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Two Daughters
A brilliant debut reaching from the picturesque South Coast of NSW to the cloisters of Cambridge, following two young women's lives as they become entwined in ways neither could have expected. Exploring motherhood, class, social justice, love and identity, it is told with wit and empathy - perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty.
For Ava, heading to university in the city is her escape from a poverty-stricken upbringing in a tiny coastal town. Her mother deserted the family when she was a baby, leaving her with a chronically ill father who was able to provide love but little else.
On the other side of the world, Laurie tolerates university only at the urging of her father, a celebrated professor of Marxist thought. Her mother died in childbirth, and Laurie feels boxed in by her father's expectations. She dreams of freedom, far from the Cambridge cloisters.
It is within these college grounds that Ava and Laurie cross paths. They could not be more different, and yet as each grapple with the lasting effects of losing a mother, their lives become entwined in ways neither could have expected.
Ava pursues academic success and security through a marriage that catapults her into the British establishment. But will her obsession with leaving the past behind drive her to do something unthinkable? Meanwhile, rebellious Laurie forgoes academia and decides to have a baby on her own—but she could never have predicted the shock that is coming.
Alison Edwards' brilliant novel Two Daughters explores motherhood, family, class, social justice, love and identity with a large dose of wit, the occasional detour into darkness, but always with the heartbeat of hope.
For Ava, heading to university in the city is her escape from a poverty-stricken upbringing in a tiny coastal town. Her mother deserted the family when she was a baby, leaving her with a chronically ill father who was able to provide love but little else.
On the other side of the world, Laurie tolerates university only at the urging of her father, a celebrated professor of Marxist thought. Her mother died in childbirth, and Laurie feels boxed in by her father's expectations. She dreams of freedom, far from the Cambridge cloisters.
It is within these college grounds that Ava and Laurie cross paths. They could not be more different, and yet as each grapple with the lasting effects of losing a mother, their lives become entwined in ways neither could have expected.
Ava pursues academic success and security through a marriage that catapults her into the British establishment. But will her obsession with leaving the past behind drive her to do something unthinkable? Meanwhile, rebellious Laurie forgoes academia and decides to have a baby on her own—but she could never have predicted the shock that is coming.
Alison Edwards' brilliant novel Two Daughters explores motherhood, family, class, social justice, love and identity with a large dose of wit, the occasional detour into darkness, but always with the heartbeat of hope.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 17, 2024
3.5 stars
This is Alison Edwards debut story and I did enjoy it, the story as the title says is about two daughters who live on opposites sides of the world, who are both bought up by single dads in totally different worlds but years later their paths will cross, from the south coast of New South Wales to London this story takes the reader on a journey of life, love and lots of ups and downs.
Ava lives on the south coast of NSW with her father Jim who suffers from multiple scoliosis MS, her mother left when she was a baby and they live in a caravan on the edge of a national park, but her dream is to go the university and when she gets such good marks she is accepted and firstly off to Sydney, there she meets and makes friends with May, and also meets a Hollywood movie star before moving onto Cambridge University in London to complete a PHD in Political Science.
Laurie lives with her Professor of Marxist Thoughts father Eric, on the grounds of Cambridge University her mother died giving birth and she has lived a life of protests but a father who wants the best for her but Laurie is not sure what she wants but knows she wants away from Cambridge.
Ava puts everything into her PHD and then ends up marrying into the British establishment, where her life changes big time and as for Laurie she decides to have a baby as a single mum. Ava and Laurie meet and although they have one similarity in their lives they are both very different but there is one thing that will link them and neither was expecting this.
I did as I said enjoy this one, there are some wonderful characters in the story that add a lot to it as it moves along and the settings are very good, if political science, universities and PHD’s interest you then this is one to pick up, I am sure you will very much enjoy this well written story.
My thanks to the publisher Allen & Unwin AU for my copy to read and review.
This is Alison Edwards debut story and I did enjoy it, the story as the title says is about two daughters who live on opposites sides of the world, who are both bought up by single dads in totally different worlds but years later their paths will cross, from the south coast of New South Wales to London this story takes the reader on a journey of life, love and lots of ups and downs.
Ava lives on the south coast of NSW with her father Jim who suffers from multiple scoliosis MS, her mother left when she was a baby and they live in a caravan on the edge of a national park, but her dream is to go the university and when she gets such good marks she is accepted and firstly off to Sydney, there she meets and makes friends with May, and also meets a Hollywood movie star before moving onto Cambridge University in London to complete a PHD in Political Science.
