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The Michaelmas Daisy
'...eloquent prose, weaving together emotions and situations that felt intensely real...' - Alis Page
The Michaelmas Daisy: a contemporary story of loneliness, loyalty, love, finding new friends, and hope.
Beverley may be dead, but that doesn’t make it any easier to let go. She watches over her husband and daughter, sharing their pain, laughter, fears and dreams. As she watches, memories of her own life and love for her husband bring comfort and tears in equal measure.
Her daughter, Philippa (58, divorced), looks after her ailing father. She does so willingly, but caring for him 24/7 takes great patience and compassion, and such devotion is isolating.
Into their home comes Kaska (39). She provides respite care, brings kindness and energy, and helps Philippa realise it’s ok to still want some life of her own.
As her father’s condition worsens, Philippa’s dedication is tested to the full and difficult choices are necessary.
The Michaelmas Daisy: written in honour of those in need of care, and those who care for them.
'...a great story written with empathy and heart...' - Colleen MacMahon
'...beautifully written and shows what is both sacrificed and gained in a carer's role...' - Chloe Mcrae
'...a story that will make you appreciate everyone you love and every little piece of joy we have each day...' - Georgia Parsisson
The Michaelmas Daisy: a contemporary story of loneliness, loyalty, love, finding new friends, and hope.
Beverley may be dead, but that doesn’t make it any easier to let go. She watches over her husband and daughter, sharing their pain, laughter, fears and dreams. As she watches, memories of her own life and love for her husband bring comfort and tears in equal measure.
Her daughter, Philippa (58, divorced), looks after her ailing father. She does so willingly, but caring for him 24/7 takes great patience and compassion, and such devotion is isolating.
Into their home comes Kaska (39). She provides respite care, brings kindness and energy, and helps Philippa realise it’s ok to still want some life of her own.
As her father’s condition worsens, Philippa’s dedication is tested to the full and difficult choices are necessary.
The Michaelmas Daisy: written in honour of those in need of care, and those who care for them.
'...a great story written with empathy and heart...' - Colleen MacMahon
'...beautifully written and shows what is both sacrificed and gained in a carer's role...' - Chloe Mcrae
'...a story that will make you appreciate everyone you love and every little piece of joy we have each day...' - Georgia Parsisson
- GenresFiction
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2024
4 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Paul Marriner
9 books21 followersPaul grew up in a west London suburb and now lives in Berkshire. Married with two children, he is passionate about music, sport and, most of all, writing, on which he now concentrates full-time. Paul has written six novels and a collection of short stories and his primary literary ambition is that you enjoy reading them while he is hard at work on the next one (but still finding time to play drums).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 13, 2025
In a Nutshell: A contemporary fiction with an element of magical realism. Didn’t like the main narrator but the other characters make up for her judgemental attitude. Themes of found family and caregiving explored well. A good option for those looking for a realistic story narrated through otherworldly eyes.
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Plot Preview:
Bookish Yays:
🌼 Philippa – the best character in the book. I felt so sorry for her in the first half and happy as she learnt to pay attention to her own emotional needs as well. Her attitude was amazing!
🌼 As the sole caretaker of her dependent dad, Philippa’s track shows us the trials and tribulations of caregiving without external help. Caregivers rarely get the physical and emotional support they need.
🌼 The bond between Philippa and her dad Kevin. Every “I know who you are” uttered by Kevin got me to tear up. My dad is in a similar boat, though his situation isn't as bad as Kevin’s yet. As I too am my father’s pet, the love between this fictional father-daughter pair touched me greatly.
🌼 The portrayal of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Very accurate and hence, very heartbreaking. Might be triggering to some as it doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of the illness.
🌼 Kaska – a ray of sunshine in this otherwise melancholy book. Her character brings the necessary emotional balance to this story.
🌼 The found family trope, used well without seeming forced.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🌹 Beverley’s memories of the past in between her observations of the present. While I liked how her anecdotes offered us a great insight into her lived life, I also felt like it took away from the present narrative. In some scenes, her reminiscences happen in between a serious situation for Philippa, which broke the intensity.
🌹 The ending. Not exactly where I thought it would go, but quite good for where it stopped. I would have loved an epilogue this time, to see how life continued for the characters.
Bookish Nays:
👻 Beverly as a narrator. Sad that the long-dead character couldn’t infuse my heart with sympathy. Beverley’s narration left me flat. I don’t know whether to attribute this to the infamous British reserve, but her emotions just don't come out strongly. She does make some humorous remarks at times, but the more intense emotions are mostly missing.
👻 Beverley as a character. An even bigger disappointment. Philippa was her own daughter and yet she doesn’t often feel sorry for her situation. When she expressed relief that she wasn’t the one taking care of the debilitated Kenny instead of feeling sorry that her daughter was struggling alone with such difficult work, I found it tough to keep calm. Her comments on Philippa’s weight and physical shape and broken marriage, and on several other topics, were too judgemental. She also keeps passing comments on other characters’ hair styles and outfits and accents – so shallow!
👻 As Beverley is speaking from some kind of afterlife, I would have expected at least a part of her narration to talk about her unnatural situation, like how she moves or what she does when the household is sleeping. But she keeps those details vague throughout. And when she does comment on it, she is inconsistent; sometimes, she can’t see things from her spot, and sometimes, she can move wherever she wants. She can't feel the weather, but this doesn’t stop her from remarking things like it “looks warm” or “looks cold”. As a result of this approach, most of the book doesn’t even sound like it is being narrated to us by a soul/spirit.
(Dang! Three nays are about Beverley! 😬)
👻 Please let’s not have scenes where a dog is given chocolates. Chocolates are toxic to canines! Some unaware readers might misunderstand such inclusions and start giving chocolates to their own dogs.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 7 hrs 25 min, is narrated by Colleen MacMahon. She does a pretty good job, though it took me some time to get used to her voice. As I didn’t like Beverley and the story was in her first-person POV, my enjoyment of the narration was obviously somewhat impaired. But as the story is mostly linear except when Beverley goes into nostalgia mode, the audiobook is a good way of trying this novel.
Overall, I expected this story to impact me more emotionally. As I too am currently a caregiver, I felt Philippa’s struggles in every sense of the word. But Beverley didn’t endear herself to me through her mostly detached narration. It should be quite evident that Beverley is the main reason my rating isn't higher. I might have liked the book better if Beverley’s first-person POV sounded more like a soul’s voice than like an old lady peeking into her neighbour’s house. I would also have loved to have heard Philippa’s POV; it would have held so much more depth!
That said, the book is still worth a read for all the characters except for Beverley. Through them, we get several life lessons relevant to most of us, caregivers or not.
Recommended to readers of emotional up-lit. Again, note that the content connected to Kevin’s medical issues could be triggering, especially if you are an early-stage dementia sufferer or a caregiver to one.
3.5 stars, rounding down wherever applicable for Beverley.
My thanks to Love Books Tours and author Paul Marriner for providing a complimentary audio copy of “The Michaelmas Daisy”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
2019. Beverley Cooper has been dead since eight years, but she hasn’t yet moved on. She watches over her eighty-nine-year-old widower Kevin as he is struggling through Alzheimer’s and dementia, and her fifty-eight-year-old divorced daughter Philippa as she willingly looks after her ailing father’s needs at the cost of her own requirements. When a new thirty-something caregiver named Kaska enters the household, Phillippa finally acknowledges that it is okay to have some me-time away from her dad. But Kevin’s health isn’t getting better.
The story comes to us in Beverley’s first-person perspective.
Bookish Yays:
🌼 Philippa – the best character in the book. I felt so sorry for her in the first half and happy as she learnt to pay attention to her own emotional needs as well. Her attitude was amazing!
🌼 As the sole caretaker of her dependent dad, Philippa’s track shows us the trials and tribulations of caregiving without external help. Caregivers rarely get the physical and emotional support they need.
🌼 The bond between Philippa and her dad Kevin. Every “I know who you are” uttered by Kevin got me to tear up. My dad is in a similar boat, though his situation isn't as bad as Kevin’s yet. As I too am my father’s pet, the love between this fictional father-daughter pair touched me greatly.
🌼 The portrayal of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Very accurate and hence, very heartbreaking. Might be triggering to some as it doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of the illness.
🌼 Kaska – a ray of sunshine in this otherwise melancholy book. Her character brings the necessary emotional balance to this story.
🌼 The found family trope, used well without seeming forced.
Bookish Mixed Bags:
🌹 Beverley’s memories of the past in between her observations of the present. While I liked how her anecdotes offered us a great insight into her lived life, I also felt like it took away from the present narrative. In some scenes, her reminiscences happen in between a serious situation for Philippa, which broke the intensity.
🌹 The ending. Not exactly where I thought it would go, but quite good for where it stopped. I would have loved an epilogue this time, to see how life continued for the characters.
Bookish Nays:
👻 Beverly as a narrator. Sad that the long-dead character couldn’t infuse my heart with sympathy. Beverley’s narration left me flat. I don’t know whether to attribute this to the infamous British reserve, but her emotions just don't come out strongly. She does make some humorous remarks at times, but the more intense emotions are mostly missing.
👻 Beverley as a character. An even bigger disappointment. Philippa was her own daughter and yet she doesn’t often feel sorry for her situation. When she expressed relief that she wasn’t the one taking care of the debilitated Kenny instead of feeling sorry that her daughter was struggling alone with such difficult work, I found it tough to keep calm. Her comments on Philippa’s weight and physical shape and broken marriage, and on several other topics, were too judgemental. She also keeps passing comments on other characters’ hair styles and outfits and accents – so shallow!
👻 As Beverley is speaking from some kind of afterlife, I would have expected at least a part of her narration to talk about her unnatural situation, like how she moves or what she does when the household is sleeping. But she keeps those details vague throughout. And when she does comment on it, she is inconsistent; sometimes, she can’t see things from her spot, and sometimes, she can move wherever she wants. She can't feel the weather, but this doesn’t stop her from remarking things like it “looks warm” or “looks cold”. As a result of this approach, most of the book doesn’t even sound like it is being narrated to us by a soul/spirit.
(Dang! Three nays are about Beverley! 😬)
👻 Please let’s not have scenes where a dog is given chocolates. Chocolates are toxic to canines! Some unaware readers might misunderstand such inclusions and start giving chocolates to their own dogs.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 7 hrs 25 min, is narrated by Colleen MacMahon. She does a pretty good job, though it took me some time to get used to her voice. As I didn’t like Beverley and the story was in her first-person POV, my enjoyment of the narration was obviously somewhat impaired. But as the story is mostly linear except when Beverley goes into nostalgia mode, the audiobook is a good way of trying this novel.
