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The Golden Child
Beth Mahony is a stay-at-home mother of two daughters, Lucy and Charlotte. She’s also a blogger, whose alter ego, Lizzie, paints a picture of a busy, happy life. Originally from Australia, Beth and her family have lived in New Jersey for ten years. When an opportunity to relocate to Australia arises, the Mahonys decide to return to their native country. The move comes at the perfect Charlotte, the youngest daughter, has been accused of being the ringleader of a clique of girls whose dangerous initiation rites leave a child in hospital.
In Newcastle, Lucy and Charlotte attend a prestigious all-girls school, and Beth and her husband gradually settle into their new life. The almost immediately popular Charlotte is thrust back into the spotlight when she is blamed for bullying a classmate to the point of suicide. With Charlotte refusing to take the blame, the bullied child’s parents seeking retribution, and her husband and mother-in-law doubting Charlotte’s innocence, Beth is forced to examine her children's actions critically—at a heartbreaking cost.
The Golden Child tells the story of two families’ heartbreaking realization that there are no guarantees when it comes to parenting. The novel grapples with modern-day specters of selfies, selfishness, and cyber bullying to expose the complex anxieties of the female psyche.
In Newcastle, Lucy and Charlotte attend a prestigious all-girls school, and Beth and her husband gradually settle into their new life. The almost immediately popular Charlotte is thrust back into the spotlight when she is blamed for bullying a classmate to the point of suicide. With Charlotte refusing to take the blame, the bullied child’s parents seeking retribution, and her husband and mother-in-law doubting Charlotte’s innocence, Beth is forced to examine her children's actions critically—at a heartbreaking cost.
The Golden Child tells the story of two families’ heartbreaking realization that there are no guarantees when it comes to parenting. The novel grapples with modern-day specters of selfies, selfishness, and cyber bullying to expose the complex anxieties of the female psyche.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2017
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2247 people want to read
About the author
Wendy James
41 books185 followersWendy James is the celebrated author of eight novels, including the bestselling The Mistake and the compelling The Golden Child, which was shortlisted for the 2017 Ned Kelly Award for crime. Her debut novel, Out of the Silence, won the 2006 Ned Kelly Award for first crime novel, and was shortlisted for the Nita May Dobbie award for women's writing. Wendy works as an editor at the Australian Institute of Health Innovation and writes some of the sharpest and most topical domestic noir novels in the country.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
February 27, 2017
As I went through my usual routine of checking my social media accounts first thing in the morning, today I came across an all too familiar item in my news feed. A story posted through a relative in the UK, came to my attention. A 14 year old girl tragically took her own life after a secret battle against cyber-bullies. The teenager’s mother only found out about the torment her daughter was subjected to when messages were uncovered from the teenager girl’s phone. This article not only broke my heart but it was also timely, as I was about to write my review of Wendy James latest release, The Golden Child, a book that examines a case of cyber bullying. This hard-hitting, as well as highly topical novel, looks at the various sides of cyber bullying, from the perpetrator, to the victim and their respective families.
The Golden Child is essentially about two families, their experiences with a terrible act of cyber bullying and the fallout that ensues. The first family is the perpetrator’s family. Beth is a stay at home mum and blogger to two daughters, Lucy and Charlotte, raising them with her husband Dan. Originally from Australia, the Mahony family have made New Jersey in the US their home for ten years. An opportunity to move back to Australia soon arises and the family decide to make the big move back. The move seems to have come at the right time, as Charlotte, their youngest daughter, has got herself in a spot of bother. Charlotte has been accused of being the ringleader in a gang related dare gone wrong, resulting in the hospitalisation of a young girl. The Mahony’s are happy to make a fresh start back in Newcastle after the incident. When the Mahony girls start at a prestigious ladies college, another incident of bullying occurs, this time at a more tragic level. Again, Charlotte is thrust into the spotlight, with the blame falling directly on Beth’s talented and popular younger daughter. With Charlotte refusing to take the blame, the bullying victim’s parents seeking retribution and family members such as her husband and mother in law doubting Charlotte’s innocence, it all comes to a head. Beth is forced to examine her children’s actions critically – at a heartbreaking cost.
Any author who is willing to attack the very real and relevant issue of bullying, especially in the virtual world has my respect. Wendy James, an author I am familiar with, after reading two of her novels in the past, has taken on a mighty feat with her latest novel. James manages to provide the reader with a well rounded story of cyber bullying, through combining perspectives of the bully, the victim and the loved ones affected by the incident. The Golden Child is a book that draws our attention to the issues that are at the very epicentre of our modern society. These include teen suicide, the struggle to just feel ‘accepted’ in society and the power of social media in all its forms. Intertwined with these themes is a suburban noir style narrative, which makes The Golden Child comparable to other novels in this genre. The Golden Child reminded me of novels such as Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty and The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas. Both of these novels require the reader to weigh in on the moral quandaries at the heart of situation the characters in these novels face.
The Golden Child is structured in an original way that held my interest from beginning to the end. In addition to the general narrative centred around the two main families, the point of view shifts between mothers Beth and Andi and their two tween daughters, Charlotte and Sophie. James contrasts these perspectives well, offering the reader a fair representation of experiences. Interspersed within the storyline are intriguing blog posts from Beth’s blog DizzyLizzy.com and her follower’s responses. Also included are passages from THEGOLDENCHILD.COM, a website with a sinister ulterior motive that readers will assume links to Charlotte, the accused bully of the story. Excerpts from an app titled ASKfm, where the cyber bullying begins and a website titled www.Slowphie.com , which attacks one of the main characters Sophie, heightens the story further. When I reached the conclusion of The Golden Child, I felt in shock, not only by the events in the novel, but the character twist that I was quite oblivious too, which gave the narrative another important layer. Wendy James has certainly produced a clever and thought provoking narrative.
In summary, The Golden Child, by Wendy James, had me pondering on its issues long after reading, making it a highly affective novel. It had me considering what challenges lay ahead of me as a parent, as my children move into the tween and teen category in a few years time. Along with the mothers in this story Andi and Beth, I too may be forced to confront issues of cyber bullying, peer pressure and the like, which is a scary thought. A tough one, yet a highly important read.
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
I wish to thank Beauty & Lace for providing me with a copy of this novel for review purposes.
The Golden Child is essentially about two families, their experiences with a terrible act of cyber bullying and the fallout that ensues. The first family is the perpetrator’s family. Beth is a stay at home mum and blogger to two daughters, Lucy and Charlotte, raising them with her husband Dan. Originally from Australia, the Mahony family have made New Jersey in the US their home for ten years. An opportunity to move back to Australia soon arises and the family decide to make the big move back. The move seems to have come at the right time, as Charlotte, their youngest daughter, has got herself in a spot of bother. Charlotte has been accused of being the ringleader in a gang related dare gone wrong, resulting in the hospitalisation of a young girl. The Mahony’s are happy to make a fresh start back in Newcastle after the incident. When the Mahony girls start at a prestigious ladies college, another incident of bullying occurs, this time at a more tragic level. Again, Charlotte is thrust into the spotlight, with the blame falling directly on Beth’s talented and popular younger daughter. With Charlotte refusing to take the blame, the bullying victim’s parents seeking retribution and family members such as her husband and mother in law doubting Charlotte’s innocence, it all comes to a head. Beth is forced to examine her children’s actions critically – at a heartbreaking cost.
