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Simon Schuster UK House That Made Us.
One Day meets Up : The House That Made Us is a love story – and a life story – told through a series of photographs and inspired by a true story When Mac and Marie marry and find a home of their own, Mac takes a snap of them outside their newbuild bungalow, the garden bare and the paint on the front door still wet. It becomes a tradition, this snap, and slowly the photographs build into an album of a fifty-year relationship. Every year they take a photo and though things change around them – the garden matures, the fashions change, they grow older – the one constant is their love. Every year, come rain, come shine, from the Seventies through the decades, every photo tells the story of their love. But life never travels the path you expect it to, though they know that a life with love is a life lived to the full.Now, in the present day, the photo album belongs to someone who doesn’t know the people in its pages. As they watch the lives from the past unfold, will the truth of their love story be told…? A heart-breaking story about life and love for readers who love Holly Miller, Jojo Moyes and Hazel Prior.
384 pages, Paperback
Published April 19, 2023
About the author
Alice Cavanagh
5 books4 followersAlice Cavanagh was born in Fulham and still lives in London. She writes under a variety of names, including her real name, Bernadette Strachan, and as Juliet Ashton.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 24, 2023
July 1970, a house called Sunnyside and a newly married couple Marie and Ian (Mac) Mactavish. Mac is attempting to carry Marie over the threshold. The first photograph and their first meeting with the grumpy neighbour who was forever known as ‘Next Door’. There will be many more photographs taken outside the door of Sunnyside, each one documenting their life together, the fashion faux pas, the ups and the downs.
Marie came from a large boisterous Irish family, whereas Mac had virtually no family at all. Apart from his aunt Tatty who wasn’t the most effusive of women when it came to attention and affection.
Marie and Mac’s story was one of love, happiness, sorrow and humour. Every time an emergency depleted their much wanted cruise savings or forced their plans to change, my heart broke a little for them. Every family crisis, each drama involving their children and wider family was told with warmth and compassion. It wasn’t just Marie and Mac that captivated me with their big hearts, but the rest of the family too; including the fiercely independent Tatty, the drama that formed the life of Marie’s sister Bernie, the two Adrians – characters so engaging and likeable. I couldn’t help smiling at Marie’s devotion to Princess Diana, an obsession borne from sadness. I felt her disappointment when she had to keep putting her own career ambitions on hold. “The universe was petty. Why does it keep ruining my dreams, when they’re so small they’re barely visible to the naked eye?” Mac’s yearning for a father in his life made me feel so grateful for the one that used to be in mine.
Another perspective, In the present day, and alongside Mac and Marie’s story is that of an older couple and a woman with a fading memory looking though a photo album. These interactions were cleverly worked into the story and I found these segments incredibly poignant, reminding me of my own parents and their hundreds of photos which I have.
Inspired by a true story, The House that Made Us reflects on love, family, and lives well-lived both in good times and bad. Alongside the smiles there were times when I had something in my eye but I absolutely loved it and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend. I already have it marked as one of my favourite books of the year.
Marie came from a large boisterous Irish family, whereas Mac had virtually no family at all. Apart from his aunt Tatty who wasn’t the most effusive of women when it came to attention and affection.
Marie and Mac’s story was one of love, happiness, sorrow and humour. Every time an emergency depleted their much wanted cruise savings or forced their plans to change, my heart broke a little for them. Every family crisis, each drama involving their children and wider family was told with warmth and compassion. It wasn’t just Marie and Mac that captivated me with their big hearts, but the rest of the family too; including the fiercely independent Tatty, the drama that formed the life of Marie’s sister Bernie, the two Adrians – characters so engaging and likeable. I couldn’t help smiling at Marie’s devotion to Princess Diana, an obsession borne from sadness. I felt her disappointment when she had to keep putting her own career ambitions on hold. “The universe was petty. Why does it keep ruining my dreams, when they’re so small they’re barely visible to the naked eye?” Mac’s yearning for a father in his life made me feel so grateful for the one that used to be in mine.
Another perspective, In the present day, and alongside Mac and Marie’s story is that of an older couple and a woman with a fading memory looking though a photo album. These interactions were cleverly worked into the story and I found these segments incredibly poignant, reminding me of my own parents and their hundreds of photos which I have.
Inspired by a true story, The House that Made Us reflects on love, family, and lives well-lived both in good times and bad. Alongside the smiles there were times when I had something in my eye but I absolutely loved it and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend. I already have it marked as one of my favourite books of the year.
February 21, 2023
Just lovely!
January 15, 2023
The House That Made Us is a beautiful, heartwarming read about love and life throughout the years.
The story is told from two points of view; one following an elderly lady in a nursing home who has found a photo album showing a couple posing in front of their house every year and one telling the story of Mac and Marie, the couple behind the photograph. Mac & Marie’s part is longer and I found it really intriguing to follow them throughout the years. The author gives the reader a fly on the wall glimpse into their lives and I felt very involved in all that happens to them. I liked that the story seemed realistic with the author describing sad events alongside the lighter, happier occasions. The later storyline, following the lady who had found the photo album, was intriguing as I was interested to see how it tied with Mac & Marie’s story.
