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This Perfect World
Laura Hamley is the woman who has everything - a loving and successful husband, two children, an expensive home and a set of fortunate friends. But Laura's perfect world is suddenly threatened when she receives an unwelcome phone call from Mrs Partridge, mother of Heddy - the girl Laura and her friends bullied mercilessly at school.
298 pages, Hardcover
First published March 5, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
December 10, 2022
She was once a bully, but now lives in a 'perfect world' in middle class suburbia spending most of her energy on her family whilst "keeping up with the Jones's". The bullied girl's life turned out pretty sour, she's now in an institution, and her son is being looked after by his gran. When these two women, former bully and former victim's paths cross, the past, present and future are all changed forever. Great read. 8 out of 12, Four Star read :)
2014 read
2014 read
May 20, 2021
"Most people’s lives are never quite what they seem!"
This book worried me, before I even opened the first page, as having been bullied many times during my youth and even beyond, I knew it was not going to be a comfortable read. As it was, I found myself examining my own behaviour and asking the question, have I ever been the perpetrator of bullying, rather than the victim? The answers were not always the ones I wanted to hear and were certainly not a palatable thought.
The characters, none of whom were particularly likeable, are well formed, complex and focused, standing up well to close inspection, in this emotionally draining story.
The central group of characters, in Laura's high flying world, operate a filtering system for would be members, both for themselves and their children, excluding those who are 'not the right sort'. Behaviour which they see as totally acceptable, only serves to make them appear shallow and insubstantial and is to me, a reflection of their intrinsic values, which are self-centred, egocentric and selfish, existing only to jostle for position as top dog within the group. This group of course, includes Laura, for whom this behaviour is only an extension of her childhood days, although she just doesn't seem to comprehend that bullying comes in many different guises and her participation in this selection exercise is only an extension to the physical and psychological bullying of her youth.
The long term consequences of cruelty, to both the victim and the perpetrator, only start to become apparent to Laura, when her nemesis from childhood days, Heddy, reappears in her life in dramatic and compelling style, making you almost afraid to keep reading, but knowing that Laura has to confront her actions head-on, as she moves towards a form of redemption.
In Heddy, Suzanne has crafted a complex and sad character, who spent her youth trying to emulate and befriend Laura, receiving only ridicule and hurt in return. Even now, when she has been thrust back into the path of her torturer, she is crying out in vain to gain acceptance for who and what she is, but is unable to overcome the self-loathing that has been instilled in her by the treatment she received so long ago, at Laura's hand.
Heddy's mother, Mrs. Partridge plays mind games of her own with Laura, as she attempts to force the two women together, into the friendship she thinks they should have. Switching subtley between role of concerned mother who wants her daughter to have friends and a social life, to becoming Laura's accuser and voice of her conscience as she lays the blame firmly at Laura's door, for Heddy's current plight. Suzanne has done an excellent job with this 'Jekyll and Hyde' character, on the surface meek and desperate, whilst in truth being creepily manipulative.
There are powerful and vivid observational scenes, as the cracks in Laura's world become chasms, with the consequences of her actions being dramatic and permanent. The relationship with her husband deteriorates drastically, when Laura strips away the veneer of their marriage, to expose his true feelings, where status and appearances are everything he needs to climb higher up the social ladder, at the expense of a lasting and loving relationship with his wife and children.
Laura harks back to childhood days and begins to examine her relationship with her parents, realising that all is, and never was, quite what it seems. She rushes in to confront them, unaware that her world is about to come crashing down around her again, when the true extent of their deception is revealed, leaving her broken, ashamed, racked with guilt, and most importantly, for the first time ever .... Alone and unwanted!!!
This is a compelling and beguiling tale, intertwining past and present, but with the basic premise that hurt engenders hurt, becoming an ever-increasing vicious circle, that is only to be broken in a dramatic and life changing way.
It also closely examines guilt and the fronts we put up in life to fit in and to protect ourselves.
This is one of those books which would be ideal for a book club debate and discussion, as there are so many facets to the story line and characters, which can be interpreted in a myriad of different ways by the individual reader.
This book worried me, before I even opened the first page, as having been bullied many times during my youth and even beyond, I knew it was not going to be a comfortable read. As it was, I found myself examining my own behaviour and asking the question, have I ever been the perpetrator of bullying, rather than the victim? The answers were not always the ones I wanted to hear and were certainly not a palatable thought.
