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Searching for a Silver Lining
Both heartbreaking and affirming, Miranda Dickinson's Searching for a Silver Lining is perfect for fans of Cecilia Ahern and JoJo Moyes.Matilda Bell is left heartbroken when she falls out with her beloved grandfather just before he dies. Haunted by regret, she makes a promise that will soon change everything . . . When spirited former singing star Reenie Silver enters her life, Mattie seizes the opportunity to make amends. Together, Mattie and Reenie embark on an incredible journey that will find lost friends, uncover secrets from the glamorous 1950s and put right a sixty-year wrong.Touchingly funny, warm and life-affirming, this is a sparkling story of second chances. Perfect for fans of Cecelia Ahern, Searching for a Silver Lining by Miranda Dickinson will take you on a trip you'll never forget.
449 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2016
About the author
Miranda Dickinson
28 books668 followersMiranda Dickinson has always had a head full of stories. Coming from a creative family where stories and songs were always present, it was perhaps inevitable that she would end up adoring words. A songwriter for over 15 years, Miranda has successfully penned over thirty songs, delivering both live and recorded performances in a range of venues across the UK and Europe. Her first solo project album, About Time is due for release this year. To hear her music, visit www.mirandadickinson.com - and be sure to leave a message if you like it!
Miranda began writing in earnest four years ago with her first novel, Coffee at Kowalski's - a romantic comedy set in New York's Upper West Side. This was spotted on HarperCollins' site for unpublished authors, Authonomy.com at the end of 2008 and was released by Avon (part of HC) as Fairytale of New York on 12th November 2009. She has also written several short stories, scripts and novel excerpts, many of which are published on Helium.com. Miranda is also a regular contributor for www.myvillage.com writing a range of local interest articles for the Birmingham area and national film and festival reviews.
Miranda began writing in earnest four years ago with her first novel, Coffee at Kowalski's - a romantic comedy set in New York's Upper West Side. This was spotted on HarperCollins' site for unpublished authors, Authonomy.com at the end of 2008 and was released by Avon (part of HC) as Fairytale of New York on 12th November 2009. She has also written several short stories, scripts and novel excerpts, many of which are published on Helium.com. Miranda is also a regular contributor for www.myvillage.com writing a range of local interest articles for the Birmingham area and national film and festival reviews.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 4, 2021
Four and a half stars.
Miranda Bell is shattered when her relationship with her beloved grandfather falls apart. He dies before she can restore the breach. Haunted by guilt and regret she sets out to try and find a way to make it right. In the process she meets Reenie Silver. Reenie had been one a 1950s group Miranda’s grandfather loved. She aims with Reenie’s help to bring the group back together again. Will it succeed? What truths might be uncovered along the way?
I loved this book with its emphasis on 1950s music. Each chapter starts with a particular song that ties in with what the chapter is about. As I have always loved 1950s music, having grown up with a mother who played records of it constantly and loved it, this appealed to me. Many of the songs I knew. But it did have me searching to check out one Elvis song I have never heard him sing. Since I have a large Elvis collection that was interesting. And surprising.
But to the book, I really liked the characters, the way the story worked as a whole. Definitely a silver lining of a book that left me feeling good at the end of it. My first book by this author I would love to read more. An uplifting read, if maybe a little implausible at times. But it didn’t matter. I lived it and loved it. A story of family, friendship, love and forgiveness.
Miranda Bell is shattered when her relationship with her beloved grandfather falls apart. He dies before she can restore the breach. Haunted by guilt and regret she sets out to try and find a way to make it right. In the process she meets Reenie Silver. Reenie had been one a 1950s group Miranda’s grandfather loved. She aims with Reenie’s help to bring the group back together again. Will it succeed? What truths might be uncovered along the way?
I loved this book with its emphasis on 1950s music. Each chapter starts with a particular song that ties in with what the chapter is about. As I have always loved 1950s music, having grown up with a mother who played records of it constantly and loved it, this appealed to me. Many of the songs I knew. But it did have me searching to check out one Elvis song I have never heard him sing. Since I have a large Elvis collection that was interesting. And surprising.
