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Daffodils: A Memoir
Louise has revealed the harrowing story in which she reflects on her life and the bridge incident that shook her family to the core.
Content warning: suicide.
2019. Dawn. The River Humber. A misty February walk. Surprise early daffodils. A picture taken. Then forgotten. Because five hours later my world shattered.
My mother jumped off the Humber Bridge. Had those yellow flowers not delayed me, I might have been there. Could I have stopped her?
In the aftermath of this violent act, I turned to my writing, to my beloved siblings, to our only uncle. I was forced to look at events that led to this suicide attempt. At relationships wrecked by alcoholism. At chronic depression. At our care records. At my childhood. At my mother. At buried trauma never fully explored before. At myself …
When I much later found the picture of those surprise daffodils, I knew it was time to write about that day. I began typing the story that inspired so many of my fictional characters, that shaped the testing things they endured.
My own story.
'Authentic, unflinching and moving. Written with compassion and humanity and a great deal of love.'
SE Lynes, author of The Housewarming
'Louise Beech has such a lovely way with words.' (on Maria in the Moon)
Nudge Magazine
'Haunting, brave, and brilliant.'
Gill Paul, author of The Second Marriage
'A powerful memoir making sense of a complicated childhood.'
Madeleine Black
'Upsetting, uplifting, and inspiring.'
John Marrs, bestselling author of The Good Samaritan
Content warning: suicide.
2019. Dawn. The River Humber. A misty February walk. Surprise early daffodils. A picture taken. Then forgotten. Because five hours later my world shattered.
My mother jumped off the Humber Bridge. Had those yellow flowers not delayed me, I might have been there. Could I have stopped her?
In the aftermath of this violent act, I turned to my writing, to my beloved siblings, to our only uncle. I was forced to look at events that led to this suicide attempt. At relationships wrecked by alcoholism. At chronic depression. At our care records. At my childhood. At my mother. At buried trauma never fully explored before. At myself …
When I much later found the picture of those surprise daffodils, I knew it was time to write about that day. I began typing the story that inspired so many of my fictional characters, that shaped the testing things they endured.
My own story.
'Authentic, unflinching and moving. Written with compassion and humanity and a great deal of love.'
SE Lynes, author of The Housewarming
'Louise Beech has such a lovely way with words.' (on Maria in the Moon)
Nudge Magazine
'Haunting, brave, and brilliant.'
Gill Paul, author of The Second Marriage
'A powerful memoir making sense of a complicated childhood.'
Madeleine Black
'Upsetting, uplifting, and inspiring.'
John Marrs, bestselling author of The Good Samaritan
Audio CD
Published June 15, 2022
1 person is currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Louise Beech
20 books353 followersAlso publishes under Louise Swanson.
Louise Beech is the author of eleven novels and a memoir, Eighteen Seconds (2023). Her debut, How to be Brave, was a Guardian Readers’ Pick; The Lion Tamer Who Lost shortlisted for the Romantic Novel Awards 2019 and longlisted for the Polari Prize the same year; Call Me Star Girl was Best magazine’s Book of the Year; This Is How We Are Human was a Clare Mackintosh Book Club pick; and the audiobook of her memoir, Daffodils, shortlisted for the Audies23. Her thrillers, End of Story and Lights Out, are written as Louise Swanson; the former was chosen by Sophie Hannah as a Book of the Year in the Daily Mail, and the latter was reviewed by The Times. Her debut play, How to be Brave, toured Yorkshire venues in 2024. Wonderful will be published 1st June 2026.
Louise also writes as Louise Swanson.
Louise Beech is the author of eleven novels and a memoir, Eighteen Seconds (2023). Her debut, How to be Brave, was a Guardian Readers’ Pick; The Lion Tamer Who Lost shortlisted for the Romantic Novel Awards 2019 and longlisted for the Polari Prize the same year; Call Me Star Girl was Best magazine’s Book of the Year; This Is How We Are Human was a Clare Mackintosh Book Club pick; and the audiobook of her memoir, Daffodils, shortlisted for the Audies23. Her thrillers, End of Story and Lights Out, are written as Louise Swanson; the former was chosen by Sophie Hannah as a Book of the Year in the Daily Mail, and the latter was reviewed by The Times. Her debut play, How to be Brave, toured Yorkshire venues in 2024. Wonderful will be published 1st June 2026.
Louise also writes as Louise Swanson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 5, 2022
Memory hands out her gifts at random.
This memoir opens with Louise having an every day early morning discussion with her husband about giving up her morning walk to stay at home to receive a package for him. This will mean forgoing her daily walk, which has become very important to her. She's a loving wife and will do this.
Very soon after, Louise's life would change dramatically, along with that of her three siblings.
Each chapter starts with some information on daffodils (I listened to the audio version and this is how it seemed), about their lifecycle and requirements to thrive, etc. This was an interesting method.
Louise and her siblings grew up with an alcoholic mother, and an absent father. The only real mothering she received was from her paternal grandmother who didn't realise the depths of despair her daughter had reached. She worked tirelessly to care for four young children when she was not in the prime of her life.
Louise's mother jumped off a bridge, possibly at the time Louise was to go on her cherished walk under said bridge. This is the story of how the four siblings coped in the aftermath, as well as the physical rehabilitation and road to recovery of this tormented woman. From an early age Louise sought relief in her writing, and continues to this day.
I was in awe of these well adjusted adults that communicated so well with each other, and who so clearly hold a very tight bond. The story has the occasional chapter from Louise's siblings, and some really lovely WhatsApp messages which show the humour the siblings needed to fall back on to cope with the remarkable feat that their mother survived this fall, with a shattered leg being the worst of the many injuries.
Louise explains the history of their childhood to now, these individuals were exposed to reckless parenting, irresponsible behaviours from their mother, and worse, abandonment and predators being invited into the family home. Despite all this (and more) they are smart and loving siblings with happy families of their own.
Louise was the oldest, she was a mother to her siblings, she is a lovely woman and so well rounded given her past.
The suicide attempt occurred just prior to Covid, and I had to have a quiet chuckle when Lousie mentioned at one stage there was no loss of life thus far in the UK. In the first months, the siblings never left her side, they supported their mum in ways she never reciprocated.
Heartbreaking at the end, one sentence showed what I could only assume. I have known people who could stop drinking, and those who could not, and the benefits reaped from those that could. And this is exactly what Louise wanted for her mother.
Searingly honest, this memoir also contained two letters penned by Louise to their mother listing all the tragedies that occurred while drunk and pleadingly asking her to stop.
I had not heard of this author before now, and will look for more of her work. Recommended for readers who are interested in issues such as addiction and mental health, but a warning, this is quite intense. In saying that, I rated it 5 stars and I do take my hat off to the author in opening her heart and sharing her experience. This would not have been easy, but most certainly cathartic.
This memoir opens with Louise having an every day early morning discussion with her husband about giving up her morning walk to stay at home to receive a package for him. This will mean forgoing her daily walk, which has become very important to her. She's a loving wife and will do this.
Very soon after, Louise's life would change dramatically, along with that of her three siblings.