Any author who is willing to attack the very real and relevant issue of bullying, especially in the virtual world has my respect. Wendy James, an author I am familiar with, after reading two of her novels in the past, has taken on a mighty feat with her latest novel. James manages to provide the reader with a well rounded story of cyber bullying, through combining perspectives of the bully, the victim and the loved ones affected by the incident. The Golden Child is a book that draws our attention to the issues that are at the very epicentre of our modern society. These include teen suicide, the struggle to just feel ‘accepted’ in society and the power of social media in all its forms. Intertwined with these themes is a suburban noir style narrative, which makes The Golden Child comparable to other novels in this genre. The Golden Child reminded me of novels such as Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty and The Slap by Christos Tsiolkas. Both of these novels require the reader to weigh in on the moral quandaries at the heart of situation the characters in these novels face.
The Golden Child is structured in an original way that held my interest from beginning to the end. In addition to the general narrative centred around the two main families, the point of view shifts between mothers Beth and Andi and their two tween daughters, Charlotte and Sophie. James contrasts these perspectives well, offering the reader a fair representation of experiences. Interspersed within the storyline are intriguing blog posts from Beth’s blog DizzyLizzy.com and her follower’s responses. Also included are passages from THEGOLDENCHILD.COM, a website with a sinister ulterior motive that readers will assume links to Charlotte, the accused bully of the story. Excerpts from an app titled ASKfm, where the cyber bullying begins and a website titled www.Slowphie.com , which attacks one of the main characters Sophie, heightens the story further. When I reached the conclusion of The Golden Child, I felt in shock, not only by the events in the novel, but the character twist that I was quite oblivious too, which gave the narrative another important layer. Wendy James has certainly produced a clever and thought provoking narrative.
In summary, The Golden Child, by Wendy James, had me pondering on its issues long after reading, making it a highly affective novel. It had me considering what challenges lay ahead of me as a parent, as my children move into the tween and teen category in a few years time. Along with the mothers in this story Andi and Beth, I too may be forced to confront issues of cyber bullying, peer pressure and the like, which is a scary thought. A tough one, yet a highly important read.
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
I wish to thank Beauty & Lace for providing me with a copy of this novel for review purposes.
September 6, 2017
This book hits on the very real issue that is happing with the children of today, which is bullying and not just in the school yard, but also cyberbullying. Unfortunately we are hearing more and more about it and in this book Aussie author Wendy James has performed an amazing job of taking us on a journey of just how that affects not only the victim, but the whole family.
The Golden Child was an engrossing read from beginning to end. Even though this book is fiction, I think anyone who has a child should read this book. The primary question that comes from this book is: just how well do you know your child? A question all parents should be asking themselves, especially these days. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
The Golden Child was an engrossing read from beginning to end. Even though this book is fiction, I think anyone who has a child should read this book. The primary question that comes from this book is: just how well do you know your child? A question all parents should be asking themselves, especially these days. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have no hesitation in highly recommending it.
March 3, 2020
Right from the start, I was HOOKED! I honestly couldn’t stop listening. I kept setting the timer because it was getting late. I thought I would eventually drift off, but I actually stayed up until I finished it at 5:00am.
I find that sometimes an ending can really make or break a book and I thought the ending of this book was perfect!
A gripping and entertaining read about parenting, friendship, bullying, cybercrime and more! I’m really looking forward to reading more from this author.
February 7, 2017
When Dan Mahony informed his wife Beth that they would be returning home to Australia, she immediately thought they’d move to Sydney. But his clarification that the transfer would be to Newcastle, where both her mother-in-law AND her mother lived – well Beth was horrified to say the least! They had lived in New Jersey, USA for some time. Their girls, Lucy and Charlotte (Charlie) had grown up there, gone to school there – it was their home. Out of the two though, Charlie was the one who was most upset.
The family settled into their life in Newcastle and eventually moved into an old home on The Hill overlooking the ocean. Dan and Beth loved where the house was situated while Charlie of course hated everything – the old house, the lumpy mattress; she missed her friends. Lucy was her usual self, but did agree the house definitely needed renovating. Once the girls were installed in high school – year seven for Charlie – Beth returned to her online blogging. She didn’t have a big audience but enjoyed the interactions with people around the world.
Until it all came crashing down. Bullying in its most insidious form had harmed a classmate and the blame was pointed quite firmly at Beth’s beautiful child. Beth and Dan’s confusion and pain were intense, but of course the rumours were wrong – they had to be didn’t they? Beth and Dan were the parents – they knew their children. They’d brought them up to have the highest of ethics – to aim for only the best. They were kind and generous children – neither was the type of child to do what people were saying…
The Golden Child by Aussie author Wendy James is an intensely breathtaking journey into the world of teenagers and the harm that can come through seemingly innocent past-times; through the selfishness of said teens and the outcome of some “normal” teenage activities. Nowadays with social media in all its forms there’s always the possibility of cyber bullying, and horrifyingly, it happens too often. In The Golden Child there is also high school and being the leader of the gang, impressing peers. The combination of the two can and did create a havoc that Beth and Dan had no idea about. I thoroughly enjoyed The Golden Child, was completely absorbed in what was happening and couldn’t put it down! Most highly recommended.
With thanks to HarperCollinsPublishers AU and the author for my copy to read and review.
The family settled into their life in Newcastle and eventually moved into an old home on The Hill overlooking the ocean. Dan and Beth loved where the house was situated while Charlie of course hated everything – the old house, the lumpy mattress; she missed her friends. Lucy was her usual self, but did agree the house definitely needed renovating. Once the girls were installed in high school – year seven for Charlie – Beth returned to her online blogging. She didn’t have a big audience but enjoyed the interactions with people around the world.
Until it all came crashing down. Bullying in its most insidious form had harmed a classmate and the blame was pointed quite firmly at Beth’s beautiful child. Beth and Dan’s confusion and pain were intense, but of course the rumours were wrong – they had to be didn’t they? Beth and Dan were the parents – they knew their children. They’d brought them up to have the highest of ethics – to aim for only the best. They were kind and generous children – neither was the type of child to do what people were saying…
The Golden Child by Aussie author Wendy James is an intensely breathtaking journey into the world of teenagers and the harm that can come through seemingly innocent past-times; through the selfishness of said teens and the outcome of some “normal” teenage activities. Nowadays with social media in all its forms there’s always the possibility of cyber bullying, and horrifyingly, it happens too often. In The Golden Child there is also high school and being the leader of the gang, impressing peers. The combination of the two can and did create a havoc that Beth and Dan had no idea about. I thoroughly enjoyed The Golden Child, was completely absorbed in what was happening and couldn’t put it down! Most highly recommended.
With thanks to HarperCollinsPublishers AU and the author for my copy to read and review.
February 15, 2017
Oh My!! What a read!!!!!!
My View:
I had great difficulty reading this book. Let me explain; I love the cover, I love this author’s work, and liked the synopsis, I wanted to read this book. I started reading, I put the book down. I felt so much apprehension, so much dread, so evocative is the writing I could not go on - it was the fear of what I knew was coming – something really, really bad. I picked up the book again. I could not stop!
This book has probably the lowest level of violence in all the books I have read since I began reviewing, yet is it so powerful, the truth so malignant, so uncomfortable and confronting it will have you wondering if those are angina pains you are feeling, you are holding yourself so tense your muscles ache.
This narrative drives a nail into our psyche and scapes the scabs off all those hidden sores; the self-doubts about your parenting skills, guilt regarding paid work V being stay home mums, relationship guilt, do you love enough/do enough/could you try harder/do better/ be a better wife/mother and independent woman? Do you give enough attention to husband/child/ your other children? Do you play favourites? Do you know your own children? How could I not know? Is this my fault? It is my fault.
What a wonderful, confronting, pulse raising read!
My View:
I had great difficulty reading this book. Let me explain; I love the cover, I love this author’s work, and liked the synopsis, I wanted to read this book. I started reading, I put the book down. I felt so much apprehension, so much dread, so evocative is the writing I could not go on - it was the fear of what I knew was coming – something really, really bad. I picked up the book again. I could not stop!