But to the book, I really liked the characters, the way the story worked as a whole. Definitely a silver lining of a book that left me feeling good at the end of it. My first book by this author I would love to read more. An uplifting read, if maybe a little implausible at times. But it didn’t matter. I lived it and loved it. A story of family, friendship, love and forgiveness.
October 1, 2016
Searching for a Silver Lining is an uplifting and captivating story, and makes me think it is never too late to say sorry, and that you really shouldn't hold a grudge for 60 years. It started slightly slow but still in a way that had me interested, as as the story continued, and there is a race against time, the pace increases, and so does the addictiveness of the book. I read this in one afternoon, and can't think of a better way I could have spent the time.
I had been slightly worried about elements of this book as they first appeared in the book, and also of the mention of the 1950s in the blurb, but if like me you aren't a history nut, then don't worry its not in your face. There are diaries, but we only get short relevant extracts about Mattie's grandfather which were interesting. The other main way we get history is from Reenie's reminisces, but since they are in conversation form, it was like a grandparent telling a grandchild stories of their youth, and from that point of view very comforting.
Reenie Silver is without a doubt the star of this book, with Mattie in more of a supporting role, despite Mattie being the main character, and the point of view we see everything from. Reenie was part of 50s group The Silver Five, but never got a chance to play the biggest gig of their career at the Palm Grove, London. She has taken responsibility for 60 years about the band splitting up that night, although no one knows the reason why. There has been a 60 year rift between the band members, and thanks to a graveside promise Mattie has made to her dearly departed grandfather (who she also had a rift with), the pair embark on a massive task.
When I think of road trips, I usually think of epic stories down Route 66 in USA, possibly with a group of people just out of college doing something amazing. Searching for a Silver Lining turns the road trip concept around, and involves an octogenarian, Reenie, Mattie and club owner Gil touring all over Britain to try and reunite The Silver Five for a one off reunion concert.
At times I was in tears with elements of the story, other times I was willing some romance to happen, other times I was just smiling and laughing as everything progressed. There is a romance but its so supplementary to the main story, it almost barely registers. It is how Mattie and Reenie communicate and their relatively new friendship and how it develops that I loved reading about the most.
Reenie has had a colourful past, and the stories she tells adds a fair amount of glamour to the situation, although perhaps a pinch of salt is needed as you listen to her. She is larger than life, but there is a lot to her under the surface too, and I enjoyed learning about all facets of her personality.
Without a doubt I think this is the best and most enjoyable book that Miranda Dickinson has written to date, and is one I would love to see made into a film. It definitely is my new favourite by her, and I'm just sad that I have reached the end of the story, as I was loving it so much.
Thank you so much to Francesca Pearce at Pan for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
I had been slightly worried about elements of this book as they first appeared in the book, and also of the mention of the 1950s in the blurb, but if like me you aren't a history nut, then don't worry its not in your face. There are diaries, but we only get short relevant extracts about Mattie's grandfather which were interesting. The other main way we get history is from Reenie's reminisces, but since they are in conversation form, it was like a grandparent telling a grandchild stories of their youth, and from that point of view very comforting.
Reenie Silver is without a doubt the star of this book, with Mattie in more of a supporting role, despite Mattie being the main character, and the point of view we see everything from. Reenie was part of 50s group The Silver Five, but never got a chance to play the biggest gig of their career at the Palm Grove, London. She has taken responsibility for 60 years about the band splitting up that night, although no one knows the reason why. There has been a 60 year rift between the band members, and thanks to a graveside promise Mattie has made to her dearly departed grandfather (who she also had a rift with), the pair embark on a massive task.
When I think of road trips, I usually think of epic stories down Route 66 in USA, possibly with a group of people just out of college doing something amazing. Searching for a Silver Lining turns the road trip concept around, and involves an octogenarian, Reenie, Mattie and club owner Gil touring all over Britain to try and reunite The Silver Five for a one off reunion concert.