Laurie lives with her Professor of Marxist Thoughts father Eric, on the grounds of Cambridge University her mother died giving birth and she has lived a life of protests but a father who wants the best for her but Laurie is not sure what she wants but knows she wants away from Cambridge.
Ava puts everything into her PHD and then ends up marrying into the British establishment, where her life changes big time and as for Laurie she decides to have a baby as a single mum. Ava and Laurie meet and although they have one similarity in their lives they are both very different but there is one thing that will link them and neither was expecting this.
I did as I said enjoy this one, there are some wonderful characters in the story that add a lot to it as it moves along and the settings are very good, if political science, universities and PHD’s interest you then this is one to pick up, I am sure you will very much enjoy this well written story.
My thanks to the publisher Allen & Unwin AU for my copy to read and review.
June 18, 2024
Ava grew up in a caravan park in Jervis Bay, New South Wales, her mother deserted her and her father Jim when Ava was a toddler. Ava is exceptionally smart, she moves to Sydney and shares a flat with May.
Laurie goes to university only at the insistence of her father Eric a professor, and he's a fan of Karl Marx. Her mother died in childbirth, and Laurie dreams of freedom, having a child of her own and to get as far away from Cambridge as she can get.
Ava earns a scholarship to Cambridge, here she meets Colin Byrne-Beaumont and they get married. Ava and Laurie both struggle with losing their mothers at a young age, the two women’s meet at Cambridge and their lives become linked in a much unexpected way.
I received a copy of Two Daughters by Alison Edwards debut novel from Alantic Books Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Using her own days studying at Cambridge as inspiration and at England's most prestigious educational insinuations, where students protested for a month about fees, and well over a hundred staff weren’t being paid the correct amount, night climbing or scaling the college gates after curfew, fraud and plagiarism all occurred.
A story about motherhood, family, social class, secrets, and self-discovery, saving the environment and trying to escape from your past. I’m sure this book is written for people who are smart and academic and a lot of it I just didn’t understand and I liked Laurie’s, May and Patrick’s characters and three stars from me.
Laurie goes to university only at the insistence of her father Eric a professor, and he's a fan of Karl Marx. Her mother died in childbirth, and Laurie dreams of freedom, having a child of her own and to get as far away from Cambridge as she can get.
Ava earns a scholarship to Cambridge, here she meets Colin Byrne-Beaumont and they get married. Ava and Laurie both struggle with losing their mothers at a young age, the two women’s meet at Cambridge and their lives become linked in a much unexpected way.
I received a copy of Two Daughters by Alison Edwards debut novel from Alantic Books Australia and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Using her own days studying at Cambridge as inspiration and at England's most prestigious educational insinuations, where students protested for a month about fees, and well over a hundred staff weren’t being paid the correct amount, night climbing or scaling the college gates after curfew, fraud and plagiarism all occurred.
A story about motherhood, family, social class, secrets, and self-discovery, saving the environment and trying to escape from your past. I’m sure this book is written for people who are smart and academic and a lot of it I just didn’t understand and I liked Laurie’s, May and Patrick’s characters and three stars from me.
December 8, 2024
This was a fantastic debut! Lots and lots of big themes- class, motherhood, education, equality…to think about, beautiful setting and complex characters. I love Two Daughters and am so looking forward to the next Alison Edwards, I think I’ll probably still be thinking about Two Daughters then…
September 6, 2024
Thank you Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Two daughters living worlds apart both physically and financially, both raised by single dads will cross paths as destiny unfolds.
The focus of motherhood, social class and identity all unfurl.
Ava is from Australia and has endured a hard life without a mother or money.
She is academically gifted and it’s a posting at Cambridge University that she will meet Laurie.
Laurie lost her mother when she was born and raised by a father who idolised Marxist views.
Being into money and privilege she cannot wait to escape life at Cambridge.
An unlikely duo meet and will be linked in a way that neither saw coming.
The sheer contrast of characters that have an overlap made for an interesting read.
It had political overlaps that at times detracted from the story but didn’t derail enjoyment.
A literary reminder that everyone has a story.
Two daughters living worlds apart both physically and financially, both raised by single dads will cross paths as destiny unfolds.
The focus of motherhood, social class and identity all unfurl.
Ava is from Australia and has endured a hard life without a mother or money.
She is academically gifted and it’s a posting at Cambridge University that she will meet Laurie.
Laurie lost her mother when she was born and raised by a father who idolised Marxist views.
Being into money and privilege she cannot wait to escape life at Cambridge.