Overall, I expected this story to impact me more emotionally. As I too am currently a caregiver, I felt Philippa’s struggles in every sense of the word. But Beverley didn’t endear herself to me through her mostly detached narration. It should be quite evident that Beverley is the main reason my rating isn't higher. I might have liked the book better if Beverley’s first-person POV sounded more like a soul’s voice than like an old lady peeking into her neighbour’s house. I would also have loved to have heard Philippa’s POV; it would have held so much more depth!
That said, the book is still worth a read for all the characters except for Beverley. Through them, we get several life lessons relevant to most of us, caregivers or not.
Recommended to readers of emotional up-lit. Again, note that the content connected to Kevin’s medical issues could be triggering, especially if you are an early-stage dementia sufferer or a caregiver to one.
3.5 stars, rounding down wherever applicable for Beverley.
My thanks to Love Books Tours and author Paul Marriner for providing a complimentary audio copy of “The Michaelmas Daisy”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
October 12, 2024
I knew this would be an emotional read, and it definitely tugged at my heartstrings. Well, that's an understatement, I sobbed my heart out.
My mother in law had a stroke last year, and so a lot of the hurt and pain came roaring back over the last few chapters, Philippa had to make unenviable decisions that unless you've been there, you can't even begin to imagine.
I loved how the story was told from Beverlys point of view. It was a really interesting way of doing it.
I thought all of the characters were done wonderfully, I loved their personalities and relationships. All of the little ditties being sung, Kaska's sweet questions when not understanding the language, the care and warmth for others, and even virtual strangers.
There are tough themes to this, with some tough topics addressed such as divorce, miscarriage and death. They are all done in a way honouring the innately emotional journey that they bring.
I'd have perhaps liked an epilogue to know how Philippa got on. That's just my personal preference. I get so invested in people, and I want to know what becomes of them. However, it also ended beautifully, and there's no requirement for it.
This is an absolutely beautiful read that I hope many enjoy and take comfort from.
My mother in law had a stroke last year, and so a lot of the hurt and pain came roaring back over the last few chapters, Philippa had to make unenviable decisions that unless you've been there, you can't even begin to imagine.
I loved how the story was told from Beverlys point of view. It was a really interesting way of doing it.
I thought all of the characters were done wonderfully, I loved their personalities and relationships. All of the little ditties being sung, Kaska's sweet questions when not understanding the language, the care and warmth for others, and even virtual strangers.
There are tough themes to this, with some tough topics addressed such as divorce, miscarriage and death. They are all done in a way honouring the innately emotional journey that they bring.
I'd have perhaps liked an epilogue to know how Philippa got on. That's just my personal preference. I get so invested in people, and I want to know what becomes of them. However, it also ended beautifully, and there's no requirement for it.
This is an absolutely beautiful read that I hope many enjoy and take comfort from.
November 2, 2024
A wholesome and entertaining book with characters as real as being in the same room as one.
How brave of Paul Marriner to choose such a difficult subject in which to craft his latest creation. Care in the home in our modern society- with its expense, impositions and demands upon family members is considered a taboo topic by so many authors.
Yet he embraces its circumstances and its effects upon families and carers in an easy reading prose that crafts facts in with his fiction to create a novel borne out of hardship that is principally a love story, where existing love thrives and continues todo so in acute adversity, while the tender shoots of new love appear from among these circumstances.
I have long admired Paul Marriner’s writings and wondered how he would treat such a subject that is so widespread in our modern society, yet one that few wish to consider or read about. I was not disappointed. Once I started the read, it became my day's main activity.
Paul has balanced well the realities of the present-day system of care in UK society. Lesser authors would have been more abrasive. Paul strikes a balanced view and leaves readers like me to jump out of the chair and hurl condemnations at the Health Service executive whose function appears to be nothing more than to have the family (ie daughter Phillipa) to devote her life to the care of her father in the family home. The only practical ( read wholesome) choice available to the family. The other two choices coming at enormous cost. Paul deals with this iniquity factually and balanced without favour to one side or another.
Readers living in the UK at present, can learn much about what they may be faced with in the future management of elderly relatives.
The author skilfully weaves facts into his fiction without bias to create, not a tale of woe and entrapment- but a love story: one of long standing and another that just might be in the early stages of its development. Brilliant!
How brave of Paul Marriner to choose such a difficult subject in which to craft his latest creation. Care in the home in our modern society- with its expense, impositions and demands upon family members is considered a taboo topic by so many authors.
Yet he embraces its circumstances and its effects upon families and carers in an easy reading prose that crafts facts in with his fiction to create a novel borne out of hardship that is principally a love story, where existing love thrives and continues todo so in acute adversity, while the tender shoots of new love appear from among these circumstances.
I have long admired Paul Marriner’s writings and wondered how he would treat such a subject that is so widespread in our modern society, yet one that few wish to consider or read about. I was not disappointed. Once I started the read, it became my day's main activity.
Paul has balanced well the realities of the present-day system of care in UK society. Lesser authors would have been more abrasive. Paul strikes a balanced view and leaves readers like me to jump out of the chair and hurl condemnations at the Health Service executive whose function appears to be nothing more than to have the family (ie daughter Phillipa) to devote her life to the care of her father in the family home. The only practical ( read wholesome) choice available to the family. The other two choices coming at enormous cost. Paul deals with this iniquity factually and balanced without favour to one side or another.
Readers living in the UK at present, can learn much about what they may be faced with in the future management of elderly relatives.
The author skilfully weaves facts into his fiction without bias to create, not a tale of woe and entrapment- but a love story: one of long standing and another that just might be in the early stages of its development. Brilliant!
August 20, 2025
Like many people my age, I am now at a stage in my life where I find myself providing some care to an elderly parent. I was interested in listening to this book as it seemed that I would have some common ground with the characters. In some ways I did, but in others, Philippa’s experiences are quite different from my own. This is a point the author makes in his note at the end of the book. Everybody’s experience of caring or needing care is different and this book explores just one aspect.
I must admit that when I first started, I thought this was going to be too difficult to listen to. Philippa attends to a lot of her father’s personal care needs and although this has become routine to her, it was quite uncomfortable to listen to. However, this just really sets the scene about what life is like for Philippa, very matter-of-fact, just what needs to be done.
My heart went out to both Philippa and her dad Kenny. Philippa is so dedicated to her dad and does so much for him, providing care and love and determination to do the best she can for him. However, it’s relentless and wearying and her life is rather limited because of her father’s needs. I felt for Kenny too as he struggled to remember the simplest things from day to day and often forgot that his wife had died or that Philippa was his daughter. One thing that I found particularly poignant was that he could often remember songs or rhymes and sing along to them with his daughter. My father-in-law had Alzheimer’s and when he was unable to communicate much, music was always something that somehow spoke to him and helped create a connection.
The story is narrated by Beverley, Kenny’s late wife, and this choice for a narrator works so well. Through her we find out about Kenny’s younger life, about the joys and sorrows they had in their marriage and about her continuing love and concern for her daughter. The actual narrator of the audiobook, Colleen MacMahon, was excellent, really capturing the emotions of the various characters.
When Kenny needs more help than Philippa can provide and she needs some respite, into their lives comes the wonderful Kaska. Kaska is just what you would want a carer to be. She’s compassionate and understanding and provides emotional support as well as some much needed time off to Philippa. I enjoyed reading about her gentle ways with Kenny, the way she respected him while also making sure he was well cared for.
The Michaelmas Daisy is a wonderful tribute to carers whether that’s family members or paid staff. It’s a very moving story which, although it has its poignant moments, is also full of love and hope.
I must admit that when I first started, I thought this was going to be too difficult to listen to. Philippa attends to a lot of her father’s personal care needs and although this has become routine to her, it was quite uncomfortable to listen to. However, this just really sets the scene about what life is like for Philippa, very matter-of-fact, just what needs to be done.
My heart went out to both Philippa and her dad Kenny. Philippa is so dedicated to her dad and does so much for him, providing care and love and determination to do the best she can for him. However, it’s relentless and wearying and her life is rather limited because of her father’s needs. I felt for Kenny too as he struggled to remember the simplest things from day to day and often forgot that his wife had died or that Philippa was his daughter. One thing that I found particularly poignant was that he could often remember songs or rhymes and sing along to them with his daughter. My father-in-law had Alzheimer’s and when he was unable to communicate much, music was always something that somehow spoke to him and helped create a connection.
The story is narrated by Beverley, Kenny’s late wife, and this choice for a narrator works so well. Through her we find out about Kenny’s younger life, about the joys and sorrows they had in their marriage and about her continuing love and concern for her daughter. The actual narrator of the audiobook, Colleen MacMahon, was excellent, really capturing the emotions of the various characters.
When Kenny needs more help than Philippa can provide and she needs some respite, into their lives comes the wonderful Kaska. Kaska is just what you would want a carer to be. She’s compassionate and understanding and provides emotional support as well as some much needed time off to Philippa. I enjoyed reading about her gentle ways with Kenny, the way she respected him while also making sure he was well cared for.
The Michaelmas Daisy is a wonderful tribute to carers whether that’s family members or paid staff. It’s a very moving story which, although it has its poignant moments, is also full of love and hope.
January 18, 2025
This is such a beautifully written book. It really captures the reality of caring for elderly relatives. I cared for both my parents before they died and this story transported me back to those difficult days.
The story is told from the POV of Beverly who has died, but promised to watch over her family, and so she does. This allows us to capture Beverly's emotions of seeing her only child care for the man she loves. Seeing her husband's decline and the pressure this puts on their daughter. But it also shows the love between the family members. I loved how the author used music and songs between father and daughter to show the depth of their relationship despite the circumstances.
The story does not shy away from the physical and emotional challenges of caring for a sick or elderly relative. It also explores the difficult choices that sometimes need to be made and the guilt that can be felt along the way. It is fundamentally about love and sacrifice.
I thought this was done so well and it was a refreshing take on this theme.
The story is told from the POV of Beverly who has died, but promised to watch over her family, and so she does. This allows us to capture Beverly's emotions of seeing her only child care for the man she loves. Seeing her husband's decline and the pressure this puts on their daughter. But it also shows the love between the family members. I loved how the author used music and songs between father and daughter to show the depth of their relationship despite the circumstances.
The story does not shy away from the physical and emotional challenges of caring for a sick or elderly relative. It also explores the difficult choices that sometimes need to be made and the guilt that can be felt along the way. It is fundamentally about love and sacrifice.
I thought this was done so well and it was a refreshing take on this theme.
November 19, 2024
This was just the loveliest little book. Told from the point of view of the wife/mother, Beverley, who has been dead for the last eight years, she watches over her daughter Philippa, who is 58, and her ailing father (Beverley’s husband) whose health deteriorates daily. He suffers from Alzheimer’s and Philippa is his full-time carer. Philippa has given up everything to take care of him and as she slowly accepts the help of others, she starts to live a little again.