At times I was in tears with elements of the story, other times I was willing some romance to happen, other times I was just smiling and laughing as everything progressed. There is a romance but its so supplementary to the main story, it almost barely registers. It is how Mattie and Reenie communicate and their relatively new friendship and how it develops that I loved reading about the most.
Reenie has had a colourful past, and the stories she tells adds a fair amount of glamour to the situation, although perhaps a pinch of salt is needed as you listen to her. She is larger than life, but there is a lot to her under the surface too, and I enjoyed learning about all facets of her personality.
Without a doubt I think this is the best and most enjoyable book that Miranda Dickinson has written to date, and is one I would love to see made into a film. It definitely is my new favourite by her, and I'm just sad that I have reached the end of the story, as I was loving it so much.
Thank you so much to Francesca Pearce at Pan for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
January 10, 2023
Fab book
August 28, 2016
Miranda Dickinson's best book yet. Love the natural and believable friendship across the age gap, the wit and humour and the clever 'soundtrack'. Gorgeous. Full review at www.bookswithbunny.blogspot.co.uk on 20th October.
November 8, 2020
I didn't like the characters and therefore, I didn't enjoy the story very much. They only try to benefit from each other - and the love story feels very constructed, I just didn't fell the chemestry. I did like the setting and the vintage flair, but all in all, I can't give more than two stars.
December 20, 2016
I love a Miranda Dickinson novel so I'm not sure why it took me to long to read this one! This book has 3 main storylines, all mingling amongst each other but I'd say that the three are very distinct. We have the story involving Mattie, Reenie and club owner Gill and their road trip to try and get the group The Silver Five back together for one very special performance. I would say that this was my favourite of the three storylines. The road trip takes in so many parts of the country and takes in some of my favourite places, including Barter Books, Beaconsfield Services and Soho! I really loved the situations they got themselves into and the travelling itself!
The other 2 storylines involve Mattie and her Grandad Joe. The novel begins with his funeral and we know straightaway that he and Mattie weren't talking when he died and so she feels like she needs to make it up to him. I wasn't as keen on this storyline, I'm not really sure why, perhaps I just didn't like how much of her life Mattie was dedicating to making it up to him, but the flashbacks to Grandad Joe's life ere very interesting and I liked them. The other storyline is, of course, a love story and what's not to like about that. I'm not going to go any further into that one because I don't want to give anything away!
In terms of the characters, I defy anyone not to love Reenie. She is a typical diva, but over 80 and living in a retirement community. I loved how bolshy she was and I loved her accent, it totally comes right off the page and whenever she is speaking or recalling something, you can hear this Cilla Black type matriarch right there in the room with you. Matilda, Mattie Bell is an interesting character. I didn't find myself warming to her quite as much. I think this again comes down to the fact that she lives her life so much in the past and dwells on things so much. I loved that she was so determined to help Reenie though and make things right for her, and I loved the relationship that she had with her sister, Jo and her cousin Jack. Gil, the club owner is another major character in the book and I liked him when he was in the club, doing his thing, but not as much when he was taken out of that setting and chatting to Mattie and Reenie.
Ultimately this is a story of hope and of second chances, but there are also some great insights into relationships of every kind, family, friends, lovers and enemies and I really liked that strong theme coming through. I always love a Miranda Dickinson book and, as with all her novels, you will leave this novel feeling heart warmed and having great faith in your fellow man!
The other 2 storylines involve Mattie and her Grandad Joe. The novel begins with his funeral and we know straightaway that he and Mattie weren't talking when he died and so she feels like she needs to make it up to him. I wasn't as keen on this storyline, I'm not really sure why, perhaps I just didn't like how much of her life Mattie was dedicating to making it up to him, but the flashbacks to Grandad Joe's life ere very interesting and I liked them. The other storyline is, of course, a love story and what's not to like about that. I'm not going to go any further into that one because I don't want to give anything away!
