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The Tricky Art of Forgiveness
After thirty years of marriage, can there be any secrets left? The charming new novel from the author of The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison
Diana Forsyth is in the midst of planning the Big Party, a combined celebration of her husband Will's 60th and their 30th wedding anniversary. The whole family is flying in and unbeknownst to Will, Diana is planning a Big Surprise.
But then she finds a torn scrap of paper hidden inside the folds of one of his cashmere sweaters, with the words, I forgive you. And all of a sudden, Diana realises she's not the only one keeping Big Secrets.
As empty nesters who have just downsized from the family home, she and Will are supposed to be embracing a new promise of glorious freedom - not revisiting a past that Diana has worked very hard to leave behind.
A witty, poignant and insightful exploration of the choices we make - or don't make, the resentments we hold, the lies we tell and what forgiveness really means.
Praise for The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah
'A heart-warming tale of friendship, forgiveness and redemption, written with a warmth and intimacy that is immediately engaging' The Australian
'Funny and moving' Sun-Herald
'Overflowing with humour and heart' Natasha Lester
'A warm, deft and funny story where unlikely people show us what's important' Rosalie Ham
'This deliciously original, immersive and darkly funny novel is full of hope and heart. A refreshing take on the theme of redemption and second chances from an assured writer.' Joanna Nell
Diana Forsyth is in the midst of planning the Big Party, a combined celebration of her husband Will's 60th and their 30th wedding anniversary. The whole family is flying in and unbeknownst to Will, Diana is planning a Big Surprise.
But then she finds a torn scrap of paper hidden inside the folds of one of his cashmere sweaters, with the words, I forgive you. And all of a sudden, Diana realises she's not the only one keeping Big Secrets.
As empty nesters who have just downsized from the family home, she and Will are supposed to be embracing a new promise of glorious freedom - not revisiting a past that Diana has worked very hard to leave behind.
A witty, poignant and insightful exploration of the choices we make - or don't make, the resentments we hold, the lies we tell and what forgiveness really means.
Praise for The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah
'A heart-warming tale of friendship, forgiveness and redemption, written with a warmth and intimacy that is immediately engaging' The Australian
'Funny and moving' Sun-Herald
'Overflowing with humour and heart' Natasha Lester
'A warm, deft and funny story where unlikely people show us what's important' Rosalie Ham
'This deliciously original, immersive and darkly funny novel is full of hope and heart. A refreshing take on the theme of redemption and second chances from an assured writer.' Joanna Nell
- GenresContemporary
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 2, 2022
19 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Meredith Jaffe
6 books88 followersMeredith Jaffé is the author of four novels for adults— The Tricky Art of Forgiveness (2022), The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison (2021), The Making of Christina (2017) and The Fence (2016.) Her bestselling novel, The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison, was voted in the 2021 Booktopia Favourite Australian Book Award Top 50 and the 2022 Better Reading Top 100. She also writes for children.
She is the former Festival Director of StoryFest, held on the NSW South Coast, and regularly facilitates at other writers’ festivals, literary lunches and author events. In a previous life, she wrote the weekly literary column for the online women’s magazine The Hoopla. Her reviews, author interviews, feature articles and opinion pieces have appeared in The Hoopla, Australian Author, the Guardian Australia, The Huffington Post and Mamamia.
Her reviewing policy is to only post comments on books she truly enjoyed and wants to share with other readers.
She is the former Festival Director of StoryFest, held on the NSW South Coast, and regularly facilitates at other writers’ festivals, literary lunches and author events. In a previous life, she wrote the weekly literary column for the online women’s magazine The Hoopla. Her reviews, author interviews, feature articles and opinion pieces have appeared in The Hoopla, Australian Author, the Guardian Australia, The Huffington Post and Mamamia.
Her reviewing policy is to only post comments on books she truly enjoyed and wants to share with other readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 7, 2022
Diana Forsyth is planning a party to celebrate her husband Will turning sixty and their thirtieth wedding anniversary. They have two adult children, Aiden and Persephone, and they are returning home to Australia for the big event. The venue, plane tickets and accommodation have been booked and Diana has almost finished her working on Will’s big surprise.
Diana and Will have just recently sold the family home on Turpentine Street, the place where their children grew up, they have bought an apartment, and Diana is slowly unpacking years of memories. Will spends most of his time overseas working, he always has, and her friends can’t understand why Didi doesn’t mind being on her own?
Diana finds a torn scrap of paper hidden inside one of Will’s jumpers, with the words, "I forgive you" written on it and Didi wonders if Will's cheating on her? Diana starts looking back at the years they have been together and their marriage, it began with them being madly in love, as time goes by, children, family commitments, and work and have all affected their intimacy, and closeness.
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness is a story about relationships, marriage, friendship, family, tragedy, putting others first, losing yourself, and lack of communication. It’s a realistic and engaging narrative, that grabs your attention and keeps it, many of us can relate to the topics covered in the story, and especially women whose children have grown up and left the nest.
