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Glass Houses: A moving story of redemption
'When she sent that text, all our lives changed forever...'
A single moment can change everything....
51 year old Tori Williams' life implodes when she sends a text while driving on the M62 motorway and allegedly causes the horrific crash in which three people die. Public and press are baying for her blood, but Tori is no wallflower and refuses to buckle under their pressure or be a pariah in society.
Instead, she sets about saving the nation. But can she save Etta, the woman who saved her life? Or will Etta's secret be her downfall?
This incredibly topical and contemporary morality tale appeals across generations and will find favour with fans of authors such as Liane Moriarty, Marian Keyes and Kathryn Croft.
A single moment can change everything....
51 year old Tori Williams' life implodes when she sends a text while driving on the M62 motorway and allegedly causes the horrific crash in which three people die. Public and press are baying for her blood, but Tori is no wallflower and refuses to buckle under their pressure or be a pariah in society.
Instead, she sets about saving the nation. But can she save Etta, the woman who saved her life? Or will Etta's secret be her downfall?
This incredibly topical and contemporary morality tale appeals across generations and will find favour with fans of authors such as Liane Moriarty, Marian Keyes and Kathryn Croft.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2016
About the author
Jackie Buxton
2 books10 followersJackie Buxton is a writer, editor and teacher of creative writing, living in Yorkshire with her husband and two teenage daughters. Author of self-help memoir, Tea & Chemo (Urbane Publications, November 2015), Amazon Kindle Bestseller 2019 and winner of the Live Better With, Best Cancer Book 2017, Jackie's first novel, Glass Houses, was published in July 2016. It's about two women, their terrible mistakes, the repercussions and the silver linings. Jackie's short stories can also be found in three anthologies, as well as in Chase Magazine and on-line.
When not writing or reading, involved in domesticity or teenage taxi driving, Jackie can often be found running, cycling or tripping up though the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. Jackie's ambitions range from drinking more coffee with friends, to film deals and the big one: beating secondary breast cancer.
When not writing or reading, involved in domesticity or teenage taxi driving, Jackie can often be found running, cycling or tripping up though the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. Jackie's ambitions range from drinking more coffee with friends, to film deals and the big one: beating secondary breast cancer.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 5, 2016
This is an assured debut novel from Jackie Buxton. I particularly enjoyed the exploration of modern day witch hunts and how people think they have the right to judge everyone. Complex, messy characters that are true to life and without giving anything away, the ending really shocked me and left me with a tear in my eye.
November 15, 2016
I had been wanting to read this novel for a while after having seen the blurb. The use of mobile phones in cars is rapidly becoming (and rightly so) very socially taboo. The advertising campaigns against drivers who do this are becoming more and more harrowing and high profile. It is also a controversial topic; it is highly emotive and it is also incredibly relevant to society at this point in time.
What I liked about Buxton's book was that the person texting in the car was actually a 51 year old woman - a wife and mother - a woman who is responsible, bright and professional. She is not one of the stereotypes that springs to mind with this crime, or who people automatically and judgementally think of- not a reckless teenager, a speeding boy racer. This is one very normal women who makes one decision that has a devastating impact on the rest of her life and the lives of several others as well. I liked that at the beginning it is not immediately clear who caused the accident, or how, and this in itself challenges our preconceptions of what is dangerous driving and who we might immediately suspect if we'd come across the same horrific scene.
What I also liked was that Buxton uses this situation to explore the bigger idea that we've all taken a risk, done the thing we shouldn't have, made a mistake, made the wrong decision - the question is, how do we bring ourselves back from this? How do we atone for this?
I like a book that makes me do a bit of work. I like a book that drip feeds alluring details that hint of a complicated back story and lingering secrets hidden in the back of the characters wardrobes and this novel certainly does this. As we alternate between the narratives of Tori (the driver allegedly causing the accident) and Etta (from one of the other cars in the accident) we learn through Etta's conversations with her best friend Sara that she also has more to hide:
"'Ok.' Sara held up her hands. 'I understand that some secrets do more harm if they're told.'"
Sara has known Etta for a long time and has clearly a much deeper understanding of her character than the reader. This is a really effective way of showing the reader that Etta is a complicated character and not necessarily reliable as a narrator. Etta's obsessive and destructive behaviour generates tension, suspense, action and concern as well as making the reader want to read on and find answers to all their questions. The tension between Sara and Etta is a really effective plot device and increases throughout the novel until eventually Sara calls time on Etta's increasingly worrying behaviour.