In terms of the characters, I defy anyone not to love Reenie. She is a typical diva, but over 80 and living in a retirement community. I loved how bolshy she was and I loved her accent, it totally comes right off the page and whenever she is speaking or recalling something, you can hear this Cilla Black type matriarch right there in the room with you. Matilda, Mattie Bell is an interesting character. I didn't find myself warming to her quite as much. I think this again comes down to the fact that she lives her life so much in the past and dwells on things so much. I loved that she was so determined to help Reenie though and make things right for her, and I loved the relationship that she had with her sister, Jo and her cousin Jack. Gil, the club owner is another major character in the book and I liked him when he was in the club, doing his thing, but not as much when he was taken out of that setting and chatting to Mattie and Reenie.
Ultimately this is a story of hope and of second chances, but there are also some great insights into relationships of every kind, family, friends, lovers and enemies and I really liked that strong theme coming through. I always love a Miranda Dickinson book and, as with all her novels, you will leave this novel feeling heart warmed and having great faith in your fellow man!
May 3, 2024
Легка, мила історія про дружбу і любов. Про помилки минулого, які часом заважають спокійно жити і рухатися вперед, і шанс на їхнє виправлення. Про те, що чорне не завжди є чорним, а біле білим, і на одну й ту саму ситуацію іноді варто поглянути з різних точок зору.
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Мені дуже сподобалась Рені Сілвер – колишня співачка, яка і в похилому віці не втратила здатність дивувати і вражати. Ця смілива жінка довела, що вибачитися перед тими, кого образив, не пізно навіть через шістдесят років.
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На прикладі Матильди авторка показала, що порозумітися можна навіть з тими, хто вже пішов у засвіти.
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Романтична лінія у авторки, як завжди, дуже ніжна і щира. Почуття між героями розвиваються поступово і ненав'язливо.
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Атмосфера насичена вінтажним духом і музикою. Назва кожного розділу – це назва пісні та ім'я її виконавця. Також письменниця у кінці книги залишила плейлист, що пасує її творінню.
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Мені дуже сподобалась Рені Сілвер – колишня співачка, яка і в похилому віці не втратила здатність дивувати і вражати. Ця смілива жінка довела, що вибачитися перед тими, кого образив, не пізно навіть через шістдесят років.
⠀
На прикладі Матильди авторка показала, що порозумітися можна навіть з тими, хто вже пішов у засвіти.
⠀
Романтична лінія у авторки, як завжди, дуже ніжна і щира. Почуття між героями розвиваються поступово і ненав'язливо.
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Атмосфера насичена вінтажним духом і музикою. Назва кожного розділу – це назва пісні та ім'я її виконавця. Також письменниця у кінці книги залишила плейлист, що пасує її творінню.
January 25, 2019
This book did take a few chapters to get into but it was well worth the wait as after that you aren’t able to put it down. There are two main female characters mattie and rennie which are so different in personality that you wonder how and why they will become friends they do. There is also matties granddad whose story is told via a diary. This story teaches you that you don’t have to similar to get close and there is often more to people than meets the eye
July 14, 2026
I loved the theme for this book and there was so much history and reminiscing involved. It had a lot of depth to it.
I would say, at the end between Gil and Mattie that there needed to be more clarity between them. The conversation was too short. Maybe that was deliberate because of what made Mattie change her mind, but I was a little lost. The ending was perfect though and expected in a good way!
I would say, at the end between Gil and Mattie that there needed to be more clarity between them. The conversation was too short. Maybe that was deliberate because of what made Mattie change her mind, but I was a little lost. The ending was perfect though and expected in a good way!
March 2, 2017
Another good book from Miranda Dickinson. Really loved the character of Reene Silver, full of life, feisty and fun, but with hidden secrets.
Matilda Bell tries really hard to make up for her rift with her grandfather, does she succeed, read the book to find out.
This story is light hearted and funny, it also just shows it is never too late for an apology
Matilda Bell tries really hard to make up for her rift with her grandfather, does she succeed, read the book to find out.
This story is light hearted and funny, it also just shows it is never too late for an apology
May 6, 2018
This was a wonderful read. It reminded me of my close relationship that I have with my granddad. I love how each chapter is a song title it made it feel more personal and if you really want to immerse yourself you can play each song too which I did. This is a lovely story about second chances and I found it touching and funny in parts.