Each chapter starts with some information on daffodils (I listened to the audio version and this is how it seemed), about their lifecycle and requirements to thrive, etc. This was an interesting method.
Louise and her siblings grew up with an alcoholic mother, and an absent father. The only real mothering she received was from her paternal grandmother who didn't realise the depths of despair her daughter had reached. She worked tirelessly to care for four young children when she was not in the prime of her life.
Louise's mother jumped off a bridge, possibly at the time Louise was to go on her cherished walk under said bridge. This is the story of how the four siblings coped in the aftermath, as well as the physical rehabilitation and road to recovery of this tormented woman. From an early age Louise sought relief in her writing, and continues to this day.
I was in awe of these well adjusted adults that communicated so well with each other, and who so clearly hold a very tight bond. The story has the occasional chapter from Louise's siblings, and some really lovely WhatsApp messages which show the humour the siblings needed to fall back on to cope with the remarkable feat that their mother survived this fall, with a shattered leg being the worst of the many injuries.
Louise explains the history of their childhood to now, these individuals were exposed to reckless parenting, irresponsible behaviours from their mother, and worse, abandonment and predators being invited into the family home. Despite all this (and more) they are smart and loving siblings with happy families of their own.
Louise was the oldest, she was a mother to her siblings, she is a lovely woman and so well rounded given her past.
The suicide attempt occurred just prior to Covid, and I had to have a quiet chuckle when Lousie mentioned at one stage there was no loss of life thus far in the UK. In the first months, the siblings never left her side, they supported their mum in ways she never reciprocated.
Heartbreaking at the end, one sentence showed what I could only assume. I have known people who could stop drinking, and those who could not, and the benefits reaped from those that could. And this is exactly what Louise wanted for her mother.
Searingly honest, this memoir also contained two letters penned by Louise to their mother listing all the tragedies that occurred while drunk and pleadingly asking her to stop.
I had not heard of this author before now, and will look for more of her work. Recommended for readers who are interested in issues such as addiction and mental health, but a warning, this is quite intense. In saying that, I rated it 5 stars and I do take my hat off to the author in opening her heart and sharing her experience. This would not have been easy, but most certainly cathartic.
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November 20, 2023I love this authors books so when this came out I had to read it. It came up available on my library audio Borrowbox. Listening to this made me stop in my tracts when (and I’m giving nothing away here) that her morning route was the same place her Mother decided to take her own life. I just can’t imagine the impact of this, I did read the results of this though going forward in her memoir.
I have only had second hand knowledge of this when my husband’s cousin took his life.
You would think this was going to be doom and gloom. However, like a lot of people who have experienced all kinds of tragedy’s they may tell you…..it’s either sink or swim.
Not as easy as that, but you know what I mean.
This is honest and open and heartfelt emotions.
With some laughter thrown in, genuine times of good as well as bad.
And as for her writing, we know she’s a prolific author and from this book I can see see faces life head on. That’s not saying she never sinks, but boy, from this book I sure can see she’s one of the “swimmers” in life.
I found this very motivational.
I have only had second hand knowledge of this when my husband’s cousin took his life.
You would think this was going to be doom and gloom. However, like a lot of people who have experienced all kinds of tragedy’s they may tell you…..it’s either sink or swim.
Not as easy as that, but you know what I mean.
This is honest and open and heartfelt emotions.
With some laughter thrown in, genuine times of good as well as bad.
And as for her writing, we know she’s a prolific author and from this book I can see see faces life head on. That’s not saying she never sinks, but boy, from this book I sure can see she’s one of the “swimmers” in life.
I found this very motivational.
April 14, 2022
If you are a fan of Louise Beech's original and thought-provoking novels, you will be intrigued by this brave and beautifully written memoir that explains where some of her fictional subjects come from: childhood abuse and neglect, fractured families, suicide, and the kindness of strangers – all have featured in her own life. The decision to write a memoir wasn't taken lightly, as she explains, but it was triggered by the traumatic experience of looking after her mother after she jumped from the Humber Bridge. This unforgettable incident forced Louise and her siblings to reassess their childhoods and make new decisions about their futures. In this book, she takes us right inside her own thoughts and memories with searing honesty. It's a moving and ultimately uplifting memoir, about a remarkably courageous person, who has proved herself a true survivor.
January 21, 2023
This book starts very dramatically - as the author receives news that her own mother has jumped off the Humber Bridge, at the very spot where she takes her daily walk.
This shocking revelation sets the scene for Louise Beech’s memoir. It’s a heartbreaking tale of families; the love they give and the damage they can do. Louise’s relationship with her mother has always been difficult, she has spent fifty years picking up the pieces. The only saving grace of Louise’s unbearably traumatic and disjointed childhood is that her mother gave her three wonderful siblings, and it was absolutely heartwarming to read of the bond between them all.
This is not an easy read. Louise really tells it like it is. It’s frank, funny shocking and sad in equal measure. I wouldn’t have expected anything less. I’m a huge fan of hers and follow her on Instagram and so i felt quite privileged to hear the story of her childhood.
I listened to this on audiobook and it took me a little while to get used to the narrator’s voice. That’s my only gripe - louise, why didn’t you read this yourself? I would have absolutely LOVED to hear her narrate her own story - that would have been the icing on the cake for me.
An unflinchingly honest account of a very tough childhood, from an incredibly talented writer.
This shocking revelation sets the scene for Louise Beech’s memoir. It’s a heartbreaking tale of families; the love they give and the damage they can do. Louise’s relationship with her mother has always been difficult, she has spent fifty years picking up the pieces. The only saving grace of Louise’s unbearably traumatic and disjointed childhood is that her mother gave her three wonderful siblings, and it was absolutely heartwarming to read of the bond between them all.
This is not an easy read. Louise really tells it like it is. It’s frank, funny shocking and sad in equal measure. I wouldn’t have expected anything less. I’m a huge fan of hers and follow her on Instagram and so i felt quite privileged to hear the story of her childhood.
I listened to this on audiobook and it took me a little while to get used to the narrator’s voice. That’s my only gripe - louise, why didn’t you read this yourself? I would have absolutely LOVED to hear her narrate her own story - that would have been the icing on the cake for me.
An unflinchingly honest account of a very tough childhood, from an incredibly talented writer.
March 13, 2022
This is like no other of Louise Beech's books. Her memoir starts with a chilling opening scene; her mother jumping off the Humber bridge and what follows is a deeply moving exploration into her complicated and often confusing childhood. Her family is torn apart when the children are placed in care but what comes across is her maternal, nurturing and protective instincts towards her siblings. It is a sad story of a difficult childhood but it is also uplifting and offers hope. Louise beech has writing in her DNA, whether it is fiction or non fiction. She has a beautiful way with words and I'm so grateful that writing became her therapy at a young age. A difficult story told in such a moving way.