"Stop it Etta," she said, "No more excuses. I can't be part of this."
This book is a difficult read too. The subject matter is harrowing, heart wrenching, controversial and tests our sympathy and empathy for each character at varying different stages in the story. There are also some very poignant observations within the dialogue between characters.
"Moments in our past can haunt us in these circumstances can't they?"
"When your child dies, you die."
This is a very contemporary novel and Buxton has incorporated the role of Twitter and social media very naturally within this story. The use of hashtags and viral threads increases the tension and drama as well as illustrating how far the ripples from this one moment spread and just how life changing the whole event becomes as #ToritheTextingKiller has to come to terms with everything that has happened. I loved this description of Tori at the press conference:
"More questions pinged at her like bees escaping a hive; so many stings they were indistinguishable from each other."
Tori's performance at the press conference was very moving. She is a woman who wants to atone for what has happened, that is prepared to almost jeopardise everything her husband and lawyer have worked to protect, so deep is her guilt, grief and empathy. The scene is completely compelling and I swung between feeling Tori's pain and admiring her brave, heartfelt responses to the lawyer's cringing impatience to just get her away from the press and out of the back door. It will surely be a scene that divides opinions amongst readers and discussions in book groups.
There are frequent references to broken glass throughout the whole novel; the pane in the green house, glass shattered on the floor, glass shattered at the scene of the crash, knocked glasses from the table.... Sometimes subtle, sometimes more conspicuous, Buxton is clearly using glass metaphorically to illustrate the fragility of life as well as the saying "People in Glass Houses...." which touches on the ideas of judgement, blame and prejudice in the story.
There are some wise words spoken by the characters. There is a lot to think about. But this novel does not preach to the readers, it is not trying to teach us a moral code. Ultimately it is a good story of two women who have to live with the mistakes and decisions they have made, and how they try to move forward with this.
"Nobody walks across this earth unblemished," she said. "It's how we deal with our mistakes which makes us who we are."
One of the reviewers on Goodreads refers to this book as a "moral maze" and I think that actually summarises the novel very well. I would recommend this book. It's not an easy read, it's not really a happy read but it is an important one. Buxton can clearly handle a complicated topic and can develop realistic characters. This novel would be a great choice for fans of Liane Moriarty, Kathryn Croft and Jodi Picioult.
What I liked about Buxton's book was that the person texting in the car was actually a 51 year old woman - a wife and mother - a woman who is responsible, bright and professional. She is not one of the stereotypes that springs to mind with this crime, or who people automatically and judgementally think of- not a reckless teenager, a speeding boy racer. This is one very normal women who makes one decision that has a devastating impact on the rest of her life and the lives of several others as well. I liked that at the beginning it is not immediately clear who caused the accident, or how, and this in itself challenges our preconceptions of what is dangerous driving and who we might immediately suspect if we'd come across the same horrific scene.
What I also liked was that Buxton uses this situation to explore the bigger idea that we've all taken a risk, done the thing we shouldn't have, made a mistake, made the wrong decision - the question is, how do we bring ourselves back from this? How do we atone for this?
I like a book that makes me do a bit of work. I like a book that drip feeds alluring details that hint of a complicated back story and lingering secrets hidden in the back of the characters wardrobes and this novel certainly does this. As we alternate between the narratives of Tori (the driver allegedly causing the accident) and Etta (from one of the other cars in the accident) we learn through Etta's conversations with her best friend Sara that she also has more to hide:
"'Ok.' Sara held up her hands. 'I understand that some secrets do more harm if they're told.'"
Sara has known Etta for a long time and has clearly a much deeper understanding of her character than the reader. This is a really effective way of showing the reader that Etta is a complicated character and not necessarily reliable as a narrator. Etta's obsessive and destructive behaviour generates tension, suspense, action and concern as well as making the reader want to read on and find answers to all their questions. The tension between Sara and Etta is a really effective plot device and increases throughout the novel until eventually Sara calls time on Etta's increasingly worrying behaviour.
"Stop it Etta," she said, "No more excuses. I can't be part of this."
This book is a difficult read too. The subject matter is harrowing, heart wrenching, controversial and tests our sympathy and empathy for each character at varying different stages in the story. There are also some very poignant observations within the dialogue between characters.