Mac & Marie were wonderful characters that I just fell in love with. I loved how different the two of them were but how they managed to compliment each other, helping each other when they needed it. Marie is as strong as Mac is sensitive and this makes them such a wonderful couple to follow. I was absolutely cheering in some of the moments when Marie stands up for her or Mac’s dreams but crying with them at some of the emotional parts of the story too. Marie’s big, Irish family were also a joy to read about and I loved the madcap moments when they were all together. I especially liked the wonderful relationship Mac and his father in law had which often had me laughing out loud as they tried to stand up to their strong wives. They all started to seem like old friends and I was very sad to close the book and leave them behind.
Huge thanks to Sara-Jade from Simon and Schuster for inviting me onto the blog tour and for my copy of this book.
The story is told from two points of view; one following an elderly lady in a nursing home who has found a photo album showing a couple posing in front of their house every year and one telling the story of Mac and Marie, the couple behind the photograph. Mac & Marie’s part is longer and I found it really intriguing to follow them throughout the years. The author gives the reader a fly on the wall glimpse into their lives and I felt very involved in all that happens to them. I liked that the story seemed realistic with the author describing sad events alongside the lighter, happier occasions. The later storyline, following the lady who had found the photo album, was intriguing as I was interested to see how it tied with Mac & Marie’s story.
Mac & Marie were wonderful characters that I just fell in love with. I loved how different the two of them were but how they managed to compliment each other, helping each other when they needed it. Marie is as strong as Mac is sensitive and this makes them such a wonderful couple to follow. I was absolutely cheering in some of the moments when Marie stands up for her or Mac’s dreams but crying with them at some of the emotional parts of the story too. Marie’s big, Irish family were also a joy to read about and I loved the madcap moments when they were all together. I especially liked the wonderful relationship Mac and his father in law had which often had me laughing out loud as they tried to stand up to their strong wives. They all started to seem like old friends and I was very sad to close the book and leave them behind.
Huge thanks to Sara-Jade from Simon and Schuster for inviting me onto the blog tour and for my copy of this book.
January 21, 2023
The House That Made Us is a beautiful heartfelt story full of love. There was something so poignant about the sharing of the photo album - memories captured to be shared and remembered. A memory for me of times gone by too as my mum had many a photo album capturing those little moments in life that today we all to easily forget.
I loved the relationship between Mac and Marie - one of those true love stories that felt so real. The support they gave to eachother through thick and thin was wonderful- building memories together.
January 15, 2023
The House That Made Us is a truly gorgeous and heart-warming story by Alice Cavanagh. It’s a book where both the plot and the wonderful varied cast of characters subtly and slowly inch by inch get under your skin and by the conclusion, they have found a firm pace in your heart. So much so that you are reluctant to leave them go. Admittedly, it did take quite some time for me to get into the book but upon reflection I am wondering is that the way it was meant to come across. That just like the characters and the house and family that bind them together, you as a reader grow with the family as the years pass them by. That you become more immersed in their life as they mature and you come to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of each them who come together to form a family unit that becomes very special but at the same time is unique and an assortment of personalities which come with a range of issues. This is a story about love and life and the bumps in the road, unexpected struggles and diversions that can occur to set us off track but the one thing that remains steadfast is the deep and abiding love that the two main characters have for each other. Out of which a family is created and one which you will find difficult to leave behind once you reach the final word.
I found the chapters to be short throughout and several years could pass between a chapter or two. Usually, I would find this disconcerting and liken it to just too much jumping around the overall timeline. Here, it worked perfectly, the concise chapters gave us the information we needed to know and the sentiment, emotions and range of feelings were coming across perfectly. It never felt rushed as if the story was galloping ahead and I found the pacing to be ideal as there was a significant period of time to cover. We watch the creation, development and evolution of a family which shows how love can be a constant anxiety but also one of recovery and satisfaction. One line really summed up the book in its entirety. A life well lived is a life well loved and these characters sum up this statement to a t. Initially, I did think oh this is going nowhere and it felt like the same things would be repeated over and over as the years pass by.But having finished reading this wonderful book, I could see how clearly, cleverly and expertly the author had plotted everything out. A bigger picture was being built up and the pieces would all come together in a suitable manner.
Each chapter begins with a man visiting a woman who you soon can tell is in a home. It’s clear the woman has some form of trouble with her memory. At each visit they look at a photo album which chronicles the life of a family. Each year on an anniversary, a photo is taken and as the number of photos build up a picture is formed of the family who live at Sunnyside. I was so sure I understood why this little titbit was at the beginning of each chapter. I was actually too smug in my opinions and I say fair play and bravo for pulling the wool over my eyes as I was surprised as to the ending but it was perfect for the story that had ben told even if perhaps it was not what I and I am sure many readers would have wanted but it had to be there for the story as a whole to come full circle.
