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One Split Second
The final goodbye is the hardest...
When a car carrying five teenagers home from a party crashes into a brick wall, the consequences are devastating - not just for the young people directly involved, but also for their families, their friends and the wider community.
No one escapes unscathed, but some are more deeply scarred than others and one of the group will not survive. In their grief and confusion, those left behind question who was to blame for the accident, and what price they will pay.
A haunting and emotionally affecting novel of love and loyalty, grief and forgiveness.
When a car carrying five teenagers home from a party crashes into a brick wall, the consequences are devastating - not just for the young people directly involved, but also for their families, their friends and the wider community.
No one escapes unscathed, but some are more deeply scarred than others and one of the group will not survive. In their grief and confusion, those left behind question who was to blame for the accident, and what price they will pay.
A haunting and emotionally affecting novel of love and loyalty, grief and forgiveness.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published June 4, 2020
113 people are currently reading
1552 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 319 reviews
April 16, 2020
4+
A teenage party, a few drinks and lots of fun, later a bad car accident and then late night phone calls- every parents nightmare. Waiting, waiting and praying for good news. Some get the news they wished so hard for, others don’t but there will be slow recovery and for two sets of parents it’s a longer waiting game and more prayers for life. One doesn’t make it. This is the scenario for this emotionally charged and very well written book. It is told in alternating perspectives by the driver, passengers and parents.
Although the characters are really well depicted, I was initially a bit overwhelmed by the number but once I had established who was who, it’s a great read. It captures the details of the accident extremely well through some flashbacks and police interviews and looks at the devastating impact on all those involved. We see the statistics regarding young drivers, we read or hear the news about crashes involving teenagers, we say how terrible, see the shrines at the side of the road but we move on. This book personalises the tragedy and makes you look more deeply and see how their lives are altered. The events of the night are revealed a bit at a time which I really like as you become invested in seeking the truth as it unfolds. I like how the aftermath is like a fly on the wall snapshot of each family’s home and how each of them is affected differently. The ICU is especially moving and there are brave decisions made. All of them suffer varying degrees of grief and pain, at times it is heartbreaking but it is compulsive reading. I like how after a while healing comes via a very dramatic and moving Restorative Justice meeting although the aftermath is not what you might expect after all the tension.
Overall, a very thought provoking and emotional read but which shows that after the darkest of dark days that there is some light. The stand out characters for me are Mo from the teenagers as he is true and loyal and Fran from the parents whose deep emotions you can feel and I admire how she came to forgiveness.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Atlantic Books for the ARC.
A teenage party, a few drinks and lots of fun, later a bad car accident and then late night phone calls- every parents nightmare. Waiting, waiting and praying for good news. Some get the news they wished so hard for, others don’t but there will be slow recovery and for two sets of parents it’s a longer waiting game and more prayers for life. One doesn’t make it. This is the scenario for this emotionally charged and very well written book. It is told in alternating perspectives by the driver, passengers and parents.
Although the characters are really well depicted, I was initially a bit overwhelmed by the number but once I had established who was who, it’s a great read. It captures the details of the accident extremely well through some flashbacks and police interviews and looks at the devastating impact on all those involved. We see the statistics regarding young drivers, we read or hear the news about crashes involving teenagers, we say how terrible, see the shrines at the side of the road but we move on. This book personalises the tragedy and makes you look more deeply and see how their lives are altered. The events of the night are revealed a bit at a time which I really like as you become invested in seeking the truth as it unfolds. I like how the aftermath is like a fly on the wall snapshot of each family’s home and how each of them is affected differently. The ICU is especially moving and there are brave decisions made. All of them suffer varying degrees of grief and pain, at times it is heartbreaking but it is compulsive reading. I like how after a while healing comes via a very dramatic and moving Restorative Justice meeting although the aftermath is not what you might expect after all the tension.
Overall, a very thought provoking and emotional read but which shows that after the darkest of dark days that there is some light. The stand out characters for me are Mo from the teenagers as he is true and loyal and Fran from the parents whose deep emotions you can feel and I admire how she came to forgiveness.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Atlantic Books for the ARC.
September 30, 2020
A party a car crash plus a few drinks 9 lives left shattered one dies.
A group of friends who have known each other since school decide to go to a party & the car carrers into a wall. This is a heartbreaking read which puts friendships to the test & will fracture the marriages of one family.
When the news spreads through to the media all hell breaks loose & the family's of the 9 friends wait for their child in hospital to either bed dead or they survive each parent goes in one by one not knowing but, when they know its just their joyful relief that their child wasn't the one they had to bury.
As the prose goes further into the end its telling the story of hate at first then forgiveness & how each person deals with it, one is sent to do time for the accident as they were drinking & the guilt they felt after.
I loved this book by Caroline Bond it was very well written & she showed the emotions by each character it flowed well & you could feel the tension building each chapter i felt so much emotion while reading this book as its happening with young people today its about the choices you make & the consequences afterwards.
A group of friends who have known each other since school decide to go to a party & the car carrers into a wall. This is a heartbreaking read which puts friendships to the test & will fracture the marriages of one family.
When the news spreads through to the media all hell breaks loose & the family's of the 9 friends wait for their child in hospital to either bed dead or they survive each parent goes in one by one not knowing but, when they know its just their joyful relief that their child wasn't the one they had to bury.
As the prose goes further into the end its telling the story of hate at first then forgiveness & how each person deals with it, one is sent to do time for the accident as they were drinking & the guilt they felt after.
I loved this book by Caroline Bond it was very well written & she showed the emotions by each character it flowed well & you could feel the tension building each chapter i felt so much emotion while reading this book as its happening with young people today its about the choices you make & the consequences afterwards.
