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I'll Leave You With This
I’ll Leave You With This is a heartbreaking, funny, thought-provoking and honest novel about a brother’s legacy and the tangled bonds of sisterhood.
The O’Shea sisters couldn’t be more different.
Allison, an obstetrician, has always put others before herself and is torn between her job and young family.
Prizewinning film director Bridie hasn’t had work in over a decade, though her actor husband is on the brink of stardom.
Clare, desperate for a baby, is bereft when her wife leaves her after their latest IVF failure.
And Emma, the youngest, has turned to God to fill the aching loneliness in her life.
When their only brother Daniel is killed the four women drift even further apart…
Then, on the third anniversary of Daniel's death, Clare proposes an idea: they should trace the many recipients saved by his donated organs. Perhaps their brother's gift of life can bring them back together again?
‘Heartwarming, uplifting, inspiring . . . a compelling read.’ Graeme Simsion
'A page-turner from the first to the last. Everyone will be reading this fantastic, heart-warming book this summer. This is Kylie Ladd at her very best. Sally Hepworth
The O’Shea sisters couldn’t be more different.
Allison, an obstetrician, has always put others before herself and is torn between her job and young family.
Prizewinning film director Bridie hasn’t had work in over a decade, though her actor husband is on the brink of stardom.
Clare, desperate for a baby, is bereft when her wife leaves her after their latest IVF failure.
And Emma, the youngest, has turned to God to fill the aching loneliness in her life.
When their only brother Daniel is killed the four women drift even further apart…
Then, on the third anniversary of Daniel's death, Clare proposes an idea: they should trace the many recipients saved by his donated organs. Perhaps their brother's gift of life can bring them back together again?
‘Heartwarming, uplifting, inspiring . . . a compelling read.’ Graeme Simsion
'A page-turner from the first to the last. Everyone will be reading this fantastic, heart-warming book this summer. This is Kylie Ladd at her very best. Sally Hepworth
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2023
277 people are currently reading
1649 people want to read
About the author
Kylie Ladd
14 books169 followersKylie Ladd is a novelist and freelance writer. Her essays and articles have appeared in The Age, Griffith Review, O Magazine, The Sydney Morning Herald, Good Medicine, Kill Your Darlings, The Hoopla and MamaMia, among others. Kylie's first novel, After the Fall , was published in Australia, the US and Turkey, while her second, Last Summer, was highly commended in the 2011 Federation of Australian Writers Christina Stead Award for fiction. Her previous books are Naked: Confessions of Adultery and Infidelity and Living with Alzheimer's and Other Dementias. Kylie’s third novel, Into My Arms, has been selected as one of Get Reading’s Fifty Books You Can’t Put Down for 2013. She holds a PhD in neuropsychology, and lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
April 5, 2023
In October 2015 Daniel O’Shea is en route to a lunch meeting when he is caught up in a shooting and is tragically killed. Daniel is the glue that holds his four sisters together and obviously his loss is keenly felt. His sisters could not be more different from each other. The eldest Allison is an obstetrician, caught between her demanding job and family life. She has a tendency to be uptight - according to her sisters! Bridie, reputedly the family bulldozer, whose promising career as a movie director has stalled just as her actor husbands star is in the ascendant. Clare, a Nurse, is desperate to be a mother but several rounds of failed IVF leads to the failure of her marriage to Sophie. Emma is the youngest by quite some margin and is the quiet, thoughtful one who has turned to God to fill the aching void in her life. At the third anniversary dinner of Daniels death, Clare announces she wants to find the recipients of his organs and each sibling reacts very differently. Can this help to heal the obvious growing rift between the sisters? What will the journey of discovery lead to?
Initially I find this family/ character driven novel a bit clunky as it jumps from one point of view to another and with timeline shifts. However, once it gets going and the characters personalities start to shine through I really enjoy it. The characterisation is excellent, none of them are perfect but that’s what makes them feel authentic. Your heart goes out to all in various ways but the youngest Emma, so damaged by school experiences and loss, is my favourite and I suspect she’ll become the glue to fill the Daniel hole. Daniels ex partner Joel is wonderful too but the standout character is a canine! Daniels dachshund, the brilliantly named John Thomas (🤣) is just so funny and brings much needed light relief and humour in his destructive wake. Adorable!
The dynamics are excellent between these siblings as they rub each other up the wrong way or come together in unity with the ups and downs being so acutely observed. The constant changes keep giving surprises and some mellowing. The dialogue between them is also very well done and feels authentic.
This is not a lightweight family driven book by any means. Kylie Ladd includes some very pertinent issues which are thought provoking. Central is organ donation and much of that storyline is inevitably emotional and very moving. Infertility and surrogacy are another theme and the author does a great job in running these two alongside each other without being superficial. I especially love how the title comes about which is very apt.
This is a well written book and one that makes you reflect. This is my first read of this Australian author but I’ll definitely read more.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Hodder and Stoughton for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Initially I find this family/ character driven novel a bit clunky as it jumps from one point of view to another and with timeline shifts. However, once it gets going and the characters personalities start to shine through I really enjoy it. The characterisation is excellent, none of them are perfect but that’s what makes them feel authentic. Your heart goes out to all in various ways but the youngest Emma, so damaged by school experiences and loss, is my favourite and I suspect she’ll become the glue to fill the Daniel hole. Daniels ex partner Joel is wonderful too but the standout character is a canine! Daniels dachshund, the brilliantly named John Thomas (🤣) is just so funny and brings much needed light relief and humour in his destructive wake. Adorable!
The dynamics are excellent between these siblings as they rub each other up the wrong way or come together in unity with the ups and downs being so acutely observed. The constant changes keep giving surprises and some mellowing. The dialogue between them is also very well done and feels authentic.
This is not a lightweight family driven book by any means. Kylie Ladd includes some very pertinent issues which are thought provoking. Central is organ donation and much of that storyline is inevitably emotional and very moving. Infertility and surrogacy are another theme and the author does a great job in running these two alongside each other without being superficial. I especially love how the title comes about which is very apt.
This is a well written book and one that makes you reflect. This is my first read of this Australian author but I’ll definitely read more.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Hodder and Stoughton for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
July 15, 2023
When Daniel O’Shea is tragically killed, his sisters decide to donate his organs and they gather every year to celebrate his life. The four sisters are dissimilar, Allison is the eldest and followed by Bridie, Clare and lastly Emma.
Clare has an idea, she wants to try and contact the donor recipients, this isn’t an easy thing to do, some people want to remain anonymous, it can make them feel guilty and each of the sister's reacts differently.
