Introduction to Claire Lombardo’s New Novel

Claire Lombardo, author of the New York Times bestselling debut ‘The Most Fun We Ever Had,’ returns with a compelling story that dives deeply into the intricacies of family dynamics and motherhood in her latest novel, ‘Same as It Ever Was.’ Through a richly detailed narrative, Lombardo explores the challenges, secrets, and emotional landscapes that shape her characters’ lives.

A Chance Encounter That Unravels Memories

The story kicks off with Julia Ames, who is shopping for her husband’s 60th birthday party. What begins as a seemingly mundane task—traveling two towns over for crab meat—turns into an emotionally charged moment when she encounters Helen Russo, a woman she intended to avoid for the rest of her life. This unexpected meeting triggers a cascade of memories, taking readers two decades back to when Julia and Helen first met.

The Impact of Motherhood on Julia’s Life

Julia, who was struggling with the loneliness of early motherhood, found an unexpected friend and mentor in Helen, an experienced mother of five grown sons. This friendship became a lifeline for Julia, who felt unanchored ever since becoming a mother. Lombardo masterfully explores how this relationship influenced Julia’s journey, shedding light on her complex relationship with her own mother and how it impacted her own parenting.

Alternating Narratives of Past and Present

‘Same as It Ever Was’ is structured with alternating chapters that juxtapose Julia’s past and present. This narrative technique allows readers to see the layers of secrecy, difficult decisions, and emotional turmoil that have shaped Julia’s life. Lombardo reveals the choices that led Julia to form, and then distance herself from, her defining friendship with Helen. This dual perspective also highlights the enduring influence of the past on the present.

Conclusion: An Engrossing Tale of Maternal Bonds

In ‘Same as It Ever Was,’ Claire Lombardo delivers a poignant exploration of maternal complexity, revealing the myriad ways the past can inform the present. Through her deep dive into Julia Ames’ life, Lombardo invites readers to reflect on their own family dynamics and the lasting impact of motherhood. This novel is not just a story of one woman’s journey but a broader commentary on the shared experiences that bind us all.