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This Is Me
This is... Denise.
Married to Ray, her first and only love, Denise has never for one moment regretted putting the husband she idolised on a pedestal above everyone and everything else. But, after forty years of marriage, he is gone, leaving Denise to discover that their perfect marriage was fatally flawed. Now she faces a future alone, but first she must face the betrayals of the past.
This is... Claire.he estranged daughter of Denise, the woman who put her husband before her children, Claire took the opposite path and devoted her life to raising her family, sacrificing her marriage along the way. With her teenage sons about to flee the nest, she realises she may have left it too late to find her own happy ever after.
This is the story of two women, both alone, both cautionary tales of one of motherhood's biggest decisions.
Who is more important, your partner or your children? And what happens if you make the wrong choice?
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2019
2519 people are currently reading
1185 people want to read
About the author
Shari Low
48 books1,492 followers*No1 Multi-Million Copy Best-Selling Author*
LATEST NOVEL, JUST ONE MORE DAY IS OUT NOW!
In a career spanning twenty five years, author Shari Low has published over 40 books, and sold over five million copies around the globe, hitting the best seller charts in many countries including UK, USA, Canada, Germany and Australia.
In 2020, her first novel, What If? (originally published in 2001), was updated and re-released, followed by the sequels What Now? and What Next?. All three novels became international best sellers.
Since then, several of Shari's books have been #1 chart-toppers - including One Day With You, One Moment in Time, One Christmas Eve, One Year After You, One Midnight With You, One Day & Forever and One Snowy Day (all published by Boldwood Books).
Shari has also co-written three Hollywood thrillers, The Rise, The Catch and The Fall, with LA-based TV presenter and actor Ross King.
In real life, once upon a time she met a guy, got engaged after a week, and thirty-something years later she lives near Glasgow with the one they said would never last. Their children have now grown and scattered across the world, so she spends an inordinate amount of time on video calls and aeroplanes.
For all the latest news, visit Shari on Facebook, twitter, instagram or at sharilow dot com
LATEST NOVEL, JUST ONE MORE DAY IS OUT NOW!
In a career spanning twenty five years, author Shari Low has published over 40 books, and sold over five million copies around the globe, hitting the best seller charts in many countries including UK, USA, Canada, Germany and Australia.
In 2020, her first novel, What If? (originally published in 2001), was updated and re-released, followed by the sequels What Now? and What Next?. All three novels became international best sellers.
Since then, several of Shari's books have been #1 chart-toppers - including One Day With You, One Moment in Time, One Christmas Eve, One Year After You, One Midnight With You, One Day & Forever and One Snowy Day (all published by Boldwood Books).
Shari has also co-written three Hollywood thrillers, The Rise, The Catch and The Fall, with LA-based TV presenter and actor Ross King.
In real life, once upon a time she met a guy, got engaged after a week, and thirty-something years later she lives near Glasgow with the one they said would never last. Their children have now grown and scattered across the world, so she spends an inordinate amount of time on video calls and aeroplanes.
For all the latest news, visit Shari on Facebook, twitter, instagram or at sharilow dot com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
May 10, 2019
4☆ A Thought Provoking, Poignant and Heart warming Must Read!
This is Me is a poignant and Heartwarming read about being a Mother, Choices, Outcomes, Relationships and second chances.
The story tells of mother Denise and daughter Claire and their fraught relationship together.
Denise and Claire have one thing standing between them, stopping them bonding... Denise's Husband and Claire's Father Ray.
But now he has passed away....
Can the two of them repair their relationship or is it too damaged?
Denise is grief stricken now husband Ray has passed away.
Claire is determined not to make the same mistakes her mother made, when she made her husband a top priority. Putting his happiness before her children's.
Claire vowed to always put her children first.
But again that came at a price when Claire's marriage ends and her children have grown up and moved out!
Which of the women got it right?
In my eyes neither did!!
But I'll let you make up your own mind.
Each of them are suffering in different ways.
This is Me is a thought provoking read, that is definitely relatable, it's a poignant and compelling read with a good dash of humour to keep it light.
It's told in different points of view and timelines which seamlessly weaved together.
The Characters are relatable, strong and well thought out.
I would definitely recommend this enthralling read if you are looking for a Women's Fiction, that's a heart warming story of fraught relationships, second chances and family drama.
That is thought provoking and has a good dash of humour then you will love This is Me by Shari Low.
Thank you to Aria Fiction for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
This is Me is a poignant and Heartwarming read about being a Mother, Choices, Outcomes, Relationships and second chances.
The story tells of mother Denise and daughter Claire and their fraught relationship together.
Denise and Claire have one thing standing between them, stopping them bonding... Denise's Husband and Claire's Father Ray.
But now he has passed away....
Can the two of them repair their relationship or is it too damaged?
Denise is grief stricken now husband Ray has passed away.
Claire is determined not to make the same mistakes her mother made, when she made her husband a top priority. Putting his happiness before her children's.
Claire vowed to always put her children first.
But again that came at a price when Claire's marriage ends and her children have grown up and moved out!
Which of the women got it right?
In my eyes neither did!!
But I'll let you make up your own mind.
Each of them are suffering in different ways.
This is Me is a thought provoking read, that is definitely relatable, it's a poignant and compelling read with a good dash of humour to keep it light.
It's told in different points of view and timelines which seamlessly weaved together.
The Characters are relatable, strong and well thought out.
I would definitely recommend this enthralling read if you are looking for a Women's Fiction, that's a heart warming story of fraught relationships, second chances and family drama.
That is thought provoking and has a good dash of humour then you will love This is Me by Shari Low.
Thank you to Aria Fiction for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
May 22, 2019
Well hello you fabulous emotional roller coaster! This book stirred up a wide range of emotions for me and I am sure it will for many others. The reason being is that it is so realistic, quite frankly it could be called This is Life, because it sure is true to life!
The focus is on two women, Claire and her mother Denise and their dysfunctional relationship. Choices have been made in the past that have torn them apart. Denise has chosen to put her relationship to her husband Ray first and has chosen to cast her children aside to please him. After growing up in this toxic environment, Claire decides she will never be like her parents. Claire's focus is on her children and nobody will come in between that, not even her own husband.