This book has probably the lowest level of violence in all the books I have read since I began reviewing, yet is it so powerful, the truth so malignant, so uncomfortable and confronting it will have you wondering if those are angina pains you are feeling, you are holding yourself so tense your muscles ache.
This narrative drives a nail into our psyche and scapes the scabs off all those hidden sores; the self-doubts about your parenting skills, guilt regarding paid work V being stay home mums, relationship guilt, do you love enough/do enough/could you try harder/do better/ be a better wife/mother and independent woman? Do you give enough attention to husband/child/ your other children? Do you play favourites? Do you know your own children? How could I not know? Is this my fault? It is my fault.
What a wonderful, confronting, pulse raising read!
June 12, 2018
The Golden Child is a contemporary domestic thriller at its finest!
Wendy James, an Australian suspense, award-winning author, has created a tale that is as timely as it is chilling. With news of younger school shooters, children bullying one another online and in person and the suicide rate climbing in all industrialized nations, James has captured the essence of that drama and fear of every parent – “could my child do this?”
To the outside world and even to the blogging community, Beth and Dan appear to the be the perfect couple with two lovely, well-adjusted daughters who are bright, articulate, and very intelligent. What more could any family want or need? They have the usual dramas: moving across country, girls entering a new school, everyone adjusting to a different culture, but they are a close family that makes the most of these situations.
James also examines the flip side – the brilliant, gifted student and her family, who also appear to be “just a normal family,” but the girl does not have friends, is not fitting in at school and often is the target of unkind words. Bringing these two families together, a chance meeting in the park, turns out to be a catastrophe for all involved. But no tragedy is ever what it seems and as we, the reader, discover, there is far more to the story than we are first led to believe.
From the very first page until the very last, you will be mesmerized by the innermost thoughts of the two mothers involved. Interspersed throughout the book are snippets of Beth’s “mommy-blog” as well as clips from the social media that the girls were using. This addition made the story so readable, captivating and interesting! The only reason that I hesitated giving this a full five star rating was because I suspected from nearly the beginning what the “twist” would be in the end. Never-the-less, this is a fascinating look at our society of teenagers and their families in today’s media driven world. There is a lot of introspection on the part of all involved and I found it to be spot on. The Golden Child is a perfect domestic thriller and I highly recommend it to all who enjoy this genre.
Wendy James, an Australian suspense, award-winning author, has created a tale that is as timely as it is chilling. With news of younger school shooters, children bullying one another online and in person and the suicide rate climbing in all industrialized nations, James has captured the essence of that drama and fear of every parent – “could my child do this?”
To the outside world and even to the blogging community, Beth and Dan appear to the be the perfect couple with two lovely, well-adjusted daughters who are bright, articulate, and very intelligent. What more could any family want or need? They have the usual dramas: moving across country, girls entering a new school, everyone adjusting to a different culture, but they are a close family that makes the most of these situations.
James also examines the flip side – the brilliant, gifted student and her family, who also appear to be “just a normal family,” but the girl does not have friends, is not fitting in at school and often is the target of unkind words. Bringing these two families together, a chance meeting in the park, turns out to be a catastrophe for all involved. But no tragedy is ever what it seems and as we, the reader, discover, there is far more to the story than we are first led to believe.
From the very first page until the very last, you will be mesmerized by the innermost thoughts of the two mothers involved. Interspersed throughout the book are snippets of Beth’s “mommy-blog” as well as clips from the social media that the girls were using. This addition made the story so readable, captivating and interesting! The only reason that I hesitated giving this a full five star rating was because I suspected from nearly the beginning what the “twist” would be in the end. Never-the-less, this is a fascinating look at our society of teenagers and their families in today’s media driven world. There is a lot of introspection on the part of all involved and I found it to be spot on. The Golden Child is a perfect domestic thriller and I highly recommend it to all who enjoy this genre.
April 29, 2017
How well do we really know our children? Beth Mahoney seemingly has the perfect family, a loving husband and two lovely daughters, 15 y old Lucie, quiet and well behaved, doing well at school and 12y old Charlotte (Charlie to her friends and family), more outgoing and popular and also smart. Beth has enjoyed being a full time mother while they lived in the US and has a popular blog where she talks about everyday domestic situations. Her girls have never been any trouble. Charlie recently made a girl very ill by giving her an oleander leaf to eat but that was an accident (wasn't it?). Now they're moving back to Australia, to Newcastle where the girls can have a new start in new schools and Beth could look at getting a job.
This is a chilling tale of what children can do to each other, picking on a less popular child and using intimidation and cyber bullying to make her life hell. By setting this in an ordinary middle class family where the parents are loving and carefully monitor their children's behaviour, Wendy James has shown how easily children can be manipulated by social media without their parents knowledge. Whenever a bad case of cyberbullying is reported in the news media we automatically want to blame the parents and the school but could we have any better our children had been involved?
I really enjoyed the way the book was written with insights into Beth's blog as well the social media posts by the 'golden child'. Wendy James also did a great job getting into the psyches of teenage and tweenage girls and their relationships.
This is a chilling tale of what children can do to each other, picking on a less popular child and using intimidation and cyber bullying to make her life hell. By setting this in an ordinary middle class family where the parents are loving and carefully monitor their children's behaviour, Wendy James has shown how easily children can be manipulated by social media without their parents knowledge. Whenever a bad case of cyberbullying is reported in the news media we automatically want to blame the parents and the school but could we have any better our children had been involved?
I really enjoyed the way the book was written with insights into Beth's blog as well the social media posts by the 'golden child'. Wendy James also did a great job getting into the psyches of teenage and tweenage girls and their relationships.
October 14, 2017
This was a fast read that was mostly undertaken in my car on a trip home from 'way out west' literally in the NSW outback. This was a fast-paced read on a contemporary theme of bullying on social media. There was a twist I should have picked up way earlier than I did.
I always enjoy a setting that is local, and Newcastle is a great setting. Two siblings, a cocky popular girl, and her older sister, who is more reserved and thoughtful from her sometimes mean younger sister.
Relocating back to Sydney from over a decade in the United States, Lizzy and her family come back home. Written party in the form of blog entries, this really does set the tone for a story that is all about Instagram and who's asking who what on askFM.
Can cool and hip mums raise little devils? Or are those little devils bound to be regardless?
Another story rounded down from 4 to 3 stars, I did not love this one as much as my friends did this time around.
Thanks to Carol from https://readingwritingandriesling.wor... for her generous hard copy. I saw this book in a bookshop in Canberra and said out loud 'I really want to win this one' thinking it might pop up as a GR giveaway, but that same day I found the blog giveaway. Lucky me!
I always enjoy a setting that is local, and Newcastle is a great setting. Two siblings, a cocky popular girl, and her older sister, who is more reserved and thoughtful from her sometimes mean younger sister.
Relocating back to Sydney from over a decade in the United States, Lizzy and her family come back home. Written party in the form of blog entries, this really does set the tone for a story that is all about Instagram and who's asking who what on askFM.
Can cool and hip mums raise little devils? Or are those little devils bound to be regardless?
Another story rounded down from 4 to 3 stars, I did not love this one as much as my friends did this time around.
Thanks to Carol from https://readingwritingandriesling.wor... for her generous hard copy. I saw this book in a bookshop in Canberra and said out loud 'I really want to win this one' thinking it might pop up as a GR giveaway, but that same day I found the blog giveaway. Lucky me!
April 12, 2017
Three and a half stars
It’s been several days since I finished reading this book and I have been thinking about my response to it. The story concerns two families, Beth and Andi are friends. Charlotte, one of Beth’s two daughters is thrown into a parent induced pseudo friendship with Andi’s musically gifted but socially unpopular daughter Sophie. There is teasing and cruelty in the private girls’ school. But then events spiral beyond anyone’s control. More than friendships are destroyed. This is a somewhat compelling, if uncomfortable, book that deserves to be read for the issues of cyber bullying and use of social media it raises.
