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The Words That Fly Between Us
Lucy’s father is a successful lawyer making a killing on the property market. She and her mother want for nothing. Nothing, that is, that can be bought.
But money cannot buy Lucy the words she needs. The words to stand up to her bully of a father. The words to inspire her mother to do something about the family life that is suffocating them both. The words to become the person she wants to be.
Then Lucy finds something else: An escape route...
Soon she discovers that every building on her row is connected, through the attic, to the next. As she explores the inner lives of those who live on her street, Lucy realises that she is not the only one to suffer in silence. She also sees ways she can help some, and ways to punish those that deserve it.
But as the mighty fall, Lucy is forced to realise that while she can affect the lives of others from the safety of the attic, she will need to climb down to face her own fears.
But money cannot buy Lucy the words she needs. The words to stand up to her bully of a father. The words to inspire her mother to do something about the family life that is suffocating them both. The words to become the person she wants to be.
Then Lucy finds something else: An escape route...
Soon she discovers that every building on her row is connected, through the attic, to the next. As she explores the inner lives of those who live on her street, Lucy realises that she is not the only one to suffer in silence. She also sees ways she can help some, and ways to punish those that deserve it.
But as the mighty fall, Lucy is forced to realise that while she can affect the lives of others from the safety of the attic, she will need to climb down to face her own fears.
208 pages, Paperback
First published May 2, 2019
2 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
May 21, 2019
Whilst reading the blurb I didn’t think much to it until the moment I opened this book, something grabbed me and I just felt these overwhelming emotions that I doubt I could do any justice by attempting to describe them.
The words that fly between us is such an incredibly emotive story, Lucy is a wonderfully strong character with a great presence that I couldn’t help but connect with so easily. The way Lucy describes her art was incredible to read because my mind could picture what she was creating with ease which is very refreshing as often books pull on the basics of drawings, I would honestly love to see these pieces come to life and be present in the book somehow or even just available as posters.
The topic of abuse is very prevalent throughout the entire book and it’s spoken about in such away that it feels real and raw, I’ve read a few books where the topic of abuse is used but nothing matches up to the way the author has written about it. I feel so many emotions but the moment I began reading I felt this strong wave of sadness and as you read on it fluctuates and dampens depending upon the chapter and with this it made me want to continue on reading the book.
I did shed a few tears whilst reading this book especially when Lucy stood up to her father about the email, I just wanted to protect her and give her back her innocence. The way the author wrote each scene containing the abuse gripped my heart and made me connect with Lucy like no other has before.
Lucy just feels real...
“ I hope you feel safe all day “ will definitely be a quote I’ll carry along with me for quite some time.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I will definitely be recommending this to others, thank you netgalley and to the publishing house for allowing me to read this book, I’ll definitely be picking it up again soon.
The words that fly between us is such an incredibly emotive story, Lucy is a wonderfully strong character with a great presence that I couldn’t help but connect with so easily. The way Lucy describes her art was incredible to read because my mind could picture what she was creating with ease which is very refreshing as often books pull on the basics of drawings, I would honestly love to see these pieces come to life and be present in the book somehow or even just available as posters.
The topic of abuse is very prevalent throughout the entire book and it’s spoken about in such away that it feels real and raw, I’ve read a few books where the topic of abuse is used but nothing matches up to the way the author has written about it. I feel so many emotions but the moment I began reading I felt this strong wave of sadness and as you read on it fluctuates and dampens depending upon the chapter and with this it made me want to continue on reading the book.
I did shed a few tears whilst reading this book especially when Lucy stood up to her father about the email, I just wanted to protect her and give her back her innocence. The way the author wrote each scene containing the abuse gripped my heart and made me connect with Lucy like no other has before.
Lucy just feels real...
“ I hope you feel safe all day “ will definitely be a quote I’ll carry along with me for quite some time.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I will definitely be recommending this to others, thank you netgalley and to the publishing house for allowing me to read this book, I’ll definitely be picking it up again soon.
July 22, 2019
Wow wow wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I state the obvious in saying that books tell a story, but dammnnnnnnnnn THIS BOOK TOLD A STORY!!!!!