I loved the way this story was written, different from my normal reads, and the characters really came to life. I would imagine (aside from the dead watching over the family) this is a real-life situation for many. 5⭐️
Description
Beverley may be dead, but that doesn’t make it any easier to let go. She watches over her husband and daughter, sharing their pain, laughter, fears and dreams. As she watches, memories of her own life and love for her husband bring comfort and tears in equal measure.
Her daughter, Philippa (58, divorced), looks after her ailing father. She does so willingly, but caring for him 24/7 takes great patience and compassion, and such devotion is isolating.
Into their home comes Kaska (39). She provides respite care, brings kindness and energy, and helps Philippa realise it’s ok to still want some life of her own.
As her father’s condition worsens, Philippa’s dedication is tested to the full and difficult choices are necessary.
The Michaelmas Daisy: written in honour of those in need of care, and those who care for them.
I loved the way this story was written, different from my normal reads, and the characters really came to life. I would imagine (aside from the dead watching over the family) this is a real-life situation for many. 5⭐️
Description
Beverley may be dead, but that doesn’t make it any easier to let go. She watches over her husband and daughter, sharing their pain, laughter, fears and dreams. As she watches, memories of her own life and love for her husband bring comfort and tears in equal measure.
Her daughter, Philippa (58, divorced), looks after her ailing father. She does so willingly, but caring for him 24/7 takes great patience and compassion, and such devotion is isolating.
Into their home comes Kaska (39). She provides respite care, brings kindness and energy, and helps Philippa realise it’s ok to still want some life of her own.
As her father’s condition worsens, Philippa’s dedication is tested to the full and difficult choices are necessary.
The Michaelmas Daisy: written in honour of those in need of care, and those who care for them.
December 7, 2024
Paul Marriner nails it again!
In The Michaelmas Daisy, through the voice of fifty-nine year old Philippa's long-dead Mum, who literally watches her two most beloved people every minute of every day, the author effortlessly blends the love story of Philippa's parents with the day-to-day, seemingly endless, and difficult, routine of Phillipa's caring for a father who is very disabled and has gradually worsening dementia.
Philippa's world began to shrink alongside her precious father's memories...but they both still sing the same old songs again and again, and her father never forgets the poem he loved to recite for his precious wife.
Then one day Philippa agrees, at great risk to her carefully balanced budget, to just a couple of hours of respite care...and into their world walks what could be the start of something better.
There can never be a perfect happy ending in a tale like this but Paul has embedded love, hope and friendship throughout his story and his brilliantly realised characters once again.
A must read!
In The Michaelmas Daisy, through the voice of fifty-nine year old Philippa's long-dead Mum, who literally watches her two most beloved people every minute of every day, the author effortlessly blends the love story of Philippa's parents with the day-to-day, seemingly endless, and difficult, routine of Phillipa's caring for a father who is very disabled and has gradually worsening dementia.
Philippa's world began to shrink alongside her precious father's memories...but they both still sing the same old songs again and again, and her father never forgets the poem he loved to recite for his precious wife.
Then one day Philippa agrees, at great risk to her carefully balanced budget, to just a couple of hours of respite care...and into their world walks what could be the start of something better.
There can never be a perfect happy ending in a tale like this but Paul has embedded love, hope and friendship throughout his story and his brilliantly realised characters once again.
A must read!
November 29, 2024
The Michaelmas Daisy by Paul Marriner
Read Along
REVIEW
'The Michaelmas Daisy' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Paul discusses Bereavement, Dementia and Alzheimer's.
Well done and Thank You to Paul Marriner for a hugely successful and stunning read!! This book is very smoothly written with vivid descriptions which really help you see what's going on around you as well as the storyline. The blurb and the cover compliment the novel perfectly. The illustrations on the paperback cover are beautiful.
OMG!!!!! I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this absolutely addictive and truly unique book!!! Honestly this book has just hit my top 3 books and considering how many books I have read that is an epic success!!! Instead of wasting your time reading this just grab your copy and get lost in this great storyline now. I can promise you won't regret it!! Where on Earth have you been all my life Paul??? I cannot believe that I had never read any of your books before this and am just so pleased that I have rectified that now!! I cannot wait to get stuck in to your previous and future books! Paul's amazing and evocative writing skills really has brought everything to life all throughout this fantastic book dropping you straight into the storyline where you will see, feel and hear everything that the characters are thinking, feeling, seeing and hearing including these absolutely amazing characters that I will not be forgetting for a very long time, if I ever do!!! This book really has been one of the best books I have ever read!!! In this one of a kind book we meet Beverly who actually died 8 years ago but stays and watches over her 58 year old daughter Pippa and her husband Kenny. Pippa has to care for Kenny 24/7 due to his poor health and he has Dementia. Pippa has recently lost her Mum Beverly as well as going through a divorce while also dealing with everything else that life brings from housework to bills, appointments and her own health plus more!! Pippa is offered some respite care hours that is partly paid for and the carer that arrives is 39 year old Kaska. Kaska provides Pippa with some time for herself and they form a beautiful friendship along with Kaska's friend and whose home she lodged in temporarily Raymond and ex-girlfriend and now friend and hairdresser Ruby. Together they provide support, friendship and much more while Pippa helps and looks after Kenny while his health goes downhill and all along with Beverly watching over them. i wont say any more about the storyline as I do not want to spoil it for others but if you want to find out more just grab your copy today. i can guarantee you will not regret it and you may even discover a new favourite author like I have. With an absolutely gorgeous and unforgettable storyline ram packed with emotions, isolation, love, family, dedication, fears, difficult decisions, friendship, heartache, loneliness, care, loyalty, hope, dreams and so, so much more!! It has everything plus even more than you could ever ask for in a beautiful book so what are you waiting for? My Nan and Grandad both suffered with dementia which is a completely heart breaking and cruel illness. This book reminded me so much of them and along with the storyline itself I had tears streaming down my face so make sure you get the tissues at the ready. I have worked as a carer myself and now care for my twin boys who both have autism and it is such a difficult but rewarding job. My heart aches for anyone who cares and loves someone with Dementia as it really is so cruel watching them struggle with so much and losing themselves. Paul has done an absolutely amazing job of putting these emotions in to words that are so difficult to explain. This book truly is an emotional rollercoaster ride of happiness, loneliness, love, heart ache, sadness, joy, hope and more!! It is such a down to Earth and realistic everyday storyline but one filled with emotions that I could see it all play out in front of my eyes. Paul covers a number of sensitive topics such as dementia, loneliness, bereavement, divorce and weaves it all into a beautiful storyline covering each of the topics sensitively whilst also highlighting the difficulties people struggle with each. Paul does an amazing job of creating such realistic characters so we see and feel what they are feeling and doing throughout the storyline while also living their lives along with them. Every single one of the characters are realistic, well developed and strong and I loved them all and would love to meet them again in another of Paul's books. Paul covers a range of relationships from parent and child, carer, friend, ex partners, friends. The fact that Paul genuinely cares about her characters absolutely shines through the book as does the fact that he has done plenty of research or has experience about a variety of topics. It is a pet hate when an author does little or no research into their chosen topics as it then runs the risk of their books being littered with mistakes and spoiling what could otherwise be a very good story but Paul has completely avoided this by doing plenty of research! I genuinely love how she covers such everyday topics portraying family life, caring, social life, friendship and more and creates this intriguing, captivating page turner that I was completely hooked on! When it came to the characters I felt a wide range of emotions and I loved and sympathised with each and every single one of them as they were all going through their own emotional turmoil's while trying to support each other. My heart was breaking for the majority of them. I found myself smiling, shouting, sad and laughing at different moments in this brilliant storyline. There was no way I could finish just one chapter as even though I kept telling myself I would and then go to bed, each chapter ended in a way where I just HAD to know what happened next and before I knew it I had devoured the whole book in one sitting in a few hours!!! The storyline was realistic which I always prefer as it makes it more enjoyable to read when you can see that it is something that could happen. This book is well constructed and was absolutely ram packed with so much going on that you will just fly through the pages!!! It is multi layered with all the fantastic characters backgrounds and personalities coming out and each and every character has their own personalities. It was a very compelling and addictive read!!! I genuinely could not praise this book enough as words just will not give it justice so grab your copy today, you won't regret it!!!! The storyline is absolutely unique having never come across anything like it before and I doubt I will again so a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Paul for this. I have read hundreds and hundreds of books so it is getting so difficult to find a book with a unique storyline but Paul absolutely managed not only that but a storyline I truly believe will stay with me for life!
Clear your schedules, grab the tissues and get ready to get completely sucked into a gorgeous, emotive and beautiful page turner. This book is such a unique and emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions!!
I loved meeting all the characters who are a delightful mix of personalities with intriguing backgrounds and each one was very compelling. I have never met a group of characters like this before and I've never loved a group of fictional characters as much as I did with this gang!!!! The only downfall is that they aren't real which is gutted as I would definitely get along with this gang!!!! I can't remember the last time I laughed so much!!! There was a variety of different characters of all ages and from all walks of life with very different situations and backgrounds all come together in this stunning read. Paul's amazing evocative writing skills really have brought each of these characters to life throughout this book and it is really sad to say Goodbye to them. An amazing group of realistic, strong, and unique characters that I have loved getting to know in this amazing book and that will stay with me for a very long time!!!!
Congratulations Mary on an absolutely stunning successful book, an absolutely brilliant, unique, emotive and thought provoking must read and I cannot wait to get stuck into more of your amazing books!! Welcome to my favourite authors club and here is to your next guaranteed success 🥂!!!!
Overall an absolutely gorgeous, unique page turner filled with emotions and with memorable characters!!!
#TheMichaelmasDaisy #PaulMarriner #Marriner66 #BluescalePublishing #LoveBooksTours #LBTCrew #KellyALacey #Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram #FreeReview #FreeBookReview #LBTLiteraryFiction #LBTReadAlong #ReadAlong #LBTContemporayFiction
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Read Along
REVIEW
'The Michaelmas Daisy' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Paul discusses Bereavement, Dementia and Alzheimer's.
Well done and Thank You to Paul Marriner for a hugely successful and stunning read!! This book is very smoothly written with vivid descriptions which really help you see what's going on around you as well as the storyline. The blurb and the cover compliment the novel perfectly. The illustrations on the paperback cover are beautiful.