The story is told from four points of view. Andi, Beth, Charlotte, and Sophie. The characters are well drawn if not all likeable. Interspersed with these are Beth’s alter ego blog DizzyLizzy.com and www.goldenchild.com, and a couple of others that appears called ask.fm/sophiepen and www.slowpie.com. The language, and vitriol in some of these is appalling. That’s not to say I believe it doesn’t exist. Having seen and heard of some social media sites, it is only too apparent that it does. It presents a sad picture of social media society, as people hide behind anonymity to ridicule and torture others. One reason I rarely go near social media except for Goodreads.
So while I didn't always enjoy it, it is readable. This is a book that deserves to be read. But I did have issues with the way the school and parents deal with events, as well as the sentence ‘can bad children happen to good mothers?’ This question adorns the cover. Not sure this is the case or that it is needed. The supposed twist was not an issue but other aspects of the ending were for me. Having said that, if this book can help parents teach their children about some of the issues raised with the use of mobile phones and social media and the dangers they present, then that will be a good outcome.
It’s been several days since I finished reading this book and I have been thinking about my response to it. The story concerns two families, Beth and Andi are friends. Charlotte, one of Beth’s two daughters is thrown into a parent induced pseudo friendship with Andi’s musically gifted but socially unpopular daughter Sophie. There is teasing and cruelty in the private girls’ school. But then events spiral beyond anyone’s control. More than friendships are destroyed. This is a somewhat compelling, if uncomfortable, book that deserves to be read for the issues of cyber bullying and use of social media it raises.
The story is told from four points of view. Andi, Beth, Charlotte, and Sophie. The characters are well drawn if not all likeable. Interspersed with these are Beth’s alter ego blog DizzyLizzy.com and www.goldenchild.com, and a couple of others that appears called ask.fm/sophiepen and www.slowpie.com. The language, and vitriol in some of these is appalling. That’s not to say I believe it doesn’t exist. Having seen and heard of some social media sites, it is only too apparent that it does. It presents a sad picture of social media society, as people hide behind anonymity to ridicule and torture others. One reason I rarely go near social media except for Goodreads.
So while I didn't always enjoy it, it is readable. This is a book that deserves to be read. But I did have issues with the way the school and parents deal with events, as well as the sentence ‘can bad children happen to good mothers?’ This question adorns the cover. Not sure this is the case or that it is needed. The supposed twist was not an issue but other aspects of the ending were for me. Having said that, if this book can help parents teach their children about some of the issues raised with the use of mobile phones and social media and the dangers they present, then that will be a good outcome.
February 19, 2017
Gosh what a great book, I started today at 50% read and just finished it tonight, couldn't put it down. Such a topical and somewhat sad reflection on life today. A story that had so many elements to it - social media, bullying, working mothers, sibling rivalry, jealousy, suicide, loneliness, I could go on and on.
Hard to reveal too much without spoilers but it involves two girls at school and bullying. I would like to say that this book should be read by every teenager and parent of a school age child and is an excellent example of today's youth and how social media has such a big effect on life today. First time I have read anything by this author - I am most impressed
Hard to reveal too much without spoilers but it involves two girls at school and bullying. I would like to say that this book should be read by every teenager and parent of a school age child and is an excellent example of today's youth and how social media has such a big effect on life today. First time I have read anything by this author - I am most impressed
October 27, 2016
This book is utterly brilliant. I just don't even know where to start with a review - it was compelling, it was tragic, it was clever, it was frightening, it was heartbreaking, it was shocking and it gave me shivers and it made me question myself as a parent.
I freaking loved it.
I freaking loved it.
October 4, 2018
Beth Mahony is a stay-at-home mother of two daughters, Lucy and Charlotte. She's also a blogger, whose alter ego, Lizzie, paints a picture of a busy, happy life. Originally from Australia, Beth and her family have lived in New Jersey for ten years. When an opportunity to relocate to Australia arises, the Mahonys decide to return to their native country. The move comes at the perfect time: Charlotte, the youngest daughter, has been accused of being the ringleader of a clique of girls whose dangerous initiation rites leave a child in hospital.
But then things happen again in Australia that points again to Charlotte. 2 families that get a long and make friendships. 1 of the children is a bully and 1 ends up in the hospital. I would have given this a 4 but the ending kind of sucked for me. Yes there was a twist but really parents? Is this how you deal with your children?
I received this ARC from Edelweiss and Skyhorse Publishing for an honest review.
But then things happen again in Australia that points again to Charlotte. 2 families that get a long and make friendships. 1 of the children is a bully and 1 ends up in the hospital. I would have given this a 4 but the ending kind of sucked for me. Yes there was a twist but really parents? Is this how you deal with your children?
I received this ARC from Edelweiss and Skyhorse Publishing for an honest review.
August 31, 2018
I’m giving this book 2 stars because although it was very well written and rather hard to put down, the overall narrative was incredibly irresponsible and also a little undercooked.
Having the story told from the victim, the bully, the victim’s mum and the bully’s mum was very clever and interesting, but I think it all came undone towards the second half of the book. I was so disappointed by this, because it could have been done so well.
The worst part of the whole novel is Sophie’s miraculous recovery (not just physically, but mentally). This girl is bullied so disgustingly that she tries to end her life. After weeks in a coma, she wakes up and everything is fine. So fine in fact, she wants a birthday party and is happy to invite the girls who made her want to die a few weeks prior? Um, sorry, no.
Honestly, we shouldn’t put the idea into young people’s heads (or anyone of any age for that matter) that if you’re lonely, have no friends, no one talks to you and no one invites you to parties... then you should try and botch a suicide. Everyone will come to your party then! Everyone will want to talk to you after that! Everyone’s so happy you exist now! Everyone likes you and hates the pretty, popular girl now! This is just a disgustingly irresponsible narrative - suicide is not glamorous.
Let’s just say that the child who tries to kill themselves fails at their attempt, like Sophie... in reality, if their fellow school mates found out about it, it is more likely, and unfortunate, that the child would become even more ostracised, and not the new, shiny, popular thing as this book portrays. The more realistic outcome would be death - a finality - and should not be romanticised like this novel seems to do.
Another part of the story which ruined it for me was the fact that Beth was somehow surprised by Charlotte’s behaviour. Really?! The child acts entitled, obnoxious and rude to her parents and grandparents throughout the whole novel, if not slightly sociopathic. I’m assuming one of the goals of this book is to make the reader think that you can never really know someone, even your child. But Charlotte is clearly a malicious little asshole, and Beth would have to be naive beyond comprehension to not think Charlotte would treat everyone else the same, horrible way. Even though she actually turns out to be the ‘good child’ and is being framed by her sister who is ACTUALLY a sociopath... they’re both just little assholes. And Beth is surprised... how? The story would have been far more effective if Charlotte was charismatic, easy going and understood what it meant when her parents said ‘no’. Yes, Lucy seems to be cool, calm and collected and we are never supposed to suspect Lucy of any wrongdoings... but this doesn’t detract from the fact Charlotte is a malicious little girl too.
And the ending...? Why on earth would parents abandon their 12 year old girl who they believe is sociopathic and needs help?
It’s all a bit much, and the ending feels so rushed. Sophie’s ending is way too happy and fluffy - ironic considering it ends with a party of literal fairy floss and a unicorn theme. Where were the repercussions of being so depressed she wanted to end it all... to nearly dying... to her and her family’s lives nearly being destroyed? It’s completely brushed under the rug. I felt like the author wanted to get right to the twist, which didn’t really add any value to the story, and ended up leaving the actual victim’s story unfinished and unrealistic.