The characters, none of whom were particularly likeable, are well formed, complex and focused, standing up well to close inspection, in this emotionally draining story.
The central group of characters, in Laura's high flying world, operate a filtering system for would be members, both for themselves and their children, excluding those who are 'not the right sort'. Behaviour which they see as totally acceptable, only serves to make them appear shallow and insubstantial and is to me, a reflection of their intrinsic values, which are self-centred, egocentric and selfish, existing only to jostle for position as top dog within the group. This group of course, includes Laura, for whom this behaviour is only an extension of her childhood days, although she just doesn't seem to comprehend that bullying comes in many different guises and her participation in this selection exercise is only an extension to the physical and psychological bullying of her youth.
The long term consequences of cruelty, to both the victim and the perpetrator, only start to become apparent to Laura, when her nemesis from childhood days, Heddy, reappears in her life in dramatic and compelling style, making you almost afraid to keep reading, but knowing that Laura has to confront her actions head-on, as she moves towards a form of redemption.
In Heddy, Suzanne has crafted a complex and sad character, who spent her youth trying to emulate and befriend Laura, receiving only ridicule and hurt in return. Even now, when she has been thrust back into the path of her torturer, she is crying out in vain to gain acceptance for who and what she is, but is unable to overcome the self-loathing that has been instilled in her by the treatment she received so long ago, at Laura's hand.
Heddy's mother, Mrs. Partridge plays mind games of her own with Laura, as she attempts to force the two women together, into the friendship she thinks they should have. Switching subtley between role of concerned mother who wants her daughter to have friends and a social life, to becoming Laura's accuser and voice of her conscience as she lays the blame firmly at Laura's door, for Heddy's current plight. Suzanne has done an excellent job with this 'Jekyll and Hyde' character, on the surface meek and desperate, whilst in truth being creepily manipulative.
There are powerful and vivid observational scenes, as the cracks in Laura's world become chasms, with the consequences of her actions being dramatic and permanent. The relationship with her husband deteriorates drastically, when Laura strips away the veneer of their marriage, to expose his true feelings, where status and appearances are everything he needs to climb higher up the social ladder, at the expense of a lasting and loving relationship with his wife and children.
Laura harks back to childhood days and begins to examine her relationship with her parents, realising that all is, and never was, quite what it seems. She rushes in to confront them, unaware that her world is about to come crashing down around her again, when the true extent of their deception is revealed, leaving her broken, ashamed, racked with guilt, and most importantly, for the first time ever .... Alone and unwanted!!!
This is a compelling and beguiling tale, intertwining past and present, but with the basic premise that hurt engenders hurt, becoming an ever-increasing vicious circle, that is only to be broken in a dramatic and life changing way.
It also closely examines guilt and the fronts we put up in life to fit in and to protect ourselves.
This is one of those books which would be ideal for a book club debate and discussion, as there are so many facets to the story line and characters, which can be interpreted in a myriad of different ways by the individual reader.
January 25, 2019
I really enjoyed this book a lot and am eager to read more from this author I have just discovered. This is a fantastic contemporary women's fiction novel that tackles some uncomfortable themes exceptionally well.
Laura has a perfect life, or so it seems. The big house, successful husband, lovely children and the "right" group of friends. But Laura hides away a part of herself, from her past that she dare not share with her circle of perfect friends. What would they think!
Heddy is in a mental hospital. Disturbed. Depressed and damaged.
The book explores the childhood connection between these two women but most importantly what happens when their lives cross paths again and Laura's perfect bubble is starting to crack open.
Laura is not an easy character to like but I did by the end of the book. She's damaged and flawed as are many of the characters. The pace is strong and steady and I was eager to read this when I could.
Tackling bullying, mental health issues, the rich/poor class divide and true friendship vs superficial friendships this book has a lot to offer as the story is told from both Laura's childhood days and the here and now.
The weight of guilt is a heavy thing indeed.
This was a perfect read for me as a break from a lot of the darker fiction I read. It's well-written and I loved being immersed in the story. I'm keen to read more from this author. 4 well earned stars!
Laura has a perfect life, or so it seems. The big house, successful husband, lovely children and the "right" group of friends. But Laura hides away a part of herself, from her past that she dare not share with her circle of perfect friends. What would they think!
Heddy is in a mental hospital. Disturbed. Depressed and damaged.
The book explores the childhood connection between these two women but most importantly what happens when their lives cross paths again and Laura's perfect bubble is starting to crack open.
