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The Beautiful Words
Two best friends, one summer night, and twenty years of silence ... what happened at the lighthouse?
The stunning, haunting new novel from the author of The Lost Summers of Driftwood.
Sylvie is a lover of words and a collector of stories, only she has lost her own. She has no words for that night at the lighthouse when their lives changed forever. What happened to cleave her apart from her best friend and soulmate, Kase?
Sylvie yearns to rekindle their deep connection, so when Kase invites her to the wild Tasmanian coast to celebrate her 40th birthday, she accepts - despite the ghosts she must face.
As Sylvie struggles to find her feet among old friends, she bonds with local taxi boat driver Holden. But he is hiding from the world, too.
Through an inscription in an old book, Sylvie and Kase discover their mothers have a history, hidden from their daughters. As they unpick what took place before they were born, they're forced to face the rift in their own friendship, and the question of whether it's ever okay to keep a secret to protect the person you love.
Vanessa McCausland's enthralling new novel is about betrayal and forgiveness, the stories we tell, and the healing power of words.
'This evocative novel completely captivated me and I didn't want it to end. Vanessa McCausland is a remarkable storyteller.' Petronella McGovern
'Vanessa McCausland doesn't disappoint! Lyrical and evocative, the trauma and emotion rises off the pages along with the salt spray and the haunting cries of the eagles.' Fiona Lowe
'McCausland's poetic writing makes the heart sing. Graceful and glorious.' Alexandra Joel
'Reading a Vanessa McCausland book is like indulging in fine dark chocolate - her writing is decadent, dark, complex and luxurious. In this book she takes her lyricism to a new level, reveling in the power of words and stories to both heal and harm.' Cassie Hamer
'Rich with atmosphere and moral conflicts, The Beautiful Words sensitively explores the intricacies of two generations bound by secrets, with McCausland's trademark, hauntingly lyrical prose. It's a gifted storyteller that keeps me up way past my bedtime, but once again, I found myself unable to put Vanessa McCausland's novel down.' Maya Linnell
'Intriguing ... The Beautiful Words is a compelling story in a uniquely Australian setting for fans of Hannah Richell or Emily Bitto.' Books + Publishing
'Breathtaking ... Rich with atmosphere and written in haunting, melodic prose, The Beautiful Words is a powerful and timely work of fiction that celebrates the importance of female friendship and women's voices. Ultimately, though, it is a tale of healing, and a love letter to words and the power of storytelling.' Better Reading
'A clever and wonderful book' Herald Sun
The stunning, haunting new novel from the author of The Lost Summers of Driftwood.
Sylvie is a lover of words and a collector of stories, only she has lost her own. She has no words for that night at the lighthouse when their lives changed forever. What happened to cleave her apart from her best friend and soulmate, Kase?
Sylvie yearns to rekindle their deep connection, so when Kase invites her to the wild Tasmanian coast to celebrate her 40th birthday, she accepts - despite the ghosts she must face.
As Sylvie struggles to find her feet among old friends, she bonds with local taxi boat driver Holden. But he is hiding from the world, too.
Through an inscription in an old book, Sylvie and Kase discover their mothers have a history, hidden from their daughters. As they unpick what took place before they were born, they're forced to face the rift in their own friendship, and the question of whether it's ever okay to keep a secret to protect the person you love.
Vanessa McCausland's enthralling new novel is about betrayal and forgiveness, the stories we tell, and the healing power of words.
'This evocative novel completely captivated me and I didn't want it to end. Vanessa McCausland is a remarkable storyteller.' Petronella McGovern
'Vanessa McCausland doesn't disappoint! Lyrical and evocative, the trauma and emotion rises off the pages along with the salt spray and the haunting cries of the eagles.' Fiona Lowe
'McCausland's poetic writing makes the heart sing. Graceful and glorious.' Alexandra Joel
'Reading a Vanessa McCausland book is like indulging in fine dark chocolate - her writing is decadent, dark, complex and luxurious. In this book she takes her lyricism to a new level, reveling in the power of words and stories to both heal and harm.' Cassie Hamer
'Rich with atmosphere and moral conflicts, The Beautiful Words sensitively explores the intricacies of two generations bound by secrets, with McCausland's trademark, hauntingly lyrical prose. It's a gifted storyteller that keeps me up way past my bedtime, but once again, I found myself unable to put Vanessa McCausland's novel down.' Maya Linnell
'Intriguing ... The Beautiful Words is a compelling story in a uniquely Australian setting for fans of Hannah Richell or Emily Bitto.' Books + Publishing
'Breathtaking ... Rich with atmosphere and written in haunting, melodic prose, The Beautiful Words is a powerful and timely work of fiction that celebrates the importance of female friendship and women's voices. Ultimately, though, it is a tale of healing, and a love letter to words and the power of storytelling.' Better Reading
'A clever and wonderful book' Herald Sun
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First published December 1, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
August 22, 2022
This is a lovely book of many layers, and generations of women. Sylvie lives a reclusive life. She cleans houses, but it is more than this, she does this with a uniquenss that only she can posess. The dead leave physical items behind, but she cares for these and sorts out the special things she comes across - books and the like. She is a very quirky woman, wearing her beautiful dresses while working, she respects the dead.
She receives an unexpected invitation from her former best friend, Kase. They had not seen each other for over 20 years. Reluctantly she accepts the invitation to the Tasmanian island that Kase now owns, she is a succesful writer now, but funnily enough Sylvie was always a better writer than Kase.
Sylvie still is the outsider, her presence is unwelcome by the other party attendees who used to be her friends. Kase’s brother was killed all those years ago, and Sylvie gained a brain inury from this, and also a physical injury came from this when she is under stress, and stressed she was at many times during this 40th birthday celebration. Sylive is looked down upon by most, especially when they can’t believe she chose to be a cleaner given her writing talents, and these comments are constant. Kase is also now best friends with one of her and Sylvie’s arch nemesis from childhood, this certainly has Sylvie rattled. She is a keen observer, even if she holds her cards close.
At the core of this story is serious and burning friendship, of lies and deceipt and how far some will go to hide their place in a disaster, where a friend was killed. Where those undervalued are happy to stick to themselves, keep their head down and work hard to hide some extreme loneliness.
The start of each chapter was labellled a word, followed by the definintion, which aplty fit the chapter. Also the cover was perfect, in the form of a notebook if one looked hard enough. Sylvie would always reach for her notebook, when she felt her mind would not support her feelings, she would write them down. It was her crutch, and many times during the trip she had to fight the urge to use it. She wasn’t herself there, although she was blossoming and we could see that happen slowly, with the help of Holden, a man who has also been troubled from a tragedy in his past.
