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Equilibrium
In the year since her husband died, Laura Klein's world has shifted on its axis. It's not just that she's raising two children alone - fact is, Laura always did the parenting for both of them. But now her fifteen-year-old daughter, Darcy, is dating a boy with a fast car and faster hands, and thirteen-year-old Troy's attitude has plummeted along with his voice. Just when she's resigning herself to a life of worry and selfless support, her charismatic new tenant offers what Laura least a second chance.
Darcy isn't surprised her mom doesn't understand her, though she never imagined her suddenly acting like a love-struck teen herself. With Troy starting to show signs of their father's bipolar disorder, and her best friend increasingly secretive, Darcy turns to her new boyfriend, Nick, for support. Yet Nick has a troubled side of his own, forcing Darcy toward life-altering choices.
Exploring the effects of grief on both mother and daughter, Equilibrium is a thoughtful, resolutely uplifting novel about finding the balance between holding on and letting go, between knowing when to mourn and when to hope, and between the love we seek and the love we choose to give.
Darcy isn't surprised her mom doesn't understand her, though she never imagined her suddenly acting like a love-struck teen herself. With Troy starting to show signs of their father's bipolar disorder, and her best friend increasingly secretive, Darcy turns to her new boyfriend, Nick, for support. Yet Nick has a troubled side of his own, forcing Darcy toward life-altering choices.
Exploring the effects of grief on both mother and daughter, Equilibrium is a thoughtful, resolutely uplifting novel about finding the balance between holding on and letting go, between knowing when to mourn and when to hope, and between the love we seek and the love we choose to give.
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First published January 1, 2013
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About the author
Lorrie Thomson
3 books60 followersLorrie Thomson is the award-winning author of three novels from Kensington Books: A Measure of Happiness, What’s Left Behind, and Equilibrium. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband and their youngest offspring. When she’s not reading, writing, or hunting for collectibles, you can find her climbing indoor walls, hiking outdoor trails, and pedaling upon the seat of a bicycle built for two.
To learn more about Lorrie and her books, sign up for her newsletter, and arrange a book club chat, visit her website at www.lorriethomson.com.
Connect with Lorrie: www.twitter.com/LorrieThomson, www.facebook/lorriethomsonauthor, https://www.goodreads.com/author/show..., https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lorri....
To learn more about Lorrie and her books, sign up for her newsletter, and arrange a book club chat, visit her website at www.lorriethomson.com.
Connect with Lorrie: www.twitter.com/LorrieThomson, www.facebook/lorriethomsonauthor, https://www.goodreads.com/author/show..., https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lorri....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
October 10, 2014
I was lucky enough to win an autographed copy of Equilibrium from the author as part of a Goodreads giveaway. I am primarily a thriller reader, but occasionally like a change of pace with a good women's fiction/literary fiction book. One thing I insist on is that my women's fiction reads have substance; Equilibrium did not disappoint. This novel is an excellent effort by first time writer Lorrie Thomson.
This story focuses on the fallout onto the immediate family when a man with bipolar disorder elects to end his own life. I am a newly retired physician, and it was clear to me that Ms. Thomson did her research on bipolar disorder. I found the storyline to be very believable; this family could easily be my neighbors or your neighbors. The character development, not only of the protagonist Laura (the widow), but of her two children, her daughter's love interest and her own love interest was superb. I felt for all of them. The writing was for the most part excellent. The pacing, which really picked up in the last few chapters, was very good up until the very end. The main reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 stars is that I thought the ending was rushed. I wanted more detail on how the resolutions of multiple issues actually played out instead of just being told that they did; I would have welcomed another 50-75 pages for that.
Will I read Ms. Thomson's next book "What's Left Behind"? YES. I look forward to reading more novels by this very promising debut author.
This story focuses on the fallout onto the immediate family when a man with bipolar disorder elects to end his own life. I am a newly retired physician, and it was clear to me that Ms. Thomson did her research on bipolar disorder. I found the storyline to be very believable; this family could easily be my neighbors or your neighbors. The character development, not only of the protagonist Laura (the widow), but of her two children, her daughter's love interest and her own love interest was superb. I felt for all of them. The writing was for the most part excellent. The pacing, which really picked up in the last few chapters, was very good up until the very end. The main reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 stars is that I thought the ending was rushed. I wanted more detail on how the resolutions of multiple issues actually played out instead of just being told that they did; I would have welcomed another 50-75 pages for that.