July 1970 and Mac and Marie are stepping over the threshold of their new home, Sunnyside, as newlyweds. Mac hopes this new life will get rid of the loneliness he feels. It will be a bridge from the dark chill of Mac’s past. You instantly wonder what has happened to Mac to make him feel this way and the question of his parents and what happened to them is one which persists throughout the book but not so that it takes over the entire plot. Instead, it rises to the surface at just the ideal time. His Aunt Tatty had reared him and had done her best but still he feels the absence of a deep love keenly and hopes and really he knows deep down inside that Marie is the one who fill that gap.
Marie is originally from Ireland but came to work in England and is so proud that she has an apprenticeship with Vidal Sassoon but soon that is put to one side as she falls pregnant with their son Dan and soon after the birth her life ventures off in a different direction and her emotions and stance are questioned. Marie’s family were a brilliant addition to the story. The typical Irish family who brought many moments of laughter but also there was a more serious side too. The author completely nailed Marie’s family. The Irish mannerisms and ways of thinking were just spot on and really enhanced the story. Marie’s family are chaotic and she had a wonderful childhood so different to what Mac experienced. Her sister Bernie had a brilliant storyline and it could have felt as if she was the hanger on, just a character thrown in for good measure. In fact, there were several characters that could have come across in that manner but instead they all have a valid role and firmly fill a place and you come to care for them as much as you do Mac and Marie.
There is not a lot you can say about specific details regarding the plot as a lot happens as the years roll by which as I have mentioned occur with each chapter. The author is building up one big picture of a family who are like any other. It’s only when you peer that little closer and dig that little bit deeper that you come to learn of all their ups and downs. I loved the running joke from beginning to end of Mac and Marie always trying to save enough to go off on a cruise somewhere and each time they just about reach their goal. Well, a spanner is thrown in the works. This could have become tiresome, but it didn’t at all as it allowed other subplots to develop which continued to run for several chapters. It never felt contrived at all. In fact nothing about the story did and I just grew to love the characters more and more and I found myself feeling sentimental about them and the situations they found themselves in.
As the years pass by, a daughter is born Emma, who in turn allows for an even deeper exploration of family dynamics particularly the relationship between herself and her brother Dan. You see how Mac and Marie navigate the challenges that come with rearing children even right into their adult life. Both Mac and Marie grow and mature and become vastly different people from the two that walked through the door of Sunnyside for the first time. You get the feeling that they are both on this one long journey together which they fully entered into when they got married and this journey has brought troubles and challenges but also so many moments of happiness, love and contentment. Their love story is a joy to read and will tug at the heartstrings. They have ambitions which are tested but what always shines through is the love they have for another which is tested but whether it stands the test of time that is for you to discover.
The House That Made Us is a little gem of a book that I am so glad I read. It would be such a shame to let this brilliant story pass you by as it so warm and inviting. It has a simple premise that could have been another just run of the mill book, that is nice at the time of reading but you know it will not be the most memorable. Instead, it was the total opposite with memorable characters that you come to root for all the way. This was a lovely introduction to the writing of Alice Cavanagh and I look forward to reading much more from her in the future.
I found the chapters to be short throughout and several years could pass between a chapter or two. Usually, I would find this disconcerting and liken it to just too much jumping around the overall timeline. Here, it worked perfectly, the concise chapters gave us the information we needed to know and the sentiment, emotions and range of feelings were coming across perfectly. It never felt rushed as if the story was galloping ahead and I found the pacing to be ideal as there was a significant period of time to cover. We watch the creation, development and evolution of a family which shows how love can be a constant anxiety but also one of recovery and satisfaction. One line really summed up the book in its entirety. A life well lived is a life well loved and these characters sum up this statement to a t. Initially, I did think oh this is going nowhere and it felt like the same things would be repeated over and over as the years pass by.But having finished reading this wonderful book, I could see how clearly, cleverly and expertly the author had plotted everything out. A bigger picture was being built up and the pieces would all come together in a suitable manner.
Each chapter begins with a man visiting a woman who you soon can tell is in a home. It’s clear the woman has some form of trouble with her memory. At each visit they look at a photo album which chronicles the life of a family. Each year on an anniversary, a photo is taken and as the number of photos build up a picture is formed of the family who live at Sunnyside. I was so sure I understood why this little titbit was at the beginning of each chapter. I was actually too smug in my opinions and I say fair play and bravo for pulling the wool over my eyes as I was surprised as to the ending but it was perfect for the story that had ben told even if perhaps it was not what I and I am sure many readers would have wanted but it had to be there for the story as a whole to come full circle.