I was completely shocked at Denise and her husband Ray and how they treated their children. It made me angry and sad. Yet I guarantee we all know a Denise and Ray. Denise was so blinded by love that she became obsessed with Ray and he could do no wrong. When Ray dies suddenly, her world is tipped upside down. I must admit I had trouble feeling sorry for her. She fell victim to the manipulation of Ray and wanting to be a good wife to her wonderful husband. Was he that wonderful? You be the judge. As she struggles to function after his death her world continues to crash down around her and she is all alone. Denise has burnt all her bridges- no friends, no family, complete isolation as Ray would like it.
Claire on the other hand was a more likable character and I could relate to her more. I am sure we all know a Claire too in our lives. She was just trying to be a good mom and was fueled by her own experiences. She did allow her relationship with her husband Sam to suffer and she did pay a price for it. As we all know there is a fine balance with relationships and it is often tipped unevenly on the scale.
I flew through this book as I was fascinated with the family dynamics and I wanted to know how this would unfold. This is my first book by Shari Low and I loved her writing style. She made me feel like I knew the characters and truly got my emotions going. I feel that an author that can pull you in so strongly that you get angry, sad and truly having empathy for her characters has done an amazing job.
The focus is on two women, Claire and her mother Denise and their dysfunctional relationship. Choices have been made in the past that have torn them apart. Denise has chosen to put her relationship to her husband Ray first and has chosen to cast her children aside to please him. After growing up in this toxic environment, Claire decides she will never be like her parents. Claire's focus is on her children and nobody will come in between that, not even her own husband.
I was completely shocked at Denise and her husband Ray and how they treated their children. It made me angry and sad. Yet I guarantee we all know a Denise and Ray. Denise was so blinded by love that she became obsessed with Ray and he could do no wrong. When Ray dies suddenly, her world is tipped upside down. I must admit I had trouble feeling sorry for her. She fell victim to the manipulation of Ray and wanting to be a good wife to her wonderful husband. Was he that wonderful? You be the judge. As she struggles to function after his death her world continues to crash down around her and she is all alone. Denise has burnt all her bridges- no friends, no family, complete isolation as Ray would like it.
Claire on the other hand was a more likable character and I could relate to her more. I am sure we all know a Claire too in our lives. She was just trying to be a good mom and was fueled by her own experiences. She did allow her relationship with her husband Sam to suffer and she did pay a price for it. As we all know there is a fine balance with relationships and it is often tipped unevenly on the scale.
I flew through this book as I was fascinated with the family dynamics and I wanted to know how this would unfold. This is my first book by Shari Low and I loved her writing style. She made me feel like I knew the characters and truly got my emotions going. I feel that an author that can pull you in so strongly that you get angry, sad and truly having empathy for her characters has done an amazing job.
May 3, 2019
I have to declare it right here, right now - Shari Low is bloody brilliant!! Her writing caused waves of emotion to course through me, sometimes they were gentle, filled with love and warmth and the other, they were swirling and thrashing where I wanted nothing more than shake some sense into the characters.
Her portrayal of the characters in this book were so dynamic that the contrariness of each came into the forefront like a burst of radiance. She showed both ends of the spectrum in this story. Denise, a lousy mother who pandered to her husband Ray's wishes even at the cost of her children's well being and Claire who was the best mother but neglected her husband to the point they broke up. Denise and Claire were mother and daughter. Then Ray died and that unveiled the truth, it revealed his vileness. Ughhh... I hated that selfish boor of a man!!!
Emotions were a tempest, and I could do nothing but stand strong like the rocks with the waves beating on to me, making me feel love, anger, tears, sadness, frustration, and resignation. Whew!! Did I not tell you the author is bloody brilliant?!! And every stroke of her pen was dipped in the sheer mastery of her words. How I loved to be in the center of such raging emotions!! The last line of the book made me laugh manically and say - Here we go again.
Shari Low's book taught me one important thing. Some people don't change, and it is no use giving them second and third chances. That's one chance too many. Read the book, if you will, for the beautiful emotions with friendship and love galore.
Her portrayal of the characters in this book were so dynamic that the contrariness of each came into the forefront like a burst of radiance. She showed both ends of the spectrum in this story. Denise, a lousy mother who pandered to her husband Ray's wishes even at the cost of her children's well being and Claire who was the best mother but neglected her husband to the point they broke up. Denise and Claire were mother and daughter. Then Ray died and that unveiled the truth, it revealed his vileness. Ughhh... I hated that selfish boor of a man!!!
Emotions were a tempest, and I could do nothing but stand strong like the rocks with the waves beating on to me, making me feel love, anger, tears, sadness, frustration, and resignation. Whew!! Did I not tell you the author is bloody brilliant?!! And every stroke of her pen was dipped in the sheer mastery of her words. How I loved to be in the center of such raging emotions!! The last line of the book made me laugh manically and say - Here we go again.
Shari Low's book taught me one important thing. Some people don't change, and it is no use giving them second and third chances. That's one chance too many. Read the book, if you will, for the beautiful emotions with friendship and love galore.
May 8, 2023
I thought I’d read something a little lighter between heavier books.
I don’t think this was as “light” as I anticipated but it was a good change genre wise.
Married to a man you idolise, feel safe in the relationship and raise children with, then suddenly it all is over in a heart beat…..you are that much older now….
Just what and who do you put first, your partner? Your children?
Shari Low writes some interesting thought provoking stories with well rounded characters that anyone could relate to I find.
I don’t think this was as “light” as I anticipated but it was a good change genre wise.
Married to a man you idolise, feel safe in the relationship and raise children with, then suddenly it all is over in a heart beat…..you are that much older now….
Just what and who do you put first, your partner? Your children?
Shari Low writes some interesting thought provoking stories with well rounded characters that anyone could relate to I find.
May 15, 2021
This just did not work at all for me. Not nice people and had to give up the ghost at 20%. DNF
June 3, 2019
I was on the promotional blog tour for this book!
Two women, a mother and a daughter and both have very similar life experiences. Set in the 1970s and the present day, This Is Me is a powerful and raw novel that explores life between one family in Glasgow throughout the decades. Where hidden secrets, some very shocking are revealed for the first time. With an array of characters with their own traits and stories, this contemporary read had its happy, sad and surprising moments. Shari’s writing style pulled me in from the first chapter. I loved the duel POVs between main characters Denise and Claire, as well as the use of 1970s songs tying into the plotline. The pacing was quick and the format easy to read!
EXTRA THOUGHTS- I actually went back and re-read some other reviews. I completely agree with the person who said this was an emotional roller coaster. You will need tissues for this one.