Five stars from me, thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for my copy in exchange for a review, well done Meredith Jaffe, I loved the use of music in the narrative, and Didi's supportive and funny friends, and I’m looking forward to reading Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison.
Diana and Will have just recently sold the family home on Turpentine Street, the place where their children grew up, they have bought an apartment, and Diana is slowly unpacking years of memories. Will spends most of his time overseas working, he always has, and her friends can’t understand why Didi doesn’t mind being on her own?
Diana finds a torn scrap of paper hidden inside one of Will’s jumpers, with the words, "I forgive you" written on it and Didi wonders if Will's cheating on her? Diana starts looking back at the years they have been together and their marriage, it began with them being madly in love, as time goes by, children, family commitments, and work and have all affected their intimacy, and closeness.
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness is a story about relationships, marriage, friendship, family, tragedy, putting others first, losing yourself, and lack of communication. It’s a realistic and engaging narrative, that grabs your attention and keeps it, many of us can relate to the topics covered in the story, and especially women whose children have grown up and left the nest.
Five stars from me, thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for my copy in exchange for a review, well done Meredith Jaffe, I loved the use of music in the narrative, and Didi's supportive and funny friends, and I’m looking forward to reading Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison.
August 16, 2022
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness by Aussie author Meredith Jaffe was such a delight to read. An enjoyable and relatable story about relationships, family and friends all of which were cleverly woven together that left you wanting more as you turned the last page.
Not only did I thoroughly enjoy this book, but I honestly think this would make a great book for any book club. Highly recommended.
Not only did I thoroughly enjoy this book, but I honestly think this would make a great book for any book club. Highly recommended.
May 5, 2022
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The Tricky Art of Forgiveness by Meredith Jaffé. (2022).
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 2 March 2022**
Diana is in the midst of planning the Big Party - her husband Will's 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary. The whole family is flying in and Diana is planning a secret Big Surprise. But then she finds a torn note hidden in Will's jumper that says 'I forgive you'. Diana realises she's not the only one keeping Big Secrets. As empty nesters who have just downsized, they are supposed to be embracing freedom - not revisiting a past that Diana has worked very hard to leave behind...
After really enjoying this author's previous novel (The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison) I was quite looking forward to this book. It didn't disappoint, and was for sure a compelling page-turner. I appreciated that the narrative dealt with both the current timeline and looked back into Diana and Will's history to explain the context of their present-day relationship issues; I felt it was a realistic portrayal of a long-term partnership. The storyline is quite thought-provoking in terms of relationships and marriage and at times it's witty as well as emotional.
Overall: happily recommend this contemporary domestic drama that makes for a great binge read.
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The Tricky Art of Forgiveness by Meredith Jaffé. (2022).
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 2 March 2022**
Diana is in the midst of planning the Big Party - her husband Will's 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary. The whole family is flying in and Diana is planning a secret Big Surprise. But then she finds a torn note hidden in Will's jumper that says 'I forgive you'. Diana realises she's not the only one keeping Big Secrets. As empty nesters who have just downsized, they are supposed to be embracing freedom - not revisiting a past that Diana has worked very hard to leave behind...
After really enjoying this author's previous novel (The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison) I was quite looking forward to this book. It didn't disappoint, and was for sure a compelling page-turner. I appreciated that the narrative dealt with both the current timeline and looked back into Diana and Will's history to explain the context of their present-day relationship issues; I felt it was a realistic portrayal of a long-term partnership. The storyline is quite thought-provoking in terms of relationships and marriage and at times it's witty as well as emotional.
Overall: happily recommend this contemporary domestic drama that makes for a great binge read.
March 25, 2022
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness is the fourth novel by Australian author, Meredith Jaffé. While her husband Will is overseas on business, Diana Forsyth is unpacking boxes in their new seaside apartment on The Green. The move from Turpentine Street in The Village was a wrench, but their kids are grown with families of their own, and living overseas; downsizing makes sense.
So, on her day off from being a school choir mistress, with the Big Party (Will’s 60th and their 30th wedding anniversary), and The Big Surprise still to organise, Didi is refolding Will’s hastily packed pullovers when she finds a crumpled note on a Singapore hotel letterhead, in Will’s hand: “I FORGIVE YOU”.
Immediate recall of their very first encounter is triggered (a meet-cute on vacation in the Whitsundays), but Didi is also reminded of darker times in their marriage, infidelities and betrayals, grief and desperation, over two decades earlier. And she has to wonder: to whom did Will write this?
Then Will returns and a bombshell drops. Will their marriage survive this?
In this dual timeline narrative, Jaffé slowly and skilfully builds the story of a marriage with its attendant highs and lows. She populates it with complex characters who are mostly appealing despite, or perhaps because of, their flaws and failings, but who occasionally disappoint with poor behaviour. And the ones who seem despicable? Even they might deserve a chance, or some sympathy.