October 25, 2016
Loved the characters - and the musical references to the fifties! A story covering lots of emotions and left me wanting more!
June 4, 2017
I always feel like Miranda's stories are a giant cuddle in book form.
September 6, 2017
a good read.
February 15, 2018
Really. What a self-obsessed dreary main character.
August 31, 2018
A lovely book, easy to read - perfect holiday reading
July 26, 2020
Good enough, maybe a bit too long.
November 22, 2020
Been looking for this book for ages and found it in a charity shop. Loved the story.
May 2, 2022
Who can't help falling in love with Reenie Silver!
September 4, 2022
Very enjoyable read. A 'summer' read to relax and chill with.
October 15, 2016
I love Miranda's books, I think I have read every one of them and I have never been disappointed. I thought Searching for a Silver lining was a different type of book, one that was unexpected but just as good as her others.
The reason I haven't given this book 5* is because although I liked it, I didn't like the historic element to the book. When I read the blurb and I discovered there was mention of the 1950's it filled me with dread. It wasn't as bad as I thought, although there is mention of the past as you discover what happened to Mattie's grandfather and what made him the man he was, it was written in diary form so broke up the book. There was also Rennie's memories coming through too, neither of which are very offensive.
This is a story about friendship, forgiveness and searching for something, in more than one way. Mattie has fallen out with her grandfather, unfortunately he dies before they have chance to make up and the guilt is tearing Mattie apart, if only she wasn't so stubborn!
Through doing a good deed Mattie is introduced to Rennie, an old lady in her 80's, who as it turns out used to be in the most famous band of the 50's! This band also happened to be her grandfathers favourite, by listening to her stories Mattie somehow feels closer to her late grandfather. Through a series of diaries he left her she discovers who he was growing up.
Through listening to Rennie's stories she realises she has her own burdens and guilt's that have followed her since the band split. Together they can put at least one of these things right hopefully and Mattie agrees to help Rennie.
Get ready for a road trip like no other! This is a book that is so unique, I have never read anything like it. Although it is not my favourite Dickinson novel this is one you must read. It is only not my favourite down to my taste. I did enjoy reading this, it made me feel very calm and melo when reading it, I thought it was intriguing and different. Definitely complete escapism and one for those of us wishing to slow things down in our own lives to take some time out.
I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
The reason I haven't given this book 5* is because although I liked it, I didn't like the historic element to the book. When I read the blurb and I discovered there was mention of the 1950's it filled me with dread. It wasn't as bad as I thought, although there is mention of the past as you discover what happened to Mattie's grandfather and what made him the man he was, it was written in diary form so broke up the book. There was also Rennie's memories coming through too, neither of which are very offensive.
This is a story about friendship, forgiveness and searching for something, in more than one way. Mattie has fallen out with her grandfather, unfortunately he dies before they have chance to make up and the guilt is tearing Mattie apart, if only she wasn't so stubborn!
Through doing a good deed Mattie is introduced to Rennie, an old lady in her 80's, who as it turns out used to be in the most famous band of the 50's! This band also happened to be her grandfathers favourite, by listening to her stories Mattie somehow feels closer to her late grandfather. Through a series of diaries he left her she discovers who he was growing up.
Through listening to Rennie's stories she realises she has her own burdens and guilt's that have followed her since the band split. Together they can put at least one of these things right hopefully and Mattie agrees to help Rennie.
Get ready for a road trip like no other! This is a book that is so unique, I have never read anything like it. Although it is not my favourite Dickinson novel this is one you must read. It is only not my favourite down to my taste. I did enjoy reading this, it made me feel very calm and melo when reading it, I thought it was intriguing and different. Definitely complete escapism and one for those of us wishing to slow things down in our own lives to take some time out.
I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2016
Two women, two different generations, two different stories, but their stories kind of become one big story.
Let’s start at the beginning. Matilda Bell’s grandfather died and just before that she had a real fall out with him.
She is determined to make it right.
