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A Spoke In The Wheel
The first thing I saw was the wheelchair.
The first thing she saw was the doper.
Ben Goddard is an embarrassment - as a cyclist, as an athlete, as a human being. And he knows it. Now that he's been exposed by a positive drugs test, his race wins and his work with disabled children mean nothing. He quits professional cycling in a hurry, sticks a pin in a map, and sets out to build a new life in a town where nobody knows who he is or what he's done. But when the first person he meets turns out to be a cycling fan, he finds out that it's not going to be quite as easy as that.
Besides, Polly's not just a cycling fan, she's a former medical student with a chronic illness and strong opinions. Particularly when it comes to Ben Goddard...
The first thing she saw was the doper.
Ben Goddard is an embarrassment - as a cyclist, as an athlete, as a human being. And he knows it. Now that he's been exposed by a positive drugs test, his race wins and his work with disabled children mean nothing. He quits professional cycling in a hurry, sticks a pin in a map, and sets out to build a new life in a town where nobody knows who he is or what he's done. But when the first person he meets turns out to be a cycling fan, he finds out that it's not going to be quite as easy as that.
Besides, Polly's not just a cycling fan, she's a former medical student with a chronic illness and strong opinions. Particularly when it comes to Ben Goddard...
- GenresContemporaryFiction
256 pages, Paperback
Published May 5, 2018
15 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen Jowitt
8 books21 followersKathleen Jowitt was born in Winchester and grew up deep in the Welsh Marches and, subsequently, on the Isle of Wight. After completing her undergraduate degree in English Literature at the University of Exeter she moved to Guildford and found herself working for a major trade union.
She now lives in Cambridgeshire, works in London, and writes on the train. Her stories are about people who sort their own heads out and learn that they are, on the whole, not nearly such terrible human beings as they thought they were. Speak Its Name (2016) explores Christianity and sexual identity in the context of student life and politics, and was the first self-published novel ever shortlisted for the Betty Trask Prize. Her new book, A Spoke in the Wheel, was published in May 2018 and looks at physical capacity, the social model of disability, acceptance, redemption, and integrity.
She now lives in Cambridgeshire, works in London, and writes on the train. Her stories are about people who sort their own heads out and learn that they are, on the whole, not nearly such terrible human beings as they thought they were. Speak Its Name (2016) explores Christianity and sexual identity in the context of student life and politics, and was the first self-published novel ever shortlisted for the Betty Trask Prize. Her new book, A Spoke in the Wheel, was published in May 2018 and looks at physical capacity, the social model of disability, acceptance, redemption, and integrity.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 13, 2019
Thank you to the author, Kathleen Jowitt, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit that I don’t know anything about cycling, but I was intrigued after reading an extract of this book. Whilst the main characters share an interest in cycling, a knowledge of the sport is not necessary.
A Spoke in the Wheel is a character driven novel set in the UK. The three main characters are Ben, Polly and Vicki who are very different from each other and unified by cycling. The novel is narrated by Ben, a disgraced professional cyclist who is trying to make a fresh start in life after his doping past. He develops an unexpected friendship with his new housemates, Polly and Vicki.
Ben’s voice came across really well as he was able to tell his story in the first person. It also created a more intimate feel for his character. At the start of the book, I realised that, like Polly, I had made an unconscious assumption about Ben because he was a doper. Ben’s history as a professional cyclist is quite nuanced, however. The more I learnt about Ben and his thoughts and feelings, the more I warmed to him. Sometimes he speaks without thinking and acts on impulse, but deep down he’s a decent guy.
Polly and Vicki have been best friends since university. They are both cycling fans and their lives intertwine with that of Ben after the three become housemates. It was lovely reading about the friendships that this trio build together. All of them learn something valuable from each other and they have great character growth.
I appreciated the diversity in the novel and there is a range of representation, including disability, mental health, and LGBTQIA. Polly has a chronic illness and she is a wheelchair user. She is not afraid to speak her mind and I liked her no-nonsense attitude. Her best friend Vicki is a cycling enthusiast and workaholic who has stuck by Polly through everything.
This book explores the preconceptions we have of other people, whether they are disabled, a different sexual orientation, or a disgraced athlete. Polly and Ben learn to overcome their prejudices against each other as they get to know one another. I didn’t find it preachy; instead it’s an eye-opening read and includes some humorous moments.
Overall
An insightful book about redemption and friendship. A Spoke in the Wheel is a believable story with diverse and realistic characters.
I have to admit that I don’t know anything about cycling, but I was intrigued after reading an extract of this book. Whilst the main characters share an interest in cycling, a knowledge of the sport is not necessary.
A Spoke in the Wheel is a character driven novel set in the UK. The three main characters are Ben, Polly and Vicki who are very different from each other and unified by cycling. The novel is narrated by Ben, a disgraced professional cyclist who is trying to make a fresh start in life after his doping past. He develops an unexpected friendship with his new housemates, Polly and Vicki.
Ben’s voice came across really well as he was able to tell his story in the first person. It also created a more intimate feel for his character. At the start of the book, I realised that, like Polly, I had made an unconscious assumption about Ben because he was a doper. Ben’s history as a professional cyclist is quite nuanced, however. The more I learnt about Ben and his thoughts and feelings, the more I warmed to him. Sometimes he speaks without thinking and acts on impulse, but deep down he’s a decent guy.
Polly and Vicki have been best friends since university. They are both cycling fans and their lives intertwine with that of Ben after the three become housemates. It was lovely reading about the friendships that this trio build together. All of them learn something valuable from each other and they have great character growth.
I appreciated the diversity in the novel and there is a range of representation, including disability, mental health, and LGBTQIA. Polly has a chronic illness and she is a wheelchair user. She is not afraid to speak her mind and I liked her no-nonsense attitude. Her best friend Vicki is a cycling enthusiast and workaholic who has stuck by Polly through everything.
This book explores the preconceptions we have of other people, whether they are disabled, a different sexual orientation, or a disgraced athlete. Polly and Ben learn to overcome their prejudices against each other as they get to know one another. I didn’t find it preachy; instead it’s an eye-opening read and includes some humorous moments.
Overall
An insightful book about redemption and friendship. A Spoke in the Wheel is a believable story with diverse and realistic characters.
April 14, 2020
A Spoke in the Wheel is a lovely contemporary novel following the lives of a former cyclist.
Ben, our former cyclist who had to quit the sport due to a doping scandal, moves in with Vicky and Polly. All three love cycling to various degrees, and that's what brings them together. We watch these characters grow and move through life as Ben finds his solace outside of the cycling world. Polly has been ill for a while and is in a wheelchair, and is working hard to try to find her place in the world now that her dreams have changed. Vicky also loves cycling and is in a club but is also a workaholic.
The biggest thing about this book was the diversity. I liked seeing members of the LGBT community and a woman in a wheelchair. These two topics weren't shown as something mind blowing, it was just normal. This whole book felt like a coming of age and finding yourself story. It was quite lovely and simple to read. We just followed their lives.
If you like slice of life books, then this book is for you. It's a wonderfully written story just following the lives of our main characters. We watch them grow, change and react to the world around them. It was the kind of "simple" read I needed - it didn't have a complicated plot, it was easy to read and it wasn't dramatic. It's just lovely.
Overall, I'm impressed. Kathleen Jowitt has a great writing style and made Ben's voice very readable.
