Sally Rooney

Mr Salary

A Novel

Conversations with Friends

In a small Irish town, Marianne Sheridan and Connell Waldron are two high school students who share a love for reading, world affairs and social justice, and they are about to step into their college life. Marianne, who comes from a well-off family but suffers from emotional and physical abuse at the hands of her brother and indifferent mother, struggles with her self-esteem. On the other hand, Connell's mother, Lorraine, works as a cleaner for the Sheridan family, a job she took after dropping out of school due to her unexpected pregnancy with Connell. Although Connell is popular in school due to his athletic abilities and good looks, he is privately insecure, uncomfortable about his humble background, and inarticulate in conversations.

Despite their differences, Marianne and Connell find themselves drawn towards each other, fostered by their frequent encounters when Connell comes to pick his mother up from her cleaning job. Marianne, an introvert at school, confesses her feelings for Connell in private, and he reciprocates, though he struggles to express his feelings publicly due to his concern for his social standing. Their relationship takes a hit when Connell, under societal pressure, asks another girl to the senior dance, leading to Marianne's humiliation and the subsequent end of their school-time relationship.

Their paths cross again at a university in Dublin. Marianne has blossomed in the new environment and is dating Gareth, a staunch rightist, while Connell, despite his academic achievements, feels out of place due to his lower-class background. Their on-and-off relationship continues amid multiple breakups and new relationships. Marianne explores masochistic desires in her relationships, while Connell struggles with his sense of social inferiority. Their relationship is further strained by Marianne's abusive family situation and Connell's own personal struggles, including the impact of a friend's suicide. As they approach graduation, they realize the profound influence they've had on each other's lives, acknowledging the love and support they've shared despite the numerous ups and downs.

Sally Rooney Books in Order (4 Book Series)

Mr Salary

Conversations with Friends

A Novel

Normal People

A Novel

Beautiful World, Where Are You

A Novel

What To Read Next

Sally Rooney Books in Order (4 Book Series)

Mr Salary

Conversations with Friends

A Novel

Normal People

A Novel

Beautiful World, Where Are You

A Novel

What To Read Next

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