OMG!!!!! I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this absolutely addictive and truly unique book!!! Honestly this book has just hit my top 3 books and considering how many books I have read that is an epic success!!! Instead of wasting your time reading this just grab your copy and get lost in this great storyline now. I can promise you won't regret it!! Where on Earth have you been all my life Paul??? I cannot believe that I had never read any of your books before this and am just so pleased that I have rectified that now!! I cannot wait to get stuck in to your previous and future books! Paul's amazing and evocative writing skills really has brought everything to life all throughout this fantastic book dropping you straight into the storyline where you will see, feel and hear everything that the characters are thinking, feeling, seeing and hearing including these absolutely amazing characters that I will not be forgetting for a very long time, if I ever do!!! This book really has been one of the best books I have ever read!!! In this one of a kind book we meet Beverly who actually died 8 years ago but stays and watches over her 58 year old daughter Pippa and her husband Kenny. Pippa has to care for Kenny 24/7 due to his poor health and he has Dementia. Pippa has recently lost her Mum Beverly as well as going through a divorce while also dealing with everything else that life brings from housework to bills, appointments and her own health plus more!! Pippa is offered some respite care hours that is partly paid for and the carer that arrives is 39 year old Kaska. Kaska provides Pippa with some time for herself and they form a beautiful friendship along with Kaska's friend and whose home she lodged in temporarily Raymond and ex-girlfriend and now friend and hairdresser Ruby. Together they provide support, friendship and much more while Pippa helps and looks after Kenny while his health goes downhill and all along with Beverly watching over them. i wont say any more about the storyline as I do not want to spoil it for others but if you want to find out more just grab your copy today. i can guarantee you will not regret it and you may even discover a new favourite author like I have. With an absolutely gorgeous and unforgettable storyline ram packed with emotions, isolation, love, family, dedication, fears, difficult decisions, friendship, heartache, loneliness, care, loyalty, hope, dreams and so, so much more!! It has everything plus even more than you could ever ask for in a beautiful book so what are you waiting for? My Nan and Grandad both suffered with dementia which is a completely heart breaking and cruel illness. This book reminded me so much of them and along with the storyline itself I had tears streaming down my face so make sure you get the tissues at the ready. I have worked as a carer myself and now care for my twin boys who both have autism and it is such a difficult but rewarding job. My heart aches for anyone who cares and loves someone with Dementia as it really is so cruel watching them struggle with so much and losing themselves. Paul has done an absolutely amazing job of putting these emotions in to words that are so difficult to explain. This book truly is an emotional rollercoaster ride of happiness, loneliness, love, heart ache, sadness, joy, hope and more!! It is such a down to Earth and realistic everyday storyline but one filled with emotions that I could see it all play out in front of my eyes. Paul covers a number of sensitive topics such as dementia, loneliness, bereavement, divorce and weaves it all into a beautiful storyline covering each of the topics sensitively whilst also highlighting the difficulties people struggle with each. Paul does an amazing job of creating such realistic characters so we see and feel what they are feeling and doing throughout the storyline while also living their lives along with them. Every single one of the characters are realistic, well developed and strong and I loved them all and would love to meet them again in another of Paul's books. Paul covers a range of relationships from parent and child, carer, friend, ex partners, friends. The fact that Paul genuinely cares about her characters absolutely shines through the book as does the fact that he has done plenty of research or has experience about a variety of topics. It is a pet hate when an author does little or no research into their chosen topics as it then runs the risk of their books being littered with mistakes and spoiling what could otherwise be a very good story but Paul has completely avoided this by doing plenty of research! I genuinely love how she covers such everyday topics portraying family life, caring, social life, friendship and more and creates this intriguing, captivating page turner that I was completely hooked on! When it came to the characters I felt a wide range of emotions and I loved and sympathised with each and every single one of them as they were all going through their own emotional turmoil's while trying to support each other. My heart was breaking for the majority of them. I found myself smiling, shouting, sad and laughing at different moments in this brilliant storyline. There was no way I could finish just one chapter as even though I kept telling myself I would and then go to bed, each chapter ended in a way where I just HAD to know what happened next and before I knew it I had devoured the whole book in one sitting in a few hours!!! The storyline was realistic which I always prefer as it makes it more enjoyable to read when you can see that it is something that could happen. This book is well constructed and was absolutely ram packed with so much going on that you will just fly through the pages!!! It is multi layered with all the fantastic characters backgrounds and personalities coming out and each and every character has their own personalities. It was a very compelling and addictive read!!! I genuinely could not praise this book enough as words just will not give it justice so grab your copy today, you won't regret it!!!! The storyline is absolutely unique having never come across anything like it before and I doubt I will again so a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Paul for this. I have read hundreds and hundreds of books so it is getting so difficult to find a book with a unique storyline but Paul absolutely managed not only that but a storyline I truly believe will stay with me for life!
Clear your schedules, grab the tissues and get ready to get completely sucked into a gorgeous, emotive and beautiful page turner. This book is such a unique and emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions!!
I loved meeting all the characters who are a delightful mix of personalities with intriguing backgrounds and each one was very compelling. I have never met a group of characters like this before and I've never loved a group of fictional characters as much as I did with this gang!!!! The only downfall is that they aren't real which is gutted as I would definitely get along with this gang!!!! I can't remember the last time I laughed so much!!! There was a variety of different characters of all ages and from all walks of life with very different situations and backgrounds all come together in this stunning read. Paul's amazing evocative writing skills really have brought each of these characters to life throughout this book and it is really sad to say Goodbye to them. An amazing group of realistic, strong, and unique characters that I have loved getting to know in this amazing book and that will stay with me for a very long time!!!!
Congratulations Mary on an absolutely stunning successful book, an absolutely brilliant, unique, emotive and thought provoking must read and I cannot wait to get stuck into more of your amazing books!! Welcome to my favourite authors club and here is to your next guaranteed success 🥂!!!!
Overall an absolutely gorgeous, unique page turner filled with emotions and with memorable characters!!!
#TheMichaelmasDaisy #PaulMarriner #Marriner66 #BluescalePublishing #LoveBooksTours #LBTCrew #KellyALacey #Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram #FreeReview #FreeBookReview #LBTLiteraryFiction #LBTReadAlong #ReadAlong #LBTContemporayFiction
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November 29, 2024
The Michaelmas Daisy by Paul Marriner
Read Along
REVIEW
'The Michaelmas Daisy' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Paul discusses Bereavement, Dementia and Alzheimer's.
Well done and Thank You to Paul Marriner for a hugely successful and stunning read!! This book is very smoothly written with vivid descriptions which really help you see what's going on around you as well as the storyline. The blurb and the cover compliment the novel perfectly. The illustrations on the paperback cover are beautiful.
OMG!!!!! I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this absolutely addictive and truly unique book!!! Honestly this book has just hit my top 3 books and considering how many books I have read that is an epic success!!! Instead of wasting your time reading this just grab your copy and get lost in this great storyline now. I can promise you won't regret it!! Where on Earth have you been all my life Paul??? I cannot believe that I had never read any of your books before this and am just so pleased that I have rectified that now!! I cannot wait to get stuck in to your previous and future books! Paul's amazing and evocative writing skills really has brought everything to life all throughout this fantastic book dropping you straight into the storyline where you will see, feel and hear everything that the characters are thinking, feeling, seeing and hearing including these absolutely amazing characters that I will not be forgetting for a very long time, if I ever do!!! This book really has been one of the best books I have ever read!!! In this one of a kind book we meet Beverly who actually died 8 years ago but stays and watches over her 58 year old daughter Pippa and her husband Kenny. Pippa has to care for Kenny 24/7 due to his poor health and he has Dementia. Pippa has recently lost her Mum Beverly as well as going through a divorce while also dealing with everything else that life brings from housework to bills, appointments and her own health plus more!! Pippa is offered some respite care hours that is partly paid for and the carer that arrives is 39 year old Kaska. Kaska provides Pippa with some time for herself and they form a beautiful friendship along with Kaska's friend and whose home she lodged in temporarily Raymond and ex-girlfriend and now friend and hairdresser Ruby. Together they provide support, friendship and much more while Pippa helps and looks after Kenny while his health goes downhill and all along with Beverly watching over them. i wont say any more about the storyline as I do not want to spoil it for others but if you want to find out more just grab your copy today. i can guarantee you will not regret it and you may even discover a new favourite author like I have. With an absolutely gorgeous and unforgettable storyline ram packed with emotions, isolation, love, family, dedication, fears, difficult decisions, friendship, heartache, loneliness, care, loyalty, hope, dreams and so, so much more!! It has everything plus even more than you could ever ask for in a beautiful book so what are you waiting for? My Nan and Grandad both suffered with dementia which is a completely heart breaking and cruel illness. This book reminded me so much of them and along with the storyline itself I had tears streaming down my face so make sure you get the tissues at the ready. I have worked as a carer myself and now care for my twin boys who both have autism and it is such a difficult but rewarding job. My heart aches for anyone who cares and loves someone with Dementia as it really is so cruel watching them struggle with so much and losing themselves. Paul has done an absolutely amazing job of putting these emotions in to words that are so difficult to explain. This book truly is an emotional rollercoaster ride of happiness, loneliness, love, heart ache, sadness, joy, hope and more!! It is such a down to Earth and realistic everyday storyline but one filled with emotions that I could see it all play out in front of my eyes. Paul covers a number of sensitive topics such as dementia, loneliness, bereavement, divorce and weaves it all into a beautiful storyline covering each of the topics sensitively whilst also highlighting the difficulties people struggle with each. Paul does an amazing job of creating such realistic characters so we see and feel what they are feeling and doing throughout the storyline while also living their lives along with them. Every single one of the characters are realistic, well developed and strong and I loved them all and would love to meet them again in another of Paul's books. Paul covers a range of relationships from parent and child, carer, friend, ex partners, friends. The fact that Paul genuinely cares about her characters absolutely shines through the book as does the fact that he has done plenty of research or has experience about a variety of topics. It is a pet hate when an author does little or no research into their chosen topics as it then runs the risk of their books being littered with mistakes and spoiling what could otherwise be a very good story but Paul has completely avoided this by doing plenty of research! I genuinely love how she covers such everyday topics portraying family life, caring, social life, friendship and more and creates this intriguing, captivating page turner that I was completely hooked on! When it came to the characters I felt a wide range of emotions and I loved and sympathised with each and every single one of them as they were all going through their own emotional turmoil's while trying to support each other. My heart was breaking for the majority of them. I found myself smiling, shouting, sad and laughing at different moments in this brilliant storyline. There was no way I could finish just one chapter as even though I kept telling myself I would and then go to bed, each chapter ended in a way where I just HAD to know what happened next and before I knew it I had devoured the whole book in one sitting in a few hours!!! The storyline was realistic which I always prefer as it makes it more enjoyable to read when you can see that it is something that could happen. This book is well constructed and was absolutely ram packed with so much going on that you will just fly through the pages!!! It is multi layered with all the fantastic characters backgrounds and personalities coming out and each and every character has their own personalities. It was a very compelling and addictive read!!! I genuinely could not praise this book enough as words just will not give it justice so grab your copy today, you won't regret it!!!! The storyline is absolutely unique having never come across anything like it before and I doubt I will again so a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Paul for this. I have read hundreds and hundreds of books so it is getting so difficult to find a book with a unique storyline but Paul absolutely managed not only that but a storyline I truly believe will stay with me for life!