Two women, a mother and a daughter and both have very similar life experiences. Set in the 1970s and the present day, This Is Me is a powerful and raw novel that explores life between one family in Glasgow throughout the decades. Where hidden secrets, some very shocking are revealed for the first time. With an array of characters with their own traits and stories, this contemporary read had its happy, sad and surprising moments. Shari’s writing style pulled me in from the first chapter. I loved the duel POVs between main characters Denise and Claire, as well as the use of 1970s songs tying into the plotline. The pacing was quick and the format easy to read!
EXTRA THOUGHTS- I actually went back and re-read some other reviews. I completely agree with the person who said this was an emotional roller coaster. You will need tissues for this one.
May 5, 2019
The prologue reveals one death provoking two very different reactions from mother and daughter, Denise and Claire. The reasons why, and for their estrangement, will become apparent over the course of the book through a series of flashbacks.
Some characters from Shari Low’s book, One Day in December, make a return appearance in This Is Me and there are brief references to events in the earlier book. I particularly enjoyed becoming reacquainted with the irrepressible Val and Josie – all wine, wisecracks and wisdom. They, along with her best friend Jeanna, form part of Claire’s support network as she struggles with her ’empty nest’ feelings now her two sons have left home. Her friends also provide the pretext for Claire’s reminiscences about her troubled relationship with her mother and father, her first meeting with future but now ex-husband, Sam, and their early years together. Along the way, Claire learns a few unexpected secrets as well!
Denise has no such support network meaning, although I found her life decisions and choices a challenge to comprehend, I could sympathize with the lonely situation she finds herself in and her despair at the things she discovers.
There was one character in the book I definitely could not sympathize with; in fact, who I loathed with a vengeance. Selfish, manipulative and deceitful, I simply couldn’t understand how a person could inspire such devotion. On the other hand, Claire’s ex-husband Sam, seemed a positive paragon.
The book presents the choice the two women make – between putting their children or their partner first – in pretty black and white terms. I’d like to hope in real life there are shades in between.
This Is Me is an engaging, emotional story about motherhood, relationships and the choices we often face in our personal lives. In some respects a cautionary tale, it’s also a celebration of female friendship and the possibility of new beginnings and, just maybe, second chances.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers, Aria, and NetGalley.
Some characters from Shari Low’s book, One Day in December, make a return appearance in This Is Me and there are brief references to events in the earlier book. I particularly enjoyed becoming reacquainted with the irrepressible Val and Josie – all wine, wisecracks and wisdom. They, along with her best friend Jeanna, form part of Claire’s support network as she struggles with her ’empty nest’ feelings now her two sons have left home. Her friends also provide the pretext for Claire’s reminiscences about her troubled relationship with her mother and father, her first meeting with future but now ex-husband, Sam, and their early years together. Along the way, Claire learns a few unexpected secrets as well!
Denise has no such support network meaning, although I found her life decisions and choices a challenge to comprehend, I could sympathize with the lonely situation she finds herself in and her despair at the things she discovers.
There was one character in the book I definitely could not sympathize with; in fact, who I loathed with a vengeance. Selfish, manipulative and deceitful, I simply couldn’t understand how a person could inspire such devotion. On the other hand, Claire’s ex-husband Sam, seemed a positive paragon.
The book presents the choice the two women make – between putting their children or their partner first – in pretty black and white terms. I’d like to hope in real life there are shades in between.
This Is Me is an engaging, emotional story about motherhood, relationships and the choices we often face in our personal lives. In some respects a cautionary tale, it’s also a celebration of female friendship and the possibility of new beginnings and, just maybe, second chances.
I received a review copy courtesy of publishers, Aria, and NetGalley.
May 2, 2019
This is a fun, sparkling read! However, as we all know, every family has it's problems...
Ray is the love of Denise's life; she has adored him for over forty years, putting him first ahead of everything - even their own children. So with his death, where does that leave her now?
Claire, Denise's daughter, has always been well aware that she doesn't count in her mother's eyes. Claire vowed to always put her own children first and foremost in life, even if it cost her her marriage. Now she's an empty nester, she misses her two sons more than words can say - but just because they're no longer under her roof doesn't mean to say she doesn't fret about them. So, how has life treated this mother and daughter with differing ideals?
This is such a great book! Every single woman - with children or without - will be able to identify with at least one character. And, trust me, there are some really lively characters in these pages! Set in Glasgow I have, as a Scot, absolutely loved the humour and have had to cease reading several times to wipe the tears of mirth from my eyes! Author Shari Low has a real gift for getting the narrative spot-on! The premise is entirely believable, and I'm not sure it's possible to complete this one without feeling empathy for both the main characters.
With more than a touch of sadness and many, many laughs, this is a really entertaining and fun read. Note to self: must read much, much more of this author's work! Really well-written with a satisfying story and fabulous characters, I raced through this one giggling my head off. Oh, to have friends like Claire's! Every woman deserves a Jeanna in her life - trust me, we'd all feel better for it. Undoubtedly, a sparkling five star read!
Ray is the love of Denise's life; she has adored him for over forty years, putting him first ahead of everything - even their own children. So with his death, where does that leave her now?
Claire, Denise's daughter, has always been well aware that she doesn't count in her mother's eyes. Claire vowed to always put her own children first and foremost in life, even if it cost her her marriage. Now she's an empty nester, she misses her two sons more than words can say - but just because they're no longer under her roof doesn't mean to say she doesn't fret about them. So, how has life treated this mother and daughter with differing ideals?
This is such a great book! Every single woman - with children or without - will be able to identify with at least one character. And, trust me, there are some really lively characters in these pages! Set in Glasgow I have, as a Scot, absolutely loved the humour and have had to cease reading several times to wipe the tears of mirth from my eyes! Author Shari Low has a real gift for getting the narrative spot-on! The premise is entirely believable, and I'm not sure it's possible to complete this one without feeling empathy for both the main characters.
With more than a touch of sadness and many, many laughs, this is a really entertaining and fun read. Note to self: must read much, much more of this author's work! Really well-written with a satisfying story and fabulous characters, I raced through this one giggling my head off. Oh, to have friends like Claire's! Every woman deserves a Jeanna in her life - trust me, we'd all feel better for it. Undoubtedly, a sparkling five star read!
August 21, 2019
Tedious and pointless!
