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The Storytellers
Trapped between life and the afterlife, three women meet and share their stories while discovering the truth about the men in their lives—and about themselves.
Suspended in an eerie state of limbo, an entity called the Gatekeeper tells Nikki, Ronnie, and Mrs. Hawthorne they are on the cusp of entering the afterlife—but only if the women can persuade him that in their earthly lives, they knew the meaning of love.
Fragments of their memories return, plunging them back into their pasts, and forcing them to face the desires, disappointments, addictions, lies, and obsessions they battled in life.
But before time runs out, will they find the answer to the ultimate question: what is love?
Suspended in an eerie state of limbo, an entity called the Gatekeeper tells Nikki, Ronnie, and Mrs. Hawthorne they are on the cusp of entering the afterlife—but only if the women can persuade him that in their earthly lives, they knew the meaning of love.
Fragments of their memories return, plunging them back into their pasts, and forcing them to face the desires, disappointments, addictions, lies, and obsessions they battled in life.
But before time runs out, will they find the answer to the ultimate question: what is love?
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 16, 2022
79 people are currently reading
661 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
May 17, 2022
Writing: 5/5 | Plot: 5/5 | Ending: 5/5
THE PLOT
Nikki, Ronnie, and Mrs. Hawthorne meet in the limbo between life and the afterlife, forced to explore their stories about love and loss.
MY OPINION
SOUND THE ALARM BECAUSE IT'S A BANGER ALERT!!!!! OOOHHHWEEEEEE I LOVE THIS ONE!!!
This isn't my usual genre—but I thought YOLO. I am so glad I tried something new. This worked for me because the fantasy element in this speculative fiction book was a literary device used to support the theme: men are trash, protect yourself boo (I'm being facetious)
I connected with this book aggressively. Not only is Caron a talented and hilarious writer with unique, flowing prose, she expertly portrayed how our childhood traumas with the first man in our lives can lead us astray. And while each woman's story may seem different, the struggle is always the same: a child's innate need to be loved that morphs into an adult woman's misguided need to be chosen, to be validated, to be told she's enough, to be told she's worth it.
Ronnie—oh HONEYYYYYY. I love the messages Caron delivers with this character. I don't want to give too much away, but her relationship with sex is especially powerful.
Then we have Nikki, sweet Nikki. Insecure like all 18 year olds are. Independent but codependent all at once. Looking for a man who can carry her off into the sunset. Willing to do anything to keep that sunset in her sights.
And lastly, Mrs. Hawthorne. Trying to lock down companionship in her twilight years with a man still in love with a ghost.
While the story was intensely moving, especially since I connected so deeply with it, Caron's biting humour staves off the clouds of depression you might feel LOL. There's one particular scene where Ronnie's in a sex club and says "meep, meep" a la Roadrunner that made me absolutely lose my shit. And I really enjoyed crafty prose like: "...serves us tea and KitKats. I can't even thinking about taking a break" peppered throughout.
All in all, an absolutely banger and introspective read. Short, efficient chapters. Each scene is intentionally written to SHOW readers a lesson in love. A lil twisty twist at the end but tbh I wasn't even checking for it because I was so engrossed in the messaging. I can't wait to read her next!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: everything. it was all on point.
Cons: nada but to get the most out of the read, take your judgement hat off. Ladies, we've all had a clown moment or two for a man who didn't deserve us—so don't jump on the COULDN'T BE MEEEEE train and deem these women unlikeable or pathetic. It's deeper than that and Caron shows why.
THE PLOT
Nikki, Ronnie, and Mrs. Hawthorne meet in the limbo between life and the afterlife, forced to explore their stories about love and loss.
MY OPINION
SOUND THE ALARM BECAUSE IT'S A BANGER ALERT!!!!! OOOHHHWEEEEEE I LOVE THIS ONE!!!
This isn't my usual genre—but I thought YOLO. I am so glad I tried something new. This worked for me because the fantasy element in this speculative fiction book was a literary device used to support the theme: men are trash, protect yourself boo (I'm being facetious)
I connected with this book aggressively. Not only is Caron a talented and hilarious writer with unique, flowing prose, she expertly portrayed how our childhood traumas with the first man in our lives can lead us astray. And while each woman's story may seem different, the struggle is always the same: a child's innate need to be loved that morphs into an adult woman's misguided need to be chosen, to be validated, to be told she's enough, to be told she's worth it.
Ronnie—oh HONEYYYYYY. I love the messages Caron delivers with this character. I don't want to give too much away, but her relationship with sex is especially powerful.
Then we have Nikki, sweet Nikki. Insecure like all 18 year olds are. Independent but codependent all at once. Looking for a man who can carry her off into the sunset. Willing to do anything to keep that sunset in her sights.
And lastly, Mrs. Hawthorne. Trying to lock down companionship in her twilight years with a man still in love with a ghost.
While the story was intensely moving, especially since I connected so deeply with it, Caron's biting humour staves off the clouds of depression you might feel LOL. There's one particular scene where Ronnie's in a sex club and says "meep, meep" a la Roadrunner that made me absolutely lose my shit. And I really enjoyed crafty prose like: "...serves us tea and KitKats. I can't even thinking about taking a break" peppered throughout.
All in all, an absolutely banger and introspective read. Short, efficient chapters. Each scene is intentionally written to SHOW readers a lesson in love. A lil twisty twist at the end but tbh I wasn't even checking for it because I was so engrossed in the messaging. I can't wait to read her next!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: everything. it was all on point.
Cons: nada but to get the most out of the read, take your judgement hat off. Ladies, we've all had a clown moment or two for a man who didn't deserve us—so don't jump on the COULDN'T BE MEEEEE train and deem these women unlikeable or pathetic. It's deeper than that and Caron shows why.
May 30, 2022
Such an unusual book, one written with emotion, humour and superb observation.
The characters were wonderful. Whilst their stories were very different, I did find it difficult for the first third to remember which character was which for some reason.
The writing is exquisite. I found myself smiling, nodding and highlighting quote after quote.
Highly recommended.
The characters were wonderful. Whilst their stories were very different, I did find it difficult for the first third to remember which character was which for some reason.
The writing is exquisite. I found myself smiling, nodding and highlighting quote after quote.
Highly recommended.