Clear your schedules, grab the tissues and get ready to get completely sucked into a gorgeous, emotive and beautiful page turner. This book is such a unique and emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions!!
I loved meeting all the characters who are a delightful mix of personalities with intriguing backgrounds and each one was very compelling. I have never met a group of characters like this before and I've never loved a group of fictional characters as much as I did with this gang!!!! The only downfall is that they aren't real which is gutted as I would definitely get along with this gang!!!! I can't remember the last time I laughed so much!!! There was a variety of different characters of all ages and from all walks of life with very different situations and backgrounds all come together in this stunning read. Paul's amazing evocative writing skills really have brought each of these characters to life throughout this book and it is really sad to say Goodbye to them. An amazing group of realistic, strong, and unique characters that I have loved getting to know in this amazing book and that will stay with me for a very long time!!!!
Congratulations Mary on an absolutely stunning successful book, an absolutely brilliant, unique, emotive and thought provoking must read and I cannot wait to get stuck into more of your amazing books!! Welcome to my favourite authors club and here is to your next guaranteed success 🥂!!!!
Overall an absolutely gorgeous, unique page turner filled with emotions and with memorable characters!!!
#TheMichaelmasDaisy #PaulMarriner #Marriner66 #BluescalePublishing #LoveBooksTours #LBTCrew #KellyALacey #Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram #FreeReview #FreeBookReview #LBTLiteraryFiction #LBTReadAlong #ReadAlong #LBTContemporayFiction
@PaulMarriner @Marriner66 @BluescalePublishing @LoveBooksTours @LBTCrew @KellyALacey
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Read Along
REVIEW
'The Michaelmas Daisy' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Paul discusses Bereavement, Dementia and Alzheimer's.
Well done and Thank You to Paul Marriner for a hugely successful and stunning read!! This book is very smoothly written with vivid descriptions which really help you see what's going on around you as well as the storyline. The blurb and the cover compliment the novel perfectly. The illustrations on the paperback cover are beautiful.
OMG!!!!! I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this absolutely addictive and truly unique book!!! Honestly this book has just hit my top 3 books and considering how many books I have read that is an epic success!!! Instead of wasting your time reading this just grab your copy and get lost in this great storyline now. I can promise you won't regret it!! Where on Earth have you been all my life Paul??? I cannot believe that I had never read any of your books before this and am just so pleased that I have rectified that now!! I cannot wait to get stuck in to your previous and future books! Paul's amazing and evocative writing skills really has brought everything to life all throughout this fantastic book dropping you straight into the storyline where you will see, feel and hear everything that the characters are thinking, feeling, seeing and hearing including these absolutely amazing characters that I will not be forgetting for a very long time, if I ever do!!! This book really has been one of the best books I have ever read!!! In this one of a kind book we meet Beverly who actually died 8 years ago but stays and watches over her 58 year old daughter Pippa and her husband Kenny. Pippa has to care for Kenny 24/7 due to his poor health and he has Dementia. Pippa has recently lost her Mum Beverly as well as going through a divorce while also dealing with everything else that life brings from housework to bills, appointments and her own health plus more!! Pippa is offered some respite care hours that is partly paid for and the carer that arrives is 39 year old Kaska. Kaska provides Pippa with some time for herself and they form a beautiful friendship along with Kaska's friend and whose home she lodged in temporarily Raymond and ex-girlfriend and now friend and hairdresser Ruby. Together they provide support, friendship and much more while Pippa helps and looks after Kenny while his health goes downhill and all along with Beverly watching over them. i wont say any more about the storyline as I do not want to spoil it for others but if you want to find out more just grab your copy today. i can guarantee you will not regret it and you may even discover a new favourite author like I have. With an absolutely gorgeous and unforgettable storyline ram packed with emotions, isolation, love, family, dedication, fears, difficult decisions, friendship, heartache, loneliness, care, loyalty, hope, dreams and so, so much more!! It has everything plus even more than you could ever ask for in a beautiful book so what are you waiting for? My Nan and Grandad both suffered with dementia which is a completely heart breaking and cruel illness. This book reminded me so much of them and along with the storyline itself I had tears streaming down my face so make sure you get the tissues at the ready. I have worked as a carer myself and now care for my twin boys who both have autism and it is such a difficult but rewarding job. My heart aches for anyone who cares and loves someone with Dementia as it really is so cruel watching them struggle with so much and losing themselves. Paul has done an absolutely amazing job of putting these emotions in to words that are so difficult to explain. This book truly is an emotional rollercoaster ride of happiness, loneliness, love, heart ache, sadness, joy, hope and more!! It is such a down to Earth and realistic everyday storyline but one filled with emotions that I could see it all play out in front of my eyes. Paul covers a number of sensitive topics such as dementia, loneliness, bereavement, divorce and weaves it all into a beautiful storyline covering each of the topics sensitively whilst also highlighting the difficulties people struggle with each. Paul does an amazing job of creating such realistic characters so we see and feel what they are feeling and doing throughout the storyline while also living their lives along with them. Every single one of the characters are realistic, well developed and strong and I loved them all and would love to meet them again in another of Paul's books. Paul covers a range of relationships from parent and child, carer, friend, ex partners, friends. The fact that Paul genuinely cares about her characters absolutely shines through the book as does the fact that he has done plenty of research or has experience about a variety of topics. It is a pet hate when an author does little or no research into their chosen topics as it then runs the risk of their books being littered with mistakes and spoiling what could otherwise be a very good story but Paul has completely avoided this by doing plenty of research! I genuinely love how she covers such everyday topics portraying family life, caring, social life, friendship and more and creates this intriguing, captivating page turner that I was completely hooked on! When it came to the characters I felt a wide range of emotions and I loved and sympathised with each and every single one of them as they were all going through their own emotional turmoil's while trying to support each other. My heart was breaking for the majority of them. I found myself smiling, shouting, sad and laughing at different moments in this brilliant storyline. There was no way I could finish just one chapter as even though I kept telling myself I would and then go to bed, each chapter ended in a way where I just HAD to know what happened next and before I knew it I had devoured the whole book in one sitting in a few hours!!! The storyline was realistic which I always prefer as it makes it more enjoyable to read when you can see that it is something that could happen. This book is well constructed and was absolutely ram packed with so much going on that you will just fly through the pages!!! It is multi layered with all the fantastic characters backgrounds and personalities coming out and each and every character has their own personalities. It was a very compelling and addictive read!!! I genuinely could not praise this book enough as words just will not give it justice so grab your copy today, you won't regret it!!!! The storyline is absolutely unique having never come across anything like it before and I doubt I will again so a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Paul for this. I have read hundreds and hundreds of books so it is getting so difficult to find a book with a unique storyline but Paul absolutely managed not only that but a storyline I truly believe will stay with me for life!
Clear your schedules, grab the tissues and get ready to get completely sucked into a gorgeous, emotive and beautiful page turner. This book is such a unique and emotional rollercoaster ride of emotions!!
I loved meeting all the characters who are a delightful mix of personalities with intriguing backgrounds and each one was very compelling. I have never met a group of characters like this before and I've never loved a group of fictional characters as much as I did with this gang!!!! The only downfall is that they aren't real which is gutted as I would definitely get along with this gang!!!! I can't remember the last time I laughed so much!!! There was a variety of different characters of all ages and from all walks of life with very different situations and backgrounds all come together in this stunning read. Paul's amazing evocative writing skills really have brought each of these characters to life throughout this book and it is really sad to say Goodbye to them. An amazing group of realistic, strong, and unique characters that I have loved getting to know in this amazing book and that will stay with me for a very long time!!!!
Congratulations Mary on an absolutely stunning successful book, an absolutely brilliant, unique, emotive and thought provoking must read and I cannot wait to get stuck into more of your amazing books!! Welcome to my favourite authors club and here is to your next guaranteed success 🥂!!!!
Overall an absolutely gorgeous, unique page turner filled with emotions and with memorable characters!!!
#TheMichaelmasDaisy #PaulMarriner #Marriner66 #BluescalePublishing #LoveBooksTours #LBTCrew #KellyALacey #Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram #FreeReview #FreeBookReview #LBTLiteraryFiction #LBTReadAlong #ReadAlong #LBTContemporayFiction
@PaulMarriner @Marriner66 @BluescalePublishing @LoveBooksTours @LBTCrew @KellyALacey
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November 30, 2024
This book is full of heartwarming moments, but it's also a tearjerker - so keep that box of tissues at hand. I could relate to so much of it that it was a little hard to get through, honestly. If you're like me, make it an extra large box of tissues and be prepared to take breaks as necessary. But it's one of those books I don't regret reading one bit, no matter how emotionally taxing it was. The author dedicates it to people like me - caregivers - who spend their days making sure other people's needs are met, and it felt like a novel-length love letter to us.
I am one of those very lucky "sandwich" generation caregivers. I have a wonderful, beautiful daughter with autism. Even though she has low support needs, I have to carry her to various appointments and therapies each week. My dad, like the MMC in this book, has vascular dementia, though he is nowhere near as far along, necessitating various therapies and appointments frequently. We were told he wouldn't forget our name, which is a small comfort. Each time the MMC in the book told his daughter, "I know you," my eyes teared up.
The cast of supporting characters grew from zero to a delightful, zany crew. Seeing their heart for Philippa's father was beautiful. The journey with the characters is worth taking, but it is not easy. So buckle up and take it in hand for a truly life-changing experience.
Who's It For?
If you are a caregiver, this book is a love letter to the service you provide to those you care for each day. Beyond that, the author recognizes the service you provide to the entire healthcare system and society as a whole. Without the valuable services you (we) provide, these systems would have to do a great deal more. And, if you're not a caregiver yourself, this is still a powerful read because you know someone who is, who has a caregiver, or who will be or need one at some point. Caregiving affects all of us directly and indirectly. This book will make you appreciate that so much, and if you are a caregiver, it will help you recognize that you are not alone.
Content Warnings: Death, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Medical Trauma, Dying, Divorce, Family Drama/Dysfunction, Adult Language/Situations, Drug/Alcohol Abuse. This is not meant to serve as a complete list of subjects that individuals may find potentially bothersome.