This was a serious and heartfelt read, the audio delivered perfectly thanks to Tanya Schneider. Relationships were the highlight here, but also heavy ensconced into the storyline were themes such as sexual assault. I didn’t realise this was going to be a part of this read, as I have read so many dark themes such as this lately, so as much as this was a special book, it is not a light one.
The 1990’s were captured wonderfully during the girls childhood, as was the generation before where Sylvie and Kase’s mother's relationship form an important part of the narrative, also. This was a well written story, and I have since added another of this author’s work to my list.
She receives an unexpected invitation from her former best friend, Kase. They had not seen each other for over 20 years. Reluctantly she accepts the invitation to the Tasmanian island that Kase now owns, she is a succesful writer now, but funnily enough Sylvie was always a better writer than Kase.
Sylvie still is the outsider, her presence is unwelcome by the other party attendees who used to be her friends. Kase’s brother was killed all those years ago, and Sylvie gained a brain inury from this, and also a physical injury came from this when she is under stress, and stressed she was at many times during this 40th birthday celebration. Sylive is looked down upon by most, especially when they can’t believe she chose to be a cleaner given her writing talents, and these comments are constant. Kase is also now best friends with one of her and Sylvie’s arch nemesis from childhood, this certainly has Sylvie rattled. She is a keen observer, even if she holds her cards close.
At the core of this story is serious and burning friendship, of lies and deceipt and how far some will go to hide their place in a disaster, where a friend was killed. Where those undervalued are happy to stick to themselves, keep their head down and work hard to hide some extreme loneliness.
The start of each chapter was labellled a word, followed by the definintion, which aplty fit the chapter. Also the cover was perfect, in the form of a notebook if one looked hard enough. Sylvie would always reach for her notebook, when she felt her mind would not support her feelings, she would write them down. It was her crutch, and many times during the trip she had to fight the urge to use it. She wasn’t herself there, although she was blossoming and we could see that happen slowly, with the help of Holden, a man who has also been troubled from a tragedy in his past.
This was a serious and heartfelt read, the audio delivered perfectly thanks to Tanya Schneider. Relationships were the highlight here, but also heavy ensconced into the storyline were themes such as sexual assault. I didn’t realise this was going to be a part of this read, as I have read so many dark themes such as this lately, so as much as this was a special book, it is not a light one.
The 1990’s were captured wonderfully during the girls childhood, as was the generation before where Sylvie and Kase’s mother's relationship form an important part of the narrative, also. This was a well written story, and I have since added another of this author’s work to my list.
March 4, 2022
Sylvie was a cleaner, but not just any cleaner. After someone passed away it was her job to clean out the last of the possessions and to get them ready for sale. Everything that was left was to go to charity or the tip. Sylvie felt a great deal of sadness as she went through people's precious items all of which has a history attached to them.
When Sylvie is invited to Kase’s fortieth birthday in Tasmania she accepts, but she hasn’t seen Kase for many years since the accident. Sylvie is unsure what kind of reception she will get, but she is hoping they can rebuild their friendship although deep down Sylvie knows the strong friendship they had all those years will never be the same again.
The Beautiful Words by Aussie author Vanessa McCausland is a well-written story about friendship, betrayal and forgiveness a story that will capture the hearts of anyone who reads it. With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review. Highly recommended.
When Sylvie is invited to Kase’s fortieth birthday in Tasmania she accepts, but she hasn’t seen Kase for many years since the accident. Sylvie is unsure what kind of reception she will get, but she is hoping they can rebuild their friendship although deep down Sylvie knows the strong friendship they had all those years will never be the same again.
The Beautiful Words by Aussie author Vanessa McCausland is a well-written story about friendship, betrayal and forgiveness a story that will capture the hearts of anyone who reads it. With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review. Highly recommended.
March 3, 2022
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The Beautiful Words by Vanessa McCausland. (2021).
Sylvie is a lover of words and a collector of stories but she has no words for that night at the lighthouse. What happened to cleave her apart from her best friend Kase? Sylvie misses their connection so when Kase invites her to the wild Tasmanian coast, she accepts. While Sylvie struggles to find her feet, she bonds with local taxi boat driver Holden, who is also hiding something. Then Sylvie and Kase discover their mothers have a hidden history. Unpicking that forces them to face their own rift, and question whether it's ever okay to keep a secret to protect the person you love.
I've read all of this author's novels so far, and this one joins the others in being an engrossing and emotional story. It really delves into the concept of true friendship and connection with exploration of how secrets, betrayals and forgiveness play a part in it. The book switches between multiple perspectives (Sylvie, Kase and their mothers Fran and Eve) across three timelines (the present, when Sylvie and Kase were teenagers, and when Fran and Eve were teenagers). The plot includes some pretty serious issues that causes ongoing trauma for all of the characters. No spoilers, but I did love how the book ended - you'll just have to read it to also appreciate it!
Overall: happily recommend this well-written absorbing novel.
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The Beautiful Words by Vanessa McCausland. (2021).
Sylvie is a lover of words and a collector of stories but she has no words for that night at the lighthouse. What happened to cleave her apart from her best friend Kase? Sylvie misses their connection so when Kase invites her to the wild Tasmanian coast, she accepts. While Sylvie struggles to find her feet, she bonds with local taxi boat driver Holden, who is also hiding something. Then Sylvie and Kase discover their mothers have a hidden history. Unpicking that forces them to face their own rift, and question whether it's ever okay to keep a secret to protect the person you love.
I've read all of this author's novels so far, and this one joins the others in being an engrossing and emotional story. It really delves into the concept of true friendship and connection with exploration of how secrets, betrayals and forgiveness play a part in it. The book switches between multiple perspectives (Sylvie, Kase and their mothers Fran and Eve) across three timelines (the present, when Sylvie and Kase were teenagers, and when Fran and Eve were teenagers). The plot includes some pretty serious issues that causes ongoing trauma for all of the characters. No spoilers, but I did love how the book ended - you'll just have to read it to also appreciate it!
Overall: happily recommend this well-written absorbing novel.
March 23, 2022
Just beautiful 🥰
The Beautiful Words indeed…
This book…these words…so intuitively evocative…so touchingly raw and heartfelt.
I’m just blown away by its easy uninhibited honesty.
My goodness what a talented author is Vanessa McCausland!
Personally, I would consider this book to be a modern classic.
It’s taken me some time to write this review because I honestly don’t know how I could do it justice, it feels presumptuous of me to try…but I must…even if I gush!
First I listened to the beautifully delivered (by Tanya Schneider) audio version and was nowhere near ready to leave it at the end, so I bought the book and started again, absorbing it even deeper this time.