Disappointing read.
Having the story told from the victim, the bully, the victim’s mum and the bully’s mum was very clever and interesting, but I think it all came undone towards the second half of the book. I was so disappointed by this, because it could have been done so well.
The worst part of the whole novel is Sophie’s miraculous recovery (not just physically, but mentally). This girl is bullied so disgustingly that she tries to end her life. After weeks in a coma, she wakes up and everything is fine. So fine in fact, she wants a birthday party and is happy to invite the girls who made her want to die a few weeks prior? Um, sorry, no.
Honestly, we shouldn’t put the idea into young people’s heads (or anyone of any age for that matter) that if you’re lonely, have no friends, no one talks to you and no one invites you to parties... then you should try and botch a suicide. Everyone will come to your party then! Everyone will want to talk to you after that! Everyone’s so happy you exist now! Everyone likes you and hates the pretty, popular girl now! This is just a disgustingly irresponsible narrative - suicide is not glamorous.
Let’s just say that the child who tries to kill themselves fails at their attempt, like Sophie... in reality, if their fellow school mates found out about it, it is more likely, and unfortunate, that the child would become even more ostracised, and not the new, shiny, popular thing as this book portrays. The more realistic outcome would be death - a finality - and should not be romanticised like this novel seems to do.
Another part of the story which ruined it for me was the fact that Beth was somehow surprised by Charlotte’s behaviour. Really?! The child acts entitled, obnoxious and rude to her parents and grandparents throughout the whole novel, if not slightly sociopathic. I’m assuming one of the goals of this book is to make the reader think that you can never really know someone, even your child. But Charlotte is clearly a malicious little asshole, and Beth would have to be naive beyond comprehension to not think Charlotte would treat everyone else the same, horrible way. Even though she actually turns out to be the ‘good child’ and is being framed by her sister who is ACTUALLY a sociopath... they’re both just little assholes. And Beth is surprised... how? The story would have been far more effective if Charlotte was charismatic, easy going and understood what it meant when her parents said ‘no’. Yes, Lucy seems to be cool, calm and collected and we are never supposed to suspect Lucy of any wrongdoings... but this doesn’t detract from the fact Charlotte is a malicious little girl too.
And the ending...? Why on earth would parents abandon their 12 year old girl who they believe is sociopathic and needs help?
It’s all a bit much, and the ending feels so rushed. Sophie’s ending is way too happy and fluffy - ironic considering it ends with a party of literal fairy floss and a unicorn theme. Where were the repercussions of being so depressed she wanted to end it all... to nearly dying... to her and her family’s lives nearly being destroyed? It’s completely brushed under the rug. I felt like the author wanted to get right to the twist, which didn’t really add any value to the story, and ended up leaving the actual victim’s story unfinished and unrealistic.
Disappointing read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2019
1.5 STARS
What would you do if your tween daughter was accused of poisoning a classmate?
What would you do if a few months later, she’s accused of bullying another classmate so badly the girl attempts suicide?
Beth faces these questions about her youngest daughter Charlie/Charlotte. Beth answers those questions with denial and excuses, thankful older daughter Lucy is a kind, easy child.
When stories like THE GOLDEN CHILD have great premises and poor executions, I feel disappointed. Wendy Heard plotted a an engaging story, told from multiple third person points of views. Unfortunately her flat writing was all tell and little show. THE GOLDEN CHILD lacks emotion and tension. I figured out the twist early into the book.
None of the characters are particularly likable and none had much personality. I couldn’t even muster enough emotion to feel empathy for Sophie, though she certainly did not deserve to be bullied.
I rounded up to two stars because I cared enough to finish THE GOLDEN CHILD.
What would you do if your tween daughter was accused of poisoning a classmate?
What would you do if a few months later, she’s accused of bullying another classmate so badly the girl attempts suicide?
Beth faces these questions about her youngest daughter Charlie/Charlotte. Beth answers those questions with denial and excuses, thankful older daughter Lucy is a kind, easy child.
When stories like THE GOLDEN CHILD have great premises and poor executions, I feel disappointed. Wendy Heard plotted a an engaging story, told from multiple third person points of views. Unfortunately her flat writing was all tell and little show. THE GOLDEN CHILD lacks emotion and tension. I figured out the twist early into the book.
None of the characters are particularly likable and none had much personality. I couldn’t even muster enough emotion to feel empathy for Sophie, though she certainly did not deserve to be bullied.
I rounded up to two stars because I cared enough to finish THE GOLDEN CHILD.
August 9, 2022
Audio - 4.5 Stars
Story - 4.25 Stars
Story - 4.25 Stars
February 19, 2017
Loved this gripping read for sure - set in a town I am familiar with as well made me feel even more connected to the characters! With cyber bullying as the crux to this book, and yes, I had already guessed the twist at the end quite early on in the book, I can tell you this is a fantastic, page turning read. I was tossing up whether to give the book 4 or 5 stars purely because I will next give this book to my mother in her 70's who has no idea what blogs and such are and after giving her a similarly styled book that references blogs and emails and up to date computer trends recently (the book was called Daisy in Chains) my Mum gave up on it because the changing styles was a bit confusing for her, so although I loved this book I am reluctant to put her through that frustration again. But I ended up rating this book on how much I enjoyed it and will sit Mum down and try to explain how the modern world of computers works!
February 15, 2017
*SPOILERS*
Fairly bland writing trying to write from all points of view. Due to this we never get to connect properly with any of the characters very deeply. Especially Sophie.
The ending....... (spoilers)
I saw the twist early but oh my goodness as if parents would abandon a 'bad' child in Australia and take the 'good' one to Chicago!! Oh please!
Fairly bland writing trying to write from all points of view. Due to this we never get to connect properly with any of the characters very deeply. Especially Sophie.
The ending....... (spoilers)
I saw the twist early but oh my goodness as if parents would abandon a 'bad' child in Australia and take the 'good' one to Chicago!! Oh please!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2020
Poznajcie rodzinę Mahoneyów - Beth, Dana i ich dwie córki, które dopiero wkraczają w nastoletni wiek. Cała ekipa powraca do rodzinnej Australii po kilkunastu latach spędzonych w USA. Wiadomo, początki są ciężkie, wydaje się jednak, że dziewczynki szybko zaaklimatyzowały się w nowej szkole, ojciec poświęcił pracy, a matka pisaniu bloga i poszukiwaniu nowego zajęcia. Wszystko byłoby wspaniale, gdyby nie to, że nie jest.
Pojawia się motyw prześladowania i walki o władzę w szkolnym światku. Tematyka jest dość ciężka - okrucieństwo dzieci wobec rówieśników, jednak dzięki przerywnikom w postaci wpisów na bloga i komentarzy z mediów społecznościowych, powieść czyta się lekko i przyjemnie. Fabuła jest przerażająca głównie ze względu na realizm opisywanych sytuacji i zagrożeń, jakie czyhają w dzisiejszych czasach na nasze pociechy. Naprawdę ciężko czytało mi się o niesprawiedliwości, jaka spotykała bohaterkę, do której od samego początku poczułam sympatię.
Nie będę zdradzać nic na temat zakończenia, napiszę tylko, że autorce udało się mnie zaskoczyć. Takie finały to ja szanuję!
Zdecydowanie powinniście zwrócić uwagę na tę książkę, jeśli lubicie dramaty obyczajowe z dobrym twistem. Obawiam się, że "W sieci zła" może umknąć czytelnikom w zalewie lutowych premier, a szkoda by było - to naprawdę kawał dobrej literatury.