April 21, 2022
Well, isn’t this an unexpected gem of a find, unusual, at times dark, others light, brash and no holds barred yet also gentle and with eye watering truthful insight
In simple terms 3 ladies meet on a beach having had various terrible and shocking experiences and what unfolds is not just carthatic but also very unexpected
Some very funny writing and situations and loved the thoughts of the characters as they get through them, their brutal honesty and ‘put me down’ humour alongside great witty observation really did have me laughing from the start, but it’s not all humour and there are serious subjects covered with realities of situations not shied away from
Very different, unique I would say and whatever the opposite of bland is this books is that
A great debut with fab writing from the author that I think will surprise readers as it is so unusual
10/10
5 Stars
In simple terms 3 ladies meet on a beach having had various terrible and shocking experiences and what unfolds is not just carthatic but also very unexpected
Some very funny writing and situations and loved the thoughts of the characters as they get through them, their brutal honesty and ‘put me down’ humour alongside great witty observation really did have me laughing from the start, but it’s not all humour and there are serious subjects covered with realities of situations not shied away from
Very different, unique I would say and whatever the opposite of bland is this books is that
A great debut with fab writing from the author that I think will surprise readers as it is so unusual
10/10
5 Stars
May 6, 2022
“🎶I would do anything for love, Anything you’ve been dreaming of, But I just won’t do That 🎶” Thanks & RIP Meatloaf. “The Storytellers” is an original and thought-provoking debut contemporary women’s fiction novel, that I would describe as an anti-romance. Try to go into it without spoilers for the full impact - this would make a fantastic book club read as there would be lots to discuss afterwards.
Three very different women find themselves on a dreamlike beach, and are told by a mysterious Gatekeeper that they are in limbo, and can only progress to the afterlife if they can prove that they have known the meaning of love, so must share their story with the others. Insecure overweight 18 year old Nikki meets a handsome but unreliable Italian waiter, tough headmistress Ronnie meets a charming sex addict, and uppity Mrs Hawthorne meets a lonely widower. Can the women find happiness in love and unlock the gate to heaven?
I started this with high expectations due to all the glowing 5-star reviews, and started to struggle about a quarter of the way in as I found all of the women so frustrating and unlikeable. I persisted because it’s an ARC, and trust me - it’s worth it - in fact their character evolution is the whole point of the story. I did guess the twist quite early on, but that didn’t spoil it for me - in fact it showed me how clever the author is - little clues are planted throughout and it made me appreciate the eventual outcome all the more. I’m not sure what male readers would make of this - let’s just say the men in this don’t come across well - most women will recognise at least one of the lovers depicted.
“As I see it, loving someone is always a choice, Nikki. Do you think I’d still be here loving this old battleaxe if it weren’t a choice?” “What do you mean, Grandad?” “Every night we go to bed and I choose to kiss her goodnight and tell her that I love her. And then every morning I wake up and choose to love her again. Sure we’ve had ups and downs, every couple does. Those that don’t are liars or hiding the truth. The world can be a harsh place. Lots of things that happen in life can knock you down and take your breath away. You need someone beside you that can bring light. Not just on the days when everything is good, but when that darkness comes too.”
Overall this was a well written and satisfying read from a talented new author. 4.5 rounded down the the present tense. I received a complimentary ARC from Bloodhound Books and am posting this honest review voluntarily. The Storytellers is published on May 16th.
Three very different women find themselves on a dreamlike beach, and are told by a mysterious Gatekeeper that they are in limbo, and can only progress to the afterlife if they can prove that they have known the meaning of love, so must share their story with the others. Insecure overweight 18 year old Nikki meets a handsome but unreliable Italian waiter, tough headmistress Ronnie meets a charming sex addict, and uppity Mrs Hawthorne meets a lonely widower. Can the women find happiness in love and unlock the gate to heaven?
I started this with high expectations due to all the glowing 5-star reviews, and started to struggle about a quarter of the way in as I found all of the women so frustrating and unlikeable. I persisted because it’s an ARC, and trust me - it’s worth it - in fact their character evolution is the whole point of the story. I did guess the twist quite early on, but that didn’t spoil it for me - in fact it showed me how clever the author is - little clues are planted throughout and it made me appreciate the eventual outcome all the more. I’m not sure what male readers would make of this - let’s just say the men in this don’t come across well - most women will recognise at least one of the lovers depicted.
“As I see it, loving someone is always a choice, Nikki. Do you think I’d still be here loving this old battleaxe if it weren’t a choice?” “What do you mean, Grandad?” “Every night we go to bed and I choose to kiss her goodnight and tell her that I love her. And then every morning I wake up and choose to love her again. Sure we’ve had ups and downs, every couple does. Those that don’t are liars or hiding the truth. The world can be a harsh place. Lots of things that happen in life can knock you down and take your breath away. You need someone beside you that can bring light. Not just on the days when everything is good, but when that darkness comes too.”
Overall this was a well written and satisfying read from a talented new author. 4.5 rounded down the the present tense. I received a complimentary ARC from Bloodhound Books and am posting this honest review voluntarily. The Storytellers is published on May 16th.
May 17, 2022
I was fortunate enough to read a BETA copy of this book, before it became The Storytellers and prior to any edits or changes, and in my humble opinion, this book was OUTSTANDING.
It was during a Zoom call with Caron that she mentioned she had written a book and was nervous about sending it out to agents that I suggested she send it to me as the description had intrigued me. 3 women stuck in the afterlife, having to revisit their pasts and make sense of their toxic relationships in order to move on" sounded unusual and definitely something I hadn't read before.
It doesn't take me long to judge a book to see if I will enjoy it within the first few chapters however with this book I knew within a page or two that it was going to be good - maybe even great.
Firstly, there are 3 women from different walks of life, backgrounds and ages. There is Ronnie, a 40 something career women, a successful Headteacher who is searching for love in all the wrong places, then young 19 year old, naïve and vulnerable Nikki, who falls for a gorgeous handsome man who literally sweeps her off her feet and she falls under his charismatic charms and then the elderly Mrs H, a prim and polite women who meets a widower and is determined to make him love her despite his obsession with his dead wife.
Normally when a book is split into character chapters, I find that I prefer one particular character to another and almost rush through to find out what happens next, but in Love Lies Bleeding I absolutely adored all 3 women equally. Ronnie’s determination to make a man love her, Nikki’s blindness to what was really happening around her and Mrs H’s sheer resolve to banish the ghost of the dead wife kept me reading and reading and reading.
The characters were plausible and likeable and I was able to connect to them all. The original idea of having these women stuck in the afterlife reliving their relationships was clever and kept the pace going.