The evolution of deep friendships and their unwitting roles in the slow demolition of their hopes and dreams.
The meeting of two souls who seem to be bound by destiny, or fated to play a role in a story that might have spanned generations.
This story is about so many beautiful and sad things, so many feelings; all leading inexorably to the same destinations.
It’s all here…
All the emotions are so realistically touched on with such intuitive sensitivity that you feel yourself empathising, like as a compassionate witness to the unfolding events.
Vanessa McCausland has an uncanny ability to put into words, those guarded things which are usually kept closest to the heart…sometimes even deeper…like soul deep.
She makes you pause, to dwell a moment longer on a particular scenario, because for just a moment there, you were caught unawares, touched in an unguarded moment.
This will surely be a hard act to follow. Definitely one for my “Keepers” shelf!
5 brilliant ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️s 💫
The Beautiful Words indeed…
This book…these words…so intuitively evocative…so touchingly raw and heartfelt.
I’m just blown away by its easy uninhibited honesty.
My goodness what a talented author is Vanessa McCausland!
Personally, I would consider this book to be a modern classic.
It’s taken me some time to write this review because I honestly don’t know how I could do it justice, it feels presumptuous of me to try…but I must…even if I gush!
First I listened to the beautifully delivered (by Tanya Schneider) audio version and was nowhere near ready to leave it at the end, so I bought the book and started again, absorbing it even deeper this time.
The evolution of deep friendships and their unwitting roles in the slow demolition of their hopes and dreams.
The meeting of two souls who seem to be bound by destiny, or fated to play a role in a story that might have spanned generations.
This story is about so many beautiful and sad things, so many feelings; all leading inexorably to the same destinations.
It’s all here…
All the emotions are so realistically touched on with such intuitive sensitivity that you feel yourself empathising, like as a compassionate witness to the unfolding events.
Vanessa McCausland has an uncanny ability to put into words, those guarded things which are usually kept closest to the heart…sometimes even deeper…like soul deep.
She makes you pause, to dwell a moment longer on a particular scenario, because for just a moment there, you were caught unawares, touched in an unguarded moment.
This will surely be a hard act to follow. Definitely one for my “Keepers” shelf!
5 brilliant ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️s 💫
January 7, 2022
Beautiful writing! Sylvie is middle aged, lives alone in Sydney, and works as a sort of cleaner, clearing out the houses of deceased people. She suffered a traumatic head injury 23 years earlier in an accident where her best friend, Kase’s brother, Tristan died. Kase visited Sylvie in hospital once and then cut all contact with her until now, Sylvie receives an invitation to her fortieth birthday party in Tasmania.
Sylvie is damaged from that experience, even though she cannot actually remember the accident and the events leading up to it and it’s a tough decision for her to attend the party. What follows was such a brilliant read. The location is a small island near Bruny Island, it’s atmospheric, rugged with wild weather. The story is an exploration of friendship and secrets and lies. It travels back in time to the girls friendship in 1996(the time of the accident) and also the teenage friendship between their mothers in 1967. The characters are well written and I enjoyed how the story built slowly until the terrible events are revealed. The importance of listening to women and supporting each other, I found it quite emotional reading the latter chapters. Another part of the book that adds a lot of richness to it is all the literary references as Sylvie is a big reader, she and Kase always wanted to be writers, now only Kase has achieved it. Bookshops, writing, reading, words and their meanings and particularly The Catcher in the Rye and The Bell Jar are all important elements. A powerful read.
Sylvie is damaged from that experience, even though she cannot actually remember the accident and the events leading up to it and it’s a tough decision for her to attend the party. What follows was such a brilliant read. The location is a small island near Bruny Island, it’s atmospheric, rugged with wild weather. The story is an exploration of friendship and secrets and lies. It travels back in time to the girls friendship in 1996(the time of the accident) and also the teenage friendship between their mothers in 1967. The characters are well written and I enjoyed how the story built slowly until the terrible events are revealed. The importance of listening to women and supporting each other, I found it quite emotional reading the latter chapters. Another part of the book that adds a lot of richness to it is all the literary references as Sylvie is a big reader, she and Kase always wanted to be writers, now only Kase has achieved it. Bookshops, writing, reading, words and their meanings and particularly The Catcher in the Rye and The Bell Jar are all important elements. A powerful read.
September 3, 2021
What a beautiful read. Empathic. Vulnerable. Tragic. I loved every page. It’s a beautiful read. Loved everything about it. Loved Sylvie, Kase, Fran, Eve and Holden x
The storyline should probably come with a trigger warning, it does delve into some very serious topics. But they are topics that absolutely need exploring in our society, and it is very sensitively done.
I feel so so lucky to have had the honour of reading an advanced copy, it doesn’t come out until December; I completely recommend it to absolutely everyone x
The storyline should probably come with a trigger warning, it does delve into some very serious topics. But they are topics that absolutely need exploring in our society, and it is very sensitively done.
I feel so so lucky to have had the honour of reading an advanced copy, it doesn’t come out until December; I completely recommend it to absolutely everyone x
July 17, 2022
Unfortunately this bookclub choice falls way below my expectations - although I will revisit McCausland’s work at a later stage based on the strength of the opening pages of ‘The Beautiful Words.’
For the rest, the book’s important message is muddied by plot complications, melodrama and unnecessary literary allusions.
For the rest, the book’s important message is muddied by plot complications, melodrama and unnecessary literary allusions.
November 29, 2021
Reading a Vanessa McCausland book is like indulging in fine dark chocolate - her writing is decadent, dark, complex and luxurious. In this book she takes her lyricism to a new level, reveling in the power of words and stories to both heal and harm. 'The Beautiful Words' is also a lovely exploration of powerful female friendships and their capacity to transcend grief and betrayal. As for the ending? Let's just say that, like the best of chocolates, the taste lingers satisfyingly on the tongue long after the last mouthful...
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November 16, 2021It’s a gifted storyteller that keeps me up way past my bedtime, but once again, I found myself unable to put Vanessa McCausland’s novel down. The Beautiful Words is all about friendships, memories and the words we cling to when all else fails. Rich with atmosphere and moral conflicts, the story is set on a rugged Tasmanian island. The main character Sylvie is every bit as isolated as the location, having cut herself off from the world after a brain injury in her teenage years. By contrast, her best friend Kase has gone on to have immense success as an author.
McCausland did an excellent job weaving together multiple timelines and sensitively exploring the intricacies of two generations bound by secrets, with her hauntingly lyrical prose. Many thanks to Harper Collins for an early review copy.
McCausland did an excellent job weaving together multiple timelines and sensitively exploring the intricacies of two generations bound by secrets, with her hauntingly lyrical prose. Many thanks to Harper Collins for an early review copy.