Will I read Ms. Thomson's next book "What's Left Behind"? YES. I look forward to reading more novels by this very promising debut author.
April 17, 2020
A really beautiful story about love and loss, holding on and letting go. Written with heart and hope and immensely uplifting, the characters were beautifully drawn. A truly thought-provoking family drama about the very real struggles that families go through when dealing with the stigma of suicide and the legacy of bipolar disorder.
July 12, 2013
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an advance copy of Lorrie Thomson's debut novel, and wow, I was blown away.It's actually been a few weeks since I finished the book; I wanted to take some time to think about it before I posted a review. Equilibrium is definitely a novel that will appeal to any woman who found love a struggle, but chose to love anyway. From the first page, I was sucked into Laura's world. Revisiting her husband's slow, destructive spiral was painful, but seeing those mental health issues resurface after his death . . . scary. Thomson captured Laura's fear with such detail and depth that I felt fearful myself.
Thomson writes with such authority and grace. She's an author to watch. One more thing--read this book!
Thomson writes with such authority and grace. She's an author to watch. One more thing--read this book!
October 22, 2013
What a wonderful debut--and a thought-provoking page-turner about a family struggling to deal with the stigma of suicide and the legacy of bipolar disorder. I love fiction that chips away at the stereotypes of mental illness, and I was thrilled that the author focused on the genetic component. (I do have a family member with bipolar.) Despite the dark subject matter, however, this is a very hopeful read. The characters are all fabulous, but I think Darcy is my favorite. She's so unexpected. I loved her voice and the decisions she makes. She's a wonderful combination of troubled teen, grieving daughter, and old soul. I can't wait to see what Ms Thomson writes next!
November 16, 2014
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I unexpectedly received a copy of this book in the mail from Kensington and for that I will give my honest opinion. Thank you!
This is a beautiful story of one family who is learning how to cope in the aftermath of their husband/father's battle with mental illness and his suicide one year earlier. The story centres around Laura and her daughter Darcy and the pages are filled with emotion, guilt and uncertainty as they try to move on with their lives.
Laura is trying to figure out how to move on when her entire life was spent caring for her husband, worrying whether he was taking his meds and trying to be the voice of reason. In the back of her mind is the concern that her children may end up with the same mental illness. Her life has been about taking care of others with no thought for herself. Her struggle becomes more complicated when she starts to have thoughts that she thought were buried forever about her new tenant.
Darcy is also struggling with life without her father. They shared a special bond and she harbours some guilt over his death. At the same time she finds herself with the typical trials and tribulations of a teenage girl when a new boy comes into her life. Outwardly she appears rebellious and cold but inside she is struggling with her feelings of sadness, anger, hurt and betrayal.
I thought that Thomson penned a beautiful and heart wrenching story of how mental illness can impact not just the person living with it but also the network of people surrounding that person. She was able to effectively get the enormous range of emotions to resonate on the pages. I was easily able to empathise with the characters in the book. The emotions felt honest and realistic. It was a very solid read.
I unexpectedly received a copy of this book in the mail from Kensington and for that I will give my honest opinion. Thank you!
This is a beautiful story of one family who is learning how to cope in the aftermath of their husband/father's battle with mental illness and his suicide one year earlier. The story centres around Laura and her daughter Darcy and the pages are filled with emotion, guilt and uncertainty as they try to move on with their lives.
Laura is trying to figure out how to move on when her entire life was spent caring for her husband, worrying whether he was taking his meds and trying to be the voice of reason. In the back of her mind is the concern that her children may end up with the same mental illness. Her life has been about taking care of others with no thought for herself. Her struggle becomes more complicated when she starts to have thoughts that she thought were buried forever about her new tenant.
Darcy is also struggling with life without her father. They shared a special bond and she harbours some guilt over his death. At the same time she finds herself with the typical trials and tribulations of a teenage girl when a new boy comes into her life. Outwardly she appears rebellious and cold but inside she is struggling with her feelings of sadness, anger, hurt and betrayal.
I thought that Thomson penned a beautiful and heart wrenching story of how mental illness can impact not just the person living with it but also the network of people surrounding that person. She was able to effectively get the enormous range of emotions to resonate on the pages. I was easily able to empathise with the characters in the book. The emotions felt honest and realistic. It was a very solid read.