An unlikely duo meet and will be linked in a way that neither saw coming.
The sheer contrast of characters that have an overlap made for an interesting read.
It had political overlaps that at times detracted from the story but didn’t derail enjoyment.
A literary reminder that everyone has a story.
August 1, 2024
Happy publication day 🥳🎉
A fantastic debut novel!! Ava and Laurie are worlds apart in most ways, Ava is brought up in New South Wales on a caravan park by her father who lives with MS. They are poor in most ways but rich in love. Laurie is brought up in Cambridge England, also by her father, who is by no means poor, they are rich in most ways. Laurie’s father is a professor at Cambridge and a Marxist who spends most of Laurie’s life protesting something.
Each of the girls are desperate to escape the life they know, Ava wants to travel the world, she wants freedom, adventure, and experience. Laurie wants the stability of a Cambridge education and to put down roots.
There’s a lot going on in this novel, a lot that probably went over my head, especially politically. However the character development is fabulous, the story itself is extraordinary and by the end, which was beautiful, I didn’t really want to say goodbye.
I look forward to finding out what comes next for the author.
The narration was lovely, and kept me invested.
Thank you to Wavesound from W F Howes via NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
A fantastic debut novel!! Ava and Laurie are worlds apart in most ways, Ava is brought up in New South Wales on a caravan park by her father who lives with MS. They are poor in most ways but rich in love. Laurie is brought up in Cambridge England, also by her father, who is by no means poor, they are rich in most ways. Laurie’s father is a professor at Cambridge and a Marxist who spends most of Laurie’s life protesting something.
Each of the girls are desperate to escape the life they know, Ava wants to travel the world, she wants freedom, adventure, and experience. Laurie wants the stability of a Cambridge education and to put down roots.
There’s a lot going on in this novel, a lot that probably went over my head, especially politically. However the character development is fabulous, the story itself is extraordinary and by the end, which was beautiful, I didn’t really want to say goodbye.
I look forward to finding out what comes next for the author.
The narration was lovely, and kept me invested.
Thank you to Wavesound from W F Howes via NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
January 18, 2025
3.5 stars.
For Ava, heading to university in Sydney is her escape from a poverty-stricken upbringing. Meanwhile, Laurie tolerates university only at the insistence of her father, a Marxist professor. It is within these college grounds that Ava and Laurie cross paths. They could not be more different, and yet as each grapples with the lasting effects of losing a mother, their lives become entwined in ways neither could have anticipated.
Not gonna lie, this book wasn’t what I had expected from the synopsis. I kept waiting for Ava and Laurie to meet and build a connection, but I was left wanting. Yes, they did (finally) meet briefly, but there was no friendship, and even the word ‘connection’ was a bit arguable. I’d say the best way to enjoy the book is to just treat Ava and Laurie’s storylines as two separate stories happening in parallel.
Unfortunately I didn’t connect with the characters in this one. I didn’t expect them to spend that much time in subject choices and friend cliques, and had expected to hear more about their internalised griefs and family struggles.
Having said that, one thing I liked about the book was the word crafting aspect. The structure and pace were consistent, the plot unfolded nicely, and the word choices were intelligent. The overall story was relatively easy to enjoy. For these reasons, I’ll read the author’s future books.
(Thanks to Atlantic Books for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
For Ava, heading to university in Sydney is her escape from a poverty-stricken upbringing. Meanwhile, Laurie tolerates university only at the insistence of her father, a Marxist professor. It is within these college grounds that Ava and Laurie cross paths. They could not be more different, and yet as each grapples with the lasting effects of losing a mother, their lives become entwined in ways neither could have anticipated.
Not gonna lie, this book wasn’t what I had expected from the synopsis. I kept waiting for Ava and Laurie to meet and build a connection, but I was left wanting. Yes, they did (finally) meet briefly, but there was no friendship, and even the word ‘connection’ was a bit arguable. I’d say the best way to enjoy the book is to just treat Ava and Laurie’s storylines as two separate stories happening in parallel.
Unfortunately I didn’t connect with the characters in this one. I didn’t expect them to spend that much time in subject choices and friend cliques, and had expected to hear more about their internalised griefs and family struggles.
Having said that, one thing I liked about the book was the word crafting aspect. The structure and pace were consistent, the plot unfolded nicely, and the word choices were intelligent. The overall story was relatively easy to enjoy. For these reasons, I’ll read the author’s future books.