The book was short but it packed so much into so few pages it was incredible!!
Although it's a short read, it's not really a light-hearted one and it gave all the feels and emotions!!
It just felt so real all the way through and the way that the characters were written really made you forget that they were fictional.
This book did come with quite a lot of feels and some heavy content, so I would recommend being prepared, but definitely worth a read!!
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with a review copy! All opinions are my own.
I state the obvious in saying that books tell a story, but dammnnnnnnnnn THIS BOOK TOLD A STORY!!!!!
The book was short but it packed so much into so few pages it was incredible!!
Although it's a short read, it's not really a light-hearted one and it gave all the feels and emotions!!
It just felt so real all the way through and the way that the characters were written really made you forget that they were fictional.
This book did come with quite a lot of feels and some heavy content, so I would recommend being prepared, but definitely worth a read!!
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with a review copy! All opinions are my own.
July 3, 2019
4.5 stars
Words can be tricky. They nudge their way into the grooves of the tiles, and get wedged in tiny cracks in the plaster, and seep into the grain of the floorboards. And they stay there. If you look closely, you can see them. Our house is filling up with them. People don't realize, though. They think you can just fling them around.
I always somehow end up reading a book filled with great messages when I'm in a very bad state of mind. This is one of it. Nicely written, fulfilling plot, and great character developments.
It started with a frightened girl, who didn't like how things were going at home. Lucy was a sensitive girl, from the way I see it. She took every single thing to heart (that sounds really familiar). That's why she was quick to realise when her father started being abusive with his words and his behaviour. She was also the one who realised when her friend, Megan, was being verbally and online bullied by their other friend, Hazel. But she was afraid and she didn't know if she could stand up for herself or for others. But driven by her fear for her mother's safety, she stood up for herself and for her mother in a way she couldn't ever imagine doing. I think her character development was good.
I love how much strength was portrayed in her mother and in herself in dealing with her father's issue. Even though they started their whole plan separately, and also wrongly. But once they pulled through with it, things settled down nicely for the both of them. It pained me that her father still didn't quite understand what she was trying to tell him. And the fact that Megan finally stood up for herself because of Lucy, I love it. Girl power in one book, sort of.
"All I wanted was to feel safe."
This book highlighted some very important messages that I might have failed to mention, but I highly suggest for everyone to read it. The only reason why I didn't give this a solid 5 was because I didn't get a scene that I wanted between Lucy and her neighbour. It's personal preference.
Disclaimer: I would like to thank Pansing for sending me a copy of The Words that Fly between Us in exchange for my honest review. You can find it in all good bookstores.
Words can be tricky. They nudge their way into the grooves of the tiles, and get wedged in tiny cracks in the plaster, and seep into the grain of the floorboards. And they stay there. If you look closely, you can see them. Our house is filling up with them. People don't realize, though. They think you can just fling them around.
I always somehow end up reading a book filled with great messages when I'm in a very bad state of mind. This is one of it. Nicely written, fulfilling plot, and great character developments.
It started with a frightened girl, who didn't like how things were going at home. Lucy was a sensitive girl, from the way I see it. She took every single thing to heart (that sounds really familiar). That's why she was quick to realise when her father started being abusive with his words and his behaviour. She was also the one who realised when her friend, Megan, was being verbally and online bullied by their other friend, Hazel. But she was afraid and she didn't know if she could stand up for herself or for others. But driven by her fear for her mother's safety, she stood up for herself and for her mother in a way she couldn't ever imagine doing. I think her character development was good.
I love how much strength was portrayed in her mother and in herself in dealing with her father's issue. Even though they started their whole plan separately, and also wrongly. But once they pulled through with it, things settled down nicely for the both of them. It pained me that her father still didn't quite understand what she was trying to tell him. And the fact that Megan finally stood up for herself because of Lucy, I love it. Girl power in one book, sort of.
"All I wanted was to feel safe."
This book highlighted some very important messages that I might have failed to mention, but I highly suggest for everyone to read it. The only reason why I didn't give this a solid 5 was because I didn't get a scene that I wanted between Lucy and her neighbour. It's personal preference.