"Moments in our past can haunt us in these circumstances can't they?"
"When your child dies, you die."
This is a very contemporary novel and Buxton has incorporated the role of Twitter and social media very naturally within this story. The use of hashtags and viral threads increases the tension and drama as well as illustrating how far the ripples from this one moment spread and just how life changing the whole event becomes as #ToritheTextingKiller has to come to terms with everything that has happened. I loved this description of Tori at the press conference:
"More questions pinged at her like bees escaping a hive; so many stings they were indistinguishable from each other."
Tori's performance at the press conference was very moving. She is a woman who wants to atone for what has happened, that is prepared to almost jeopardise everything her husband and lawyer have worked to protect, so deep is her guilt, grief and empathy. The scene is completely compelling and I swung between feeling Tori's pain and admiring her brave, heartfelt responses to the lawyer's cringing impatience to just get her away from the press and out of the back door. It will surely be a scene that divides opinions amongst readers and discussions in book groups.
There are frequent references to broken glass throughout the whole novel; the pane in the green house, glass shattered on the floor, glass shattered at the scene of the crash, knocked glasses from the table.... Sometimes subtle, sometimes more conspicuous, Buxton is clearly using glass metaphorically to illustrate the fragility of life as well as the saying "People in Glass Houses...." which touches on the ideas of judgement, blame and prejudice in the story.
There are some wise words spoken by the characters. There is a lot to think about. But this novel does not preach to the readers, it is not trying to teach us a moral code. Ultimately it is a good story of two women who have to live with the mistakes and decisions they have made, and how they try to move forward with this.
"Nobody walks across this earth unblemished," she said. "It's how we deal with our mistakes which makes us who we are."
One of the reviewers on Goodreads refers to this book as a "moral maze" and I think that actually summarises the novel very well. I would recommend this book. It's not an easy read, it's not really a happy read but it is an important one. Buxton can clearly handle a complicated topic and can develop realistic characters. This novel would be a great choice for fans of Liane Moriarty, Kathryn Croft and Jodi Picioult.
August 16, 2016
A literary moral dilemma novel about an accident with far reaching consequences.
The main protagonist 51 year old Victoria or Tori is a complex and difficult character to like. The book starts with her in her car in a motorway pile up badly injured. That the accident was her fault is not in dispute, she selfishly texted her husband moments before the crash.
With her, trying to help is Etta, giving a little first aid and comfort until the paramedics arrive.
We next meet Tori in hospital, with no memory of the accident she has been badly injured, it looks as though her life and her families, will never be the same again. Sadly neither will the lives of others caught up in this avoidable tragedy. Deaths have occurred and as Tori gradually begins her slow recovery it becomes apparent that publicity means she has become a reviled character, synonymous with the evils of using a mobile phone whilst driving. Even whilst she lies at deaths door it’s her family members reactions to her involvement and public opinion and outcry which begin to shape the days to come.
But she has grit and determination and despite her injuries and public opinion begins to try and make amends. This is a story of human feelings and reactions and I must admit I was very aware throughout that this was fiction as I found it very difficult to reconcile quite a few peoples reactions to different situations faced in this book.
I found this human interest story to be a gripping read, despite not really warming to the lead characters, I find their motives are hard for me personally to understand. But nobody does behave exactly as one would expect in situations, so what makes it hard to believe in some ways also makes it seem more authentic, if you get my gist.
However it’s a real page turner which kept me wondering what was going to happen next as we follow the story of the two women Tori and Etta in the aftermath, both have hidden agendas and neither is finding life simple. This is a book which proves the old adage that women are like tea bags you never know how strong they are until you immerse them in hot water.
There are lots of well rounded secondary characters whose lives become enmeshed, there’s Steve the determined paparazzo who spends his time lurking behind a bush in Tori’s garden waiting for his big break and Tori’s stepfather who provides a little light relief with his serial relationships with unsuitable women, his comb over and dyed hair and terror of growing old.
In fact what sounds as though it could be a thoroughly gloomy book, albeit tackling some gritty and dark subject matter is dealt with using a stroke of human interest humour here and there which reprieves the harshness.
It’s a clever and thought provoking book which entertains and makes you think without being too preachy. Oh, but the ending was a bit of a kick up the butt and really not what I was expecting at all, and I can say no more for fear of spoiling your enjoyment.