February 22, 2014
A wonderful debut by Lorrie Thomson! EQUILIBRIUM is a lovely story that sucked me in from the very first pages, the kind of book I found myself thinking about even when I wasn't reading. I was continuously longing to find the time to read when I didn't have the time - a page here, a chapter there, because I couldn't wait to find out what was happening in the lives of Laura and Aidan, Darcy and Troy. What I enjoyed most about the novel were the characters, who I found to be entirely genuine from page 1 to the very end of the book. From their inner thoughts to the dialogue between characters, I found it to be natural and authentic. I was utterly impressed by how real these character seemed to me. EQUILIBRIUM is a story of love and family drama (of which, in one way or another, we can all relate), and about finding the strength and courage to overcome the hardships in our lives. A beautiful story! Looking forward to Lorrie's next novel WHAT'S LEFT BEHIND in August!
September 11, 2014
I didn't really know what to expect from this book when I picked it up, and I was very pleasantly surprised. I thought it was a great book. It tells the story of Laura Klein, whose husband committed suicide a year ago after a long struggle with mental illness. The effects upon Laura and the couple's two children, Darcy and Troy, are severe. As they struggle to get past the grief, they all face challenges. Darcy is dating a troubled boy, Troy's attitude has suffered, and Laura is interested in her new tenant, Aidan, an emergency room physician.
I loved the characters in this one, and the storyline was touching and poignant. It kept me interested, and I was rooting that all would turn out well for this grieving family.
I loved the characters in this one, and the storyline was touching and poignant. It kept me interested, and I was rooting that all would turn out well for this grieving family.
July 22, 2015
I finished Equilibrium in two days.
Lorrie Thomson's writing style is grace and beauty. Her words flow seamlessly to allow self-reflection and meditation on the deeper issues of life with no threat of carb overload. This debut novel is not cookie cutter writing, but an exciting glimpse of what is certain to be an enduring and successful career of a gifted storyteller.
Lorrie Thomson's writing style is grace and beauty. Her words flow seamlessly to allow self-reflection and meditation on the deeper issues of life with no threat of carb overload. This debut novel is not cookie cutter writing, but an exciting glimpse of what is certain to be an enduring and successful career of a gifted storyteller.
October 26, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed Lorrie's debut. I've had some experience with bi-polar individuals, and she handled the guilt and sorrow of suicide realistically--and with hope.
September 27, 2013
As seen on my blog:
The ultimate betrayal. A family thrown into turmoil after a selfish choice, the result of a lifelong sickness. I've read books about loss, but not many about characters that chose to leave their families, that chose suicide as the solution to end their pain. I feel like Equilibrium was a poignant look into the aftermath of such a loss, a family at the edges of grief, even after a year. However, I feel like the book lacked some character-building, so as a result, I couldn't sympathize with their pain as much as I could have.
Equilibrium was told from 2 points of view, Laura, the widowed mother, and her 15-year-old promiscuous daughter, Darcy. Along with Laura's 13-year-old son, Troy, the 3 remaining family members of Jack Klein are still feeling his loss in a huge way, even 12 months later. Laura is conflicted with the exhaustion she felt from dealing with Jack's bipolar disorder, and the empty spot her husband left behind in her heart. Add the mix her constant fear of her children developing their father's sickness, and Laura is close to the breaking point. Help comes in the form of a new tenant, Adian, the man who rents out her late husband's studio apartment, the one Jack used to tirelessly write his novels. An unlikely connection spurs between Aidan and the Klein family, one that begins to heal each member from the inside out.
I tried to grasp an early connection to one of the main characters in Equilibrium, but failed to do so without some force. The story line was touching, and tragic, but I was more motivated to read on mostly due to small moments of excitement, rather than the feel of the book, as a whole. I was drawn to Darcy, and her endless need to push the limits. She was reckless in way that made sense, considering her loss-her pain more clearly etched into her actions. With Laura, and Troy, I felt like their outbursts were planned, predictable, and without thought to what it was actually related to. The author's thoughts seemed scattered, the writing, and tenses, were confusing at times.
Aside from that though, the story line moved in a direction that made sense. The characters were likable enough to for you to lend some investment into their stories, and the ending was one that would satisfy the "happy ending" aficiandos. If you're looking for a quick read, but one that has a slightly deeper effect on the senses, Equilibrium is definitely one you should check out.
