Literary fiction
An American Marriage
BOTY FINALIST
Each year thousands of members vote for our Book of the Year award—congrats to An American Marriage!
Quick take
Celestial and Roy are a year into marriage when Roy is sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit. After he's exonerated, they must try to save a relationship that may have been damaged beyond repair.
Good to know
Emotional
Heavy read
Social issues
Marriage issues
Synopsis
Newlyweds Celestial and Roy are the embodiment of both the American Dream and the New South. He is a young executive, and she is an artist on the brink of an exciting career. But as they settle into the routine of their life together, they are ripped apart by circumstances neither could have imagined.
Roy is arrested and sentenced to twelve years for a crime Celestial knows he didn't commit. Though fiercely independent, Celestial finds herself bereft and unmoored, taking comfort in Andre, her childhood friend, and best man at their wedding. As Roy's time in prison passes, she is unable to hold on to the love that has been her center. After five years, Roy's conviction is suddenly overturned, and he returns to Atlanta ready to resume their life together.
This stirring love story is a profoundly insightful look into the hearts and minds of three people who are at once bound and separated by forces beyond their control. An American Marriage is a masterpiece of storytelling, an intimate look deep into the souls of people who must reckon with the past while moving forward—with hope and pain—into the future.
Member ratings (12,303)
Benita B.
Denver, CO
I was in awe of the writing, the twists and turns of the plot (some of which were happy surprises and some of which were very sad), and I was so enthralled with each and every character. Readers should know that this book is more than a love story; it is an examination of how life's sudden turns can define or redefine us.
Marine J.
Brighton, MA
An American Marriage is gripping and compelling beyond belief--a siren's song of a novel that urges to be picked up the minute you have set it down. It is poignant, raw, and, at times, slow but always deeply rewarding. The writing is delicate, precise, and eloquent.
Kerry B.
Dobbs Ferry, NY
I felt every single emotion each character experienced throughout this book — a testament to Tayari Jones’ writing. It’s a sad work to soldier through, but worth the journey. It’s truth. It’s reality.
Conner H.
Denver, CO
The book isn’t afraid to ask the tough questions. It’s riddled with beautiful imagery and thoughtful metaphor, but also grounded in heart wrenching realism. The characters are so visceral it’s scary.
Kourtney S.
Killeen, TX
I HATED how the book ended. But it captivated me from the first few pages. I’m going to have to invest in more of Ms. Jones’s books. I wonder if in Celestial’s position would I stay with Roy or go.