November 8, 2019
I really like the question in the blurb “Who is more important, your partner or your children?” I don’t have kids, but I can imagine it must be a tough balance to find.
This book is about two women that take that question and run with it in opposite directions. One puts her kids above her own and her husband’s happiness. The other neglects her children in favour of being the perfect wife to her husband and ensuring all of his needs are met.
It is almost as if four stories are running parallel in this book. We have alternating chapters of Denise in the present day, then Denise’s past. We then have Claire in the present day and then a chapter on her past. I’m not sure this method of storytelling worked that well for this book. I don’t usually mind a backwards and forwards book nor one that follows multiple characters. However, the way this book was set out made it really hard to get into, and by the time you’d done a loop and were back say with Claire in the present, you’d read three chapters, and you’d forgotten what Claire was currently up to. It was Claire’s story I struggled with the most as hers wasn’t as heartbreaking nor as fascinating. So I’d find myself currently back in the present with Claire thinking how did I last leave her, oh yes she makes wedding dresses, and she’s in her shop with her friends. Due to the large gaps between each story (I saw it as four stories), it didn’t feel like the book was progressing. Nothing was really happening; the only story that had purpose were the ones in the past.
I knew this was a book of parallel stories, but I wasn’t expecting the reminiscing sections as well.
As the book went on, and we got to know the characters a little better, I found myself rushing through Claire’s section to get back to Denise’s. Her past was much more interesting plus we knew she was going through heartache right from the beginning of the book, so she was a little easier to relate to. Her story was still shocking, and she wasn’t the nicest of people to sympathise with. I’ve enjoyed all of the Shari Low books that I have read so far, but I found this one really hard to get to grips with, and it took me until at least 50% in to feel like I was invested in the book. It still got me in the feels as all of her books have due to her style of writing, but I just didn’t feel like it went anywhere or made me glad I’d invested my time in it. If I hadn’t been reviewing it for NetGalley, I probably would have abandoned it around 30% of the way in! It was just too slow-going for my liking.
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
This book is about two women that take that question and run with it in opposite directions. One puts her kids above her own and her husband’s happiness. The other neglects her children in favour of being the perfect wife to her husband and ensuring all of his needs are met.
It is almost as if four stories are running parallel in this book. We have alternating chapters of Denise in the present day, then Denise’s past. We then have Claire in the present day and then a chapter on her past. I’m not sure this method of storytelling worked that well for this book. I don’t usually mind a backwards and forwards book nor one that follows multiple characters. However, the way this book was set out made it really hard to get into, and by the time you’d done a loop and were back say with Claire in the present, you’d read three chapters, and you’d forgotten what Claire was currently up to. It was Claire’s story I struggled with the most as hers wasn’t as heartbreaking nor as fascinating. So I’d find myself currently back in the present with Claire thinking how did I last leave her, oh yes she makes wedding dresses, and she’s in her shop with her friends. Due to the large gaps between each story (I saw it as four stories), it didn’t feel like the book was progressing. Nothing was really happening; the only story that had purpose were the ones in the past.
I knew this was a book of parallel stories, but I wasn’t expecting the reminiscing sections as well.
As the book went on, and we got to know the characters a little better, I found myself rushing through Claire’s section to get back to Denise’s. Her past was much more interesting plus we knew she was going through heartache right from the beginning of the book, so she was a little easier to relate to. Her story was still shocking, and she wasn’t the nicest of people to sympathise with. I’ve enjoyed all of the Shari Low books that I have read so far, but I found this one really hard to get to grips with, and it took me until at least 50% in to feel like I was invested in the book. It still got me in the feels as all of her books have due to her style of writing, but I just didn’t feel like it went anywhere or made me glad I’d invested my time in it. If I hadn’t been reviewing it for NetGalley, I probably would have abandoned it around 30% of the way in! It was just too slow-going for my liking.
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
August 29, 2019
4,5 StarsThe book cover asks "Two lives. Two loves. But which one would you choose?" For me (and probably every reader of this book) the answer is soo easy, because I truly despised Denise and Ray. At first I wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt, and was looking for reasons that made their behavious at least understandable, if not excusable. But with every chapter about their past together I felt only more and more anger rising up in me. How one could behave like that towards their own offspring I can for the life of me not understand.
The stories of Denise and Claire are told alternatingly, as well as with chapters from the past and the present. (At the beginning I had to think twice sometimes to remember what happened last in this particular storyline - but this disorientation soon dissolved.) The (most) chapters from Claire's present actually felt a bit like a theatrical production. It is set in one room, with new characters entering the stage in every chapter and adding to the dynamic of the story. A stylistic device that was deployed pretty well.
Although half of the story was quite 'uncomfortable' regarding its content, reading the whole book was a joy.
May 2, 2019
This was a wonderfully poignant, well written and entertaining story.
I was gripped by both women's journeys, the flashbacks set up the story in a way that helped you see how their characters and circumstances developed and provided many laughs and tears along the way.
It really left me with questions about the choices we make and the priorities we give others, and ourselves.
Thought-provoking and life-affirming.
I was gripped by both women's journeys, the flashbacks set up the story in a way that helped you see how their characters and circumstances developed and provided many laughs and tears along the way.
It really left me with questions about the choices we make and the priorities we give others, and ourselves.
Thought-provoking and life-affirming.
May 23, 2019
First confession time; I haven’t had the pleasure to read any of Shari Low’s work before, but from reading this one I will be reading more of her work in the future. I was fascinated by the sound of this and that was enough to draw me and want to read it and am I so pleased that I did, this is a hugely emotional and very poignant book that is so relative to our times and our lives.
This is Me is such a heart-warming story that so many women can relate to, it’s bursting with huge amounts of emotion. Its real and at times haunting, and it will certainly make you evaluate your own life and the choices you have made. It’s all about the two women; mother and daughter Denise and Claire and their choices in life; motherhood and relationships, the choices they have to make and the consequences that arises because of those decisions.
Denise has always put her husband; Ray first above all else, which did include her daughter Claire. Denise idolized her husband and when he passes she soon realises that her marriage was the idyllic haven she had always thought it to be. She sees that over the years her and daughter Claire have drifted further and further apart and they are at the stage that their relationship may never be fixed. Claire has always resented how her mother treated – or not treated her and she vowed that she would never be like that with her own children. She has always put her sons first, even at the cost of her own marriage but now they have flown the nest she starts to see that she has isolated herself and worries that she may missed her chance for happiness for herself.