Laura is not an easy character to like but I did by the end of the book. She's damaged and flawed as are many of the characters. The pace is strong and steady and I was eager to read this when I could.
Tackling bullying, mental health issues, the rich/poor class divide and true friendship vs superficial friendships this book has a lot to offer as the story is told from both Laura's childhood days and the here and now.
The weight of guilt is a heavy thing indeed.
This was a perfect read for me as a break from a lot of the darker fiction I read. It's well-written and I loved being immersed in the story. I'm keen to read more from this author. 4 well earned stars!
December 29, 2015
A truly uncomfortable look at childhood bullying and the ripple effects into adulthood.
Thought provoking, sad and gripping.
Thought provoking, sad and gripping.
March 23, 2010
At the age of thirty-six, Laura Hamley lives the life of a stereotypical ‘yummy mummy’ — married to a successful lawyer, attractive children, yoga classes, paninis and air-kissing and dinner parties with friends. She has attained an aspirational dream of the times, but a phone call threatens to dredge up her past. The caller is Violet Partridge, whose daughter, Heddy, went to school with Laura. Heddy has been placed in a psychiatric institution, and Violet wants to get her released; perhaps Laura, being married to a lawyer, could help? There’s a very good reason, however, why Laura doesn’t want to get involved: she hated — and bullied — Heddy at school; but, try as she might, Laura can’t seem to extricate herself from the situation.
This Perfect World (Suzanne Bugler’s first adult novel, following two YA books) is a sharp character study. Bugler paints Laura as someone who’s only too aware of the artificiality of the world in which she lives (‘Do any of [her friends:] have a skeleton rattling around in their cupboard? [...:] We meet, we chat, we think that we are the dearest of friends, but we all keep our cupboard doors firmly shut’ [41:]), but clings on to it regardless, for fear of where she might be otherwise — the world she came from, as exemplified by Heddy and Violet Partridge.
I think Bugler spells out Laura’s view of her current life rather too much — it becomes clear enough in quite subtle ways, and we don’t really need (for example) Laura to reflect ruefully on her vow never to become like The Stepford Wives, because we’ve already understood the point. This is a collective problem, however; individually, Bugler’s observations are incisive and striking.
The author also establishes some effective parallels within her narrative. As far as Laura is concerned, Heddy Partridge is a blank screen on which to project her memories; she remembers what she did to her, but has never thought about Heddy as a person in her own right — what matters is that Heddy was, and is, the polar opposite of Laura. So, when Laura learns from Violet that Heddy has been cutting herself — like Laura did as a girl (because that’s what her friends did) — she has to consider the uncomfortable possibility that she’s closer to Heddy than she thought.
Bugler also skilfully portrays Laura’s adult social world — with its social conventions, and boundaries of speech and action that you don’t cross — as being every bit as mired in politics and snap judgements as was the playground. Laura’s discontent with her life bubbles under throughout, eventually bubbling over — and the result is a fine novel that stays in the mind afterwards.
This Perfect World (Suzanne Bugler’s first adult novel, following two YA books) is a sharp character study. Bugler paints Laura as someone who’s only too aware of the artificiality of the world in which she lives (‘Do any of [her friends:] have a skeleton rattling around in their cupboard? [...:] We meet, we chat, we think that we are the dearest of friends, but we all keep our cupboard doors firmly shut’ [41:]), but clings on to it regardless, for fear of where she might be otherwise — the world she came from, as exemplified by Heddy and Violet Partridge.
I think Bugler spells out Laura’s view of her current life rather too much — it becomes clear enough in quite subtle ways, and we don’t really need (for example) Laura to reflect ruefully on her vow never to become like The Stepford Wives, because we’ve already understood the point. This is a collective problem, however; individually, Bugler’s observations are incisive and striking.
The author also establishes some effective parallels within her narrative. As far as Laura is concerned, Heddy Partridge is a blank screen on which to project her memories; she remembers what she did to her, but has never thought about Heddy as a person in her own right — what matters is that Heddy was, and is, the polar opposite of Laura. So, when Laura learns from Violet that Heddy has been cutting herself — like Laura did as a girl (because that’s what her friends did) — she has to consider the uncomfortable possibility that she’s closer to Heddy than she thought.
Bugler also skilfully portrays Laura’s adult social world — with its social conventions, and boundaries of speech and action that you don’t cross — as being every bit as mired in politics and snap judgements as was the playground. Laura’s discontent with her life bubbles under throughout, eventually bubbling over — and the result is a fine novel that stays in the mind afterwards.
