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The Speed of Light
A compelling and provocative debut novel told in intersecting timelines over a tumultuous, defining year in one woman’s life.
Simone is trying her best not to think of what she’s lost. Diagnosed with MS, she awaits the results of another anxiety-inducing MRI. She’s just walked away from Connor, “a fixer” but possibly the love of her life. And nearing the holidays, the sights and sounds of winter in South Dakota only prick memories of better years gone by. Then, on a December morning at the university where she works, jarring gunshots pierce the halls. In a temporary safe place and terrified, Simone listens and pretends this will all be over soon.
As she waits for silence, her mind racing, Simone’s past year comes into focus. Falling in love and missing it. Finding strength in family and enduring friendships. Planning for the future, fearing it, and hoping against hope in dark places. Her life has been changing at the speed of light, and each crossroad brought Simone here, to this day, to endure the things she can’t control and to confront those that she can.
Simone is trying her best not to think of what she’s lost. Diagnosed with MS, she awaits the results of another anxiety-inducing MRI. She’s just walked away from Connor, “a fixer” but possibly the love of her life. And nearing the holidays, the sights and sounds of winter in South Dakota only prick memories of better years gone by. Then, on a December morning at the university where she works, jarring gunshots pierce the halls. In a temporary safe place and terrified, Simone listens and pretends this will all be over soon.
As she waits for silence, her mind racing, Simone’s past year comes into focus. Falling in love and missing it. Finding strength in family and enduring friendships. Planning for the future, fearing it, and hoping against hope in dark places. Her life has been changing at the speed of light, and each crossroad brought Simone here, to this day, to endure the things she can’t control and to confront those that she can.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2021
3396 people are currently reading
13238 people want to read
About the author
Elissa Grossell Dickey
2 books226 followersElissa Grossell Dickey is a former journalist who now works as the communications and marketing director for her local public school district. Stories have always been a big part of Elissa’s life—from getting lost in a book as a child to reading to her kids at bedtime. She has shared her personal story of living with multiple sclerosis through blog posts for the National MS Society. Though she grew up among the lakes and trees of northern Minnesota, Elissa now lives on the South Dakota prairie with her husband and children. She is the author of The Speed of Light and Iris in the Dark. Learn more at elissadickey.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 591 reviews
September 18, 2020
"We are all living on the edge of a cliff without even knowing it, and one fragile movement can push us over the edge or pull us to safety."
This is a novel for everyone, but most especially for anyone who is in doubt of the next day or perhaps the next year.
How do you live with a new diagnosis?
Will you be able put one foot in front of the other each day?
Simone is trying to find her way as she is diagnosed with MS and wonders what the days will hold for her.
How will her life transition? How will her friendships and loves adjust as limitations may happen?
A horrid tragedy occurs.that may be the life lesson Simone and we all need!
This is a wonderful , debut novel and I certainly look forward to more from Elissa Grossell Dickey!
This is a novel for everyone, but most especially for anyone who is in doubt of the next day or perhaps the next year.
How do you live with a new diagnosis?
Will you be able put one foot in front of the other each day?
Simone is trying to find her way as she is diagnosed with MS and wonders what the days will hold for her.
How will her life transition? How will her friendships and loves adjust as limitations may happen?
A horrid tragedy occurs.that may be the life lesson Simone and we all need!
This is a wonderful , debut novel and I certainly look forward to more from Elissa Grossell Dickey!
September 23, 2020
The Speed of Light was a wonderful, layered story that is equal parts gripping and heartfelt. I was completely riveted, and invested in the events of both timelines: an unfolding dangerous situation in the now, as well as the MC's year up to that moment, a burgeoning romance while coping with the life altering multiple sclerosis diagnosis. As a chronic illness sufferer, the MC's internal struggle to process her diagnosis and the implications of that on her future as well as her relationship, really resonated with me. I found it nuanced and authentic, as well as very moving. The characters were well drawn and interesting and I enjoyed spending time with them. I loved the female relationships in this book and found the different family dynamics interesting and relatable. The love story was sweet and had a warmth to it that made you want to root for this couple. I was completely entertained and swept away. I read the book in a single sitting and enjoyed every word. Overall, it was a fantastic read!
October 6, 2020
Loved this book! The characters felt like my friends IRL in that they were flawed, funny, and loyal. Thrilling as it is heart-felt, THE SPEED OF LIGHT drew me in from the first page. While its newly-diagnosed heroine struggles with life's unexpected twists, Dickey delivers a story about family, friendship, and the kind of love that truly makes us feel seen.
February 1, 2021
In many ways, my debut novel, The Speed of Light, is the story I needed when I was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. It means so much to me, and I hope it will mean a lot to readers, too. Thank you for reading!
October 18, 2021
A wonderful story set in South Dakota about a young woman dealing with a life altering disease, a new love affair and a school shooting. Ms. Dickey’s debut novel concerns family, friendship, and inner strength. Unputdownable!