July 1970 and Mac and Marie are stepping over the threshold of their new home, Sunnyside, as newlyweds. Mac hopes this new life will get rid of the loneliness he feels. It will be a bridge from the dark chill of Mac’s past. You instantly wonder what has happened to Mac to make him feel this way and the question of his parents and what happened to them is one which persists throughout the book but not so that it takes over the entire plot. Instead, it rises to the surface at just the ideal time. His Aunt Tatty had reared him and had done her best but still he feels the absence of a deep love keenly and hopes and really he knows deep down inside that Marie is the one who fill that gap.
Marie is originally from Ireland but came to work in England and is so proud that she has an apprenticeship with Vidal Sassoon but soon that is put to one side as she falls pregnant with their son Dan and soon after the birth her life ventures off in a different direction and her emotions and stance are questioned. Marie’s family were a brilliant addition to the story. The typical Irish family who brought many moments of laughter but also there was a more serious side too. The author completely nailed Marie’s family. The Irish mannerisms and ways of thinking were just spot on and really enhanced the story. Marie’s family are chaotic and she had a wonderful childhood so different to what Mac experienced. Her sister Bernie had a brilliant storyline and it could have felt as if she was the hanger on, just a character thrown in for good measure. In fact, there were several characters that could have come across in that manner but instead they all have a valid role and firmly fill a place and you come to care for them as much as you do Mac and Marie.
There is not a lot you can say about specific details regarding the plot as a lot happens as the years roll by which as I have mentioned occur with each chapter. The author is building up one big picture of a family who are like any other. It’s only when you peer that little closer and dig that little bit deeper that you come to learn of all their ups and downs. I loved the running joke from beginning to end of Mac and Marie always trying to save enough to go off on a cruise somewhere and each time they just about reach their goal. Well, a spanner is thrown in the works. This could have become tiresome, but it didn’t at all as it allowed other subplots to develop which continued to run for several chapters. It never felt contrived at all. In fact nothing about the story did and I just grew to love the characters more and more and I found myself feeling sentimental about them and the situations they found themselves in.
As the years pass by, a daughter is born Emma, who in turn allows for an even deeper exploration of family dynamics particularly the relationship between herself and her brother Dan. You see how Mac and Marie navigate the challenges that come with rearing children even right into their adult life. Both Mac and Marie grow and mature and become vastly different people from the two that walked through the door of Sunnyside for the first time. You get the feeling that they are both on this one long journey together which they fully entered into when they got married and this journey has brought troubles and challenges but also so many moments of happiness, love and contentment. Their love story is a joy to read and will tug at the heartstrings. They have ambitions which are tested but what always shines through is the love they have for another which is tested but whether it stands the test of time that is for you to discover.
The House That Made Us is a little gem of a book that I am so glad I read. It would be such a shame to let this brilliant story pass you by as it so warm and inviting. It has a simple premise that could have been another just run of the mill book, that is nice at the time of reading but you know it will not be the most memorable. Instead, it was the total opposite with memorable characters that you come to root for all the way. This was a lovely introduction to the writing of Alice Cavanagh and I look forward to reading much more from her in the future.
February 2, 2023
At the start of the book we are introduced to two unnamed characters that are looking through a photo album. That photo album contains the story of Mac, Marie and their home which they call Sunnyside. Each photo in the album documents Mac and Marie’s story from the first day they moved into Sunnyside to the present. But who were Mac and Marie and what is their story?
I found this to be a really enjoyable and heart-warming read. The story was unique and I loved the idea of Mac and Marie’s life story being documented in a photo album which was being looked at by a stranger. This is a duel timeline story. In the present we have the photo album being looked at by a stranger and each photo being discussed with their companion about how Mac and Marie’s life has changed each year based on the next picture in the album. As each page is turned we are taken back to the past where we meet Mac and Marie. We are given an insight into their first day at Sunnyside as a married couple and then we follow their story to the present date. It was interesting to learn about Mac and Marie’s life story but also the stories of the people that surround them and their extended families. Mac and Marie go through a lot together as a couple but also as a family. We follow their journey from a newly married couple, to becoming parents, to becoming grandparents. As individuals Mac and Marie have very different family backgrounds. Mac lost his parents when he was a baby and was raised by his aunt. Growing up he wanted nothing more than a big family. Marie comes from a very big family and she initially planned to pursue her hairdressing career after marriage until she fell pregnant. In marrying Marie, Mac not only fulfilled his dream of starting a family but also became a part of Marie’s big family. One of the things I found interesting about the storyline is when Mac starts to delve into who his parents were and finds long buried secrets that were kept from him growing up.
I thought I had an inkling as to who the stranger was that was looking through the photo album. But when there was a plot twist towards the end of the book I realised I was completely wrong when the character’s identity was revealed. It was a very pleasant surprise and one I could never have guessed or anticipated.
An emotional and heartwarming read about the story of one family spanning many years.