That’s where Reenie Silver comes in. She was part of a popular band in the 50ies called The Silver Five. Together they go on a journey to fin all her band members, make peace with them and bring them back for a concert.
The journey is full of ups and down for both women, they go through a lot, but the great thing about that is that they have each other. It’s wonderful to read about their growing bond. Reenie is trying to put things right after 60 years and Matilda apart from helping her learns more about her grandfather and of course also has a love interest. The people they meet on the way are very interesting and add a lot to the story.
I really love the idea behind this book and it’s impressive how Miranda always comes up with something new and unique.
It’s great to follow these lovely characters around the UK and discovering more and more about them. I think the title is perfect for this book and both women and their stories. Miranda’s writing has the capability to put a smile on your face, it’s full of emotions and depth.
There was something stopping me from completely diving into the book and it’s really hard to explain. I guess it was especially Mattie’s grandfathers part and past that didn’t come through for me. It’s still a gorgeous story with a very unique touch.
Let’s start at the beginning. Matilda Bell’s grandfather died and just before that she had a real fall out with him.
She is determined to make it right.
That’s where Reenie Silver comes in. She was part of a popular band in the 50ies called The Silver Five. Together they go on a journey to fin all her band members, make peace with them and bring them back for a concert.
The journey is full of ups and down for both women, they go through a lot, but the great thing about that is that they have each other. It’s wonderful to read about their growing bond. Reenie is trying to put things right after 60 years and Matilda apart from helping her learns more about her grandfather and of course also has a love interest. The people they meet on the way are very interesting and add a lot to the story.
I really love the idea behind this book and it’s impressive how Miranda always comes up with something new and unique.
It’s great to follow these lovely characters around the UK and discovering more and more about them. I think the title is perfect for this book and both women and their stories. Miranda’s writing has the capability to put a smile on your face, it’s full of emotions and depth.
There was something stopping me from completely diving into the book and it’s really hard to explain. I guess it was especially Mattie’s grandfathers part and past that didn’t come through for me. It’s still a gorgeous story with a very unique touch.
November 6, 2016
Two women, two different generations, two different stories, but their stories kind of become one big story.
Let’s start at the beginning. Matilda Bell’s grandfather died and just before that she had a real fall out with him.
She is determined to make it right.
That’s where Reenie Silver comes in. She was part of a popular band in the 50ies called The Silver Five. Together they go on a journey to fin all her band members, make peace with them and bring them back for a concert.
The journey is full of ups and down for both women, they go through a lot, but the great thing about that is that they have each other. It’s wonderful to read about their growing bond. Reenie is trying to put things right after 60 years and Matilda apart from helping her learns more about her grandfather and of course also has a love interest. The people they meet on the way are very interesting and add a lot to the story.
I really love the idea behind this book and it’s impressive how Miranda always comes up with something new and unique.
It’s great to follow these lovely characters around the UK and discovering more and more about them. I think the title is perfect for this book and both women and their stories. Miranda’s writing has the capability to put a smile on your face, it’s full of emotions and depth.
There was something stopping me from completely diving into the book and it’s really hard to explain. I guess it was especially Mattie’s grandfathers part and past that didn’t come through for me. It’s still a gorgeous story with a very unique touch.
Let’s start at the beginning. Matilda Bell’s grandfather died and just before that she had a real fall out with him.
She is determined to make it right.
That’s where Reenie Silver comes in. She was part of a popular band in the 50ies called The Silver Five. Together they go on a journey to fin all her band members, make peace with them and bring them back for a concert.
The journey is full of ups and down for both women, they go through a lot, but the great thing about that is that they have each other. It’s wonderful to read about their growing bond. Reenie is trying to put things right after 60 years and Matilda apart from helping her learns more about her grandfather and of course also has a love interest. The people they meet on the way are very interesting and add a lot to the story.
I really love the idea behind this book and it’s impressive how Miranda always comes up with something new and unique.
It’s great to follow these lovely characters around the UK and discovering more and more about them. I think the title is perfect for this book and both women and their stories. Miranda’s writing has the capability to put a smile on your face, it’s full of emotions and depth.
