlan's renewed commitment: The ending also sees Angie and Conlan recommitting to their relationship, choosing to face the future together. Their decision to adopt Lauren's baby signifies their willingness to embrace a new kind of family and to move beyond their past losses.
Hope and new beginnings : The ending of Another Life is ultimately hopeful, emphasizing the power of love, forgiveness, and redemption in creating new beginnings. It suggests that even in the face of loss and heartbreak, there is always the possibility of finding happiness and fulfillment.