This is a story that will particularly resonate with readers of a certain vintage, especially “empty-nesters”, but certainly has a broader appeal. Jaffé touches on both topical and perennial themes: career versus family and children; extra-marital affairs; the economic security of older women; grief; and surviving the post-child-rearing years.
As a bonus, Jaffé makes her protagonist a singer and throws in a list of songs that are bound to exercise the nostalgia muscle. There is plenty of humour, some of it quite black, but also a good deal of heartache, so have the tissues ready. With a tale that is thought-provoking and heart-warming in equal measure, once again, Jaffé does not disappoint.
This unbiased review is from a copy provided by Harper Collins Australia.
So, on her day off from being a school choir mistress, with the Big Party (Will’s 60th and their 30th wedding anniversary), and The Big Surprise still to organise, Didi is refolding Will’s hastily packed pullovers when she finds a crumpled note on a Singapore hotel letterhead, in Will’s hand: “I FORGIVE YOU”.
Immediate recall of their very first encounter is triggered (a meet-cute on vacation in the Whitsundays), but Didi is also reminded of darker times in their marriage, infidelities and betrayals, grief and desperation, over two decades earlier. And she has to wonder: to whom did Will write this?
Then Will returns and a bombshell drops. Will their marriage survive this?
In this dual timeline narrative, Jaffé slowly and skilfully builds the story of a marriage with its attendant highs and lows. She populates it with complex characters who are mostly appealing despite, or perhaps because of, their flaws and failings, but who occasionally disappoint with poor behaviour. And the ones who seem despicable? Even they might deserve a chance, or some sympathy.
This is a story that will particularly resonate with readers of a certain vintage, especially “empty-nesters”, but certainly has a broader appeal. Jaffé touches on both topical and perennial themes: career versus family and children; extra-marital affairs; the economic security of older women; grief; and surviving the post-child-rearing years.
As a bonus, Jaffé makes her protagonist a singer and throws in a list of songs that are bound to exercise the nostalgia muscle. There is plenty of humour, some of it quite black, but also a good deal of heartache, so have the tissues ready. With a tale that is thought-provoking and heart-warming in equal measure, once again, Jaffé does not disappoint.
This unbiased review is from a copy provided by Harper Collins Australia.
September 29, 2022
Told in two time frames of ‘ then’ and ‘now,’ it tells of Diana Forsyth. Diana is coming up to her 30th wedding anniversary with Will. It will also be Will's 60th birthday and celebration for both is planned. The whole family is flying in, and unknown to Will, Diana is planning a big surprise. But all of that is put under threat when Diana finds a scrap of paper. On it are three words, ‘ I forgive you.’ It brings the past back all too clearly and Diana realises she is not the only one keeping big secrets. Having downsized from the family home, Diana and Will planned on enjoying their freedom, till the past comes calling. A past Diana has tried so hard to leave behind. Just how much tragedy and how many secrets can one marriage survive? Is forgiveness even possible? Let’s just say it could be tricky.
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness is a tricky book to review. Why? It did not grab me the way I expected it to. Having read The Fence by this author, I expected to love this. To begin with I was really interested in this novel but after a while it just felt like it went on too long, going over the same ground which involved too much lack of communication. Added to that, I found it hard to empathise with and like Diana and Will. It was easy to start skimming, which is never a good sign.
Diana used to be the lead singer with a band in her younger days. I did enjoy the playlist of songs from the past. Other people may enjoy this more than I did, but for me it was just a 3 star read. Enjoyable enough but not memorable. Perhaps because I never cared enough about the characters.
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness is a tricky book to review. Why? It did not grab me the way I expected it to. Having read The Fence by this author, I expected to love this. To begin with I was really interested in this novel but after a while it just felt like it went on too long, going over the same ground which involved too much lack of communication. Added to that, I found it hard to empathise with and like Diana and Will. It was easy to start skimming, which is never a good sign.
Diana used to be the lead singer with a band in her younger days. I did enjoy the playlist of songs from the past. Other people may enjoy this more than I did, but for me it was just a 3 star read. Enjoyable enough but not memorable. Perhaps because I never cared enough about the characters.
April 2, 2022
After reading so many great books at the start of the year, I’ve now hit a speedbump with a couple of books in a row I’ve really not liked much at all.
I wanted to read The Tricky Art of Forgiveness as the main characters were heading towards sixty and there's really not enough 'older people' representation in books. Unfortunately though, their actions never reflected their ages and Jaffe should not have bothered.
Besides characters acting immature given their age, there were so many things that made no sense about this book. The beginning introduces us to Diana, our heroine, unpacking at her new apartment. Will, her husband, is not there and she is having trouble contacting him. Diana thinks about how Will has basically forced her to sell up their family home and now he’s overseas, apparently uncontactable because they still use landlines and answering machines instead of texting. Then, in amongst one of his jumpers, she finds a scrap of paper with the message, ‘I forgive you’ in his handwriting and she goes into panic mode.