January 5, 2021
The Speed of light was a compelling -- and at times terrifying – dual story line of a year in one young woman’s life. The story alternates between a horrific episode of workplace violence and the year before, as Simone, the MC, struggles to come to terms with her MS diagnosis. Simone and her best friend work together, and she grew up nearby and is very close to her family. Her MS journey begins with getting the diagnosis she had both feared and anticipated. That news ricochets into every aspect of her life affecting her self-image, her burgeoning romance, and her closest friendship. It’s an honest and nuanced examination of the insidious nature of chronic disease which is invisible to others but can come to consume the people it inhabits. The novel also a sweet love story, as well as one about the warmth and kindness of family. It was wonderful to see someone with a chronic illness represented in a novel, which is so rare.
The Speed of Light raises important questions – do we let our illness or disability define us?
What is the line between being independent, and shutting people out?
Is opening yourself up to love worth the risk?
Ultimately, Simone discovers the answers to these questions and so much more about herself and her own inner reserves of strength in this heartwarming debut novel.
The Speed of Light raises important questions – do we let our illness or disability define us?
What is the line between being independent, and shutting people out?
Is opening yourself up to love worth the risk?
Ultimately, Simone discovers the answers to these questions and so much more about herself and her own inner reserves of strength in this heartwarming debut novel.
December 26, 2020
Fans of author Jodi Picoult will love THE SPEED OF LIGHT by Elissa Grossell Dickey. This 2021 debut novel follows the emotional journey of Simone Archer as she rises to meet two separate crises. The first is a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and coming to terms with this unpredictable, incurable illness. Over a year’s time, Simone suffers shock and then hard reality: can she be denied health insurance, should she hide her illness from her boss, and is it morally just to start a relationship with a loving man knowing that MS flare ups are lurking in the future? Simone’s best armor against despair is the support network of her decent, Midwestern family and her brassy but loyal best friend.
Juxtaposed to a timeline that spans a year of the past, there is the present timeline with a second crisis measured in minutes. This is a tragedy all too familiar and frightening for those working in education: gun violence. Simone, who has finally found her confidence and strength, now faces grave danger in her workplace. Without giving away too much of the ending, readers can expect to be proud of Simone and hopeful for her future.
Given our pluralistic society, it’s important to read about diverse characters written by authors from that same group. Dickey is a writer living with MS who ends the Acknowledgements of her debut, “To my fellow MS warriors… you are all strong and amazing.”
Back at you.
This advance reader copy was graciously provided by the author in an exchange.
Juxtaposed to a timeline that spans a year of the past, there is the present timeline with a second crisis measured in minutes. This is a tragedy all too familiar and frightening for those working in education: gun violence. Simone, who has finally found her confidence and strength, now faces grave danger in her workplace. Without giving away too much of the ending, readers can expect to be proud of Simone and hopeful for her future.
Given our pluralistic society, it’s important to read about diverse characters written by authors from that same group. Dickey is a writer living with MS who ends the Acknowledgements of her debut, “To my fellow MS warriors… you are all strong and amazing.”
Back at you.
This advance reader copy was graciously provided by the author in an exchange.
February 9, 2021
This book started strong for me and had me literally holding my breath while the scene played out. Unfortunately, I was way more engaged with the school shooting chapters versus the other storylines that represented the bulk of the book. The other storylines weren’t bad, I just found myself trying to read through them quickly to see what happened next with the shooting. I was a bit disappointed to find out who the shooter was, because there was literally zero explanation given as to what the motive was. Oh, and in a book full of cell phone references, everyone left their phones at their desks before the shooting started? How convenient. 😂
*Edited to add that I’ve been mulling this over and I’m now quite annoyed! I don’t want to ruin anything, but how tf was nothing mentioned about the motivation behind the shooting?? This is a GIGANTIC plot hole! Especially because there are clues dropped and you think you know why, but it’s literally never explained. Like, at all. No mention whatsoever. WHY!!?? 🤬
*Edited to add that I’ve been mulling this over and I’m now quite annoyed! I don’t want to ruin anything, but how tf was nothing mentioned about the motivation behind the shooting?? This is a GIGANTIC plot hole! Especially because there are clues dropped and you think you know why, but it’s literally never explained. Like, at all. No mention whatsoever. WHY!!?? 🤬
November 14, 2020
Have you ever spent time wishing for something to be different that you almost ended up missing the things that were going right?
In the captivating debut, The Speed of Light, Simone is a woman at a crossroads. After years of experiencing vague symptoms, she finally has a confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. Determined to not let it redefine her life, she intends to keep on with things, business as usual.
Of course the problem in not facing one’s fear is that decision is often made out of fear itself. It’s this fear that nags at Simone, effecting her decisions regarding self worth, friendship, and even love. Bogged down by the thought that life as she knows it is over, she ironically becomes immobile in moving forward.
Then one day a tragic event occurs, putting so many of Simone’s worries into perspective. It also begs the question, if you spend your life worrying about the life you have left to live, aren’t you missing out on all the living you could be doing?
The Speed of Light is an impressive novel for first time author, Elisa Grossell Dickey. An MS warrior herself, I would imagine it to be cathartic to write about a character living with the diagnosis. She puts a face to the condition, but just like the book itself, MS alone does not define this novel. This is a story where the main character has MS, but this book, like the person with the diagnosis, is much more than that.
If you like stories of determination, love and even a splash of abstract holiday cheer, then be on the lookout for this release. I am honored to have been able to read an advanced copy of this novel. I cannot wait for the rest of the world to be able to read this book and look forward to reading future works by this author!