I will admit to not having read the latest version, but I am sure any changes from the original draft would only enhance the story and writting.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it and give it 5 stars.
It was during a Zoom call with Caron that she mentioned she had written a book and was nervous about sending it out to agents that I suggested she send it to me as the description had intrigued me. 3 women stuck in the afterlife, having to revisit their pasts and make sense of their toxic relationships in order to move on" sounded unusual and definitely something I hadn't read before.
It doesn't take me long to judge a book to see if I will enjoy it within the first few chapters however with this book I knew within a page or two that it was going to be good - maybe even great.
Firstly, there are 3 women from different walks of life, backgrounds and ages. There is Ronnie, a 40 something career women, a successful Headteacher who is searching for love in all the wrong places, then young 19 year old, naïve and vulnerable Nikki, who falls for a gorgeous handsome man who literally sweeps her off her feet and she falls under his charismatic charms and then the elderly Mrs H, a prim and polite women who meets a widower and is determined to make him love her despite his obsession with his dead wife.
Normally when a book is split into character chapters, I find that I prefer one particular character to another and almost rush through to find out what happens next, but in Love Lies Bleeding I absolutely adored all 3 women equally. Ronnie’s determination to make a man love her, Nikki’s blindness to what was really happening around her and Mrs H’s sheer resolve to banish the ghost of the dead wife kept me reading and reading and reading.
The characters were plausible and likeable and I was able to connect to them all. The original idea of having these women stuck in the afterlife reliving their relationships was clever and kept the pace going.
I will admit to not having read the latest version, but I am sure any changes from the original draft would only enhance the story and writting.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it and give it 5 stars.
April 21, 2022
Caron McKinlay’s long-awaited debut does not disappoint. It is a story of three women, all at different stages in their lives, yet all bound by a turbulent past and an inability to find closure.
McKinlay’s writing is vivid and conversational and she sweeps the reader in her narrative from the first page, carrying us along for the joyous and sometimes uncomfortably frank ride. Her characters are relatable and induce compassion but we watch their mistakes unfold as a protective parent might their child, agonisingly knowing they, as we all, must go through the pain to learn from it.
Categorised under ‘women’s fiction,’ The Storytellers might well appeal to a variety of readers from those drawn to ‘chick lit’ and ‘literary fiction’ to even the ‘mystery’ hunter, but the prose propels this into the higher end of women’s fiction, with a sharpness and grittiness quite unlike the saccharine sweet offerings often found in the genre. Few will question McKinlay’s craftsmanship by the end and her follow-up should be eagerly anticipated.
McKinlay’s writing is vivid and conversational and she sweeps the reader in her narrative from the first page, carrying us along for the joyous and sometimes uncomfortably frank ride. Her characters are relatable and induce compassion but we watch their mistakes unfold as a protective parent might their child, agonisingly knowing they, as we all, must go through the pain to learn from it.
Categorised under ‘women’s fiction,’ The Storytellers might well appeal to a variety of readers from those drawn to ‘chick lit’ and ‘literary fiction’ to even the ‘mystery’ hunter, but the prose propels this into the higher end of women’s fiction, with a sharpness and grittiness quite unlike the saccharine sweet offerings often found in the genre. Few will question McKinlay’s craftsmanship by the end and her follow-up should be eagerly anticipated.
May 1, 2022
Review for 'The Storytellers' by Caron McKinlay.
Read and reviewed for Caron McKinlay and Bloodhound Books.
Publication date 16th May 2022.
This is the Caron McKinlay's debut novel.
I was originally drawn to this book by its pretty cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bloodhound Books. I have yet to read a book published by Bloodhound Books that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 47 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Liverpool, Edinburgh and Blackpool, UK 🇬🇧 and in Mondello, Italy 🇮🇹 . The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited and holidayed in Blackpool and going again this year so am intrigued to see if there are places I recognise.
This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonists are Nikki, Mrs Hawthorne and Ronnie. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on.
WOW!!! I WAS NOT EXPECTING THAT TWIST!!!
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and put you in the storyline. The descriptions leave you feeling the sand on your feet and the wind in your hair.
The storyline was captivating from the first page until the last and I was completely invested in it. It was absolutely rammed full of romance, deceit, heartbreak, tension, twists, suspense and everything you could ask for in a page turner. I must admit it was not quite what I expected after reading the synopsis. I'll be entirely honest and say when I read the synopsis I thought it sounded interesting but wasn't entirely sure whether it would be too "scifi" or "fantasy" for my liking. However, it wasn't what I expected and I absolutely LOVED IT. The book starts with 3 women who meet a Gatekeeper who tell them they cannot move on until they can prove they know the meaning of love. You then hear the life stories of these 3 women until it comes to the end with two MASSIVE twists which completely shocked me!!! It is getting harder and harder to surprise me the more I read but you managed to completly blow my mind so a MASSIVE WEEL DONE Caron!!! I am ABSOLUTELY gobsmacked that this is your debut novel!!! Reading it you could never tell as it is written as exceptionally well as if you had been writing for years and the storyline was unique and absolutely gripped me!!! I just could not put this book down and finished it in one sitting. I have never read a book like this one and I have read hundreds of books so this is a massive accomplishment in itself!! The way it was written genuinely felt like I was siting next to Nikki, Ronnie and Mrs Hawthorne while they were telling me their story on the beach as if I was the gatekeeper myself. I loved the fact that it was set in different locations and I really enjoyed exploring different areas with Nikki, Ronnie and Mrs Hawthorne by my side. I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie. This may be the first book I have read by Caron and the first book you have written but it most certainly won't be my last and I hope its not yours!!!
Do not start this book until you have cleared your schedules as you will not be able to put it down!!
The characters were all realistic and strong and I was completely invested in them throughout. My heart went out to Nikki, Ronnie and Mrs Hawthorne time after time as she went through so much tragedy and heartbreak and I really hoped that they finally found happiness. They all had their own unique personalities and although I didn't agree with how they acted at times I did feel sorry for them. Ronnie had done so well for herself but lacked any self respect for herself. Graham iss an absolute douche bag womaniser with his pathetic excuses. I was gutted about a certain part involving Tom and had really hoped it was a dream. However, should I really have been that shocked? Mrs Hawthorne certainly wasn't. Nikki was a sweet young girl just starting out in life and got swept away in romance. I did find Gio hilarious when I first met him but won't say anymore as I don't want to spoil it for future readers. I adored Paola and her daughter Francesca who were both so friendly and sweet as well as being amazing friends to Nikki, everyone deserves a Paola in their life's! I did feel for Mrs Hawthorne at times along with Charles who was sweet but sadly stuck in the past. I won't say anymore about them as I don't want to give too much away. Regardless of what I thought about who, each character worked perfectly to make this an absolutely unputdownable page turner!!!