There was something stopping me from completely diving into the book and it’s really hard to explain. I guess it was especially Mattie’s grandfathers part and past that didn’t come through for me. It’s still a gorgeous story with a very unique touch.
October 31, 2016
I have loved reading all of Miranda Dickinson's books. This new book is very different to her previous novels, but I still loved it.
It's a gently-paced story of a road trip with a difference. For a start, it leaves behind the glamorous locations of earlier novels and is firmly rooted right back here in England. But what it lacks in exotic location, it more than makes up for in vintage glamour, from the shop Matty runs full of 50's memorabilia to the indomitable ageing glamour-puss Reenie.
A tale of regret and sorrow, and the search for forgiveness, Miranda brings the 1950's alive through Reenie's memories and the pages of Matty's late Grandad's diary.
Nostalgia aside, the theme of friendship is explored as Matty befriends the lonely Reenie and gets a bee in her bonnet about helping the older lady right her wrongs from years ago, along with the not-so-welcome help in the form of nightclub owner Gil, who, Matty presumes, is only along for the ride in order to protect his investment.
There are some great characters in here, not least of all Matty's beloved campervan. Will Rusty survive the journey?
Searching for A Silver Lining is full of warmth, laughter and many touching moments that make this book sparkle.
It's a gently-paced story of a road trip with a difference. For a start, it leaves behind the glamorous locations of earlier novels and is firmly rooted right back here in England. But what it lacks in exotic location, it more than makes up for in vintage glamour, from the shop Matty runs full of 50's memorabilia to the indomitable ageing glamour-puss Reenie.
A tale of regret and sorrow, and the search for forgiveness, Miranda brings the 1950's alive through Reenie's memories and the pages of Matty's late Grandad's diary.
Nostalgia aside, the theme of friendship is explored as Matty befriends the lonely Reenie and gets a bee in her bonnet about helping the older lady right her wrongs from years ago, along with the not-so-welcome help in the form of nightclub owner Gil, who, Matty presumes, is only along for the ride in order to protect his investment.
There are some great characters in here, not least of all Matty's beloved campervan. Will Rusty survive the journey?
Searching for A Silver Lining is full of warmth, laughter and many touching moments that make this book sparkle.
October 21, 2016
Such a beautifully written book, with characters who instantly made you feel like you knew them.
When Mattie loses her Grandfather who she hasn't spoken to for some time she makes a promise at his graveside to make amends.
Reenie Silver has a starlit past, and secrets that she has kept for 60 years, when Mattie and Reenie get together on a journey to recconcile both their past they don't expect it to have so many twists and turns.
This is Miranda Dickinson at her best.
When Mattie loses her Grandfather who she hasn't spoken to for some time she makes a promise at his graveside to make amends.
Reenie Silver has a starlit past, and secrets that she has kept for 60 years, when Mattie and Reenie get together on a journey to recconcile both their past they don't expect it to have so many twists and turns.
This is Miranda Dickinson at her best.
November 7, 2016
This took me a while to get in to - I think because I was in a bit of a reading slump not because of the book. Once I was in it was the usual style of quirky awesomeness that I have come to know and expect from Dickinson. I loved the vintage shop, the 50s theme and the friendship with Reenie. Fantastic.
January 5, 2017
I just,had to keep reading
A story of twist and turns, of lost loves and regrets and a road trip many of us would love to have the courage to undertake.
If I could I would have read cover to cover in day, but glad I didn't as it left me wondering what the next revelation would be.
I have read all of Miranda books as the get me hooked from the start! Roll on the next one
A story of twist and turns, of lost loves and regrets and a road trip many of us would love to have the courage to undertake.
If I could I would have read cover to cover in day, but glad I didn't as it left me wondering what the next revelation would be.
I have read all of Miranda books as the get me hooked from the start! Roll on the next one
August 24, 2016
Gorgeous and glorious. So lucky to get an early copy, but it is totally worth waiting for.
November 7, 2016
Really liked this book and loved Renee, exactly how I would like to be when I get to her age.
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