March 1, 2022
4.5 ⭐️ Wow. This book! I’ve really struggled to put down in writing where this book took me & how it made me feel. It’s incredible and if you aren’t familiar with Vanessa McCausland’s books, then read The Beautiful Words and, like me, you’ll be compelled to read her earlier books too.
Atmospheric and enthralling, this book is filled with beautiful prose & is completely bingeable. I couldn’t put it down!
The Beautiful Words is a story of secrets, lies, friendships, loss & strength told across three different timelines. As secrets resurface, the book took a turn I wasn’t expecting and it’s emotional, powerful and really relevant for current times. There’s a lot of pain within this book & multiple heavy trigger warnings. I won’t cite them here as they are plot spoilers, but if you have concerns about potential triggers, I encourage you to do your research on reviews.
I was transported to Tasmania by the author’s luscious descriptions of the setting, the food and the atmosphere. The Beautiful Words has left me absolutely yearning to go back to Tas (& make sure I visit Bruny Island next time!).
The book has a bit of everything - mystery, romance, drama, and notes of a thriller, supported by a brilliant cast of well-developed characters. I was blown away by Vanessa McCausland’s writing and her ability to tell such a layered and challenging story. I will absolutely be reading her entire backlist!
Atmospheric and enthralling, this book is filled with beautiful prose & is completely bingeable. I couldn’t put it down!
The Beautiful Words is a story of secrets, lies, friendships, loss & strength told across three different timelines. As secrets resurface, the book took a turn I wasn’t expecting and it’s emotional, powerful and really relevant for current times. There’s a lot of pain within this book & multiple heavy trigger warnings. I won’t cite them here as they are plot spoilers, but if you have concerns about potential triggers, I encourage you to do your research on reviews.
I was transported to Tasmania by the author’s luscious descriptions of the setting, the food and the atmosphere. The Beautiful Words has left me absolutely yearning to go back to Tas (& make sure I visit Bruny Island next time!).
The book has a bit of everything - mystery, romance, drama, and notes of a thriller, supported by a brilliant cast of well-developed characters. I was blown away by Vanessa McCausland’s writing and her ability to tell such a layered and challenging story. I will absolutely be reading her entire backlist!
December 17, 2021
Thank you Harper Collins and Vanessa for sending us a copy to read and review.
A story that explores the past, secrets, friendship, memories and saturated with charming prose.
When Sylvie gets an invitation to celebrate Kase’s 40th birthday in Tasmania, she carefully accepts knowing that the past may resurface.
She hasn’t seen Kase in more than two decades after an incident went wrong.
Sylvie struggles to make friends and contain relationships so she is hoping to rekindle a bond with Kase, her former best friend.
As they begin to mend they find an inscription in an old book they indicates their mothers also have history.
While healing the estrangement, trying to solve the past and keep a buried secret buried they each find a new respect and love for the other.
From the very beginning I was intrigued by The Beautiful Words and Sylvie quickly gained a place in my heart.
A stormy plot of generational friendships, rich characters, painful secrets and the heaviness of the past amongst a setting of seaside Tasmania.
Vanessa is an exceptional writer who continues to impress me with her striking novels.
From the powerful descriptive opening chapters, which are filled with atmospheric paragraphs to the final words on the very last page.
Emotional, moving and very enjoyable.
If the title and stunning cover doesn’t evoke the feeling to pick this book up then let me highly recommend that the tale inside is captivating, entertaining and thoroughly worth reading.
A very talented storyteller.
A story that explores the past, secrets, friendship, memories and saturated with charming prose.
When Sylvie gets an invitation to celebrate Kase’s 40th birthday in Tasmania, she carefully accepts knowing that the past may resurface.
She hasn’t seen Kase in more than two decades after an incident went wrong.
Sylvie struggles to make friends and contain relationships so she is hoping to rekindle a bond with Kase, her former best friend.
As they begin to mend they find an inscription in an old book they indicates their mothers also have history.
While healing the estrangement, trying to solve the past and keep a buried secret buried they each find a new respect and love for the other.
From the very beginning I was intrigued by The Beautiful Words and Sylvie quickly gained a place in my heart.
A stormy plot of generational friendships, rich characters, painful secrets and the heaviness of the past amongst a setting of seaside Tasmania.
Vanessa is an exceptional writer who continues to impress me with her striking novels.
From the powerful descriptive opening chapters, which are filled with atmospheric paragraphs to the final words on the very last page.
Emotional, moving and very enjoyable.
If the title and stunning cover doesn’t evoke the feeling to pick this book up then let me highly recommend that the tale inside is captivating, entertaining and thoroughly worth reading.
A very talented storyteller.
January 12, 2022
‘… the heaving bookshelves … which told her whole story, in the way that books map one’s internal journey through the world. She had tried to part with some of them, but it felt like giving away pieces of her soul.’
I loved this book. I feel more in tune with who I am having read this book. The ‘beautiful’ words from this book will stay with me forever.I started reading Beautiful Words on my Kindle but such is the nature of this tale - how it speaks to the heart of every book lover - I quickly had to buy a paperback (in actual fact, my daughter got it for me as she realised the connection I was forming with this book) so that I could fully immerse myself in the experience though highlighting and creating tabs of the wondrous experience that Vanessa provides her readers with in this unforgettable tale.
Vanessa wrote an article on the HarperCollins website (HERE) that shines a light on her own motivation and other similar books she has read that were based around a love of words. She was thrilled to finally gift us her book about books. With a main character who is a logophile (a lover of words) it's ironic and sad how she has lost her own story. ‘It’s a story about the stories we tell ourselves, the fallible nature of memory, and the power of words to heal.’ (Vaness McCausland)
‘She slipped a few books out, smoothing their worn covers, their browning pages, wondering about the others who had read them, the tea that might have been drunk over them. How their stories may have shaped their readers’ lives.’
I have read and loved all Vanessa’s previous books but her latest offering demonstrates how her writing has gone to the next level. In the lead character, Sylvie, you will find a friend. Vanessa’s ‘beautiful’ words exemplify such exquisite use of language that it is intoxicating (thus the necessary tabbing for future reference). Yes, there is a wonderful tale full of mystery, there is romance and there are locales so vividly described as to lose yourself in. Overarching are themes ranging from fate and fortune, to abuse and heartbreak. The nod to literary classics from Salinger (The Catcher in the Rye) and Plath (The Bell Jar) will have you making your own investigations to cement links made.
Reading this novel is to partake in a love story … a love story in celebration of words. The title could not be more apt. Vanessa has penned the ultimate indelible tale, equally compelling and tragic. You may wish to savour the words but these words will carry you along with a force of their own. Thank you Vanessa for writing a book that I felt such a connection to - there are not enough ‘beautiful’ words to convey just how much I loved this book.