In the captivating debut, The Speed of Light, Simone is a woman at a crossroads. After years of experiencing vague symptoms, she finally has a confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis. Determined to not let it redefine her life, she intends to keep on with things, business as usual.
Of course the problem in not facing one’s fear is that decision is often made out of fear itself. It’s this fear that nags at Simone, effecting her decisions regarding self worth, friendship, and even love. Bogged down by the thought that life as she knows it is over, she ironically becomes immobile in moving forward.
Then one day a tragic event occurs, putting so many of Simone’s worries into perspective. It also begs the question, if you spend your life worrying about the life you have left to live, aren’t you missing out on all the living you could be doing?
The Speed of Light is an impressive novel for first time author, Elisa Grossell Dickey. An MS warrior herself, I would imagine it to be cathartic to write about a character living with the diagnosis. She puts a face to the condition, but just like the book itself, MS alone does not define this novel. This is a story where the main character has MS, but this book, like the person with the diagnosis, is much more than that.
If you like stories of determination, love and even a splash of abstract holiday cheer, then be on the lookout for this release. I am honored to have been able to read an advanced copy of this novel. I cannot wait for the rest of the world to be able to read this book and look forward to reading future works by this author!
December 3, 2020
No Day But Today. This is one of those books that touches on so much that it can at times appear a bit schizoid... and yet it all works. So very well. It has the pop culture references - including the one I used as the title of this review, but also very heavily Star Wars. It has the romance. It has the life-altering diagnosis and its aftermath. It has the immediacy of a school shooting. It has the dual-timeline nature of someone reflecting on the last year of her life during a particularly traumatic moment. Arguably the singular real flaw here is the predictability of the more dual-timeline nature than the more sporadic nature the description seems to imply. But perhaps that was an editorial decision to play it a bit safer in a debut, as a more sporadic approach can be at least as treacherous when not done well - and it is far easier to do horribly than a straight dual-timeline approach. The specific time tags on the present day timeline serve to give a great sense of immediacy and urgency, though at times the shift to the previous timeline is a bit abrupt and jarring. Still, ultimately an excellent debut novel, one that makes this reader look forward to the author's next work. Very much recommended.
February 13, 2021
Just dreadful
This book, more of a short story actually, is just awful. At times sappy sweet and other times grossly anxiety-driven, the narrative just can't hold to a clear chain of thought nor can it help feeling rather like a journal of the bizarre scripted by the ignorant for the unconcerned and uninterested. It rambles on and on in an annoying and narcissistic fashion, and it seemed as though the clearest and most prevalent themes were self pity and adolescent angst.
This woman needs to grow up and realize that sometimes the only construct you might know anything about is the one construct no one else will ever give a damn about.
While she may or may not struggle with MS, she doesn't do a very good job explaining MS to anyone who doesn't have a clue about what it is, how it has several different types, features, diagnostics, and treatments. Her lack of clear skill in keeping the reality in mind, that no one can determine any one persons manner of progression or abatement based solely on one or two symptoms is just plain wrong.
I didn't enjoy this story. Its subject matter is too close to a difficult situation that many people find themselves facing and with far less support from either family, friends, co-workers, employers, or medical professionals yet in this false world she's created everything and everyone just seems to rally up on the side of the protagonist and nothing happens to dislodge the jolly and easy going ramble through some sort of wonderland of chronic illness.
In a word this story is garbage. Filled with inaccuracies, innuendo, and self flattery, this is quite possibly the worst story I have ever read about MS. I have had MS since 1985, and never before now have I ever been so disappointed and disgusted by an effort to help explain and educate people about the disease through fictional means. Even given the small chance that rather than reveal too much personal information or experience the author chooses instead to gloss over some of the more pertinent issues with simplistic and sweeping over generalizations, the one thing I am left with is a badly told tale of poorly worded melodrama that fails to have any significance or impact.
I detested the wishy washy protagonist and the story that fails on so many levels to deliver a product worth my reading time.
Just awful. Avoid this one!
This book, more of a short story actually, is just awful. At times sappy sweet and other times grossly anxiety-driven, the narrative just can't hold to a clear chain of thought nor can it help feeling rather like a journal of the bizarre scripted by the ignorant for the unconcerned and uninterested. It rambles on and on in an annoying and narcissistic fashion, and it seemed as though the clearest and most prevalent themes were self pity and adolescent angst.
This woman needs to grow up and realize that sometimes the only construct you might know anything about is the one construct no one else will ever give a damn about.
While she may or may not struggle with MS, she doesn't do a very good job explaining MS to anyone who doesn't have a clue about what it is, how it has several different types, features, diagnostics, and treatments. Her lack of clear skill in keeping the reality in mind, that no one can determine any one persons manner of progression or abatement based solely on one or two symptoms is just plain wrong.
I didn't enjoy this story. Its subject matter is too close to a difficult situation that many people find themselves facing and with far less support from either family, friends, co-workers, employers, or medical professionals yet in this false world she's created everything and everyone just seems to rally up on the side of the protagonist and nothing happens to dislodge the jolly and easy going ramble through some sort of wonderland of chronic illness.