(Thanks to Atlantic Books for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
October 16, 2024
Interesting concept but unfortunately just not an enjoyable pick for me. I felt myself skimming and wanting to get quickly to the parts brimming with action which there weren’t many of. I did like the start which hooked me straight away and the ending which connected the storyline of the two protagonists nicely but I must admit the middle was too slow for my liking.
Thanks to Allen and Unwin NZ for the review copy
Thanks to Allen and Unwin NZ for the review copy
July 31, 2024
Ava has been raised on the Australian coast by her doting, but unwell father after her mother left them and ultimately got killed by a train. When she aces her high school exams, Ava gets the chance to go to college in the city. And so begins an amazing journey in which she makes a loyal new friend, Mai and some less well suited life choices which see her moving from the sunny climes of Australia, to the ivy towers of Cambridge, UK.
Like Ava, Laurie has been raised by her Dad after her mother died in childbirth. Having spent her childhood in the shadow (and corridors) of Cambridge University), her desire to escape both the academic life (and her father's presence) sets in motion a near fatal disaster. One which begins the Sliding Doors-esq feel of this book.
Criss crossing each others lives from afar, we watch as 6 degrees of separation bring Ava and Laurie's worlds ever closer together, with each getting little tastes of the others worlds and often finding it lacking.
Supported by a host of good friends - each written in vivid detail and bringing much needed humour, joy and straight talking for our main characters. We see how Ava and Laurie have to work through lies and deceit to get to their happy ending.
A lovely story which focuses a lot on the father:daughter bond, this does contain some triggering topics including miscarriage, abortion and death of a parent. It also contains much happy content relating to friendship, child/parental relationships and the joy of motherhood and finding your happy place.
Thanks to netgalley for allowing me early access to the audiobook.
Like Ava, Laurie has been raised by her Dad after her mother died in childbirth. Having spent her childhood in the shadow (and corridors) of Cambridge University), her desire to escape both the academic life (and her father's presence) sets in motion a near fatal disaster. One which begins the Sliding Doors-esq feel of this book.
Criss crossing each others lives from afar, we watch as 6 degrees of separation bring Ava and Laurie's worlds ever closer together, with each getting little tastes of the others worlds and often finding it lacking.
Supported by a host of good friends - each written in vivid detail and bringing much needed humour, joy and straight talking for our main characters. We see how Ava and Laurie have to work through lies and deceit to get to their happy ending.
A lovely story which focuses a lot on the father:daughter bond, this does contain some triggering topics including miscarriage, abortion and death of a parent. It also contains much happy content relating to friendship, child/parental relationships and the joy of motherhood and finding your happy place.
Thanks to netgalley for allowing me early access to the audiobook.
July 7, 2024
‘Somebody knows what she did’
Ava and Laurie are two very different young women. Laurie Mélenchon grew up in Cambridge, UK, with her father Eric, a celebrated professor of Marxist thought. Ava Jacobs grew up on the coast of New South Wales with her father Jim, who lived with multiple sclerosis. Neither girl knew their mother: Laurie’s mother died in childbirth; Ava’s mother left the family when Ava was a baby.
Ava looks to university as an escape from impoverishment, Laurie looks for freedom away from Cambridge. It is at Cambridge where Ava and Laurie’s paths cross. Laurie attends university at her father’s insistence, Ava attends as a PhD student. But there’s nothing straightforward in either woman’s world. Ava will marry and become part of the establishment, Laurie will pursue her own dreams, and both will be challenged.
While I found it easy to follow both Ava and Laurie’s lives (while not always agreeing with their choices) there were a couple of twists I felt less comfortable with. And yet those twists played perfectly into the ending.
This is Ms Edwards’s first novel, and it invites you to think about chance and choice: a quietly thoughtful novel about individual identity, parenthood and the importance of love.
Did I enjoy it? Yes, mostly.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Ava and Laurie are two very different young women. Laurie Mélenchon grew up in Cambridge, UK, with her father Eric, a celebrated professor of Marxist thought. Ava Jacobs grew up on the coast of New South Wales with her father Jim, who lived with multiple sclerosis. Neither girl knew their mother: Laurie’s mother died in childbirth; Ava’s mother left the family when Ava was a baby.
Ava looks to university as an escape from impoverishment, Laurie looks for freedom away from Cambridge. It is at Cambridge where Ava and Laurie’s paths cross. Laurie attends university at her father’s insistence, Ava attends as a PhD student. But there’s nothing straightforward in either woman’s world. Ava will marry and become part of the establishment, Laurie will pursue her own dreams, and both will be challenged.