Disclaimer: I would like to thank Pansing for sending me a copy of The Words that Fly between Us in exchange for my honest review. You can find it in all good bookstores.
May 18, 2019
"I hope you feel save all day"
The feels from this book is beautiful. An amazing and easy contemporary bringing awareness to the effects of verbal abuse.
It was painful to watch Lucy and Megan experience this abuse. Lucy encountering this at home with her dad throwing words around, bullying both her and her mum when he is in a bad mood, making them feel useless and powerless. While Megan facing this from a two faced friend, who acts like a great friend in front but stabs her in the back, spreading rumors and writing hurtful comments on her blog. Thankfully Lucy and Megan had each other for support.
This story was definitely an eye opening experience for me. It showed me the pain and hurt that one goes through from this kind of abuse. It also showed me true friendship when Lucy gave Megan good advices that were true though hard to hear.
I’m not sure which genre to place this book though; Young Adult or Middle Grade. It was a bit too heavy for middle grade but a bit too light for Young Adult. I’ll let you be the judge of that.
Thank you Pansing aka @definitelybooks for sending me a copy of this book proof to review. This book is now available in all good bookstores.
The feels from this book is beautiful. An amazing and easy contemporary bringing awareness to the effects of verbal abuse.
It was painful to watch Lucy and Megan experience this abuse. Lucy encountering this at home with her dad throwing words around, bullying both her and her mum when he is in a bad mood, making them feel useless and powerless. While Megan facing this from a two faced friend, who acts like a great friend in front but stabs her in the back, spreading rumors and writing hurtful comments on her blog. Thankfully Lucy and Megan had each other for support.
This story was definitely an eye opening experience for me. It showed me the pain and hurt that one goes through from this kind of abuse. It also showed me true friendship when Lucy gave Megan good advices that were true though hard to hear.
I’m not sure which genre to place this book though; Young Adult or Middle Grade. It was a bit too heavy for middle grade but a bit too light for Young Adult. I’ll let you be the judge of that.
Thank you Pansing aka @definitelybooks for sending me a copy of this book proof to review. This book is now available in all good bookstores.
November 5, 2025
W porządku, trochę naciągane jak dla mnie.
May 3, 2019
I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I don't know how to summarize this, so I'm not going to.
I liked this book.It was short and engaging, it had interesting, layered characters. It took me a little while to figure out how old the main character was and that was a bit annoying but mostly, I really liked this coming of age story about family and friendship. A nice middle grade book that will stay with me for some time.
I don't know how to summarize this, so I'm not going to.
I liked this book.It was short and engaging, it had interesting, layered characters. It took me a little while to figure out how old the main character was and that was a bit annoying but mostly, I really liked this coming of age story about family and friendship. A nice middle grade book that will stay with me for some time.
March 1, 2019
Living with her investor stressed dad and her mum, Lucy doesn't like to be around her dad when he's in a mood and he is often, causing verbal and emotional pain on his wife and daughter.
Her best friend Megan also gets put downs from her so called friend Hazel whom makes sly comments and digs at Megan's body and about her growing blog too. Despite Lucy's efforts she can't stop her best friend being effected by Hazel...
However as an aspiring artist despite what her dad says, Lucy has a generous heart and soon gets to know the mysterious artist next door after leaving her a gift anonymously and being left a gift back in return.
The main theme in this novel is about speaking out about abuse and it's never right to have to put up with especially at home. We see how the family changes due to stress about money from her dad. We also see how it's important to follow your heart and never giving up on passions and dreams. It was a really great novel in the way we can imagine being in Lucy's shoes and having to face so many issues alone.
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
Her best friend Megan also gets put downs from her so called friend Hazel whom makes sly comments and digs at Megan's body and about her growing blog too. Despite Lucy's efforts she can't stop her best friend being effected by Hazel...
However as an aspiring artist despite what her dad says, Lucy has a generous heart and soon gets to know the mysterious artist next door after leaving her a gift anonymously and being left a gift back in return.
The main theme in this novel is about speaking out about abuse and it's never right to have to put up with especially at home. We see how the family changes due to stress about money from her dad. We also see how it's important to follow your heart and never giving up on passions and dreams. It was a really great novel in the way we can imagine being in Lucy's shoes and having to face so many issues alone.