March 14, 2022
Louise Beech has built a reputation for moving and thought-provoking novels, each one an original treat in itself. This, however, is not a novel, but a true and moving account of a fight for emotional and psychological survival. If ever there were proof that behind every smile there is not necessarily always a world of sunshine and light, then Louise Beech is it. Her smile is hard won. It is that of someone who has not had it anywhere near easy and has emerged with dignity, compassion and most of all a great sense of humour aimed at putting others at ease. Because, despite everything, it is always her concern for others that shines through, for making sure everyone is OK, a maternal instinct that perhaps flourished at an early age when any maternal presence was at best unreliable, at worse, harmful. Daffodils is at times a harrowing story but it is also a story of survival, and of blossoming, like the eponymous daffodils. Coping mechanisms of dark humour and solidarity between siblings give an indication of how such an upbringing can be withstood - how we all should withstand by sticking by one another and looking after each other. The memoir begins with the shocking account of her own mother's suicide attempt and takes us back to a chaotic, often confusing childhood. Reading it I was moved to tears, given the kind of belly ache that comes with unease, made to ache with sympathy and also to laugh. Authors lay themselves bare in their fiction, but Louise has made the even braver decision to lay her life down in memoir. To listen to this story is to be reminded not to judge a book by its cover and to always, always be kind.
August 31, 2022
I thought this memoir was the best I've ever heard. Louise bears her soul through the horrendous ups and downs of her life. She was lucky enough to have siblings which were supportive and kept her going. I wish I had siblings like that, Throughout her life they have managed to keep the light in the dark. Through mental illness, alcoholism,and abuse both physical and mental she has become a world class author . Her books are amazing and I've yet to read a bad one. There is much humour in this memoir too. It is on audio at the moment but will come into print next year under the title of Eighteen Seconds. Please read it. It's not a misery memoir, it's a book full of love and hope. Well done Louise.
May 11, 2022
This is the root of the stories behind many of Louise's fictional characters. But this time, it isn't fiction. It's her own life. This is Louise's authentic, haunting, powerful and inspiring memoir. It has only been released in Audiobook and whatever the reasons for this, I'm glad. Lesley Harcourt narrates the highs and lows of Louise's life, she brings in the heart-breaking truths and the humour often used to deflect difficult circumstances. She makes you feel, as you listen and unpick your own life, that you aren't so alone. It's a story that needs to be told, and a book that needs to be heard.
Being able to find out the true inspiration behind books that I've read and loved, is both humbling and heart-breaking. I know from talking to Louise when I've reviewed some of her other books, that she is fiercely inspired by life around her and what she lives through. So it's not a complete shock. Nevertheless, Louise has lived (and often smiled!) through some very difficult times and has turned childhood and adulthood trauma, into something inspiring. Louise has told her story, I think, to help others unpick and understand theirs.
I wrote as I listened to this book. Perhaps another bonus of it being audiobook and therefore hands-free! I listened slowly. It's not a book to be rushed and I had to regularly take time away to read others, in completely different genres. But when I came back to it, I constantly jotted down notes and I learnt so much. I had recently read Louise's latest fictional publication, Nothing Else, which is out in paperback very soon. There is so much there, that has been inspired by Louise's life, but written into fiction, so many aspects of trauma to understand.
Trauma is not only what happens to us, but also what does not. It's the gaps where there should have been support, love, warmth, kindness and healing. When you realise that, it's actually incredibly eye-opening - and that's what this book has taught me. I started this book thinking it would be about the traumatic events that have shaped Louise and her present. It is, but it's so much more than that. It's all the things that didn't happen, that should have happened.
Being able to find out the true inspiration behind books that I've read and loved, is both humbling and heart-breaking. I know from talking to Louise when I've reviewed some of her other books, that she is fiercely inspired by life around her and what she lives through. So it's not a complete shock. Nevertheless, Louise has lived (and often smiled!) through some very difficult times and has turned childhood and adulthood trauma, into something inspiring. Louise has told her story, I think, to help others unpick and understand theirs.
I wrote as I listened to this book. Perhaps another bonus of it being audiobook and therefore hands-free! I listened slowly. It's not a book to be rushed and I had to regularly take time away to read others, in completely different genres. But when I came back to it, I constantly jotted down notes and I learnt so much. I had recently read Louise's latest fictional publication, Nothing Else, which is out in paperback very soon. There is so much there, that has been inspired by Louise's life, but written into fiction, so many aspects of trauma to understand.
Trauma is not only what happens to us, but also what does not. It's the gaps where there should have been support, love, warmth, kindness and healing. When you realise that, it's actually incredibly eye-opening - and that's what this book has taught me. I started this book thinking it would be about the traumatic events that have shaped Louise and her present. It is, but it's so much more than that. It's all the things that didn't happen, that should have happened.
June 17, 2022
Memoir of abuse, and the power of love
Having read, and loved, many of Louise Beech’s novels, I was excited to see that she had written her memoir. I have followed Louise on Twitter for many years, so I was expecting some shocking and upsetting content, but, as with her novels, the content of this memoir went so much deeper than I expected and drew me into a world that I would never have imagined having seen this author’s bright and sparkly “public persona”.
Some of this memoir was wonderful and gave added meaning to Louise's novels and an insight into her writing. Most of this memoir, however, revolved around the suicide attempts of Louise’s mother and the shocking and upsetting way she treated her children, even into their adulthood. There is humour between Louise and her 3 siblings, plus so much love and support for each other as they struggle to manage living with such a mother. Throughout the book personal memories from Louise’s brother and sisters are included.
There is also brightness in the descriptions of daffodils, their relevance becomes clear in the book, and each chapter is prefaced with something about daffodils.
This memoir is definitely an upsetting read containing child abuse and alcoholism, plus suicide attempts and the author expresses the hope that it will help others in a similar situation. Now, some weeks after finishing this audiobook I find my memories of it are mostly of the positive messages around supportive siblings (which could be translated into friends), and the final sentences (as with many of Louise Beech’s novels) are profound.
Having read, and loved, many of Louise Beech’s novels, I was excited to see that she had written her memoir. I have followed Louise on Twitter for many years, so I was expecting some shocking and upsetting content, but, as with her novels, the content of this memoir went so much deeper than I expected and drew me into a world that I would never have imagined having seen this author’s bright and sparkly “public persona”.
Some of this memoir was wonderful and gave added meaning to Louise's novels and an insight into her writing. Most of this memoir, however, revolved around the suicide attempts of Louise’s mother and the shocking and upsetting way she treated her children, even into their adulthood. There is humour between Louise and her 3 siblings, plus so much love and support for each other as they struggle to manage living with such a mother. Throughout the book personal memories from Louise’s brother and sisters are included.
There is also brightness in the descriptions of daffodils, their relevance becomes clear in the book, and each chapter is prefaced with something about daffodils.
This memoir is definitely an upsetting read containing child abuse and alcoholism, plus suicide attempts and the author expresses the hope that it will help others in a similar situation. Now, some weeks after finishing this audiobook I find my memories of it are mostly of the positive messages around supportive siblings (which could be translated into friends), and the final sentences (as with many of Louise Beech’s novels) are profound.