While I found it easy to follow both Ava and Laurie’s lives (while not always agreeing with their choices) there were a couple of twists I felt less comfortable with. And yet those twists played perfectly into the ending.
This is Ms Edwards’s first novel, and it invites you to think about chance and choice: a quietly thoughtful novel about individual identity, parenthood and the importance of love.
Did I enjoy it? Yes, mostly.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
July 26, 2024
This is a moving story about two young women who, in many ways, could not be more different - at least in terms of their backgrounds and opportunities.
Laurie is essentially going to university at the behest of her father, who is a Marxist professor. Her life has been defined by a childhood characterized by his very strong views on politics, protest and privilege.
Ava has experienced life at the other end of the spectrum, raised by a father who lives in a trailer park and struggles with a debilitating illness. Despite this, he has given her a life that is plentifully supplied with love, if not material things.
For Ava, university provides the opportunity to escape from a life shaped by the abandonment of her mother and an environment of poverty and limitations. It is a chance to bury her past and start over.
What the two have in common though, are some very important things: absent mothers and being raised by their fathers who have loved them deeply.
The story examines issues such as class, privilege, parenting, family, and many of the things that humans almost universally care about. The protagonists are both relatable and interesting characters. The book is well narrated and well worth checking out. It gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Laurie is essentially going to university at the behest of her father, who is a Marxist professor. Her life has been defined by a childhood characterized by his very strong views on politics, protest and privilege.
Ava has experienced life at the other end of the spectrum, raised by a father who lives in a trailer park and struggles with a debilitating illness. Despite this, he has given her a life that is plentifully supplied with love, if not material things.
For Ava, university provides the opportunity to escape from a life shaped by the abandonment of her mother and an environment of poverty and limitations. It is a chance to bury her past and start over.
What the two have in common though, are some very important things: absent mothers and being raised by their fathers who have loved them deeply.
The story examines issues such as class, privilege, parenting, family, and many of the things that humans almost universally care about. The protagonists are both relatable and interesting characters. The book is well narrated and well worth checking out. It gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
August 3, 2024
Ava sees heading to university in the city as the opportunity to escape a poverty-stricken upbringing; Laurie sees it as something she has to do due to her father's expectations. The two women could not be any more different, yet their lives become intertwined in ways they never could've expected.
The story is so interesting on so many levels, and it covers many issues and topics, which I found really interesting. There is something so intriguing in seeing everything being approached in the two different point of views and the impact their backgrounds have on it all. It took me a while to fully get into the story, but once I did, I had such a great time with it. Both characters were very likable in their own ways and I rooted for them the whole time. I also really loved the supporting cast of characters that surrounded the main ones; I found them to be such a joyful addition to the story and they were such a really needed source of humor and lightness, considering how heavy some of the topics discussed are.
I listened to the audiobook for this one and I had so much fun with it! I genuinely loved it, the narrator did such a great job and it really kept me invested the whole time,
Many thanks to W.F. Howes Ltd & NetGalley for providing me with the ALC. All opinions are my own.
The story is so interesting on so many levels, and it covers many issues and topics, which I found really interesting. There is something so intriguing in seeing everything being approached in the two different point of views and the impact their backgrounds have on it all. It took me a while to fully get into the story, but once I did, I had such a great time with it. Both characters were very likable in their own ways and I rooted for them the whole time. I also really loved the supporting cast of characters that surrounded the main ones; I found them to be such a joyful addition to the story and they were such a really needed source of humor and lightness, considering how heavy some of the topics discussed are.
I listened to the audiobook for this one and I had so much fun with it! I genuinely loved it, the narrator did such a great job and it really kept me invested the whole time,
Many thanks to W.F. Howes Ltd & NetGalley for providing me with the ALC. All opinions are my own.
July 13, 2024
I really enjoyed this - but I'm not sure I can tell you why. Even with a couple of days to mull it over, I'm not sure I've got the eloquence to explain it.
This book is literally what it says its about - Two Daughters, raised on opposite sides of the world. Ava and Laurie don't know each other. They have alternating chapters and as we went on, part of the compelling nature of this book is trying to work out how their lives will intersect. I got it wrong so many times.
Their lives are completely different - but are they? Both are raised by single fathers. Both are looking for their way out of their stifling lives. Ava to university, Laurie wants to travel. But life never goes as planned, and to say anything else would be a spoiler!
I had trouble putting this book down. At the end of each chapter I wanted to go a bit further into the story, into the characters, into this shimmering element of mystery. I felt like I was watching both girls' lives unfold peeking through my fingers. I wanted them both to make good choices! But there's no book if that happens.