This is a powerful, thought provoking read that so many can relate to in one way or another, it really focus on the estranged and fragile relationship between mother and daughter. Questions arise throughout that really make you think, and look at your own relationships through fresh eyes.
This is written through both Denise and Claire’s POV, you see both sides of the story and see the damage that has been caused on both sides. The question of who was in the right does pop up many times during the book, and to be honest I think both were wrong in ways, but This Is Me is one of those books that will open conversations and make people talk. The characters are perfectly written, they are real and relatable and I thoroughly enjoyed going on their personal journeys with them and when we find out what kind of man ray really was….well he was horrid!
There is sadness, tears, laughter, confusion, frustration, honestly you will go on a roller-coaster ride of emotions with this, the writing is so clear and vivid that you will feel every emotion as thought your are living it yourself.
Very highly recommended!
This is Me is such a heart-warming story that so many women can relate to, it’s bursting with huge amounts of emotion. Its real and at times haunting, and it will certainly make you evaluate your own life and the choices you have made. It’s all about the two women; mother and daughter Denise and Claire and their choices in life; motherhood and relationships, the choices they have to make and the consequences that arises because of those decisions.
Denise has always put her husband; Ray first above all else, which did include her daughter Claire. Denise idolized her husband and when he passes she soon realises that her marriage was the idyllic haven she had always thought it to be. She sees that over the years her and daughter Claire have drifted further and further apart and they are at the stage that their relationship may never be fixed. Claire has always resented how her mother treated – or not treated her and she vowed that she would never be like that with her own children. She has always put her sons first, even at the cost of her own marriage but now they have flown the nest she starts to see that she has isolated herself and worries that she may missed her chance for happiness for herself.
This is a powerful, thought provoking read that so many can relate to in one way or another, it really focus on the estranged and fragile relationship between mother and daughter. Questions arise throughout that really make you think, and look at your own relationships through fresh eyes.
This is written through both Denise and Claire’s POV, you see both sides of the story and see the damage that has been caused on both sides. The question of who was in the right does pop up many times during the book, and to be honest I think both were wrong in ways, but This Is Me is one of those books that will open conversations and make people talk. The characters are perfectly written, they are real and relatable and I thoroughly enjoyed going on their personal journeys with them and when we find out what kind of man ray really was….well he was horrid!
There is sadness, tears, laughter, confusion, frustration, honestly you will go on a roller-coaster ride of emotions with this, the writing is so clear and vivid that you will feel every emotion as thought your are living it yourself.
Very highly recommended!
May 8, 2019
'This is Me' is a story of ordinary people, who are forced to look back on their lives when a pinnacle person in the family dies, unexpectedly. Denise (the mother), is grief-stricken at the loss of her husband Ray. She has devoted her life to him, and now she has no direction. Claire(the daughter) despised her father, and because of him is estranged from her mother. She chose a different path with her children, but now they're living their lives and she wonders if she should have done more to save her marriage.
This is a story of regret, hindsight and the possibility of a more positive life for both women, but first, they relive and hopefully learn from the important milestones in their lives' to date. The retro flashbacks in this book are evocative for anyone who lived through them. Youth clubs and David Soul in the late 1970s and Take That and 1999 in the late 1990s and the millennium.
The cast of characters, some of which have appeared before, add depth and interest to the plot. There is a notable disparity between the network of support Claire has, compared to her mother.
Life choices are the key theme to this story, and ones every woman who has a partner and children has to make. Denise and Claire's choices are husband or children, most people's choices are less defined and make accommodations to facilitate different times in the child's life cycle. However, the scenario's and the characters are believable and realistic.
'This Is Me' is a story of family, friends and the dynamics that are part of every family. Claire is determined to be the antithesis of her mother, but in doing so fails to find a balance in her family life. The importance of nurturing in childhood is explored in this story because it shapes the adults we become
A dramatic interpretation of ordinary lives and relationships filled with emotion, guilt, hate, humour and love, demonstrated through believable, flawed characters. It is both emotional and engaging to read.
I received a copy of this book from Aria Fiction via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This is a story of regret, hindsight and the possibility of a more positive life for both women, but first, they relive and hopefully learn from the important milestones in their lives' to date. The retro flashbacks in this book are evocative for anyone who lived through them. Youth clubs and David Soul in the late 1970s and Take That and 1999 in the late 1990s and the millennium.
The cast of characters, some of which have appeared before, add depth and interest to the plot. There is a notable disparity between the network of support Claire has, compared to her mother.
Life choices are the key theme to this story, and ones every woman who has a partner and children has to make. Denise and Claire's choices are husband or children, most people's choices are less defined and make accommodations to facilitate different times in the child's life cycle. However, the scenario's and the characters are believable and realistic.
'This Is Me' is a story of family, friends and the dynamics that are part of every family. Claire is determined to be the antithesis of her mother, but in doing so fails to find a balance in her family life. The importance of nurturing in childhood is explored in this story because it shapes the adults we become
A dramatic interpretation of ordinary lives and relationships filled with emotion, guilt, hate, humour and love, demonstrated through believable, flawed characters. It is both emotional and engaging to read.
I received a copy of this book from Aria Fiction via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
May 3, 2019
(I received a digital ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
(I am torn between 3.5 and 4 stars. Goodreads, please give us half the star.)
It was easy to establish which side I was on when I first opened This is Me.
me to Denise:
A wife who adores her husband to death that she abandoned their children. Two kids who started taking care of themselves under the roof of their maternal grandfather without having some sorts of normalcy with their parents.
Yea, it should be obvious.
This is Me used two point of views back and forth between Denise, the wife, and Claire, the mother. Both women chose what was important in their lives, intertwined slightly during their pasts, Denise motherhood and Claire adolescent ages.
It was a stark view on both. Denise loves her husband, that much was obvious, as if his words are the prophet's words and 100% sucks at being a mother. Meanwhile, Claire dotes on her children, paying little attention to her husband to make up what she lack during her childhood.
Both are in the wrong, tbh. But I stand by the Claire.
This is Me opened with the death of Ray, Denise's husband. It could go on the route of mother-children pilgrimage to love each other, but it didn't. And for that, I'm eternally grateful.
Once again, Shari Low managed to blow me with her words, her nuance, and her characterisations. How both women, different, and yet the same, would turn your emotion inside out.