This has got to be the best debut novels and most unique book I have ever read!!!
Congratulations Caron on a MASSIVE debut success and I would like to welcome you to my favourite author list!! I cannot wait to see what your amazing mind comes up with next!!! Here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, unique page turner with explosive twists you will never see coming!!
Genres covered in this book include Metaphysical Fiction, Psychological Literary Fiction, Romance, Visual Fiction, Psychological Fiction and Literary Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as absolutely anyone looking for a unique page turner which will blow your mind!!!
317 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheStorytellers #CaronMcKinlay #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #BookBlogger #BloodhoundBooks
@CaronMcKinlay @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @BloodhoundBooks
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Read and reviewed for Caron McKinlay and Bloodhound Books.
Publication date 16th May 2022.
This is the Caron McKinlay's debut novel.
I was originally drawn to this book by its pretty cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bloodhound Books. I have yet to read a book published by Bloodhound Books that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 47 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Liverpool, Edinburgh and Blackpool, UK 🇬🇧 and in Mondello, Italy 🇮🇹 . The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited and holidayed in Blackpool and going again this year so am intrigued to see if there are places I recognise.
This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonists are Nikki, Mrs Hawthorne and Ronnie. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on.
WOW!!! I WAS NOT EXPECTING THAT TWIST!!!
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and put you in the storyline. The descriptions leave you feeling the sand on your feet and the wind in your hair.
The storyline was captivating from the first page until the last and I was completely invested in it. It was absolutely rammed full of romance, deceit, heartbreak, tension, twists, suspense and everything you could ask for in a page turner. I must admit it was not quite what I expected after reading the synopsis. I'll be entirely honest and say when I read the synopsis I thought it sounded interesting but wasn't entirely sure whether it would be too "scifi" or "fantasy" for my liking. However, it wasn't what I expected and I absolutely LOVED IT. The book starts with 3 women who meet a Gatekeeper who tell them they cannot move on until they can prove they know the meaning of love. You then hear the life stories of these 3 women until it comes to the end with two MASSIVE twists which completely shocked me!!! It is getting harder and harder to surprise me the more I read but you managed to completly blow my mind so a MASSIVE WEEL DONE Caron!!! I am ABSOLUTELY gobsmacked that this is your debut novel!!! Reading it you could never tell as it is written as exceptionally well as if you had been writing for years and the storyline was unique and absolutely gripped me!!! I just could not put this book down and finished it in one sitting. I have never read a book like this one and I have read hundreds of books so this is a massive accomplishment in itself!! The way it was written genuinely felt like I was siting next to Nikki, Ronnie and Mrs Hawthorne while they were telling me their story on the beach as if I was the gatekeeper myself. I loved the fact that it was set in different locations and I really enjoyed exploring different areas with Nikki, Ronnie and Mrs Hawthorne by my side. I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie. This may be the first book I have read by Caron and the first book you have written but it most certainly won't be my last and I hope its not yours!!!
Do not start this book until you have cleared your schedules as you will not be able to put it down!!
The characters were all realistic and strong and I was completely invested in them throughout. My heart went out to Nikki, Ronnie and Mrs Hawthorne time after time as she went through so much tragedy and heartbreak and I really hoped that they finally found happiness. They all had their own unique personalities and although I didn't agree with how they acted at times I did feel sorry for them. Ronnie had done so well for herself but lacked any self respect for herself. Graham iss an absolute douche bag womaniser with his pathetic excuses. I was gutted about a certain part involving Tom and had really hoped it was a dream. However, should I really have been that shocked? Mrs Hawthorne certainly wasn't. Nikki was a sweet young girl just starting out in life and got swept away in romance. I did find Gio hilarious when I first met him but won't say anymore as I don't want to spoil it for future readers. I adored Paola and her daughter Francesca who were both so friendly and sweet as well as being amazing friends to Nikki, everyone deserves a Paola in their life's! I did feel for Mrs Hawthorne at times along with Charles who was sweet but sadly stuck in the past. I won't say anymore about them as I don't want to give too much away. Regardless of what I thought about who, each character worked perfectly to make this an absolutely unputdownable page turner!!!
This has got to be the best debut novels and most unique book I have ever read!!!
Congratulations Caron on a MASSIVE debut success and I would like to welcome you to my favourite author list!! I cannot wait to see what your amazing mind comes up with next!!! Here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, unique page turner with explosive twists you will never see coming!!
Genres covered in this book include Metaphysical Fiction, Psychological Literary Fiction, Romance, Visual Fiction, Psychological Fiction and Literary Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as absolutely anyone looking for a unique page turner which will blow your mind!!!
317 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheStorytellers #CaronMcKinlay #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #BookBlogger #BloodhoundBooks
@CaronMcKinlay @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @BloodhoundBooks
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...)
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May 10, 2022
I loved this book! I was really lucky to have been given the opportunity to read a pre-released copy and I am so grateful for it!
It's written with some absolutely beautiful descriptions that are simply poetic in their delivery.
This book was a labour of love and you can tell on every page. I found the characters instantly likeable as each had a story to tell that I could relate to.
This was so good that I went straight back to the beginning and read it again!
I recommend it wholeheartedly. ❤️
It's written with some absolutely beautiful descriptions that are simply poetic in their delivery.
This book was a labour of love and you can tell on every page. I found the characters instantly likeable as each had a story to tell that I could relate to.
This was so good that I went straight back to the beginning and read it again!
I recommend it wholeheartedly. ❤️
April 28, 2022
Thank you Caron McKinlay for the advance copy in exchange for a honest review. A absolutely brilliant story of three women Nikki, Ronnie and Mrss Hawthorne. They are thrown together by the mysterious Gatekeeper. He asks them to take turns to talk about their lives and the meaning of love. I found this read gripping and look forward to reading more from Caron McKinlay.
June 2, 2022
What a brilliant book. Three women, all totally different, are trapped in the afterlife, unable to move on until they assess their pasts. This is a wonderful novel. The writing is superb, the humour sharp and the premise of the book highly original. A full 5* from me. Highly recommended.