I found this to be a really enjoyable and heart-warming read. The story was unique and I loved the idea of Mac and Marie’s life story being documented in a photo album which was being looked at by a stranger. This is a duel timeline story. In the present we have the photo album being looked at by a stranger and each photo being discussed with their companion about how Mac and Marie’s life has changed each year based on the next picture in the album. As each page is turned we are taken back to the past where we meet Mac and Marie. We are given an insight into their first day at Sunnyside as a married couple and then we follow their story to the present date. It was interesting to learn about Mac and Marie’s life story but also the stories of the people that surround them and their extended families. Mac and Marie go through a lot together as a couple but also as a family. We follow their journey from a newly married couple, to becoming parents, to becoming grandparents. As individuals Mac and Marie have very different family backgrounds. Mac lost his parents when he was a baby and was raised by his aunt. Growing up he wanted nothing more than a big family. Marie comes from a very big family and she initially planned to pursue her hairdressing career after marriage until she fell pregnant. In marrying Marie, Mac not only fulfilled his dream of starting a family but also became a part of Marie’s big family. One of the things I found interesting about the storyline is when Mac starts to delve into who his parents were and finds long buried secrets that were kept from him growing up.
I thought I had an inkling as to who the stranger was that was looking through the photo album. But when there was a plot twist towards the end of the book I realised I was completely wrong when the character’s identity was revealed. It was a very pleasant surprise and one I could never have guessed or anticipated.
An emotional and heartwarming read about the story of one family spanning many years.
January 15, 2023
From the very first pages I knew this was going to be an emotional read.
Two unknown people looking at a photo album that retells the lives of Mac and Marie with photographs of their life at their home Sunnyside. From a young married couple in the 1970s, the addition of their children and the ups and downs in their relationships over the years. It looks at some emotive issues, such as post natal depression and miscarriage but are written about really sensitively.
I was born in the 1970s so it was like a walk down memory lane as the author writes about Prince Charles and Lady Di’s wedding and the street parties that were held. I loved the detailed look at family dynamics and how Mac and Maria grow as people throughout the book. The book covers marriage, children, grandchildren, and so much more. Mac and Marie are such wonderful characters warm and likeable you will become part of life at Sunnyside.
It is like reading about a real family that totally encapsulates you as you read on. I am not afraid to say that it brought tears to my eyes on a number of occasions but this added to the experience of this gorgeous book. It also made me smile alot as you realise that life moves on.
I will remember Mac, Marie and Sunnyside for along time a beautifully written story.
5 stars *****
Two unknown people looking at a photo album that retells the lives of Mac and Marie with photographs of their life at their home Sunnyside. From a young married couple in the 1970s, the addition of their children and the ups and downs in their relationships over the years. It looks at some emotive issues, such as post natal depression and miscarriage but are written about really sensitively.
I was born in the 1970s so it was like a walk down memory lane as the author writes about Prince Charles and Lady Di’s wedding and the street parties that were held. I loved the detailed look at family dynamics and how Mac and Maria grow as people throughout the book. The book covers marriage, children, grandchildren, and so much more. Mac and Marie are such wonderful characters warm and likeable you will become part of life at Sunnyside.
It is like reading about a real family that totally encapsulates you as you read on. I am not afraid to say that it brought tears to my eyes on a number of occasions but this added to the experience of this gorgeous book. It also made me smile alot as you realise that life moves on.
I will remember Mac, Marie and Sunnyside for along time a beautifully written story.
5 stars *****
January 15, 2023
I can’t recommend this enough if you love a good tearjerker!
This story of a married couple moving into their first home and growing up, having a family then growing old there, is so moving. It’s romantic, devastating at times, funny, and everything in between - basically your emotions will be put through the wringer! But it’s absolutely worth it because Mac and Marie are lovely characters, and the whole book gave me The Notebook/Up vibes! There’s also a little bit of a mystery element which I won’t spoil but which I got totally wrong 🤦♀️ You’ll definitely need tissues (husband came running up wondering what was wrong with me at one point because I was crying so loudly!), but overall it really is a heartwarming read that shows the endurance of love through hard times. Easy five stars from me!
This story of a married couple moving into their first home and growing up, having a family then growing old there, is so moving. It’s romantic, devastating at times, funny, and everything in between - basically your emotions will be put through the wringer! But it’s absolutely worth it because Mac and Marie are lovely characters, and the whole book gave me The Notebook/Up vibes! There’s also a little bit of a mystery element which I won’t spoil but which I got totally wrong 🤦♀️ You’ll definitely need tissues (husband came running up wondering what was wrong with me at one point because I was crying so loudly!), but overall it really is a heartwarming read that shows the endurance of love through hard times. Easy five stars from me!
June 25, 2023
Before The Book Depository closed down, I bought some books on the recommendation of other bloggers. This was published earlier this year, and I just got around to reading and reviewing it. You can find my full review here. https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2023/06/2...
August 25, 2024
Love this book. Have read it countless times, it still makes me smile and also sad at times.
July 5, 2025
Magyarul. “Sunnyside. A ház, amit építettünk”. (Az eredeti cím szerint “A ház, ami minket épített”.) Az egyik legjobb könyv, amit mostanában olvastam!
April 8, 2023
A beautiful heartwarming story.