‘I want to believe that there are more lives for us. But maybe that’s why we have books. Don’t you ever find it sad that you’re confined to your own story? That your life is bounded by your mind inside your own head?’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
I loved this book. I feel more in tune with who I am having read this book. The ‘beautiful’ words from this book will stay with me forever.I started reading Beautiful Words on my Kindle but such is the nature of this tale - how it speaks to the heart of every book lover - I quickly had to buy a paperback (in actual fact, my daughter got it for me as she realised the connection I was forming with this book) so that I could fully immerse myself in the experience though highlighting and creating tabs of the wondrous experience that Vanessa provides her readers with in this unforgettable tale.
Vanessa wrote an article on the HarperCollins website (HERE) that shines a light on her own motivation and other similar books she has read that were based around a love of words. She was thrilled to finally gift us her book about books. With a main character who is a logophile (a lover of words) it's ironic and sad how she has lost her own story. ‘It’s a story about the stories we tell ourselves, the fallible nature of memory, and the power of words to heal.’ (Vaness McCausland)
‘She slipped a few books out, smoothing their worn covers, their browning pages, wondering about the others who had read them, the tea that might have been drunk over them. How their stories may have shaped their readers’ lives.’
I have read and loved all Vanessa’s previous books but her latest offering demonstrates how her writing has gone to the next level. In the lead character, Sylvie, you will find a friend. Vanessa’s ‘beautiful’ words exemplify such exquisite use of language that it is intoxicating (thus the necessary tabbing for future reference). Yes, there is a wonderful tale full of mystery, there is romance and there are locales so vividly described as to lose yourself in. Overarching are themes ranging from fate and fortune, to abuse and heartbreak. The nod to literary classics from Salinger (The Catcher in the Rye) and Plath (The Bell Jar) will have you making your own investigations to cement links made.
Reading this novel is to partake in a love story … a love story in celebration of words. The title could not be more apt. Vanessa has penned the ultimate indelible tale, equally compelling and tragic. You may wish to savour the words but these words will carry you along with a force of their own. Thank you Vanessa for writing a book that I felt such a connection to - there are not enough ‘beautiful’ words to convey just how much I loved this book.
‘I want to believe that there are more lives for us. But maybe that’s why we have books. Don’t you ever find it sad that you’re confined to your own story? That your life is bounded by your mind inside your own head?’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
May 1, 2022
It's 1996 and two girls, Kase & Sylvie, are the very best of friends. From the outset we know there was a tragedy in which Kase's brother Tristan died. A tragedy which Kase & Sylvie's friendship did not survive. Sylvie herself almost did not survive. This night had lasting ramifications for both girls and the events of the night were slowly uncovered throughout the story.
Moving back to 1966 a fortune teller spoke those words to Franny and Eve, two young girls who were clearly best of friends. She said their lives were intertwined and they should treasure their friendship. Sometimes though even our true soul connections can become disconnected. No sooner had she spoken the words than the girls lives were forever changed and their precious friendship was allowed to shrivel and die.
Female friendships were central to The Beautiful Words by Vanessa McCausland. They were celebrated and were clearly precious to the girls and yet for one reason or another these friendships both failed. There had been secrets, resentments, regrets and disappointments. There were lies too. But why were they told and who were they supposed to protect?
Part of the enjoyment of the book was the non-linear manner in which the story was told. Readers got glimpses into how things had been in the good times when the two sets of friends were young, and were left wondering how and why things had gone so badly awry so that such close friends had become estranged.
I really enjoyed the writing and the story kept me wondering how it would all resolve. I'm not sure if the resolution was entirely plausible but I was certainly not unhappy with the denouement.
In each time period there was the hint of a romance and I especially enjoyed the development of the relationship between Sylvie and Holden in the present day. Their's appeared to be a true soul connection too, but instead of causing each other heartache as the friends had they supported one another and helped heal each others wounds. The path to recovery was not an easy one and the author demonstrated the strength of character required to be able to move on after two decades of suppressing the associated fear, anger and emotions.
If you enjoy books with a great many literary references I think you'd appreciate this one - so many authors and books mentioned and many of the characters had a true love of books and words. I also appreciated the Australian setting, the beauty of our land so vividly portrayed.
Vanessa McCausland is an author I havent read previously but wouldn't hesitate to try her earlier works. My thanks to her, to Harper Collins Publishers and Netgalley for the opportunity of reading this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review which it was my pleasure to provide.
"Sometimes it is friendship that is our true life calling, our true soul connection"
Moving back to 1966 a fortune teller spoke those words to Franny and Eve, two young girls who were clearly best of friends. She said their lives were intertwined and they should treasure their friendship. Sometimes though even our true soul connections can become disconnected. No sooner had she spoken the words than the girls lives were forever changed and their precious friendship was allowed to shrivel and die.
Female friendships were central to The Beautiful Words by Vanessa McCausland. They were celebrated and were clearly precious to the girls and yet for one reason or another these friendships both failed. There had been secrets, resentments, regrets and disappointments. There were lies too. But why were they told and who were they supposed to protect?
Part of the enjoyment of the book was the non-linear manner in which the story was told. Readers got glimpses into how things had been in the good times when the two sets of friends were young, and were left wondering how and why things had gone so badly awry so that such close friends had become estranged.
I really enjoyed the writing and the story kept me wondering how it would all resolve. I'm not sure if the resolution was entirely plausible but I was certainly not unhappy with the denouement.
In each time period there was the hint of a romance and I especially enjoyed the development of the relationship between Sylvie and Holden in the present day. Their's appeared to be a true soul connection too, but instead of causing each other heartache as the friends had they supported one another and helped heal each others wounds. The path to recovery was not an easy one and the author demonstrated the strength of character required to be able to move on after two decades of suppressing the associated fear, anger and emotions.
If you enjoy books with a great many literary references I think you'd appreciate this one - so many authors and books mentioned and many of the characters had a true love of books and words. I also appreciated the Australian setting, the beauty of our land so vividly portrayed.
Vanessa McCausland is an author I havent read previously but wouldn't hesitate to try her earlier works. My thanks to her, to Harper Collins Publishers and Netgalley for the opportunity of reading this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review which it was my pleasure to provide.
March 20, 2022
It's 1996 and two girls, Kase & Sylvie, are the very best of friends. From the outset we know there was a tragedy in which Kase's brother Tristan died. A tragedy which Kase & Sylvie's friendship did not survive. Sylvie herself almost did not survive. This night had lasting ramifications for both girls and the events of the night were slowly uncovered throughout the story.