March 29, 2020
A group of close friends that have known each other since school go to a party, on their way home their car crashes into a wall. When the news spread of the accident, the teenagers parents are informed and are waiting anxiously at the hospital for news of their loved one’s. Their lives will never be the same again as one teenager does not make it.
As the police investigate the accident, the families are hoping to find out what caused it. which will affect their previous close relationships.
The story goes back to 20 months before the accident, where we see how close their friendships were, as they plan their prom, all dressed up and excited for the future.
This book didn’t just steal my heart, it literally grabbed it and wrenched it out of my body. At times I couldn’t see the words as the tears streamed down my cheeks - it is an emotional rollercoaster of a ride!!
This book felt very lifelike, with believable characters. The next time I see flowers at the roadside it will make me think of the poor families of the deceased.
A must read book, have you’re tissues close by. This will stay in my thoughts for a long time.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
As the police investigate the accident, the families are hoping to find out what caused it. which will affect their previous close relationships.
The story goes back to 20 months before the accident, where we see how close their friendships were, as they plan their prom, all dressed up and excited for the future.
This book didn’t just steal my heart, it literally grabbed it and wrenched it out of my body. At times I couldn’t see the words as the tears streamed down my cheeks - it is an emotional rollercoaster of a ride!!
This book felt very lifelike, with believable characters. The next time I see flowers at the roadside it will make me think of the poor families of the deceased.
A must read book, have you’re tissues close by. This will stay in my thoughts for a long time.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
January 28, 2022
I've not read a book such as this before. A very tight knit group of youngsters, whose families were very close from childhood, rocked by a tragic and fatal car accident.
I didn't relate to the families having been friends since pre school (this doesn't mean it doesn't happen), but it was interesting to see the dynamics of the accused, and that of the deceased.
Secrets abound in relation to the kids relationships, and a lot of lies surrounding these. There were a lot of to-ing and fro-ing and emotive moments as after effects which was to be expected, but I did not feel emotionally attached to any of them.
The mother of the girl who died was seeking retribution, but this turned around a little neatly. The father of the accused was cold, and was never really there for his son, apart from monetary support for legal representation.
Themes of organ donation rounded this off to come full circle and a tiny twist at the end didn't save it for me.
I found it interesting at the end in the acknowledgments that the author mentioned by name who she would recommend as behind the scenes publishing and editing staff, I know that lots of aspiring writers are desperate to publish, that these people may be contacted directly with all manner of manuscripts. Such was the interest in this book that this was my take away!
The narrator was very robotic, peppering words at a rapid fire stilted way.
I didn't relate to the families having been friends since pre school (this doesn't mean it doesn't happen), but it was interesting to see the dynamics of the accused, and that of the deceased.
Secrets abound in relation to the kids relationships, and a lot of lies surrounding these. There were a lot of to-ing and fro-ing and emotive moments as after effects which was to be expected, but I did not feel emotionally attached to any of them.
The mother of the girl who died was seeking retribution, but this turned around a little neatly. The father of the accused was cold, and was never really there for his son, apart from monetary support for legal representation.
Themes of organ donation rounded this off to come full circle and a tiny twist at the end didn't save it for me.
I found it interesting at the end in the acknowledgments that the author mentioned by name who she would recommend as behind the scenes publishing and editing staff, I know that lots of aspiring writers are desperate to publish, that these people may be contacted directly with all manner of manuscripts. Such was the interest in this book that this was my take away!
The narrator was very robotic, peppering words at a rapid fire stilted way.
July 26, 2021
Great book from a great new author!!
I'm definitely going to read books by this author again 😃
This book comes with TW; RTA'S, loss, grief, organ donation.
The book is written in multiple p.o.v. This enhanced the quality of the book for me because it made me think of all of the characters perspectives and experiences not just the one.
It's multifaceted in that it deals with many sensitive issues and does so with due care and diligence.
The main protagonists are Harry, Fran and Marcus.
They are tied in to each others lives, until one day everything changes. They have to learn how to make up, or to see if they even can.
This was a summer read which got serious very quickly though definitely didn't disappoint
I'm definitely going to read books by this author again 😃
This book comes with TW; RTA'S, loss, grief, organ donation.
The book is written in multiple p.o.v. This enhanced the quality of the book for me because it made me think of all of the characters perspectives and experiences not just the one.
It's multifaceted in that it deals with many sensitive issues and does so with due care and diligence.
The main protagonists are Harry, Fran and Marcus.
They are tied in to each others lives, until one day everything changes. They have to learn how to make up, or to see if they even can.
This was a summer read which got serious very quickly though definitely didn't disappoint
June 6, 2020
This book did not disappoint. It engaged me on every level and made me think about love, forgiveness, retribution, punishment, grief and loss. There are many more emotions I felt intensely as I read this novel. It is such an in-depth and intuitive insight into what makes us human and I was completely transported into the lives of the teenagers and families coping with the aftermath of what tragedies can play out as the result of One Split Second.
Caroline Bond's writing is sensitive, beautiful and utterly compelling. I lived with the families. I felt their every emotion, their every dilemma, their every heartbreak and their every joy.
As a parent myself it was an incredibly moving situation and one which no parent ever wants to face. Yet it wasn't mawkish or morbid. It was a fascinating exploration of the human mind and the consequences of our actions.
I loved all of the characters, even Harry's Dad who is not particularly likeable.
What happens after the car carrying a group of teenage friends, back from a party, crashes into a wall on the ring road, so close to home, makes you question what you would do, how you would react and who you would blame.
There are different consequences for all of the occupants of the car and the families' reactions all vary. All are touching, real and move the story forward in a way that makes you want to reach out and hug the entire cast, or turn the clock back just so that these people can live a different life.