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to Kathleen Jowitt who provided me a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Ben, our former cyclist who had to quit the sport due to a doping scandal, moves in with Vicky and Polly. All three love cycling to various degrees, and that's what brings them together. We watch these characters grow and move through life as Ben finds his solace outside of the cycling world. Polly has been ill for a while and is in a wheelchair, and is working hard to try to find her place in the world now that her dreams have changed. Vicky also loves cycling and is in a club but is also a workaholic.
The biggest thing about this book was the diversity. I liked seeing members of the LGBT community and a woman in a wheelchair. These two topics weren't shown as something mind blowing, it was just normal. This whole book felt like a coming of age and finding yourself story. It was quite lovely and simple to read. We just followed their lives.
If you like slice of life books, then this book is for you. It's a wonderfully written story just following the lives of our main characters. We watch them grow, change and react to the world around them. It was the kind of "simple" read I needed - it didn't have a complicated plot, it was easy to read and it wasn't dramatic. It's just lovely.
Overall, I'm impressed. Kathleen Jowitt has a great writing style and made Ben's voice very readable.
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to Kathleen Jowitt who provided me a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
June 23, 2018
*** Note: I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. many thanks to author for giving me a chance to read this great book. ***
That blurb doesn’t speak much about book except that it revolves around road cycling and so it was but there was more to the book. Life literally put spoke in character’s life in this book. It was about coping with defamation, disability, and unfinished dreams; taking accountability of actions; consequences of pushing oneself beyond limits; and moving on in life.
Characters-
Ben– ex-cyclist, defamed as doper, is trying to start new life in new city with new job leaving behind his cycling career and embracement but that follows him back to this new city. Ben was really great guy, nice at heart, and ethical. I know it doesn’t sound like that looking at blurb but he truly was. I loved his honesty with his new job and new tenants- Polly and Vicki and the way he took accountability of his mistakes. His guilt and emotions felt real.
Polly– She was chronically ill and mostly have to depend on her wheelchair. Because of her illness she had to leave her studies she was pursuing to be doctor. She grumpy at first but as I got to know her more, I seriously admired her. She was clever, smart, straightforward and great friend. I loved the way she was coping with her own problems.
Vicki– was workaholic, cycling fan, and was such sweetheart. She offered Ben to share rent and live with her and Polly when all the world was out judging him for what he did. She was open-minded, understanding, and nicest friend. I loved her till the end of the book.
I loved these 3 characters of the book. Different from each other, having their own problems and living under one roof. Sharing rent and living together literally changed their lives.
What I liked-
I admit I never watched cycling sport nor I’m big fan of it. But I liked riding bicycle in childhood. I definitely agree with Ben you never forget how to ride bike once you were on it. Ah, after reading this book I again want to ride one.
It was character driven fiction, narrated by Ben, telling his story and emotions very captivating way. His accounts on what happened and why he was banned from cycling and why he didn’t fight it showed the guilt and accountability of his action even though it was obvious to him there was something amiss there. What surprised me was importance of Polly and Vicki in the story that I could not guess from the blurb. I expected it to be solely around Ben’s life but author nicely absorbed Polly and Vicki’s life with Ben’s.
I liked his development from blaming himself for everything and the way he let it go and how Polly and Vicki helped him to understand what he really wants and need to do. His discussion with Polly about racing, opinions and expectations of fans, how athletes and players push themselves beyond their limits to put up with demands and entertainment to the extent that can damage their health and how one mistakes can destroy all their work was thought-provoking. That was the best part of the book. Another part I loved was the way author displayed Polly’s emotions, problems she faces because of illness mostly in public and how people jumped to conclusions and can be opinionated towards disabled person was utterly shocking. It showed general and usual social issues, not just disabled person faces it but it happens to all of us.
I wonder why characters didn’t figure out who burgled their house! I can put my guesses there, though there wasn’t any proof, but I wish author have made that factor a basis for Polly’s decision for her relationship. Concept was great. It was easy to read and thought provoking with nice message that readers want to take from the book. There were not big turns and twist but definitely engaging and cozy read. I loved the end and how things settled at the end.
Overall, it was – great book that you can read in one sitting- thought provoking, engaging and cozy fiction. I definitely recommend this book.
That blurb doesn’t speak much about book except that it revolves around road cycling and so it was but there was more to the book. Life literally put spoke in character’s life in this book. It was about coping with defamation, disability, and unfinished dreams; taking accountability of actions; consequences of pushing oneself beyond limits; and moving on in life.
Characters-
Ben– ex-cyclist, defamed as doper, is trying to start new life in new city with new job leaving behind his cycling career and embracement but that follows him back to this new city. Ben was really great guy, nice at heart, and ethical. I know it doesn’t sound like that looking at blurb but he truly was. I loved his honesty with his new job and new tenants- Polly and Vicki and the way he took accountability of his mistakes. His guilt and emotions felt real.
Polly– She was chronically ill and mostly have to depend on her wheelchair. Because of her illness she had to leave her studies she was pursuing to be doctor. She grumpy at first but as I got to know her more, I seriously admired her. She was clever, smart, straightforward and great friend. I loved the way she was coping with her own problems.
Vicki– was workaholic, cycling fan, and was such sweetheart. She offered Ben to share rent and live with her and Polly when all the world was out judging him for what he did. She was open-minded, understanding, and nicest friend. I loved her till the end of the book.
I loved these 3 characters of the book. Different from each other, having their own problems and living under one roof. Sharing rent and living together literally changed their lives.
What I liked-
I admit I never watched cycling sport nor I’m big fan of it. But I liked riding bicycle in childhood. I definitely agree with Ben you never forget how to ride bike once you were on it. Ah, after reading this book I again want to ride one.
It was character driven fiction, narrated by Ben, telling his story and emotions very captivating way. His accounts on what happened and why he was banned from cycling and why he didn’t fight it showed the guilt and accountability of his action even though it was obvious to him there was something amiss there. What surprised me was importance of Polly and Vicki in the story that I could not guess from the blurb. I expected it to be solely around Ben’s life but author nicely absorbed Polly and Vicki’s life with Ben’s.
I liked his development from blaming himself for everything and the way he let it go and how Polly and Vicki helped him to understand what he really wants and need to do. His discussion with Polly about racing, opinions and expectations of fans, how athletes and players push themselves beyond their limits to put up with demands and entertainment to the extent that can damage their health and how one mistakes can destroy all their work was thought-provoking. That was the best part of the book. Another part I loved was the way author displayed Polly’s emotions, problems she faces because of illness mostly in public and how people jumped to conclusions and can be opinionated towards disabled person was utterly shocking. It showed general and usual social issues, not just disabled person faces it but it happens to all of us.
I wonder why characters didn’t figure out who burgled their house! I can put my guesses there, though there wasn’t any proof, but I wish author have made that factor a basis for Polly’s decision for her relationship. Concept was great. It was easy to read and thought provoking with nice message that readers want to take from the book. There were not big turns and twist but definitely engaging and cozy read. I loved the end and how things settled at the end.
Overall, it was – great book that you can read in one sitting- thought provoking, engaging and cozy fiction. I definitely recommend this book.