In a word this story is garbage. Filled with inaccuracies, innuendo, and self flattery, this is quite possibly the worst story I have ever read about MS. I have had MS since 1985, and never before now have I ever been so disappointed and disgusted by an effort to help explain and educate people about the disease through fictional means. Even given the small chance that rather than reveal too much personal information or experience the author chooses instead to gloss over some of the more pertinent issues with simplistic and sweeping over generalizations, the one thing I am left with is a badly told tale of poorly worded melodrama that fails to have any significance or impact.
I detested the wishy washy protagonist and the story that fails on so many levels to deliver a product worth my reading time.
Just awful. Avoid this one!
February 9, 2021
Compelling story of a woman diagnosed with MS, wondering about her future, afraid of what her future will be. Then one day, while at work, shots ring out and suddenly she discovers what real fear and real courage is.
I was totally invested in this story from the first paragraph. Read the book in one setting, it was impossible for me to put it down! Wonderful characters.
5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher and author for an ARC of this book.The opinions expressed are my own.
I was totally invested in this story from the first paragraph. Read the book in one setting, it was impossible for me to put it down! Wonderful characters.
5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher and author for an ARC of this book.The opinions expressed are my own.
March 19, 2021
The story of a woman's year of romance and deep friendship after she gets a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, and a workplace shooting at the end of it all. If your reaction is huh?, I'm with you.
Simone's diagnosis sends her into a tailspin. She's mostly in denial as she decides against treatment and won't talk about it much to her family, friends and Connor, the great guy she just met. As far as he goes, she's got plenty of other hangups: Why would a perfect guy like that want me? What if he just wants to "fix me" now, but leaves me later?
Honestly, I didn't know this was about a new MS patient's romance - I thought this was going to be about a workplace shooting while a woman flashes back on her life. I wouldn't have picked this up if I'd known it was the other way around! For what this was, the active shooter thing was totally unnecessary and left me scratching my head.
Simone's diagnosis sends her into a tailspin. She's mostly in denial as she decides against treatment and won't talk about it much to her family, friends and Connor, the great guy she just met. As far as he goes, she's got plenty of other hangups: Why would a perfect guy like that want me? What if he just wants to "fix me" now, but leaves me later?
Honestly, I didn't know this was about a new MS patient's romance - I thought this was going to be about a workplace shooting while a woman flashes back on her life. I wouldn't have picked this up if I'd known it was the other way around! For what this was, the active shooter thing was totally unnecessary and left me scratching my head.
November 16, 2020
I am simply amazed. I absolutely loved The Speed of Light.
The Speed of Light discusses very serious and important topics like mass shootings and the chronic illness Multiple Sclerosis. Elissa Dickey approaches these important topics elegantly and with care.
The way that this book is set up makes you want to keep reading. Bouncing back and forth between the shooting and the events in Simone's life in the months leading up to it was an excellent decision! It left the reader on a cliff-hanger for fear of how the shooting will unfold–will Simone be okay? Will Nikki be okay? Elissa incorporated a theme into each part of her story that is not only reflected in the sections where Simone is trapped in the shooting, but in Simone's life before the shooting as well. This choice allows us to get to know Simone better and how her life experiences shape her actions during the shooting. It also gives us insight into the other characters of the book who were at the college during the shooting–and even the shooters themselves. Because Chet was a major douche, I saw that one coming. But Stan? That partnership? Until the title card for the 10th part, Betrayal, I didn't figure that out. The plot twists in this book were amazing. Ariel dying her hair red was so perfect for a twist. It's that rom-com feel of when one character looks back, just missing the other's gaze. Emmett never saw Diana, so he could've only identified her by the fiery red hair. And Connor and Ariel just happened to come to the hospital when Simone was visiting Nikki–it killed me.
Lissa also created lovable and realistic characters. Nikki was hilarious. Hayley was so courageous. Stan was a flighty bastard that tried to redeem himself in the end. Simone's parents reminded me of people in my own life-especially because the dad was very meticulous about his lawn. Emmett is a gamer with a gold sense of humor. And of course, Connor, the perfect guy that only exists in books.
I could talk about The Speed of Light for hours. There were so many things that I loved about this book and I cannot wait to see it on the bestseller list next spring. <3
The Speed of Light discusses very serious and important topics like mass shootings and the chronic illness Multiple Sclerosis. Elissa Dickey approaches these important topics elegantly and with care.
The way that this book is set up makes you want to keep reading. Bouncing back and forth between the shooting and the events in Simone's life in the months leading up to it was an excellent decision! It left the reader on a cliff-hanger for fear of how the shooting will unfold–will Simone be okay? Will Nikki be okay? Elissa incorporated a theme into each part of her story that is not only reflected in the sections where Simone is trapped in the shooting, but in Simone's life before the shooting as well. This choice allows us to get to know Simone better and how her life experiences shape her actions during the shooting. It also gives us insight into the other characters of the book who were at the college during the shooting–and even the shooters themselves. Because Chet was a major douche, I saw that one coming. But Stan? That partnership? Until the title card for the 10th part, Betrayal, I didn't figure that out. The plot twists in this book were amazing. Ariel dying her hair red was so perfect for a twist. It's that rom-com feel of when one character looks back, just missing the other's gaze. Emmett never saw Diana, so he could've only identified her by the fiery red hair. And Connor and Ariel just happened to come to the hospital when Simone was visiting Nikki–it killed me.