This is Me is a story of how children will mirror what they see/feel of their parents. And that history will repeats itself, if one doesn't want to address and fix it.
(I am torn between 3.5 and 4 stars. Goodreads, please give us half the star.)
It was easy to establish which side I was on when I first opened This is Me.
me to Denise:
A wife who adores her husband to death that she abandoned their children. Two kids who started taking care of themselves under the roof of their maternal grandfather without having some sorts of normalcy with their parents.
Yea, it should be obvious.
This is Me used two point of views back and forth between Denise, the wife, and Claire, the mother. Both women chose what was important in their lives, intertwined slightly during their pasts, Denise motherhood and Claire adolescent ages.
It was a stark view on both. Denise loves her husband, that much was obvious, as if his words are the prophet's words and 100% sucks at being a mother. Meanwhile, Claire dotes on her children, paying little attention to her husband to make up what she lack during her childhood.
Both are in the wrong, tbh. But I stand by the Claire.
This is Me opened with the death of Ray, Denise's husband. It could go on the route of mother-children pilgrimage to love each other, but it didn't. And for that, I'm eternally grateful.
Once again, Shari Low managed to blow me with her words, her nuance, and her characterisations. How both women, different, and yet the same, would turn your emotion inside out.
This is Me is a story of how children will mirror what they see/feel of their parents. And that history will repeats itself, if one doesn't want to address and fix it.
April 7, 2019
Oh WOW! What an emotional rollercoaster this story is.
I have read many books by Shari Low and she never fails to deliver a poignant yet funny, deep yet entertaining story.
I loved its structure with different POVs and a dual timeline which contribute to keep the suspense going and the reader's curiosity alive all throughout it.
If one side of the story is slightly predictable (but never boring or dull) the other is full of surprises right to the end.
And what a pleasure to see an appearance of many characters I had come to love in her previous books!
Totally recommended.
I had the great pleasure to be able to read this book through NetGalley, before it was published. Many thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley. #ThisIsMe #NetGalley
I have read many books by Shari Low and she never fails to deliver a poignant yet funny, deep yet entertaining story.
I loved its structure with different POVs and a dual timeline which contribute to keep the suspense going and the reader's curiosity alive all throughout it.
If one side of the story is slightly predictable (but never boring or dull) the other is full of surprises right to the end.
And what a pleasure to see an appearance of many characters I had come to love in her previous books!
Totally recommended.
I had the great pleasure to be able to read this book through NetGalley, before it was published. Many thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley. #ThisIsMe #NetGalley
February 7, 2021
Een heerlijk verhaal. Al werd het gaandeweg wel iets triester. Denise is geen goede moeder voor haar kinderen en daardoor heeft ze geen goede band met hen als ze inmiddels zelf volwassen zijn. De dood van Ray brengt daar geen verandering in. Aan de ene kant vind ik dat jammer, want ik had op dat punt een happy end verwacht. Aan de andere kant is dat in het echte leven ook niet altijd zo, dus in dat opzicht is het verhaal realistisch. Ik had soms wat medelijden met Denise. Al had ik meer medelijden met haar dochter Claire, dat ze zulke waardeloze ouders had. Het verhaal leest over het algemeen vlot en ik had dan ook moeite om het boek weg te leggen. Alleen op het einde had ik het gevoel dat het verhaal iets trager ging, maar misschien kwam dat ook doordat ik zo nieuwsgierig naar het einde was dat het me niet snel genoeg ging. Het verhaal wordt grotendeels verteld vanuit terugblikken op het verleden. Ik moest daar even aan wennen, maar uiteindelijk werkt het wel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2022
I really enjoyed this book.I liked the characters.It shows how relationships with family and loved ones can be complex.Sometimes just can't tell what's going on from the outside.It also touches on what is like as a parent when your children grow up and leave to have lives of their own,
The rollercoaster of emotions of the empty nest and the chance to have a life yourself again.After years of looking after other people it's time to look after yourself.I would recommend this book to anyone in that place in life.
The rollercoaster of emotions of the empty nest and the chance to have a life yourself again.After years of looking after other people it's time to look after yourself.I would recommend this book to anyone in that place in life.
June 11, 2019
This was another page-turning read from Shari Low. I just wanted more! I loved the characters and wanted to get to know them even better and see them share more memories from their pasts. Would especially love extra Doug and Jeanna scenes. Maybe they are coming in future books! Yes please! A story of love and dedication and the importance of making the right decisions at the right time. Recommended!
June 23, 2024
I loved all the crossovers of characters we’ve met before, my adored Aunt Val and Josie. I have to be honest and say that while I really enjoyed this, it wasn’t my favourite. The writing and narration are fabulous. Maybe I’m lucky in that I didn’t connect with the main story, however I know that many will and do. If that’s you. Go gently on yourself x
September 18, 2023
Another great read by Shari. For me it highlighted the importance of having enough love not only for your children but your partner too and finding the right balance.
July 31, 2024
Easy read
Perfect, easy read. Enjoyed the two women’s perspectives and times of their lives going back and forth to the past and 2019. Would recommend x
Perfect, easy read. Enjoyed the two women’s perspectives and times of their lives going back and forth to the past and 2019. Would recommend x
January 12, 2023
beautiful read
Lovely book. Heartbreaking, frustrating but warm and fuzzy as are all Shari’s books. Fabulous read for chilled out evenings and weekends
Lovely book. Heartbreaking, frustrating but warm and fuzzy as are all Shari’s books. Fabulous read for chilled out evenings and weekends
May 19, 2023
Another great read by this author about the trials and tribulations of family relationships which we can all relate to with some great humour really enjoyed it
March 3, 2019
4⭐️ Review
Denise - a wife and mother who puts her husband first. Claire - Denise’s daughter, became the mom that she didn’t have, and puts her boys first. The result? Two different outcomes in life. This story really makes you realize that a good healthy balance in marriage and parenting is necessary. And, also, maybe love your kids a little bit more as they are more likely to be there when you are old. 😁 This was a good read by Shari Low. The book bounces between Denise and Claire’s lives past and present. The story ties together nicely, though. It was a bit of a slow read in the beginning for me, but overall, I really enjoyed this book!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Aria for allowing me to read an ARC of this new book, which is set to release May 2, 2019.
