All We Shall Know

A Novel

By: Donal Ryan

Narrated by: Sonya Macari

A breathtaking and redemptive novel from the award-winning and Booker Prize nominated author Donal Ryan

Melody Shee is alone and in trouble. At 33 years-old, she finds herself pregnant with the child of a 17 year-old Traveller boy, Martin Toppy, and not by her husband Pat. Melody was teaching Martin to read, but now he’s gone, and Pat leaves too, full of rage. She’s trying to stay in the moment, but the future is looming, while the past won’t let her go. It’s a good thing that she meets Mary Crothery when she does. Mary is a bold young Traveller woman, and she knows more about Melody than she lets on. She might just save Melody’s life.

Following the nine months of her pregnancy, All We Shall Know unfolds with emotional immediacy in Melody’s fierce, funny, and unforgettable voice, as she contends with her choices, past and present.

Sad Beautiful Story

Extremely well written , painful at times. This narration was magnificent . I could have listened for hours more.

Breathtakingly beautiful writing.

The plot drives forward with astonishing emotions and sympathy for the unforgettable characters. I was transported completely by this amazing novel.

Another great listen.

Donal Ryan is one of the greatest writers of this century. I listen to his books over and over for the beauty of the language and the wonderful Irish accents.

Another masterpiece by Donal Ryan

Donal Ryan is a masterful writer. This is yet another novel of his where he taps into his characters deeply, vividly. It doesn’t take but a few pages to get invested in the main character’s life. Ryan’s style is lyrical, the story is simple yet sweeping. The audible performance was well rehearsed and is sensitive, thoughtful, and well paced. This is a lovely, exquisite, emotive story. An easy read, but moving and memorable.

Loved it!

Donal Ryan has officially become one of my new favorite authors. It is so hard to find genuine literature anymore, but Ryan is a brilliant exception.