Allison is an obstetrician, she’s married and has twin sons. She feels like she juggling too many things, leaving no time for herself and her family. Clare is in a relationship with Sophie, it’s just ended due to Clare’s obsession with wanting to have a baby and it’s made her feel like a failure. Bridie is a film director, she had one hit a decade ago and since then her career has stalled. She's married to Tom, he’s an actor and is on the brink of making it big. Emma is the youngest, she’s was bullied at school she found solace and safety in the bible class and at church.
The sisters have drifted apart, due to being busy and both their parents have passed way and Daniel. Maybe finding out who received Daniel's organs might reunite them, they love each other and they need to reconnect.
I received a digital copy of I’ll Leave You With This from Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by Kylie Ladd, she handles the subjects of death, organ donation, miscarriage, infertility and IVF in understanding and tactful way.
The story focuses on relationships, between the sisters, their partners, children and friends. It’s an honest, sympathetic, at times amusing narrative, full of interesting and real characters. My favourites were, Allison, Bridie, Clare, Emma, Jason, Joel and John Thomas. Five stars from me, I’m listed as an organ donor, it’s truly a gift and improves the recipient’s lives in ways you can’t image and you discover this between the pages of this outstanding novel.
Clare has an idea, she wants to try and contact the donor recipients, this isn’t an easy thing to do, some people want to remain anonymous, it can make them feel guilty and each of the sister's reacts differently.
Allison is an obstetrician, she’s married and has twin sons. She feels like she juggling too many things, leaving no time for herself and her family. Clare is in a relationship with Sophie, it’s just ended due to Clare’s obsession with wanting to have a baby and it’s made her feel like a failure. Bridie is a film director, she had one hit a decade ago and since then her career has stalled. She's married to Tom, he’s an actor and is on the brink of making it big. Emma is the youngest, she’s was bullied at school she found solace and safety in the bible class and at church.
The sisters have drifted apart, due to being busy and both their parents have passed way and Daniel. Maybe finding out who received Daniel's organs might reunite them, they love each other and they need to reconnect.
I received a digital copy of I’ll Leave You With This from Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by Kylie Ladd, she handles the subjects of death, organ donation, miscarriage, infertility and IVF in understanding and tactful way.
The story focuses on relationships, between the sisters, their partners, children and friends. It’s an honest, sympathetic, at times amusing narrative, full of interesting and real characters. My favourites were, Allison, Bridie, Clare, Emma, Jason, Joel and John Thomas. Five stars from me, I’m listed as an organ donor, it’s truly a gift and improves the recipient’s lives in ways you can’t image and you discover this between the pages of this outstanding novel.
August 5, 2023
EXCERPT: 'There's something I want to say,' she begins, sweat beading again on her upper lip. Clare raises her serviette to her face and dabs at it, her foundation bleeding onto the starchy cloth.
'Speech!' Joel urges, smiling.
She smiles back weakly. 'Not a speech . . . I've made a decision. Something I want to do, something I hope you'll all join me in.' Bridie's eyes flicker to Allison. They are the matriarchs of the family now. Do you know about this? the glance asks. Allison frowns in reply, already disconcerted.
Clare takes a deep breath, teeters on the edge of the high board, aims herself at the water far below before she can lose her nerve. 'I've been in contact with the New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service - the agency that managed the transplants after Daniel died. I want to find his recipients, make contact with them.'
Nobody says anything. Emma looks at Joel, who looks at his lap. Bridie and Allison are both scowling now, mouths twinned in disapproval.
'Why?' Allison finally asks. 'Why on earth? He's dead, for God's sake. What does it matter?'
ABOUT 'I'LL LEAVE YOU WITH THIS': The O’Shea sisters couldn’t be more different.
Allison, an obstetrician, has always put others before herself and is torn between her job and young family.
Prizewinning film director Bridie hasn’t had work in over a decade, though her actor husband is on the brink of stardom.
Clare, desperate for a baby, is bereft when her wife leaves her after their latest IVF failure.
And Emma, the youngest, has turned to God to fill the aching loneliness in her life.
When their only brother Daniel is killed the four women drift even further apart…
Then, on the third anniversary of Daniel's death, Clare proposes an idea: they should trace the many recipients saved by his donated organs. Perhaps their brother's gift of life can bring them back together again?
MY THOUGHTS: I absolutely loved this read. The characters are a brilliant mix; people we have in our own families, our friends. The family isn't a close one, coming together only for Christmas Day and the anniversary of Daniel's death. The sisters go weeks, months at a time, without speaking. They each have their own busy lives to lead, yet they are also each missing something - Daniel.
The four women all have very different personalities: Allison is an uptight over-achiever; Bridie a bulldozer, she lets nothing stand in the way of what she wants; Clare feels second-rate, that she has never measured up to Allison; and Emma is shy and needy and feels very much ignored by her much older sisters. Daniel was the star who held them all together, the glue of the family. They all revolved around him; all adored him. Then there is John Thomas, Daniel's dachshund, and Joel, Daniel's ex-partner who is still very much a member of the family.
I'll Leave You With This is an outstanding novel revolving around the topics of organ donation, infertility and IVF treatments, miscarriage, death and grieving and sibling relationships. I was consumed by the powerful yet tactful and empathetic writing, by the reality of the characters. I felt like I was a fly on the wall watching this family drama play out in front of me.
I really can't recommend this novel highly enough. The publicity blurb calls this novel 'heartbreaking, funny, thought-provoking and honest'. It is all these things and more.
My favorite quote: Bridie has had everything catered, happily admitting that her favorite kitchen appliance is her credit card.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#IllLeaveYouWithThis #NetGalley.
I: @kylie.ladd @hodderbooks
X: @kylie_ladd @HodderBooks
#australianauthor #australianfiction #contemporaryfiction #familydrama
THE AUTHOR: Kylie Ladd writes contemporary novels that explore the impact of devastating or momentous events in the lives of her characters. As a psychologist, Kylie is fascinated by how relationships and family dynamics are affected by upheaval - an affair, a lost child, an unexpected death.
Kylie is the author of six novels and two works of non-fiction. Her essays and articles have appeared in The Age and Sydney Morning Herald, Griffith Review, Meanjin and Good Medicine, amongst others.
She holds a PhD in neuropsychology, and lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband and two children.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of I'll Leave You With This by Kylie Ladd for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own opinions.
'Speech!' Joel urges, smiling.