It's compelling, it's well written, it kept hooking me in and dragging me along in the best way. I couldn't get enough. I will look forward to more from Alison Edwards!
This book is literally what it says its about - Two Daughters, raised on opposite sides of the world. Ava and Laurie don't know each other. They have alternating chapters and as we went on, part of the compelling nature of this book is trying to work out how their lives will intersect. I got it wrong so many times.
Their lives are completely different - but are they? Both are raised by single fathers. Both are looking for their way out of their stifling lives. Ava to university, Laurie wants to travel. But life never goes as planned, and to say anything else would be a spoiler!
I had trouble putting this book down. At the end of each chapter I wanted to go a bit further into the story, into the characters, into this shimmering element of mystery. I felt like I was watching both girls' lives unfold peeking through my fingers. I wanted them both to make good choices! But there's no book if that happens.
It's compelling, it's well written, it kept hooking me in and dragging me along in the best way. I couldn't get enough. I will look forward to more from Alison Edwards!
July 7, 2024
Two Daughters by Alison Edwards
So I was very lucky to win this not quite released novel thanks to Betterreading. Set in both Australia and England, around about 2010, the features two very different women, Ava and Laurie. Both girls have an extremely close relationship to the parent who raised them, for both their Father. The exploration (told over a few years), of the connection with Ava and Laurie and their Dads, was the favourite part of the book for me. But there were so many other good things about the story. Each woman is feisty, they are educated and aware and intelligent. Both attract supportive, kind and caring best friends. Lots of topics are explored including single parenting, chronic disease, class system, pregnancy, death, sexuality, abortion and tertiary education. Despite the topics it is not a heavy read but an enjoyable one that flies past. We see the women make questionable, good and bad decisions and the consequences of all. A fabulous debut novel that I really enjoyed.
So I was very lucky to win this not quite released novel thanks to Betterreading. Set in both Australia and England, around about 2010, the features two very different women, Ava and Laurie. Both girls have an extremely close relationship to the parent who raised them, for both their Father. The exploration (told over a few years), of the connection with Ava and Laurie and their Dads, was the favourite part of the book for me. But there were so many other good things about the story. Each woman is feisty, they are educated and aware and intelligent. Both attract supportive, kind and caring best friends. Lots of topics are explored including single parenting, chronic disease, class system, pregnancy, death, sexuality, abortion and tertiary education. Despite the topics it is not a heavy read but an enjoyable one that flies past. We see the women make questionable, good and bad decisions and the consequences of all. A fabulous debut novel that I really enjoyed.
July 16, 2024
Received as part of Better Reading Preview's read and review. My review is below:
Two Daughters by Alison Edwards is an intriguing debut novel that weaves around the very disparate lives of the two main characters from the title. They are on different continents, leading very different lives when we meet them, the only commonality is the death of their mothers at an early point in their lives and being raised by a single parent father.
I enjoyed trying to predict the how, when and why the two would meet as the novel worked it’s way through themes of relationships, loyalty, body autonomy, parenting, education, inequality and capitalism. The storyline had historical fiction elements but covered recent history as well as looking further into the past. The settings of coastal rural Australia and Cambridge University were equally diverse and compelling.
An ending that has resolution but without the expected ‘neat and tidy bow’ made this book even more appealing to me as a reader. I look forward to more from this author in the future.
Two Daughters by Alison Edwards is an intriguing debut novel that weaves around the very disparate lives of the two main characters from the title. They are on different continents, leading very different lives when we meet them, the only commonality is the death of their mothers at an early point in their lives and being raised by a single parent father.
I enjoyed trying to predict the how, when and why the two would meet as the novel worked it’s way through themes of relationships, loyalty, body autonomy, parenting, education, inequality and capitalism. The storyline had historical fiction elements but covered recent history as well as looking further into the past. The settings of coastal rural Australia and Cambridge University were equally diverse and compelling.
An ending that has resolution but without the expected ‘neat and tidy bow’ made this book even more appealing to me as a reader. I look forward to more from this author in the future.
July 24, 2024
I was hopeful with this book and wanted to love it, given that part of it was set in Australia. But I have to say, I struggled with this novel, from start to finish.
Maybe it was the depressing setting in which we first meet Ava, and although Laurie started off as someone interesting, I quickly found my interest waning for the two of them.