Moving back to 1966 a fortune teller spoke those words to Franny and Eve, two young girls who were clearly best of friends. She said their lives were intertwined and they should treasure their friendship. Sometimes though even our true soul connections can become disconnected. No sooner had she spoken the words than the girls lives were forever changed and their precious friendship was allowed to shrivel and die.
Female friendships were central to The Beautiful Words by Vanessa McCausland. They were celebrated and were clearly precious to the girls and yet for one reason or another these friendships both failed. There had been secrets, resentments, regrets and disappointments. There were lies too. But why were they told and who were they supposed to protect?
Part of the enjoyment of the book was the non-linear manner in which the story was told. Readers got glimpses into how things had been in the good times when the two sets of friends were young, and were left wondering how and why things had gone so badly awry so that such close friends had become estranged.
I really enjoyed the writing and the story kept me wondering how it would all resolve. I'm not sure if the resolution was entirely plausible but I was certainly not unhappy with the denouement. In each time period there was the hint of a romance and I especially enjoyed the development of the relationship between Sylvie and Holden in the present day. Theirs appeared to be a true soul connection too, but instead of causing each other heartache as the friends had they supported one another and helped heal each others wounds. The path to recovery was not an easy one and the author demonstrated the strength of character required to be able to move on after two decades of suppressing the associated fear, anger and emotions.
If you enjoy books with a great many literary references I think you'd appreciate this one - so many authors and books mentioned and many of the characters had a true love of books and words. I also appreciated the Australian setting, the beauty of our land so vividly portrayed.
Vanessa McCausland is an author I haven't read previously but wouldn't hesitate to try her earlier works. My thanks to her, to Harper Collins Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity of reading this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review which it was my pleasure to provide.
"Sometimes it is friendship that is our true life calling, our true soul connection"
Moving back to 1966 a fortune teller spoke those words to Franny and Eve, two young girls who were clearly best of friends. She said their lives were intertwined and they should treasure their friendship. Sometimes though even our true soul connections can become disconnected. No sooner had she spoken the words than the girls lives were forever changed and their precious friendship was allowed to shrivel and die.
Female friendships were central to The Beautiful Words by Vanessa McCausland. They were celebrated and were clearly precious to the girls and yet for one reason or another these friendships both failed. There had been secrets, resentments, regrets and disappointments. There were lies too. But why were they told and who were they supposed to protect?
Part of the enjoyment of the book was the non-linear manner in which the story was told. Readers got glimpses into how things had been in the good times when the two sets of friends were young, and were left wondering how and why things had gone so badly awry so that such close friends had become estranged.
I really enjoyed the writing and the story kept me wondering how it would all resolve. I'm not sure if the resolution was entirely plausible but I was certainly not unhappy with the denouement. In each time period there was the hint of a romance and I especially enjoyed the development of the relationship between Sylvie and Holden in the present day. Theirs appeared to be a true soul connection too, but instead of causing each other heartache as the friends had they supported one another and helped heal each others wounds. The path to recovery was not an easy one and the author demonstrated the strength of character required to be able to move on after two decades of suppressing the associated fear, anger and emotions.
If you enjoy books with a great many literary references I think you'd appreciate this one - so many authors and books mentioned and many of the characters had a true love of books and words. I also appreciated the Australian setting, the beauty of our land so vividly portrayed.
Vanessa McCausland is an author I haven't read previously but wouldn't hesitate to try her earlier works. My thanks to her, to Harper Collins Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity of reading this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review which it was my pleasure to provide.
November 13, 2023
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
📖✍️I’ve now had the pleasure of reading every release so far by Vanessa McCausland and I’ve enjoyed following this Sydney writer’s work. The Beautiful Words is a stunning meditation on friendship ties, treachery, trauma, absence and clemency. This 2021 publication is a stirring read from open to close.
📖✍️Vanessa McCausland has a beautiful brand. I love how the author of The Lost Summer of Driftwood combines friendship, female voices, suppression of the truth, trauma, time, the past and relationship tension to her novels. The Beautiful Words is a potent story that untangles all these key issues with the overarching theme of the power of stories. I’m sorry that this 2021 Vanessa McCausland release was a casualty of my overcrowded book collection. I failed to get to this one when it first released, which was a shame as The Beautiful Words proved to be a very winsome read.
📖✍️Relayed in the form of a multiple perspective and cross timeline narrative, McCausland has approached this tale with a wide scope, but it succeeds in pulling the reader into the narrative. I love these broad picture style narratives that dip in out of time, place and character. If you are a fan of this technique, The Beautiful Words will definitely provide you with a sense of satisfaction. McCausland is unafraid of raising some pressing issues around coercion, abuse of power, male dominance, trauma, isolation, exile, estrangement, accusations, the past, betrayal, separation, acceptance and loss. McCausland delicately weaves in the strength of words in the face of this darkness, presenting her audience with a moving set piece.
📖✍️I’ve now had the pleasure of reading every release so far by Vanessa McCausland and I’ve enjoyed following this Sydney writer’s work. The Beautiful Words is a stunning meditation on friendship ties, treachery, trauma, absence and clemency. This 2021 publication is a stirring read from open to close.
📖✍️Vanessa McCausland has a beautiful brand. I love how the author of The Lost Summer of Driftwood combines friendship, female voices, suppression of the truth, trauma, time, the past and relationship tension to her novels. The Beautiful Words is a potent story that untangles all these key issues with the overarching theme of the power of stories. I’m sorry that this 2021 Vanessa McCausland release was a casualty of my overcrowded book collection. I failed to get to this one when it first released, which was a shame as The Beautiful Words proved to be a very winsome read.
📖✍️Relayed in the form of a multiple perspective and cross timeline narrative, McCausland has approached this tale with a wide scope, but it succeeds in pulling the reader into the narrative. I love these broad picture style narratives that dip in out of time, place and character. If you are a fan of this technique, The Beautiful Words will definitely provide you with a sense of satisfaction. McCausland is unafraid of raising some pressing issues around coercion, abuse of power, male dominance, trauma, isolation, exile, estrangement, accusations, the past, betrayal, separation, acceptance and loss. McCausland delicately weaves in the strength of words in the face of this darkness, presenting her audience with a moving set piece.
February 20, 2023
'The Beautiful words' was very much that -- it had such beautiful, poetic prose. Yet, this was in stark contrast to its rather traumatic subject matter. The pacing was slow, the romance developed quite quickly, but the strong messages were a plenty.
February 12, 2022
Loved this book, one that evokes all those ‘feels’, which is what a 5 star book for me.
Listened to the audiobook.
Listened to the audiobook.