August 11, 2013
What a thought-provoking read!
This book is well written and very engaging.
Despite not liking the protaganist Laura at the start of the book it was a compelling read. The stories of life in the playground were uncomfortably realistic as were those of the "school mums." I am sure we all know or have known people like these.
The book is really about the consequences of our actions, Laura has to atone for her actions as a child and in the process quesitons her current life.
This is not an easy book to read but I was engrossed and wanted to find out why Laura's parents were so keen for the girls to be friends.
Looking forward to the next book by Suzanne Bugler
This book is well written and very engaging.
Despite not liking the protaganist Laura at the start of the book it was a compelling read. The stories of life in the playground were uncomfortably realistic as were those of the "school mums." I am sure we all know or have known people like these.
The book is really about the consequences of our actions, Laura has to atone for her actions as a child and in the process quesitons her current life.
This is not an easy book to read but I was engrossed and wanted to find out why Laura's parents were so keen for the girls to be friends.
Looking forward to the next book by Suzanne Bugler
December 31, 2021
2 ⭐ = Below Average.
This started off as a three stars but slipped to two as I progressed. Mainly due to slow progression.
A very unusual concept and one I have not read about before.
Decently written but I just found it so very depressing and cannot say that I enjoyed it.
This started off as a three stars but slipped to two as I progressed. Mainly due to slow progression.
A very unusual concept and one I have not read about before.
Decently written but I just found it so very depressing and cannot say that I enjoyed it.
March 30, 2014
I can't believe I persevered through all the main character's drivel to come to the 'twist' in the tale of death possibly due to asbestos. A chap that smoked heavily! Oh wow, won't be taking any recommendations for similar novels in future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2010
This Perfect World is a spellbinding read, that draws the reader in from page one. Well written and a fairly quick read but also at times, a very difficult read.
Narrated by Laura, a woman who lives the seemingly perfect life - with the perfect children, husband, house and circle of friends. Her friends are women who are all married to rich men, women who spend their time talking hair, shoes, lunch and judging each other by what they have or do not have. A totally superficial life based on wealth, appearance and greed.
Laura gets a blast from the past when she receives a call from Mrs Partridge. Laura bullied the woman's daughter - Heddy. Bullied her so badly that it is clear that Heddy's life has been formed by her childhood experiences. Heddy is in a psychiatric ward and her Mother wants Laura's help to get her home.
As Laura reflects on her past and the awful things that she did to Heddy, it's clear that underneath the glam exterior she too is a scarred and somewhat damaged woman.
This is a fast flowing read but one that really makes the reader consider the consequences of our actions. How many of us went through our child and teenage years without saying or doing something nasty to another child? How many of us were the victims of bullies?
Psychologically tense with characters that jumped from the pages - I will certainly look out for more work by Suzanne Bugler
Narrated by Laura, a woman who lives the seemingly perfect life - with the perfect children, husband, house and circle of friends. Her friends are women who are all married to rich men, women who spend their time talking hair, shoes, lunch and judging each other by what they have or do not have. A totally superficial life based on wealth, appearance and greed.
Laura gets a blast from the past when she receives a call from Mrs Partridge. Laura bullied the woman's daughter - Heddy. Bullied her so badly that it is clear that Heddy's life has been formed by her childhood experiences. Heddy is in a psychiatric ward and her Mother wants Laura's help to get her home.
As Laura reflects on her past and the awful things that she did to Heddy, it's clear that underneath the glam exterior she too is a scarred and somewhat damaged woman.
This is a fast flowing read but one that really makes the reader consider the consequences of our actions. How many of us went through our child and teenage years without saying or doing something nasty to another child? How many of us were the victims of bullies?
Psychologically tense with characters that jumped from the pages - I will certainly look out for more work by Suzanne Bugler
September 26, 2011
I did not expect to like this book. I read it because it was chosen for a book club I belong to. I actually found it incredibly readable - so much so that I read it in one day! And the story told is terribly touching. It is one of those stories that is about being human and being fallible, and about the way that as fallible humans we can do horrible things. Sometimes that we realise are horrible, and sometimes that somehow we manage not to see. As a result, this book is heavily about guilt and about the fronts we put up in life to fit in and to protect ourselves. It is a quick read, and light in writing style - but it is not a light book. It has aspects that could be triggering to some readers, particularly relating to self harm and bullying, which may be important to anyone thinking about recommending it to others!