I was a good ¾ of the way through the book before I could see any sort of connection between the two girls and personally I thought it was a real stretch when this ‘plot twist’ was revealed. Couple this with the fact that it was becoming more and more obvious who Laurie’s real father was, instead of keeping me on the edge of my seat, this book had me leaning right back into a horizontal position struggling to keep my eyes open and preparing for a snooze.
The most interesting character, May, needed more plot time as well – she at least could have had an interesting backstory and was quite funny, as were Laurie’s friends Anil and Del.
I wish I had more positive things to say, but I did not enjoy this book.
Maybe it was the depressing setting in which we first meet Ava, and although Laurie started off as someone interesting, I quickly found my interest waning for the two of them.
I was a good ¾ of the way through the book before I could see any sort of connection between the two girls and personally I thought it was a real stretch when this ‘plot twist’ was revealed. Couple this with the fact that it was becoming more and more obvious who Laurie’s real father was, instead of keeping me on the edge of my seat, this book had me leaning right back into a horizontal position struggling to keep my eyes open and preparing for a snooze.
The most interesting character, May, needed more plot time as well – she at least could have had an interesting backstory and was quite funny, as were Laurie’s friends Anil and Del.
I wish I had more positive things to say, but I did not enjoy this book.
January 4, 2025
This was my train travel read that I was fully absorbed by once I got in the flow.
The reader is introduced to Ava in a small coastal town in Australia, daughter of an impoverished activist father.
And Laurie, a somewhat aimless daughter of an English academic.
The majority of the storyline centres on campus life in Cambridge (Cambridge is not cited, but it is clear that is where it is set).
The chapters alternate as the reader receives updates on these two different lives and a series of connections. It is well paced, has snappy dialogue and well drawn characters.
My only quibble was the summing up at the end, in the final chapters, as it seemed a bit of a let down after all that had gone before. Perhaps I wanted both Ava and Laurie to rise up more in their own right - rather than the women being known only as daughters, mothers and wives.
The reader is introduced to Ava in a small coastal town in Australia, daughter of an impoverished activist father.
And Laurie, a somewhat aimless daughter of an English academic.
The majority of the storyline centres on campus life in Cambridge (Cambridge is not cited, but it is clear that is where it is set).
The chapters alternate as the reader receives updates on these two different lives and a series of connections. It is well paced, has snappy dialogue and well drawn characters.
My only quibble was the summing up at the end, in the final chapters, as it seemed a bit of a let down after all that had gone before. Perhaps I wanted both Ava and Laurie to rise up more in their own right - rather than the women being known only as daughters, mothers and wives.
August 29, 2024
I really enjoyed Alison Edwards' Two Daughters, an interlinked story about two very different women from opposite ends of the globe who are unknowingly linked through a long kept secret. I enjoyed the contrast between the wild south coast of NSW and the historical Cambridge. However, my favourite part of this book is the lively and quirky cast of characters, chief among them Ava's friend May, never afraid to speak her mind, and Laurie's uni mates Anil and Del, who are delightfully smitten by Laurie's impending arrival. The grounding in actual events also lends an element of authenticity and a little history lesson to boot! I would highly recommend Alison Edwards' Two Daughters. Thanks to Beauty and Lace for the ARC.
July 21, 2024
A well-written and interesting account of two women on different continents with hugely different socio-economic backgrounds. The only thing they have in common when we first encounter the two young women is that they have both been raised by their fathers.
The book develops the characters of each of the women through exploring the themes of education, inequality, relationships, capitalism, parenting, friendship and loss and the intrigue lies in how the women will finally connect.
A great debut book from the author and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
I am grateful to NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy of this very well narrated audiobook.
The book develops the characters of each of the women through exploring the themes of education, inequality, relationships, capitalism, parenting, friendship and loss and the intrigue lies in how the women will finally connect.
A great debut book from the author and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
I am grateful to NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy of this very well narrated audiobook.
July 26, 2024
I downloaded this audiobook from NetGalley and listened to it while doing some admin.
It’s the first campus novel I’ve read that engages with the 2010 student protests, and I really enjoyed that aspect of it, having lived through the rise in fees and been horrified by the decline in working class entrants to university as a result.
I also really enjoyed the way the two main characters’ lives ran parallel to each other in many ways, allowing the author to examine their relationships with their parents.
Altogether a really great contribution to the genre. I loved it.
Three Word Review: 21C campus novel.
It’s the first campus novel I’ve read that engages with the 2010 student protests, and I really enjoyed that aspect of it, having lived through the rise in fees and been horrified by the decline in working class entrants to university as a result.