The main protagonist 51 year old Victoria or Tori is a complex and difficult character to like. The book starts with her in her car in a motorway pile up badly injured. That the accident was her fault is not in dispute, she selfishly texted her husband moments before the crash.
With her, trying to help is Etta, giving a little first aid and comfort until the paramedics arrive.
We next meet Tori in hospital, with no memory of the accident she has been badly injured, it looks as though her life and her families, will never be the same again. Sadly neither will the lives of others caught up in this avoidable tragedy. Deaths have occurred and as Tori gradually begins her slow recovery it becomes apparent that publicity means she has become a reviled character, synonymous with the evils of using a mobile phone whilst driving. Even whilst she lies at deaths door it’s her family members reactions to her involvement and public opinion and outcry which begin to shape the days to come.
But she has grit and determination and despite her injuries and public opinion begins to try and make amends. This is a story of human feelings and reactions and I must admit I was very aware throughout that this was fiction as I found it very difficult to reconcile quite a few peoples reactions to different situations faced in this book.
I found this human interest story to be a gripping read, despite not really warming to the lead characters, I find their motives are hard for me personally to understand. But nobody does behave exactly as one would expect in situations, so what makes it hard to believe in some ways also makes it seem more authentic, if you get my gist.
However it’s a real page turner which kept me wondering what was going to happen next as we follow the story of the two women Tori and Etta in the aftermath, both have hidden agendas and neither is finding life simple. This is a book which proves the old adage that women are like tea bags you never know how strong they are until you immerse them in hot water.
There are lots of well rounded secondary characters whose lives become enmeshed, there’s Steve the determined paparazzo who spends his time lurking behind a bush in Tori’s garden waiting for his big break and Tori’s stepfather who provides a little light relief with his serial relationships with unsuitable women, his comb over and dyed hair and terror of growing old.
In fact what sounds as though it could be a thoroughly gloomy book, albeit tackling some gritty and dark subject matter is dealt with using a stroke of human interest humour here and there which reprieves the harshness.
It’s a clever and thought provoking book which entertains and makes you think without being too preachy. Oh, but the ending was a bit of a kick up the butt and really not what I was expecting at all, and I can say no more for fear of spoiling your enjoyment.
September 8, 2016
Sometimes we act without thinking through the consequences, after all it will not happen to me it will always be someone else it will happen too. In her debut novel, Glass Houses Jackie Buxton has written a well-researched novel about what happens when one person’s actions have grave consequences for others around them.
The story follows Tori Williams as she comes to terms with the tragic consequences of her actions while sending a text message as she drove her car, the resulting crash caused the deaths of three people. People’s lives are forever changed. In a deeply thought provoking novel we see the immediate aftermath of the crash and how Etta one of the leading characters looks after Tori until the emergency services arrive and then the story begins to unfold as a number of other characters come into the story and how it has affected those families who strain as you can imagine. This at times is a moving and deeply effecting debut novel novel that is so well researched. Tori tries to rebuild her life despite the pressure she is under just think of the role of the media who place her under siege and the effect this has on everyone around her. The blame game is played out to the public and how the public perceive Tori and her role in the crash.
There are many themes that come into play in a novel such as Glass Houses, guilt, blame and recovery are seen through what I can only think of is a camera lens. There are many twist and turns that make this a well-structured novel that you will not want to put down in any great hurry. The one great aspect I found with Jackie’s writing is that she deliberately made each chapter short so in a book covering just under 500 pages there are many chapters which makes this an ideal commuter read. Because of the story line and the many themes, it covers I believe this would be perfect for any book group.
There is an ending to this story that I will not giveaway here, this is something you the reader should discover for yourself. I have to admit to really enjoying Glass Houses and its characters and their flaws which make them as normal as you and me. As I said at the beginning of this review, this could happen to anyone of us it is that real.
Thank you to Urbane Publications for the review copy.
The story follows Tori Williams as she comes to terms with the tragic consequences of her actions while sending a text message as she drove her car, the resulting crash caused the deaths of three people. People’s lives are forever changed. In a deeply thought provoking novel we see the immediate aftermath of the crash and how Etta one of the leading characters looks after Tori until the emergency services arrive and then the story begins to unfold as a number of other characters come into the story and how it has affected those families who strain as you can imagine. This at times is a moving and deeply effecting debut novel novel that is so well researched. Tori tries to rebuild her life despite the pressure she is under just think of the role of the media who place her under siege and the effect this has on everyone around her. The blame game is played out to the public and how the public perceive Tori and her role in the crash.