I am one of those very lucky "sandwich" generation caregivers. I have a wonderful, beautiful daughter with autism. Even though she has low support needs, I have to carry her to various appointments and therapies each week. My dad, like the MMC in this book, has vascular dementia, though he is nowhere near as far along, necessitating various therapies and appointments frequently. We were told he wouldn't forget our name, which is a small comfort. Each time the MMC in the book told his daughter, "I know you," my eyes teared up.
The cast of supporting characters grew from zero to a delightful, zany crew. Seeing their heart for Philippa's father was beautiful. The journey with the characters is worth taking, but it is not easy. So buckle up and take it in hand for a truly life-changing experience.
Who's It For?
If you are a caregiver, this book is a love letter to the service you provide to those you care for each day. Beyond that, the author recognizes the service you provide to the entire healthcare system and society as a whole. Without the valuable services you (we) provide, these systems would have to do a great deal more. And, if you're not a caregiver yourself, this is still a powerful read because you know someone who is, who has a caregiver, or who will be or need one at some point. Caregiving affects all of us directly and indirectly. This book will make you appreciate that so much, and if you are a caregiver, it will help you recognize that you are not alone.
Content Warnings: Death, Chronic Illness, Dementia, Medical Trauma, Dying, Divorce, Family Drama/Dysfunction, Adult Language/Situations, Drug/Alcohol Abuse. This is not meant to serve as a complete list of subjects that individuals may find potentially bothersome.
September 8, 2025
I was sent a copy of this audiobook for review.
This was a beautiful story that explores the dynamic of caring for a family member. My sister is carer to my nephew with special needs, and I know only too well the toll and loneliness this can have for the one carrying all the load. This book delves into the sweet relationship of a father and daughter who deeply love each other which is sadly accompanied by heartache as Phillippa is the sole carer for her aging father Kenny who suffers with dementia, ailing health and mobility issues. Phillippa is feeling lost after her divorce while coping with being a full-time Carer and not having any social life.
Kaska, a Respite worker comes along to help Phillippa a few hours a week. She brings much-needed kindness, patience and caring with her. She offers Phillippa a release from her heavy daily life and allows her to take some personal time to explore life outside the house. She brings joy to Kenny’s life as she sings old time songs with him, doesn’t have the emotional trauma that Phillipa does when he is forgets her while also just being an uplifting person. This new atmosphere in the home creates a sense of hope for all of them.
The part of the story that added even more emotional weight and got me properly teary as I listened was the inclusion of Beverley, Phillippa’s deceased mother’s ghost who narrates her thoughts on seeing her daughter sinking into sadness as well her longlining for her beloved husband Kenny. Beverley’s observations were often informative for the other characters, endearing in how she viewed what was happening and heartbreaking as she grapples with not being able to help anymore.
The book deals with tough subjects but I think they are important topics which effects a lot more people than anyone realises. We can all relate to the narrative or know someone who is in Phillippa’s or Kenny’s position or even in that position ourselves. It was beautifully written, and the narrator did a wonderful job of bringing all the characters and their personalities to life, particularly Beverley.
This was a beautiful story that explores the dynamic of caring for a family member. My sister is carer to my nephew with special needs, and I know only too well the toll and loneliness this can have for the one carrying all the load. This book delves into the sweet relationship of a father and daughter who deeply love each other which is sadly accompanied by heartache as Phillippa is the sole carer for her aging father Kenny who suffers with dementia, ailing health and mobility issues. Phillippa is feeling lost after her divorce while coping with being a full-time Carer and not having any social life.
Kaska, a Respite worker comes along to help Phillippa a few hours a week. She brings much-needed kindness, patience and caring with her. She offers Phillippa a release from her heavy daily life and allows her to take some personal time to explore life outside the house. She brings joy to Kenny’s life as she sings old time songs with him, doesn’t have the emotional trauma that Phillipa does when he is forgets her while also just being an uplifting person. This new atmosphere in the home creates a sense of hope for all of them.
The part of the story that added even more emotional weight and got me properly teary as I listened was the inclusion of Beverley, Phillippa’s deceased mother’s ghost who narrates her thoughts on seeing her daughter sinking into sadness as well her longlining for her beloved husband Kenny. Beverley’s observations were often informative for the other characters, endearing in how she viewed what was happening and heartbreaking as she grapples with not being able to help anymore.
The book deals with tough subjects but I think they are important topics which effects a lot more people than anyone realises. We can all relate to the narrative or know someone who is in Phillippa’s or Kenny’s position or even in that position ourselves. It was beautifully written, and the narrator did a wonderful job of bringing all the characters and their personalities to life, particularly Beverley.
December 8, 2024
Beverley is dead and watching over her husband Kenny, and their daughter Philippa, who has become Kenny's carer as he is in the later stages of dementia. Philippa is very lonely and exhausted being his sole carer, but is happy to care for him. She then gets a little respite in the form of Kaska, a nurse who comes to care for Kenny a few hours a week to give Philippa a much needed break. She is initially reticent to allow anyone else to care for him, but soon warms to Kaska and a friendship slowly develops.
Beverley is our narrator and provides us with details of her live with Kenny, as well as more background on her daughter, she shares with us her hopes and regrets, the things she wishes she'd shared with her daughter.
I found this novel to be particularly poignant having lost my own mother to a rare form of dementia last year. I could relate to the pain when another memory is lost, and the regret of having so much I wish I'd asked her and things I wish she could've known, the agony of my daughter never having seen the person she really was before her illness. I also did a lot of caring for my mother, and it is hard to try to give the person dignity when having to assist with cleaning and personal hygiene.
So Philippa's life really struck a chord with me, and I'd like to think my mum is still here. My parents had been together 50 years so hearing how helpless Beverley felt in being unable to help her husband was also something I saw with my dad.
I loved this although it was hard reading for me too, I would recommend this to everyone, regardless of whether or not they've experienced any of this, as it is a very sensitive portrayal of difficult subject matter, but still gives hope. Those who can relate will understand the struggles, those who haven't been through it may (I hope) feel compelled to share more with their families and ask about their lives before they were born/before they knew them.
Beverley is our narrator and provides us with details of her live with Kenny, as well as more background on her daughter, she shares with us her hopes and regrets, the things she wishes she'd shared with her daughter.
I found this novel to be particularly poignant having lost my own mother to a rare form of dementia last year. I could relate to the pain when another memory is lost, and the regret of having so much I wish I'd asked her and things I wish she could've known, the agony of my daughter never having seen the person she really was before her illness. I also did a lot of caring for my mother, and it is hard to try to give the person dignity when having to assist with cleaning and personal hygiene.
So Philippa's life really struck a chord with me, and I'd like to think my mum is still here. My parents had been together 50 years so hearing how helpless Beverley felt in being unable to help her husband was also something I saw with my dad.
I loved this although it was hard reading for me too, I would recommend this to everyone, regardless of whether or not they've experienced any of this, as it is a very sensitive portrayal of difficult subject matter, but still gives hope. Those who can relate will understand the struggles, those who haven't been through it may (I hope) feel compelled to share more with their families and ask about their lives before they were born/before they knew them.
November 3, 2024
The Michaelmas Daisy is the most incredibly beautiful book I have ever read. This book will stay with me forever. I am so grateful to the author for reminding me of the fun , laughter and singing we would share with my wonderful Granny as she was slowly taken from us by such an awful disease.
This is a story not just about Dementia and those who so lovingly and compassionatly care for those suffering but also of death, grieving and accepting the awful inevitable.
The story is told from the perspective of Beverley who has passed away. She watches over her daughter Philippa as she cares for her father (Beverley's husband) Kenny whilst also carrying on with her own life. I think a lot of people will relate to many of the characters and the sacrifices and difficult decisions they make.
The character of Kaska the carer is wonderful, she is everything I hope all carers are, full of kindness and compassion. She doesn't see Kenny as a patient but a friend and treats him and Phillipa with the love a family member would.
I love that the author has incorporated music especially singing into the story. Even when my Granny could no longer speak in sentences she could still sing along to her favourite songs from the good old days and some of the chapter titles had me sobbing with happy tears and beautiful memories of our last years with her. When those final days arrive it is very true that we must try to bring "a smile and a song"
I'm sure anyone who has experienced losing a loved one to Dementia will appreciate the little bits of humour as every now and then a loved ones personality would sparkle through the darkness as Kenny's does.
Thank you a million times over to this incredible author for creating this wonderful book and sharing it with the world. I hope you can tell how much comfort you have brought me.
This is a must read.
This is a story not just about Dementia and those who so lovingly and compassionatly care for those suffering but also of death, grieving and accepting the awful inevitable.
The story is told from the perspective of Beverley who has passed away. She watches over her daughter Philippa as she cares for her father (Beverley's husband) Kenny whilst also carrying on with her own life. I think a lot of people will relate to many of the characters and the sacrifices and difficult decisions they make.
The character of Kaska the carer is wonderful, she is everything I hope all carers are, full of kindness and compassion. She doesn't see Kenny as a patient but a friend and treats him and Phillipa with the love a family member would.
I love that the author has incorporated music especially singing into the story. Even when my Granny could no longer speak in sentences she could still sing along to her favourite songs from the good old days and some of the chapter titles had me sobbing with happy tears and beautiful memories of our last years with her. When those final days arrive it is very true that we must try to bring "a smile and a song"
I'm sure anyone who has experienced losing a loved one to Dementia will appreciate the little bits of humour as every now and then a loved ones personality would sparkle through the darkness as Kenny's does.
Thank you a million times over to this incredible author for creating this wonderful book and sharing it with the world. I hope you can tell how much comfort you have brought me.
This is a must read.
November 30, 2024
The Michaelmas Daisy by Paul Marriner is a heartfelt exploration of family, love, loss, and the intricacies of human connection. From the very first page, Marriner drew me in with his eloquent prose, weaving together emotions and situations that felt intensely real. His writing has a unique ability to delve into the core of difficult issues, yet it does so with a tenderness and humour that lightens the weight of the subject matter, making even the most emotional moments feel accessible and deeply relatable.
The characters in The Michaelmas Daisy were brought to life in such a vivid way that I became fully invested in their stories. Phillipa and Kenny's journey was a true emotional rollercoaster—one that will make you laugh in one moment and leave you with a lump in your throat the next. Marriner masterfully balanced the complexity of their experiences, allowing me to share in their joys, struggles, and moments of personal growth. Through their ups and downs, he reminded me of the fragility and strength of family bonds, the pain of loss, and the enduring power of love.