December 31, 2022
Intertwining. Compelling. Inspiring
The Beautiful Words was not what I expected. As the story unfolds, you start to sense what you think happened, what might have cause the rift between these soul-friends, but a new piece of the puzzle drops and has you questioning, the whole truth is just beyond the next page. We are given intertwined stories, flashbacks and half truth, as we follow Sylvie in piecing together what happen on the tragic night 23 years ago.
This book is about friendship, love, loss, secrets, shame. While the climax was quick (excuse the pun) it has lasting ramifications, not just for the characters but for every reader.
The Beautiful Words is about giving women a voice to speak out ‘because somehow everything seems bent on protecting the reputation of the man rather than protecting the dignity and worth of the woman’.
Truth. Support. Respect.
The Beautiful Words was not what I expected. As the story unfolds, you start to sense what you think happened, what might have cause the rift between these soul-friends, but a new piece of the puzzle drops and has you questioning, the whole truth is just beyond the next page. We are given intertwined stories, flashbacks and half truth, as we follow Sylvie in piecing together what happen on the tragic night 23 years ago.
This book is about friendship, love, loss, secrets, shame. While the climax was quick (excuse the pun) it has lasting ramifications, not just for the characters but for every reader.
The Beautiful Words is about giving women a voice to speak out ‘because somehow everything seems bent on protecting the reputation of the man rather than protecting the dignity and worth of the woman’.
Truth. Support. Respect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2022
Self-confessed 'logophile' (word lover) Sylvie Dane, named after Sylvia Plath by her bohemian mother, is destined to shine bright. That is, until a tragic accident at age 17 leaves her with a traumatic brain injury, including memory loss of the fateful night of the accident. The boy Sylvie loves (her best friend Kase's brother Tristan) devastatingly
also dies in the accident. Following the accident, Kase withdraws and Sylvie is left to piece together her life and grieve not only for Tristan but also her soul connection to Kase.
23 years of radio silence follow until Kase reaches out to Sylvie to invite her to her 40th birthday celebration on a rugged Tasmanian island. The original players from the accident reassemble at the party, and as events escalate, fragments of Sylvie's memories slowly begin emerge.
"I guess a big milestone like this makes you look back on your life in a slightly different way. The important people in your life. You kind of see everything with a bit of perspective, like you can suddenly see the forest and not just the trees."
The novel takes place in the present (a pre-covid world), the summer of 1996 and the summer of 1967 as we are taken into the past to learn how past choices have rippled into the present across three generations.
"She’d read once that stories only survived three generations and then they were gone, blown away by the winds of time. The proof: What does anyone know of their grandmother’s mother?"
This is Vanessa McCausland's third novel and it is as gripping as her first two. Her use of language is exquisite and mesmerising. As in her previous novels, there is an absorbing mystery, romance, realistic characters and a stunning Australian setting. It also has slight supernatural feeling, including Gothic elements such as a fortune teller, a curse, darkly picturesque scenery and atmosphere, suspense, an emotionally damaged women and a villain.
There are extensive literary allusions and explicit references to literature and authors (Sylvia Plath and The Catcher in the Rye). The power of and healing ability of words and books is a key theme. Other themes explored include grief, memory, friendship and betrayal.
Each main character had their own depth and it felt like the story was on the periphery of several other intertwined yet untold stories.
"But maybe that’s why we have books. Don’t you ever find it sad that you’re confined to your own story? That your life is bounded by your mind inside your own head?"
A beautifully written, enthralling story with memorable characters and a striking setting. Highly recommended.
also dies in the accident. Following the accident, Kase withdraws and Sylvie is left to piece together her life and grieve not only for Tristan but also her soul connection to Kase.
23 years of radio silence follow until Kase reaches out to Sylvie to invite her to her 40th birthday celebration on a rugged Tasmanian island. The original players from the accident reassemble at the party, and as events escalate, fragments of Sylvie's memories slowly begin emerge.
"I guess a big milestone like this makes you look back on your life in a slightly different way. The important people in your life. You kind of see everything with a bit of perspective, like you can suddenly see the forest and not just the trees."
The novel takes place in the present (a pre-covid world), the summer of 1996 and the summer of 1967 as we are taken into the past to learn how past choices have rippled into the present across three generations.
"She’d read once that stories only survived three generations and then they were gone, blown away by the winds of time. The proof: What does anyone know of their grandmother’s mother?"
This is Vanessa McCausland's third novel and it is as gripping as her first two. Her use of language is exquisite and mesmerising. As in her previous novels, there is an absorbing mystery, romance, realistic characters and a stunning Australian setting. It also has slight supernatural feeling, including Gothic elements such as a fortune teller, a curse, darkly picturesque scenery and atmosphere, suspense, an emotionally damaged women and a villain.
There are extensive literary allusions and explicit references to literature and authors (Sylvia Plath and The Catcher in the Rye). The power of and healing ability of words and books is a key theme. Other themes explored include grief, memory, friendship and betrayal.
Each main character had their own depth and it felt like the story was on the periphery of several other intertwined yet untold stories.
"But maybe that’s why we have books. Don’t you ever find it sad that you’re confined to your own story? That your life is bounded by your mind inside your own head?"
A beautifully written, enthralling story with memorable characters and a striking setting. Highly recommended.
March 17, 2022
Since it’s release, I have seen and heard nothing but love for this novel, The Beautiful Words, and now that I’ve read it for myself, I completely understand what all the fuss is about. What a gorgeous, heartfelt, deeply affecting novel this is.
‘The feelings of others were not something intellectual that Sylvie could regard at a distance, she felt them in her own body, she wore others' scars as though they were her own. Feelings were catching things. They were alive and physical.’
This novel was so much more than what I had anticipated going in. I thought it was going to be a story about a lost friendship rekindled with some secrets from the past aired out and then laid to rest. In keeping with this, I was expecting an easy going read. But while that is the theme going in, the story rapidly morphs into so much more and the depths the author took us to was stunning, the range of topics woven seamlessly together.
When I think about this novel from here on in, it will always be as a love letter to words. That more than anything else stood out for me. Sylvie was a collector of words, inscribing them into her notebook as a means, initially, to aid her damaged memory, but later, as a way of coping when stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. I just loved the wordy part of this novel so much. Words prefacing each chapter, Sylvie’s words that she would inscribe, the words that would pop into her head which formed part of her inner dialogue. All the beautiful words, just as the novel is named.
Please read this book. And then give it to a friend as a gift. It’s magnificent.
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
‘The feelings of others were not something intellectual that Sylvie could regard at a distance, she felt them in her own body, she wore others' scars as though they were her own. Feelings were catching things. They were alive and physical.’