Lissa also created lovable and realistic characters. Nikki was hilarious. Hayley was so courageous. Stan was a flighty bastard that tried to redeem himself in the end. Simone's parents reminded me of people in my own life-especially because the dad was very meticulous about his lawn. Emmett is a gamer with a gold sense of humor. And of course, Connor, the perfect guy that only exists in books.
I could talk about The Speed of Light for hours. There were so many things that I loved about this book and I cannot wait to see it on the bestseller list next spring. <3
March 8, 2021
"We are all living on the edge of a cliff without even knowing it, and one fragile movement can push us over the edge or pull us to safety."
Elissa Grossell Dickey's debut novel, The Speed of Light is a trip through quantum space. Beginning with Simone's suspicion that something is very wrong with her body, the novel hurtles back and forth following her diagnosis to a spiritually eye-opening end.
The author's clear prose highlights the lifequaking emotions Simone, her bestie Nikkie, and her family and co-workers experience as a totally unexpected plot unfolds.
I loved the strong relationships between the women, including Nikkie and her girlfriend Claudia, with Simone. As well, the growth and bonding between Simone's boyfriend, Connor and her Dad and brother.
Most of all, the author spoke to the heart of having a chronic illness and how many ways it impacted Simone's decisions, relationships and work environment. Her braveness in writing from her own experiences shines like a lantern in the dark.
And, what a plot! I was truly kept guessing until the very end as to the resolution of the intertwined stories. Nay, kept on the edge of my couch!
The Speed of Light is entertaining, exciting, philosophical and deeply spiritual. This truly deserves a five star rating.
Elissa Grossell Dickey's debut novel, The Speed of Light is a trip through quantum space. Beginning with Simone's suspicion that something is very wrong with her body, the novel hurtles back and forth following her diagnosis to a spiritually eye-opening end.
The author's clear prose highlights the lifequaking emotions Simone, her bestie Nikkie, and her family and co-workers experience as a totally unexpected plot unfolds.
I loved the strong relationships between the women, including Nikkie and her girlfriend Claudia, with Simone. As well, the growth and bonding between Simone's boyfriend, Connor and her Dad and brother.
Most of all, the author spoke to the heart of having a chronic illness and how many ways it impacted Simone's decisions, relationships and work environment. Her braveness in writing from her own experiences shines like a lantern in the dark.
And, what a plot! I was truly kept guessing until the very end as to the resolution of the intertwined stories. Nay, kept on the edge of my couch!
The Speed of Light is entertaining, exciting, philosophical and deeply spiritual. This truly deserves a five star rating.
February 3, 2021
Riveting and emotional
The Speed of Light is riveting and intense, as well as deeply moving. This amazing debut novel revolves around two life-altering events: a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and a workplace shooting. Simone is at the center of both stories, first as a woman dealing with a devastating diagnosis, navigating her way though the pain and the uncertainty, confused and scared; and then a year after her diagnosis, finding the strength to survive a horrendous event. Simone’s emotions were genuine and raw, and I felt her fears and her doubts deep in my heart. This novel of resilience and determination was written by someone who has MS herself, making the story feel intimate and personal. My own daughter and a niece also have MS, making it deeply emotional for me, as well. I thank the author for telling this story in a way that is honest, but also uplifting.
The Speed of Light is riveting and intense, as well as deeply moving. This amazing debut novel revolves around two life-altering events: a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and a workplace shooting. Simone is at the center of both stories, first as a woman dealing with a devastating diagnosis, navigating her way though the pain and the uncertainty, confused and scared; and then a year after her diagnosis, finding the strength to survive a horrendous event. Simone’s emotions were genuine and raw, and I felt her fears and her doubts deep in my heart. This novel of resilience and determination was written by someone who has MS herself, making the story feel intimate and personal. My own daughter and a niece also have MS, making it deeply emotional for me, as well. I thank the author for telling this story in a way that is honest, but also uplifting.
December 23, 2020
Compelling story of a woman diagnosed with MS, wondering about her future, afraid of what her future will be. Then one day, while at work, shots ring out and suddenly she discovers what real fear and real courage is.I
I was totally invested in this story from the first paragraph. Read the book in one setting, it was impossible for me to put it down! Wonderful characters.
5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher and author for an ARC of this book.The opinions expressed are my own.
I was totally invested in this story from the first paragraph. Read the book in one setting, it was impossible for me to put it down! Wonderful characters.
5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher and author for an ARC of this book.The opinions expressed are my own.
November 17, 2020
Awesome book! I couldn’t put it down. Elissa has done a wonderful job of creating captivating characters and grabbing your attention right away in the beginning of the book. I loved how she wove a little romance into such a powerful, and at times, suspenseful, story. I would definitely recommend this book!
December 23, 2020
The Speed of Light takes hold of your heart and doesn’t let go. Simon’s journey is inspirational, funny, sexy, and heartbreaking. You’ll root for her from page one. This story was a perfect escape for the crazy world we live in.