Pojawia się motyw prześladowania i walki o władzę w szkolnym światku. Tematyka jest dość ciężka - okrucieństwo dzieci wobec rówieśników, jednak dzięki przerywnikom w postaci wpisów na bloga i komentarzy z mediów społecznościowych, powieść czyta się lekko i przyjemnie. Fabuła jest przerażająca głównie ze względu na realizm opisywanych sytuacji i zagrożeń, jakie czyhają w dzisiejszych czasach na nasze pociechy. Naprawdę ciężko czytało mi się o niesprawiedliwości, jaka spotykała bohaterkę, do której od samego początku poczułam sympatię.
Nie będę zdradzać nic na temat zakończenia, napiszę tylko, że autorce udało się mnie zaskoczyć. Takie finały to ja szanuję!
Zdecydowanie powinniście zwrócić uwagę na tę książkę, jeśli lubicie dramaty obyczajowe z dobrym twistem. Obawiam się, że "W sieci zła" może umknąć czytelnikom w zalewie lutowych premier, a szkoda by było - to naprawdę kawał dobrej literatury.
February 21, 2017
Oh my goodness! Is it too early in the year to call my top book of 2017? WOW! Amazing story - was glued to book all weekend.
February 10, 2017
2.5 stars
The writing was very bland and the characters somewhat annoying but the plot was intriguing and the topic of cyber-bullying was well dealt with
The writing was very bland and the characters somewhat annoying but the plot was intriguing and the topic of cyber-bullying was well dealt with
January 23, 2019
The Golden Child is the fifth book by Australian author, Wendy James. This contemporary novel got my attention a long time a go with it's eye catching cover of lollipops so I took the chance to snap it up when I came across it in a charity shop. Dealing with themes of bullying and social media in Australia , this is a relevant read for parents and those who work with children across the world. Told in the third person, James presents four points of view; Beth (the mother of Charlotte), Andi (the mother of Sophie) as well as Charlotte and Sophie themselves, both teenage girls. She also alternates the chapters with blogs written by Dizzylizzy, the pseudonym for Beth, and The Golden Child, an unknown pseudonym. This reader believed they knew who the pseudonym was for and was delighted to be proved wrong. The Golden Child's Blog is interesting as it is ten lessons for success that are disturbingly dark for a kid. In a nutshell, the story line is that Charlotte is accused of bullying Sophie in and out of school, both physically and through social media. The intensity leads to Sophie considering taking her own life, irrevocably changing both families forever.
Beth is a mother to her two daughters, Charlotte and Lucy, and wife to Don. Australian citizens, Beth and Don have spent the last ten years in the U.S and have decided that it's time to come back home. This time they settle in Newcastle, a location which the girls are not happy about. With no green card, Beth was unable to work in the U.S, writing a blog about her life a an outlet. Her blog was both funny and honest, yet a little too polished, as she wrote about family life. At least Beth was honest with herself in this regard. Now blogging is not enough and Beth wants to return to the work force, a change that I championed for and Don is resistant to. Using his daughters as the reason made me quite frustrated and I felt for Beth. When Charlotte is accused of bullying Sophie, I found myself, surprisingly, siding with Don, and not Beth, on this issue. Beth only sees the best in her children and wants to protect them at all costs while Don can see the truth despite his love for his girls. Don opens Beth's eyes to the situation and makes her see behind the smoke and mirrors.
Andi is a mum to Sophie, baby Gus and a wife to Steve. Andi is the opposite to Beth as she knows that her daughter is not perfect. She has known that Sophie is an odd, unusual child from a young age. Andi also knows that she hasn't been the best mother to her teenage daughter since the birth of Gus and is constantly trying to make up for her mistakes in the past. I appreciated that Andi knows her her faults as a other and doesn't try to pretend that those things never happened. However, while Beth goes to the ends of the earth for her children, Andi believes that things will sort themselves out in life. When she discovers that Sophie has tried to take her own life, Andi is shocked to the core. While I imagine that Beth would want revenge it is Steve, and not Andi, who takes this line of approach. Andi's approach is passive as she all she cares for is the health of Sophie but she willingly follows her husband and all his ensuing suggestions.
Charlotte and Sophie are chalk and cheese. Everyone knows a Charlotte; she is blonde haired, beautiful and popular. She has confidence in spades and is often the ring leader who others willingly follow. Charlotte hides her emotions, making her appear calculated and unemotional. All this works against Charlotte and this reader disliked Charlotte with her air of entitlement. Sophie, on the other hand, is ordinary looking. She is the girl that other children shy away from or bully because they sense that she is different. As a result, Charlotte is lonely and often comes across as desperate. She is constantly looking for opportunities to make friends so I felt sorry for her, more so when the opportunities didn't work out. Sophie's salvation is her musical ability but her innocence and trusting nature gets her in trouble when she tries to befriend Charlotte. Both girls take selfies of various body parts and it is not difficult to see what will happen to Sophie's photos in cyber space. The consequences are typical for society and and are far reaching.
The Golden Child is a thought provoking, relevant read for fans of Jodi Picoult and Liane Moriarty with a twist that makes you question everything you thought you knew.
#AWWC3#
Beth is a mother to her two daughters, Charlotte and Lucy, and wife to Don. Australian citizens, Beth and Don have spent the last ten years in the U.S and have decided that it's time to come back home. This time they settle in Newcastle, a location which the girls are not happy about. With no green card, Beth was unable to work in the U.S, writing a blog about her life a an outlet. Her blog was both funny and honest, yet a little too polished, as she wrote about family life. At least Beth was honest with herself in this regard. Now blogging is not enough and Beth wants to return to the work force, a change that I championed for and Don is resistant to. Using his daughters as the reason made me quite frustrated and I felt for Beth. When Charlotte is accused of bullying Sophie, I found myself, surprisingly, siding with Don, and not Beth, on this issue. Beth only sees the best in her children and wants to protect them at all costs while Don can see the truth despite his love for his girls. Don opens Beth's eyes to the situation and makes her see behind the smoke and mirrors.
Andi is a mum to Sophie, baby Gus and a wife to Steve. Andi is the opposite to Beth as she knows that her daughter is not perfect. She has known that Sophie is an odd, unusual child from a young age. Andi also knows that she hasn't been the best mother to her teenage daughter since the birth of Gus and is constantly trying to make up for her mistakes in the past. I appreciated that Andi knows her her faults as a other and doesn't try to pretend that those things never happened. However, while Beth goes to the ends of the earth for her children, Andi believes that things will sort themselves out in life. When she discovers that Sophie has tried to take her own life, Andi is shocked to the core. While I imagine that Beth would want revenge it is Steve, and not Andi, who takes this line of approach. Andi's approach is passive as she all she cares for is the health of Sophie but she willingly follows her husband and all his ensuing suggestions.
Charlotte and Sophie are chalk and cheese. Everyone knows a Charlotte; she is blonde haired, beautiful and popular. She has confidence in spades and is often the ring leader who others willingly follow. Charlotte hides her emotions, making her appear calculated and unemotional. All this works against Charlotte and this reader disliked Charlotte with her air of entitlement. Sophie, on the other hand, is ordinary looking. She is the girl that other children shy away from or bully because they sense that she is different. As a result, Charlotte is lonely and often comes across as desperate. She is constantly looking for opportunities to make friends so I felt sorry for her, more so when the opportunities didn't work out. Sophie's salvation is her musical ability but her innocence and trusting nature gets her in trouble when she tries to befriend Charlotte. Both girls take selfies of various body parts and it is not difficult to see what will happen to Sophie's photos in cyber space. The consequences are typical for society and and are far reaching.
The Golden Child is a thought provoking, relevant read for fans of Jodi Picoult and Liane Moriarty with a twist that makes you question everything you thought you knew.
