Original. Smart. Funny dialogue. I really liked this book.
Go Gentle is the 2026 novel by bestselling author Maria Semple.
The story follows Adora Hazzard, a 50-something divorced Stoic philosopher living a carefully curated, highly content life in Manhattan’s historic Ansonia building.
Her days are filled with raising her teenage daughter, tutoring the children of a billionaire family, and building a “coven” of close female friends.
Adora lives by the strict Stoic principle of wanting only what she already has—until a chance encounter with a handsome stranger at the ballet changes everything. Her orderly world is quickly upended and thrown into a chaotic, madcap international caper involving:
- Black-market art deals and stolen statues
- An explosion at the Louvre
- Intrigue with a mysterious European art broker
- A fast-paced, high-stakes trip to Paris
💡 Themes
- Stoicism vs. Desire: The narrative comically tests the limits of ancient philosophy when confronted with real-world temptation and passion.
- Mid-Life Transformation: It explores a woman’s journey of rediscovery, proving that life and romance do not end after divorce.
- Quirky Female Solidarity: Adora’s “coven” of neighbors serves as a witty exploration of female friendship and community.
Several critics, including Ron Charles, described the book as a “kitchen junk-drawer of a novel,” arguing that blending a Stoic philosophy lesson, a romantic comedy, and a high-stakes art heist can feel incredibly jarring.
Fair criticism. It’s not a neat and tidy storyline. But I still recommend it.
Rick McCharles 