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
May 13, 2019
I was given this ARC by NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinions on the book. Firstly, I was immediately drawn to this book from its colorful cover, it’s interesting description and from recommendations from others that this book was worth a read. It lived up to its expectations and is certainly worth it. I rated this book four out of five stars. If you have ever been bullied and just accepted that it was normal, the this book is something you need to read. Seeing it from the outside, you realize you probably let this behavior happen daily and just deal with it because, well we just think that is life! There are strong themes of abuse and bulling throughout the book.
The main character Lucy is a strong-willed, independent and creative individual. We see this world through her gaze and what a gaze it is. We see people being outcast for no reason other than they don’t ‘fit in’. We see teenage girls bullying each other but it is accepted as the normal thing for them to experience. We witness a teenage girls dreams being crushed by her less than supportive father. Finally, we see a family turned upside down, but for the right reasons. I could immediately feel a connection to Lucy. She knew what she believed in and refused to let go of it. She is a character you feel you already know. Throughout the book we witness the growth of her character and her voice as she begins to stand up for what she believes in.
The theme of abuse is dealt with a lot throughout the book. However, I believe that Carroll dealt with it well. It is spoken about with raw emotion and ignites a fire within. The book shows us how to stand up to the bullies we don’t know as well as the bullies we know all to well. We are shown bullying between teenagers and adults. We are shown how the victim in each case is naive and needs help to see that they’re not alone and deserve better. “I hope you feel safe all day” is a quote which will stay with me for quite some while.
Overall it is a very emotionally engaging novel. It grasps a hold of you and hooks you in until the very end. This is a book about friendship, self-discovery and finding your voice. Tissues may be required when reading this book, just a little tip. Thank you again to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC.
The main character Lucy is a strong-willed, independent and creative individual. We see this world through her gaze and what a gaze it is. We see people being outcast for no reason other than they don’t ‘fit in’. We see teenage girls bullying each other but it is accepted as the normal thing for them to experience. We witness a teenage girls dreams being crushed by her less than supportive father. Finally, we see a family turned upside down, but for the right reasons. I could immediately feel a connection to Lucy. She knew what she believed in and refused to let go of it. She is a character you feel you already know. Throughout the book we witness the growth of her character and her voice as she begins to stand up for what she believes in.
The theme of abuse is dealt with a lot throughout the book. However, I believe that Carroll dealt with it well. It is spoken about with raw emotion and ignites a fire within. The book shows us how to stand up to the bullies we don’t know as well as the bullies we know all to well. We are shown bullying between teenagers and adults. We are shown how the victim in each case is naive and needs help to see that they’re not alone and deserve better. “I hope you feel safe all day” is a quote which will stay with me for quite some while.
Overall it is a very emotionally engaging novel. It grasps a hold of you and hooks you in until the very end. This is a book about friendship, self-discovery and finding your voice. Tissues may be required when reading this book, just a little tip. Thank you again to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC.
September 1, 2019
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher Simon & Schuster for providing me with a digital ARC of this in exchange for an honest review.
When I saw the synopsis of this on Netgalley I couldn’t help but be drawn to it.
Sarah did a fantastic job of creating an atmosphere that even made me as a reader feel the tension and frustration that Lucy felt at home with her parents.
I loved the idea that the negativity and belittling comments were just *There* floating around taking up space long after they had actually been said.
So even when Lucy’s father was acting nice in front of other people, what had been said beforehand could never be unsaid.
The topic of abuse was apparent throughout the whole novel- not only the abuse that Lucy witnesses at home, but also bullying amongst her peers- her best friend Megan being on the receiving end of trolling comments on her popular blog from someone she had considered a friend.
I adored how Sarah wrote about Lucy and her artwork- especially the piece of the girl in the sterile room, there was something so raw about that.
I was so proud of Lucy for standing up to her dad in regards to the email and his lies, and her mother for kicking him out, it was interesting to see her slowly find her own freedom from his abuse by going out and applying for a job to get her own money and get away from him.