February 21, 2011
This is a book about childhood bullying written from the bully's perspective. Laura and her friends made Heddy's life a nightmare- but her father continued to insist that she accompany Heddy to ballet and brownies.
Out of the blue Heddy's mum calls her and asks for her help. Heddy has suffered a breakdown and is in hospital. She wants Laura's help to get her home again. She reluctantly gets drawn in- and reveals images of the past. Her seemingly perfect world begins to unravel and the 'friends' she has draw away.
It was very well written- but such a sensitive subject. You don't feel sorry for Laura- because she's living a very superficial life and is still the sort of person who has the malicious thoughts about people who don't fit into the 'perfect' mould.
Out of the blue Heddy's mum calls her and asks for her help. Heddy has suffered a breakdown and is in hospital. She wants Laura's help to get her home again. She reluctantly gets drawn in- and reveals images of the past. Her seemingly perfect world begins to unravel and the 'friends' she has draw away.
It was very well written- but such a sensitive subject. You don't feel sorry for Laura- because she's living a very superficial life and is still the sort of person who has the malicious thoughts about people who don't fit into the 'perfect' mould.
February 26, 2012
This year so far hasn't been a good one for readng, I haven't read a five star book yet so I had high hopes for this book especially as I'd read some great reviews about it. It's a shame to say I was thoroughly disappointed, it wasn't until 250 pages in that the book moved on from the first page. It was very slow paced and seemed to go over the same thing, the main character in the book (Laura) and her friends just seemed to get get shallower and blonder as the story went on.
As the book has received some great reviews then I wouldn't say don't read it but don't be surprised if it's a bit of a let down.
As the book has received some great reviews then I wouldn't say don't read it but don't be surprised if it's a bit of a let down.
July 6, 2018
I find Suzanne Bugler's novels easy to get into and enjoy reading them all. I thought This perfect World was fab!.
August 6, 2021
Interesting to read about the point of view of a bully. Overall a good book. Wished to have known more about james and laura's marriage at the end.
May 28, 2019
This book confronts many issues we have all probably encountered during our lives , from bullying to self harm, deception and lies.
The story follows the main character who is a bully at school, then explores the moral dilemmas this brings when she reflects upon this in adulthood.
This then leads her question the importance of her material possessions and supposedly ideal life, which we all strive for, but fundamentally are they important?
The guilt she experiences throughout her adult life becomes a overwhelming burden, causing cracks to appear in her ideal world.
She tries to put right the damage she has done but this causes forgotten memories to resurface and secrets to be revealed.
The story follows the main character who is a bully at school, then explores the moral dilemmas this brings when she reflects upon this in adulthood.
This then leads her question the importance of her material possessions and supposedly ideal life, which we all strive for, but fundamentally are they important?
The guilt she experiences throughout her adult life becomes a overwhelming burden, causing cracks to appear in her ideal world.
She tries to put right the damage she has done but this causes forgotten memories to resurface and secrets to be revealed.
March 9, 2023
A good read about a woman who was Miss Popular at school and was part of the 'in-crowd' who didn't think twice about ridiculing those without looks or money - who were different from the spoiled brat she was. As an adult she is part of a clique of mothers who are the 'in-crowd' - the group everyone wishes they were part of with their perfect houses, perfect children, perfect partner's, nails, hair etc but it gradually all falls down around her ears because of historical events - a worth while if not anger provoking read
January 24, 2024
Uncomfortable to read at times, but none the less compelling. The narrator is brutally honest both about her own feelings and behaviour and the environment she inhabits.
May 4, 2013
I stumbled across this book while looking for something similar to Sophie Hannah's crime novels (which I love). At first glance it seemed to have the same sort of heroine with a dark past and promised intriguing plot twists. In reality it proved to be very different in style and genre. Despite the dark themes in Sophie Hannah's books, they are ultimately redemptive and have a positive vibe running through them - you know everything will turn out well for the central character in the end, even if a few bodies have piled up along the way, and you definitely know the narrator innocent and one of the good guys.
Not so in this novel - the narrator is a former school bully and the present-day story is punctuated with a recount of some of the despicable things she did to poor Heddy Partridge as a child. I felt deeply uncomfortable reading the early chapters as I was painfully reminded of my own experiences being bullied at school. The narrator's almost total lack of conscious remorse at the start bothered me, not because it makes her an unsympathetic anti-hero (which it does) but because it seems simply unrealistic. Could someone this smart really not appreciate how horrible she was as a child?