Okay… I assumed maybe Will had done a runner considering this build up but no, he then calls, using a mobile phone to which Diana could have just given in and texted earlier if things were so worrisome… And I’m still trying to work out why ‘I forgive you’ would scare someone so much. I mean, it might be some bit of self improvement strategy, I don’t know, but it doesn’t actually have ‘Carmen, you’re the best shag I’ve ever had, I’ll call you when my stupid wife Diana is out of earshot’ written on it, does it?
So… The book then swaps between ‘then’ (from when Will and Diana met) and ‘now’ (with Diana party planning and day drinking). Literally, nothing happens in this book. Unless you think reading about Diana running errands and meeting friends for coffee is something happening. It actually took to the 50% mark of the book for the next significant moment to happen and it made even less sense than the note in Will’s clothes. I mean, seriously, without saying what it actually is and spoiling it if you really are thinking of reading the book, I cannot work out on what planet such a thing would happen to anyone. If Diana and Will were famous movie stars, maybe, but they’re apparently not. Although, now that I think about it, they’re not short of a dollar, Diana did throw $2000 down for a venue hire without blinking an eyelid…
Anyway, it was around this time that I began to skim. Then, I skimmed some more. Then, I gave up and DNF’d the book. So, I don’t know what the note meant and I’m afraid I have no real desire to find out.
I suppose I shouldn’t rate it as it might have suddenly become a Liane Moriarty-like effort but all my DNFs automatically get a one.
I wanted to read The Tricky Art of Forgiveness as the main characters were heading towards sixty and there's really not enough 'older people' representation in books. Unfortunately though, their actions never reflected their ages and Jaffe should not have bothered.
Besides characters acting immature given their age, there were so many things that made no sense about this book. The beginning introduces us to Diana, our heroine, unpacking at her new apartment. Will, her husband, is not there and she is having trouble contacting him. Diana thinks about how Will has basically forced her to sell up their family home and now he’s overseas, apparently uncontactable because they still use landlines and answering machines instead of texting. Then, in amongst one of his jumpers, she finds a scrap of paper with the message, ‘I forgive you’ in his handwriting and she goes into panic mode.
Okay… I assumed maybe Will had done a runner considering this build up but no, he then calls, using a mobile phone to which Diana could have just given in and texted earlier if things were so worrisome… And I’m still trying to work out why ‘I forgive you’ would scare someone so much. I mean, it might be some bit of self improvement strategy, I don’t know, but it doesn’t actually have ‘Carmen, you’re the best shag I’ve ever had, I’ll call you when my stupid wife Diana is out of earshot’ written on it, does it?
So… The book then swaps between ‘then’ (from when Will and Diana met) and ‘now’ (with Diana party planning and day drinking). Literally, nothing happens in this book. Unless you think reading about Diana running errands and meeting friends for coffee is something happening. It actually took to the 50% mark of the book for the next significant moment to happen and it made even less sense than the note in Will’s clothes. I mean, seriously, without saying what it actually is and spoiling it if you really are thinking of reading the book, I cannot work out on what planet such a thing would happen to anyone. If Diana and Will were famous movie stars, maybe, but they’re apparently not. Although, now that I think about it, they’re not short of a dollar, Diana did throw $2000 down for a venue hire without blinking an eyelid…
Anyway, it was around this time that I began to skim. Then, I skimmed some more. Then, I gave up and DNF’d the book. So, I don’t know what the note meant and I’m afraid I have no real desire to find out.
I suppose I shouldn’t rate it as it might have suddenly become a Liane Moriarty-like effort but all my DNFs automatically get a one.
May 2, 2022
I've always enjoyed how Jaffe explores the depths of relationships, so was immediately intrigued by the premise of a woman who discovers a mysterious note among her husband's things. The best thing about novels centring on everyday life is that you can put yourself in your characters' shoes and ask: "What would I do in that same situation?" It's perhaps a sign that the relationship is not going so well that Diane feels she can't discuss the note with her husband of thirty years, but instead lets doubts and suspicions overwhelm her. It probably also doesn't help that her husband Will is absent for most of the book, so we only get to hear from Diana’s' perspective, as she relives the highs and lows of their marriage. I usually enjoy a slow-burning, character driven story, so savoured the slow unveiling of secrets, which lay at the heart of the marriage crisis. Being set in Australia, the book was relatable to our time, even though perhaps more to the middle aged rather than the younger reader.
As usual, Jaffe writes with insight and heart as she compares a marriage to a landscape, with all its highs and lows, valleys and peaks. I found Diana relatable and easy to warm to, and her dilemma seemed believable. THE TRICKY ART OF FORGIVENESS contains many themes which will resonate with a variety of readers, such as grief, guilt, forgiveness, regrets, the empty nest syndrome and how the choices we make will steer our lives along one particular path. A book full of heart that prompted reflection.
Thank you to Harper Collins AU for the free electronic copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.