May 10, 2018
Ben Hubbard is a disgraced drug taking cyclist. He wants to become anonymous as he walks away from his career, instead of trying to make excuses or trying to justify his actions. He leaves his family and his lifestyle and wants to start afresh. A chance encounter with flatmates Vicki and Polly gives him the chance to a take the first steps.
This is a book I wasn’t sure what to make of from the synopsis especially as I am not really a road cycling fan. Little things caught my eye and I am so glad they did because I started the book and devoured it in one sitting. I love books that surprise me and this is one that did that.
Three characters Ben, Vicki and Polly are very different in their personalities and come across as quite a rag-tag bunch. With various aspects of their lives that make them stand out you get to learn about Ben and his past and the way he is starting from scratch. Polly is a brilliantly blunt, no-nonsense person whose chronic illness means she is reliant on a wheelchair. Finally Vicki a workaholic who likes to give people a chance and I think is something like the glue to the group.
So this is not just about cycling though it does play a role and has mentions throughout. What it is however is a story about three people and how they deal with life from three very different perspectives. Cycling is the unifying point of this group for various reasons and the author has found a wonderful balance and not allowed it to be the most important factor of the book. Kathleen allows each characters story to unfold and make themselves heard.
If you want a wonderfully addictive and absorbing character driven story then this is one I would highly recommend. It is not a depressing book by a long shot, and it is written in an honest and at times humorous way. The author has brought life to the characters on the pages as you experience the ups and downs of their lives in this realistic portrayal of three people.
This is a book I wasn’t sure what to make of from the synopsis especially as I am not really a road cycling fan. Little things caught my eye and I am so glad they did because I started the book and devoured it in one sitting. I love books that surprise me and this is one that did that.
Three characters Ben, Vicki and Polly are very different in their personalities and come across as quite a rag-tag bunch. With various aspects of their lives that make them stand out you get to learn about Ben and his past and the way he is starting from scratch. Polly is a brilliantly blunt, no-nonsense person whose chronic illness means she is reliant on a wheelchair. Finally Vicki a workaholic who likes to give people a chance and I think is something like the glue to the group.
So this is not just about cycling though it does play a role and has mentions throughout. What it is however is a story about three people and how they deal with life from three very different perspectives. Cycling is the unifying point of this group for various reasons and the author has found a wonderful balance and not allowed it to be the most important factor of the book. Kathleen allows each characters story to unfold and make themselves heard.
If you want a wonderfully addictive and absorbing character driven story then this is one I would highly recommend. It is not a depressing book by a long shot, and it is written in an honest and at times humorous way. The author has brought life to the characters on the pages as you experience the ups and downs of their lives in this realistic portrayal of three people.
September 13, 2020
Most novels focus on the rise and fall of their heroes. This one is very different because it focuses on the long, slow process of redemption. Review to follow when I am near a keyboard...
EDIT: apologies for taking so long to do this book justice. I really liked Ben. I liked his rueful self-awareness, his acknowledgement of his imperfections and willingness to do better. Polly was wonderful too, deliciously waspish though we soon learn that an ableist society has made her that way. Develops themes like that without ever being preachy or finger-waggy. Contains hope for redemption and really what's more important than that. And the cycling theme is incorporated in a way that is never overbearing. Really enjoyable read.
EDIT: apologies for taking so long to do this book justice. I really liked Ben. I liked his rueful self-awareness, his acknowledgement of his imperfections and willingness to do better. Polly was wonderful too, deliciously waspish though we soon learn that an ableist society has made her that way. Develops themes like that without ever being preachy or finger-waggy. Contains hope for redemption and really what's more important than that. And the cycling theme is incorporated in a way that is never overbearing. Really enjoyable read.
May 17, 2018
Ok so… I do not read contemporary fiction, so this was a big change for me, and I will admitt it took me maybe 40-50 pages to get really into the story. But once I hit that point I sat and read the rest of the book that evening. I just loved it!
The novel is told from Ben’s point of view, a disgraced cyclist trying to build a new life. It follows his attempt to build his new life and the friendships he develops with Polly and Vicki his new housemates. I found Ben a really interesting character, his feelings about his previous life as a professional cyclist, the guilt and shame he feels for cheating and his attitude towards both himself and his new life made for a really relate-able narrator. I think we all know deep down that we are not perfect and we all have regrets and seeing Ben deal with the consequences of his bad decision was really quite something.
Polly and Vicki become Ben’s housemates early on in the book, and we get to know them as Ben’s friendships with them develop. Vicki is so open and lovely, though slowly wearing herself out working for a charity and Polly is chronically ill, grumpy, closed off and someone who I identify with so much. I have to say that Polly really made the novel for me, and the way in which she is written is so perfect. As a person who suffers with a chronic illness I could so relate to Polly and her experiences. It was so wonderful to see a disabled character written in the story and not have their narrative be there as a prop or so that they could be miraculously fixed. Instead Kathleen has created a wonderfully well developed character who highlighted both to Ben and the reader then challenge that every day life is for some.
The further I got in to the story, the more like-able I found Ben, he becomes a better person because of his relationships with Polly and Vicki. I feel like Polly and Vicki are the first true friends Ben has, and the teach him so much. Though it does take him a while to realise that he is a person worthy of their friendship. Ben is a good example of the toxicity of guilt and how sometimes we punish ourselves because we feel we deserve it (even, or rather, especially, when we don’t)
The story is really focused and the main trio are the focus, though there are several side characters. Gianna is a wonderful character and she becomes Vicki’s girlfriend, and later Ben’s friend too. I don’t want to say too much about their relationship due to spoilers, but I did want to point out, in my review that there is a lesbian relationship in the book as I think it’s so important. The book also touches on some of the issues that members of the LGBT+ community face from both their own family and strangers.
I guess I am so used to fantasy books that I found it so amazing to read a book that was so true to life, and that there was so much diversity among the characters. This diversity allowed the book to discuss such a wide range of issues, from disability to LGBT, and discrimination to mental health. I think my favourite scene in the whole book was when Polly writes Ben a note, giving him permission to do what is best for him. I really highlights the fact that so many of us are so hard on ourselves, so much harder than we are towards friends and family.
A Spoke in the Wheel is so well written that as well as truly loving Polly, Ben and Vicki, I also loathe several characters too. I won’t name names, because I don’t want to spoil it but I you will know how I mean when you get to those parts! These characters highlight the toxicity of ignorance and show how readily people despise that which they don’t understand.
The cycling background gave the book depth and my mum (who is an avid cyclist) loved the book so much and found the sports related parts and references really interesting! I read the book from a slightly different perspective and confess I was more interested Polly and her struggles..
My only niggle with the A Spoke in the Wheel was the length. I found myself wanting just that little bit more, as though the ending was a tad rushed. And found myself wishing for maybe a chapter or two more to really help finish the book off. Though this may just be because I am used to reading books with 600+ pages. The epilogue finishes everything off quite nicely and I love that it really does highlight that stories don’t need to have the happiest endings to be a happy ending!
A Spoke in the Wheel is a wonderful and engaging read. I think it would make the perfect holiday read (my mum can vouch for that as she took it with her to Menorca on her cycling holiday and enjoyed reading it immensely.) Personally, I feel that A Spoke in the Wheel is a must read, because it gives such a clear window in to the world of living with a chronic illness and the challenges sufferers face. Ben gains so much understanding through his friendship with Polly (or even just through that one trip in to town, to visit the bank and the library) and I think that if everyone give this a read, they would gain insight in to what life can be like. And maybe people who struggle with chronic illness and disability would be understood a little better and struggle a little less.