The portrayal of Laura's mundane life and vacuous social scene is also relentlessly negative. All the supporting characters seem like grotesque caricatures - but I have been assured by my friends that people like this really do exist - I just move in the wrong social circles so have never met them.
Heddy's lack of a voice also bothered me. She seems to exist only in relation to Laura, a helpful therapy tool to get Laura to face her problems.
Somehow I got sucked into the story though and the unobtrusively smooth writing style and entertainingly dreadful characters kept me entertained. Laura's gradual rebellion was fun to read, although I wish she could have changed more. I expected it to turn into an upbeat chick-lit story about how she completely turned her life around; instead she remained resolutely shallow and self-obsessed, just changing her focus a little.
Not so in this novel - the narrator is a former school bully and the present-day story is punctuated with a recount of some of the despicable things she did to poor Heddy Partridge as a child. I felt deeply uncomfortable reading the early chapters as I was painfully reminded of my own experiences being bullied at school. The narrator's almost total lack of conscious remorse at the start bothered me, not because it makes her an unsympathetic anti-hero (which it does) but because it seems simply unrealistic. Could someone this smart really not appreciate how horrible she was as a child?
The portrayal of Laura's mundane life and vacuous social scene is also relentlessly negative. All the supporting characters seem like grotesque caricatures - but I have been assured by my friends that people like this really do exist - I just move in the wrong social circles so have never met them.
Heddy's lack of a voice also bothered me. She seems to exist only in relation to Laura, a helpful therapy tool to get Laura to face her problems.
Somehow I got sucked into the story though and the unobtrusively smooth writing style and entertainingly dreadful characters kept me entertained. Laura's gradual rebellion was fun to read, although I wish she could have changed more. I expected it to turn into an upbeat chick-lit story about how she completely turned her life around; instead she remained resolutely shallow and self-obsessed, just changing her focus a little.
June 15, 2012
Laura Hamley has everything - a perfect life, good husband, beautiful children and supportive friends, but old memories are reopened when she receives an unexpected phone call from the mother of a girl she once bullied at school. Laura has managed to successfully block from her life all the unpleasantness which was associated with her unusual relationship with Heddy Partridge, but when Heddy's mother asks for Laura's help in getting Heddy released from hospital, Laura must face the hidden demons which have plagued her life for so long.
This is a strange book to enjoy, on the surface it's a rather unpleasant tale of abject misery, brought about by the insecurities of life, and yet it is also one of those stories which compels you to keep reading 'just a little bit more'.
The characterisation is excellent -
I didn't like Laura, she is remarkably flawed, and yet there is an underlying insecurity which reveals itself as the story evolves.
Heddy is a strange and enigmatic character,who lies in isolated splendour in a hospital bed, gloriously obese and incredibly vulnerable.
Mrs Partridge reminded me forcibly of the Dickens character Uriah Heep,on the surface meek and mild, and yet creepily manipulative.
Piece by piece the story of Laura and Heddy's childhood relationship is explored, until long buried secrets are revealed.
This is a strange book to enjoy, on the surface it's a rather unpleasant tale of abject misery, brought about by the insecurities of life, and yet it is also one of those stories which compels you to keep reading 'just a little bit more'.
The characterisation is excellent -
I didn't like Laura, she is remarkably flawed, and yet there is an underlying insecurity which reveals itself as the story evolves.
Heddy is a strange and enigmatic character,who lies in isolated splendour in a hospital bed, gloriously obese and incredibly vulnerable.
Mrs Partridge reminded me forcibly of the Dickens character Uriah Heep,on the surface meek and mild, and yet creepily manipulative.
Piece by piece the story of Laura and Heddy's childhood relationship is explored, until long buried secrets are revealed.
June 16, 2011
The long term consequences of childhood cruelty are explored in this very nuanced book. Consequences to the victim yes, but also to the bully. When Laura is reluctantly forced to confront her own past behavior she is horrified by her actions. As she slowly works towards some kind of redemption, she begins to examine everything that makes up her own " perfect life ".
I enjoyed this very much. An uncomfortable read at times. The cruelty to "poor Heddy Partridge" was painful to experience, but the slow and steady deconstruction of everything Laura thought was important was so compelling that I couldn't look away. The denouement was very unexpected to me and the note the book ended on was kind of unusual but I think that increased my enjoyment. I'm actually sorry to have finished. I really wanted to know more.