She smiles back weakly. 'Not a speech . . . I've made a decision. Something I want to do, something I hope you'll all join me in.' Bridie's eyes flicker to Allison. They are the matriarchs of the family now. Do you know about this? the glance asks. Allison frowns in reply, already disconcerted.
Clare takes a deep breath, teeters on the edge of the high board, aims herself at the water far below before she can lose her nerve. 'I've been in contact with the New South Wales Organ and Tissue Donation Service - the agency that managed the transplants after Daniel died. I want to find his recipients, make contact with them.'
Nobody says anything. Emma looks at Joel, who looks at his lap. Bridie and Allison are both scowling now, mouths twinned in disapproval.
'Why?' Allison finally asks. 'Why on earth? He's dead, for God's sake. What does it matter?'
ABOUT 'I'LL LEAVE YOU WITH THIS': The O’Shea sisters couldn’t be more different.
Allison, an obstetrician, has always put others before herself and is torn between her job and young family.
Prizewinning film director Bridie hasn’t had work in over a decade, though her actor husband is on the brink of stardom.
Clare, desperate for a baby, is bereft when her wife leaves her after their latest IVF failure.
And Emma, the youngest, has turned to God to fill the aching loneliness in her life.
When their only brother Daniel is killed the four women drift even further apart…
Then, on the third anniversary of Daniel's death, Clare proposes an idea: they should trace the many recipients saved by his donated organs. Perhaps their brother's gift of life can bring them back together again?
MY THOUGHTS: I absolutely loved this read. The characters are a brilliant mix; people we have in our own families, our friends. The family isn't a close one, coming together only for Christmas Day and the anniversary of Daniel's death. The sisters go weeks, months at a time, without speaking. They each have their own busy lives to lead, yet they are also each missing something - Daniel.
The four women all have very different personalities: Allison is an uptight over-achiever; Bridie a bulldozer, she lets nothing stand in the way of what she wants; Clare feels second-rate, that she has never measured up to Allison; and Emma is shy and needy and feels very much ignored by her much older sisters. Daniel was the star who held them all together, the glue of the family. They all revolved around him; all adored him. Then there is John Thomas, Daniel's dachshund, and Joel, Daniel's ex-partner who is still very much a member of the family.
I'll Leave You With This is an outstanding novel revolving around the topics of organ donation, infertility and IVF treatments, miscarriage, death and grieving and sibling relationships. I was consumed by the powerful yet tactful and empathetic writing, by the reality of the characters. I felt like I was a fly on the wall watching this family drama play out in front of me.
I really can't recommend this novel highly enough. The publicity blurb calls this novel 'heartbreaking, funny, thought-provoking and honest'. It is all these things and more.
My favorite quote: Bridie has had everything catered, happily admitting that her favorite kitchen appliance is her credit card.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#IllLeaveYouWithThis #NetGalley.
I: @kylie.ladd @hodderbooks
X: @kylie_ladd @HodderBooks
#australianauthor #australianfiction #contemporaryfiction #familydrama
THE AUTHOR: Kylie Ladd writes contemporary novels that explore the impact of devastating or momentous events in the lives of her characters. As a psychologist, Kylie is fascinated by how relationships and family dynamics are affected by upheaval - an affair, a lost child, an unexpected death.
Kylie is the author of six novels and two works of non-fiction. Her essays and articles have appeared in The Age and Sydney Morning Herald, Griffith Review, Meanjin and Good Medicine, amongst others.
She holds a PhD in neuropsychology, and lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband and two children.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of I'll Leave You With This by Kylie Ladd for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own opinions.
January 31, 2023
I truly love a good family story, and Kylie Ladd has nailed it with this beautiful story, it is filled with so many emotions, it is heartfelt, heartwarming and witty as the O’Shea family move on through tragedy and realise what they all mean to each other, this is my first Kylie Ladd story but it won’t be the last.
Allison is an obstetrician at a big Sydney Hospital, married to Jason with twin sons Eliot and Martin, she is always busy at work but loves her family.
Bridie is an award winning director married to actor Tom but she has not directed anything for a while and she too is always busy.
Clare is a nurse, married to Sophie, she wants a bay so badly but is having no success with IVF.
Emma is a musician who plays the cello and has found God in her lonely life.
When they lose their brother Daniel they seem to drift apart even more, but meet up on the anniversary of his death every year, Daniel was an organ donor and on the third anniversary luncheon Clare decides that it would be a great idea to meet up the with recipients that Daniel helped, not everyone is happy about this idea but the wheels are set in motion and soon these sisters are meeting up with people who are alive and well today because of Daniel, will it bring them together or push them further apart?
I loved this story so much, getting to know the sisters and the things they had all gone through made them easy to become friends with, I felt I knew them so well, all so very different as sisters normally are, there is fabulous dialogue throughout and it is just so open and honest, I would highly recommend this story, there are so many other characters who add so much to the story, Joel and John Thomas, I loved them both .A must read.
My thanks to Penguin AU for my copy to read and review.
Allison is an obstetrician at a big Sydney Hospital, married to Jason with twin sons Eliot and Martin, she is always busy at work but loves her family.
Bridie is an award winning director married to actor Tom but she has not directed anything for a while and she too is always busy.
Clare is a nurse, married to Sophie, she wants a bay so badly but is having no success with IVF.
Emma is a musician who plays the cello and has found God in her lonely life.
When they lose their brother Daniel they seem to drift apart even more, but meet up on the anniversary of his death every year, Daniel was an organ donor and on the third anniversary luncheon Clare decides that it would be a great idea to meet up the with recipients that Daniel helped, not everyone is happy about this idea but the wheels are set in motion and soon these sisters are meeting up with people who are alive and well today because of Daniel, will it bring them together or push them further apart?
I loved this story so much, getting to know the sisters and the things they had all gone through made them easy to become friends with, I felt I knew them so well, all so very different as sisters normally are, there is fabulous dialogue throughout and it is just so open and honest, I would highly recommend this story, there are so many other characters who add so much to the story, Joel and John Thomas, I loved them both .A must read.
My thanks to Penguin AU for my copy to read and review.
December 10, 2023
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
4.5 stars
I’ll Leave You with This is a powerful, stimulating and tender tale of complicated family dynamics and the beauty of giving.
