The Heirs

A Novel

By: Susan Rieger

Narrated by: Kimberly Farr

An “original and moving” (The New York Times Book Review), “must-read” (People) portrait of an unforgettable, patrician Manhattan family and the tangled nature of inheritance and legacy, from the author of Like Mother, Like Mother

“An absorbing page-turner, full of sex and secrets . . . I loved getting to know the entire Falkes clan.”—New York Times bestselling author Emma Straub

AN NPR BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

When English-born lawyer Rupert Falkes dies, his wife and five adult sons are bereft—even more so when six months later, their grieving is interrupted by an unknown woman suing Rupert’s estate, claiming that he was also the father to her two sons.

The Falkes brothers are pitched into turmoil, at once missing their father and feeling betrayed by him. In disconcerting contrast, their mother, Eleanor, is cool and calm, showing preternatural composure. Eleanor and Rupert had made an admirable life together, and they were proud of their handsome, talented sons: Harry, a brash law professor; Will, a savvy Hollywood agent; Sam, an astute doctor and scientific researcher; Jack, a jazz trumpet prodigy; Tom, a public-spirited federal prosecutor. The brothers see their identity and success as inextricably tied to family loyalty—a loyalty they always believed their father shared.

Struggling to reclaim their identity, the brothers find Eleanor’s sympathy toward the woman and her sons confounding, and they begin to question whether they knew either of their parents at all.

The Heirs

Excellent read. The story line kept me engaged. I would definitely recommend to a friend.

Good, but not great

Any additional comments?

I had a hard time caring about these characters. They seemed quite stereotyped to me.

loved this book

I didn't want this book to end. It was delightful. The narrator distracted from the story when she tried to speak with an accent as she didn't sound British or from Brooklyn.

Intelligent, touching and deep, yet with levity!

The story was touching and told from perspectives
that were haughty, yet relatable - situations I expect my grandparents and parents may have know. people can imagine their parents and grandparents may have encountered, yet there are contemporary perspectives, those my children may be able to relate to as well. Although the story follows boys/men coming age, it is so lovely narrated from a woman’s perspective. Told through the eyes/hearts of women. The story deftly describes coupling and mothering, I highly recommend the book and listening to the audio version! I loved it. Right up there with Tom Lake.

Great listen!

Truly enjoyed this audio book. Was excited for my drive each day looking forward to hearing what came next.