I picked this up in the UK last summer after seeing it everywhere. It needs to be more available in the US.
I enjoyed this very much. An uncomfortable read at times. The cruelty to "poor Heddy Partridge" was painful to experience, but the slow and steady deconstruction of everything Laura thought was important was so compelling that I couldn't look away. The denouement was very unexpected to me and the note the book ended on was kind of unusual but I think that increased my enjoyment. I'm actually sorry to have finished. I really wanted to know more.
I picked this up in the UK last summer after seeing it everywhere. It needs to be more available in the US.
July 23, 2011
This was a fantastic book which called back the narrator's memories of childhood bullying, but from the perspective of the perpetrator.
Laura recalls Heddy Partridge's treatment at her hands when Heddy is brought back into her life following a call from her mother.
As Laura questions her actions in childhood, the thin veneer of her seemingly perfect life as a middle-class suburban housewife starts to crumble.
This is a sad and soul-searching tale of bullying, self-harm, guilt and the question of if we can ever make amends for our past actions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it's so well written. Laura's guilt and emotional turmoil are perfectly described, and in spite of her despicable actions in childhood, I ended up sympathising with her character to some extent in the end as the full truth is uncovered.
Laura recalls Heddy Partridge's treatment at her hands when Heddy is brought back into her life following a call from her mother.
As Laura questions her actions in childhood, the thin veneer of her seemingly perfect life as a middle-class suburban housewife starts to crumble.
This is a sad and soul-searching tale of bullying, self-harm, guilt and the question of if we can ever make amends for our past actions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it's so well written. Laura's guilt and emotional turmoil are perfectly described, and in spite of her despicable actions in childhood, I ended up sympathising with her character to some extent in the end as the full truth is uncovered.
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February 21, 2015I got this book as a gift from one of the students, I read it 2 years ago for the sake of improving my English. I didn't think that I would love it, i'm reading it now again, so deep that sad story was being told from the bad one's side - as we might think - to realize that the matter of classifying people is a way beyond those two " good and bad sides". It's complicated
It touches me how bad, scary, cruel to get bullied, and having a sad childhood memories.
It touches me how bad, scary, cruel to get bullied, and having a sad childhood memories.
February 17, 2014
A quick read, but a FANTASTIC one! So tense and deep, and definitely makes you think about decisions you've made, and how those decisions may have affected people. The topic of bullying at school is a big one here, and so realistic. A really excellent book I thought.
July 24, 2011
I thought this was a brilliant book. It was hard to read at some points because of the subject matter. I felt for the character Heddy. Great writing and well worth a read.
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March 12, 2021Laura wordt gebeld door Hetty's moeder. Ze vraagt haar om haar te helpen om Hetty uit de psychiatrische instelling te krijgen. Haar zoontje heeft zijn moeder nodig. Laura is eerst niet van plan om Hetty of haar moeder te helpen want zij en haar vriendinnen pestten Hetty vroeger. Na lang aandringen, gaat ze dan toch bij Hetty langs... In het boek gaan we regelmatig naar het verleden en zien we hoe de relatie Laura- Hetty was... Laura was een echte pestkop omdat haar vader haar opdrong zich met Hetty bezig te houden. Hij probeerde ook veel voor het gezin te betekenen aangezien Hetty's vader vroeg stierf aan longkanker. Doorheen het boek brokkelt ook het leven van Laura af. Het perfecte leventje met de perfecte vrienden staat al snel op wankelen. Ze ziet nu pas in hoe oppervlakkig haar leven is, met de etentjes, koffietjes drinken, gelakte nageltjes, perfecte kapsel... daar horen psychische vriendinnen helpen niet bij...
Op het einde van het boek komen we ook te weten waarom de vader van Laura zo nauw betrokken is met het gezin. Hij was nl. de werkgever van de vader van Hetty en heeft de man ondanks dat hij wist dat het gebouw vol asbest zat hem onbeschermd de werf laten bewerken waardoor de man naar waarschijnlijkheid kanker kreeg en stierf. Hij zette Laura in om zijn schuldgevoel naar het gezin goed te praten. Hetty komt uiteindelijk ook uit de kliniek en gaat samen met haar moeder en zoon bij haar broer wonen.