💚A very personal and heartwarming fictional story inspired by the sudden loss of the author’s thirty-nine-year-old brother, I’ll Leave You with This carefully examines the ripple effect organ donation has not only on the recipient, but those who love them. Kylie Ladd’s latest immediately struck a very raw and personal note for me, as my own family has been touched by organ donation. I felt that I was in the very capable and skilled hands of Kylie Ladd while reading this entire novel. Organ donation is an extremely sensitive and touchy subject. However, I feel that this novel achieved that tricky balance between emotions and drama with essential knowledge.
💚Sisterhood is at the very nucleus of I’ll Leave You with This. When Daniel is killed in a terrible accident, he leaves his four sisters behind to pick up the pieces. Each O’Shea sister was boldly presented, with obvious contrasting personalities, individual issues, quirks and lifestyles. This is a strong character driven novel, rather than a go, go, go style action plot. So bear this in mind if you appreciate moral and ethical style conflict stories. This is a poised and well written composition that weaves in and out of an array of issues including, grief, tragedy, illness, infertility, relationships and faith.
💚My final word goes to John Thomas, the star of the show for me. A loveable dachshund who is eventually embraced and understood by the characters in the novel. I just adored his presence on the pages of I’ll Leave You with This. Kylie, as a sausage dog Mumma you absolutely nailed it. A beautiful tribute to dear Taco, a fighting spirit of the dachshund world, who I hope is on the road to recovery.
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫4.5 stars
🙏Thank you to @penguinbooksaus for the gifted copy.
4.5 stars
I’ll Leave You with This is a powerful, stimulating and tender tale of complicated family dynamics and the beauty of giving.
💚A very personal and heartwarming fictional story inspired by the sudden loss of the author’s thirty-nine-year-old brother, I’ll Leave You with This carefully examines the ripple effect organ donation has not only on the recipient, but those who love them. Kylie Ladd’s latest immediately struck a very raw and personal note for me, as my own family has been touched by organ donation. I felt that I was in the very capable and skilled hands of Kylie Ladd while reading this entire novel. Organ donation is an extremely sensitive and touchy subject. However, I feel that this novel achieved that tricky balance between emotions and drama with essential knowledge.
💚Sisterhood is at the very nucleus of I’ll Leave You with This. When Daniel is killed in a terrible accident, he leaves his four sisters behind to pick up the pieces. Each O’Shea sister was boldly presented, with obvious contrasting personalities, individual issues, quirks and lifestyles. This is a strong character driven novel, rather than a go, go, go style action plot. So bear this in mind if you appreciate moral and ethical style conflict stories. This is a poised and well written composition that weaves in and out of an array of issues including, grief, tragedy, illness, infertility, relationships and faith.
💚My final word goes to John Thomas, the star of the show for me. A loveable dachshund who is eventually embraced and understood by the characters in the novel. I just adored his presence on the pages of I’ll Leave You with This. Kylie, as a sausage dog Mumma you absolutely nailed it. A beautiful tribute to dear Taco, a fighting spirit of the dachshund world, who I hope is on the road to recovery.
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫4.5 stars
🙏Thank you to @penguinbooksaus for the gifted copy.
March 11, 2023
The O'Shea sisters couldn.t be more different: Allison, an obstetrician, has always put others before herself and is torn between her job and her family.
Prizewinning film director Bridie hasn't worked in over a decade, though her actor husband is on the brink of stardom.
Clare, desperate for a baby, is bereft when her wife leaves her after their latest IVF failure. And Emma, the youngest, has turned to God to fill the aching loneliness in her life.
When only brother Daniel is killed, the four women drift even further apart. Then on the third anniversary of Daniel's death, Clare proposes an idea: they should trace the many recipients saved by his donated organs. Perhaps their brother's gift of life can brin them back together again.
This is a beautifully written story about four sisters lives after their brother passed away and their journey to try and find the people his donated organs had given a second chance. This is quite an emotional read, all of the sisters have their own demons to deal with. The sisters have never been close, Daniel had been the glue that held them all together. The story covers: organ donation, surrogacy, sibling relationships, self-harm, grief and most importantly - learning to let go. There is some humour, and the characters are all different, even though they are all sisters. Searching for the organ donors made me realise even more how important organ donation is. Just make sure you have plenty of tissues handy.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HodderStoughton and the author #KylieLadd for my ARC of #IllLeaveYouWithThis in exchange for an honest review.
Prizewinning film director Bridie hasn't worked in over a decade, though her actor husband is on the brink of stardom.
Clare, desperate for a baby, is bereft when her wife leaves her after their latest IVF failure. And Emma, the youngest, has turned to God to fill the aching loneliness in her life.
When only brother Daniel is killed, the four women drift even further apart. Then on the third anniversary of Daniel's death, Clare proposes an idea: they should trace the many recipients saved by his donated organs. Perhaps their brother's gift of life can brin them back together again.
This is a beautifully written story about four sisters lives after their brother passed away and their journey to try and find the people his donated organs had given a second chance. This is quite an emotional read, all of the sisters have their own demons to deal with. The sisters have never been close, Daniel had been the glue that held them all together. The story covers: organ donation, surrogacy, sibling relationships, self-harm, grief and most importantly - learning to let go. There is some humour, and the characters are all different, even though they are all sisters. Searching for the organ donors made me realise even more how important organ donation is. Just make sure you have plenty of tissues handy.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HodderStoughton and the author #KylieLadd for my ARC of #IllLeaveYouWithThis in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2023
I’ll Leave You With This is the sixth novel by Australian neuropsychologist and author, Kylie Ladd. Three years after Daniel O’Shea died, his four sisters and his ex-boyfriend gather to remember him with their annual lunch at Sake, the restaurant to which he was headed for a business lunch when he was killed by a random shooter in a Sydey street.
Their parents had carefully planned their family, so there was a gap of thirteen years between the eldest and the youngest, perhaps one of the reasons that the sisters are not very close. They are all very different: Allison, crazy smart, good in a crisis , a bit scary, is a mother of twins and Chief Obstetrician and a major teaching hospital; Bridie is creative, driven, ambitious, but her career as a film director having stalled while her husband’s acting career seems to be taking off; Clare, solid, reliable, practical, no-nonsense, is a nurse whose baby lust has caused her wife of just one year to leave her; diminutive (and lonely) Emma, quiet, religious, introverted, has abandoned her career as a cellist for a job as the music director of the Crossfire Church.
“The four of them were like planets in the solar system, occasionally hoving into view of one another, but always, always fixed in their own immovable orbits.”