Denise - a wife and mother who puts her husband first. Claire - Denise’s daughter, became the mom that she didn’t have, and puts her boys first. The result? Two different outcomes in life. This story really makes you realize that a good healthy balance in marriage and parenting is necessary. And, also, maybe love your kids a little bit more as they are more likely to be there when you are old. 😁 This was a good read by Shari Low. The book bounces between Denise and Claire’s lives past and present. The story ties together nicely, though. It was a bit of a slow read in the beginning for me, but overall, I really enjoyed this book!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Aria for allowing me to read an ARC of this new book, which is set to release May 2, 2019.
May 30, 2019
This is Me, is easily one of this year’s must-reads.
The book focuses on the dysfunctional relationships in a family whose foundation is based on emotional control, and grounded in unstable and shifting sand.
Denise is one of those characters that I tried to like, but I couldn’t - even though I kept trying. Pregnant and married as a young teenager to Ray, Denise goes through life blindly idolizing her husband to the point of alienating her own children. When Ray suddenly dies, Denise is totally debilitated and very much alone, with no one to turn to. Even after she discovers Ray had been living a secret life full of lies and betrayal, and is shocked to find he has left her destitute, she irrationally clings to her obsessive submission to him.
Claire is Denise and Ray’s daughter. The complete opposite of her mother, we meet Claire as she is facing her empty nest crisis. Despite having had unloving and detached parents, Claire is determined to be nothing like them and devotes her life to her children. Her boys are her life – to the extreme we discover. Having lost sight of being anyone but a mother, Claire and her husband Sam divorce, but manage to remain friends.
Claire is going through the whole mid-life, identity crisis. What is she if not a mother first? Luckily, she is surrounded by a wonderful group of friends that encircle her with support and love, and try to encourage her to reignite a spark, and move on with her life.
I am very impressed with the writing style - going back and forth between the timelines and the story lines. Both Denise and Claire’s crises were sensitively, respectfully and realistically dealt with. The author kept your emotions engaged and never level. I found I was angry with Denise but pitied her at the same time and was left wondering about what would become of her. I cheered on Claire’s present, yet felt sorry for her unhappy past and was crazy happy for her future.
This is Me uniquely blends the reality of how some families truly malfunction and the consequences from it, and how tenacity and a gutsy resolve can overcome the damage of that dysfunction.
Highly recommend this stay-with-you long after you read it book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria for the read of Shari Low’s, This is Me.
The book focuses on the dysfunctional relationships in a family whose foundation is based on emotional control, and grounded in unstable and shifting sand.
Denise is one of those characters that I tried to like, but I couldn’t - even though I kept trying. Pregnant and married as a young teenager to Ray, Denise goes through life blindly idolizing her husband to the point of alienating her own children. When Ray suddenly dies, Denise is totally debilitated and very much alone, with no one to turn to. Even after she discovers Ray had been living a secret life full of lies and betrayal, and is shocked to find he has left her destitute, she irrationally clings to her obsessive submission to him.
Claire is Denise and Ray’s daughter. The complete opposite of her mother, we meet Claire as she is facing her empty nest crisis. Despite having had unloving and detached parents, Claire is determined to be nothing like them and devotes her life to her children. Her boys are her life – to the extreme we discover. Having lost sight of being anyone but a mother, Claire and her husband Sam divorce, but manage to remain friends.
Claire is going through the whole mid-life, identity crisis. What is she if not a mother first? Luckily, she is surrounded by a wonderful group of friends that encircle her with support and love, and try to encourage her to reignite a spark, and move on with her life.
I am very impressed with the writing style - going back and forth between the timelines and the story lines. Both Denise and Claire’s crises were sensitively, respectfully and realistically dealt with. The author kept your emotions engaged and never level. I found I was angry with Denise but pitied her at the same time and was left wondering about what would become of her. I cheered on Claire’s present, yet felt sorry for her unhappy past and was crazy happy for her future.
This is Me uniquely blends the reality of how some families truly malfunction and the consequences from it, and how tenacity and a gutsy resolve can overcome the damage of that dysfunction.
Highly recommend this stay-with-you long after you read it book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Aria for the read of Shari Low’s, This is Me.
March 4, 2019
I'm a big fan of Shari Low books and this one didn't disappoint. I just love the different POV's and different timelines to bring to the conclusion. Always makes me think of a Richard Curtis movie in my mind.
Strong female leads and satisfying ending although the very end bit did surprise me and I do not think that would have happened in real life!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.
Strong female leads and satisfying ending although the very end bit did surprise me and I do not think that would have happened in real life!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.
May 6, 2019
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I loved this story and I thought it was excellent!
I really enjoyed how this story was told through the different characters and dates all working together. The characters were excellent, very well developed and I loved their interaction.
I thought it was a really enjoyable read with both highs and lows and it is definately five stars from me for this story, very highly recommended and really enjoyable!
I loved this story and I thought it was excellent!
I really enjoyed how this story was told through the different characters and dates all working together. The characters were excellent, very well developed and I loved their interaction.
I thought it was a really enjoyable read with both highs and lows and it is definately five stars from me for this story, very highly recommended and really enjoyable!
May 6, 2019
This is the story of a mother and daughter, the different decisions they took for their families and the effect this had on their lives.
Denise is the mother and she is absolutely devoted to her husband Ray. She seemed so blinkered to his many faults which are evident to the reader. Quite often I was reading almost in disbelief. The couple had two children while they were very young and while they weren’t physically neglected, they certainly didn’t get the emotional attention they should have. For Denise, Ray always came first. After his sudden death she is devastated not only because of her loss, but because she begins to uncover a side of Ray she didn’t know and to realise just how little she has in life.
Claire is their daughter who, along with her brother Doug, over the years came to distance herself from her parents. She was determined to be the complete opposite to her parents and she put her children first to the detriment of her marriage. She was a totally clingy mother and although her sons clearly loved her, I wasn’t surprised that they both chose to leave home at relatively early ages. That kind of love must have been quite smothering.
I could to a certain extent understand Claire’s actions although when she had lovely Sam as a patient husband, I was thinking that she also was a bit blinkered as to what she had. As a mother myself, I just could not understand Denise, though did feel a bit sorry for her when Ray died and she had nothing left. Both women found themselves alone with, as they saw it, their reason and purpose for living now gone. Thankfully, Claire had some fantastic friends – three cheers for friends! I was so pleased that she had these caring people to help her and show her that she was important and valued as herself, not just as a mother.