The novel is told from Ben’s point of view, a disgraced cyclist trying to build a new life. It follows his attempt to build his new life and the friendships he develops with Polly and Vicki his new housemates. I found Ben a really interesting character, his feelings about his previous life as a professional cyclist, the guilt and shame he feels for cheating and his attitude towards both himself and his new life made for a really relate-able narrator. I think we all know deep down that we are not perfect and we all have regrets and seeing Ben deal with the consequences of his bad decision was really quite something.
Polly and Vicki become Ben’s housemates early on in the book, and we get to know them as Ben’s friendships with them develop. Vicki is so open and lovely, though slowly wearing herself out working for a charity and Polly is chronically ill, grumpy, closed off and someone who I identify with so much. I have to say that Polly really made the novel for me, and the way in which she is written is so perfect. As a person who suffers with a chronic illness I could so relate to Polly and her experiences. It was so wonderful to see a disabled character written in the story and not have their narrative be there as a prop or so that they could be miraculously fixed. Instead Kathleen has created a wonderfully well developed character who highlighted both to Ben and the reader then challenge that every day life is for some.
The further I got in to the story, the more like-able I found Ben, he becomes a better person because of his relationships with Polly and Vicki. I feel like Polly and Vicki are the first true friends Ben has, and the teach him so much. Though it does take him a while to realise that he is a person worthy of their friendship. Ben is a good example of the toxicity of guilt and how sometimes we punish ourselves because we feel we deserve it (even, or rather, especially, when we don’t)
The story is really focused and the main trio are the focus, though there are several side characters. Gianna is a wonderful character and she becomes Vicki’s girlfriend, and later Ben’s friend too. I don’t want to say too much about their relationship due to spoilers, but I did want to point out, in my review that there is a lesbian relationship in the book as I think it’s so important. The book also touches on some of the issues that members of the LGBT+ community face from both their own family and strangers.
I guess I am so used to fantasy books that I found it so amazing to read a book that was so true to life, and that there was so much diversity among the characters. This diversity allowed the book to discuss such a wide range of issues, from disability to LGBT, and discrimination to mental health. I think my favourite scene in the whole book was when Polly writes Ben a note, giving him permission to do what is best for him. I really highlights the fact that so many of us are so hard on ourselves, so much harder than we are towards friends and family.
A Spoke in the Wheel is so well written that as well as truly loving Polly, Ben and Vicki, I also loathe several characters too. I won’t name names, because I don’t want to spoil it but I you will know how I mean when you get to those parts! These characters highlight the toxicity of ignorance and show how readily people despise that which they don’t understand.
The cycling background gave the book depth and my mum (who is an avid cyclist) loved the book so much and found the sports related parts and references really interesting! I read the book from a slightly different perspective and confess I was more interested Polly and her struggles..
My only niggle with the A Spoke in the Wheel was the length. I found myself wanting just that little bit more, as though the ending was a tad rushed. And found myself wishing for maybe a chapter or two more to really help finish the book off. Though this may just be because I am used to reading books with 600+ pages. The epilogue finishes everything off quite nicely and I love that it really does highlight that stories don’t need to have the happiest endings to be a happy ending!
A Spoke in the Wheel is a wonderful and engaging read. I think it would make the perfect holiday read (my mum can vouch for that as she took it with her to Menorca on her cycling holiday and enjoyed reading it immensely.) Personally, I feel that A Spoke in the Wheel is a must read, because it gives such a clear window in to the world of living with a chronic illness and the challenges sufferers face. Ben gains so much understanding through his friendship with Polly (or even just through that one trip in to town, to visit the bank and the library) and I think that if everyone give this a read, they would gain insight in to what life can be like. And maybe people who struggle with chronic illness and disability would be understood a little better and struggle a little less.
May 12, 2018
Kathleen Jowitt's first novel, Speak its Name, was the first self-published novel to be shortlisted for the Betty Trask prize. It was also one of my favourite reads of 2016, so I was really looking forward to her second novel, A Spoke in the Wheel, which has just been released.
A Spoke in the Wheel leaves behind the university environment of Speak its Name; it's the story of former professional cyclist Ben Goddard, who has fled the world of cycling after failing a drugs test and moves to a Lancashire seaside town to try to build a new life while working two minimum wage jobs on zero hours contracts. Unfortunately, the first two people he meets are cycling fans - amateur cyclist Vicki, who drives herself to the point of exhaustion in a low-waged job for a charity, and chronically ill former medical student Polly - and after a slightly rocky start, the three end up agreeing to share a house.
I am not a cycling fan; I tend to be aware that the Tour de France is taking place because there's an annual spinning challenge, the Tour de Fleece, that takes place alongside it, and I'll half-watch it if it's on for the French scenery, but I'm not really interested in the sport itself. That didn't really matter, though; cycling may be what brings the main characters in A Spoke in the Wheel together but it's not a novel about cycling; it's a novel about people and their relationships, and about disability and what it's like to be low-waged or on benefits in Britain today, and about friendship and moving on from failure and how to work out what the things that really matter are. Like Speak its Name, it's a novel about human beings being human, in ways that are immediately recognisable even though the specific circumstances may be outside my own experience. It's funny and moving and a call to righteous anger about the way our society treats some of the most vulnerable, and I loved it.
(Because I know Kathleen Jowitt, I was also very, very amused by one scene, where Polly and Ben overhear a book group in a pub and try to work out what book they're discussing. I knew exactly what the book was, as I was in fact a participant in the original of that discussion, and was greatly entertained to find it in the book!)
A Spoke in the Wheel leaves behind the university environment of Speak its Name; it's the story of former professional cyclist Ben Goddard, who has fled the world of cycling after failing a drugs test and moves to a Lancashire seaside town to try to build a new life while working two minimum wage jobs on zero hours contracts. Unfortunately, the first two people he meets are cycling fans - amateur cyclist Vicki, who drives herself to the point of exhaustion in a low-waged job for a charity, and chronically ill former medical student Polly - and after a slightly rocky start, the three end up agreeing to share a house.
I am not a cycling fan; I tend to be aware that the Tour de France is taking place because there's an annual spinning challenge, the Tour de Fleece, that takes place alongside it, and I'll half-watch it if it's on for the French scenery, but I'm not really interested in the sport itself. That didn't really matter, though; cycling may be what brings the main characters in A Spoke in the Wheel together but it's not a novel about cycling; it's a novel about people and their relationships, and about disability and what it's like to be low-waged or on benefits in Britain today, and about friendship and moving on from failure and how to work out what the things that really matter are. Like Speak its Name, it's a novel about human beings being human, in ways that are immediately recognisable even though the specific circumstances may be outside my own experience. It's funny and moving and a call to righteous anger about the way our society treats some of the most vulnerable, and I loved it.
(Because I know Kathleen Jowitt, I was also very, very amused by one scene, where Polly and Ben overhear a book group in a pub and try to work out what book they're discussing. I knew exactly what the book was, as I was in fact a participant in the original of that discussion, and was greatly entertained to find it in the book!)