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As usual, Jaffe writes with insight and heart as she compares a marriage to a landscape, with all its highs and lows, valleys and peaks. I found Diana relatable and easy to warm to, and her dilemma seemed believable. THE TRICKY ART OF FORGIVENESS contains many themes which will resonate with a variety of readers, such as grief, guilt, forgiveness, regrets, the empty nest syndrome and how the choices we make will steer our lives along one particular path. A book full of heart that prompted reflection.
Thank you to Harper Collins AU for the free electronic copy of this novel and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.
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October 23, 2022
I’ve never married or had kids, my life couldn’t be more different from Diana’s yet I really enjoyed the story and music! It was full of heart and really poignant, I loved the message of ‘you being the only one who can made you happy’
May 29, 2022
I am not sure exactly why I didn't connect with this book. As the main character, Diana, is only a couple of years older than myself, I still couldn't relate to her. I found her rather unlikeable and self absorbed. She seemed to have no real connection to those people closest to her, with the exception of Michael.
After reading The Dressmakers of Yarrandara Prison, which I absolutely loved, I found this disjointed and rather wishy-washy. The last few chapters were the best of the book and I only wish we had reached that point earlier and had the story continue on from there.
Maybe a little more of the other characters stories might have made the book more engaging. I found that really only knowing Diana and not anyone else made the book repetitive and a touch boring.
I would love to know what others thought of this book, and if I missed something.
After reading The Dressmakers of Yarrandara Prison, which I absolutely loved, I found this disjointed and rather wishy-washy. The last few chapters were the best of the book and I only wish we had reached that point earlier and had the story continue on from there.
Maybe a little more of the other characters stories might have made the book more engaging. I found that really only knowing Diana and not anyone else made the book repetitive and a touch boring.
I would love to know what others thought of this book, and if I missed something.
February 25, 2022
Thank you Harper Collins for sending us a copy to read and review.
Marriage, a union between two people that is recognised legally or socially granting both responsibilities and mutual rights.
A tale of young love, old love, the secrets we keep, choices, lies, absolution and the hold everlasting love has.
Diana and Will are about to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary.
Will is also turning 60.
A combined extravaganza is planned with members of the family flying in from around the world.
Recently downsizing homes, the new empty nesters begin to unpack.
But then Diana finds a piece of paper with the words “I Forgive You” on it.
Soon she realises that Will is keeping a secret but what Will doesn’t know is that Diana is also keeping a secret.
The latest novel by Meredith Jaffe is a wonderful, heartfelt and engaging story full of hope and love and an abundance of heart and soul.
It’s poignant, authentic and warm and tender.
We get to see the many aspects of marriage, the good the bad and the ugly, all told through compassion and realness.
There’s much truth, honesty and credibility with Meredith not shying away from the raw and integrity.
A very up close and personal and intimate conversation between writer and reader.
The book as a whole gives off a very powerful and painfully exposed energy.
One I thoroughly enjoyed and can highly recommend.
Marriage, a union between two people that is recognised legally or socially granting both responsibilities and mutual rights.
A tale of young love, old love, the secrets we keep, choices, lies, absolution and the hold everlasting love has.
Diana and Will are about to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary.
Will is also turning 60.
A combined extravaganza is planned with members of the family flying in from around the world.
Recently downsizing homes, the new empty nesters begin to unpack.
But then Diana finds a piece of paper with the words “I Forgive You” on it.
Soon she realises that Will is keeping a secret but what Will doesn’t know is that Diana is also keeping a secret.
The latest novel by Meredith Jaffe is a wonderful, heartfelt and engaging story full of hope and love and an abundance of heart and soul.
It’s poignant, authentic and warm and tender.
We get to see the many aspects of marriage, the good the bad and the ugly, all told through compassion and realness.
There’s much truth, honesty and credibility with Meredith not shying away from the raw and integrity.
A very up close and personal and intimate conversation between writer and reader.
The book as a whole gives off a very powerful and painfully exposed energy.
One I thoroughly enjoyed and can highly recommend.
March 26, 2022
I so, so wanted to love this novel but it just didn't do it for me. Dianne and the oft-absent husband are the central characters on the latest Jaffe offering, but Will is never there, so what we know of him comes from Diane's warped sense of reality marred by her loneliness and many glasses of wine. Her family and friends, many who are also strewn to all areas of the planet, are used as sounding boards on the marital troubles, never really knowing either Didi or Will very well, it seems or their history. The last fifty pages I read almost by browsing because I was just fed up with the 'talk'! Nothing much happens in the middle 200 pages, after all! Maybe I just like more doing than saying in my reading choices.
Poorly considered plot points did not help either. I mean, who in this day and age has a business card? Don't we put new contacts immediately into our phones?! And photographs? Not printed to share but all on our electronic devices at our fingerprints!
Poorly considered plot points did not help either. I mean, who in this day and age has a business card? Don't we put new contacts immediately into our phones?! And photographs? Not printed to share but all on our electronic devices at our fingerprints!