February 1, 2021
Gripping Debut Novel
I read and review a lot of books, so sometimes I feel a little jaded when I pick up a new book, expecting to be disappointed—as I most often am—because of what seems to be rookie mistakes like info dumps and telling not showing. But, luckily, that was not the case with this book. It is an excellent, and I might even say, stunning debut novel. This book has a dual-timeline story, one that looks over the span of the heroine’s previous year when her life (and its possibilities) greatly changed and one that is almost a minute-by-minute telling of the heroine’s involvement in a school shooting at her workplace. The heroine has had a difficult year, facing an MS diagnosis, making her wonder what her life could possibly be like after that life-changing diagnosis. She questions not only how it affects and will affect herself but also those around her, including her family, best friend, and potential romantic partner. This broader storyline has an excellent cast of characters, with a little family drama, a bold friend, and swoony, sweet hero. I particularly liked the female and family dynamics. As an RN who had a life-changing diagnosis in my early thirties, I felt like the author portrayed the heroine’s thoughts and feelings in the pivotal early times of her illness with honesty and authenticity. Not surprising, as the author does state that she is an MS warrior herself. I love it when authors can bring their own lives to bear in creating believable and relatable characters, adding nuances that would be hard for other authors without that experience to write. The dual-timeline story brings a sharpness to the book that makes it more of a page-turner than this type of “hard diagnosis” story usually is—it doesn't just pull at the heartstrings, as those books do, but it also makes the pulse pound! The school situation is also a catalyst for the heroine, making her assess her perception of herself and her life in that new, horrifying life-altering moment. I won't give anything away, but the way the book wraps up is exceedingly satisfying, making me want to stand up and give a round of applause for our heroine. I enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I read and review a lot of books, so sometimes I feel a little jaded when I pick up a new book, expecting to be disappointed—as I most often am—because of what seems to be rookie mistakes like info dumps and telling not showing. But, luckily, that was not the case with this book. It is an excellent, and I might even say, stunning debut novel. This book has a dual-timeline story, one that looks over the span of the heroine’s previous year when her life (and its possibilities) greatly changed and one that is almost a minute-by-minute telling of the heroine’s involvement in a school shooting at her workplace. The heroine has had a difficult year, facing an MS diagnosis, making her wonder what her life could possibly be like after that life-changing diagnosis. She questions not only how it affects and will affect herself but also those around her, including her family, best friend, and potential romantic partner. This broader storyline has an excellent cast of characters, with a little family drama, a bold friend, and swoony, sweet hero. I particularly liked the female and family dynamics. As an RN who had a life-changing diagnosis in my early thirties, I felt like the author portrayed the heroine’s thoughts and feelings in the pivotal early times of her illness with honesty and authenticity. Not surprising, as the author does state that she is an MS warrior herself. I love it when authors can bring their own lives to bear in creating believable and relatable characters, adding nuances that would be hard for other authors without that experience to write. The dual-timeline story brings a sharpness to the book that makes it more of a page-turner than this type of “hard diagnosis” story usually is—it doesn't just pull at the heartstrings, as those books do, but it also makes the pulse pound! The school situation is also a catalyst for the heroine, making her assess her perception of herself and her life in that new, horrifying life-altering moment. I won't give anything away, but the way the book wraps up is exceedingly satisfying, making me want to stand up and give a round of applause for our heroine. I enjoyed this novel and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
February 16, 2021
Living with MS can be a bummer at times. It’s such a devious disease, you go from feeling great to barely functioning in the blink of an eye. The uncertainty of life is truly frightening. Dickey has done an excellent job of capturing these feelings in this book. Even better, she allows her main character to discover hidden strength. If you are living with MS or know someone who is, please read this book.
Bonus note, I learned that the rules have changed and I can once more give blood. That’s a small but mighty victory for me.
Bonus note, I learned that the rules have changed and I can once more give blood. That’s a small but mighty victory for me.
February 26, 2021
I really loved this book and can't wait to read more from this author.
April 5, 2021
This is a story of a young, independent woman knowing something is happening in her body but there’s no diagnosis, yet. She’s going for tests and gets the diagnosis she has multiple sclerosis. There isn’t a good rapport between her doctor, the nurse and so she comes to be in denial with this. She tries a MS support group, but that’s not working for her either. While all this is going on, she meets a hunky guy, Connor. She thinks the timing of this is maybe not good, and while he eventually knows of her MS and is supportive of her and falling in love with her and she with him, she’s in denial. She’s also very prickly about her MS; she doesn’t want to be a burden to anyone. She does not want anyone’s pity or sympathy.
The story continues with her close relationship with her family, her relationship with Connor, her best friend and work colleagues and her boss. She gets to meet Connor’s family one holiday weekend and things don’t go so well.
She’s still having issues accepting her diagnosis and future with MS because she has been doing so well. She actually trains and runs a 5K.
As if this personal story wasn’t enough, there’s a situation at the university where she works. An active shooter is in her building. She sees people getting shot and gets help, putting her own life in danger. What she goes through is shocking and what she comes out with at the end, allows her to see things more clearly with maturity and acceptance; to embrace life, herself and everyone in it with pure joy and love. She realizes her life is changing at “The Speed of Light.”