March 21, 2019
This was quite an interesting book for me. As a social educator I had classes that talk about disabilities and the challenges that people deal with daily, I have heard conferences with guests that have some kind of disability, and I have friends that have disabilities, from physical to learning disabilities. That been said, I'm always interesting in reading an author's take on those challenges and daily routines.
In this book we get Polly, and she's such a strong and outspoken character that I kind of liked her from the very beginning. And as we get to know her more, we get to see those daily challenges and her frustration is understandable. With her daily life we get to met her friend and caretaker Vicki, another important character in this book.
Both of them, Polly and Vicki, were a big part of why I enjoyed reading this story. To see their routine was a way of getting to know the characters and the circumstances why they were who they were.
Then, of course there is Ben. Ben the professional cyclist, and although we don't get an in depth journey about cycling, the sport is used as a connection element in this novel and in the characters' story. Reading about his point of view on life and what his thoughts are about Polly once he met her, was great and made me understand him more.
Overall, I liked the book. It was an enjoyable journey for me and following the characters in their daily life and see it intertwined with one another and feeling some connection to the characters, it was quite a refreshing read and what I needed at that time.
This is the first book I read of Kathleen Jowitt and I applaud her for her amazing work. I will be staying on the look out for the upcoming novels by this author. And I certainly recommend this book.
In this book we get Polly, and she's such a strong and outspoken character that I kind of liked her from the very beginning. And as we get to know her more, we get to see those daily challenges and her frustration is understandable. With her daily life we get to met her friend and caretaker Vicki, another important character in this book.
Both of them, Polly and Vicki, were a big part of why I enjoyed reading this story. To see their routine was a way of getting to know the characters and the circumstances why they were who they were.
Then, of course there is Ben. Ben the professional cyclist, and although we don't get an in depth journey about cycling, the sport is used as a connection element in this novel and in the characters' story. Reading about his point of view on life and what his thoughts are about Polly once he met her, was great and made me understand him more.
Overall, I liked the book. It was an enjoyable journey for me and following the characters in their daily life and see it intertwined with one another and feeling some connection to the characters, it was quite a refreshing read and what I needed at that time.
This is the first book I read of Kathleen Jowitt and I applaud her for her amazing work. I will be staying on the look out for the upcoming novels by this author. And I certainly recommend this book.
November 8, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I decided to accept the review request because the book discusses disability and I was intrigued, but I was worried about the themes of cycling as sport isn’t something I am generally interested in. However, the sport didn’t bother me at all, in fact, I enjoyed reading about Ben and his story as a professional cyclist. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s realistic, well written and witty.
There is also a lot of protagonist growth throughout the story which is something I always respect and enjoy reading. Ben isn’t always the most likeable character, especially at first, but this leaves him a lot of room to learn, develop and grow. And that’s exactly what happens in this book.
But the thing I loved most about this book was how it handled the subject of disability. It was very relatable, and realistic, but still told in a way that was entertaining to read. We really need more books like A Spoke In The Wheel which tackle disability in such a frank and transparent way. As someone who suffers from a chronic disability, I could really appreciate this book, but I also think it would be very eye-opening and help a lot of people without disabilities what life is really like for a spoonie (a spoonie is someone is someone living with a chronic illness, using the ‘spoon theory’ as a metaphor for the illness). I was really happy with the fact that Kathleen included the struggles with living with a disability in modern UK, including issues with invisible disabilities and public perception, using wheelchairs on narrow UK streets, and filling out benefit forms (which as everyone who’s ever had to fill one out for their disability will know IS A TOTAL NIGHTMARE!) I really related to Polly and her struggles, especially the way people look at her when she stands from her wheelchair, as these are looks I’ve been given in the past too whenever I’ve needed to use a wheelchair. SOME PEOPLE WHO USE WHEELCHAIRS CAN STILL WALK SHORT DISTANCES PEOPLE! I especially love the spoon theory imagery that Kathleen draws on for Polly’s character and that she keeps both Polly and Ben’s childhood illnesses untilted and vague so the characters remain relatable to more people (including myself as a sufferer of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome), without detracting from the story.
Also, I have to give kudos to Kathleen for including the fact that you need a proof of address to join a library in the book, that made my inner librarian smile a lot.
There is some cycling talk in the book, which I expected considering this is a book about a professional cyclist. However, considering I have no interest in sport, I found it interesting and loved the idea that sport can bring so many different kinds of people together. One thing that did make the reading hard though was the fact that there are passages in French and some sentences in Italian, and without translations, I just had to read past them which was frustrating, as I kind of wanted to know what they were saying. So that is the reason I have dropped one star. The story itself was incredible though! I also have to mention that the cover and the blerb do not do this story justice. I wouldn’t have picked this book from a shelf to buy it, but I would have missed out on so much if I’d walked past it. This story is great! It’s all about friendship, finding yourself and starting again, it’s deep, funny and extremely diverse, relatable and entertaining. But I wouldn’t get that from the cover or the description on the back.
A Spoke In The Wheel is an interesting mix of the mundane and extraordinary. Which meant that every moment of the book was interesting, and I was addicted to reading it by the end, just wanting to find out what’s going to happen next. Polly and Vicki are fantastic characters with their own voices and personalities. They are strong and dynamic and I loved reading about them and their lives. I liked Ben more and more as the book progressed too, but even from the start, when he was a bit of a mess and not quite right with his assessments of people and situations, he was still so charming and you couldn’t help but still like him.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced and easy to read and the characters and writing style were compelling. I couldn’t recommend it more, especially for someone with a chronic illness or disability as this book is so relatable, and it’s just so nice to be represented for once! Thank you so much, Kathleen, for giving us a voice.
https://racheleanne.wordpress.com/201...
There is also a lot of protagonist growth throughout the story which is something I always respect and enjoy reading. Ben isn’t always the most likeable character, especially at first, but this leaves him a lot of room to learn, develop and grow. And that’s exactly what happens in this book.
But the thing I loved most about this book was how it handled the subject of disability. It was very relatable, and realistic, but still told in a way that was entertaining to read. We really need more books like A Spoke In The Wheel which tackle disability in such a frank and transparent way. As someone who suffers from a chronic disability, I could really appreciate this book, but I also think it would be very eye-opening and help a lot of people without disabilities what life is really like for a spoonie (a spoonie is someone is someone living with a chronic illness, using the ‘spoon theory’ as a metaphor for the illness). I was really happy with the fact that Kathleen included the struggles with living with a disability in modern UK, including issues with invisible disabilities and public perception, using wheelchairs on narrow UK streets, and filling out benefit forms (which as everyone who’s ever had to fill one out for their disability will know IS A TOTAL NIGHTMARE!) I really related to Polly and her struggles, especially the way people look at her when she stands from her wheelchair, as these are looks I’ve been given in the past too whenever I’ve needed to use a wheelchair. SOME PEOPLE WHO USE WHEELCHAIRS CAN STILL WALK SHORT DISTANCES PEOPLE! I especially love the spoon theory imagery that Kathleen draws on for Polly’s character and that she keeps both Polly and Ben’s childhood illnesses untilted and vague so the characters remain relatable to more people (including myself as a sufferer of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome), without detracting from the story.
Also, I have to give kudos to Kathleen for including the fact that you need a proof of address to join a library in the book, that made my inner librarian smile a lot.