What transpires towards the end of the story though is uplifting and made my heart fit to burst, with love and pride for the enormity of compassion bestowed upon individuals who others might not have the ability to forgive.
I loved the inclusion of a witness at the beginning of the story and how we return to him as the close. Such a perfect opening and a perfect ending. Clever and wise and oh how I wish I could lay claim to such writing talent!
For me it was an enlightening journey through the processes of grief and how we can, if the right things happen and the right people are with us, learn to rebuild lives without ever forgetting what went before.
This is the sort of book I would buy for friends as I love and enjoy nothing more than a profound look at human emotions. The reader can grow just by engaging with the story.
In my opinion, undoubtedly a triumph of a book.
Caroline Bond's writing is sensitive, beautiful and utterly compelling. I lived with the families. I felt their every emotion, their every dilemma, their every heartbreak and their every joy.
As a parent myself it was an incredibly moving situation and one which no parent ever wants to face. Yet it wasn't mawkish or morbid. It was a fascinating exploration of the human mind and the consequences of our actions.
I loved all of the characters, even Harry's Dad who is not particularly likeable.
What happens after the car carrying a group of teenage friends, back from a party, crashes into a wall on the ring road, so close to home, makes you question what you would do, how you would react and who you would blame.
There are different consequences for all of the occupants of the car and the families' reactions all vary. All are touching, real and move the story forward in a way that makes you want to reach out and hug the entire cast, or turn the clock back just so that these people can live a different life.
What transpires towards the end of the story though is uplifting and made my heart fit to burst, with love and pride for the enormity of compassion bestowed upon individuals who others might not have the ability to forgive.
I loved the inclusion of a witness at the beginning of the story and how we return to him as the close. Such a perfect opening and a perfect ending. Clever and wise and oh how I wish I could lay claim to such writing talent!
For me it was an enlightening journey through the processes of grief and how we can, if the right things happen and the right people are with us, learn to rebuild lives without ever forgetting what went before.
This is the sort of book I would buy for friends as I love and enjoy nothing more than a profound look at human emotions. The reader can grow just by engaging with the story.
In my opinion, undoubtedly a triumph of a book.
August 12, 2020
Oh my goodness, to read this as a parent of young adult drivers is truly nightmarish!
A teenage party, alcohol, an inexperienced driver and then a devastating accident! What follows is the middle of the night calls and police knocks.
Bond creates sharp, moving, intense feelings for the reader. I found myself speed reading to learn the outcomes. The news is varied and the reactions even more so. There is a slow recovery, a waiting game and indescribable decisions. The scenario is emotionally intense and the actions of some divisive, incorrigible, heartbreaking and reputation saving. These behaviours put me in the shoes of the characters and I was torn between the morally just and the what if it was my child?
An incredibly well-written book. The alternating perspectives by the driver, passengers and parents is captivating. Judgement is so much easier from the sidelines! Super quick read!
A teenage party, alcohol, an inexperienced driver and then a devastating accident! What follows is the middle of the night calls and police knocks.
Bond creates sharp, moving, intense feelings for the reader. I found myself speed reading to learn the outcomes. The news is varied and the reactions even more so. There is a slow recovery, a waiting game and indescribable decisions. The scenario is emotionally intense and the actions of some divisive, incorrigible, heartbreaking and reputation saving. These behaviours put me in the shoes of the characters and I was torn between the morally just and the what if it was my child?
An incredibly well-written book. The alternating perspectives by the driver, passengers and parents is captivating. Judgement is so much easier from the sidelines! Super quick read!
May 8, 2021
I purchased this book a few weeks ago as I was taken not only by the cover but the premise.
I actually ended up listening to this on audio.
First off I found the writing too much in description and not enough dialogue but that is my preference so don’t let that put you off.
What must it be like to live with the fact that you were the driver of the car and you killed or injured your friends?
You were out having a good time and BANG it’s all over.
This is what happens to this young man.
Are there mitigating circumstances?
Can he remember what happened?
What’s the truth, what’s the lies.
I didn’t get drawn into this book until around halfway. Then I became really invested in the events of the plot and the way those involved (family and friends) dealt with it.
Well worth a read I’d say.
I actually ended up listening to this on audio.
First off I found the writing too much in description and not enough dialogue but that is my preference so don’t let that put you off.
What must it be like to live with the fact that you were the driver of the car and you killed or injured your friends?
You were out having a good time and BANG it’s all over.
This is what happens to this young man.
Are there mitigating circumstances?
Can he remember what happened?
What’s the truth, what’s the lies.
I didn’t get drawn into this book until around halfway. Then I became really invested in the events of the plot and the way those involved (family and friends) dealt with it.
Well worth a read I’d say.
June 2, 2020
As we all know, all actions have consequences and the rippling effects of these actions can travel far and wide and way beyond the immediate future. They can not only affect the life of the person responsible for either a bad decision or foolish behaviour but the lives of those within that social circle too. Such is the premise for One Split Second.
A close knit group of adolescents on the cusp of adulthood are celebrating prom night when their lives are all irrevocably changed in a split second following a car crash. One split second is all it takes to alter their lives trajectories; one bad decision that has repercussions for all five,including their families. Families who are connected to each other by virtue of their children’s friendships suddenly find their allegiances blown apart by one moment of recklessness.
The opening for this novel brilliantly sets the scene for what will follow and is quite sobering whilst making you question how it will fit into the narrative. Definitely the first paragraphs are the hook that reels you in, I wanted to discover more and I enjoyed how we witness the crash from multiple angles including that of an eye witness. The tension created as news spreads around the neighbourhood like wildfire is pitched just right with every parent literally holding their breath until they know for sure their child is safe. I can’t begin to imagine the worry and the anguish those moments must bring forth and then the unashamedly selfish sigh of relief that your worst nightmare hasn’t become reality. The author has captured these feelings beautifully.