December 16, 2022
Another audio book.. started off slow but really enjoyed ….if you can enjoy the trauma a family experience through the attempted suicide of a parent and all that went before due to a neglectful parent
Told with honesty, great to get glimpses of siblings thought as well
Well read
Told with honesty, great to get glimpses of siblings thought as well
Well read
May 22, 2023
Beech tells two stories in parallel - her mother's recovery after a failed suicide attempt (she jumped off a bridge, miraculously survived but was left with shattered legs), and her traumatic childhood, one where Beech and her three siblings lived with their mother's drinking and her various (abusive) boyfriends, intermittenly spending time in care while their mother was in a psychiatric hospital.
Beech draws on her siblings' memories in some parts and although the various voices made the memoir a little disjointed as an audio, much was redeemed by the the final chapter, which recounts a letter Louise and her siblings wrote to their mother naming the times when she had chosen alcohol over her children. It's a powerful and blunt piece of writing and provides a stark contrast to the humour the children had used to get through managing their relationship with their mother. This is not a 'happy ending' memoir but you get the sense that Beech has found a sense of peace within her family.
Beech draws on her siblings' memories in some parts and although the various voices made the memoir a little disjointed as an audio, much was redeemed by the the final chapter, which recounts a letter Louise and her siblings wrote to their mother naming the times when she had chosen alcohol over her children. It's a powerful and blunt piece of writing and provides a stark contrast to the humour the children had used to get through managing their relationship with their mother. This is not a 'happy ending' memoir but you get the sense that Beech has found a sense of peace within her family.
January 10, 2025
Such a great book. Thank you for sharing it with us Louise.
June 14, 2022
A good book and very moving but for some reason I couldn't get properly onto it. Maybe I was expecting something different? I come from Hull and was hoping therefore for a connection which unfortunately didn't happen. Think the fault maybe with me, and my expectations, rather than the book.
July 9, 2022
When it comes to audio books I often listen to memoirs but I wasn’t quite prepared for this one though.
This is a very frank account of Louise Beech’s life growing up. It details her journey as an author and the influence her life had on her characters in her fiction novels, an account of her family and the hard truths alcoholism can have on you growing up and as an adult.
It told a sad, heartbreaking and emotional novel, yet was peppered with uplifting content and humour in parts as she tells the story of her journey with her mother’s alcoholism, the effects it had on her and her siblings as well as her own personal recovery as she came out of the other side of what was clearly a difficult childhood.
Parts were hard to read but were very honest. I admire Louise for sharing her story and the things she went through growing up into a life free of this conflict.
What I found with this story is that it had many layers, once you open your eyes (or ears) and read through her words, it reveals so much more than just her story. It also opens up enlightenment of how her life should have been, had she had the love and support she so very much needed and should have had. In this realisation it makes you take note, act upon and also gives hope with the parts you’ll take away to become a better person yourself to ensure your meeting your own children’s needs in all ways. I feel this underlying message, not all people will see and take note of. It’s a story that needs to be savoured to experience all the author intends.
In sharing her story I hope she helps others who like her have had a difficult upbringing.
This is a very frank account of Louise Beech’s life growing up. It details her journey as an author and the influence her life had on her characters in her fiction novels, an account of her family and the hard truths alcoholism can have on you growing up and as an adult.
It told a sad, heartbreaking and emotional novel, yet was peppered with uplifting content and humour in parts as she tells the story of her journey with her mother’s alcoholism, the effects it had on her and her siblings as well as her own personal recovery as she came out of the other side of what was clearly a difficult childhood.
Parts were hard to read but were very honest. I admire Louise for sharing her story and the things she went through growing up into a life free of this conflict.
What I found with this story is that it had many layers, once you open your eyes (or ears) and read through her words, it reveals so much more than just her story. It also opens up enlightenment of how her life should have been, had she had the love and support she so very much needed and should have had. In this realisation it makes you take note, act upon and also gives hope with the parts you’ll take away to become a better person yourself to ensure your meeting your own children’s needs in all ways. I feel this underlying message, not all people will see and take note of. It’s a story that needs to be savoured to experience all the author intends.
In sharing her story I hope she helps others who like her have had a difficult upbringing.
May 27, 2023
"This is my story. No fiction to hide behind."
February 2019. As author Louise Beech took her usual morning walk she paused to photograph some early daffodils she was surprised to see. Five hours later she gets the devastating news that her mother has jumped from the Humber Bridge. Had Louise not stopped to take that photograph, she might have been there when it happened.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so it feels like the perfect time to be sharing this review. Powerful, poignant and heart-wrenching, Eighteen Seconds is the true story of Louise’s life and the aftermath of the harrowing event that shook her family to its core. It was hard-hitting and emotional from the start, and I cried many times while listening to the audio version of this book. But this is Louise Beech, and even the most solemn of stories cannot be told without her trademark wit, and there is lots of laughter amongst the tears. However, this isn’t only her story. It is also the story of her family, and includes interviews and quotes from her siblings and other family members that discuss how events impacted them. The strong bond Ms. Beech shares with her siblings is clear to see, and I loved their banter and their sense of humour, which they use as a coping mechanism and a way to lighten the darkest of times. I loved her reflections of her grandmother and the special relationship they shared. These were deeply moving and made me think of my own Nan, who I was very close to.
"... humour is the wonky mirror for emotions often too difficult to look at directly."
This isn’t an easy read, but it is an important one, featuring topics such as trauma, mental health, suicide, and abuse. It also highlights how dysfunction, pain and trauma don’t only affect us in that moment, but our whole lives, with ripple effects trickling down through the generations as we attempt to not only survive, but flourish, and break those harmful cycles. And Louise seems to have achieved this. Her love for her own children shines brightest of all in this book and it is evident she is a wonderful mother. I admired her ability to help her children through their problems while navigating her own pain and breaking those toxic cycles.
"I discovered the one thing that thawed me: writing."
There is no question that Beech is a talented author. She is one of my favourite authors and I’ve loved every book of hers that I’ve read. Consequently, I expected this book to be well written, but I was unprepared for just how beautiful, potent and unflinching her prose would be this time around. The narration was fantastic and perfectly conveyed the appropriate emotions for the listener while bringing to life those whose stories are being told. Though my own story is obviously different, her story resonated with me on a personal level in many ways, particularly the exploration of the effects of trauma in chapter five. I laughed, cried, raged, and felt every emotion in between as I was swept away by this phenomenal and courageous memoir.
Eighteen Seconds is a tableau of heartbreak, healing, and forgiveness that demands to be read. Piercingly frank, raw, heartrending, and courageous, it never shies away from the pain and messiness of family and life, striking a resonant chord as it pulls on your heartstrings and then ties them back together with uplifting humour. Louise’s story is one I will never forget and I applaud her for being brave enough to share it with the world. It is a reminder that those who have been through the greatest pain often have the kindest hearts and brightest smiles, and my admiration for this author has grown after reading her story.
Bravo, Louise, and thank you.
