Old House by Cécile Tormay is a captivating novel that tells the story of a grand old house and the generations of people who have called it home. The author beautifully weaves together past and present, providing a glimpse into the lives of the various inhabitants who have left their mark on the house.

Tormay's descriptive prose vividly brings the old house to life, making it feel like a character in its own right. The reader is able to imagine the creaking floorboards, the grand oak staircase, and the faded wallpaper that carries whispers of bygone days.

The novel explores themes of love, loss, and family, as well as the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it. The characters are richly drawn and each one brings a unique perspective to the story, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

Overall, Old House is a beautifully written and engaging novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction and stories about the enduring power of home and family. Tormay's storytelling is both poignant and immersive, making this a book that will linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.

Book Description:
On a snowy winter's evening, Christopher Ulwing returns to his home, known as The New House for the last thirty years. Settled between the Buda hills and the plains of Pest, on the banks of the Danube, the suburb of Leopold has an abandoned feel, but Christopher has been given the task of restoring the castle, to the chagrin of its current resident, his son, John Hubert. At least little Anne is happy to see him and through her constant questioning, Christopher if forced to dwell on the past as he undertakes the renovation over several years. But strife is on the horizon, with revolution, the breakup of the Hungarian Kingdom and the formation of a new republic. - Summary by Lynne Thompson