April 24, 2022
3.5 rounded up:) My husband and I went to the recent book launch at the Alter Bar Milton - a fun evening with the local author, Meredith Jaffe in conversation with Wendy Harmer, & somewhat predictably quite a large audience of women. Lots of discussion (as well as wine🍷 & 🧀) particularly in relation to long term (haul??!) relationships so it was an exploration of a range of issues. The issue that has often been sweeped under the carpet in society is maternal grief & the generational trauma that can result…Meredith explores this and other issues with lots of heart & hope. There are also many amusing/uplifting parts - sometimes a bit cheesy some might say…but who doesn’t enjoy a focus on some love & romance after hard times? I particularly loved the play list concept & sure my husband will too. The concept reminded me of Jodi Picoult’s ‘Sing You Home’…& there’s some similarity with the family focussed themes, writing style etc.
May 6, 2022
Diana and Will have recently down sized and are about to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary. Will travels a lot for work so Diana is left to party plan and unpack and comes across a note that simply states "I FORGIVE YOU." This causes her to question who is needing forgiveness and for what and doubt what Will may be up to. But before she can question him, she herself becomes the target of doubts about what she is doing whilst Will is away. The reader gets to see the relationship of Diana and Will in both "Now" and "Then" time periods and we get to discover the tragic event that nearly ripped their marriage apart years ago that has a lasting impact through to current times. Will they even make it to celebrate their 30th anniversary?? A brilliant story by Jaffe.
February 27, 2022
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness was a delightful read, that I happily and greedily read..... often sneaking in another quick chapter! Meredith Jaffe explores the concept of forgiveness from different angles.... partners, parents and ourselves. It was an honest exploration of marriage, family and life, so much resonates....... causing quiet thought and reflection.
A pleasure to read.
Thank you to Harper and Collins for the copy to read.
A pleasure to read.
Thank you to Harper and Collins for the copy to read.
February 28, 2022
I was lucky enough to read an early copy of this novel and I absolutely loved it.
Meredith is a talented writer and the way she handled some of the difficult events in this story left me very impressed. I really enjoyed both The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison and The Tricky Art of Forgiveness and cant wait for her next book to be published.
Meredith is a talented writer and the way she handled some of the difficult events in this story left me very impressed. I really enjoyed both The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison and The Tricky Art of Forgiveness and cant wait for her next book to be published.
December 6, 2022
Entertaining easy reading if not particularly high-brow. Made an interesting change to have a main character in her sixties (with adult children) finding her purpose after way too many books about women in their 30s and 40s with young kids complaining about theirs.
Read
February 8, 2022Eagerly awaiting this one as I thoroughly enjoyed The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison and The Fence.
April 19, 2022
Diana and Will are empty nesters and have downsized to an apartment.
Diana is reflecting after finding a note that brings back a flood of memories.
I loved the idea of this storyline, the ups and downs of marriage, but I really couldn’t connect with the characters or story, unfortunately.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Diana is reflecting after finding a note that brings back a flood of memories.
I loved the idea of this storyline, the ups and downs of marriage, but I really couldn’t connect with the characters or story, unfortunately.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 3, 2024
Readable and that’s about it.
March 6, 2022
Happy Publication Week 🎉 Meredith Jaffe`
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness 🎙🙏🌷⚘
@meredithjaffeauthor
@harpercollinsaustralia
Review 📚
✒ Diana Forsyth is in the midst of planning the Big Party, a combined celebration of her husband Will's 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary. The whole family is flying in and, unbeknownst to Will, Diana is planning a big surprise.
✒But then she finds a torn scrap of paper hidden inside the folds of one of his cashmere sweaters, with the words I forgive you. And all of a sudden, Diana realises she's not the only one keeping Big Secrets.
✒As empty nesters who have just downsized from the family home, she and Will are supposed to be embracing a new promise of glorious freedom - not revisiting a past that Diana has worked very hard to leave behind.
🔖Wow... I loved reading this book. It is an immersive, intriguing and thoughtful read. I stopped many times to contemplate, absorb and understand the actions of Diana and Will. Whilst the book begins humming along beautifully, I could slowly sense something building underneath the depiction of Diana and Will's seemingly normal marriage. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out what secrets were being suppressed within this 30 year union.
🔖I was so engrossed by the revelations that were slowly unveiled. Whilst the themes of personal sacrifices, choices made and forgiveness within a marriage underpin this story, it's also about understanding the depths of loneliness and grief and how differently a married couple does both. It also examines the extent to which hurtful behaviours within a marriage can be tolerated, the strength and endurance this requires and ultimately, the emotional cost of not being true to oneself. And so, so much more.
🔖Meredith writes authentically with much warmth, wit and realism. Her characters are truly alive and tangible ... so conceivable in all they say and do. It makes for a dream read as she puts you in the heart of every scene.