A hug in a book.
Would recommend 💕
A hug in a book.
Would recommend 💕
January 3, 2023
A really lovely story. I really enjoyed coming back to the family time and time again as it meant you ended up really invested in the characters and their lives. Full review to come as part of blog tour
November 18, 2022
This is a really thoughtful read about a couple’s life together told over the years by their photograph book which features a picture from their anniversary every year. The book is in the possession of an older woman in a care home and every time she has a certain male visitor she insists on looking at one photo with him each time, these meetings form the start of the chapters that then look back on what happened to Mac and Marie that year.
This is just a beautiful character read which tells the story of a couple’s life together with plenty of life’s drama and ever changing family events. I really felt invested in their lives and the way life continually seemed to get in the way of their dreams but how they still made the most of what they had and their love for each other remained strong. It’s a very simple story but full of heart and is beautifully written and very heartwarming, 9/10
This is just a beautiful character read which tells the story of a couple’s life together with plenty of life’s drama and ever changing family events. I really felt invested in their lives and the way life continually seemed to get in the way of their dreams but how they still made the most of what they had and their love for each other remained strong. It’s a very simple story but full of heart and is beautifully written and very heartwarming, 9/10
January 19, 2023
I’m not sure I’m going to be able to express how big an impression this book left on me. On the face of it, it’s the simple story of a newlywed young couple moving into their first home and starting a family which then follows them through the next fifty years or so. And yet for all it is a simple story, it’s a big beautiful story of love.
I absolutely adored Mac and Marie. Their strong and steadfast love for each was apparent on every page and their support for each other through the ups and downs of life was wonderful to read about. Alice Cavanagh wrote so beautifully about how they supported each other and how they always believed in each other. It reminded me very much of my own parents’ marriage. They were married in 1966 and together until my dad’s death in 2018. I was born in 1970, the year Mac and Marie got married, so a lot of the book was like a trip down memory lane.
Mac and Marie seemed so opposite to each other. She was loud and enthusiastic and loved bright colours. Yes, those Seventies brown and orange swirly carpets featured, as well as avocado bathroom suites! Mac was much more placid and not a fan of loud colours but quietly supported his wife’s choices anyway. Their families were so different as well. Marie came from an exuberant big Irish family whereas Mac was brought up by an aunt. What makes a family is a big theme in this book and what is shown to be so important isn’t necessarily blood ties but love.
And that’s the word that keep coming back to me when I think about this book – love. Love shines throughout the book and is shown in so many different ways. One of the characters says at one point that Mac didn’t need to say he loved someone, he showed it every day. This too reminded me of my dad. This was such an emotional read for me and would have me giggling on one page then with a big lump in my throat on another. I’m not ashamed to say that certain points had me in bits.
I can’t recommend The House That Made Us highly enough. It’s a tender, emotional and uplifting story of a family, a home and the love that fills it. Mac and Marie are wonderful characters and their compelling love story will remain with me for a long time.
I absolutely adored Mac and Marie. Their strong and steadfast love for each was apparent on every page and their support for each other through the ups and downs of life was wonderful to read about. Alice Cavanagh wrote so beautifully about how they supported each other and how they always believed in each other. It reminded me very much of my own parents’ marriage. They were married in 1966 and together until my dad’s death in 2018. I was born in 1970, the year Mac and Marie got married, so a lot of the book was like a trip down memory lane.
Mac and Marie seemed so opposite to each other. She was loud and enthusiastic and loved bright colours. Yes, those Seventies brown and orange swirly carpets featured, as well as avocado bathroom suites! Mac was much more placid and not a fan of loud colours but quietly supported his wife’s choices anyway. Their families were so different as well. Marie came from an exuberant big Irish family whereas Mac was brought up by an aunt. What makes a family is a big theme in this book and what is shown to be so important isn’t necessarily blood ties but love.
And that’s the word that keep coming back to me when I think about this book – love. Love shines throughout the book and is shown in so many different ways. One of the characters says at one point that Mac didn’t need to say he loved someone, he showed it every day. This too reminded me of my dad. This was such an emotional read for me and would have me giggling on one page then with a big lump in my throat on another. I’m not ashamed to say that certain points had me in bits.
I can’t recommend The House That Made Us highly enough. It’s a tender, emotional and uplifting story of a family, a home and the love that fills it. Mac and Marie are wonderful characters and their compelling love story will remain with me for a long time.
May 12, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
I thought the author did a good job of reflecting the times through values, fashions and behaviours and showing how these changed over the years. Likewise, the effects events had on relationships were beautifully - written and completely credible; thoughts, feelings and emotions were explored and conveyed and I liked the way the main characters demonstrated their (sometimes tough) love within the family.
The main drawback for me was the passages within the care home, I thought these could have been left out without losing anything from the story. I also thought Ian's illness was tidied up rather too quickly - a new specialist changing everything is extremely unlikely with treatment criteria and the way waiting lists are managed. This made me reduce my rating by 1 star.