There is some cycling talk in the book, which I expected considering this is a book about a professional cyclist. However, considering I have no interest in sport, I found it interesting and loved the idea that sport can bring so many different kinds of people together. One thing that did make the reading hard though was the fact that there are passages in French and some sentences in Italian, and without translations, I just had to read past them which was frustrating, as I kind of wanted to know what they were saying. So that is the reason I have dropped one star. The story itself was incredible though! I also have to mention that the cover and the blerb do not do this story justice. I wouldn’t have picked this book from a shelf to buy it, but I would have missed out on so much if I’d walked past it. This story is great! It’s all about friendship, finding yourself and starting again, it’s deep, funny and extremely diverse, relatable and entertaining. But I wouldn’t get that from the cover or the description on the back.
A Spoke In The Wheel is an interesting mix of the mundane and extraordinary. Which meant that every moment of the book was interesting, and I was addicted to reading it by the end, just wanting to find out what’s going to happen next. Polly and Vicki are fantastic characters with their own voices and personalities. They are strong and dynamic and I loved reading about them and their lives. I liked Ben more and more as the book progressed too, but even from the start, when he was a bit of a mess and not quite right with his assessments of people and situations, he was still so charming and you couldn’t help but still like him.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced and easy to read and the characters and writing style were compelling. I couldn’t recommend it more, especially for someone with a chronic illness or disability as this book is so relatable, and it’s just so nice to be represented for once! Thank you so much, Kathleen, for giving us a voice.
https://racheleanne.wordpress.com/201...
October 29, 2018
I received this book from the author in return for an honest review, and I was instantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it and the extent to which Jowitt’s writing captivated me. The novel, at its centre, considers the question of ‘starting anew’; Ben Goddard, recently expelled from the cycling community after a drug scandal, begins the novel by running away from his past and, in this way, it is a mature ‘coming-of-age’ story. However, it is also much more than that. The book brilliantly illustrates a number of on-topic and important issues in today’s society, such as disability prejudice and the realities of competitive sport, whilst still managing to be a light-hearted, and often hilarious, page-turner. Despite being completely ignorant to the world of competitive cycling, I found the novel touching, enlightening and a compelling read.
While the novel appears, at first glance, to be centred on Ben Goddard’s expulsion from the professional cycling world, the novel’s central plotline is gradually revealed to be the realities of living with a disability in modern-day Britain. Polly, Ben’s reluctant saviour after running away from his doping past, is a beautiful character. Suffering from some un-named, and often un-seen, disability, she is at first shown to be an unlikable and opinionated character. When their paths first cross, Polly and Ben are the least likely housemates – the wheelchair-bound cycling fan, and the disgraced ex-doper. However, as circumstances force them together, and Ben begins to see the world through Polly’s eyes, both characters learn that there is more to people than first appearances – whether they are in a wheelchair, or on a bike.
The narrative of the novel is completely immersive and each of Jowitt’s characters are undeniably realistic. Although the novel could be argued to ‘fill its quota’ for misrepresented minorities (focusing mainly on a woman who suffers from an invisible disability and her lesbian housemate, who is on the receiving end of subtle homophobia), somehow the narrative is still both light and genuine. It illustrates the difficulties and differences between all members of society and reminds us of the still-prevalent prejudices that many people experience. The plot is well-structured, well-paced, and once I picked it up I could barely put it back down.
I particularly enjoyed the section of the novel where Polly and Ben attempt to get the bus into town for a simple errand, which beautifully depicts the inefficiency of today’s world for people with disabilities and the preconceptions of the general public. Similarly, the inclusion of modern-day homophobia highlights that we still have a long way to go towards an all-inclusive society. This section, and indeed the whole book, makes the reader stop and think about the way that we treat people that are different, and Jowitt manages to humanise her characters without patronising them.
Overall, the novel is a successful piece of ‘easy-reading’ fiction, that also manages to make us stop and think about how we treat people – not just those with disabilities, such as Polly, but anybody who makes mistakes in life, such as Ben. The author does not excuse Ben’s wrongdoings but suggests instead that people who have made mistakes are still capable of change – the novel promotes, above all, forgiveness. Clearly, I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and I couldn’t recommend it enough to others who are yet to read Jowitt’s work; I was captivated by A Spoke in the Wheel and can’t wait to read her next novel.
While the novel appears, at first glance, to be centred on Ben Goddard’s expulsion from the professional cycling world, the novel’s central plotline is gradually revealed to be the realities of living with a disability in modern-day Britain. Polly, Ben’s reluctant saviour after running away from his doping past, is a beautiful character. Suffering from some un-named, and often un-seen, disability, she is at first shown to be an unlikable and opinionated character. When their paths first cross, Polly and Ben are the least likely housemates – the wheelchair-bound cycling fan, and the disgraced ex-doper. However, as circumstances force them together, and Ben begins to see the world through Polly’s eyes, both characters learn that there is more to people than first appearances – whether they are in a wheelchair, or on a bike.
The narrative of the novel is completely immersive and each of Jowitt’s characters are undeniably realistic. Although the novel could be argued to ‘fill its quota’ for misrepresented minorities (focusing mainly on a woman who suffers from an invisible disability and her lesbian housemate, who is on the receiving end of subtle homophobia), somehow the narrative is still both light and genuine. It illustrates the difficulties and differences between all members of society and reminds us of the still-prevalent prejudices that many people experience. The plot is well-structured, well-paced, and once I picked it up I could barely put it back down.
I particularly enjoyed the section of the novel where Polly and Ben attempt to get the bus into town for a simple errand, which beautifully depicts the inefficiency of today’s world for people with disabilities and the preconceptions of the general public. Similarly, the inclusion of modern-day homophobia highlights that we still have a long way to go towards an all-inclusive society. This section, and indeed the whole book, makes the reader stop and think about the way that we treat people that are different, and Jowitt manages to humanise her characters without patronising them.
Overall, the novel is a successful piece of ‘easy-reading’ fiction, that also manages to make us stop and think about how we treat people – not just those with disabilities, such as Polly, but anybody who makes mistakes in life, such as Ben. The author does not excuse Ben’s wrongdoings but suggests instead that people who have made mistakes are still capable of change – the novel promotes, above all, forgiveness. Clearly, I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and I couldn’t recommend it enough to others who are yet to read Jowitt’s work; I was captivated by A Spoke in the Wheel and can’t wait to read her next novel.
October 29, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
A Spoke in the Wheel is a love story, but it is also, and perhaps primarily, a story about learning to forgive and like yourself.
Kathleen Jowitt manages to explore issues of prejudice (our own and other people’s), assumptions we make about others on sight and shame (our own and that society aims at us), all in a way that gently educates without being preachy or losing sight of the story.
Ben is an incredibly endearing main character as he is quick to hold up his hands and accept responsibility for his faults and mistakes and willing to learn from them and try to ‘get better’. Polly appears more prickly and unreasonable at first, but the reader and Ben soon come to understand that living with chronic illness can deeply affect your perspective on life and the mask you portray to the world.
It was not specified what Ben’s childhood disability was, or which particular chronic illness Polly suffers from (probably because it doesn’t really matter and Polly would say it’s none of our business anyway!). As a reader who suffers from ME/CFS I recognised much of what she was going through and empathised greatly. I felt the depiction of chronic illness and the stigma that goes with it was realistic and sensitive, whilst avoiding the dreariness that could have resulted from such honesty.