The story continues with her close relationship with her family, her relationship with Connor, her best friend and work colleagues and her boss. She gets to meet Connor’s family one holiday weekend and things don’t go so well.
She’s still having issues accepting her diagnosis and future with MS because she has been doing so well. She actually trains and runs a 5K.
As if this personal story wasn’t enough, there’s a situation at the university where she works. An active shooter is in her building. She sees people getting shot and gets help, putting her own life in danger. What she goes through is shocking and what she comes out with at the end, allows her to see things more clearly with maturity and acceptance; to embrace life, herself and everyone in it with pure joy and love. She realizes her life is changing at “The Speed of Light.”
February 3, 2021
What a ride !! I LOVED this story and I'm delighted I selected it for this month's Kindle First choice. I was going to opt for the true crime story in all honesty as that's "my" genre but that turned out to be a sequel to another book so it was to The Speed of Light for me instead. And sadly I've finished it thus, as I had to stay up till late last night NEEDING to know how things ended ! A mark of tremendous story-telling. I did huff and puff when we reached the end of the "now" chapters as I was SO dying to know just WHAT was occurring there, but not for long as I was soon swept up once more in Simone's life.
There is everything here, trust me. Romance, thrills, murders, laugh-aloud humour, arguments, secrets and MS.......a different take on things there. I know a couple of men who have suffered and I know things are improving but it's still needing a lot more research. But at least I see hope with MS, whereas cancer just seems to be a never-ending money-pit to my way of looking at it. The author's note at the end shocked me silly !!
I just loved how Simone's family spoke and behaved and the great people they all were. I fell in love with Connor a little as well-what's not to like ?? Although I'm with Simone regarding lies. I won't take being lied to, either !! Nikki is a heroine as well......everyone needs a Nikki in their lives, too. I did get a tiny bit frustrated at Simone at one point but then Nikki saved me the trouble of being TOO irritated as she kicked her into touch for the reader ! Oooh, Walter was just lovely, too, by the way. I enjoyed his inclusion. And yes, I ended up sobbing and snivelling at the point we revisit the title of the book......
Superbly written as well with proper spelling and grammar used !! What a joy. I spotted French not being capitalised a couple of times and she did THAT American thing I hate, where they drop the word me/us from a sentence, as in, "Thanks for coming with on the residence hall tour today." However, that is one of my personal gripes, as it seems to be the accepted way of speaking/writing there. I'd have used an apostrophe after Admissions a couple of times and put a hyphen in people watch but that's it for my nit-picking.
I would've liked to have known more about the shooting incident as well, got into the whys and wherefores a little further for my satisfaction, but this hasn't spoiled my enjoyment and delight in the story as a whole.
There is everything here, trust me. Romance, thrills, murders, laugh-aloud humour, arguments, secrets and MS.......a different take on things there. I know a couple of men who have suffered and I know things are improving but it's still needing a lot more research. But at least I see hope with MS, whereas cancer just seems to be a never-ending money-pit to my way of looking at it. The author's note at the end shocked me silly !!
I just loved how Simone's family spoke and behaved and the great people they all were. I fell in love with Connor a little as well-what's not to like ?? Although I'm with Simone regarding lies. I won't take being lied to, either !! Nikki is a heroine as well......everyone needs a Nikki in their lives, too. I did get a tiny bit frustrated at Simone at one point but then Nikki saved me the trouble of being TOO irritated as she kicked her into touch for the reader ! Oooh, Walter was just lovely, too, by the way. I enjoyed his inclusion. And yes, I ended up sobbing and snivelling at the point we revisit the title of the book......
Superbly written as well with proper spelling and grammar used !! What a joy. I spotted French not being capitalised a couple of times and she did THAT American thing I hate, where they drop the word me/us from a sentence, as in, "Thanks for coming with on the residence hall tour today." However, that is one of my personal gripes, as it seems to be the accepted way of speaking/writing there. I'd have used an apostrophe after Admissions a couple of times and put a hyphen in people watch but that's it for my nit-picking.
I would've liked to have known more about the shooting incident as well, got into the whys and wherefores a little further for my satisfaction, but this hasn't spoiled my enjoyment and delight in the story as a whole.
February 5, 2021
Great
I got this book free as one of my February Kindle unlimited first reads. I’m so glad I picked it. It was an easy read, if a bit predictable, that I was hooked on right from the start and found hard to put down.
I don’t usually like books where the sections alternate between different timelines but I did on this occasion. Both of the storylines were good and linked together really well in the end.
It’s the authors first novel and I’ll be keeping an eye out for more from her in the future. Would definitely recommend.
I got this book free as one of my February Kindle unlimited first reads. I’m so glad I picked it. It was an easy read, if a bit predictable, that I was hooked on right from the start and found hard to put down.
I don’t usually like books where the sections alternate between different timelines but I did on this occasion. Both of the storylines were good and linked together really well in the end.
It’s the authors first novel and I’ll be keeping an eye out for more from her in the future. Would definitely recommend.
February 3, 2021
This was a beautifully rendered story of the fragility of life and how quickly everything can change. Dickey writes with incredible insight and empathy, resulting in a book that is breathlessly paced and will stay with the reader a long time.