This is a thought provoking novel about loss and grief and forgiveness which I found compelling. Never mawkish or sentimental in any way (which it so easily could have been) the author has explored in detail the effects this crash has on everyone involved, scrutinising and cataloguing all the range of emotions these individuals experience and imagining the scenario from different perspectives. Of course there are distressing scenes but it isn’t the tearjerker that I’d been expecting. The writing packs a powerful punch in the sense that it forces you to wonder how you may cope if faced with a similar situation and it is the type of incident that unfortunately is based in reality. Reading this took me back to an incident reminiscent of the some of the scenes played out here and many years later I can still remember that the grief experienced by one person in particular was all consuming and life changing. No one knows how any one person will react to the loss of a loved one but the author has explored in depth every aspect of grief and its impact on individuals, parents, siblings and marriages. The fragility of life,the anger, the sadness and the hopelessness and the simple fact life goes on are all evident in these pages and described with such empathy.
I loved the contrasts in reactions and subsequent behaviours of the adolescents and the parents in the aftermath of the crash. Some are more affected than others and Fran’s perspective in particular is one of the more compelling parts of this novel as is Harry’s. The way they process the events and repercussions of that night prove that this is an experience unique to the individual and that there is no right or wrong way to act. Interestingly too is how other acquaintances/friends interact with these people following the car crash. Who to blame and how they should be punished is a central question that the author seeks to answer but one that will hopefully provoke heated debate, making it a perfect choice for any book club. Is forgiveness possible in these circumstances? Has justice been served or is a lifetime of guilt punishment enough?? I guess that’s up to the individual reader to decide and they are questions that you will probably still be pondering long after the last word has been read.
Fran and Harry are my favourite characters for very different reasons which I won’t divulge in case it reveals too much of the plot line. Suffice to say all characters emerge as changed people by the end, some hopefully for the better. I loved Mo for his gentlemanly attitude towards Tish and his general respectful, polite demeanour but I couldn’t stand Dom for his bullish insensitive behaviour throughout making him unsuitable fatherly material.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this novel if you enjoy a well considered approach to a highly emotive subject without the writing being overly dramatic and sentimental. My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.
A close knit group of adolescents on the cusp of adulthood are celebrating prom night when their lives are all irrevocably changed in a split second following a car crash. One split second is all it takes to alter their lives trajectories; one bad decision that has repercussions for all five,including their families. Families who are connected to each other by virtue of their children’s friendships suddenly find their allegiances blown apart by one moment of recklessness.
The opening for this novel brilliantly sets the scene for what will follow and is quite sobering whilst making you question how it will fit into the narrative. Definitely the first paragraphs are the hook that reels you in, I wanted to discover more and I enjoyed how we witness the crash from multiple angles including that of an eye witness. The tension created as news spreads around the neighbourhood like wildfire is pitched just right with every parent literally holding their breath until they know for sure their child is safe. I can’t begin to imagine the worry and the anguish those moments must bring forth and then the unashamedly selfish sigh of relief that your worst nightmare hasn’t become reality. The author has captured these feelings beautifully.
This is a thought provoking novel about loss and grief and forgiveness which I found compelling. Never mawkish or sentimental in any way (which it so easily could have been) the author has explored in detail the effects this crash has on everyone involved, scrutinising and cataloguing all the range of emotions these individuals experience and imagining the scenario from different perspectives. Of course there are distressing scenes but it isn’t the tearjerker that I’d been expecting. The writing packs a powerful punch in the sense that it forces you to wonder how you may cope if faced with a similar situation and it is the type of incident that unfortunately is based in reality. Reading this took me back to an incident reminiscent of the some of the scenes played out here and many years later I can still remember that the grief experienced by one person in particular was all consuming and life changing. No one knows how any one person will react to the loss of a loved one but the author has explored in depth every aspect of grief and its impact on individuals, parents, siblings and marriages. The fragility of life,the anger, the sadness and the hopelessness and the simple fact life goes on are all evident in these pages and described with such empathy.
I loved the contrasts in reactions and subsequent behaviours of the adolescents and the parents in the aftermath of the crash. Some are more affected than others and Fran’s perspective in particular is one of the more compelling parts of this novel as is Harry’s. The way they process the events and repercussions of that night prove that this is an experience unique to the individual and that there is no right or wrong way to act. Interestingly too is how other acquaintances/friends interact with these people following the car crash. Who to blame and how they should be punished is a central question that the author seeks to answer but one that will hopefully provoke heated debate, making it a perfect choice for any book club. Is forgiveness possible in these circumstances? Has justice been served or is a lifetime of guilt punishment enough?? I guess that’s up to the individual reader to decide and they are questions that you will probably still be pondering long after the last word has been read.
Fran and Harry are my favourite characters for very different reasons which I won’t divulge in case it reveals too much of the plot line. Suffice to say all characters emerge as changed people by the end, some hopefully for the better. I loved Mo for his gentlemanly attitude towards Tish and his general respectful, polite demeanour but I couldn’t stand Dom for his bullish insensitive behaviour throughout making him unsuitable fatherly material.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this novel if you enjoy a well considered approach to a highly emotive subject without the writing being overly dramatic and sentimental. My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.
June 15, 2020
Brilliant. Heartbreaking. Hopeful. Beautiful.
June 9, 2020
I applaud the depth and sensitivity of Caroline's writing. She took me into the hearts and minds of virtually everyone in this book.
When tragedy strikes, none of us know how we will react or behave.