Mainly though, regardless of drug abuse, sexual orientation or invisible illness, this story focuses on understanding, acceptance, and learning to live with oneself, and those are lessons that are universally applicable.
If I hadn’t caught her eye. If she hadn’t been a cycling fan. If I hadn’t gone on autopilot and behaved as if I was doing some charity event for disabled kids.
I used to do a lot of that, having been a disabled kid myself once. There are still pictures floating around: seven year old Ben Goddard, with brave gap-toothed grin and gleaming wheelchair, next to Ben now – or, at least, Ben last month.
And the girl in the wheelchair in the café in this run-down seaside town was impressed by none of it. She met my eye, wearing a cold, blank expression that I supposed I’d have to get used to, exchanged a glance with her friend, and then looked down at a magazine on the table. I was pretty sure that it was Cycling Monthly, which was unfortunate if I was right. There was a five-page feature on great British hopes, and I was great British hope number seven.
Well, not any more, I wasn’t.
– Kathleen Jowitt, A Spoke in the Wheel
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
A Spoke in the Wheel is a love story, but it is also, and perhaps primarily, a story about learning to forgive and like yourself.
Kathleen Jowitt manages to explore issues of prejudice (our own and other people’s), assumptions we make about others on sight and shame (our own and that society aims at us), all in a way that gently educates without being preachy or losing sight of the story.
Ben is an incredibly endearing main character as he is quick to hold up his hands and accept responsibility for his faults and mistakes and willing to learn from them and try to ‘get better’. Polly appears more prickly and unreasonable at first, but the reader and Ben soon come to understand that living with chronic illness can deeply affect your perspective on life and the mask you portray to the world.
It was not specified what Ben’s childhood disability was, or which particular chronic illness Polly suffers from (probably because it doesn’t really matter and Polly would say it’s none of our business anyway!). As a reader who suffers from ME/CFS I recognised much of what she was going through and empathised greatly. I felt the depiction of chronic illness and the stigma that goes with it was realistic and sensitive, whilst avoiding the dreariness that could have resulted from such honesty.
Mainly though, regardless of drug abuse, sexual orientation or invisible illness, this story focuses on understanding, acceptance, and learning to live with oneself, and those are lessons that are universally applicable.
If I hadn’t caught her eye. If she hadn’t been a cycling fan. If I hadn’t gone on autopilot and behaved as if I was doing some charity event for disabled kids.
I used to do a lot of that, having been a disabled kid myself once. There are still pictures floating around: seven year old Ben Goddard, with brave gap-toothed grin and gleaming wheelchair, next to Ben now – or, at least, Ben last month.
And the girl in the wheelchair in the café in this run-down seaside town was impressed by none of it. She met my eye, wearing a cold, blank expression that I supposed I’d have to get used to, exchanged a glance with her friend, and then looked down at a magazine on the table. I was pretty sure that it was Cycling Monthly, which was unfortunate if I was right. There was a five-page feature on great British hopes, and I was great British hope number seven.
Well, not any more, I wasn’t.
– Kathleen Jowitt, A Spoke in the Wheel
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
May 9, 2018
I must admit that what drew me to this book in the first place was the cycling element. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a fan of watching cycling and I certainly never do any, but I find it an interesting sport when fictionalised. In fact, there isn't that much actual cycling going on in this book, but it's an excellent read about redemption and friendship.
Ben Goddard is an ex-cyclist but he took performance enhancing drugs and got thrown out of his team and the sport. He could go back in a year but he doesn't really want to. He makes a new start in a new town where he thinks he won't be recognised but pretty much straightaway two women, Vicki and Polly, do recognise him. They're best friends and live together. Polly is in a wheelchair after a serious illness, she's quite prickly and Ben has a hard job trying to cope with her disapproval as he becomes friends with the two women.
I liked Ben immensely. The book is told in the first person by him and it worked really well. I liked his self-deprecating personality and the way he just got on with his life after his disgrace instead of wallowing in self-pity. In fact, I liked all the major characters in this book. I think they would all be great friends to have.
I thought it was a really lovely story with a warm tone to the writing. I found myself caring about what happened to Ben, Polly and co and I have to say that I couldn't have wished for a better conclusion. It's more of a slice of life story than one with a beginning and an end and I felt rather lucky to have witnessed these particular slices of life with them all. All in all, a really enjoyable and heart-warming read.
Ben Goddard is an ex-cyclist but he took performance enhancing drugs and got thrown out of his team and the sport. He could go back in a year but he doesn't really want to. He makes a new start in a new town where he thinks he won't be recognised but pretty much straightaway two women, Vicki and Polly, do recognise him. They're best friends and live together. Polly is in a wheelchair after a serious illness, she's quite prickly and Ben has a hard job trying to cope with her disapproval as he becomes friends with the two women.
I liked Ben immensely. The book is told in the first person by him and it worked really well. I liked his self-deprecating personality and the way he just got on with his life after his disgrace instead of wallowing in self-pity. In fact, I liked all the major characters in this book. I think they would all be great friends to have.
I thought it was a really lovely story with a warm tone to the writing. I found myself caring about what happened to Ben, Polly and co and I have to say that I couldn't have wished for a better conclusion. It's more of a slice of life story than one with a beginning and an end and I felt rather lucky to have witnessed these particular slices of life with them all. All in all, a really enjoyable and heart-warming read.
January 28, 2019
A Spoke In the Wheel is a wonderful tale of second chances. Jowitt leads us through the aftermath of a famous fictional cyclist’s downfall by using drugs to win. It chronicles Ben Goddard’s life as he rebuilds new friendships with an unlikely duo, finds a home, and eventually finds love. Ben works two jobs, doesn’t ride a bicycle anymore, he’s just trying to make ends meet and stay unrecognizable. Vicki is also a driven cyclist who relates to Ben’s love of the sport, and almost a lawyer. Polly is a fan of cycling; she deals with being called a “fraud” like Ben, because though she can walk, she is able to do more with the use of a wheelchair. This book is very handi-cap friendly. It’s about learning to accept yourself and remaking life into something better. Bicycle enthusiasts will enjoy the references to famous sites and cycles. I can’t name them all, sorry. Romance lovers will enjoy the slow-build relationships. Maybe you see it coming, maybe you don’t. This author is from the UK and there is a lot of terminology that is not common for Americans, but most of it was easy to figure out from the context. Also, there is some French dialogue that was lovely. I would have liked a translation, looking that up took me out of the story. But overall, a good read with sweet romance and personal growth. I recommend it. 4.5 stars.
December 31, 2025
The central characters of this novel are Ben, Polly, and Vicki; Polly and Vicki are long-time friends who live together, but they need a third person to make their rent affordable. Ben, though famous, is a stranger to them; Polly starts with a rather negative opinion about him, while Vicki is more open and sympathetic. They decide to try it out, and the rest of the novel is about their evolving relationships.
Each of these three characters comes with their personal baggage. Ben is a disgraced professional cyclist who has left the sport because of a doping scandal. Polly and Vicki are both cycling fans, but Polly now suffers from a chronic illness and spends most of her days in a wheelchair. Vicki is a workaholic and carries her driven approach to life into her leisure time as well, including her cycling.