There are many themes that come into play in a novel such as Glass Houses, guilt, blame and recovery are seen through what I can only think of is a camera lens. There are many twist and turns that make this a well-structured novel that you will not want to put down in any great hurry. The one great aspect I found with Jackie’s writing is that she deliberately made each chapter short so in a book covering just under 500 pages there are many chapters which makes this an ideal commuter read. Because of the story line and the many themes, it covers I believe this would be perfect for any book group.
There is an ending to this story that I will not giveaway here, this is something you the reader should discover for yourself. I have to admit to really enjoying Glass Houses and its characters and their flaws which make them as normal as you and me. As I said at the beginning of this review, this could happen to anyone of us it is that real.
Thank you to Urbane Publications for the review copy.
February 7, 2017
The basic premise of this book is so topical – woman causes multi-car pile-up resulting in the death of three people because she sent a text while driving. But this isn’t a teenager fresh from her driving test, flirting with her boyfriend, or a young woman confirming arrangements for a girls night out. It’s a respectable, intelligent, professional, fifty-something wife and mother, who sends a text reminding her husband to put the chicken in the oven. So, from the outset, our preconceptions and expectations are challenged, and that’s the way it stays for the duration of the book – right up until the breathtakingly shocking denouement. You will audibly gasp, I promise. You may even swear – I did! Jackie Buxton takes the reader on a thought-provoking, emotional, and at times uncomfortable journey, with a lot of soul searching and internal monologue going on with every turn of the page. It’s a cracking read, and a book that will stay with you long after that final gasp.
July 18, 2016
Thank you to NetGalley and Urbane Publications for an ARC of Glass Houses by Jackie Buxton in exchange for an honest review.
51 year old Tori Williams' sends a text while driving on the M62 motorway and allegedly causes the horrific crash which causes the death of 3 people. Members of the press and public slay her but she will not be let them defeat her. Etta saves Tori’s life – and in doing so is ostracized, even though she should be deemed a hero.
Unfortunately, this book was a tough read for me - it did not flow well and was very hard for me to get through. The characters were underdeveloped and hard for me to imagine. All in all a disappointing read.
Published: July 18, 2016;
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley.
51 year old Tori Williams' sends a text while driving on the M62 motorway and allegedly causes the horrific crash which causes the death of 3 people. Members of the press and public slay her but she will not be let them defeat her. Etta saves Tori’s life – and in doing so is ostracized, even though she should be deemed a hero.
Unfortunately, this book was a tough read for me - it did not flow well and was very hard for me to get through. The characters were underdeveloped and hard for me to imagine. All in all a disappointing read.
Published: July 18, 2016;
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley.
July 29, 2016
Thank you Netgalley for my free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
This whole book starts because a middle aged woman, Tori, sent a quick text to her husband whilst driving home. She has an accident and kills three people.. Ok, I have to be totally honest and say that I didn't really like this book. I found it boring and had to really push myself to finish. I understand the premise behind the story, I do. It is an isuue that is in our everyday life, but I found it hard to believe the enormity of outrage in the press of this story. When you watch the News at night I feel that there is more pressing issues right in your face than this. Sorry but I was bored. Good luck for your next endeavour.
This whole book starts because a middle aged woman, Tori, sent a quick text to her husband whilst driving home. She has an accident and kills three people.. Ok, I have to be totally honest and say that I didn't really like this book. I found it boring and had to really push myself to finish. I understand the premise behind the story, I do. It is an isuue that is in our everyday life, but I found it hard to believe the enormity of outrage in the press of this story. When you watch the News at night I feel that there is more pressing issues right in your face than this. Sorry but I was bored. Good luck for your next endeavour.
December 8, 2016
A well written & thought provoking novel centred around a topic that we can all relate to. It was very easy to read - short chapters help when time is short! Personally, I would have welcomed a little light relief every now & then to vary the mood... but, that aside, the story did keep me interested & I quite liked the way the chapters alternated between the two main characters & their respective coping mechanisms for dealing with the aftermath of the accident & its subsequent impact on their relationships, households & families. The ending was a surprise &, for me, a tad disappointing - I would have preferred some kind of epilogue if only to satisfy my own need for closure! An enjoyable read nonetheless :)
July 7, 2016
Tori was just an ordinary woman who made a mistake that many others have made- she was texting & driving. Unfortunately her mistake led to loss of life and to Tori becoming a hate figure, hounded by the paparazzi.