This novel is truly an emotional rollercoaster, especially for a short novel, the issues that Lucy and Megan both had to deal with are very easy to relate to regardless of your age, and Sarah writes in such a personal way. You could literally feel the love that Lucy’s mum had for her when she tried to protect her.
I adored the ending of Lucy opening all the windows to “clean out the house” and get rid of all those horrible words and memories of her dad.
Abuse is never ok, so try to speak out about it.
“I hope you feel safe all day”
When I saw the synopsis of this on Netgalley I couldn’t help but be drawn to it.
Sarah did a fantastic job of creating an atmosphere that even made me as a reader feel the tension and frustration that Lucy felt at home with her parents.
I loved the idea that the negativity and belittling comments were just *There* floating around taking up space long after they had actually been said.
So even when Lucy’s father was acting nice in front of other people, what had been said beforehand could never be unsaid.
The topic of abuse was apparent throughout the whole novel- not only the abuse that Lucy witnesses at home, but also bullying amongst her peers- her best friend Megan being on the receiving end of trolling comments on her popular blog from someone she had considered a friend.
I adored how Sarah wrote about Lucy and her artwork- especially the piece of the girl in the sterile room, there was something so raw about that.
I was so proud of Lucy for standing up to her dad in regards to the email and his lies, and her mother for kicking him out, it was interesting to see her slowly find her own freedom from his abuse by going out and applying for a job to get her own money and get away from him.
This novel is truly an emotional rollercoaster, especially for a short novel, the issues that Lucy and Megan both had to deal with are very easy to relate to regardless of your age, and Sarah writes in such a personal way. You could literally feel the love that Lucy’s mum had for her when she tried to protect her.
I adored the ending of Lucy opening all the windows to “clean out the house” and get rid of all those horrible words and memories of her dad.
Abuse is never ok, so try to speak out about it.
“I hope you feel safe all day”
March 31, 2020
A story about bullying, friendship and being happy with yourself that is very appropriate for intermediate and high school readers. Lucy and her friend make some very stupid choices (made me want to scream with frustration) but the writing (and ending) are good.
Highly recommended to Y7-10 (ages 11-15).
Highly recommended to Y7-10 (ages 11-15).
February 17, 2020
Nothing particularly wrong with it - just boring.
February 24, 2020
Beautiful. Just beautiful. I loved this story so much.
May 5, 2020
Very fast paced and quirky I liked the setting
May 27, 2019
Brilliant! Another good read from Sarah Carroll. So well researched and so interesting. Highly recommended. A very unusual approach and a great read for teenagers. Loved it from start to finish. Nice cover too!!
August 6, 2019
Really lovely story - touches on mature themes of abuse and divorce, but not too full on. Still very young and realistic. No language. Recommend to 11+
March 31, 2019
Beautiful words telling a grueling story that's appropriately sanitised for middle school readers.
Review to come.
Review to come.
April 19, 2019
Really enjoyed this - some brilliant messages about standing up for yourself, and the truth. I’d love to know more about Mrs Cusack’s story!
May 22, 2019
"Shaking my head, I look through the darkness of the attics. Each has a panel. A lid keeping secrets locked inside. Until we opened them."
I have really enjoyed this story and Lucy, whose perspective this story is told from is a really strong narrator. From the outset I could really feel Lucy’s varying emotions due to her father’s controlling behaviour towards her mother and also due to the fact he didn’t appreciate or understand the talent Lucy has for art and drawing. Instead, he harbours a belief she should be doing something more practical so Lucy feels a need to keep this side of her secret.
Another secret she has from her father is how, due to the terrace they live in having one long roof, their attic is part of one long tunnel linking all of the houses together. Unbeknownst to her father, Lucy has access to each house in the terrace via their ceiling panel in the attic. It is really clever how this plays an integral part as the story progresses and how each house and its occupants hold their own secrets. Moreover, as the story develops we see how Lucy deals with the knowledge she gains from overhearing a private conversation between her father and his friends in their cellar and what might happen if she finds the right words to let the world know what she has heard.