Clare wonders if it was Daniel who kept them connected. This diversity and disconnect is perhaps the reason for the mixed reaction to Clare’s proposal that they seek out the recipients of Daniel’s organs, to bring them closer to the brother they so tragically lost. And there are quite a lot of recipients: Daniel was a fit and healthy young man who had not only vital organs (heart, kidneys, lungs) in good condition, but also corneas, skin, bone, small bowel and other, perhaps unexpected parts, to donate.
Readers who think they can predict the way the plot will go from there are in for a surprise. Ladd takes the reader through the backstories of the main characters to give an idea of how they came to be at the point in their lives where they are mourning their loss whilst also dealing with their own challenges, be they working too much, or not enough, obsession, or loneliness. Ladd deals with each of these with wisdom and insight.
Her descriptive prose is often delightful, for example, defining the similarities between Bridie and Daniel: “They were exclusive members of a secret society of two, flamingos in a family of wrens.” Her characters, their reactions and behaviour, feel realistic and authentic. Thought-provoking, moving and ultimately uplifting, this is excellent contemporary fiction.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton.
Their parents had carefully planned their family, so there was a gap of thirteen years between the eldest and the youngest, perhaps one of the reasons that the sisters are not very close. They are all very different: Allison, crazy smart, good in a crisis , a bit scary, is a mother of twins and Chief Obstetrician and a major teaching hospital; Bridie is creative, driven, ambitious, but her career as a film director having stalled while her husband’s acting career seems to be taking off; Clare, solid, reliable, practical, no-nonsense, is a nurse whose baby lust has caused her wife of just one year to leave her; diminutive (and lonely) Emma, quiet, religious, introverted, has abandoned her career as a cellist for a job as the music director of the Crossfire Church.
“The four of them were like planets in the solar system, occasionally hoving into view of one another, but always, always fixed in their own immovable orbits.”
Clare wonders if it was Daniel who kept them connected. This diversity and disconnect is perhaps the reason for the mixed reaction to Clare’s proposal that they seek out the recipients of Daniel’s organs, to bring them closer to the brother they so tragically lost. And there are quite a lot of recipients: Daniel was a fit and healthy young man who had not only vital organs (heart, kidneys, lungs) in good condition, but also corneas, skin, bone, small bowel and other, perhaps unexpected parts, to donate.
Readers who think they can predict the way the plot will go from there are in for a surprise. Ladd takes the reader through the backstories of the main characters to give an idea of how they came to be at the point in their lives where they are mourning their loss whilst also dealing with their own challenges, be they working too much, or not enough, obsession, or loneliness. Ladd deals with each of these with wisdom and insight.
Her descriptive prose is often delightful, for example, defining the similarities between Bridie and Daniel: “They were exclusive members of a secret society of two, flamingos in a family of wrens.” Her characters, their reactions and behaviour, feel realistic and authentic. Thought-provoking, moving and ultimately uplifting, this is excellent contemporary fiction.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton.
September 28, 2023
I’ll Leave You With This by Aussie author Kylie Ladd is brilliant in my opinion and it was one that I couldn’t put down. Whilst reading this book you can’t help but feel for the characters as you are taken on an emotional and heartwarming journey. Highly recommended.
April 8, 2025
Brilliant contemporary fiction!
A beautifully written, tender story about O'Shea sisters as they navigate their grief following the death of their beloved brother. Three years after his death, Clare suggests they find the people who his organs helped to save. Will these unexpected connections support their healing, or will it deepen long-held sisterly tensions?
This story had me laughing out loud and weeping at times. It reminded me of a finely layered Jodi Picoult story.
A beautifully written, tender story about O'Shea sisters as they navigate their grief following the death of their beloved brother. Three years after his death, Clare suggests they find the people who his organs helped to save. Will these unexpected connections support their healing, or will it deepen long-held sisterly tensions?
This story had me laughing out loud and weeping at times. It reminded me of a finely layered Jodi Picoult story.
January 26, 2023
‘The four of them were like planets in the solar system, occasionally hoving into view of one another, but always, always fixed in their own immovable orbits.’
Family stories are tricky beasts at the best of times, but Kylie Ladd seems to have a distinct knack for harnessing them into brilliant novels. Her latest, I’ll Leave You With This, is beautifully complex, funny, heartfelt, and filled with insight and compassion – everything I have come to expect from her.
Sisterhood is at the forefront of this story, and I loved the dynamics that existed between Allison, Bridie, Clare and Emma. It wasn’t just distinctive personalities providing barriers between these sisters but their age gap, which was significant from eldest through to youngest. The loss of their brother seemed to make this gap one that was difficult to breach. There were many things each sister didn’t know about the others, from the incidental through to the major. The uncovering of these things throughout the story made for a compelling narrative.
Of the topics covered within this novel, organ donation is at the top of the list, but other important issues are also woven through the characters’ lives. Infertility, self-harm, grief, work-life balance, sexuality, religion, and palliative care within the family, to name the main ones. It’s a loaded novel, but written with a deft hand, so never once are you left feeling like there was too much. Everything, and I mean everything, was well placed and woven into the narrative with precision and care.
It’s no secret that I love Kylie Ladd’s novels, I have done right from the start. But with such talent, who could blame me? Highly recommended, particularly for book clubs, this one is a five-star read. I feel it would make an excellent television series as well.
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
Family stories are tricky beasts at the best of times, but Kylie Ladd seems to have a distinct knack for harnessing them into brilliant novels. Her latest, I’ll Leave You With This, is beautifully complex, funny, heartfelt, and filled with insight and compassion – everything I have come to expect from her.
Sisterhood is at the forefront of this story, and I loved the dynamics that existed between Allison, Bridie, Clare and Emma. It wasn’t just distinctive personalities providing barriers between these sisters but their age gap, which was significant from eldest through to youngest. The loss of their brother seemed to make this gap one that was difficult to breach. There were many things each sister didn’t know about the others, from the incidental through to the major. The uncovering of these things throughout the story made for a compelling narrative.
Of the topics covered within this novel, organ donation is at the top of the list, but other important issues are also woven through the characters’ lives. Infertility, self-harm, grief, work-life balance, sexuality, religion, and palliative care within the family, to name the main ones. It’s a loaded novel, but written with a deft hand, so never once are you left feeling like there was too much. Everything, and I mean everything, was well placed and woven into the narrative with precision and care.
It’s no secret that I love Kylie Ladd’s novels, I have done right from the start. But with such talent, who could blame me? Highly recommended, particularly for book clubs, this one is a five-star read. I feel it would make an excellent television series as well.
Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.
January 21, 2023
Thank you Penguin for sending us a copy to read and review.
This is my first book into the fictional realm of Kylie Ladd, even though it’s her sixth release, and I found that I’m keen to explore her other five stories.
A story that exposes the truth, rivalries, hope, loyalty and secrets between four sisters.
Allison, Bridie, Clare and Emma are the O’Shea sisters.
They have drifted apart after their only brother Daniel was killed.
Each surviving in life with their own choices and issues seperate from each other.
When the third anniversary of Daniel’s death arrives, Clare thinks it would be a great idea to track down the recipients of the organs his body donated.
Will it bring them back together and create a solid bond again?
A very fast paced, compelling family drama that’s raw, real and thought provoking.
Kylie examines the world of sisters, bares the wounds, answers the questions, brings the real and it’s all relatable and relevant.
Something I really loved about this tale was the realism, everything including the dialogue, situations, moments and issues could all happen in reality.
It felt honest, authentic and genuine and it came across in the writing.
It will immediately grab your attention as you are lured into the lives of the sisters.
A book that will appeal to a wide audience.
This is my first book into the fictional realm of Kylie Ladd, even though it’s her sixth release, and I found that I’m keen to explore her other five stories.
A story that exposes the truth, rivalries, hope, loyalty and secrets between four sisters.
Allison, Bridie, Clare and Emma are the O’Shea sisters.
They have drifted apart after their only brother Daniel was killed.
Each surviving in life with their own choices and issues seperate from each other.
When the third anniversary of Daniel’s death arrives, Clare thinks it would be a great idea to track down the recipients of the organs his body donated.
Will it bring them back together and create a solid bond again?
A very fast paced, compelling family drama that’s raw, real and thought provoking.
Kylie examines the world of sisters, bares the wounds, answers the questions, brings the real and it’s all relatable and relevant.
Something I really loved about this tale was the realism, everything including the dialogue, situations, moments and issues could all happen in reality.
It felt honest, authentic and genuine and it came across in the writing.
It will immediately grab your attention as you are lured into the lives of the sisters.
A book that will appeal to a wide audience.
May 9, 2023
I’ll Leave You Like This is a moving and thought provoking novel from Kylie Ladd exploring grief, family, and the complex bonds of sisterhood.
Over lunch on the third anniversary of Daniel O’Shea’s shocking and untimely death, Clare announces to her sisters that she plans to seek out the recipients of their brother’s donated organs. For Clare, for whom loss has become all too common, it’s a way to affirm Daniel’s life, and perhaps her own. Eldest sister Allison thinks Clare’s mission is morbid and is impatient with the whole idea, as she is with most things. Bridie is indifferent until, ‘in between’ film projects, she see’s its potential as an award winning documentary. Emma, the youngest of the siblings, is happy to offer Clare her support, but only Joel, Daniel’s former lover, is truly enthusiastic about the project.
A novel driven by character and theme rather than plot, I’ll Leave You Like This unfolds from the alternating perspectives of each of the four sisters.
I enjoyed getting to know the sisters, who are well rounded and relatable characters. Ladd has created distinct personalities for each woman, who have quite disparate temperaments and lifestyles. Each is affected differently by their grief not only related Daniel’s death, but also the loss of their parents in quick succession some years before. The sisters also struggle with their own issues, among them infertility, self harm, stress, and loss of confidence, and feel unable to turn to each other for support. Their dynamic feels authentic, and is rendered with insight into the sometimes complicated bonds of siblings.
As a registered donor myself, I personally strongly feel that organ donation is a wonderful legacy. Clare’s mission allows Ladd to explore some interesting questions not only about what it means to the recipients, but also to the relatives of the donor. I certainly empathise with Clare’s desire to connect with the people who carry a part of her brother, but I also understand why recipients may be uncomfortable with any contact.
Written with warmth, wit and compassion, I’ll Leave You With This is an emotive family drama.
Over lunch on the third anniversary of Daniel O’Shea’s shocking and untimely death, Clare announces to her sisters that she plans to seek out the recipients of their brother’s donated organs. For Clare, for whom loss has become all too common, it’s a way to affirm Daniel’s life, and perhaps her own. Eldest sister Allison thinks Clare’s mission is morbid and is impatient with the whole idea, as she is with most things. Bridie is indifferent until, ‘in between’ film projects, she see’s its potential as an award winning documentary. Emma, the youngest of the siblings, is happy to offer Clare her support, but only Joel, Daniel’s former lover, is truly enthusiastic about the project.
A novel driven by character and theme rather than plot, I’ll Leave You Like This unfolds from the alternating perspectives of each of the four sisters.
I enjoyed getting to know the sisters, who are well rounded and relatable characters. Ladd has created distinct personalities for each woman, who have quite disparate temperaments and lifestyles. Each is affected differently by their grief not only related Daniel’s death, but also the loss of their parents in quick succession some years before. The sisters also struggle with their own issues, among them infertility, self harm, stress, and loss of confidence, and feel unable to turn to each other for support. Their dynamic feels authentic, and is rendered with insight into the sometimes complicated bonds of siblings.
As a registered donor myself, I personally strongly feel that organ donation is a wonderful legacy. Clare’s mission allows Ladd to explore some interesting questions not only about what it means to the recipients, but also to the relatives of the donor. I certainly empathise with Clare’s desire to connect with the people who carry a part of her brother, but I also understand why recipients may be uncomfortable with any contact.
Written with warmth, wit and compassion, I’ll Leave You With This is an emotive family drama.
February 1, 2023
What a great set of characters. The sisters all have different personalities and careers. The setting takes place in Australia. It is a believable storyline and Kylie makes you feel like you are a part of the family. I loved the dog mention who is a connection between the lost brother and his sisters and they all want him to be a part of the family so they can hang onto their brothers memory. It discusses some sensitive subjects such as surrogacy and organ donation. It is told by all the sisters with a past (1998) and present (2020) timeline.
March 27, 2023
I struggled with this rating because it was a lovely storyline but the dismissive nature of self harm frustrated me and the way it was all tied up in a nice bow for the last chapter was frustrating.
April 30, 2023
4 female siblings living in Sydney have no idea what's going on in each others' lives, and none of them are close to each other. Then, 1 of them decides to track down the recipients of their Brothers organ donations, who died 3 years prior. I think this book could've been so much more than it was. I don't think there was a great deal of character building, even though each Sister narrates a chapter. I didn't feel drawn to anyone - the characters were a bit flat with no warmth. There was ample opportunity to make this book tender & poignant, but sadly, it wasn't. The ending made me want to throw the book across the room. 2.5* really
March 29, 2023
Allison, Bridie, Clare and Emma are the O'Shae sisters. They've never been particularly close, not even after the deaths of their parents. Brother Daniel, the second youngest had always been the glue that stuck them together.
In 2015, Daniel was shot in an incident and sadly passed away. This was the shattering point that all remaining siblings stopped communicating with each other, apart from Christmas and the anniversary of their beloved brother's death.
It's on the third anniversary where the idea of tracking down the recipients of Daniel's organs is first broached. Needless to say, with various differences of opinions, this doesn't go down too well. Still, middle child Clare is adamant in following through. As she starts to meet the recipients one by one, her sisters start to acknowledge that Daniel's gift isn't just for those ones he saved... But for them as well.
The grieving process is always unique, and that's shown in spades amongst the surviving characters. Emma is the one I thought suffered the most- when you read her story in full, you'll understand why.
I'll Leave You With This was such a warm and poignant family drama that promotes organ donation, and the importance of talking to your family about any decision. Thankyou Kylie Ladd for writing this incredible novel.
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5
In 2015, Daniel was shot in an incident and sadly passed away. This was the shattering point that all remaining siblings stopped communicating with each other, apart from Christmas and the anniversary of their beloved brother's death.
It's on the third anniversary where the idea of tracking down the recipients of Daniel's organs is first broached. Needless to say, with various differences of opinions, this doesn't go down too well. Still, middle child Clare is adamant in following through. As she starts to meet the recipients one by one, her sisters start to acknowledge that Daniel's gift isn't just for those ones he saved... But for them as well.
The grieving process is always unique, and that's shown in spades amongst the surviving characters. Emma is the one I thought suffered the most- when you read her story in full, you'll understand why.
I'll Leave You With This was such a warm and poignant family drama that promotes organ donation, and the importance of talking to your family about any decision. Thankyou Kylie Ladd for writing this incredible novel.
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5
April 13, 2023
3.5 stars for me. Was an abrupt ending, felt like there should have been an epilogue.
April 18, 2023
I wanted to like this book, but it was just so, so miserable. The characters were all awful to each other and just when you think it might start to improve… more misery. Not for me.
December 27, 2024
I absolutely loved this book, made me cry multiple times, made me think about relationships more and how different people see different situations, and most importantly shone a light on an extremely important subject. Up there in my favourite books of the year!
March 30, 2023
This was exactly the novel I wanted to read. I absolutely loved it. It’s such a lovely, tender, genuinely funny, heartwarming family story. Daniel has been killed and three years on and his sisters are still feeling the loss is the starting point..a beautiful exploration of organ donation ensues, but it’s so much more than that; there is a plethora of issues raised so deftly through these pages; from the career/ motherhood balance to coercive control I’m going to call it..this is all the reasons why I read commercial fiction. I loved it all so much.
May 2, 2024
This was a good storyline, but sadly the pace was off for me. I thought it would focus more on the recipients than on the sisters.
I felt the ending was rather abrupt like suddenly the author wanted to tie things up in a pretty bow.
I felt the ending was rather abrupt like suddenly the author wanted to tie things up in a pretty bow.
April 22, 2023
3.5⭐️
I found most of the characters shallow and self centred, but enjoyed the idea of finding Daniel’s recipients.
Did not enjoy how the self harm and surrogacy was incorporated and not followed up, the mental health impact of either of those would take it’s toll and it just felt like it was swept under the carpet to get on with the story.
I wish the author had done an epilogue like ‘12 months later’ it all ended rather abruptly with a few loose ends left hanging….
I found most of the characters shallow and self centred, but enjoyed the idea of finding Daniel’s recipients.
Did not enjoy how the self harm and surrogacy was incorporated and not followed up, the mental health impact of either of those would take it’s toll and it just felt like it was swept under the carpet to get on with the story.
I wish the author had done an epilogue like ‘12 months later’ it all ended rather abruptly with a few loose ends left hanging….
June 25, 2023
I’ll Leave You With This is a tender and moving book, telling the story of grief and loss, seen through the eyes of four very different sisters.
Daniel, the only brother, and the fourth child of five, dies tragically and very unexpectedly. This family loss could, should, have united the remaining siblings; sadly, the lines of division which were drawn before their parents’ deaths, deepen and strengthen.
The narration switches between each of the sisters, to expand their own stories, and to see their own unique perspective. Mutual support and understanding of each other’s lives, and challenges, is absent. Each of the sisters are struggling within their own lives. Feeling that they are quietly drowning, without anyone to throw them a life belt, or even a shoulder to help ease the burden. Each sister assumes the other’s lives are golden and easy, as so many of us assume of others.
Kylie Ladd has written an emotive, but not overly sentimental book. Sibling rivalries, and simmering family tensions, cut through any possibility of the story becoming mawkish. I found the characterisation to be excellent. Each are distinct, fully formed and imperfect, they feel very real. There is no margin for confusion between the cast. The sibling rivalries, family dynamic and tension feels authentic. The order of birth is a strong theme, with each sister assuming a role, a personality, based on their own placement. As ever, the addition of a 4 footed character, is a bonus. The marvellously named John Thomas, is a joy, a bringer of smiles.
The book is really well written, the pages flow. It is so easy to lose time within this story. I found the book to be thought provoking, honest and tender. There are many weighty issues covered, so prevalent in modern society. But I feel I should mention a trigger warning for organ donation, as it is an ongoing, prominent theme in the book.
I’ll Leave You With This is my first read from Kylie Ladd, but it won’t be my last. It’s definitely 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
Daniel, the only brother, and the fourth child of five, dies tragically and very unexpectedly. This family loss could, should, have united the remaining siblings; sadly, the lines of division which were drawn before their parents’ deaths, deepen and strengthen.
The narration switches between each of the sisters, to expand their own stories, and to see their own unique perspective. Mutual support and understanding of each other’s lives, and challenges, is absent. Each of the sisters are struggling within their own lives. Feeling that they are quietly drowning, without anyone to throw them a life belt, or even a shoulder to help ease the burden. Each sister assumes the other’s lives are golden and easy, as so many of us assume of others.
Kylie Ladd has written an emotive, but not overly sentimental book. Sibling rivalries, and simmering family tensions, cut through any possibility of the story becoming mawkish. I found the characterisation to be excellent. Each are distinct, fully formed and imperfect, they feel very real. There is no margin for confusion between the cast. The sibling rivalries, family dynamic and tension feels authentic. The order of birth is a strong theme, with each sister assuming a role, a personality, based on their own placement. As ever, the addition of a 4 footed character, is a bonus. The marvellously named John Thomas, is a joy, a bringer of smiles.
The book is really well written, the pages flow. It is so easy to lose time within this story. I found the book to be thought provoking, honest and tender. There are many weighty issues covered, so prevalent in modern society. But I feel I should mention a trigger warning for organ donation, as it is an ongoing, prominent theme in the book.
I’ll Leave You With This is my first read from Kylie Ladd, but it won’t be my last. It’s definitely 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
April 4, 2024
I stumbled upon this book by an Australian author. It was a very pleasant find. It was about a family of four girls and one boy. The son dies early on, so no spoiler. The sisters are all talented, a doctor who is over worked and constantly stressed, a nurse who desperately wants a child, a filmmaker who is very self absorbed and the youngest, a musician who feels she never fits in. The girls are not very close. The son, Daniel, donated his organs. One of his siblings decides she would like to know who received his organs. Some were for it and some against. But I enjoyed how the author took this rather unusual subject and wove it into a very interesting read.
September 16, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ Such a beautiful book and unique topic that is rarely spoken about. I actually wish there was a sequel because I’ve found myself thinking about what happens next with all the characters. I wish the mental health problems hinted within the book were elaborated on but I understand why they weren’t because it would have taken away from the central story and would have exposed the author to backlash and criticism if she did not discuss it well (which is tricky to do with a sub character)
January 24, 2023
I'll Leave You With This by Kylie Ladd is the second book I've read by the Melbourne-based author and I very much enjoyed 2017's The Way Back. Ladd brings her experience and expertise as a psychologist in the health system to the table when writing. Here she's talking about organ donation and legacies of the very tangible kind as well as those less-so.
I sometimes struggle reading books about organ donation as it's something my family has first-hand experience with, as my father was the recipient of a heart transplant... aged 61 in 2000. I certainly know how someone else's* generosity benefitted my family - giving my father 11 more years. But am also aware of some of the burden it brings. The guilt, gratitude and fear that can accompany it. And of course I can only imagine the bittersweet impact it has on donors' families. Seeing 'part' of their loved ones' live on in others.
Interestingly this is much less about organ donation than it is about family relationships. Tracking down the recipients of Daniel's organs serves as a catalyst for the sisters to be confronted by their own various issues, and their relationships with each other. It's a heartwarming read however, after such a sad opening.
I suspect it'd be a good book club read as readers might see elements of themselves in the sisters and relate to some of the challenges they're facing in their very different lives.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
I sometimes struggle reading books about organ donation as it's something my family has first-hand experience with, as my father was the recipient of a heart transplant... aged 61 in 2000. I certainly know how someone else's* generosity benefitted my family - giving my father 11 more years. But am also aware of some of the burden it brings. The guilt, gratitude and fear that can accompany it. And of course I can only imagine the bittersweet impact it has on donors' families. Seeing 'part' of their loved ones' live on in others.
Interestingly this is much less about organ donation than it is about family relationships. Tracking down the recipients of Daniel's organs serves as a catalyst for the sisters to be confronted by their own various issues, and their relationships with each other. It's a heartwarming read however, after such a sad opening.
I suspect it'd be a good book club read as readers might see elements of themselves in the sisters and relate to some of the challenges they're facing in their very different lives.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
February 7, 2024
Daniel O’Shea is making his way to a lunch meeting when he finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, becoming the victim in a shooting.
Each year on the anniversary of his death his four sisters meet for lunch at the restaurant that he had been heading to on that fatal day. At the third anniversary lunch, Clare, one of the sisters, announces that she wants to find the recipients of Daniel’s organs but the other sisters have very mixed reactions to the suggestion.
An interesting journey unfolds as some recipients agree to meet with the sisters and reveal their story and feelings and especially their gratitude to Daniel. A well written novel that deals with an extremely sensitive subject.
Each year on the anniversary of his death his four sisters meet for lunch at the restaurant that he had been heading to on that fatal day. At the third anniversary lunch, Clare, one of the sisters, announces that she wants to find the recipients of Daniel’s organs but the other sisters have very mixed reactions to the suggestion.
An interesting journey unfolds as some recipients agree to meet with the sisters and reveal their story and feelings and especially their gratitude to Daniel. A well written novel that deals with an extremely sensitive subject.
May 8, 2023
This is a book about family, love & sacrifices. It navigates sibling rivalry and traces the similarities and vast differences between four sisters, following the death of their only brother and subsequent donation of his organs. I was totally engrossed in the story; it’s a wonderful read.
February 17, 2023
I received a free copy of, I'll Leave You With This, by Kylie Ladd, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Daniel's sisters are heartbroken over his death, they decide to locate the people his organs were donated to. Daniel's sisters are Allison, Bridie, Clare, and, Emma are all different, and all going through their own issues, when they decide to try and contact Daniel's organ matches, though not everyone is onboard with it. This books gives you all the feels, it was an emotional read for me, but a good one.
March 26, 2025
I really loved this heartwarming, insightful and thought provoking book. The family dynamic was perfectly constructed, each sister so very different and all dealing with their own issues: grief, infertility, identity, stress, self harm and lack of confidence. It is beautifully written, ensuring you become emotionally invested in each of their lives and wanting each of them to find happiness.
The topic of organ donation was treated sensitively and respectfully. It also really fascinated me as I didn’t realise that so many organs and tissue could be donated; not only the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver and pancreas, but also skin, ligaments, tendons, even a hand! How amazing and what an utterly wonderful gift you are leaving for others.
Whilst there are some heavy themes in the book these are offset with some humorous moments too. I particularly loved John Thomas, the little daschund, that made me laugh. Joel was also a nice character adding balance and warmth.
A wonderful read! I’m very excited to read Kylie’s latest novel, The Mix Up, next!
4.8 ⭐️’s
The topic of organ donation was treated sensitively and respectfully. It also really fascinated me as I didn’t realise that so many organs and tissue could be donated; not only the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver and pancreas, but also skin, ligaments, tendons, even a hand! How amazing and what an utterly wonderful gift you are leaving for others.
Whilst there are some heavy themes in the book these are offset with some humorous moments too. I particularly loved John Thomas, the little daschund, that made me laugh. Joel was also a nice character adding balance and warmth.
A wonderful read! I’m very excited to read Kylie’s latest novel, The Mix Up, next!
4.8 ⭐️’s
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