February 2019. As author Louise Beech took her usual morning walk she paused to photograph some early daffodils she was surprised to see. Five hours later she gets the devastating news that her mother has jumped from the Humber Bridge. Had Louise not stopped to take that photograph, she might have been there when it happened.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so it feels like the perfect time to be sharing this review. Powerful, poignant and heart-wrenching, Eighteen Seconds is the true story of Louise’s life and the aftermath of the harrowing event that shook her family to its core. It was hard-hitting and emotional from the start, and I cried many times while listening to the audio version of this book. But this is Louise Beech, and even the most solemn of stories cannot be told without her trademark wit, and there is lots of laughter amongst the tears. However, this isn’t only her story. It is also the story of her family, and includes interviews and quotes from her siblings and other family members that discuss how events impacted them. The strong bond Ms. Beech shares with her siblings is clear to see, and I loved their banter and their sense of humour, which they use as a coping mechanism and a way to lighten the darkest of times. I loved her reflections of her grandmother and the special relationship they shared. These were deeply moving and made me think of my own Nan, who I was very close to.
"... humour is the wonky mirror for emotions often too difficult to look at directly."
This isn’t an easy read, but it is an important one, featuring topics such as trauma, mental health, suicide, and abuse. It also highlights how dysfunction, pain and trauma don’t only affect us in that moment, but our whole lives, with ripple effects trickling down through the generations as we attempt to not only survive, but flourish, and break those harmful cycles. And Louise seems to have achieved this. Her love for her own children shines brightest of all in this book and it is evident she is a wonderful mother. I admired her ability to help her children through their problems while navigating her own pain and breaking those toxic cycles.
"I discovered the one thing that thawed me: writing."
There is no question that Beech is a talented author. She is one of my favourite authors and I’ve loved every book of hers that I’ve read. Consequently, I expected this book to be well written, but I was unprepared for just how beautiful, potent and unflinching her prose would be this time around. The narration was fantastic and perfectly conveyed the appropriate emotions for the listener while bringing to life those whose stories are being told. Though my own story is obviously different, her story resonated with me on a personal level in many ways, particularly the exploration of the effects of trauma in chapter five. I laughed, cried, raged, and felt every emotion in between as I was swept away by this phenomenal and courageous memoir.
Eighteen Seconds is a tableau of heartbreak, healing, and forgiveness that demands to be read. Piercingly frank, raw, heartrending, and courageous, it never shies away from the pain and messiness of family and life, striking a resonant chord as it pulls on your heartstrings and then ties them back together with uplifting humour. Louise’s story is one I will never forget and I applaud her for being brave enough to share it with the world. It is a reminder that those who have been through the greatest pain often have the kindest hearts and brightest smiles, and my admiration for this author has grown after reading her story.
Bravo, Louise, and thank you.
April 20, 2022
This is a memoir of Beech’s life. I spoke to her before its realease and she very kindly provided me a copy for review. Understandably she was very nervous about its release as its not her usual form of fiction, not fiction at all in fact. Unlike her usual books this one has only been released as an audiobook, though I was lucky enough to receive a written copy. I have also listened to the audio copy though as I was interested in how it was narrated so this review applies to both.
Daffodils is a beautiful memoir of Louise Beech’s life from a small child to more recently. It chronicles her life with her siblings living with a mother who was an alcoholic, a chronic depressive and attempted suicide. Its not a cheerful happy story by any means and its obvious why she was nervous to share such a personal memoir.
Daffodils starts with a chilling opening scene with her mother jumping off the Humber Bridge. What follows is deeply moving, an exploration of Beech’s childhood, how things affected her and her siblings and the resulting confusion. This is a harrowing account of a family torn apart and an inspiring look at Beech’s natural maternal instinct, caring for her siblings, protecting and nurturing them during such difficult times and then onto an uplifting account, offering hope to many who have been in similar situations.
I enjoyed Louise Beech’s previous novel, This is how we are Human which I enjoyed but while this is a memoir, her writing skill shows through providing a beautifully written account which includes care records, excerpts of letters, poetry and on occasion almost a stream of consciousness. I only hope this was a therapeutic understaking as it certainly feels like it to read or listen to.
While it feels wrong to say, I loved the dark humour and banter between the siblings, a coping mechanism no doubt. They have not had it easy but they have emerged with dignity, compassion and love.
I can only admire Louise Beech’s bavery in sharing this often raw and no doubt traumatic account of her childhood. To write it as therapy is one thing but to release it to the world and lay yourself bare is incredibly brave, I don’t even have the words to describe how this must feel to go through. The bravery has paid off though, this is an excellent memoir, inspiring to anyone who has been in a remotely similar situation, giving hope ti thousands of people, perhaps especially young people who need tohear that things can work out, that bad experiences can be overcome and good relationships are possible despite a bad start.
Well done Louise, this is excellent and I feel immensely priveldged to have spoken to you and to have had the opportunity to review this for you. all opinions are my own and have not been influenced un any way.
I will never look at daffodils again without thinking of you. sometimes I think when we view successful authors everything appears to be so easy for them, but this shows not to judge a book by its cover, always be kind as you have no idea what a person is going through and that there is always hope for a better future.
Daffodils is currently only available as an audiobook, but I hope it will be available in other formats shortly. The narrator, Lesley Harcourt, does a brilliant job of narrating this book and has a lovely soothing voice.
Special thanks to Louise Beech for a special opportunity to review this and read such a profound book.
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Daffodils is a beautiful memoir of Louise Beech’s life from a small child to more recently. It chronicles her life with her siblings living with a mother who was an alcoholic, a chronic depressive and attempted suicide. Its not a cheerful happy story by any means and its obvious why she was nervous to share such a personal memoir.
Daffodils starts with a chilling opening scene with her mother jumping off the Humber Bridge. What follows is deeply moving, an exploration of Beech’s childhood, how things affected her and her siblings and the resulting confusion. This is a harrowing account of a family torn apart and an inspiring look at Beech’s natural maternal instinct, caring for her siblings, protecting and nurturing them during such difficult times and then onto an uplifting account, offering hope to many who have been in similar situations.
I enjoyed Louise Beech’s previous novel, This is how we are Human which I enjoyed but while this is a memoir, her writing skill shows through providing a beautifully written account which includes care records, excerpts of letters, poetry and on occasion almost a stream of consciousness. I only hope this was a therapeutic understaking as it certainly feels like it to read or listen to.
While it feels wrong to say, I loved the dark humour and banter between the siblings, a coping mechanism no doubt. They have not had it easy but they have emerged with dignity, compassion and love.
I can only admire Louise Beech’s bavery in sharing this often raw and no doubt traumatic account of her childhood. To write it as therapy is one thing but to release it to the world and lay yourself bare is incredibly brave, I don’t even have the words to describe how this must feel to go through. The bravery has paid off though, this is an excellent memoir, inspiring to anyone who has been in a remotely similar situation, giving hope ti thousands of people, perhaps especially young people who need tohear that things can work out, that bad experiences can be overcome and good relationships are possible despite a bad start.
Well done Louise, this is excellent and I feel immensely priveldged to have spoken to you and to have had the opportunity to review this for you. all opinions are my own and have not been influenced un any way.
I will never look at daffodils again without thinking of you. sometimes I think when we view successful authors everything appears to be so easy for them, but this shows not to judge a book by its cover, always be kind as you have no idea what a person is going through and that there is always hope for a better future.