I highly, highly recommend this insightful, intimate and memorable read. 💜💜
Next up... to catch-up and read Meredith's highly acclaimed first 2 books, The Fence and The Making of Christina!! 📖
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness 🎙🙏🌷⚘
@meredithjaffeauthor
@harpercollinsaustralia
Review 📚
✒ Diana Forsyth is in the midst of planning the Big Party, a combined celebration of her husband Will's 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary. The whole family is flying in and, unbeknownst to Will, Diana is planning a big surprise.
✒But then she finds a torn scrap of paper hidden inside the folds of one of his cashmere sweaters, with the words I forgive you. And all of a sudden, Diana realises she's not the only one keeping Big Secrets.
✒As empty nesters who have just downsized from the family home, she and Will are supposed to be embracing a new promise of glorious freedom - not revisiting a past that Diana has worked very hard to leave behind.
🔖Wow... I loved reading this book. It is an immersive, intriguing and thoughtful read. I stopped many times to contemplate, absorb and understand the actions of Diana and Will. Whilst the book begins humming along beautifully, I could slowly sense something building underneath the depiction of Diana and Will's seemingly normal marriage. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out what secrets were being suppressed within this 30 year union.
🔖I was so engrossed by the revelations that were slowly unveiled. Whilst the themes of personal sacrifices, choices made and forgiveness within a marriage underpin this story, it's also about understanding the depths of loneliness and grief and how differently a married couple does both. It also examines the extent to which hurtful behaviours within a marriage can be tolerated, the strength and endurance this requires and ultimately, the emotional cost of not being true to oneself. And so, so much more.
🔖Meredith writes authentically with much warmth, wit and realism. Her characters are truly alive and tangible ... so conceivable in all they say and do. It makes for a dream read as she puts you in the heart of every scene.
I highly, highly recommend this insightful, intimate and memorable read. 💜💜
Next up... to catch-up and read Meredith's highly acclaimed first 2 books, The Fence and The Making of Christina!! 📖
October 28, 2022
2.5 stars
Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a copy of this book to review!
Diana is organizing a big party - a combined celebration for her husband Will’s 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary. When she finds a scrap of paper in the pocket of Will’s jacket that says “I forgive you” she begins to think that perhaps their whole marriage has become a series of secrets that they are keeping from each other and their adult children.
I quite enjoyed the author’s previous book The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison, but unfortunately this book just didn’t really resonate with me at all. I found the main characters of Diana and Will irritating, who behaved like teenagers the whole way through the book - including the “then” sections which were set 30 years previously, and also the “now” sections, where they are 55 and turning 60 years old respectively.
I also found the differing time periods indistinguishable - the “then” chapters sounded exactly the same as the “now” chapters, with nothing very time specific to set them apart. It was a little confusing at times remembering which time period you were supposedly reading.
I guess I would say that this read very much like chick lit to me, which is just not my jam. However I can imagine this would be quite an enjoyable read for someone who appreciates this genre. ⭐️⭐️.5/5
Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a copy of this book to review!
Diana is organizing a big party - a combined celebration for her husband Will’s 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary. When she finds a scrap of paper in the pocket of Will’s jacket that says “I forgive you” she begins to think that perhaps their whole marriage has become a series of secrets that they are keeping from each other and their adult children.
I quite enjoyed the author’s previous book The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison, but unfortunately this book just didn’t really resonate with me at all. I found the main characters of Diana and Will irritating, who behaved like teenagers the whole way through the book - including the “then” sections which were set 30 years previously, and also the “now” sections, where they are 55 and turning 60 years old respectively.
I also found the differing time periods indistinguishable - the “then” chapters sounded exactly the same as the “now” chapters, with nothing very time specific to set them apart. It was a little confusing at times remembering which time period you were supposedly reading.
I guess I would say that this read very much like chick lit to me, which is just not my jam. However I can imagine this would be quite an enjoyable read for someone who appreciates this genre. ⭐️⭐️.5/5
March 2, 2022
The Tricky Art Of Forgiveness is the story of Diana and Will Forsyth who are about to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary and Will’s 60th birthday. As party celebrations get underway their relationship hits crisis point and their future looks uncertain. A traumatic event in their past wasn’t dealt with appropriately and they need to confront this before they can move forward.
There are a cast of characters I could relate to, as well as the challenges of being in a long term relationship, “Marriages traverse such complex and treacherous landscapes”
Tricky family relationships are explored and are very realistic. Diana’s interactions with her prickly mother and her difficult sister in law will bring a wry smile to many faces.
The issue of ageing and of what comes next when your children don’t need you so much is explored too. Reading group discussion questions make it a good choice for book clubs
Diana is a musician and there is a great Spotify playlist so you can listen along to the music mentioned in the book
There are a cast of characters I could relate to, as well as the challenges of being in a long term relationship, “Marriages traverse such complex and treacherous landscapes”
Tricky family relationships are explored and are very realistic. Diana’s interactions with her prickly mother and her difficult sister in law will bring a wry smile to many faces.