I thought the author did a good job of reflecting the times through values, fashions and behaviours and showing how these changed over the years. Likewise, the effects events had on relationships were beautifully - written and completely credible; thoughts, feelings and emotions were explored and conveyed and I liked the way the main characters demonstrated their (sometimes tough) love within the family.
The main drawback for me was the passages within the care home, I thought these could have been left out without losing anything from the story. I also thought Ian's illness was tidied up rather too quickly - a new specialist changing everything is extremely unlikely with treatment criteria and the way waiting lists are managed. This made me reduce my rating by 1 star.
January 20, 2023
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I finished this book about a week ago and I am still thinking about these characters. This book is about a young couple, Mac and Marie. We see them move into their home after just getting married. We see them start a family and then we see how that family grows over the years. The ups and downs that every family faces. The growing and shrinking of every family with babies, new partners and sadly the passing of some members.
I really loved this little family. Mac and Marie are such a sweet couple. I loved being by their side through everything. I felt like my emotions were right there with them. Through every laugh and every tear, I was by their side feeling it all with them.
I loved the way the book was set out with a picture each year outside their house. I like little things like this which make a book unique. Some years were skipped but that was okay. We saw the milestones and it didn't feel like you were missing out on anything. The story is well-paced and the plot is well-thought-out.
I was so sad when this story was over. I was so reluctant to leave these characters behind. I'd definitely recommend this book!
I really loved this little family. Mac and Marie are such a sweet couple. I loved being by their side through everything. I felt like my emotions were right there with them. Through every laugh and every tear, I was by their side feeling it all with them.
I loved the way the book was set out with a picture each year outside their house. I like little things like this which make a book unique. Some years were skipped but that was okay. We saw the milestones and it didn't feel like you were missing out on anything. The story is well-paced and the plot is well-thought-out.
I was so sad when this story was over. I was so reluctant to leave these characters behind. I'd definitely recommend this book!
September 13, 2023
I picked this up thinking it was going to be an easy “chick lit” sort of book … well I was wrong!
This is a empathic heartfelt story of love and family . All based around a photo taken every year on Mac snd Marie’s wedding anniversary in front if they precious home.
It retells the story of their lives and the background of this behind every photo taken. There is love and loss; anger and forgiveness; sadness and happiness … the ingredients of a normal family life. But you get sucked in to their life and find yourself rooting for them to go on their cruise, for Mac to see puffins; for their children and grandchildren to be happy … you just want to know!
Tears snd smiles were with me all the way.
This is a empathic heartfelt story of love and family . All based around a photo taken every year on Mac snd Marie’s wedding anniversary in front if they precious home.
It retells the story of their lives and the background of this behind every photo taken. There is love and loss; anger and forgiveness; sadness and happiness … the ingredients of a normal family life. But you get sucked in to their life and find yourself rooting for them to go on their cruise, for Mac to see puffins; for their children and grandchildren to be happy … you just want to know!
Tears snd smiles were with me all the way.
August 15, 2024
4/10⭐️
Follow the Mactavish family throughout their lives, told by one of them through their annual family photos.
This was a very linear book. It felt like watching Modern Family without the humor or This is Us without the raw emotion. It was a light read, with a try for a twist in the end that ended up just being life taking its course. A good read to have while doing other stuff, as it doesn’t need a lot of attention.
Follow the Mactavish family throughout their lives, told by one of them through their annual family photos.
This was a very linear book. It felt like watching Modern Family without the humor or This is Us without the raw emotion. It was a light read, with a try for a twist in the end that ended up just being life taking its course. A good read to have while doing other stuff, as it doesn’t need a lot of attention.
September 8, 2025
Started and finished date - 04.09.25 to 07.09.25.
My rating - Three Stars.
This book was okay, but I didn't love it, and I found it bit boring also I think people who like monogamy by Sue Miller or the stuff that never happened by Maddie Dawson may like is book. The cover of book was okay but bit boring. The writing was okay, and the writing was easy to follow also the ending was okay. The atmosphere was okay but bit bland. The paced of plot was well structured and steady paced. The characters was okay but I think they need to flash out bit more.
My rating - Three Stars.
This book was okay, but I didn't love it, and I found it bit boring also I think people who like monogamy by Sue Miller or the stuff that never happened by Maddie Dawson may like is book. The cover of book was okay but bit boring. The writing was okay, and the writing was easy to follow also the ending was okay. The atmosphere was okay but bit bland. The paced of plot was well structured and steady paced. The characters was okay but I think they need to flash out bit more.
December 30, 2022
My first book by this author but it certainly won't be the last. I loved the writing style, watching the characters evolve over time, the family dynamics, the struggles, the happiness, the romance, the pain, the joy and the beauty. All things we go through in the houses we grow up in which have a massive impact on our lives and upbringings
January 22, 2023
Where do I begin, what a book! ‘The House That Made Us’ has to be one of the most incredible moving, emotive and beautiful books that I’ve read in a long time, it will stay will me forever.