Recommended for Fans of: Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Women's Fiction.
The ultimate betrayal. A family thrown into turmoil after a selfish choice, the result of a lifelong sickness. I've read books about loss, but not many about characters that chose to leave their families, that chose suicide as the solution to end their pain. I feel like Equilibrium was a poignant look into the aftermath of such a loss, a family at the edges of grief, even after a year. However, I feel like the book lacked some character-building, so as a result, I couldn't sympathize with their pain as much as I could have.
Equilibrium was told from 2 points of view, Laura, the widowed mother, and her 15-year-old promiscuous daughter, Darcy. Along with Laura's 13-year-old son, Troy, the 3 remaining family members of Jack Klein are still feeling his loss in a huge way, even 12 months later. Laura is conflicted with the exhaustion she felt from dealing with Jack's bipolar disorder, and the empty spot her husband left behind in her heart. Add the mix her constant fear of her children developing their father's sickness, and Laura is close to the breaking point. Help comes in the form of a new tenant, Adian, the man who rents out her late husband's studio apartment, the one Jack used to tirelessly write his novels. An unlikely connection spurs between Aidan and the Klein family, one that begins to heal each member from the inside out.
I tried to grasp an early connection to one of the main characters in Equilibrium, but failed to do so without some force. The story line was touching, and tragic, but I was more motivated to read on mostly due to small moments of excitement, rather than the feel of the book, as a whole. I was drawn to Darcy, and her endless need to push the limits. She was reckless in way that made sense, considering her loss-her pain more clearly etched into her actions. With Laura, and Troy, I felt like their outbursts were planned, predictable, and without thought to what it was actually related to. The author's thoughts seemed scattered, the writing, and tenses, were confusing at times.
Aside from that though, the story line moved in a direction that made sense. The characters were likable enough to for you to lend some investment into their stories, and the ending was one that would satisfy the "happy ending" aficiandos. If you're looking for a quick read, but one that has a slightly deeper effect on the senses, Equilibrium is definitely one you should check out.
Recommended for Fans of: Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Women's Fiction.
October 3, 2013
A year ago Laura's husband committed suicide. Diagnosed bipolar, for years Laura had juggled managing his illness, trying to get him to take his meds and his writing career with the care of their two children, home and her own almost non-existent writing.
A year on, Laura thinks they are all coping well. She has finally redecorated the studio apartment where she found her husband's body all those months before and her friends have found her the ideal tenant, a good looking young doctor, who comes with references and clearance.
So far so good but Laura still has nightmares and anxiety attacks about the day she found her husband, the day she couldn't save him and when 13 year old son starts to display some tendency towards the same illness as his father Laura's anxiety grows. Then there is 15 year old daughter Darcy; daddy's girl Darcy is perhaps the one struggling the most, headed on a downward spiral with bad boy Nick as she has to contend with her burgeoning sexuality contesting with her mother's warnings about pre-marital sex and a feeling of guilt about her father with an overpowering need to just forget.
This is a very powerful novel about the effects of mental illness and one that is written with a sensitivity and knowledge that in no way undermines either the inflicted or their family. The stigma and effects of mental illness are born by all the family not just the sufferer and even after the inflicted one has taken the decision to end his life, the lives of his family go on battling that stigma and it's effects. Laura cannot stop thinking about the chances of her children developing the illness, always on the watch for any tell tale sign. The burden his illness has placed on his children, not just because they are the talk of the town but because it meant a lot of covering up his quirks when alive and they too know that they could end up like that. And then Laura has the knowledge that no matter what she did she couldn't save him but she needs to save her children.
Caught up in grief, regret, guilt and fear, the family finally, through ups and downs and with the support of tenant Aiden find a way to move forward. For Laura that is falling in love, beginning again. For Darcy it is falling in love but knowing how far is far enough when troubled bad boy Nick takes things too far. For Troy is it finding a man that can truly be a father. For them all it is forgiving each other and their father and husband and learning things can be different.
I really enjoyed this novel and found the depiction of Jack's illness frighteningly realistic, it really does show an awareness of the truth behind bipolar disorder and exactly how it can affect family and friends as well as the person inflicted; very eye opening. I also enjoyed the honest if sometimes painful portrayal of the family. Darcy as the troubled and 'trying not to show it' teenage girl with all the angst and worries of friendships, sex and boys as well as her dad; and Troy as the geeky jock who is caught between worrying how he can ever cope without a dad and knowing that his dad wasn't much use even if he'd lived. Laura is alive as the guilt ridden, yet angry widow, coping with everyone's grief but underneath still affected by all that is going on and needing to more forward and I was very glad that she did find happiness.