#AWWC3#
October 7, 2019
There is a reason why Wendy James is one of my favourite Australian authors, and this book shows exactly why! All the stars from me. Oh, the sheer menace that was oozing out of this book – it made the hair on the back of my neck prickle and gave me nightmares.
How well do you know your children? If you have a cute little baby you may smile serenely and a bit smugly. At toddler age, it starts to dawn that maybe there is more to this parenting thing than you realised. As they turn into teenagers, it gets downright scary! It’s obvious that Wendy James is a parent, because her understanding of every mother’s worst fear is so well portrayed here. We all know about bullying, kids getting picked on in playgrounds and schoolyards, but technology has taken it all one step further – now we don’t even have to intimidate someone in person, it can all be done with the anonymity granted to us online. Let me tell you, if I have ever scoffed at the idea of cyber bullying (my answer being to just simply block people from your facebook account, what can be so difficult about that?) than I now stand humbled in front of the train wreck James has served me up with her latest, heart-pounding book.
Beth, an Australian ex-pat living in the US thinks she has it all: a successful husband, two gorgeous daughters, her weekly blog that gives her a creative outlet for her writing even as a stay-at-home mum. She looks on with fascination how her two daughters can be so different. Lucy, the elder, who is quiet and reflective and never gives any trouble. Charlie, the younger one, who is the opposite of her sister: a leader, an extrovert, a confident and popular girl who is always the centre of every group. An “incident” Charlie is involved in at school is soon forgotten when the family moves back to Australia to live and the girls start a new leaf at a new school. But trouble soon follows, and it’s Charlie who is in the spotlight again, for all the wrong reasons .....
THE GOLDEN CHILD pressed all my intense fear buttons as a parent, even though my children have safely made it through their teenage years by now and have come out intact on the other side. But my heart just bled for Beth! And yes, I have been a teenage girl once, and I know how utterly horrible these creatures can be. After reading about the little peer groups in James’ novel, I am glad that we escaped that particular life stage relatively unscathed (I say relatively, because there have been some road blocks, but nothing like Beth and Andi are facing). These girls are so horrible – ugh!
I loved how James uses blog posts and several different POVs to tell her terrifying tale. Not only did it put a very contemporary spiel on the story, but it also made for very entertaining reading. Following the trail of clues left by the author, I did arrive at the answer before the final reveal, but it did not in any way dampen my suspense, because the way I arrived there was simply nail bitingly terrible to watch. Enough said, no spoilers from me, you will simply have to read it.
All in all, I simply loved this book, if that’s the right word for something that burrows its way into your psyche and gives you nightmares, and you end up discussing it with all your friends and your long suffering husband, who does not see the relevance now that he can smugly look back on surviving our own kids’ teenagehoods. If you are a parent of teenagers, enter this one with caution and a good supply of sleeping pills, because it will keep you awake at night or surfing the net for your kids’ online presences as you contemplate emigrating to a third world country without internet access. It’s one of the best thrillers I have read this year, and one that manages to chill without any corpses, blood or gore or explicitly horrid scenes. It’s what I call a real psychological thriller. Very highly recommended!
*blog* *facebook* *instagram*
How well do you know your children? If you have a cute little baby you may smile serenely and a bit smugly. At toddler age, it starts to dawn that maybe there is more to this parenting thing than you realised. As they turn into teenagers, it gets downright scary! It’s obvious that Wendy James is a parent, because her understanding of every mother’s worst fear is so well portrayed here. We all know about bullying, kids getting picked on in playgrounds and schoolyards, but technology has taken it all one step further – now we don’t even have to intimidate someone in person, it can all be done with the anonymity granted to us online. Let me tell you, if I have ever scoffed at the idea of cyber bullying (my answer being to just simply block people from your facebook account, what can be so difficult about that?) than I now stand humbled in front of the train wreck James has served me up with her latest, heart-pounding book.
Beth, an Australian ex-pat living in the US thinks she has it all: a successful husband, two gorgeous daughters, her weekly blog that gives her a creative outlet for her writing even as a stay-at-home mum. She looks on with fascination how her two daughters can be so different. Lucy, the elder, who is quiet and reflective and never gives any trouble. Charlie, the younger one, who is the opposite of her sister: a leader, an extrovert, a confident and popular girl who is always the centre of every group. An “incident” Charlie is involved in at school is soon forgotten when the family moves back to Australia to live and the girls start a new leaf at a new school. But trouble soon follows, and it’s Charlie who is in the spotlight again, for all the wrong reasons .....
THE GOLDEN CHILD pressed all my intense fear buttons as a parent, even though my children have safely made it through their teenage years by now and have come out intact on the other side. But my heart just bled for Beth! And yes, I have been a teenage girl once, and I know how utterly horrible these creatures can be. After reading about the little peer groups in James’ novel, I am glad that we escaped that particular life stage relatively unscathed (I say relatively, because there have been some road blocks, but nothing like Beth and Andi are facing). These girls are so horrible – ugh!
I loved how James uses blog posts and several different POVs to tell her terrifying tale. Not only did it put a very contemporary spiel on the story, but it also made for very entertaining reading. Following the trail of clues left by the author, I did arrive at the answer before the final reveal, but it did not in any way dampen my suspense, because the way I arrived there was simply nail bitingly terrible to watch. Enough said, no spoilers from me, you will simply have to read it.
All in all, I simply loved this book, if that’s the right word for something that burrows its way into your psyche and gives you nightmares, and you end up discussing it with all your friends and your long suffering husband, who does not see the relevance now that he can smugly look back on surviving our own kids’ teenagehoods. If you are a parent of teenagers, enter this one with caution and a good supply of sleeping pills, because it will keep you awake at night or surfing the net for your kids’ online presences as you contemplate emigrating to a third world country without internet access. It’s one of the best thrillers I have read this year, and one that manages to chill without any corpses, blood or gore or explicitly horrid scenes. It’s what I call a real psychological thriller. Very highly recommended!
*blog* *facebook* *instagram*
February 6, 2017
Beth has two daughters, Lucy and Charlotte. Her online alter ego Lizzie lives a perfect life; however, in real life, Beth's world is somewhat less rosy. She has recently moved from New Jersey to Newcastle and is struggling with the transition, while her youngest daughter, Charlotte, is apparently bullying other children at her exclusive private school. What is Beth to do as her world crumbles around her?
All of the teenagers in this book are miserable and I think this is largely due to the awful parenting. Beth is a terrible mother! She organises a babysitter for her 15yo daughter, she spoils her awful entitled children, she has no personality herself except for being a mother and wife - she is the epitome of what happens when you read too many mummy blogs. Beth's mother is a terrible mother. Beth's mother in law is a terrible mother. No wonder all of the children are so terrible, given how they have been raised! I tend to avoid books that blame everything on women (down with the patriarchy). That said, this Jodi Picoult meets Lianne Moriarty book is very engaging. I would definitely recommend it as a holiday cocktails by the pool read, but only to be borrowed from the library. This is not a book that will be reread.
All of the teenagers in this book are miserable and I think this is largely due to the awful parenting. Beth is a terrible mother! She organises a babysitter for her 15yo daughter, she spoils her awful entitled children, she has no personality herself except for being a mother and wife - she is the epitome of what happens when you read too many mummy blogs. Beth's mother is a terrible mother. Beth's mother in law is a terrible mother. No wonder all of the children are so terrible, given how they have been raised! I tend to avoid books that blame everything on women (down with the patriarchy). That said, this Jodi Picoult meets Lianne Moriarty book is very engaging. I would definitely recommend it as a holiday cocktails by the pool read, but only to be borrowed from the library. This is not a book that will be reread.
February 4, 2017
Wow, what a book!