As I read, I found myself laughing, wincing, and crying alongside these characters, completely drawn into their world. Marriner's skilful storytelling is what sets this novel apart—he allows the emotions to flow naturally without ever feeling forced or manipulative. Every moment felt earned, and as I have lived with someone who had dementia every moment felt true
In conclusion, The Michaelmas Daisy is a beautifully written novel that touched my heart and will stay with me for a very long time. Paul Marriner has crafted a story that is as moving as it is insightful, filled with warmth, empathy, and humour. Whether you’re drawn to stories about family dynamics or you enjoy tales that pull at your heartstrings, this is a book that will not disappoint. A truly unforgettable read.
The characters in The Michaelmas Daisy were brought to life in such a vivid way that I became fully invested in their stories. Phillipa and Kenny's journey was a true emotional rollercoaster—one that will make you laugh in one moment and leave you with a lump in your throat the next. Marriner masterfully balanced the complexity of their experiences, allowing me to share in their joys, struggles, and moments of personal growth. Through their ups and downs, he reminded me of the fragility and strength of family bonds, the pain of loss, and the enduring power of love.
As I read, I found myself laughing, wincing, and crying alongside these characters, completely drawn into their world. Marriner's skilful storytelling is what sets this novel apart—he allows the emotions to flow naturally without ever feeling forced or manipulative. Every moment felt earned, and as I have lived with someone who had dementia every moment felt true
In conclusion, The Michaelmas Daisy is a beautifully written novel that touched my heart and will stay with me for a very long time. Paul Marriner has crafted a story that is as moving as it is insightful, filled with warmth, empathy, and humour. Whether you’re drawn to stories about family dynamics or you enjoy tales that pull at your heartstrings, this is a book that will not disappoint. A truly unforgettable read.
September 9, 2025
I have previously read this book in paperback form on a @LoveBooksTours Virtual Book Tour and was delighted to join them again this time with an audio book version of "The Michaelmas Daisy". The narration by Colleen MacMahon works brilliantly, as she oozes warmth, care, compassion, hope, and understanding of the characters and their situation and once again I was in tears with the impact the book had on me. With this "re-read," I had in the interim experienced the dedication and constant care needed for a loved one living at home, hence my reaction. I shall be looking out for other books narrated by Colleen MacMahon as she is on a par with my favourite narrator Jonathan Keeble, and of course, I look forward to another book by the talented Paul Marriner.
ORIGINAL REVIEW
How can a book deliver such an emotional punch that it had me in tears minutes into starting to read. Such is the skill of the writing of Paul Marriner. It really brought home to me the relentless grind of a full-time carer and the loneliness and isolation they must feel. Even when agencies come fleetingly into the house their workers are either too stretched for time or unwilling to have a conversation releaving the lack of human contact and daily monotony for the care giver and the cared for person.
A powerful tale of love and loss.The characters will stay with me for some time. I spent a lot of time reading the book with tears in my eyes as the story was so close to home. I'm not a carer, but I know someone who is, and this book hit me hard, realising how they must feel and the life they lead.
The book has an attractive cover and is similar to previous books, making it very recognisably the authors work. The characters are all very likeable and feel real.
ORIGINAL REVIEW
How can a book deliver such an emotional punch that it had me in tears minutes into starting to read. Such is the skill of the writing of Paul Marriner. It really brought home to me the relentless grind of a full-time carer and the loneliness and isolation they must feel. Even when agencies come fleetingly into the house their workers are either too stretched for time or unwilling to have a conversation releaving the lack of human contact and daily monotony for the care giver and the cared for person.
A powerful tale of love and loss.The characters will stay with me for some time. I spent a lot of time reading the book with tears in my eyes as the story was so close to home. I'm not a carer, but I know someone who is, and this book hit me hard, realising how they must feel and the life they lead.
The book has an attractive cover and is similar to previous books, making it very recognisably the authors work. The characters are all very likeable and feel real.
December 19, 2024
Wow, I knew this would be a bit of a tough read, since I have only recently said goodbye to my father, who suffered from Alzheimers for many years. I was his person, so I can so, so relate to how Philippa felt about the little utterances that made her dad unique and the bond that they shared. I always said that my dad might not be able to remember my name but he always knew I was HIS. His heart and mine always connected, right up until the last. And unlike Kenny, my dad stopped being able to speak about 2 years before he passed.
Anyway, this is a thoughtfully written story about the bond between Kenny, who needs a LOT of care, and his daughter Philippa. Kenny's wife, Beverley, narrates the book, although she is looking on from above, since she is no longer alive. That sounds odd, perhaps, but it is beautifully done.
Kaska is gorgeous and I can "hear" her speaking in my minds eye. She brings a joy and a lightness to the story that it needed. I love that she brings Philippa out of herself, a little, as the caring role is a very isolating one. The addition of Raymond rounds out the main characters and I really liked him too.
The various choices that needed to be made along the way made my heart break for all of them, because I have been there too.
Just like another reviewer, I wanted an epilogue because I got very emotionally invested in the story but the ending was a good one, nevertheless.
5 stars from me.
Anyway, this is a thoughtfully written story about the bond between Kenny, who needs a LOT of care, and his daughter Philippa. Kenny's wife, Beverley, narrates the book, although she is looking on from above, since she is no longer alive. That sounds odd, perhaps, but it is beautifully done.
Kaska is gorgeous and I can "hear" her speaking in my minds eye. She brings a joy and a lightness to the story that it needed. I love that she brings Philippa out of herself, a little, as the caring role is a very isolating one. The addition of Raymond rounds out the main characters and I really liked him too.
The various choices that needed to be made along the way made my heart break for all of them, because I have been there too.
Just like another reviewer, I wanted an epilogue because I got very emotionally invested in the story but the ending was a good one, nevertheless.
5 stars from me.
November 30, 2024
Here is my review for this great book;
4.5 stars
Our narrator is Beverley who is dead and watching over both her daughter and husband. She shares everything that is happening both the joy and tears.
Her daughter phillipa is a carer looking after her father 24/7 which is hard work. Kenny needs so much care and attention.
Kaska arrives into their lives to provide respite care but more importantly kindness and joy when it’s really needed.
I absolutely loved this book and it’s full of love. Showing what it’s like to be a carer for a loved one and how isolating it can be. I loved kaska and all she does to support Phillipa is so great. You can see how hard it is for Kenny who struggles at times which really broke me. As a carer you need so much strength and I admire them with all my heart.Reading it slowly really helped as I could take it in and think about what the characters were going through. Showing life for carers is needed and was done perfectly. Thank you so much to the author for writing such a great book with characters I really loved.
December 12, 2024
I have worked as a carer, and I was really interested to see how Paul would write about people like me. And I have to say thank-you. Thank-you for capturing how hard it can be, but also how rewarding. Thank-you for recognising the work we do. Whilst I've only been a carer in the professional, rather than familial sense, you do love your patients almost as much as family. And thank-you for making me cry!
This book was absolutely beautiful. From the front cover, to the writing and poetry. It really captures the realities of life as a carer, and also of living with a loved one with dementia.
I found Philippa's struggles to decide what to do at times to be so realistic and genuine. And Beverly having to choose between who needs her more, her husband or her daughter was so relatable. Not that I'm a wife, but having to decide which child needs you more is so hard.
Finally, I loved the mention of Totopoly, I don't know anyone who's played it! And David Essex. My mum is the same age as Philippa, and she loves him too.
I'm going to be honest and say that my review hasn't done this book justice. Because I don't think I can. So just read it!
This book was absolutely beautiful. From the front cover, to the writing and poetry. It really captures the realities of life as a carer, and also of living with a loved one with dementia.
I found Philippa's struggles to decide what to do at times to be so realistic and genuine. And Beverly having to choose between who needs her more, her husband or her daughter was so relatable. Not that I'm a wife, but having to decide which child needs you more is so hard.
Finally, I loved the mention of Totopoly, I don't know anyone who's played it! And David Essex. My mum is the same age as Philippa, and she loves him too.
I'm going to be honest and say that my review hasn't done this book justice. Because I don't think I can. So just read it!
November 30, 2024
This is the second book I've read by Paul Mariner, having read Miracle Number Four earlier in the year. So I had an idea of what to expect, and let me tell you, The Michaelmas Daisy certainly did not disappoint.
Here we follow Beverley, who's dead but watches over her family still. She watches over her husband and daughter as they grow older, and aa her husband's heath declines. She watches as her daughter, Philippa, cares for her ill father, sacrificing her own time to make sure her father is as comfortable as possible.
Help arrives in the form of a carer but the father's condition worsens by the day and Philippa’s resolve is put to the test.
Want to know more? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
So all in all, this was a beautiful, wholesome read, full of emotion, love and loyalty. But also a sense of despair, but a message that there's always hope and light at the end of the tunnel.
It's a brave subject to take on and I applaud the author for doing so, especially in such a compassionate and sensitive way.
Well done Paul Marriner.
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
Here we follow Beverley, who's dead but watches over her family still. She watches over her husband and daughter as they grow older, and aa her husband's heath declines. She watches as her daughter, Philippa, cares for her ill father, sacrificing her own time to make sure her father is as comfortable as possible.
Help arrives in the form of a carer but the father's condition worsens by the day and Philippa’s resolve is put to the test.
Want to know more? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
So all in all, this was a beautiful, wholesome read, full of emotion, love and loyalty. But also a sense of despair, but a message that there's always hope and light at the end of the tunnel.
It's a brave subject to take on and I applaud the author for doing so, especially in such a compassionate and sensitive way.
Well done Paul Marriner.
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
December 1, 2024
This book, which I received a gifted copy of, delivered such an emotional punch that it had me in tears minutes into starting to read. Such is the skill of the writing of Paul Marriner and the subject matter. It really brought home to me the relentless grind of a full-time carer and the loneliness and isolation they must feel. Even when agencies come fleetingly into the house their workers are either too stretched for time or unwilling to have a conversation releaving the lack of human contact and daily monotony for the care giver and the cared for person.
A powerful tale of love and loss.The characters will stay with me for some time. I spent a lot of time reading the book with tears in my eyes as the story was so close to home. I'm not a carer, but I know someone who is, and this book hit me hard, realising how they must feel and the life they lead.
The book has an attractive cover and is similar to previous books, making it very recognisably the authors work. The characters are all very likeable and feel real.
A powerful tale of love and loss.The characters will stay with me for some time. I spent a lot of time reading the book with tears in my eyes as the story was so close to home. I'm not a carer, but I know someone who is, and this book hit me hard, realising how they must feel and the life they lead.
The book has an attractive cover and is similar to previous books, making it very recognisably the authors work. The characters are all very likeable and feel real.
January 16, 2025
Reading the blurb, I knew it was going to be a sad book. This book honestly tugs at your heartstrings as we mainly explore the narrative of Beverley who is already dead but she is still there with her family, watching over them. Her husband, Kenny, has dementia and her daughter, Phillipa, is divorced but has been looking after her dad every single day. I personally don’t have any family members that have that condition so I can’t relate to what Phillipa is going through but I do feel sympathy towards her as she has sacrificed so much just to look after Kenny. Then, Kaska gets introduced into the picture later who becomes Kenny’s carer and allows Phillipa to see that theres still time to enjoy her life that she has missed out on.