April 4, 2021
An interesting story about someone finding themselves after a very big diagnosis. I liked the searching and the adventure of getting to know someone. I also thought the ground shifting that happens after a big medical diagnosis change was interesting and well done. The second storyline was also well done and scary. I liked this one!
February 21, 2021
Authentic emotions
As a person with MS it was interesting to read about a character who was struggling as I have. Many times as I read her words I could hear myself. The fears and uncertainty are real. Thank you for giving MS people a voice.
As a person with MS it was interesting to read about a character who was struggling as I have. Many times as I read her words I could hear myself. The fears and uncertainty are real. Thank you for giving MS people a voice.
September 26, 2021
This novel follows the story of Simone, recently diagnosed with MS and struggling to come to terms with the blow she's been dealt. It also focusses on her relationships, both family, friends, colleagues and romantic over a period of 12 months prior to the present day. On top of that, this is a dual timeline, where in the present, Simone is dealing with an active shooter situation at her workplace.
Now, all that sounds like it should be a bit of a mess, but I have to be honest, despite my mediocre star-score on this, I felt it worked. I liked getting to know Simone in the past, and was hooked by the action in the present. However, as is usually the case with these dual timelines, one is more compelling than the other, and I felt this was the shooter scenario, which really didn't get enough air-play.
In fact, throughout the past timeline, you get hints as to who the shooter might be, and you start to try to work it out. Regardless of whether you're right or not (no spoilers here!), there is absolutely no explanation. It's almost like, OK, there was a shooter situation, that got resolved, move on. Nothing to see here. As someone who has taken the time to invest in a storyline, I find that quite an insulting way to treat readers. We deserve to know the why. It's lazy to just not bother and has rankled me increasingly since finishing this book.
Finally, I really struggled with Simone as a character. Her attitude towards her diagnosis, her friends who aren't living with the calamity that she is, and her general miserableness ALL THE TIME made her a very difficult person to care about. No, I have not got MS; however, I have a friend who does. I have friends with other debilitating chronic illnesses. I have a child with SEN. I have had family members who have been given appalling news. Yes, everyone handles things differently, but I would expect a fictional character to perhaps be able to lay off the woe-is-me just a little bit.
I understand this allows for the character to develop, to perhaps have an epiphany, but it wasn't strong enough to warrant all her hand-wringing anxiety. And, just as an aside, why did she "whisper" the vast majority of her responses to everyone? Was the entire book set in a library? It really grated after a while. So much whispering and muttering in day to day life - yet never in the shooter situation. Go figure.
Anyway, that's no doubt me just being a bit grouchy because I really wanted to like this book, but the lack of explanation, the nice neat ending and the moaning throughout just let it all down. Plus side, it is WONDERFUL to see fiction featuring characters with invisible disabilities/health conditions. I am all for representation, and have to absolutely applaud that.
Now, all that sounds like it should be a bit of a mess, but I have to be honest, despite my mediocre star-score on this, I felt it worked. I liked getting to know Simone in the past, and was hooked by the action in the present. However, as is usually the case with these dual timelines, one is more compelling than the other, and I felt this was the shooter scenario, which really didn't get enough air-play.
In fact, throughout the past timeline, you get hints as to who the shooter might be, and you start to try to work it out. Regardless of whether you're right or not (no spoilers here!), there is absolutely no explanation. It's almost like, OK, there was a shooter situation, that got resolved, move on. Nothing to see here. As someone who has taken the time to invest in a storyline, I find that quite an insulting way to treat readers. We deserve to know the why. It's lazy to just not bother and has rankled me increasingly since finishing this book.
Finally, I really struggled with Simone as a character. Her attitude towards her diagnosis, her friends who aren't living with the calamity that she is, and her general miserableness ALL THE TIME made her a very difficult person to care about. No, I have not got MS; however, I have a friend who does. I have friends with other debilitating chronic illnesses. I have a child with SEN. I have had family members who have been given appalling news. Yes, everyone handles things differently, but I would expect a fictional character to perhaps be able to lay off the woe-is-me just a little bit.
I understand this allows for the character to develop, to perhaps have an epiphany, but it wasn't strong enough to warrant all her hand-wringing anxiety. And, just as an aside, why did she "whisper" the vast majority of her responses to everyone? Was the entire book set in a library? It really grated after a while. So much whispering and muttering in day to day life - yet never in the shooter situation. Go figure.
Anyway, that's no doubt me just being a bit grouchy because I really wanted to like this book, but the lack of explanation, the nice neat ending and the moaning throughout just let it all down. Plus side, it is WONDERFUL to see fiction featuring characters with invisible disabilities/health conditions. I am all for representation, and have to absolutely applaud that.
February 3, 2021
I truly enjoyed The Speed of Light. The characters. The pacing. The setting. The timeliness. The emotional journey. All of it. Elissa Grossell Dickey pulls off the dual timelines like an expert and reels the reader right in. The story itself alternates between a tragic workplace event and the year before when Simone, the main character, grapples with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. I personally appreciated the complexity in Simone's life--her dedication to family, relationships, friendships, and her quest to figure out what would be best for her health and happiness. Simone felt real to me, fully fleshed out, and I rooted for her and her circle of support the whole time. I'd suggest the book to anyone who understands what chronic illness is about, and I look forward to reading more work from this author!
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