A very thoughtful and thought provoking book.
Thanks to netgalley for the review copy.
A year on, Laura thinks they are all coping well. She has finally redecorated the studio apartment where she found her husband's body all those months before and her friends have found her the ideal tenant, a good looking young doctor, who comes with references and clearance.
So far so good but Laura still has nightmares and anxiety attacks about the day she found her husband, the day she couldn't save him and when 13 year old son starts to display some tendency towards the same illness as his father Laura's anxiety grows. Then there is 15 year old daughter Darcy; daddy's girl Darcy is perhaps the one struggling the most, headed on a downward spiral with bad boy Nick as she has to contend with her burgeoning sexuality contesting with her mother's warnings about pre-marital sex and a feeling of guilt about her father with an overpowering need to just forget.
This is a very powerful novel about the effects of mental illness and one that is written with a sensitivity and knowledge that in no way undermines either the inflicted or their family. The stigma and effects of mental illness are born by all the family not just the sufferer and even after the inflicted one has taken the decision to end his life, the lives of his family go on battling that stigma and it's effects. Laura cannot stop thinking about the chances of her children developing the illness, always on the watch for any tell tale sign. The burden his illness has placed on his children, not just because they are the talk of the town but because it meant a lot of covering up his quirks when alive and they too know that they could end up like that. And then Laura has the knowledge that no matter what she did she couldn't save him but she needs to save her children.
Caught up in grief, regret, guilt and fear, the family finally, through ups and downs and with the support of tenant Aiden find a way to move forward. For Laura that is falling in love, beginning again. For Darcy it is falling in love but knowing how far is far enough when troubled bad boy Nick takes things too far. For Troy is it finding a man that can truly be a father. For them all it is forgiving each other and their father and husband and learning things can be different.
I really enjoyed this novel and found the depiction of Jack's illness frighteningly realistic, it really does show an awareness of the truth behind bipolar disorder and exactly how it can affect family and friends as well as the person inflicted; very eye opening. I also enjoyed the honest if sometimes painful portrayal of the family. Darcy as the troubled and 'trying not to show it' teenage girl with all the angst and worries of friendships, sex and boys as well as her dad; and Troy as the geeky jock who is caught between worrying how he can ever cope without a dad and knowing that his dad wasn't much use even if he'd lived. Laura is alive as the guilt ridden, yet angry widow, coping with everyone's grief but underneath still affected by all that is going on and needing to more forward and I was very glad that she did find happiness.
A very thoughtful and thought provoking book.
Thanks to netgalley for the review copy.
September 3, 2024
I was first drawn to this book by the cover and the cover blurb....”Life is a balancing act...” Then I read the synopsis and knew this was a book I had to pick up!
Laura Klein is a widow with two teenaged children. One year ago, her bipolar husband committed suicide, and the family is still struggling with the after effects; not only the affects of his suicide, but also the affects of watching him battle his illness for many years. Laura always has in the back of her mind that the illness may have been passed on to her children, Darcy and Troy, and doesn’t quite realize that her children share this same fear. Darcy is fifteen and going through a rough time. She becomes involved with the new boy, Nick, a ‘bad’ boy, and together they test Laura’s boundaries. Troy is a thoughtful and quiet thirteen year old. As the anniversary of her husband’s death approaches, Laura realizes that the money is running out, and before long she will need to find a job. So when her friend suggests she get a renter, she agrees to rent her husband's former studio apartment to a young and attractive emergency room doctor, who quickly becomes more than a tenant.
The book started out a little slow, especially with the telling of Laura’s history with her husband; how they met and their stuggles with his illness. But the story picked up steam rapidly. Towards the end, there was even a bit of suspense involving Darcy and Nick. The book spent a lot of time on the relationship of Laura and Darcy, and their feelings. I would have liked to have seen a bit more of Troy and what he was thinking and feeling. Sometimes he was ‘just there’ in the background, not really doing much to move the story along. I also would have liked to have learned more about Darcy’s friends, Cam and Heather, and where their friendship with Darcy was headed at the end of the book. And I REALLY would have liked to have known more about what happened with Nick. He may have been my favorite character in the book; a ‘typical bad boy’ but underneath it all, a good, but very confused, kid.