I also really enjoyed the way the two main characters’ lives ran parallel to each other in many ways, allowing the author to examine their relationships with their parents.
Altogether a really great contribution to the genre. I loved it.
Three Word Review: 21C campus novel.
August 29, 2024
Many thanks to Beauty and Lace for my copy of Two Daughters to read.
This book covers two completely different girls lives.
Ava, starts out life in poverty in Australia until she ends up at Cambridge University where her life turned upside down.
Laurie, has been trying to avoid going to university as it isn’t for her but her father, Eric, is a Cambridge lifer.
The one thing Ava and Laurie have in common is they both lost their mothers while they were young and were raised by their fathers.
Their paths cross as the story unfolds and there is a lot of different subjects throughout this book. Parenting, family and love regardless of circumstances.
Great book for a debut.
This book covers two completely different girls lives.
Ava, starts out life in poverty in Australia until she ends up at Cambridge University where her life turned upside down.
Laurie, has been trying to avoid going to university as it isn’t for her but her father, Eric, is a Cambridge lifer.
The one thing Ava and Laurie have in common is they both lost their mothers while they were young and were raised by their fathers.
Their paths cross as the story unfolds and there is a lot of different subjects throughout this book. Parenting, family and love regardless of circumstances.
Great book for a debut.
September 10, 2024
Laurie and Ava on two separate continents and seemingly leading unrelated lives in the early part of this book. Ava, born in Australia to a single Dad, living with MS, and being raised in a caravan park. Laurie also being raised by a single Dad, but in England and with a lot more privilege.
How did these two characters' lives become intertwined? An academic relationship between Laurie's father and Ava is the beginning of the interwine, and it goes from there.
A book I became quite invested in and enjoyed but feel like the end of the book flagged a little.
Listened as an audiobook.
3.5 stars
How did these two characters' lives become intertwined? An academic relationship between Laurie's father and Ava is the beginning of the interwine, and it goes from there.
A book I became quite invested in and enjoyed but feel like the end of the book flagged a little.
Listened as an audiobook.
3.5 stars
July 5, 2024
This book gives a glimpse into two sets of lives and reveals how small and large decisions can alter life’s direction so easily and profoundly. Settings include the academic world of Cambridge and city life as well as rural Australia and shows great contrasts here. Themes of motherhood, friendship, family dynamics, marriage and politics all make for complex situations and emotions. The two main characters Ava and Laurie are navigating all of this and in an interesting twist become part of each others world.
July 31, 2024
I enjoyed this one, both Laurie and Ava were relatable, likeable characters.
On completely different paths, I enjoyed following their lives, and their friends , and small families.
I was however always waiting for the part when their lives crossed.
A nice easy listen that got me through dull work commute.
On completely different paths, I enjoyed following their lives, and their friends , and small families.
I was however always waiting for the part when their lives crossed.
A nice easy listen that got me through dull work commute.
August 20, 2024
I loved this book, the story of two very different women in two very different families. One on the south coast of NSW, the other in the UK university city of Cambridge. Their stories, of family, love and connection, were wonderfully portrayed, especially when their lives accidentally merged. Well worth the read.
August 29, 2024
Firstly, what a beautiful cover! Really unique but eye catching. I listened to the audiobook and at first I didn’t think I’d enjoy this one. Two women following completely different paths find their lives intertwined in ways they never expected. Their choices in life take them on a journey of self discovery, family and friendship. I ended up really enjoying this.
November 6, 2024
3.5 upped to 4 stars. A great debut novel, I loved the south coast setting,, knowing it well. The linking of the two women, two very different daughters was interesting. I lost a bit of interest around the UK politics, though it was well described for those not British. I look forward to more from Alison Edwards.
May 12, 2025
I’ve been trying to get through this book for at least two months, mostly avoiding it because I haven’t personally found that the story makes me want to turn the pages. I can see from other reviews that plenty of people love it!!! I’m 1/3 of the way through and have decided to put it down.. Might try it again another time as I hate not giving a book a chance, but I’m struggling with this one.
September 1, 2024
an ok read, a bit predictable while also being unrealistic. but that may have been the point audiobook
September 8, 2024
Cass
I enjoyed Two Daughters by Alison Edwards . I did find it a little hard to get into but glad I kept reading and finished the book !
I enjoyed Two Daughters by Alison Edwards . I did find it a little hard to get into but glad I kept reading and finished the book !
September 11, 2024
I zoned out so much listening to the audiobook. Not sure if it was me or the books fault but it didn't hold my attention well.
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