Daffodils is currently only available as an audiobook, but I hope it will be available in other formats shortly. The narrator, Lesley Harcourt, does a brilliant job of narrating this book and has a lovely soothing voice.
Special thanks to Louise Beech for a special opportunity to review this and read such a profound book.
More reviews on my blog follow me on Instagram follow me on twitter
April 24, 2022
During the successive lockdowns, many of those of us without children to home school or not working from home spent our time perfecting our recipes for banana bread, decluttering our homes, or investigating the full range of our Netflix subscriptions. Louise Beech wrote two novels (one as yet unpublished) – and, although she was still dealing with the difficult aftermath of her mother’s suicide attempt, she also turned it into an opportunity to set out her personal story, exploring her memories of her difficult childhood and all the events that led up to her mother’s dramatic act, filling the gaps in her memory with extracts from her care records and the recollections and anecdotes of her close family (her sisters, her brother, and their mother’s brother Edwin).
You’ll notice that this book (quite rightly) has a “suicide” content warning – but there were other elements of this brave and beautifully written account that had a much deeper impact. The book explores the extraordinary bond she developed with her siblings, recording a catalogue of appalling neglect, focusing on key moments, reflecting on the reasons why they happened and the legacy that they left her with. Their mother – an alcoholic and depressive, but perhaps with more complex psychological issues that the book explores – felt that she deserved a life of her own, but the impact of that on her confused young family frequently moved me to tears and made me desperately grateful for my own stable and loving family upbringing. There is love here too though – Louise becomes, by default, the mother figure to the rest of her family, and the warmth of their bond is what lifts the darkness through the most difficult experiences.
You might expect this book to be unremittingly sad and emotional – but, perhaps surprisingly, it most certainly isn’t. It’s written in a conversational style, directly addressing the reader – and I really must say that Lesley Harcourt captures the author’s unique and distinctive voice quite perfectly – and at times, particularly as the family negotiate all the hurdles towards sorting out their mother’s future care, the humour is simply wonderful (I particularly loved the exchanges in the WhatsApp group). And another thing I really enjoyed was being able to see the sources of inspiration behind the novels I’ve loved – and the way her passion for writing sustained and lifted her through the most difficult times.
Writing this book – and delving into the memories that shaped it – was an extraordinarily brave act. It’s raw, emotional, and searingly honest – her life behind the smile laid bare, as the family moved towards making the most difficult of decisions about their future. And it’s very clear that this was an account that she felt she really needed to write – although it’s an intensely personal story, she really wanted it to prompt conversations and allow others to similarly explore their experiences and reach the same level of understanding. And she should be inordinately proud of what she’s achieved – a story of survival, of immense courage and resilience, both moving and uplifting, and filled with hope for the future.
You’ll notice that this book (quite rightly) has a “suicide” content warning – but there were other elements of this brave and beautifully written account that had a much deeper impact. The book explores the extraordinary bond she developed with her siblings, recording a catalogue of appalling neglect, focusing on key moments, reflecting on the reasons why they happened and the legacy that they left her with. Their mother – an alcoholic and depressive, but perhaps with more complex psychological issues that the book explores – felt that she deserved a life of her own, but the impact of that on her confused young family frequently moved me to tears and made me desperately grateful for my own stable and loving family upbringing. There is love here too though – Louise becomes, by default, the mother figure to the rest of her family, and the warmth of their bond is what lifts the darkness through the most difficult experiences.
You might expect this book to be unremittingly sad and emotional – but, perhaps surprisingly, it most certainly isn’t. It’s written in a conversational style, directly addressing the reader – and I really must say that Lesley Harcourt captures the author’s unique and distinctive voice quite perfectly – and at times, particularly as the family negotiate all the hurdles towards sorting out their mother’s future care, the humour is simply wonderful (I particularly loved the exchanges in the WhatsApp group). And another thing I really enjoyed was being able to see the sources of inspiration behind the novels I’ve loved – and the way her passion for writing sustained and lifted her through the most difficult times.
Writing this book – and delving into the memories that shaped it – was an extraordinarily brave act. It’s raw, emotional, and searingly honest – her life behind the smile laid bare, as the family moved towards making the most difficult of decisions about their future. And it’s very clear that this was an account that she felt she really needed to write – although it’s an intensely personal story, she really wanted it to prompt conversations and allow others to similarly explore their experiences and reach the same level of understanding. And she should be inordinately proud of what she’s achieved – a story of survival, of immense courage and resilience, both moving and uplifting, and filled with hope for the future.
May 31, 2022
Daffodils is the memoirs of author Louise Beech as she shares the most intimate details of her childhood through to adulthood.
There are some dark and heart-breaking moments in this book but as difficult to read as these are, the strength and unity of Louise, her uncle and her siblings shines through and creates a surprisingly heart-warming narrative. For me, I loved the humour and togetherness of Louise’s family but this is a story that needed to be told – that people need to be aware of and is much more common than we dare to think about and there needs to me a higher awareness. Trauma isn’t just about the time of event, it’s about the years afterwards of trying to process and reconcile thoughts and feelings. It’s about healing and a constant narrative in your head telling you cannot trust and you are not safe. Louise really expresses how this feels and the impact early trauma has had on her life, even to this day.
Every time I have read a Louise Beech book I am always left feeling that it is so much more than a work of fiction, that it contains a part of her. I believe that she uses her personal passions and experiences to fuel her storytelling and I after reading Daffodils I feel this is strongly evident. I found myself making links with some of her characters, plots and settings (and in some cases Louise does this herself).
Reading Daffodils is such an intimate experience. It’s like sitting with a friend whilst they tell you their innermost thoughts and experiences and leave themselves totally vulnerable in your hands. At times it felt as though I was invading someone’s privacy, being part of something I had no right to be part of.
Louise had laid her heart and soul bare and in doing so has given the world much needed insight and first hand understanding into the effects and aftermath of trauma on everyone involved. But also, how the power of love and humour can help begin to repair some of those damages. I wish all the best for Louise and her family in moving forward and supporting each other through the more difficult times they have, and still may face.
Daffodils is a powerful but beautiful memoir of Louise’s experiences and should be read with the knowledge that it goes to some dark places – including suicide, physical, emotional and sexual abuse and neglect and mental health issues.
Thank You Louise for sharing your experiences and for allowing me into your world. It has given me a much stronger and deeper understanding of some people in my life and for that I am eternally grateful.
I now cannot walk past a daffodil without thinking about Louise (in a good way).
There are some dark and heart-breaking moments in this book but as difficult to read as these are, the strength and unity of Louise, her uncle and her siblings shines through and creates a surprisingly heart-warming narrative. For me, I loved the humour and togetherness of Louise’s family but this is a story that needed to be told – that people need to be aware of and is much more common than we dare to think about and there needs to me a higher awareness. Trauma isn’t just about the time of event, it’s about the years afterwards of trying to process and reconcile thoughts and feelings. It’s about healing and a constant narrative in your head telling you cannot trust and you are not safe. Louise really expresses how this feels and the impact early trauma has had on her life, even to this day.