This would make an excellent book club selection. There is plenty to dicuss with subjects ranging from mental illness to abuse to tough teen issues like drugs, alcohol, and sex. There are also questions at the end of the book to help guide your discussion.
My Rating: ★★★1/2 3-1/2 Stars
SOURCE: I received a copy of this book through TLC Book Tours in return for an honest review!
Laura Klein is a widow with two teenaged children. One year ago, her bipolar husband committed suicide, and the family is still struggling with the after effects; not only the affects of his suicide, but also the affects of watching him battle his illness for many years. Laura always has in the back of her mind that the illness may have been passed on to her children, Darcy and Troy, and doesn’t quite realize that her children share this same fear. Darcy is fifteen and going through a rough time. She becomes involved with the new boy, Nick, a ‘bad’ boy, and together they test Laura’s boundaries. Troy is a thoughtful and quiet thirteen year old. As the anniversary of her husband’s death approaches, Laura realizes that the money is running out, and before long she will need to find a job. So when her friend suggests she get a renter, she agrees to rent her husband's former studio apartment to a young and attractive emergency room doctor, who quickly becomes more than a tenant.
The book started out a little slow, especially with the telling of Laura’s history with her husband; how they met and their stuggles with his illness. But the story picked up steam rapidly. Towards the end, there was even a bit of suspense involving Darcy and Nick. The book spent a lot of time on the relationship of Laura and Darcy, and their feelings. I would have liked to have seen a bit more of Troy and what he was thinking and feeling. Sometimes he was ‘just there’ in the background, not really doing much to move the story along. I also would have liked to have learned more about Darcy’s friends, Cam and Heather, and where their friendship with Darcy was headed at the end of the book. And I REALLY would have liked to have known more about what happened with Nick. He may have been my favorite character in the book; a ‘typical bad boy’ but underneath it all, a good, but very confused, kid.
This would make an excellent book club selection. There is plenty to dicuss with subjects ranging from mental illness to abuse to tough teen issues like drugs, alcohol, and sex. There are also questions at the end of the book to help guide your discussion.
My Rating: ★★★1/2 3-1/2 Stars
SOURCE: I received a copy of this book through TLC Book Tours in return for an honest review!
August 2, 2013
One year ago, Laura's husband Jack committed suicide after a long battle with bipolar disorder. Laura has spent the year in a fog of grief, wrapping up her husband's affairs and helping her two teenage children to adjust to life without a father. Now, twelve months on, it's time to think about moving on. Semi-reluctantly, she agrees to lease Jack's studio to a handsome doctor. Meanwhile her daughter, Darcy, is embroiled in her first serious romantic relationship with a fellow troubled teen. The book switches between Laura and Darcy's point of view (Laura being referred to as "Mom" in the Darcy chapters) and deals with both women coming to terms with the heritage that Jack's illness has left them with.
This is Lorrie Thomson's first novel and she was inspired in part by her own son's mental illness. The story gets you thinking about the way that someone's mental illness creates long lasting issues for their entire family. For example, Laura is continually alert to potential symptoms in her own children, which causes her significant anxiety. I did feel however that the author tells us too often what is going on in people's heads rather than giving the reader space to make connections of their own. I also never warmed to Laura as a character. She didn't become real to me in the way that Darcy did.
The writing occasionally feels repetitive or clunky. For example, this excerpt: "She couldn't help but sigh, even though it usually irritated her daughter. She couldn't help but love her daughter more than ever. She couldn't help but break into a grin and share the good news."
Nevertheless this is an easy book to read that feels very realistic and is quite thought provoking.
I received this book for review from Net Galley.
This is Lorrie Thomson's first novel and she was inspired in part by her own son's mental illness. The story gets you thinking about the way that someone's mental illness creates long lasting issues for their entire family. For example, Laura is continually alert to potential symptoms in her own children, which causes her significant anxiety. I did feel however that the author tells us too often what is going on in people's heads rather than giving the reader space to make connections of their own. I also never warmed to Laura as a character. She didn't become real to me in the way that Darcy did.
The writing occasionally feels repetitive or clunky. For example, this excerpt: "She couldn't help but sigh, even though it usually irritated her daughter. She couldn't help but love her daughter more than ever. She couldn't help but break into a grin and share the good news."
