Fran, Harriett, Alice and Roland are siblings that enjoyed spending time as children at their grandparents place in the countryside of England. Even though their mother and grandparents have long passed away, every summer they continue to gather at the home to vacation and reconnect. This year though they are thinking about selling the place. Not an easy decision.Fran brings her two young children but her husband has conveniently made other plans for the holiday. Harriett's husband is off competing in cycling races. Alice brings her ex-boyfriend's 20 year old son and Roland's got a new wife - again and he also brings his 16 year old daughter Molly.
The odd group try to live under one roof for three weeks without any TV or internet to distract them. But after a rainy few days in the country it's uncertain whether they'll last the 3 week holiday and come to a decision about their vacation home.
The Past by Tessa Hadley is a wonderful novel that explores relationships with current family but also how we remember and connect to the past.