February 6, 2017
The Golden Child is an enthralling domestic drama, perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty. Australian author Wendy James has a sharp eye for the anxieties of being a parent, especially when a child may not be as perfect as they seem. With alternating perspectives and blog posts throughout, the characters are made all the more realistic. This is a truly gripping read, I couldn't put it down!
February 26, 2017
A domestic thriller about teenage bullying told from the alternating perspectives of the bully, the victim and both their mothers, interspersed with blog posts and social media exchanges.
Can bad children happen to good mothers? It was that question on the cover that sucked me in. I grabbed this book without even reading the blurb and I was not disappointed. I sat on the edge of my seat, I giggled, I swore this could never happen to me, I tweeted the author to tell her how much I was enjoying it and dropped everything to add my favourite quote to Goodreads. I engaged.
Can bad children happen to good mothers? It was that question on the cover that sucked me in. I grabbed this book without even reading the blurb and I was not disappointed. I sat on the edge of my seat, I giggled, I swore this could never happen to me, I tweeted the author to tell her how much I was enjoying it and dropped everything to add my favourite quote to Goodreads. I engaged.
March 1, 2017
Actual rating: 3.5*
When I first began reading this book I thought it was a breezy, quick read. Part way through I was bored with the 'mundane' of teenage girls, 3/5 through I got interested again and it wasn't until right at the end I saw the twist that was coming. In this sense, it was a cleverly designed book.
Do I have the desire to read it again - hmmm, probably not. Do elements of this book scare me as I am now a parent? Definitely! Does it reflect a world that teenagers live in? Unfortunately, I think yes - confrontingly, yes!
It leaves me questioning - what if you miss just the smallest thing as a parent or teacher ...
When I first began reading this book I thought it was a breezy, quick read. Part way through I was bored with the 'mundane' of teenage girls, 3/5 through I got interested again and it wasn't until right at the end I saw the twist that was coming. In this sense, it was a cleverly designed book.
Do I have the desire to read it again - hmmm, probably not. Do elements of this book scare me as I am now a parent? Definitely! Does it reflect a world that teenagers live in? Unfortunately, I think yes - confrontingly, yes!
It leaves me questioning - what if you miss just the smallest thing as a parent or teacher ...
December 31, 2018
Not quite a four-star read but definitely not a three either. The value of the read is in the author’s ability to convey the many sides and opinions related to cyber bullying, the influence of social media and the roles parents play. The narrative is engaging and largely accurate to the age groups. Beth’s daughter Charlotte is a piece of work and her ‘victim’ Sophie is bullied to the point of a failed suicide attempt.
The debate comes from the parents, grandparents, school, health services and community. The reference to AskFM (and it doesn’t matter if it exists by the time you read it, there will be another version) is pertinent because by the time parents know about these sites kids have generally moved on to the next one.
I’m not entirely convinced by the choices and actions that are made ‘after the events’ and some of the story should probably not be seen as advice but just as a novel. Highly relevant themes, great read especially if you have anything to do with tweens-teens. Interesting concluding twist.
The debate comes from the parents, grandparents, school, health services and community. The reference to AskFM (and it doesn’t matter if it exists by the time you read it, there will be another version) is pertinent because by the time parents know about these sites kids have generally moved on to the next one.
I’m not entirely convinced by the choices and actions that are made ‘after the events’ and some of the story should probably not be seen as advice but just as a novel. Highly relevant themes, great read especially if you have anything to do with tweens-teens. Interesting concluding twist.
February 5, 2017
There were a number of things which didn't ring true and I found the ending a little unsatisfying but overall a good read.
May 21, 2017
‘It could have been a whole lot worse.’
Beth Mahony and her husband Dan have been living in New Jersey, USA for long enough for their daughters Lucy and Charlotte (Charlie) to consider it home. So, while Beth is initially delighted when Dan tells her that they will be returning home to Australia, Lucy and Charlie are not. Beth hasn’t been able to work in the USA, and part of her energy has been spent blogging as Lizzy on DizzyLizzy.com. Beth used to be a journalist, and this is one way to practice her communication skills.
But Lizzy’s online life and Beth’s real life diverge once the family move back to Australia. Beth had hoped that they’d move to Sydney, but instead they are heading to Newcastle where Dan’s mother lives. Beth’s mother isn’t far away either, and the prospect of having them both so close is not one that Beth looks forward to.
And then there’s the girls. Charlie seems the most upset about moving to Australia, while Lucy seems more accepting. The girls are growing up, becoming more independent. Just before they leave the USA, there’s an incident involving one of the girls. It has Beth wondering, but there’s so much to do to move the family back to Australia, and surely it was just an accident?
In Australia, with Lucy and Charlie in a private high school, in a big house in need of renovation, Beth starts blogging again. She enjoys the contact with her followers around the world. Beth’s thinking, too, about getting a job. The girls are old enough to be a little more independent, and Dan’s mother is close by. Beth has met another mother, and their daughters are in the same class. New friendships?
And then, just when things seem to be settling, the world turns upside down. A classmate is bullied, both in person and on social media. It seems that one of Beth’s daughters may have been the ringleader. What has happened, and why?
‘Nobody could call it bullying ...’
The novel shifts between Beth, her blog as Lizzy and a series of posts on a website (known as GOLDENCHILD.COM) by ‘I’m a girl who knows how to get what she wants and likes to share.’ Part of the mystery is working out exactly who the Golden Child is. As the story unfolds, the claustrophobic world of teenaged girls with their rigid rules about acceptance and ostracism makes me grateful that these particular years are many decades behind me. The availability and use of social media makes it all so intense, so hard to escape.
There are twists in this story, twists which kept me wondering and reading. I found this novel absorbing, and confronting. Just how well do we know our children?
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Beth Mahony and her husband Dan have been living in New Jersey, USA for long enough for their daughters Lucy and Charlotte (Charlie) to consider it home. So, while Beth is initially delighted when Dan tells her that they will be returning home to Australia, Lucy and Charlie are not. Beth hasn’t been able to work in the USA, and part of her energy has been spent blogging as Lizzy on DizzyLizzy.com. Beth used to be a journalist, and this is one way to practice her communication skills.
But Lizzy’s online life and Beth’s real life diverge once the family move back to Australia. Beth had hoped that they’d move to Sydney, but instead they are heading to Newcastle where Dan’s mother lives. Beth’s mother isn’t far away either, and the prospect of having them both so close is not one that Beth looks forward to.
And then there’s the girls. Charlie seems the most upset about moving to Australia, while Lucy seems more accepting. The girls are growing up, becoming more independent. Just before they leave the USA, there’s an incident involving one of the girls. It has Beth wondering, but there’s so much to do to move the family back to Australia, and surely it was just an accident?
In Australia, with Lucy and Charlie in a private high school, in a big house in need of renovation, Beth starts blogging again. She enjoys the contact with her followers around the world. Beth’s thinking, too, about getting a job. The girls are old enough to be a little more independent, and Dan’s mother is close by. Beth has met another mother, and their daughters are in the same class. New friendships?
And then, just when things seem to be settling, the world turns upside down. A classmate is bullied, both in person and on social media. It seems that one of Beth’s daughters may have been the ringleader. What has happened, and why?
‘Nobody could call it bullying ...’
The novel shifts between Beth, her blog as Lizzy and a series of posts on a website (known as GOLDENCHILD.COM) by ‘I’m a girl who knows how to get what she wants and likes to share.’ Part of the mystery is working out exactly who the Golden Child is. As the story unfolds, the claustrophobic world of teenaged girls with their rigid rules about acceptance and ostracism makes me grateful that these particular years are many decades behind me. The availability and use of social media makes it all so intense, so hard to escape.
There are twists in this story, twists which kept me wondering and reading. I found this novel absorbing, and confronting. Just how well do we know our children?
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
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