Disclosure: I received a copy of this from the Goodreads First Reads program.
A portion from the back cover: A masterfully written novel about the healing power of friendship, this is the story of three women whose lives become inextricably linked after a life-changing event during their morning commute to London.
When this book was listed on Goodreads First Reads giveways I dismissed it. While I don't mind reading chick-lit and contemporary literature, I tend to only select them for long distance travel or when highly recommended by someone who knows my tastes. However, after a long day of packing books, I decided to really read the descriptions of the books on offer, and One Moment, One Morning sounded nothing like what I expected it to be. In fact, I found the concept so intriguing that it was the first book that I found myself hoping that I would be one the chosen winners. Fortunately, I was one of the selected to give it a go.
Ms. Rayner crafted such a beautifully written story of women struggling with identity, self-worth, guilt and perceived failures who are able to find comfort with friends and camaraderie among strangers. The death of one man serves to force three women into finding strength and inner-peace, while continuing to cope with the everyday. I make this sound a pleasant ride; it is not. The are moments of great discomfort as the reader is caught in the emotions portrayed. Not many books make me cry, but this one did, and not just the once. These are not super-human women who carry on as though nothing happens.
Forever intertwined, these three women must continue to cope with their families and friends despite how they feel. Hung-over, depressed or suffering the deepest of grief, they tackle the days as best they can regardless of the obstacle course of tears, hysteria or frustrations.
If you're looking for a book that feels personal, with people who have mortal and friends who go about their day in a relatively structured, yet eventful way, this could very be one for you. If you're looking for high-speed chases, sexy immortal beings or a guilty butler, you won't find it in this book, but I still suggest you hold in your hands before completely dismissing it. The characters may not be super-human, but the book is quite powerful.
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin Publication Date: 20 December 2011 Format: Paperback
i'm going to give this novel a try. thanks for thorough review.
ReplyDeletehttp://sidnereading.blogspot.com
great review. someone else a few months back pretty much summed it up as you did I'm going to put it on my reading list.
ReplyDeleteHappy Reading.