May 16, 2022
Caron McKinlay's debut novel 'The Storytellers' is brilliantly original! The stories of the three women are very different - engaging and funny, but also heartbreaking in places. The lessons they learn as the book progresses are universal. There's much food for thought beneath the surface here. This book has layers! One of the entries in the acknowledgements made me cackle, so look out for that. There are also some book club questions at the end, and I think 'The Storytellers' would make for some very interesting discussion. An empowering, thought-provoking read!
April 21, 2022
Loved , loved , loved this book ! It made me laugh, made me cry and made me think ! It stayed with me for a long time after reading it. The writing is superb and I actually felt like I was watching a movie. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
May 22, 2022
I was expecting fantasy – but although the book opens with three women on a beach, facing the gatekeeper on the fringes of the afterlife, only able to move on when they’ve satisfied him that they’ve learned the true meaning of love, this book turned out to be something entirely different. In their own clear and distinctive voices, the three women revisit their lives, lingering over their choices and the mistakes they made – and I found the whole concept quite fascinating, totally compelling and highly original.
Nikki is only 18 – insecure, overweight, desperate to find love, and she does with charismatic Italian Gio, moving to a new life in Sicily that fails to deliver the romantic idyll and happy life she’d been yearning for. Ronnie is a headmistress, strong and confident (and distinctly abrasive at times) – but if she’s firmly in control of her professional life, she struggles rather more at a personal level. Her relationship with Graham – a sex addict – seems doomed to failure and disappointment, but she’s willing to do anything (really… anything!) to win her prize. Mrs Hawthorne has met Charles, a lovely widower who has all the qualities to make him “the one” – other than the fact that he’s entirely unable to move on from the largely idealised former love of his life.
The writing is simply wonderful – filled with dark humour, pithy observation, and a great deal of poignancy – and with short chapters that keep the pages turning I became entirely caught up in the complicated lives of the three women, willing them on at every obstacle. There’s a distinctly feminist theme – although the men in their lives are superbly drawn, it’s the decisions the women make that drive the story forward – and their personal journeys grip you from the start as they each find a place in your heart. It’s emotionally compelling, thought provoking, entirely involving, unlike anything I’ve read before – and, I have to say, a really stunning and addictive read at so many levels. At times, their bad behaviour really does make you want to look away – but you soon find that’s quite impossible.
Yes, there are fantasy elements – and developments later in the book that you certainly won’t be expecting – but this really is women’s fiction at its very best, and the whole book a quite remarkable achievement for a debut author. I absolutely loved it – and I’d recommend it really highly.
Nikki is only 18 – insecure, overweight, desperate to find love, and she does with charismatic Italian Gio, moving to a new life in Sicily that fails to deliver the romantic idyll and happy life she’d been yearning for. Ronnie is a headmistress, strong and confident (and distinctly abrasive at times) – but if she’s firmly in control of her professional life, she struggles rather more at a personal level. Her relationship with Graham – a sex addict – seems doomed to failure and disappointment, but she’s willing to do anything (really… anything!) to win her prize. Mrs Hawthorne has met Charles, a lovely widower who has all the qualities to make him “the one” – other than the fact that he’s entirely unable to move on from the largely idealised former love of his life.
The writing is simply wonderful – filled with dark humour, pithy observation, and a great deal of poignancy – and with short chapters that keep the pages turning I became entirely caught up in the complicated lives of the three women, willing them on at every obstacle. There’s a distinctly feminist theme – although the men in their lives are superbly drawn, it’s the decisions the women make that drive the story forward – and their personal journeys grip you from the start as they each find a place in your heart. It’s emotionally compelling, thought provoking, entirely involving, unlike anything I’ve read before – and, I have to say, a really stunning and addictive read at so many levels. At times, their bad behaviour really does make you want to look away – but you soon find that’s quite impossible.
Yes, there are fantasy elements – and developments later in the book that you certainly won’t be expecting – but this really is women’s fiction at its very best, and the whole book a quite remarkable achievement for a debut author. I absolutely loved it – and I’d recommend it really highly.
June 6, 2022
Mind Blowing!
What an amazing read!
Lots of sex talk and my prudish self was Freaking Out, but I Could Not Stop Reading! I am So Glad I kept reading!
What an amazing read!
Lots of sex talk and my prudish self was Freaking Out, but I Could Not Stop Reading! I am So Glad I kept reading!
May 18, 2022
The Storytellers - Caron McKinlay
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I'm struggling to put into words how to review this book. It blew me away. It was so thought provoking, compelling and original. The book looks at our relationships as women and how trauma of any kind can effect us all deeply that we may stay in toxic relationships to find love.
I felt so invested in all the characters who find themselves in limbo between life and death.
SWEET Nikki, 18 years old and falling for the same lies again and again.
Ronnie in her 30s who will destroy herself to snare a man that is so not right for her.
And Mrs Hawthorne in her 60s finding love at this age but she's not the one for him.
I Really wanted all the characters to find the meaning of love and happiness before the time ran out. I loved how the women were only allowed a fragment of their memories a piece at a time that it always left me screaming no, what happens next. I have to know.
This book is compelling, honest and raw. Nothing like I've read before. This is a must read for all woman. To know your worth.
Thank you @CaronMcKinlay for sending me this book I was hooked from page one.
#bookreview #bookworm #reading #readinggoals #readingchallenge
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I'm struggling to put into words how to review this book. It blew me away. It was so thought provoking, compelling and original. The book looks at our relationships as women and how trauma of any kind can effect us all deeply that we may stay in toxic relationships to find love.
I felt so invested in all the characters who find themselves in limbo between life and death.
SWEET Nikki, 18 years old and falling for the same lies again and again.
Ronnie in her 30s who will destroy herself to snare a man that is so not right for her.
And Mrs Hawthorne in her 60s finding love at this age but she's not the one for him.
I Really wanted all the characters to find the meaning of love and happiness before the time ran out. I loved how the women were only allowed a fragment of their memories a piece at a time that it always left me screaming no, what happens next. I have to know.
This book is compelling, honest and raw. Nothing like I've read before. This is a must read for all woman. To know your worth.
Thank you @CaronMcKinlay for sending me this book I was hooked from page one.
#bookreview #bookworm #reading #readinggoals #readingchallenge
May 11, 2022
The story follows 3 women, Ronnie, Mrs Hawthorne and Nikki.
