Toby Brookes’ novel All That She Brings follows the story of Matthew Banks, a young insurance executive in Hartford who suddenly finds himself a widow after losing his wife in a fiery crash. Soon after, her infidelity is uncovered and he becomes dangerously tormented, acting out in ways alarming to both his neighbors and employer. His company arranges sessions with their internal therapist, and while engaged in deeply provocative counseling, more trouble arises at home in Pasadena. He flees west to attend to his mother’s affairs and the family estate, only to find his estranged father, who has appeared after fifteen years, demanding a piece of the estate.

A shocking call comes from the company therapist, threatening to push him over the edge. A homeless prophet living on the beach, where he often escapes to surf, offers him hope. This, and a renewed love for ceramics, help him rebuild a life he never asked for nor imagined; but one he might be able to roll with.

For readers who enjoy realist fiction in the style of Philip Roth or John Cheever, this fast moving drama layered with multiple plot lines is reminiscent of a Wes Anderson screenplay. It’s guaranteed to quickly draw you in hold your attention to the end.