Nevertheless this is an easy book to read that feels very realistic and is quite thought provoking.
I received this book for review from Net Galley.
April 1, 2016
It's hard to believe this was the author's first book. It was really good. I didn't want to put it down, read it in 2 days. Sad, compelling, had to laugh at darcy's laughing reaction at something, this was hilarious to me for some reason. Happy in parts as well, this book had tons of emotions going on in it. I will definately look for her next book.
In the year since her husband died, Laura Klein's world has shifted on its axis. It's not just that she's raising two children alone--fact is, Laura always did the parenting for both of them. But now her fifteen-year-old daughter, Darcy, is dating a boy with a fast car and faster hands, and thirteen-year-old Troy's attitude has plummeted along with his voice. Just when she's resigning herself to a life of worry and selfless support, her charismatic new tenant offers what Laura least expects: a second chance.
Darcy isn't surprised her mom doesn't understand her, though she never imagined her suddenly acting like a love-struck teen herself. With Troy starting to show signs of their father's bipolar disorder, and her best friend increasingly secretive, Darcy turns to her new boyfriend, Nick, for support. Yet Nick has a troubled side of his own, forcing Darcy toward life-altering choices.
Exploring the effects of grief on both mother and daughter, Equilibrium is a thoughtful, resolutely uplifting novel about finding the balance between holding on and letting go, between knowing when to mourn and when to hope, and between the love we seek and the love we choose to give.
February 16, 2014
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Received this personalized and signed copy directly from the author.
I won it from a goodreads giveaway.
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I finished this book last night.... and I really enjoyed the story and Thomson's writing style. It was an easy read... the story just flowed so well and was hard to put down.
The characters are well developed and have surprising depth. I found similarities between Laura and myself that I hadn't thought about...
Her teenaged daughter, Darcy, was a stronger person than I expected... The glimpses back to Jack's bipolar disorder and eventual suicide and how it intertwined the family relationships was heart breaking at times, but it did make the family stronger and more supportive of one another.
I am so glad I won this book from goodreads. It has introduced me to a new 'favorite' author. I look forward to reading Lorrie Thomson's newest release "What's Left Behind".
Received this personalized and signed copy directly from the author.
I won it from a goodreads giveaway.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fb...
I finished this book last night.... and I really enjoyed the story and Thomson's writing style. It was an easy read... the story just flowed so well and was hard to put down.
The characters are well developed and have surprising depth. I found similarities between Laura and myself that I hadn't thought about...
Her teenaged daughter, Darcy, was a stronger person than I expected... The glimpses back to Jack's bipolar disorder and eventual suicide and how it intertwined the family relationships was heart breaking at times, but it did make the family stronger and more supportive of one another.
I am so glad I won this book from goodreads. It has introduced me to a new 'favorite' author. I look forward to reading Lorrie Thomson's newest release "What's Left Behind".
August 14, 2014
Equilibrium by Lorrie Thomson is a debut novel. It does not sound, feel or look like one though. It is a well-written thoughtful novel about a family, who is searching for their equilibrium. A novel that makes you realize that much of life is a balancing act.
Laura, the mom is raising her two teenagers alone after her husband’s death. She was pretty much raising them alone before his death. However his death has thrown the family into this chasm of the unknown. When do you stop being angry? When do you begin to allow yourself to move on? The two teens Darcy and Troy are still in pain. Laura needs to protect and comfort them, but who protects and comforts her. Darcy’s new boyfriend is all she wanted and needed, but is that really how it goes, as she pushes away forever friends. Troy’s behavior becomes erratic, what does that mean for the family? Do you take a second chance?
The questions of life we use to balance us. The questions help us move forward. This is a novel that was written around the question, but still allows you to find your way with them.
Laura, the mom is raising her two teenagers alone after her husband’s death. She was pretty much raising them alone before his death. However his death has thrown the family into this chasm of the unknown. When do you stop being angry? When do you begin to allow yourself to move on? The two teens Darcy and Troy are still in pain. Laura needs to protect and comfort them, but who protects and comforts her. Darcy’s new boyfriend is all she wanted and needed, but is that really how it goes, as she pushes away forever friends. Troy’s behavior becomes erratic, what does that mean for the family? Do you take a second chance?
The questions of life we use to balance us. The questions help us move forward. This is a novel that was written around the question, but still allows you to find your way with them.