They find themselves stuck on a beach and are told to tell the Gatekeeper what they believe love is.
They all recount their disastrous love lives, Nikki with Gio, Ronnie with Graham and Mrs Hawthorne with Charles.
I think my favourite was that of Nikki and Gio. It was the most unlikely relationship and the descriptions of the fat Italian and his broken English were perfect. Nikkis isolation not only in a foreign country with no friends, but by the language and customs was perfectly described. The turquoise sea and orange groves were so beautifully written, the oppressive heat too. I felt like I was there.
It turns out all 3 men had their faults and what levels would the women go to, to sacrifice themselves, their relationships with their families and their own morals to keep these guys happy.
It is hard to believe this is a debut novel, the writing is accomplished and beautiful. It kept me hooked from very first page and I couldn't wait to pick it up everytime I had to put it down. Each character was nailed down, perfectly formed. The plot is clever, twisting and turning until it all comes to a head at the end in a breathtaking finale.
The overriding message for me was love, not necessarily romantic love from a partner but that of family, parents, siblings, and friendships. Some times there are things you cast aside but they are always there for you in the end.
Congratulations Caron, can't wait to see what comes next. You have a bright future ahead of you.
They find themselves stuck on a beach and are told to tell the Gatekeeper what they believe love is.
They all recount their disastrous love lives, Nikki with Gio, Ronnie with Graham and Mrs Hawthorne with Charles.
I think my favourite was that of Nikki and Gio. It was the most unlikely relationship and the descriptions of the fat Italian and his broken English were perfect. Nikkis isolation not only in a foreign country with no friends, but by the language and customs was perfectly described. The turquoise sea and orange groves were so beautifully written, the oppressive heat too. I felt like I was there.
It turns out all 3 men had their faults and what levels would the women go to, to sacrifice themselves, their relationships with their families and their own morals to keep these guys happy.
It is hard to believe this is a debut novel, the writing is accomplished and beautiful. It kept me hooked from very first page and I couldn't wait to pick it up everytime I had to put it down. Each character was nailed down, perfectly formed. The plot is clever, twisting and turning until it all comes to a head at the end in a breathtaking finale.
The overriding message for me was love, not necessarily romantic love from a partner but that of family, parents, siblings, and friendships. Some times there are things you cast aside but they are always there for you in the end.
Congratulations Caron, can't wait to see what comes next. You have a bright future ahead of you.
May 15, 2022
I am absolutely blown away by this fabulous novel. The clash of very different characters makes for an interesting storyline as each of them discover what love is through their own unique experiences. Each character, you can’t help but cheer on as they discover the differences between each of their experiences and their views on what makes a relationship a loving and happy one.
The words just flow so easily, the description allows for vivid description and I could easily picture them in my minds eye. As I experienced each of the separate storylines, I laughed and cried, the settings are beautiful and quirky, it’s both romantic and crass with a hint of sexual tension as the relationships progress. I loved how the two realms collide in sync with each other.
If you want predictable, don’t read this because throughout I was surprised with how the story developed with the clever twists.
This book is Caron McKinlay’s debut novel. It’s as poetic and beautifully written as many other well established authors I’ve read. I was quite surprised how well written it is and will be eagerly awaiting further work from the author because quite honestly she is an author to watch.
May 12, 2022
An absolutely wonderful debut novel from author Caron McKinlay.
We are given an intimate insight into the lives of three woman, all at different stages of their lives. Sweet and innocent, cynical yet hopeful, weary and believing to be broken beyond saving.
We are with them when they meet the men they fall for, the excitement of the first rush of love. The butterflies in the stomach, the tingle of the first touch.
We're there when a few little things start to seem off - and when things are revealed to be not quite as rosy as they first seemed.
Not for a long time has a book reeled me in so completely that I've stayed up until 12:30am just to finish it. I have read it twice, and both times I've discovered something new.
This novel is dark, witty, and devastating. Yet throughout it all, there is the sense of hope, weaving throughout the vulnerability of these three women, who have placed their trust in someone, given their heart and compromised their own lives for a shot at happiness and true love.
There are many lessons to be learnt from The Storytellers - like real life, it is a rush of different emotions. From giddy highs to devastating lows and everything in between. It all comes down to the choices we make.
Choose to read The Storytellers. It may just change your life.
We are given an intimate insight into the lives of three woman, all at different stages of their lives. Sweet and innocent, cynical yet hopeful, weary and believing to be broken beyond saving.
We are with them when they meet the men they fall for, the excitement of the first rush of love. The butterflies in the stomach, the tingle of the first touch.
We're there when a few little things start to seem off - and when things are revealed to be not quite as rosy as they first seemed.
Not for a long time has a book reeled me in so completely that I've stayed up until 12:30am just to finish it. I have read it twice, and both times I've discovered something new.
This novel is dark, witty, and devastating. Yet throughout it all, there is the sense of hope, weaving throughout the vulnerability of these three women, who have placed their trust in someone, given their heart and compromised their own lives for a shot at happiness and true love.
There are many lessons to be learnt from The Storytellers - like real life, it is a rush of different emotions. From giddy highs to devastating lows and everything in between. It all comes down to the choices we make.
Choose to read The Storytellers. It may just change your life.
May 8, 2022
My absolute 5* review of The Storytellers.
There are sometimes in your life when you read a book that just blows you away.
Whether that is emotional, psychological or even physical.
The Storytellers has it all.
I've never met such an emotional journey in a book for a long time and I'm pretty sure I won't read one again for a very long time.
This book will have you on such an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you questioning your own thoughts and feelings.
Nikki, the young eighteen year old that falls for the older Italian Gio, who promises her the world and their own perfect restaurant and life together ...but Gio has a problem can her young love for him fix his addiction?
Ronnie, perfect in every way with her career.
She is on the top of her game being a head at a local school.
But she is lacking in love until she meets Graham one of the school inspectors.
She does everything in her power to make him love her but is the price to high to pay?
Mrs Hawthorne...has loved and lost before and at her autumn age she didn't think that love would come again.
Until on a lonely park bench she meets Charles with his over enthusiastic dog and before you know it she feels love again.
But Charles still holds feelings for his late wife Clarissa. Can she convince him that everyone can still find love?
The writing is absolutely fantastic and the characters have a beautiful voice all of their own. Brilliantly executed and a wonderful debut novel.
