ECONOGAL

Natalie Jenner’s 2024 release Every Time We Say Goodbye is outstanding on many levels. First, the story takes a compelling look at Rome in the aftermath of World War II. The city became a refuge for individuals caught up in the Hollywood blacklists of the McCarthy era.

Then the author dives deep into the human condition of the era. She focuses on the emotions of the survivors, particularly on those who lost loved ones during the war. Naturally, each character showcases the many reactions to intense loss.

Finally, Jenner’s publication date makes Every Time We Say Goodbye prescient to current events. Fascism is once again rearing its’ ugly head. How did she know how quickly the status quo would unravel? Once again, parallelism brings deeper meaning to the written words.

Vivien Lowry is a British playwright escaping to Rome after disastrous reviews. A woman with secrets in her past, she is barely living the present. Her fiancée never returned from the war. And she made several decisions in the past that still haunt her. Vivien is a compelling character. Her growth as a person is the story. Even the flashbacks to the war connect to her. Rome heals her heartbreak; Destroys it, then mends the soul again. Endurance is key.

Jenner uses a combination of fictional characters and fictionalized actions and dialogue from real life actresses and writers to create Every Time We Say Goodbye. Her story offers hope to the disenchanted. Yet, she does not overlook the evil in the world. Instead, her characters demonstrate ways to cope with those intent on disruption if not actual destruction.

The Roman Catholic Church plays a large role in the novel, like its influence on the city of Rome itself. The Church is shown without any colored lenses yet plays a pivotal role in one of the actresses finding solace in a discriminatory world. The existence of good and evil is a key theme throughout the book.

This novel is highly relatable. The characters cover the spectrum of humanity. Opening quotes from Hemmingway, Stevens and Giambattista Vico set the tone. Everyone has secrets, everyone has setbacks. And you never know when goodbye is final.

This book is suitable for many audiences. The depth of emotional growth is tremendous. I highly recommend Every Time We Say Goodbye! Natalie Jenner scores again.