Op het einde van het boek komen we ook te weten waarom de vader van Laura zo nauw betrokken is met het gezin. Hij was nl. de werkgever van de vader van Hetty en heeft de man ondanks dat hij wist dat het gebouw vol asbest zat hem onbeschermd de werf laten bewerken waardoor de man naar waarschijnlijkheid kanker kreeg en stierf. Hij zette Laura in om zijn schuldgevoel naar het gezin goed te praten. Hetty komt uiteindelijk ook uit de kliniek en gaat samen met haar moeder en zoon bij haar broer wonen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2020
4 star read. This was a Richard and Judy UK Book Club selection in 2011. Laura has the perfect life, gorgeous husband, great house in a good neighbourhood, two perfect children, she has it all. But a plea from the mother of a school friend takes Laura on a voyage of discovery into what kind of person she really is and how perfect her life really isn't. Laura is told that her school friend Heddy has had a breakdown and help is needed to get her out of hospital and home to look after her young son, Nathan. Laura doesn't want to get involved as she detested Heddy and she and her friends mercilessly bullied her all through school. But some remorse about the way she treated the girl has Laura helping out her family. And as she does, her perspective changes and she sees her husband and her friends and her life in a new way. There are topics of sensitivity including self harm in this book. I thought it was a thought provoking read.
June 25, 2019
Despite my cynicism and distaste for designer lifestyles constructed by people who have too much money and too little originality or perspective on what is really important for a happy life, I found myself sucked into the minutiae of the seemingly 'perfect' life led by Laura and her cronies. They are blonde (with highlights by Alex); clever, thin and rich with handsome, successful husbands and multi-talented gorgeous children.
But the narrative becomes increasingly uncomfortable and ultimately shocking when we realise what had to be sacrificed of others' lives in order to secure their superficially attractive but merciless lifestyles. Theirs, in fact, is far from 'The Perfect World' which Laura learns in the most painful way possible as she is forced to face the truth about her past and its consequences for the needless suffering an entirely innocent family.
But the narrative becomes increasingly uncomfortable and ultimately shocking when we realise what had to be sacrificed of others' lives in order to secure their superficially attractive but merciless lifestyles. Theirs, in fact, is far from 'The Perfect World' which Laura learns in the most painful way possible as she is forced to face the truth about her past and its consequences for the needless suffering an entirely innocent family.
March 25, 2019
This was overall an average read for me, don't get me wrong I loved the idea of the story but I think it was executed poorly. I didn't meet the bullying victim until I was a good chunk through the book. I love character development but this was too much and too uninteresting. However the ending was something I definitely see coming and the last part of the book had me hooked.
FAVOURITE QUOTE'S:
'I am on the outside now. I am on the outside of my own life, and observing from the sidelines as it so easily comes apart.'
'I have the weird feeling of not belonging to my life anymore. surprisingly, I don't really care. I feel strangely free, like a ghost walking through, just watching...'
FAVOURITE QUOTE'S:
'I am on the outside now. I am on the outside of my own life, and observing from the sidelines as it so easily comes apart.'
'I have the weird feeling of not belonging to my life anymore. surprisingly, I don't really care. I feel strangely free, like a ghost walking through, just watching...'
July 16, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - it was well written and it explored nicely the themes of guilt and the emptiness of a materialistic status-seeking and status-maintaining suburban life for women, how it can trap you into convention. It was also nice to read a book that centred on a bully rather than the bullied. The we actually see very little from the victim's point of view, but in a way that represents life - how often would the bully really see or understand things from the victim's point of view? But when, years after the school yard bullying, how might the adult bully reflect upon their behaviour when the consequences are resented to them?
January 24, 2020
This book had in its core a great message
as it is a story of redemption - mistakes we make in our childhood
not realizing the pain and hurt we can cause others.
There were so many things that I wish this book could have done better.
Perhaps the first person is a problem in this novel as I really wanted
to get to know Heddy and what her feelings were about the bullying but of course
could not since it was in Laura's perspective. Still I feel there could have been
some conversation made through Violet to let us know. It left me with the feeling that
Heddy was just some dumb girl who could not and would not stand up for herself.
as it is a story of redemption - mistakes we make in our childhood
not realizing the pain and hurt we can cause others.
There were so many things that I wish this book could have done better.
Perhaps the first person is a problem in this novel as I really wanted
to get to know Heddy and what her feelings were about the bullying but of course
could not since it was in Laura's perspective. Still I feel there could have been
some conversation made through Violet to let us know. It left me with the feeling that
Heddy was just some dumb girl who could not and would not stand up for herself.
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