There are sometimes in your life when you read a book that just blows you away.
Whether that is emotional, psychological or even physical.
The Storytellers has it all.
I've never met such an emotional journey in a book for a long time and I'm pretty sure I won't read one again for a very long time.
This book will have you on such an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you questioning your own thoughts and feelings.
Nikki, the young eighteen year old that falls for the older Italian Gio, who promises her the world and their own perfect restaurant and life together ...but Gio has a problem can her young love for him fix his addiction?
Ronnie, perfect in every way with her career.
She is on the top of her game being a head at a local school.
But she is lacking in love until she meets Graham one of the school inspectors.
She does everything in her power to make him love her but is the price to high to pay?
Mrs Hawthorne...has loved and lost before and at her autumn age she didn't think that love would come again.
Until on a lonely park bench she meets Charles with his over enthusiastic dog and before you know it she feels love again.
But Charles still holds feelings for his late wife Clarissa. Can she convince him that everyone can still find love?
The writing is absolutely fantastic and the characters have a beautiful voice all of their own. Brilliantly executed and a wonderful debut novel.
April 26, 2022
The Storytellers has three strong women characters who find themselves in limbo on the cusp of entering the Afterlife. They are on a beach with The Gatekeeper with no recollection of how they came to be there or any memory of their life. Little by little the Gatekeeper lets them see what led up to them arriving at their present state and what the men in their life contributed to them being there.
Each character makes a lasting impression. Nikki, an 18 year old who meets Gio and goes to Sicily to be with him only to be disillusioned by the way she is treated. Ronnie appears to be an independent career woman but she allows Graham to treat her badly thinking that it's the only way that she will keep him in her life. Finally, Mrs Hargreaves, and older lady with a chequered past as regards her choices in men who thinks that she may have finally found "the one" in widower Charles.
As a reader I went through all emotions while reading this book. As the three woman look more closely at their relationships it becomes clear that what happened in their past has made them question their self worth and led them to accepting second best.
I certainly didn't see the twist in the ending when everything becomes clear. A really enjoyable read and very different from my usual reads. Thank you to the author and Bloodhound Books for an ARC of The Storytellers.
Each character makes a lasting impression. Nikki, an 18 year old who meets Gio and goes to Sicily to be with him only to be disillusioned by the way she is treated. Ronnie appears to be an independent career woman but she allows Graham to treat her badly thinking that it's the only way that she will keep him in her life. Finally, Mrs Hargreaves, and older lady with a chequered past as regards her choices in men who thinks that she may have finally found "the one" in widower Charles.
As a reader I went through all emotions while reading this book. As the three woman look more closely at their relationships it becomes clear that what happened in their past has made them question their self worth and led them to accepting second best.
I certainly didn't see the twist in the ending when everything becomes clear. A really enjoyable read and very different from my usual reads. Thank you to the author and Bloodhound Books for an ARC of The Storytellers.
May 15, 2022
I'm not even sure how to review this.
Based on my rating, you can see that I did enjoy it though.
I actually read it in one sitting, as I was invested in the three separate (but oh so similar) stories.
In this book we follow, 3 women, at 3 different stages of their lives. They don't know each other (they don't even know themselves) when they meet at The Beach, an in-between place, neither Life or Death, and there they will be reminded of who they really are.
A very beautiful story.
Based on my rating, you can see that I did enjoy it though.
I actually read it in one sitting, as I was invested in the three separate (but oh so similar) stories.
In this book we follow, 3 women, at 3 different stages of their lives. They don't know each other (they don't even know themselves) when they meet at The Beach, an in-between place, neither Life or Death, and there they will be reminded of who they really are.
A very beautiful story.
April 22, 2022
Trapped between life and the afterlife, three women meet and share their stories while discovering the truth about the men in their lives—and about themselves...
Three women find themselves on a secluded beach in Limbo, in the company of the Gatekeeper, a mysterious entity who tells them they must prove they knew the meaning of love before they can pass on.
There is so much to this book, so many layers. On one level it reads like a psychology thriller, a mystery in which the three main characters struggle to remember what happened to them in life. On another level, it's a story about three women and their complex, dysfunctional relationships.
All of the main characters are so rich and complex, they read like real women, with all the good things and all the flaws you'd expect from real people.
It's a testament to the author's skill how beautiful the writing is here, and how a story that might sound dark is ultimately so hopeful. I really think this will be an important book for so many women, an inspiration to live their lives their own way.
This book exceeded all my expectations and I'm looking forward to reading more novels from Caron McKinlay.
Three women find themselves on a secluded beach in Limbo, in the company of the Gatekeeper, a mysterious entity who tells them they must prove they knew the meaning of love before they can pass on.
There is so much to this book, so many layers. On one level it reads like a psychology thriller, a mystery in which the three main characters struggle to remember what happened to them in life. On another level, it's a story about three women and their complex, dysfunctional relationships.
All of the main characters are so rich and complex, they read like real women, with all the good things and all the flaws you'd expect from real people.
It's a testament to the author's skill how beautiful the writing is here, and how a story that might sound dark is ultimately so hopeful. I really think this will be an important book for so many women, an inspiration to live their lives their own way.
This book exceeded all my expectations and I'm looking forward to reading more novels from Caron McKinlay.
April 21, 2022
The Storytellers is a modern feminist novel, which made me cry with unapologetic joy. It is an anthem for women everywhere, women of all ages and in all situations. I loved every word of it.
Despite its perfectly satisfying epilogue, I didn't want it to end; so credible and real are the three female protagonists, you are left yearning to share more of their lives.
The plot is unusual and often surprising, sometimes dark, always authentic and both beautifully and skillfully crafted. The reader is plunged into the lives of the three ladies, cheering them on from the sidelines, willing them to succeed, everytime The Gatekeeper reveals more of their stories.
It's been a long time since a story gripped me and moved me as much as The Storytellers did. I can't wait for Caron McKinlay's next novel.
Despite its perfectly satisfying epilogue, I didn't want it to end; so credible and real are the three female protagonists, you are left yearning to share more of their lives.
The plot is unusual and often surprising, sometimes dark, always authentic and both beautifully and skillfully crafted. The reader is plunged into the lives of the three ladies, cheering them on from the sidelines, willing them to succeed, everytime The Gatekeeper reveals more of their stories.
It's been a long time since a story gripped me and moved me as much as The Storytellers did. I can't wait for Caron McKinlay's next novel.