This novel was so much more than what I had anticipated going in. I thought it was going to be a story about a lost friendship rekindled with some secrets from the past aired out and then laid to rest. In keeping with this, I was expecting an easy going read. But while that is the theme going in, the story rapidly morphs into so much more and the depths the author took us to was stunning, the range of topics woven seamlessly together.
When I think about this novel from here on in, it will always be as a love letter to words. That more than anything else stood out for me. Sylvie was a collector of words, inscribing them into her notebook as a means, initially, to aid her damaged memory, but later, as a way of coping when stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. I just loved the wordy part of this novel so much. Words prefacing each chapter, Sylvie’s words that she would inscribe, the words that would pop into her head which formed part of her inner dialogue. All the beautiful words, just as the novel is named.
Please read this book. And then give it to a friend as a gift. It’s magnificent.
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
October 12, 2021
I had an essay to write, but I also wanted to read my advanced copy of this book. I enjoyed her other novels so much that I felt I deserved this treat. I told myself I could read a few chapters over a cup of tea, then I told myself I could read til dinner... then I just read until it turned the last tear soaked page.
Then I wanted to start again.
Oh Sylvie, wrapped up in the safety of your cleaning job - your imagination at play. I felt like I'd found a friend. I was fully enchanted. Female friendship is always a good hook for me, but what kept me going through the long night reading was the beautiful writing. Reading this novel was like an act of love. You just have to read this! It's beautiful. It's fun to read a book that lures you in - I remember getting cross at some of the ways the characters responded, wanting so much to yell 'stay' or 'go' or "forgive' But "Don't forgive that character". There's also this crazy scene in the novel (no spoilers) that was so funny but crazy I actually wrote to the author to ask where the idea came from (friend of a friend ....).
I am looking forward to buying a copy when it is released, to holding the clean volume in my hands and experiencing the absolute gift that comes in the form of Sylvie. She's totally my new best friend and I will forever thankful to the author for the deep connection I felt reading this novel.
Then I wanted to start again.
Oh Sylvie, wrapped up in the safety of your cleaning job - your imagination at play. I felt like I'd found a friend. I was fully enchanted. Female friendship is always a good hook for me, but what kept me going through the long night reading was the beautiful writing. Reading this novel was like an act of love. You just have to read this! It's beautiful. It's fun to read a book that lures you in - I remember getting cross at some of the ways the characters responded, wanting so much to yell 'stay' or 'go' or "forgive' But "Don't forgive that character". There's also this crazy scene in the novel (no spoilers) that was so funny but crazy I actually wrote to the author to ask where the idea came from (friend of a friend ....).
I am looking forward to buying a copy when it is released, to holding the clean volume in my hands and experiencing the absolute gift that comes in the form of Sylvie. She's totally my new best friend and I will forever thankful to the author for the deep connection I felt reading this novel.
January 15, 2022
This book kept me up reading late into the night. Spanning over 3 generations this is a book of friendship, family, love, loss, betrayal and loyalty all wrapped into one!! Made even more special to me as a local to Northern Beaches in Sydney and could vividly picture the landscapes that young Sylvie and Kase were growing up in. And at a similar time to myself!! Loved the book lover theme throughout as well. This book had it all. Great read!
December 21, 2022
I can't believe I forgot to rate Vanessa McCausland's last novel - what a storyteller! I can't wait to read what she's going to write next. The Beautiful Words is another book of hers that I couldn't put down, Vanessa pulls you in as a reader, weaving a tale that was unexpected and ultimately satisfying. If you haven't read her yet, I highly recommend!
July 9, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.
I had been so looking forward to reading Vanessa McCausland's third novel and it didn't disappoint! Such an amazingly beautiful, heartbreaking book. The story of Sylvie and Holden is beautifully bought together whilst unravelling both the distant and recent pasts of the characters. Highly, highly recommend!
I had been so looking forward to reading Vanessa McCausland's third novel and it didn't disappoint! Such an amazingly beautiful, heartbreaking book. The story of Sylvie and Holden is beautifully bought together whilst unravelling both the distant and recent pasts of the characters. Highly, highly recommend!
February 1, 2022
Could put it down, captivating story teller. A deep story of sorrow, grief, love, being true to one's self and finding new paths. Can be Triggering for some in the area of sexual abuse or manipulation.
September 10, 2021
I loved this beautifully written book from start to finish ….in fact I didn’t want it to finish because my heart was so invested in the lives of Sylvie & Kase and their mothers Franny & Eve…and the lovely Holden.
This most compelling, page turning story of friendship & soulmates and the unfolding mystery that still bound them together though apart, not only over years but generations, speaks to a journey Sylvie unknowingly needed to make to identify and ameliorate her own pain that had her entrapped.
Vanessa’s now hallmark literary ability to make settings and place wonderfully real, envelopes you as if to take you right there with the characters…. whether on wild beaches or in quaint little bookshops! Beautiful words peppered throughout this book make it a reader’s delight.
This book sensitively sounds the depths of hidden secrets & deception that sadly today thread through too many peoples’ lives but finds beauty in fierce friendship and love.
Recommend to all!
This most compelling, page turning story of friendship & soulmates and the unfolding mystery that still bound them together though apart, not only over years but generations, speaks to a journey Sylvie unknowingly needed to make to identify and ameliorate her own pain that had her entrapped.
Vanessa’s now hallmark literary ability to make settings and place wonderfully real, envelopes you as if to take you right there with the characters…. whether on wild beaches or in quaint little bookshops! Beautiful words peppered throughout this book make it a reader’s delight.
This book sensitively sounds the depths of hidden secrets & deception that sadly today thread through too many peoples’ lives but finds beauty in fierce friendship and love.
Recommend to all!
January 5, 2022
What a great book to start the year with- beautifully written -exploring memories, stories and friendships with interesting, vulnerable and complex characters that you feel invested in.
January 15, 2022
Beautiful words indeed. This book was everything a book should be. Captivating, interesting, emotional.The way Vanessa writes is so clever, powerful and just exquisite. Love, Love, Loved It!!!
January 20, 2022
Sylvie and Kase were the closest of friends until one night, when they were 17, something horrific happened that turned their lives upside-down, and Kase didn’t see Sylvie again. Sylvie was hurt physically and emotionally by the event, and lives a lonely life until Kase, now a famous author, invites Sylvie to her fortieth birthday party on a lonely Tasmanian island, and the past comes back to haunt them. Set in Sydney’s Palm Beach and in Tasmania, it’s a lush, lyrical, atmospheric novel about slowly revealed secrets, friendship, power and betrayal, and the strength and hope found in words and stories.
January 18, 2022
Oh my god. I couldn't put this book down. Loved reading this book as I wanted to know more. Vanessa McCausland is an author to watch out for.
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