Her accident and her struggle with horrific injuries changed Tori. Whilst fully accepting her culpability she began a movement to try to get people to apologise for past mistakes. To get away from the damage caused by a society where there is no such thing as an accident.
At times the narrative was somewhat confused but overall I found this a very thought provoking book. I really didn't see the ending coming.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read and review this book
Her accident and her struggle with horrific injuries changed Tori. Whilst fully accepting her culpability she began a movement to try to get people to apologise for past mistakes. To get away from the damage caused by a society where there is no such thing as an accident.
At times the narrative was somewhat confused but overall I found this a very thought provoking book. I really didn't see the ending coming.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read and review this book
August 2, 2016
It took me a little while to get into the book but I'm glad I didn't stop because it gets better and better. Such an original and emotive subject.Texting while driving isn't something I have ever tried but there must be millions out there who have. Buxton shows tells this story from all sides.The characters are very real and I'm sure we could all see ourselves being at least one of them.
August 2, 2016
A modern day Morality tale that is well written and has you glued to the page.Ms Buxton plays our emotions like a virtuoso violinist giving a concert on a Stradivarius violin and I look forward to following her writing career
February 7, 2017
Topical, tragic, telling. Yorkshire author Jackie Buxton's first novel doesn't disappoint. I took this on holiday with me and didn't want it to end. I somehow managed to save the final two chapters until well after I returned home (lots to do). I couldn't cope with the both end of a great holiday and the conclusion of a gripping tale in one fell swoop. I was glad I was sitting comfortably at home, the finale came like a bolt from the blue. I love the unexpected. I'm always slightly down at the end of a good book - not because it's badly-written, quite the opposite. A great novel leaves me wanting more - or at least something of similar quality to replace it. This is one of those books. It couldn't be more topical. Tori, 51, turns her life - and that of those around her - on its head when she sends a text while driving on the motorway, with deadly consequences. An all-too-familar tale and one which has seen a major change in the laws over the use of mobile phones by motorists.
Jackie Buxton takes us on a rollercoaster journey as Tori tries to come to terms with the consequences of her actions. We see the implications it has on Tori, her family, friends and witnesses - and the bereaved. Emotions run riot. Mine went from hate to sympathy and everything in between. Jackie has clearly done a huge amount of homework here on the aftermath of fatal road collisions and for that she should be applauded. Not an easy subject but a novel packed with tension and some wonderful writing. Bravo Jackie Buxton, this is quite a journey. Hard to believe it's a debut novel. Fasten your seatbelt and find out for yourself.
Jackie Buxton takes us on a rollercoaster journey as Tori tries to come to terms with the consequences of her actions. We see the implications it has on Tori, her family, friends and witnesses - and the bereaved. Emotions run riot. Mine went from hate to sympathy and everything in between. Jackie has clearly done a huge amount of homework here on the aftermath of fatal road collisions and for that she should be applauded. Not an easy subject but a novel packed with tension and some wonderful writing. Bravo Jackie Buxton, this is quite a journey. Hard to believe it's a debut novel. Fasten your seatbelt and find out for yourself.
August 21, 2017
Acutely observed and cleverly constructed, this novel grabs you from the first page as the author expertly weaves her characters' world. She cocoons her readers within a fascinating tale, exploring taboos, lies and the impact of honestly and taking personal responsibility on relationships and wider society.
A fabulous read, with emotional and intriguing twists along the way. Highly recommended.
A fabulous read, with emotional and intriguing twists along the way. Highly recommended.
August 9, 2016
Thanks to netgalley and Urbane Publications for the chance to read and review this book.
First of all, I do love British books. I love the differences in speech and wording, the insight into a culture other than my own, the overall British-ness of them. Having said that, I found this one a little hard to read precisely because of the British-ness of it. There was a lot of slang or colloquialisms that I didn't get at first and had to re-read for meaning. That is purely a personal observation, however.
This is the story of a 51-year-old woman who is involved in a fatal car crash while texting. The book explores the effect of this event on Tori (the driver), as well as her husband, daughter, and the woman who came upon the crash and took care of Tori until help arrived. Their lives are all inextricably bound by the events of that day.