Will we need to blame someone?
Will we find out things we are better off not knowing?
These are the questions that are answered as we explore the relationships and changing dynamics after a crash which kills a teenager.
Everyone has a piece of the jigsaw to build the picture of what happened and why, but who will offer up their part?
Can anyone move on until the picture is complete?
I really couldn't put this down, and waited impatiently for the next stave as I was reading via Pigeonhole. I'm now off to read more from Caroline Bond.
When tragedy strikes, none of us know how we will react or behave.
Will we need to blame someone?
Will we find out things we are better off not knowing?
These are the questions that are answered as we explore the relationships and changing dynamics after a crash which kills a teenager.
Everyone has a piece of the jigsaw to build the picture of what happened and why, but who will offer up their part?
Can anyone move on until the picture is complete?
I really couldn't put this down, and waited impatiently for the next stave as I was reading via Pigeonhole. I'm now off to read more from Caroline Bond.
June 9, 2020
I read this with Pigeonhole, a stave a day over 10 days. What can I say? A real masterpiece that examines raw human feelings and relationships in a realistic, though sometimes very raw, way! We get to learn about how a tragic accident can impact upon so many lives in so many different ways. I have loved every single part of this book and the ending brought tears to my eyes. It will stay with me for a long time! I thoroughly recommend it! Thanks so much Pigeon and Caroline for allowing me to read it!
June 9, 2020
What an absolutely brilliant and amazing rollercoaster of a ride this book is. Heartbreaking then heartwarming. Highly recommend
August 2, 2020
One Split Second is the kind of novel that pulls you in and offers an opportunity to view a tragedy from multiple perspectives. It’s not an easy novel to read, and as a parent of three teenagers, two of which are in the age range of the characters within this book, it was at times quite harrowing. And yet, I was utterly captivated by the story, the characters, and the range of issues and emotions that were examined throughout.
Ultimately, this is a novel about the consequences of dangerous driving: driving drunk, speeding, driving with distraction. Where it differs to other novels I’ve read that deal with this, is in the way it unfolds. The accident is at the beginning, and it’s everything that comes after that forms the story, and the widespread effects on the survivors and their families are all looked at in turn. Grief is examined, guilt, anger, restorative justice; this is on the personal level. Then there is the actual investigation and the way in which this impacts all involved.
One thing that really stood out for me in terms of getting my thoughts churning was related directly to the age that these children were. They were all eighteen years old, so on the one hand, they’re the children of their parents, but in actuality, they are adults in society. It was so difficult for the parents of the adults/children involved in the accident, and I felt such a kinship with each of them. They were compelled to step in and protect their children, but there were many things they didn’t know, resulting in this growing awareness that their children were no longer children but adults with separate lives, secrets even, and some of these secrets were things they really didn’t want their parents to know. They also had wishes of their own, and feelings of responsibility that needed to be dealt with and acknowledged, rather than ‘fixed’ by their parents.
Then there was another aspect, where the one person who died in the accident was thereafter considered a teenager, tragically killed too young, right on the cusp of beginning university and her adult life. And yet, the person who was driving the vehicle at the time of the accident and facing charges was a fully grown man, who should have known better, and was old enough to face his consequences. But both of these young adults were the same age, eighteen, and both on the cusp of beginning university, their adult lives, with so much ahead of them. I found the distinction interesting, her victim status lowering her perceived age, his perpetrator status inflating his, like a scale that was weighted differently without any of us ever being conscious of making it so. This was just one of many threads that had me thinking long and hard whilst reading this novel.
This is a novel that doesn’t hold back, it’s honest, graphic at times, so be prepared for some harrowing scenes that may affect you quite a bit, particularly if you’re a parent of teenagers. But it’s so good, and the structure, the way in which so many perspectives were offered, was just brilliant for this type of story. There is real meaning and depth of feeling within this novel, it’s very much a journey through the stages of loss, grief, retribution, and reconciliation. It’s not all grim, and it ends with an uplifting promise.
Thanks is extended to Allen & Unwin for providing me with a copy of One Split Second for review.
Ultimately, this is a novel about the consequences of dangerous driving: driving drunk, speeding, driving with distraction. Where it differs to other novels I’ve read that deal with this, is in the way it unfolds. The accident is at the beginning, and it’s everything that comes after that forms the story, and the widespread effects on the survivors and their families are all looked at in turn. Grief is examined, guilt, anger, restorative justice; this is on the personal level. Then there is the actual investigation and the way in which this impacts all involved.
One thing that really stood out for me in terms of getting my thoughts churning was related directly to the age that these children were. They were all eighteen years old, so on the one hand, they’re the children of their parents, but in actuality, they are adults in society. It was so difficult for the parents of the adults/children involved in the accident, and I felt such a kinship with each of them. They were compelled to step in and protect their children, but there were many things they didn’t know, resulting in this growing awareness that their children were no longer children but adults with separate lives, secrets even, and some of these secrets were things they really didn’t want their parents to know. They also had wishes of their own, and feelings of responsibility that needed to be dealt with and acknowledged, rather than ‘fixed’ by their parents.
Then there was another aspect, where the one person who died in the accident was thereafter considered a teenager, tragically killed too young, right on the cusp of beginning university and her adult life. And yet, the person who was driving the vehicle at the time of the accident and facing charges was a fully grown man, who should have known better, and was old enough to face his consequences. But both of these young adults were the same age, eighteen, and both on the cusp of beginning university, their adult lives, with so much ahead of them. I found the distinction interesting, her victim status lowering her perceived age, his perpetrator status inflating his, like a scale that was weighted differently without any of us ever being conscious of making it so. This was just one of many threads that had me thinking long and hard whilst reading this novel.