Every time I have read a Louise Beech book I am always left feeling that it is so much more than a work of fiction, that it contains a part of her. I believe that she uses her personal passions and experiences to fuel her storytelling and I after reading Daffodils I feel this is strongly evident. I found myself making links with some of her characters, plots and settings (and in some cases Louise does this herself).
Reading Daffodils is such an intimate experience. It’s like sitting with a friend whilst they tell you their innermost thoughts and experiences and leave themselves totally vulnerable in your hands. At times it felt as though I was invading someone’s privacy, being part of something I had no right to be part of.
Louise had laid her heart and soul bare and in doing so has given the world much needed insight and first hand understanding into the effects and aftermath of trauma on everyone involved. But also, how the power of love and humour can help begin to repair some of those damages. I wish all the best for Louise and her family in moving forward and supporting each other through the more difficult times they have, and still may face.
Daffodils is a powerful but beautiful memoir of Louise’s experiences and should be read with the knowledge that it goes to some dark places – including suicide, physical, emotional and sexual abuse and neglect and mental health issues.
Thank You Louise for sharing your experiences and for allowing me into your world. It has given me a much stronger and deeper understanding of some people in my life and for that I am eternally grateful.
I now cannot walk past a daffodil without thinking about Louise (in a good way).
April 7, 2022
Even though I haven’t read all of Louise Beech’s books, I have known of her and followed her for years. She comes across as vivacious, empathetic and great, great fun. Anyone observing her on social media, whether she’s walking for charity or appearing at a book launch, would assume her joie de vivre, charisma and confidence are the result of a happy, safe, secure childhood.
Daffodils therefore stunned me. It is Louise’s shocking, brutally honest account of an abusive childhood. Digging into her past, trying to remember the horrors she had suppressed must have been enormously emotional and frightening. I found this a desperately sad read, only lightened by the wonderful relationship between Louise, her siblings and uncle, together with the hilarious WhatsApp humour and banter they used to cope.
Louise, her twin sisters and brother grew up with a narcissistic, alcoholic mother prone to depression. As little children they had to deal with situations no child should ever have to bear. They suffered utter neglect with their mother often choosing unsuitable men over her own children. My heart ached for them. And yet this book is devoid of self-pity, or appeals for sympathy. Louise simply relates the grim facts of their early lives and how they dealt with them (often with humour). She chronicles family relationships – some totally dysfunctional, and others, like those with their beloved Grandma Roberts, totally perfect.
I was filled with disgust at the behaviour of a number of adults who featured in Louise’s childhood, and am amazed she is so successful today. She’s an award-winning author, in a long-term marriage and has a great relationship with her own children.
I loved the parts of this memoir that dealt with her books, the way she writes, and her painful journey of rejections and disappointments on her road to publication. Particularly I loved how she never gave up, despite her mother having manged to instill in her a huge sense of worthlessness.
Louise mixes up the way she reveals her story. There are conventional chapters, some almost stream-of-consciousness parts, snippets of poetry, excerpts from her care records and powerful letters. The thoughts and memories of her significant others are also recorded, helping to round out Louise’s story. These all keep Daffodils compelling, as do the fascinating titbits about daffodils to start each chapter.
This is not an easy read, but an utterly gripping one.
Daffodils is currently only available as an audiobook, but I hope it will be launched in other formats very soon.
Daffodils therefore stunned me. It is Louise’s shocking, brutally honest account of an abusive childhood. Digging into her past, trying to remember the horrors she had suppressed must have been enormously emotional and frightening. I found this a desperately sad read, only lightened by the wonderful relationship between Louise, her siblings and uncle, together with the hilarious WhatsApp humour and banter they used to cope.
Louise, her twin sisters and brother grew up with a narcissistic, alcoholic mother prone to depression. As little children they had to deal with situations no child should ever have to bear. They suffered utter neglect with their mother often choosing unsuitable men over her own children. My heart ached for them. And yet this book is devoid of self-pity, or appeals for sympathy. Louise simply relates the grim facts of their early lives and how they dealt with them (often with humour). She chronicles family relationships – some totally dysfunctional, and others, like those with their beloved Grandma Roberts, totally perfect.
I was filled with disgust at the behaviour of a number of adults who featured in Louise’s childhood, and am amazed she is so successful today. She’s an award-winning author, in a long-term marriage and has a great relationship with her own children.
I loved the parts of this memoir that dealt with her books, the way she writes, and her painful journey of rejections and disappointments on her road to publication. Particularly I loved how she never gave up, despite her mother having manged to instill in her a huge sense of worthlessness.
Louise mixes up the way she reveals her story. There are conventional chapters, some almost stream-of-consciousness parts, snippets of poetry, excerpts from her care records and powerful letters. The thoughts and memories of her significant others are also recorded, helping to round out Louise’s story. These all keep Daffodils compelling, as do the fascinating titbits about daffodils to start each chapter.
This is not an easy read, but an utterly gripping one.
Daffodils is currently only available as an audiobook, but I hope it will be launched in other formats very soon.
April 17, 2022
Daffodils is the story of a harrowing childhood and the effects that it had throughout the lives of four siblings.
I am a huge fan of this authors literary fiction and had I not known it was a memoir, I would have easily believed this was also one. But it isn't. Louise is bravely telling her life story.
Told in the same beautifully lyrical way, but with the dark and humourous undertones that any followers of Louise will recognise, it starts with the horrific telling of the morning they found out their mother had jumped from the Humber Bridge, a place Louise had been just hours earlier. We follow the aftermath of this event and we also go back to what was a very difficult childhood for them all and goes a long way to explaining the relationship they have with their mother now.
A narcissistic mother whose distinct lack of any enduring maternal instinct, and who many times was the main cause of their trauma meant that, as the eldest, Louise had to grow up fast and at a very young age took on that role for all of her siblings. Listening to how they had got so used to their life that they didn't bother crying or asking for help when ill or hurt was utterly heartbreaking, but what shone through was their love for each other. Enduring to this day and manifesting in only the kind of dark humour siblings can get away with, it was heartwarming to see them all still sticking together and cracking jokes in a whatsapp group in the most difficult of times.
This must have been so hard to write, but for it to be told in such a moving and hopeful way is testament to the character of the author.
I am a huge fan of this authors literary fiction and had I not known it was a memoir, I would have easily believed this was also one. But it isn't. Louise is bravely telling her life story.
Told in the same beautifully lyrical way, but with the dark and humourous undertones that any followers of Louise will recognise, it starts with the horrific telling of the morning they found out their mother had jumped from the Humber Bridge, a place Louise had been just hours earlier. We follow the aftermath of this event and we also go back to what was a very difficult childhood for them all and goes a long way to explaining the relationship they have with their mother now.
A narcissistic mother whose distinct lack of any enduring maternal instinct, and who many times was the main cause of their trauma meant that, as the eldest, Louise had to grow up fast and at a very young age took on that role for all of her siblings. Listening to how they had got so used to their life that they didn't bother crying or asking for help when ill or hurt was utterly heartbreaking, but what shone through was their love for each other. Enduring to this day and manifesting in only the kind of dark humour siblings can get away with, it was heartwarming to see them all still sticking together and cracking jokes in a whatsapp group in the most difficult of times.