Faith is not as huge a part of this story as it is in Kathleen Jowitt’s other books; Polly is a Christian and has church friends, and this is mentioned in a very matter-of-fact way, as is Vicki’s sexual orientation and the fact that part-way through the book she begins a relationship with a girlfriend. The author doesn’t make a big deal of these things; they are simply part of the diversity of life. I found this refreshing.
I know next-to-nothing about the world of cycling, but this did not affect my enjoyment of the book. I learned a lot about disability, about wheelchair users and the challenges facing them, especially in a country where much of the infrastructure is old and wasn’t created with them in mind. I also appreciated the book’s awareness of what, from a Christian point of view, I would refer to as ‘the corporate nature of sin’. Yes, Ben has cheated, and has suffered the consequences, but the problem of doping in sport is bigger—much bigger—than the choices of one individual.
There’s a love story but it’s not intrusive and it doesn’t take over the book (although I could see it coming a long time before it arrived!).
Over the past month Kathleen Jowitt has become one of my favourite authors. So far I’ve read all three of her currently-published books; I really hope she’s working on another one!
Four stars out of five.
Each of these three characters comes with their personal baggage. Ben is a disgraced professional cyclist who has left the sport because of a doping scandal. Polly and Vicki are both cycling fans, but Polly now suffers from a chronic illness and spends most of her days in a wheelchair. Vicki is a workaholic and carries her driven approach to life into her leisure time as well, including her cycling.
Faith is not as huge a part of this story as it is in Kathleen Jowitt’s other books; Polly is a Christian and has church friends, and this is mentioned in a very matter-of-fact way, as is Vicki’s sexual orientation and the fact that part-way through the book she begins a relationship with a girlfriend. The author doesn’t make a big deal of these things; they are simply part of the diversity of life. I found this refreshing.
I know next-to-nothing about the world of cycling, but this did not affect my enjoyment of the book. I learned a lot about disability, about wheelchair users and the challenges facing them, especially in a country where much of the infrastructure is old and wasn’t created with them in mind. I also appreciated the book’s awareness of what, from a Christian point of view, I would refer to as ‘the corporate nature of sin’. Yes, Ben has cheated, and has suffered the consequences, but the problem of doping in sport is bigger—much bigger—than the choices of one individual.
There’s a love story but it’s not intrusive and it doesn’t take over the book (although I could see it coming a long time before it arrived!).
Over the past month Kathleen Jowitt has become one of my favourite authors. So far I’ve read all three of her currently-published books; I really hope she’s working on another one!
Four stars out of five.
August 31, 2018
Excellent
A story about excellently characterised people accidentally brought together - a disgraced cyclist, and two cycling fans, about having to use a wheelchair, putting your life back together, about friendship and love, and negotiating the idiocies of daily life. A really enjoyable read.
A story about excellently characterised people accidentally brought together - a disgraced cyclist, and two cycling fans, about having to use a wheelchair, putting your life back together, about friendship and love, and negotiating the idiocies of daily life. A really enjoyable read.
September 7, 2018
Dear Reader,
I want you to know that I really did try to like this book. I tried HARD. When an author requests that I read their book I get super excited! And this author is so nice and I want it to be known that this review is not a reflection of her, but that this book just wasn't for me. I do believe that Jowitt explores important matters such as disability, homosexuality, drug abuse, and ignorance, and I never felt like I was being lectured. However, maybe the British humor was lost on me. Perhaps it was because I know very little about cycling. No matter what it was I just could not get into this book. So much so that you will notice I could not find a quote that I enjoyed enough to use in my review. So, I am going to try to break down my thought process while reading this book.
The first thing you must know is that A Spoke in The Wheel is very character driven! Normally, that is the whole reason as to why I love a book, but these characters just didn’t do it for me. Maybe because of what I already said, maybe because I just found them so boring. Now don’t get me wrong there are some interesting things about them such as Ben a cyclist (now ex), who overcame his disability at a young age, but then did drugs and lost it all. Polly who was once an aspiring medical student, but after an accident she became disabled with a chronic illness, oh and she’s a big cycling fan who dislikes that Ben cheated in his racing. Then there is Vicky who cycles herself, who is either bisexual or pansexual (we never hear from Vicky to know for sure), and who is devoted to Polly but hates Polly’s boyfriend for some unknown reason.
And that’s it. That’s basically the story. At first, I thought that the book had the potential for some Three’s Company vibe and would be kind of quirky and yet deal with some serious issues, but it was like watching a TV show and waiting for the finale that never happens. All the characters have to deal with some big struggle that is thrown at them and yet they are barely ever affected by it. We get the dramatic “oh no this might upset my whole life” but by the next chapter or two it is all figured out in a neat little bow and it had me wondering why it was even in the story.
With that said I have so many leftover questions. For starters, at some point in the story, their house is broken in to and medicine and items are stolen, but we never find out who did it. Now I can understand that in many situations when a home is broken into people do not find out who did it, but in this case, I don’t know why someone would have stolen Polly’s medicine because it can’t get you high nor can you really sell it. Then there wasn’t anything large scale that was taken, so it would have had to be someone who they knew who broke it, but that isn’t at all what the characters focus on. NO instead the focus is that the Police don’t believe them that someone broke in because Ben used to do drugs for cycling. Like WHAT? Aren’t they even curious as to who broke into their house? How did they get in?
Okay, no let’s circle back to Polly’s boyfriend. It isn’t until practically the end of the story that we learn that he makes rude comments about Vicky’s sexuality and again this whole topic is skirted around! Polly forgives him at some point? Then they break up again? Who knows! I sure don’t. Then the real kicker is that we learn in the beginning that he is really religious. Okay, so that makes sense and would connect to the whole Vicky comment palooza. BUT THEN we learn that he is now an atheist for no reason other than the fact that we get one sentence stating that he is now. WHY? Because I really need to know! Why was it in the book if it doesn’t do anything for the plot? Or maybe it does, but I was just too confused and bored to pick up on it. If someone else reads this book please let me know if I just missed out on something.
Additionally, we meet Ben’s parents for some reason. Assumingly it is to create tension and drama between Ben and Polly (like it isn’t there already) or give us a Romeo and Juliet vibe because Ben’s parents think that Polly is just lazy and is just living off Ben and Vicky like a parasite. Now, again this could totally work for the plot EXCEPT Ben himself was disabled when he was young, and we are told how great his parents were with him and how they never gave up on him. Which seems like the exact opposite of how they are when we meet them with Polly. They have zero understand and don’t even ask about her illness, instead, they just make assumptions about her. To me, this just seems in direct contrast to what we learned. And then Ben doesn’t even stick up for her. He just tells us his feelings from inside his head. Which brings me to another point.
There is just so much exposition in this book! We are told what the characters are doing and how they are feeling but are shown very little. Maybe that is why even though Ben tells us exactly what he is feeling he still seemed like a robot the entire story. He feels so much guilt because of his using drugs, but he does very little to showcase the guilt or any of his emotions really. He sleeps with a woman and then that it that. A few chapters later he is “madly” in love with someone else. Again, this could indeed happen and yet I just don’t feel anything towards Ben and his supposed emotions. I saw the buildup for this relationship and yet I still don’t believe it. I’m not rooting for it or discouraging it, because there was little reason for me to even care about it.
Perhaps this whole book is lost on me. Maybe the saying about the British showing little emotion is true and this story has a lot more to it than I can grasp?
What I do know is that this tale just isn’t my cup of tea.
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