This is a novel that doesn’t hold back, it’s honest, graphic at times, so be prepared for some harrowing scenes that may affect you quite a bit, particularly if you’re a parent of teenagers. But it’s so good, and the structure, the way in which so many perspectives were offered, was just brilliant for this type of story. There is real meaning and depth of feeling within this novel, it’s very much a journey through the stages of loss, grief, retribution, and reconciliation. It’s not all grim, and it ends with an uplifting promise.
Thanks is extended to Allen & Unwin for providing me with a copy of One Split Second for review.
June 9, 2020
Where to even begin with this?! A powerful, emotionally charged book that was so brilliantly written that you literally felt the emotions coming off the pages!
Caroline takes you on a journey through the devastating aftermath of an accident that rips through not only the characters involved in the accident, but their families and a few others that were directly impacted by the accident.
Caroline walks you through the journey of guilt, grief, sadness, anger, shame and forgiveness that the characters go through as they come to terms with the loss of a loved one!
It was so well written that you felt yourself feeling each character's emotions as you read about them. It was so heartbreaking at times that it bought tears to my eyes.
I honestly can't speak highly enough of this book! If you read any books this year, make this one of them! It's definitely become one of my favourite books of the year!
Thank you to Pigeonhole and Caroline Bond for the chance to read this incredible book!
Caroline takes you on a journey through the devastating aftermath of an accident that rips through not only the characters involved in the accident, but their families and a few others that were directly impacted by the accident.
Caroline walks you through the journey of guilt, grief, sadness, anger, shame and forgiveness that the characters go through as they come to terms with the loss of a loved one!
It was so well written that you felt yourself feeling each character's emotions as you read about them. It was so heartbreaking at times that it bought tears to my eyes.
I honestly can't speak highly enough of this book! If you read any books this year, make this one of them! It's definitely become one of my favourite books of the year!
Thank you to Pigeonhole and Caroline Bond for the chance to read this incredible book!
June 9, 2020
A wonderfully written and poignant story of friendship, family, tragedy and grief. This book moved me to tears on several occasions and this is not easy to do. I found myself completely emotionally involved in the story and totally invested in the characters.
A sensitively written, thought provoking book that it thoroughly recommend!I
A sensitively written, thought provoking book that it thoroughly recommend!I
March 21, 2025
Five teenage friends. It’s prom night, they’re all dressed up, ready to go party and drink and blow off steam. Things happen, tempers flare, they’re all in Harry’s car, and next thing you know he’s crashed his car headlong into a brick wall, badly injuring most of them. And everyone wants to know why, what led to this. But Harry’s not talking. A really good book.
June 20, 2020
I have loved Caroline Bond's other books, and with One Split Second she has done it again! Believable and nuanced, this is the story of a split second between normality and tragedy, and of what stems from that moment in the lives of those involved, their families and others. It is something that could happen to any of us - a parent's nightmare. Bond describes the most desperate moments with empathy and insight. I found the hospital scenes especially haunting, as well as the young character who is facing prison. Very highly recommended.
June 4, 2020
There is a lot of food for thought between the covers of this novel; it certainly made me re-think a few things.
On their way home from a party, five young adults are involved in a horrific crash. This is the story of the fallout which follows, and how it affects not only the occupants but also their families in the wider community.
A thoughtful and considered story, this one ate me up. Showing both sides of the picture following a car accident, it's hard to decide who to sympathise with the most. Is it the injured or their families? Caroline Bond has covered every eventuality and emotion and, although there is no need to choose 'sides', my empathy swung first one way, then the other - and back again, several times. This is very skilfully crafted; I became engrossed very quickly and the characterisation is terrific. I could easily imagine each and every one and, in several cases, compare them to those I know! A very different kind of tale, but an excellent one, beautifully written and all-encompassing. I had no idea where it was going or even what the ending would be, but I think the author worked it out perfectly. I wouldn't change a single thing. Emotionally packed and strangely uplifting, this is one I would recommend, especially to everyone seeking that something different in a book. I'm delighted to give One Split Second 4.5*.
On their way home from a party, five young adults are involved in a horrific crash. This is the story of the fallout which follows, and how it affects not only the occupants but also their families in the wider community.
A thoughtful and considered story, this one ate me up. Showing both sides of the picture following a car accident, it's hard to decide who to sympathise with the most. Is it the injured or their families? Caroline Bond has covered every eventuality and emotion and, although there is no need to choose 'sides', my empathy swung first one way, then the other - and back again, several times. This is very skilfully crafted; I became engrossed very quickly and the characterisation is terrific. I could easily imagine each and every one and, in several cases, compare them to those I know! A very different kind of tale, but an excellent one, beautifully written and all-encompassing. I had no idea where it was going or even what the ending would be, but I think the author worked it out perfectly. I wouldn't change a single thing. Emotionally packed and strangely uplifting, this is one I would recommend, especially to everyone seeking that something different in a book. I'm delighted to give One Split Second 4.5*.
September 20, 2021
This was a brilliant book and my 2nd one by someone who is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. Well written and thought provoking it takes you on an emotional journey following a car accident. The characters lives are all interwoven and you get to see the different impact this has on each of them.
A definite 5-Stars and a book that I didn't want to end.
A definite 5-Stars and a book that I didn't want to end.
December 7, 2022
Do not read this book if you're feeling down. A group of teenagers are involved in a car crash on their way home from a party with devastating consequences.
It's well written, but quite predictable and I was expecting something more- - a twist or revelation towards the end - more than I got anyway.
3.5 stars.
It's well written, but quite predictable and I was expecting something more- - a twist or revelation towards the end - more than I got anyway.