This must have been so hard to write, but for it to be told in such a moving and hopeful way is testament to the character of the author.
April 15, 2022
It took me two days and a few separate sittings to get through this book. My first audio book which I wasn’t sure about in case it detracted from Louise’s voice. I needn’t have worried at all. Lesley Harcourt narrates it in a sensitive and realistic way.
This is a shocking recounting not just of Louise’s mothers attempt at suicide, but it goes right back into the childhood of Louise and her siblings. The things remembered, the things forgotten.
Their childhood was a harrowing one. There are some rays of sunshine. Her Granny who took her and her sisters in when they needed her to. She sounded like a wonderful woman. The other thing was the love her husband has quite obviously for her, and she him. Last but definitely not least the strength of the bond that she and her siblings have due to this. Basically, Louise was their mother from a very young age. They suffered from a narcissistic mother, who Louise did everything possible to protect them from. They now have a wonderful dark sense of humour, that only people who experience trauma develop.
This is a raw, emotional and honest book and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys a memoir.
This is a shocking recounting not just of Louise’s mothers attempt at suicide, but it goes right back into the childhood of Louise and her siblings. The things remembered, the things forgotten.
Their childhood was a harrowing one. There are some rays of sunshine. Her Granny who took her and her sisters in when they needed her to. She sounded like a wonderful woman. The other thing was the love her husband has quite obviously for her, and she him. Last but definitely not least the strength of the bond that she and her siblings have due to this. Basically, Louise was their mother from a very young age. They suffered from a narcissistic mother, who Louise did everything possible to protect them from. They now have a wonderful dark sense of humour, that only people who experience trauma develop.
This is a raw, emotional and honest book and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys a memoir.
May 13, 2022
I am a loyal Louise Beech fan, but this particular piece - her first work of non-fiction, which bravely exams the legacy of her childhood trauma in the aftermath of a family crisis - has absolutely floored me.
With Daffodils, Louise has artfully unfolded a very personal and difficult tale in a superbly expert fashion - cutting it with humor and placing it alongside the universal trauma we have globally faced in the wake of Covid-19.
I simply cannot praise this book enough. If I should ever make good on all of the times I've said that I'm going to write my own memoir someday, then Louise's book will be there to provide me with a shining example of how to approach such a delicate undertaking - how best to lay it out, how to lay bare those painful snapshots from the past.
I have watched Louise's skills as a writer develop year by year, with each new publication. She is enviably prolific - a true-born storyteller.
Her memoir has touched me deeply and I am extremely grateful that she chose to share her words with the world.
With Daffodils, Louise has artfully unfolded a very personal and difficult tale in a superbly expert fashion - cutting it with humor and placing it alongside the universal trauma we have globally faced in the wake of Covid-19.
I simply cannot praise this book enough. If I should ever make good on all of the times I've said that I'm going to write my own memoir someday, then Louise's book will be there to provide me with a shining example of how to approach such a delicate undertaking - how best to lay it out, how to lay bare those painful snapshots from the past.
I have watched Louise's skills as a writer develop year by year, with each new publication. She is enviably prolific - a true-born storyteller.
Her memoir has touched me deeply and I am extremely grateful that she chose to share her words with the world.
December 18, 2024
I will happily admit that it was the cover that drew me in. Daffodils are my favourite flowers and so how could I not?
I have read a fiction book by this author, I am dust, which I super enjoyed but this is a memoir which she decided to write her her Mum tried to take her own life. The book details the current time and the impact that has on herself and her siblings but also traces back through their childhood using a combination of their memories and social services records and reports.
The result is an incredibly raw and honest account of growing up with a narcissistic Mother with serious mental health problems. I found the writing utterly compelling and really admire how the author told this painful story in a way that doesn't excuse any of what happened but also refrains from being mean.
I also highly recommend the audio. It is a really well done. I found it so easy to listen to and zipped through it in about 3 days.
I have read a fiction book by this author, I am dust, which I super enjoyed but this is a memoir which she decided to write her her Mum tried to take her own life. The book details the current time and the impact that has on herself and her siblings but also traces back through their childhood using a combination of their memories and social services records and reports.
The result is an incredibly raw and honest account of growing up with a narcissistic Mother with serious mental health problems. I found the writing utterly compelling and really admire how the author told this painful story in a way that doesn't excuse any of what happened but also refrains from being mean.
I also highly recommend the audio. It is a really well done. I found it so easy to listen to and zipped through it in about 3 days.
June 3, 2022
Louise Beech didn't have a straightforward childhood with reliable parents to make her feel safe and as this memoir reveals the consequences can reach well into the future. What I loved was that Louise, and her three siblings show a tenacity and sense of humour that many others in her type of situation use to 'make it through.' I like that because all too often tales of quite frankly horrid childhoods intimate that once the die is cast. Let's just say some of the humour resonated with this listener.
This memoir covers her mother's attempted suicide in 2019 and Louise's writing of the book during lockdown in 2020, but the roots go way back into the past, the uncovering of social care records and reveals some of the gaps in memory that lie within us all.
A brave and honest reconstruction made all the more powerful by the tone of the retelling.
This memoir covers her mother's attempted suicide in 2019 and Louise's writing of the book during lockdown in 2020, but the roots go way back into the past, the uncovering of social care records and reveals some of the gaps in memory that lie within us all.
A brave and honest reconstruction made all the more powerful by the tone of the retelling.
April 6, 2022
Daffodils is a powerful and heartbreaking memoir of grief and recovery that's also full of hope and inspiration. Louise Beech writes beautifully, with compassion and gentle humour, as she reveals details of her traumatic childhood, her mother's shocking suicide attempt and how she and her siblings eventually made difficult decisions and learnt to move on with their lives. Daffodils made me cry, especially after the final pages, but it also made me smile and feel inspired to tackle life's challenges head on. Highly recommended!
June 13, 2022
I find memoirs so interesting and this one is definitely one of the more revealing ones I’ve read. It’s also distressing, emotional, breathtakingly honest and also humorous.
Louise is so brave to open up as much as she has in this book and I truly admire her for that as a lot of the content of this book is harrowing as to what herself and her family have gone through.
Very well written, and delivered beautifully by the narrator.
Louise is so brave to open up as much as she has in this book and I truly admire her for that as a lot of the content of this book is harrowing as to what herself and her family have gone through.
Very well written, and delivered beautifully by the narrator.
March 8, 2025
oddly i was scrolling my australian library app and came across this, not realising it was about my local town in england. heartbreaking because i could ask anyone from home about the humber bridge and we’d all have ties to it. a very relatable listen!
April 6, 2022
Moving, thought provoking, brave, powerful, honest and completely beautiful xx
March 24, 2023
Devastatingly sad but not depressing. What a brave woman and a wonderful writer Louise is, I’m looking forward to reading her novels now. Loved the way she spoke of her siblings and children.
May 12, 2023
Beautifully narrated.
A heartbreaking story which will touch all of us.
A heartbreaking story which will touch all of us.
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