Dale-Louise Antram

Very interesting and unusual. Certainly got me think and therefore I think it is a great novel for bookclubs as there is so much to discuss. A very philosophical read. It is almost a self help fictional story, which conveys the idea that we should do what makes us happy, that most of life’s experiences are more about our perception of events than the events themselves. I enjoyed this insightful descriptions of the characters. I will definitely read it again.

If you were to tell a friend about the basic plot of this novel it would sound rather cliched, but amazingly it isn't ! Heartfelt would be one word I would use to describe this novel. Marianne and Connell are simple, yet complex individuals who are flawed like all of us. It is also an insightful look at socio economic status and how dysfunctional people are in all walks of life. Lorraine as a caring and fallible mum is brilliant, whereas Marianne's mother is callous and isolated. The love Connell and Marianne share is timeless and it seems to me that a relationship like theirs comes along once in a series of lifetimes. They will never love anyone else like they love each other. For all the raunchy sex scenes their connection is very much a soul connection. It is a beautifully simple yet complex story of two characters who are nervous and inexperienced, yet at such a tender age find a love that most people only dream about. I hope there is a sequel and they stay together, because if they don't they will always pine about what could have been. They will never be happy with other people. A novel that must have a sequel, but only if it is with the same characters / actors and the Irish setting. The music was a delicious accompaniment to a story that certainly restored my faith in love. It was especially pertinent during the world's lock down. It restored my faith in humanity and true love. Illustrating that care and compassion can exist even if there are bitter, empty souls like the mother and brother in our lives. However, who knows what sadness is in their hearts to be able to project such hatred and cruelty.