3.5 stars.
June 15, 2020
Caroline Bond is fast becoming one of my new favourite authors. I read The Forgotten Sister and I was hooked, so was excited to learn about her new publication One Split Second, and even more excited to given the opportunity to read an advanced review copy in staves via the Pigeonhole!
This was a wonderful read I wasn't disappointed -what a cracker of a book! The story centres around a group of five teenagers who are about to leave high school and start new paths on journeys to work or university. Coming home one night after a party, there is a dreadful accident which alters the course of everyone's lives within the group, and also their families, forever.
This was an intensely emotional book that was sometimes difficult to read. It was exceptionally well written with an excellent and totally believable plot. Although initially, I found the prospect of getting to know five different families of characters rather daunting, I was soon able to cope and it wasn't long before I was at ease with them. Each was brilliantly drawn by Caroline Bond - distinct, full of depth and with their own idiosyncrasies.
In this study of human emotion, the reactions of each individual involved was completely different, and this was perfectly portrayed. I wanted to send reassurances to everyone, including Harry’s father, who wasn't the most personable character in the story.
The ending was brilliant as it brought the story full circle. This was an absolute pleasure to read and even if the plot had been less stimulating I would have devoured these pages with equal gusto and enthusiasm. One Split Second is a brilliantly executed book in every aspect and if family dramas give you a buzz then this one would be a perfect choice. I’ll certainly be looking out for more from Caroline Bond!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request, from Atlantic Books/ Corvus via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion. Thank you also to Pigeonhole and Caroline Bond for the opportunity to read this book!
This was a wonderful read I wasn't disappointed -what a cracker of a book! The story centres around a group of five teenagers who are about to leave high school and start new paths on journeys to work or university. Coming home one night after a party, there is a dreadful accident which alters the course of everyone's lives within the group, and also their families, forever.
This was an intensely emotional book that was sometimes difficult to read. It was exceptionally well written with an excellent and totally believable plot. Although initially, I found the prospect of getting to know five different families of characters rather daunting, I was soon able to cope and it wasn't long before I was at ease with them. Each was brilliantly drawn by Caroline Bond - distinct, full of depth and with their own idiosyncrasies.
In this study of human emotion, the reactions of each individual involved was completely different, and this was perfectly portrayed. I wanted to send reassurances to everyone, including Harry’s father, who wasn't the most personable character in the story.
The ending was brilliant as it brought the story full circle. This was an absolute pleasure to read and even if the plot had been less stimulating I would have devoured these pages with equal gusto and enthusiasm. One Split Second is a brilliantly executed book in every aspect and if family dramas give you a buzz then this one would be a perfect choice. I’ll certainly be looking out for more from Caroline Bond!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request, from Atlantic Books/ Corvus via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion. Thank you also to Pigeonhole and Caroline Bond for the opportunity to read this book!
August 7, 2020
A group of close friends out for a fun night out....how it can all change in "one split second".
A fetal accident quickly changes this.
Really shows how it affected so many people in different ways.
It was a brilliant book. A real rollercoaster of emotions.
Fran and marcus...oh I felt so bad for how they were both feeling. I can only imagine how hard it must of been for them.
And Harry....i felt his pain.
It really captures every single emotion from all involved.
It was written so well, really pulls you in. I've given four stars instead of five as I felt some parts dragged a little, but i did have time away around half way through the book, so this could be why.
Still I do highly recommend it.
A fetal accident quickly changes this.
Really shows how it affected so many people in different ways.
It was a brilliant book. A real rollercoaster of emotions.
Fran and marcus...oh I felt so bad for how they were both feeling. I can only imagine how hard it must of been for them.
And Harry....i felt his pain.
It really captures every single emotion from all involved.
It was written so well, really pulls you in. I've given four stars instead of five as I felt some parts dragged a little, but i did have time away around half way through the book, so this could be why.
Still I do highly recommend it.
June 9, 2020
Oh this book! Beautiful yet heartbreaking.
It starts "Thirty Two Days after the accident", with a young person being wheeled out of intensive care on their final journey. Right in at the emotional deep-end we go.
We then go back to an accident where a group of young friends crash a car into a wall. The ensuing events are a real masterpiece in exploring character emotions and responses to that fateful event. There are multiple perspectives and so so much pain. Each character is on their own journey and dealing with things in their own way.
The added dimension is that we know that Harry, the driver, is hiding something. As we try to figure out what he is hiding we are also feeling so much for the others involved. We also spend some of the time unsure who was wheeled out in that first section.
It sounds cliched, but the journey the characters go on is fantastically written and feels so authentic and sensitively handled.
I've added all of Caroline Bond's books to my to read list.
I read the bulk of this through The Pigeonhole until I realised I had a Netgalley copy and couldn't resist reading ahead sometimes when a stave finished but I wanted more. That's how absorbing this book is.
Thanks to The Pigeonhole, Netgalley, the publishers and Caroline Bond for this ARC.
It starts "Thirty Two Days after the accident", with a young person being wheeled out of intensive care on their final journey. Right in at the emotional deep-end we go.
We then go back to an accident where a group of young friends crash a car into a wall. The ensuing events are a real masterpiece in exploring character emotions and responses to that fateful event. There are multiple perspectives and so so much pain. Each character is on their own journey and dealing with things in their own way.
The added dimension is that we know that Harry, the driver, is hiding something. As we try to figure out what he is hiding we are also feeling so much for the others involved. We also spend some of the time unsure who was wheeled out in that first section.
It sounds cliched, but the journey the characters go on is fantastically written and feels so authentic and sensitively handled.
I've added all of Caroline Bond's books to my to read list.