May 4, 2022
Wow Wow & Wow
What a fantastic debut novel, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
The book centres around 3 women: Nikki a girl in her late teens who falls for Gio an Italian; Ronnie ahead teacher who believes that she has met the one in Graham what lengths will she go to, to keep her man; and Mrs Hawthorn does she find her true love in a Scottish Park. They have ended up on a beach together with the gatekeeper who asks them an all-important question ‘What is love’
As the book unfolds, we get an insight into each of their relationships what lengths they will go to, to be loved, the good and the bad as they try and answer the question. We see them getting annoyed, comforting each other, and distancing from each other.
An amazing book, a total original, I never seen or guest the twist at the end of the book. Definitely a 5 star read.
What a fantastic debut novel, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
The book centres around 3 women: Nikki a girl in her late teens who falls for Gio an Italian; Ronnie ahead teacher who believes that she has met the one in Graham what lengths will she go to, to keep her man; and Mrs Hawthorn does she find her true love in a Scottish Park. They have ended up on a beach together with the gatekeeper who asks them an all-important question ‘What is love’
As the book unfolds, we get an insight into each of their relationships what lengths they will go to, to be loved, the good and the bad as they try and answer the question. We see them getting annoyed, comforting each other, and distancing from each other.
An amazing book, a total original, I never seen or guest the twist at the end of the book. Definitely a 5 star read.
April 22, 2022
An absolutely brilliant book that keeps you engaged right to the end. You empathise and cheer for each of the three characters and their characters are so beautifully formed. You feel,like you are living their lives with them.
Nikki is a young girl who falls for the older Italian, Gio. She wants a fairytale life and he promises that but it doesn’t quite work out.
Ronnie has a great career but isn’t happy in relationships. She has to compromise to get east she wants.
Mrs Hawthorne has lost her husband and is not looking for another relationship until she meets Charles, a widower.
All three characters have you rooting for them to have a happy ending. An absolutely brilliant book that you won’t be able to put down.
April 21, 2022
Caron McKinlay's debut is one of a kind. The book switches between three different women who share their own stories of love and loss, their struggles and their triumphs. You really feel as though you are going through their lives with them. The book draws you in with fantastic skill; I often found myself thinking about the characters while I wasn't reading, wondering what they would do next. The book is one of the cleverest I have read - just when you think you understand the essence of the story, you're left breathless! I could not recommend this book highly enough.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
May 6, 2022
What a really great read, told from three perspectives. We have Nikki young, gullible and looking for love in all the wrong places, Ronnie who seems to know what she wants and nothing will stop her getting it and then Mrs Hawthorne who seems content with her lot in life, or is she. Three women on a journey of love, life and tribulations all gather at the edge of entering the afterlife, but first they must get past the gatekeeper and to do this they must convince him they know the true meaning of love
May 9, 2022
I adored THE STORYTELLERS: bold, compelling, full of warmth, and sprinkled with deliciously dark humour. Absolutely brilliant.
May 31, 2022
What a stunningly original and beautifully written book! And a debut, which makes it even more remarkable, as the author has crafted a tale which speaks of an innate talent.
From the start I was drawn into the lives of the three main characters. So very different, each facing the challenges of life and relationships and thrown together in a unique and mysterious setting.
I won't go into depth about the plot. The blurb is sufficient to pique the reader's interest, without giving away the intricacies of the storyline.
So many wonderful and memorable lines along the way:
Snared. Like an irritant inside a saltwater oyster.
If younger, I'd spring towards him and jump into his lap, but creaking bones and sore knees make the journey muted and longer. The decades, thieves of spontaneity.
Have I not had enough experience to recognise the lure of the bastards? The ones that make you fly with their words then slice your wings with their actions.
A difficult book to categorise, which is no bad thing. Put aside any preconceptions and simply embrace each and every wonderful page. Because the story told is one that will remain with you for a long time…
From the start I was drawn into the lives of the three main characters. So very different, each facing the challenges of life and relationships and thrown together in a unique and mysterious setting.
I won't go into depth about the plot. The blurb is sufficient to pique the reader's interest, without giving away the intricacies of the storyline.
So many wonderful and memorable lines along the way:
Snared. Like an irritant inside a saltwater oyster.
If younger, I'd spring towards him and jump into his lap, but creaking bones and sore knees make the journey muted and longer. The decades, thieves of spontaneity.
Have I not had enough experience to recognise the lure of the bastards? The ones that make you fly with their words then slice your wings with their actions.
A difficult book to categorise, which is no bad thing. Put aside any preconceptions and simply embrace each and every wonderful page. Because the story told is one that will remain with you for a long time…
May 30, 2022
I rarely give a book a 5 but this deserves a 6 !
Love Love Love it 😍
Debut novel from Caron McKinlay about 3 ladies caught between life and the afterlife. On a beach of reflection and self discovery.
Initially I thought this book was going to follow the path of the Midnight Library by Matt Haig. But where Haig lost his way and failed to deliver, McKinlay knocked it out of the park.
McKinlay’s easy, fast paced prose and hilarious storytelling, means you can easily just jump in and devour the story without any tedious preamble.
I easily get bored half way through a book and force myself to push through, but not in this occasion. The swift short chapters make it delightful to put down and pick up, without losing pace. Great for those who like me, snatch some precious reading time where possible.
No spoilers here but a cleverly self reflective story, which resonates with all us wonderfully flawed humans, who try too hard to be everything to everyone else, at the detriment of our own true soul. It’s never too late to rewrite the narrative folks ❤️
Eagerly awaiting the next book ❤️
Love Love Love it 😍
Debut novel from Caron McKinlay about 3 ladies caught between life and the afterlife. On a beach of reflection and self discovery.
Initially I thought this book was going to follow the path of the Midnight Library by Matt Haig. But where Haig lost his way and failed to deliver, McKinlay knocked it out of the park.
McKinlay’s easy, fast paced prose and hilarious storytelling, means you can easily just jump in and devour the story without any tedious preamble.
I easily get bored half way through a book and force myself to push through, but not in this occasion. The swift short chapters make it delightful to put down and pick up, without losing pace. Great for those who like me, snatch some precious reading time where possible.
No spoilers here but a cleverly self reflective story, which resonates with all us wonderfully flawed humans, who try too hard to be everything to everyone else, at the detriment of our own true soul. It’s never too late to rewrite the narrative folks ❤️
Eagerly awaiting the next book ❤️
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