I think it’s been such a long time for me to have read something that’s so real and emotional. The way that Paul Marrimer has written this story is beautiful. I loved Beverley’s character, even though she’s dead she can still crack some jokes 😂. Seeing how Phillipa and Kaska become closer to one another is just lovely. Phillipa has gone through thick and thin and I feel like she deserved to have a friend like Kaska in her life. I also love the songs that Kenny sings, despite him having dementia he will never forget those songs!
Overall, a very touching story surrounding a loving family. I will highly recommend this book 😊
I think it’s been such a long time for me to have read something that’s so real and emotional. The way that Paul Marrimer has written this story is beautiful. I loved Beverley’s character, even though she’s dead she can still crack some jokes 😂. Seeing how Phillipa and Kaska become closer to one another is just lovely. Phillipa has gone through thick and thin and I feel like she deserved to have a friend like Kaska in her life. I also love the songs that Kenny sings, despite him having dementia he will never forget those songs!
Overall, a very touching story surrounding a loving family. I will highly recommend this book 😊
November 21, 2024
This is one of those books that'll stay with you a while! Following the family of daughter Phillipa, who has given up her job to look after her elderly father Kenny after her mother Beverley passed away. You can really see the struggles she faces along the way with toileting, washing, feeding etc, all simple enough but by having to use the hoist to lift him, makes it all the more poignant and I admire any care workers who make this their career.
I'm thinking about when I'll have to look after my parents and I'd like to think they are watching over me like Beverley does to Kenny and Phillipa. I like the writing of the dual POV, from Beverley and Phillipa's side.
I also have a soft spot for Kaska! She's like a guardian angel that helps to sit with Kenny but also takes a bit off the strain of Phillipa. I also like that Phillipa has Lewis close by, regardless of what their relationship becomes, he's there.
Would recommend this and think it'll stay with you a while too!
I'm thinking about when I'll have to look after my parents and I'd like to think they are watching over me like Beverley does to Kenny and Phillipa. I like the writing of the dual POV, from Beverley and Phillipa's side.
I also have a soft spot for Kaska! She's like a guardian angel that helps to sit with Kenny but also takes a bit off the strain of Phillipa. I also like that Phillipa has Lewis close by, regardless of what their relationship becomes, he's there.
Would recommend this and think it'll stay with you a while too!
November 30, 2024
Usually I read a book and immediately write up a review. Usually I take notes as I go along in preparation for what I think. I did neither for this book. I needed a few days to take it in and pull myself together, not a single note written or needed. The story of an only child daughter caring for her elderly father is not new but this was told in such a way that was raw, real, intimate and absolutely heartfelt. This book touched me so deeply I can hardly describe it in words and I have no doubt it will touch many other people too living in similar circumstances. With wonderful characters and painfully difficult decisions, the power of family and friendship, love, loyalty and life shines through. I loved Kaska, what a breath of fresh air she was. This is such a sensitive conveyance of the many Philippa’s, Kenny’s and Kaska’s out there every day doing their best, getting through each day. Paul Marriner, I loved it, please write a sequel.
November 30, 2024
This book. I struggled for so long to put I. To words just what I wanted to say about it. But to be truthful it was so beautiful but at the same time absolutely broke me.
Philippa is one of the strongest characters I have ever read about. And her father Kenny, he is hilarious but also is suffering and this is such a strange mix to read about.
Seeing the story develop as the chapters go on really really hurt my heart at times. But also warmed it to see new people arrive in Philippa’s life to help her navigate her circumstances. Kaska is just perfect. And the arrival of Raymond later on.
This is a story that hits in the truth of caring for someone with dementia. The everyday struggle, the love and care that is constantly given all at the sacrifice of the person doing the caring. It is so selfless and so heartbreaking that there isn’t more help available.
This book will stay with me. It will be one I think back to. It will be one I remember forever.
Philippa is one of the strongest characters I have ever read about. And her father Kenny, he is hilarious but also is suffering and this is such a strange mix to read about.
Seeing the story develop as the chapters go on really really hurt my heart at times. But also warmed it to see new people arrive in Philippa’s life to help her navigate her circumstances. Kaska is just perfect. And the arrival of Raymond later on.
This is a story that hits in the truth of caring for someone with dementia. The everyday struggle, the love and care that is constantly given all at the sacrifice of the person doing the caring. It is so selfless and so heartbreaking that there isn’t more help available.
This book will stay with me. It will be one I think back to. It will be one I remember forever.
February 8, 2025
A beautifully written tribute to those who care and are cared for.
An emotional, deeply moving novel that delves into themes of loneliness, loyalty, love, and hope. It's a powerful, heartwarming tale that leaves a lasting impact.
The story is uniquely told from the perspective of Beverley, who has passed away but continues to watch over her family. This point of view is very different and allows readers to experience the full spectrum of Beverley's emotions.
Philippa, Beverley's daughter, is a devoted and compassionate carer for her ailing father. The brilliant writing captures the challenges she faces and the difficult choices she must make as her father's condition worsens. The arrival of Kaska brings much needed support.
The book depicts in a heartwarming way the love between family. The book also shows the harsh realities of caregiving capturing the complexities and sacrifices involved, but balances these with moments of tenderness and hope.
An emotional, deeply moving novel that delves into themes of loneliness, loyalty, love, and hope. It's a powerful, heartwarming tale that leaves a lasting impact.
The story is uniquely told from the perspective of Beverley, who has passed away but continues to watch over her family. This point of view is very different and allows readers to experience the full spectrum of Beverley's emotions.
Philippa, Beverley's daughter, is a devoted and compassionate carer for her ailing father. The brilliant writing captures the challenges she faces and the difficult choices she must make as her father's condition worsens. The arrival of Kaska brings much needed support.
The book depicts in a heartwarming way the love between family. The book also shows the harsh realities of caregiving capturing the complexities and sacrifices involved, but balances these with moments of tenderness and hope.
November 30, 2024
I adored this book, it was so easy to get into and read but was also so devastating in its subject matters. I think it takes a very special author to be able to write about such hard and emotional topics in such a heartbreaking and beautiful way. This author is definitely one of those authors.
The book is well written with a compelling yet heart wrenching story line and well developed characters which honestly by the end of the book felt like family to me. I adored them and didn't want them to leave.
The book hit me on a personal level as it brought back memories of my Gramps death last year and the difficult decisions we had to make for someone who was no longer able to make them for themselves and again the author captured this perfectly.
There are some tough topics such as miscarriage, death and so on however I believe these are all handled sensitively and appropriately and all play an important part in the story.
I really can't do this beautiful story justice and I could talk about it all day but I don't want to spoil it for anyone so please please read it
The book is well written with a compelling yet heart wrenching story line and well developed characters which honestly by the end of the book felt like family to me. I adored them and didn't want them to leave.
The book hit me on a personal level as it brought back memories of my Gramps death last year and the difficult decisions we had to make for someone who was no longer able to make them for themselves and again the author captured this perfectly.
There are some tough topics such as miscarriage, death and so on however I believe these are all handled sensitively and appropriately and all play an important part in the story.
I really can't do this beautiful story justice and I could talk about it all day but I don't want to spoil it for anyone so please please read it
August 20, 2025
This book has been on my radar for a while and I was so glad when the opportunity to listen to the audiobook came along.
I was anticipating that it would be quite an emotional book and if I’m honest I wasn’t sure how I would cope.
The book is emotional but in such a well thought and well spoken way that the sadness and fear is beautifully counterbalanced with love, friendship and hope. It is not a comedy but there are moments where having being in a situation of slowly watching a loved one slip further away - I laughed at the reality being portrayed and how it made me remember my own experiences.
The book is truly well written and the characters are as real as they can be in fiction.
This book brings a light to the reality of illness and the ever loving role of those who care for us.
I was anticipating that it would be quite an emotional book and if I’m honest I wasn’t sure how I would cope.
The book is emotional but in such a well thought and well spoken way that the sadness and fear is beautifully counterbalanced with love, friendship and hope. It is not a comedy but there are moments where having being in a situation of slowly watching a loved one slip further away - I laughed at the reality being portrayed and how it made me remember my own experiences.
The book is truly well written and the characters are as real as they can be in fiction.
This book brings a light to the reality of illness and the ever loving role of those who care for us.
November 27, 2024
This is the second book by this author that I have read and it was just as heartbreaking as the first. We follow our main character as she navigates life after her mother passes away and then becoming the main carer for her father. This is one of those stories were you feel so much for the characters that you want to jump into the pages, hug them and then be in the support system to allow them to start the healing process. I love that we are drawn into the story so much that you want to get more information about them and then you start to make links with the other books that the author has written as they are all in the same story book world. I need more from this author and can not wait to see what comes next.
January 5, 2025
This is a heartwarming story about love, loss, loneliness, hope, and all the in-between. Told from Beverley's POV as she watches over her family and their struggles, you really get to feel her frustration, guilt, and hopelessness at not being able to help or engage with her family. My own grandmother is in the early stages of dementia and I felt this was an accurate view of all parties involved in that diagnosis. From Kenny's frustration at no longer having any independence, Philippa's loneliness due to the responsibility of being her dad's carer, the repetition of conversations and routine, and, of course, the guilt. This is beautifully written and shows what is both sacrificed and gained in a carer's role.
January 11, 2025
The Michaelmas Daisy by Paul Marriner
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A heart wrenching story, beautifully written. The story was gently told but had me gripped from the start; ultimately I could see where the story was heading with Kenny but it was the stories of the other characters which I held out for. The story is told from an interesting perspective; it’s Beverley who narrates the story, Kenny’s dead wife and Philippa’s dead mum. I enjoyed this way of telling the story, you see it as essentially an outsider as they can’t see or hear her and she can only tell what she sees and hears, adding in snippets of life years ago. I enjoyed meeting Kaska and Raymond, and would have liked to see what happened next.
I received a gifted copy of this book. This is my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A heart wrenching story, beautifully written. The story was gently told but had me gripped from the start; ultimately I could see where the story was heading with Kenny but it was the stories of the other characters which I held out for. The story is told from an interesting perspective; it’s Beverley who narrates the story, Kenny’s dead wife and Philippa’s dead mum. I enjoyed this way of telling the story, you see it as essentially an outsider as they can’t see or hear her and she can only tell what she sees and hears, adding in snippets of life years ago. I enjoyed meeting Kaska and Raymond, and would have liked to see what happened next.
I received a gifted copy of this book. This is my honest review.
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