Book review: ‘All I wanted was a quiet life’

'A Hymn to Life' zigzags between two narratives: from Gisele Pelicot's difficult childhood to meeting Dominique Pelicot and their 50 years of marriage and her discovery of his crimes
Gisele Pelicot insists her 50 years of marriage were not a lie: that its ups and downs were real. File picture: Associated Press/ Alamy Stock Photo/ PA 

Gisele Pelicot insists her 50 years of marriage were not a lie: that its ups and downs were real. File picture: Associated Press/ Alamy Stock Photo/ PA 

Sat, 14 Mar, 2026 - 01:00
Rory O’Sullivan

  • A Hymn to Life 
  • Gisèle Pelicot 
  • Natasha Lehrer (Translator), Ruth Diver (Translator)
  • Penguin, €18.99

You have reached your article limit. Already a subscriber? Sign in

Unlimited access starts here.

Try from only €0.25 a day.

Cancel anytime

BOOKS & MORE

Check out our Books Hub where you will find the latest news, reviews, features, opinions and analysis on all things books from the Irish Examiner's team of specialist writers, columnists and contributors.

More in this section

Jimmy Crowley: Cork musicians unite for tribute concert to music legend  Jimmy Crowley: Cork musicians unite for tribute concert to music legend 
The Lumineers play in Cork this week as band turns 20: 'Ireland is always a highlight' The Lumineers play in Cork this week as band turns 20: 'Ireland is always a highlight'
Zach Bryan in Cork: How has the US star become such a phenomenon in Ireland? Zach Bryan in Cork: How has the US star become such a phenomenon in Ireland?
#Books – Non Fiction
<p>As well as his solo material, Paul Weller has made classic records as part of The Jam and the Style Council. </p>

Paul Weller: 10 great records, from The Jam and Style Council to his best solo albums 

READ NOW

Scene & Heard

Newsletter

From music and film to books and visual art, explore the best of culture in Munster and beyond. Selected by our Arts Editor and delivered weekly.

Latest

Scene & Heard

Newsletter

From music and film to books and visual art, explore the best of culture in Munster and beyond. Selected by our Arts Editor and delivered weekly.

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited