Barbara Davis’s The Keeper of Happy Endings intertwines historical and contemporary narratives, earning praise for emotional depth and well-drafted characters. While lauded for its heartwarming plot and engaging storytelling, some reviewers felt the pacing could have been tighter. Overall, it’s a touching, if occasionally slow, read.

(Note: Character count without tags: 330)

A reader who would enjoy The Keeper of Happy Endings by Barbara Davis likely appreciates heartfelt historical fiction with elements of romance and mystery, similar to fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or The Paris Seamstress by Natasha Lester. Ideal for those who relish multigenerational stories and rich, emotional narratives.

The Keeper of Happy Endings by Barbara Davis is a historical fiction novel that alternates between Paris in the early 1940s and Boston in the mid-1980s, intertwining the lives of Soline Roussel, a Parisian dressmaker, and Rory Grant, an aspiring gallery owner. Through dual timelines and alternating perspectives, the novel explores themes of magic, emotions, grief, loss, restoration, community, and healing as Soline and Rory's stories converge. This book discusses anti-gay bias, antisemitism, emotional abuse, and child death.

Heartwarming / Bittersweet / Inspirational / Romantic / Melancholic

**Aurora “Rory” Grant**  
Rory is a protagonist who grapples with her wealthy Boston upbringing while striving for independence and personal growth. Her interactions and decisions significantly drive the novel's plot.  

**Soline Roussel**  
Soline is a protagonist and primary narrator known for her resilience and dedication to relationships. Her experiences during wartime and her role in the Resistance highlight her strength and commitment.  

**Camilla Grant**  
Camilla is Rory's mother, portrayed as a socially conscious figure of Boston high society. Her development involves reconciling her relationship with Rory and reconsidering her classist views.  

**Anson Purcell**  
Anson is a central character admired for his bravery and selflessness, serving as a love interest and a family patriarch. His past actions and growth are crucial to the unfolding story.  

**Owen Purcell**  
Owen is an antagonist who is controlling and domineering, especially towards his son Anson. He is characterized by his decline and negative influence over family matters.  

**Cynthia “Thia” Purcell**  
Thia is a minor character who plays a key role in revealing family connections. Her past hardships and loyalty make her pivotal in reconciling family relationships.

Barbara Davis

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Novel

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Before You Read

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The Keeper of Happy Endings Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Keeper of Happy Endings Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-12

The Keeper of Happy Endings Chapters 1-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-24

The Keeper of Happy Endings Chapters 13-24 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 25-34

The Keeper of Happy Endings Chapters 25-34 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 35-Epilogue

The Keeper of Happy Endings Chapter 35-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Keeper of Happy Endings Character Analysis

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Themes

The Keeper of Happy Endings Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Keeper of Happy Endings Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Keeper of Happy Endings Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Keeper of Happy Endings Essay Topics

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The Keeper of Happy Endings Book Club Questions

The Keeper of Happy Endings

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