The issue of ageing and of what comes next when your children don’t need you so much is explored too. Reading group discussion questions make it a good choice for book clubs
Diana is a musician and there is a great Spotify playlist so you can listen along to the music mentioned in the book
March 30, 2022
This book has a difficult and emotional central story but her beautiful character development and light touch made this a quick read. I devoured it over a matter of days (busy days I might add!). The composition of the chapters, alternates between Diana's life past and present, making for engaging reading. I'm close in age to the main protagonist and also approaching my 30th wedding anniversary and I found the story (while not similar to my own life) completely believable. Diana is in the middle of planning a combined celebration for her husband's 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary when she finds a scrap of paper with the words 'I forgive you'. Suddenly everything in her life is turned on its head as she needs to address the past to fix their future together. This is a heartwarming and often funny story and the final chapters had me in tears. A celebration of family, love, loss, and a woman rediscovering herself after putting aside her own needs for too long. Of added interest is a playlist of wonderful jazz classics and a QR code so you can find the playlist on Spotify!
April 9, 2022
This is the fourth novel from Meredith Jaffé and I can confirm it's another goodie.
Diana Forsyth is planning a big party for her husband Will's 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary when she finds a scrap of paper with the words 'I forgive you' scribbled on it. These three words throw a spanner in the party-planning works and as family prepare to fly in from around the world, Diana is forced to grapple with the past so she can find a way forward.
This is a book that will both warm your heart and make you cry. I really enjoyed being immersed in this story and found it hard to put down. There's a great cast of characters and strong female representation. I loved how it thoughtfully explored a number of big topics such as marriage, grief, family, aging and forgiveness. The Tricky Art of Forgiveness is an authentic and moving read that I highly recommend.
Diana Forsyth is planning a big party for her husband Will's 60th birthday and their 30th wedding anniversary when she finds a scrap of paper with the words 'I forgive you' scribbled on it. These three words throw a spanner in the party-planning works and as family prepare to fly in from around the world, Diana is forced to grapple with the past so she can find a way forward.
This is a book that will both warm your heart and make you cry. I really enjoyed being immersed in this story and found it hard to put down. There's a great cast of characters and strong female representation. I loved how it thoughtfully explored a number of big topics such as marriage, grief, family, aging and forgiveness. The Tricky Art of Forgiveness is an authentic and moving read that I highly recommend.
June 14, 2023
Interesting story. Probably a 3.5
A big plot. A few too many characters with average development left me confused at times and definitely cheering for the "wrong" team and a very different outcome. I suggest you turn to the back of the book where you will find a Playlist and a very clever use of the now quite famous QR code which takes you to a Spotify soundtrack. It would have really set a better musical theme for me if I'd know at the beginning. Try it! Absolutely well done taking the reader to this additional level!! Meredith also provides some Reading Group Questions. This is greatly appreciated and offer quite a bit of discussion around women's issues. Tell me what you think!
A big plot. A few too many characters with average development left me confused at times and definitely cheering for the "wrong" team and a very different outcome. I suggest you turn to the back of the book where you will find a Playlist and a very clever use of the now quite famous QR code which takes you to a Spotify soundtrack. It would have really set a better musical theme for me if I'd know at the beginning. Try it! Absolutely well done taking the reader to this additional level!! Meredith also provides some Reading Group Questions. This is greatly appreciated and offer quite a bit of discussion around women's issues. Tell me what you think!
February 28, 2022
I was lucky enough to be given an early copy of this delightful book. It’s an easy read, with a thoughtful cast of characters. Anyone who has read Meredith’s earlier books, particularly The Dressmakers of Yarrandarrah Prison, will know she writes a great story. This one centres on a couple approaching their 30th anniversary, and his 60th birthday. The cracks are appearing and they need to confront unresolved issues. Well worth reading
March 23, 2022
The Tricky Art of Forgiveness by Meredith Jaffe. A fantastic read with a great, strong plot. I laughed, cried, felt anger, sympathised with Diana as I read, so many emotions came to the forefront. So good to have a romance where the main character was middle aged and easy to relate to. I loved the ending. This book was difficult to put down, I just wanted to see what was going to happen next. Congratulations Meredith.
April 29, 2022
The Art of Forgiveness primarily explores relationships within a family and friends and how secrets can distort the truth. Meredith Jaffe is a masterful describing characters we all have in our lives. This makes her writing believable and relatable. Although I thought The Art of Forgiveness was predictable I would recommend it to readers. Especially Bookclubs as there are so many aspects that could be discussed. I look forward to this authors next book
March 14, 2022
I wish I was in a book club for this one. I need to discuss!! It's very introspective and all about marriage and the choices we make. I have a lot of thoughts about this one but no spoilers. Would make a great book club pick, especially for a more mature group.
Thanks @harpercollinsaustralia for this review copy.
Thanks @harpercollinsaustralia for this review copy.
June 9, 2022
Really disliked this. I just didn't believe any of the characters were real people, they felt very 2 dimensional. I also thought that some of the plot choices were unrealistic and did not ring true at all. Was completely unenthusiastic about picking this up which is why it took so long to finish. 2 stars.
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