Throughout, I particularly loved all of the clever metaphors for the life the words took on for Lucy within her family home. For example how her Dad’s anger lingered in the walls and soaked through the floors. How words sometimes needed to be ducked away from or left to dissolve in the breeze for fear that they may cling on to the objects around them. The effect words had for Lucy and her friends in the online world was also very cleverly explored.
I have also found Lucy’s story to have a really important take home message about just how powerful words can be. Whether they are said aloud, written down or even not said at all. Also, about the impact on family relationships and friendships when secrets are kept and what happens to those involved when they are under threat of being uncovered. I think this book is an empowering reminder that we can always search inside of ourselves to find the words and the strength to face our fears.
I have really enjoyed this story and Lucy, whose perspective this story is told from is a really strong narrator. From the outset I could really feel Lucy’s varying emotions due to her father’s controlling behaviour towards her mother and also due to the fact he didn’t appreciate or understand the talent Lucy has for art and drawing. Instead, he harbours a belief she should be doing something more practical so Lucy feels a need to keep this side of her secret.
Another secret she has from her father is how, due to the terrace they live in having one long roof, their attic is part of one long tunnel linking all of the houses together. Unbeknownst to her father, Lucy has access to each house in the terrace via their ceiling panel in the attic. It is really clever how this plays an integral part as the story progresses and how each house and its occupants hold their own secrets. Moreover, as the story develops we see how Lucy deals with the knowledge she gains from overhearing a private conversation between her father and his friends in their cellar and what might happen if she finds the right words to let the world know what she has heard.
Throughout, I particularly loved all of the clever metaphors for the life the words took on for Lucy within her family home. For example how her Dad’s anger lingered in the walls and soaked through the floors. How words sometimes needed to be ducked away from or left to dissolve in the breeze for fear that they may cling on to the objects around them. The effect words had for Lucy and her friends in the online world was also very cleverly explored.
I have also found Lucy’s story to have a really important take home message about just how powerful words can be. Whether they are said aloud, written down or even not said at all. Also, about the impact on family relationships and friendships when secrets are kept and what happens to those involved when they are under threat of being uncovered. I think this book is an empowering reminder that we can always search inside of ourselves to find the words and the strength to face our fears.
May 13, 2019
“I received a complimentary advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
Such a nice short read! I am so glad @definitelybooks sent me an Advance copy of this. The story might not be outstanding, but what makes this book standout is the reality about today’s society regarding abuse.
It felt so real and raw. I feel Lucy’s every emotion in this book. There was anger, sadness, the eagerness for herself and for her mom to speakout. And finding the courage to do so was a big leap not only for her but also for her mom to move on and be free from her Dad’s selfish acts.
To summarize it, here are the reason why you should give this book a try:
➱ this book is also an apt discussion of abuse
➱ Lucy, is the face of every child who wanted to speak out with the abuse but fails, and learns how to find her voice in the process.
➱ this story proves that you should stand up for yourself and never put up on anyones shit.
➱ Learn how to claim how talented and different you are from others. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Always believe in yourself and be confident in whatever you do.
➱ the story shows how money can change everything.
Overall, its a nice read! The writing was so easy to be absorbed in. I just don’t like that I keep on guessing from the very start how old Lucy is. And figure it out myself by the middle of the book. But then, its good. Its definitely Go-read for middle school kids out there!
Thank you @definitelybooks and #pansing for the review copy.! This book is availble at all good bookstore.
{quote}
“𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘬𝘢𝘺. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳. 𝘏𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘮 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘴𝘢𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺. 𝘐𝘵𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘢𝘶𝘭𝘵.”
Such a nice short read! I am so glad @definitelybooks sent me an Advance copy of this. The story might not be outstanding, but what makes this book standout is the reality about today’s society regarding abuse.
It felt so real and raw. I feel Lucy’s every emotion in this book. There was anger, sadness, the eagerness for herself and for her mom to speakout. And finding the courage to do so was a big leap not only for her but also for her mom to move on and be free from her Dad’s selfish acts.
To summarize it, here are the reason why you should give this book a try:
➱ this book is also an apt discussion of abuse
➱ Lucy, is the face of every child who wanted to speak out with the abuse but fails, and learns how to find her voice in the process.