Before she can answer for her actions Tori must recover from her injuries, and this takes a while. Etta, the woman who cared for her until the medics arrived, is so drawn to Tori that it nearly takes over her life, but we don't find out why she is so obsessed until later in the book. There is a reason, and if you think about it you will probably figure it out yourself.
Doug, Tori's husband, must deal with the way his own life as a headmaster is affected by Tori's actions and their fallout. And why is one of their children so desperate to get away that she goes all the way to Australia?
In the end, all of those involved are marked by the events of that day and in various ways. There is a sort of happy ending before the book turns it on its ear and ends rather abruptly, I thought. I won't give away spoilers, but I was not pleased with the ending at all, although there was a sort of poetic justice involved.
I gave the book three stars, in part because I felt there was a lot of repetition in the characters' dialogue. They seemed to say the same things over and over to each other, with no resolution. At times the plot plodded along for this reason. And then the ending made me feel like I had wasted my time reading the book.
First of all, I do love British books. I love the differences in speech and wording, the insight into a culture other than my own, the overall British-ness of them. Having said that, I found this one a little hard to read precisely because of the British-ness of it. There was a lot of slang or colloquialisms that I didn't get at first and had to re-read for meaning. That is purely a personal observation, however.
This is the story of a 51-year-old woman who is involved in a fatal car crash while texting. The book explores the effect of this event on Tori (the driver), as well as her husband, daughter, and the woman who came upon the crash and took care of Tori until help arrived. Their lives are all inextricably bound by the events of that day.
Before she can answer for her actions Tori must recover from her injuries, and this takes a while. Etta, the woman who cared for her until the medics arrived, is so drawn to Tori that it nearly takes over her life, but we don't find out why she is so obsessed until later in the book. There is a reason, and if you think about it you will probably figure it out yourself.
Doug, Tori's husband, must deal with the way his own life as a headmaster is affected by Tori's actions and their fallout. And why is one of their children so desperate to get away that she goes all the way to Australia?
In the end, all of those involved are marked by the events of that day and in various ways. There is a sort of happy ending before the book turns it on its ear and ends rather abruptly, I thought. I won't give away spoilers, but I was not pleased with the ending at all, although there was a sort of poetic justice involved.
I gave the book three stars, in part because I felt there was a lot of repetition in the characters' dialogue. They seemed to say the same things over and over to each other, with no resolution. At times the plot plodded along for this reason. And then the ending made me feel like I had wasted my time reading the book.
July 6, 2016
Little hard to follow at the beginning and didn't flow at first but then at about 30% it kicked in. Still some confusing bits, at 76% it mentioned that Etta got paid for articles about the accident, how did Tori know that as I'm really sure it was never mentioned.
There were a few parts like that which were a bit random but overall a really original story with a good ending.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Urbane Publications for giving me a chance to read this book. I gave it 3 stars but it was almost a 4
There were a few parts like that which were a bit random but overall a really original story with a good ending.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Urbane Publications for giving me a chance to read this book. I gave it 3 stars but it was almost a 4
July 9, 2016
I'm really struggling to finish this one...the book is disjointed, hard to follow, characters are undeveloped; a disappointing read. Thank you to Netgalley and Urbane Publications for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2016
A good read. Perfect to take on holiday. Believable characters in a contemporary setting where one small action can change so many lives.
Would you stand up and challenge the media? Is there always someone to blame?
Would you stand up and challenge the media? Is there always someone to blame?
September 28, 2016
Lots of moral questions to send your mind working in different directions, how different ages feel about the issues is interesting too.
The main characters are all so believable, I'm left wanting to read more about Etta, Doug, Steve.... Definitely recommend!
The main characters are all so believable, I'm left wanting to read more about Etta, Doug, Steve.... Definitely recommend!
April 1, 2017
Such a thought-provoking book with a hugely topical subject at its core. I finished this novel a week or so ago but I keep thinking about it. I have never sent a text while driving, but I've sometimes glanced at my phone while in slow traffic, and I've sometimes strayed over the speed limit. Who hasn't? Tori causes the deaths of three people because she sends a text while driving. A paparazzi feeding frenzy ensues, and any attempt Tori makes to atone for her crime seems to only make matters worse, at least initially. How quick we are to apportion blame, and how blameless we see ourselves if we're lucky enough to avoid the consequences of those exact same thoughtless actions. There but for the grace of God...
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