It was great to see some characters from the author’s previous books appear although this is not a sequel. I am always pleased to see the irrepressible pair that is Val and Josie. I’m not sure if Shari Low has written a book entirely about them, I must check. But if not, it would be great to read their stories. They are always a great laugh. Despite some of the sad circumstances of this book, there is a lot of humour in this story as there usually is in a Shari Low book.
The story flicks back and forward in time telling Denise and Claire’s stories and moving in a very natural way from past to present, linking events and characters. We see two women adjusting to life events as many people have to. For me, this book was about recognising priorities but also taking time to value yourself. It was very thought provoking as I considered whether either of the women right in their decisions about their families? I think you can guess my response to that question! It perhaps took me a little longer to get into that some of the author’s previous books, took a while to get to know the characters but I am glad that I read on as it is quite a fascinating portrayal of the different choices women can make and the consequences these decisions can have.
Denise is the mother and she is absolutely devoted to her husband Ray. She seemed so blinkered to his many faults which are evident to the reader. Quite often I was reading almost in disbelief. The couple had two children while they were very young and while they weren’t physically neglected, they certainly didn’t get the emotional attention they should have. For Denise, Ray always came first. After his sudden death she is devastated not only because of her loss, but because she begins to uncover a side of Ray she didn’t know and to realise just how little she has in life.
Claire is their daughter who, along with her brother Doug, over the years came to distance herself from her parents. She was determined to be the complete opposite to her parents and she put her children first to the detriment of her marriage. She was a totally clingy mother and although her sons clearly loved her, I wasn’t surprised that they both chose to leave home at relatively early ages. That kind of love must have been quite smothering.
I could to a certain extent understand Claire’s actions although when she had lovely Sam as a patient husband, I was thinking that she also was a bit blinkered as to what she had. As a mother myself, I just could not understand Denise, though did feel a bit sorry for her when Ray died and she had nothing left. Both women found themselves alone with, as they saw it, their reason and purpose for living now gone. Thankfully, Claire had some fantastic friends – three cheers for friends! I was so pleased that she had these caring people to help her and show her that she was important and valued as herself, not just as a mother.
It was great to see some characters from the author’s previous books appear although this is not a sequel. I am always pleased to see the irrepressible pair that is Val and Josie. I’m not sure if Shari Low has written a book entirely about them, I must check. But if not, it would be great to read their stories. They are always a great laugh. Despite some of the sad circumstances of this book, there is a lot of humour in this story as there usually is in a Shari Low book.
The story flicks back and forward in time telling Denise and Claire’s stories and moving in a very natural way from past to present, linking events and characters. We see two women adjusting to life events as many people have to. For me, this book was about recognising priorities but also taking time to value yourself. It was very thought provoking as I considered whether either of the women right in their decisions about their families? I think you can guess my response to that question! It perhaps took me a little longer to get into that some of the author’s previous books, took a while to get to know the characters but I am glad that I read on as it is quite a fascinating portrayal of the different choices women can make and the consequences these decisions can have.
May 25, 2019
You guys – this story was freaking amazing! I must confess to a slight *pinches fingers* book hangover *sigh* Mostly because I’ve been mentally berating myself for not picking up a Shari Low book before. I mean, hulllo - what’s that all about? *snorts*
Also, quick question: do you hear accents when you read? *nods* YASSSS! *high five* Me too *grins*
So, to find out this book was set only 30-ish minutes (practically on my doorstep) from where I live had me happy dancing. Please note this is not a pretty sight *laughs*
Anyway, enough of my nonsense *wafts hand* On to the good stuff...
How best to describe Denise and Claire’s mother/daughter relationship? *taps chin* Umm, to quote the great Tommy Lee (Mötley Crüe drummer): it’s dysfunction junction *snorts*
Told in dual POV via past and present, prepare for an all-out assault on your emotions. My blood pressure was through the roof one minute (where I could’ve quite happily done time for a certain character. I shouldn’t really say that though, should I?), having a wee greet (cry) the next to almost wetting myself with laughter in the next breath.
Certain aspects of the storyline really hit home to me. My own sperm donor was very much a Ray. The only difference between my mum and Denise was she walked away when I was 6 weeks old. As my mum put it, “I wisnae looking after two babies. One was quite enough!” *smirks*
And, then there’s Grandad Fred. Fred caused such an explosion of love in my heart because this man reminded me so much of my own Papa. My Papa admitted he wasn’t much of a father, but he was the best grandfather anyone could wish for, just like Fred, right up until he passed when I was 19.
The out and out scene stealers in the story for me were Josie and Val. Especially Josie. You should see my kindle notes. They’re all Josie, lol. I wanna be her when I grow up. Although, some of my friends may say I’m already there at 40 #nofilter
In all seriousness though, (cliché alert 🚨) this is a story with heart and one which cements my belief that families are defined by love, not blood.
Also, quick question: do you hear accents when you read? *nods* YASSSS! *high five* Me too *grins*
So, to find out this book was set only 30-ish minutes (practically on my doorstep) from where I live had me happy dancing. Please note this is not a pretty sight *laughs*
Anyway, enough of my nonsense *wafts hand* On to the good stuff...
How best to describe Denise and Claire’s mother/daughter relationship? *taps chin* Umm, to quote the great Tommy Lee (Mötley Crüe drummer): it’s dysfunction junction *snorts*
Told in dual POV via past and present, prepare for an all-out assault on your emotions. My blood pressure was through the roof one minute (where I could’ve quite happily done time for a certain character. I shouldn’t really say that though, should I?), having a wee greet (cry) the next to almost wetting myself with laughter in the next breath.
Certain aspects of the storyline really hit home to me. My own sperm donor was very much a Ray. The only difference between my mum and Denise was she walked away when I was 6 weeks old. As my mum put it, “I wisnae looking after two babies. One was quite enough!” *smirks*
And, then there’s Grandad Fred. Fred caused such an explosion of love in my heart because this man reminded me so much of my own Papa. My Papa admitted he wasn’t much of a father, but he was the best grandfather anyone could wish for, just like Fred, right up until he passed when I was 19.
The out and out scene stealers in the story for me were Josie and Val. Especially Josie. You should see my kindle notes. They’re all Josie, lol. I wanna be her when I grow up. Although, some of my friends may say I’m already there at 40 #nofilter
In all seriousness though, (cliché alert 🚨) this is a story with heart and one which cements my belief that families are defined by love, not blood.
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