June 25, 2016
This debut novel was an easy story to relate to and become engrossed in. Lorrie writes with much conviction and knowledge about a family struggling with issues such as suicide and mental illness. Her writing is exceptional! The story kept me thinking about the characters and the issues even when I wasn't reading it. It's clear Lorrie Thomson is a gifted storyteller. I can't wait to read her next book!
February 18, 2014
I won this book from Goodreads. This was an amazing book. It grabbed me from beginning to the end. Very well written. Laura had to continue her life with her two teenage kids after the death of her husband. She had to learn to put herself first again, and find her balance. We can all learn from the viewpoints of both Laura and her daughter, Darcy. Really enjoyed this book.
September 8, 2013
Thomson's debut is heartfelt and smart. Laura is a sympathetic character who's been dealt a tough hand in her life, but struggles to do her best by her kids. The teenagers are especially well-drawn, and I think this author should consider trying her hand at a YA next! Brava, Lorrie.
September 12, 2014
This did not read like a debut novel. Very well written. Handled some very complex mental health issues with sensitivity, and made the story and plot believable, as well as the characters likable. I will definitely read a second novel by this author.
October 12, 2014
Sorrow and its effects are the central theme of Equilibrium. The story is an amazing look at how Laura and her children deal with unthinkable sorrow and find they equilibrium from within and in their relationships with each other and their friends.
Want to read
April 3, 2015Can't wait to read this first novel by my friend Lorrie Thomson. Watching for it to be coming out September '13.
August 15, 2016
I enjoyed this story and could relate to the mother/daughter relationship.
December 27, 2014
SHOCKED to find out this is a debut novel! Fantastic work.
December 29, 2013
Impressive first novel, and an engaging read.
May 3, 2020
"In the year since her husband died, (suicide, bipolar) Laura Klein's world has shifted on its axis. It's not just that she's raising two children alone--fact is, Laura always did the parenting for both of them. But now her fifteen-year-old daughter, Darcy, is dating a boy with a fast car and faster hands, and thirteen-year-old Troy's attitude has plummeted along with his voice. Just when she's resigning herself to a life of worry and selfless support, her charismatic new tenant offers what Laura least expects: a second chance.
Darcy isn't surprised her mom doesn't understand her, though she never imagined her suddenly acting like a love-struck teen herself. With Troy starting to show signs of their father's bipolar disorder, and her best friend increasingly secretive, Darcy turns to her new boyfriend, Nick, for support. Yet Nick has a troubled side of his own, forcing Darcy toward life-altering choices.
Exploring the effects of grief on both mother and daughter, Equilibrium is a thoughtful, resolutely uplifting novel about finding the balance between holding on and letting go, between knowing when to mourn and when to hope, and between the love we seek and the love we choose to give."
Darcy isn't surprised her mom doesn't understand her, though she never imagined her suddenly acting like a love-struck teen herself. With Troy starting to show signs of their father's bipolar disorder, and her best friend increasingly secretive, Darcy turns to her new boyfriend, Nick, for support. Yet Nick has a troubled side of his own, forcing Darcy toward life-altering choices.
Exploring the effects of grief on both mother and daughter, Equilibrium is a thoughtful, resolutely uplifting novel about finding the balance between holding on and letting go, between knowing when to mourn and when to hope, and between the love we seek and the love we choose to give."
Read
January 5, 2020The cover drew me to this book and wanting to read a new author. I feel this started out very slow and somewhere in the middle of the book I was losing interest but something kept me going. Glad I did, because the story did pick up.
I realize that this was a story about mother/ daughter relationships but I just wish we got to know more about Laura’s son Troy. Also I think the author could have expanded more on Nick and give him more depth to the story. But in the end, this story did bring to light the effects bipolar disorder affects the whole family.
I realize that this was a story about mother/ daughter relationships but I just wish we got to know more about Laura’s son Troy. Also I think the author could have expanded more on Nick and give him more depth to the story. But in the end, this story did bring to light the effects bipolar disorder affects the whole family.
November 30, 2017
Another book that has a cheesy feel-good ending. It ruins it for me. I liked the struggles that the main characters go through, especially the daughter Darcy. But not the mother’s romance, especially not the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2024
Family dealing with the suicide of the father with bipolar disorder one year after his passing. Teenager issues. Mother's concern about whether her children will display similar symptoms. Quick and easy read
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