➱ this story proves that you should stand up for yourself and never put up on anyones shit.
➱ Learn how to claim how talented and different you are from others. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Always believe in yourself and be confident in whatever you do.
➱ the story shows how money can change everything.
Overall, its a nice read! The writing was so easy to be absorbed in. I just don’t like that I keep on guessing from the very start how old Lucy is. And figure it out myself by the middle of the book. But then, its good. Its definitely Go-read for middle school kids out there!
Thank you @definitelybooks and #pansing for the review copy.! This book is availble at all good bookstore.
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“𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘬𝘢𝘺. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳. 𝘏𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘮 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘴𝘢𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘦. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺. 𝘐𝘵𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘧𝘢𝘶𝘭𝘵.”
April 15, 2019
A story with a main character that deals with realistic issues and having the courage to do something to make things right again. It wasn't an overly outstanding story but what makes it special is that how real it is. That a lot of us in our society has to deal with everyday and that's what is most charming about this book.
Sorry but I need to say something real quick but the ARC edition of the book is way more stunning than the real cover. I just want to stare at the book proof most of the time, more than I care to admit. It is seriously that beautiful!!!
Back to the topic of this review, it also talks about standing up for what is right. To fight against bullies and making things straight again even if its a very hard thing to do. Not everyone has the courage to do that, its extremely hard and I am proud and happy for Lucy, her mother and her friend, for fighting for themselves—they're very own happiness.
I cannot recommend this book enough. It is a middle grade book with so many things to learn from and it also encourage the readers to actually feel motivated to do something scary that might just change our lives indefinitely. Seek what makes you happy because you earn it and no one deserves it more than me, you and everyone else in this scary world.
Sorry but I need to say something real quick but the ARC edition of the book is way more stunning than the real cover. I just want to stare at the book proof most of the time, more than I care to admit. It is seriously that beautiful!!!
Back to the topic of this review, it also talks about standing up for what is right. To fight against bullies and making things straight again even if its a very hard thing to do. Not everyone has the courage to do that, its extremely hard and I am proud and happy for Lucy, her mother and her friend, for fighting for themselves—they're very own happiness.
I cannot recommend this book enough. It is a middle grade book with so many things to learn from and it also encourage the readers to actually feel motivated to do something scary that might just change our lives indefinitely. Seek what makes you happy because you earn it and no one deserves it more than me, you and everyone else in this scary world.
April 5, 2019
While Lucy’s escape route into the attic and the conundrum of her hiding next-door neighbour are set up as the mysteries of this book, neither is what made the story magical for me. Instead it was the Lucy herself.
The Words That Fly Between Us is quiet and tense. Sarah Carroll conveys Lucy’s environment excellently. Within the first few pages I was on edge. My concern for Lucy grew from there. With each new incident my heart broke a little more.
I also enjoyed how the author used Lucy’s love for art to express Lucy’s emotions. There are several moments that stand out but the most impressive one is towards the end as Lucy’s loses herself in drawing a picture over many pages she sticks together. The writing describes Lucy’s art so that the reader can almost see her draw. I appreciated this a lot.
Sarah Carroll’s debut is a captivating and emotional read.
The Words That Fly Between Us is quiet and tense. Sarah Carroll conveys Lucy’s environment excellently. Within the first few pages I was on edge. My concern for Lucy grew from there. With each new incident my heart broke a little more.
I also enjoyed how the author used Lucy’s love for art to express Lucy’s emotions. There are several moments that stand out but the most impressive one is towards the end as Lucy’s loses herself in drawing a picture over many pages she sticks together. The writing describes Lucy’s art so that the reader can almost see her draw. I appreciated this a lot.
Sarah Carroll’s debut is a captivating and emotional read.
July 2, 2020
There was a lot I liked about this book and it gripped me enough to finish it pretty quickly. Her characters were very believable and realistic making it engrossing in the right ways. I loved the general theme of words and how they matter more than we realise.
What I will say though, it that it felt like a book of two halves and neither one seemed to get quite enough depth. I'm sure the intention was for it to be more of an intense snapshot into this family's life so I understand that. I just thought there was opportunity to expand. Especially with the character of the neighbour, Ms Cusack.