I read the bulk of this through The Pigeonhole until I realised I had a Netgalley copy and couldn't resist reading ahead sometimes when a stave finished but I wanted more. That's how absorbing this book is.
Thanks to The Pigeonhole, Netgalley, the publishers and Caroline Bond for this ARC.
July 7, 2020
The story tells us how different members of the same community are affected after the car accident involving 5 local teenagers. The grief, the guilt, the blame, the punishment, the forgiveness, the shame and many more emotions were spilling off the pages of this well written and gripping novel. Because of the number of characters in the story at the beginning I had trouble connecting and understanding who is who and how they are involved but after a few chapters all fell in places and I was immersed into the story and couldn't wait to find out how things were going to evolve to each of them.
The characters were developed in great depth and felt real, relatable and lovable. It was a very emotional but moving story and the way the story was executed it gave me a lot of Beartown by F Backman vibes. Intriguing and provoking read, sad in places but at the same time full of hope. Would recommend reading it and I'll be definitely looking out for more from this author.
The characters were developed in great depth and felt real, relatable and lovable. It was a very emotional but moving story and the way the story was executed it gave me a lot of Beartown by F Backman vibes. Intriguing and provoking read, sad in places but at the same time full of hope. Would recommend reading it and I'll be definitely looking out for more from this author.
June 15, 2020
Caroline Bond is fast becoming a "must read" author for me. This is my third book by her and once again I loved it. A group of teenage friends crash after a night out, every parent's nightmare. This is a hard subject to tackle but Caroline handles it beautifully. The characters are all very real and the reader lives and feels every emotional step of their long journeys. This is a heartbreaking, emotional read that I highly recommend.
Thanks to Caroline and Pigeonhole for the chance to read this book.
Thanks to Caroline and Pigeonhole for the chance to read this book.
October 6, 2024
This was an emotional read for sure!
I was drawn towards One Split Second written by Caroline Bond from the cover and the blurb.
It just shows the absolute devastating impact that drink driving has on families. I’m not tarnishing all youngsters under the same brush but I hope that if anyone who has recently passed their driving test reads this book it makes you think twice before getting behind the wheel after even a single drink of alcohol. The lasting effects are true to life even with this particular book being fiction.
I think this is a fictional story which screams loud the importance of drink driving!
The bestest of friends all devastated and heavy with grief, one of them dead and another in prison. This story takes you on an emotional ride through each individual and their families suffering with life after a car crash caused by drink driving.
I cried, I laughed, I felt the love, I felt anger, I felt sad, my heart warmed and honestly I found it bittersweet.
One Split Second allows you to be transported into the characters grief journey, you feel their hurt, their anger, their pain. You also watch them grow within their healing, seeing new relationships made and relationships mending and the journey of healing after losing someone you love.
You see a lot about forgiveness, courage and hope!
I loved this book so much, it really pulled at my heart strings and the ending just made me sob even harder unaware that I could cry any more at this book!
I was drawn towards One Split Second written by Caroline Bond from the cover and the blurb.
It just shows the absolute devastating impact that drink driving has on families. I’m not tarnishing all youngsters under the same brush but I hope that if anyone who has recently passed their driving test reads this book it makes you think twice before getting behind the wheel after even a single drink of alcohol. The lasting effects are true to life even with this particular book being fiction.
I think this is a fictional story which screams loud the importance of drink driving!
The bestest of friends all devastated and heavy with grief, one of them dead and another in prison. This story takes you on an emotional ride through each individual and their families suffering with life after a car crash caused by drink driving.
I cried, I laughed, I felt the love, I felt anger, I felt sad, my heart warmed and honestly I found it bittersweet.
One Split Second allows you to be transported into the characters grief journey, you feel their hurt, their anger, their pain. You also watch them grow within their healing, seeing new relationships made and relationships mending and the journey of healing after losing someone you love.
You see a lot about forgiveness, courage and hope!
I loved this book so much, it really pulled at my heart strings and the ending just made me sob even harder unaware that I could cry any more at this book!
June 21, 2020
I found it a bit slow to get off the ground, I get the author was trying to build suspense but i don’t think it was quite managed.
We hear daily early on through Mo that there was an argument before the crash and the Harry the driver was very angry, this wasn’t explained enough for me. Some characters were introduced and forgotten again with no explanation...Cheryl?!
It was emotive and the description of the crash and the ripples something like that causes were well done. I especially liked the character of the man who was first on the scene and how he was affected by the nights events.
All in all it was enjoyable but I think it could have been made a lot better with a bit more to the plot.
Thanks to NetGalley for an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
We hear daily early on through Mo that there was an argument before the crash and the Harry the driver was very angry, this wasn’t explained enough for me. Some characters were introduced and forgotten again with no explanation...Cheryl?!
It was emotive and the description of the crash and the ripples something like that causes were well done. I especially liked the character of the man who was first on the scene and how he was affected by the nights events.
All in all it was enjoyable but I think it could have been made a lot better with a bit more to the plot.
Thanks to NetGalley for an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2024
4
I've never heard of this book before, or the author. I saw it in a charity shop and only bought it because I needed to buy something else to reach the card minimum.
It was so easy to get through and it was a good book. The characters felt like themselves and not the authors thoughts. I liked the attention to detail and how the individuals were made whole. Lacking, but not incomplete. (although I didn't particularly like them, there is one person I wish we saw more of..)
I've never heard of this book before, or the author. I saw it in a charity shop and only bought it because I needed to buy something else to reach the card minimum.
It was so easy to get through and it was a good book. The characters felt like themselves and not the authors thoughts. I liked the attention to detail and how the individuals were made whole. Lacking, but not incomplete. (although I didn't particularly like them, there is one person I wish we saw more of..)
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