At he heart of the story are Mac and Marie who marry and move into their very first home. Mac started a tradition of taking a photograph of them both outside their house every year on their anniversary which tell the story of their life together and absolute undying love for each, their hopes and dreams for the future.
I absolutely loved Mac and Marie, the unconditional love and stability they gave each other and to their extended family and friends literally oozed from the pages. I do have to say their house was definitely not a house it was most certainly a HOME. A home that wrapped itself around them and around those close to them. The love and kindness was embedded into the very fabric of the building.
They always looked ahead to the future, saving what they could to fulfil their distant dreams. Time after time their hopes, plans and dreams abandoned but never forgotten just as they were about to be fulfilled, whenever life through them a curve ball - never feeling bitter when their lives unexpectedly changed direction and followed a different track. I loved that they shared the same thoughts and opinions, each thinking things through independently, coming to a decision and then finding they were aligned when they they shared them with each other, they truly were two of the most selfless people I’ve read about.
I absolutely loved reading their story, spanning fifty years from the 70’s - so many memories brought to life by the anniversary photo’s that became the album of their lives. The story resonating just a little bit more for me, as I was a child growing up in the 70’s and reading Mac and Marie’s story sparked distant memories of how life was back then pre the digital age.
I could say so much more but don’t want to spoil such a special story for others. This was the last book I read of 2022 and I would say if you haven’t already had the pleasure of being a fly on the wall of the most beautiful life story of Mac and Marie you need to clear your day and dive right in you won’t be disappointed. They definitely got it right in life - love, kindness and happiness trumping material gains every time!
At he heart of the story are Mac and Marie who marry and move into their very first home. Mac started a tradition of taking a photograph of them both outside their house every year on their anniversary which tell the story of their life together and absolute undying love for each, their hopes and dreams for the future.
I absolutely loved Mac and Marie, the unconditional love and stability they gave each other and to their extended family and friends literally oozed from the pages. I do have to say their house was definitely not a house it was most certainly a HOME. A home that wrapped itself around them and around those close to them. The love and kindness was embedded into the very fabric of the building.
They always looked ahead to the future, saving what they could to fulfil their distant dreams. Time after time their hopes, plans and dreams abandoned but never forgotten just as they were about to be fulfilled, whenever life through them a curve ball - never feeling bitter when their lives unexpectedly changed direction and followed a different track. I loved that they shared the same thoughts and opinions, each thinking things through independently, coming to a decision and then finding they were aligned when they they shared them with each other, they truly were two of the most selfless people I’ve read about.
I absolutely loved reading their story, spanning fifty years from the 70’s - so many memories brought to life by the anniversary photo’s that became the album of their lives. The story resonating just a little bit more for me, as I was a child growing up in the 70’s and reading Mac and Marie’s story sparked distant memories of how life was back then pre the digital age.
I could say so much more but don’t want to spoil such a special story for others. This was the last book I read of 2022 and I would say if you haven’t already had the pleasure of being a fly on the wall of the most beautiful life story of Mac and Marie you need to clear your day and dive right in you won’t be disappointed. They definitely got it right in life - love, kindness and happiness trumping material gains every time!
October 2, 2023
Loved this book! It gave me goosebumps, made me laugh, made me cry... At times I couldn't help myself and told my sister about it (that's what I do if I need someone to talk to... She doesn't read so she doesn't mind potential spoilers 😂). It took me ages to finish because it's not an easy read. It always made me emotional, it's so raw. But it's such a lovely story!
October 15, 2023
Weaving the narrative around the framework of an anniversary photo was a sweet touch to the storytelling. I appreciated how the story skillfully brought out the nuances of love, illustrating both its peaks and valleys. It underscores the idea that a commitment to "forever" inevitably entails facing challenging moments, but what matters most is how one chooses to navigate and overcome those lows.
January 15, 2023
An original and poignant story that talks about life changes, how we get old and the time passing.
It made me cry and smile, loved the characters and the plot.
It's well written and I enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
It made me cry and smile, loved the characters and the plot.
It's well written and I enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
September 10, 2023
This was a slow start for me and took me quite a few chapters before I realised it was every bit as good as I'd been told to expect.
The characters especially Mac and Marie are incredibly well rounded and thoroughly likeable. Definitely one of my books of the year.
The characters especially Mac and Marie are incredibly well rounded and thoroughly likeable. Definitely one of my books of the year.
December 4, 2022
A beautiful read that was well written with a compelling and heartfelt storyline and well developed characters that I loved and have taken to my heart. I didn't want this book to end.
February 8, 2023
Bought this after seeing such good reviews and it definitely lived up for them! Such a lovely read!
February 11, 2023
Really great book, great characters you can relate to. Funny and sad so good.
February 18, 2023
Aaww this is a lovely story of life, love, and family. I loved reading about the whole family and their ups and downs and plans etc. life isn’t about money but about family and love
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