Also, I'm still no 100% sure how old the girls are meant to be. They're starting a new school in September but the book and the characters seem at least a year or two older? It was a little vague.
Still, if you're intrigued then I'd say give it a go. 👍
What I will say though, it that it felt like a book of two halves and neither one seemed to get quite enough depth. I'm sure the intention was for it to be more of an intense snapshot into this family's life so I understand that. I just thought there was opportunity to expand. Especially with the character of the neighbour, Ms Cusack.
Also, I'm still no 100% sure how old the girls are meant to be. They're starting a new school in September but the book and the characters seem at least a year or two older? It was a little vague.
Still, if you're intrigued then I'd say give it a go. 👍
March 25, 2019
Lucy lives in a perfect house, with successful parents - an outwardly perfect life. But behind the front door is a bullying Father and husband, from whom Lucy has to hide her love of art as this is not considered successful. Her Mother is also hiding something, although Lucy, wrapped up in her own world, doesn't see it.
Lucy's other secret is the entry into her attic from her bedroom - interconnecting with the whole street and other lives. For her neighbours too are harbouring secrets that Lucy is about to discover when their worlds converge.
A book about being brave and doing the right thing, seeing through the cover up to the soul -whether that be honourable or corrupt..
Lucy's other secret is the entry into her attic from her bedroom - interconnecting with the whole street and other lives. For her neighbours too are harbouring secrets that Lucy is about to discover when their worlds converge.
A book about being brave and doing the right thing, seeing through the cover up to the soul -whether that be honourable or corrupt..
September 3, 2019
I’m going to be honest, I had no expectations whatsoever when I started this book. I had no idea what it was about. And I only bought it because it was signed.
But now that I’ve read it ...
I’m glad I bought it. I started reading it in my room and then I found myself reaching for it when I was on the bus commuting to work and I usually listen to audiobooks or music when on the bus. I kept on reading it when I was on the bus home and I found myself grinning while reading. I wonder what people thought I was reading.
Long story short, I liked it. Important topics/problems were nicely wrapped into a cute little story with distinct characters.
Give it a shot. It might surprise you.
But now that I’ve read it ...
I’m glad I bought it. I started reading it in my room and then I found myself reaching for it when I was on the bus commuting to work and I usually listen to audiobooks or music when on the bus. I kept on reading it when I was on the bus home and I found myself grinning while reading. I wonder what people thought I was reading.
Long story short, I liked it. Important topics/problems were nicely wrapped into a cute little story with distinct characters.
Give it a shot. It might surprise you.
July 22, 2020
Glad I already had 'The Girl in between' somehow on my WTR shelf. Because as soon as I finished this I wants to read more by Carroll. I also need to find out more about Lucy's next door neighbour please!
Fantastic premise, great characterisation and empathy, exploring what makes a truly great friend, what trust is, how to be true to your own calling, and dealing with bullying of many kinds. All through superb balanced storytelling.
Fantastic premise, great characterisation and empathy, exploring what makes a truly great friend, what trust is, how to be true to your own calling, and dealing with bullying of many kinds. All through superb balanced storytelling.
February 14, 2019
I am emotional. This book truly wrecked me. A book all about self-discovery, friendship, getting through hard times and facing your problems, even though everything could change as a result. The discussion of abuse and people turning into someone we no longer can recognize was prevalent in this book and they feltband were so important. This story left me with tears in my eyes and a soft heart.
April 11, 2020
Three and a half stars for this entertaining YA novel. It deals effectively with issues of domestic abuse and online bullying. Lucy is an astonishingly mature teenager and it’s easy to empathise with her. I can’t quite put my finger on why I didn’t rate it higher. There are many more memorable novels in this genre.
September 24, 2019
this was a really excellent portrait of abuse and mistreatment and will stay with me for a while. carroll created a compelling character in lucy, so much so that i read it all in one sitting. highly reccomend, even to irregular readers of middle grade/lower ya.
April 3, 2019
Read & reviewed for The Bookbag: http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/i...
May 1, 2019
review coming 3/5!
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