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Swimming Upstream #1
The Lies You Tell: An addictive tale of secrets and betrayal from the author of The Woman on the Ledge
'I once read that the end of a relationship is like being involved in a road traffic accident. Which is quite fitting really, given what happened.'
Cambridge, 1992.
For Lizzie Taylor, one moment changes her life forever. When she accidentally steps out in the path of an oncoming car, an old friend comes to her rescue and everything she thought made her happy starts to unravel: the long-term boyfriend no longer feels like her soulmate and her job isn't fulfilling anymore.
Lizzie starts to make drastic changes, not knowing that a terrible betrayal will rip apart the new life she's built. Set in the early 1990s in Cambridge and London, it's a story of love, friendship, divided loyalties and the moral choices we face everyday.
What readers are saying about The Lies You Tell:
'The story is both entertaining and enlightening in equal measure. There is a poignancy which tugs at the heart strings ... I hope to be able to read more from this talented author in future novels' Jo Barton, Amazon Top 500 Reviewer.
'A thought-provoking, intelligent read, that I wholeheartedly recommend' Bookworm.
'I enjoyed the way it was written and found it really easy to read – in fact I couldn't put it down and finished it within 24 hours! I felt like I quickly got to know and love the characters – especially Lizzie. This is Ruth's first novel and I'm definitely looking forward to the next!' Esther Willis.
'This is a beautifully written story and one that I would highly recommend. Ruth Mancini has a great talent and I will certainly be looking to read more by this talented author in the future' Torrenstp.
Cambridge, 1992.
For Lizzie Taylor, one moment changes her life forever. When she accidentally steps out in the path of an oncoming car, an old friend comes to her rescue and everything she thought made her happy starts to unravel: the long-term boyfriend no longer feels like her soulmate and her job isn't fulfilling anymore.
Lizzie starts to make drastic changes, not knowing that a terrible betrayal will rip apart the new life she's built. Set in the early 1990s in Cambridge and London, it's a story of love, friendship, divided loyalties and the moral choices we face everyday.
What readers are saying about The Lies You Tell:
'The story is both entertaining and enlightening in equal measure. There is a poignancy which tugs at the heart strings ... I hope to be able to read more from this talented author in future novels' Jo Barton, Amazon Top 500 Reviewer.
'A thought-provoking, intelligent read, that I wholeheartedly recommend' Bookworm.
'I enjoyed the way it was written and found it really easy to read – in fact I couldn't put it down and finished it within 24 hours! I felt like I quickly got to know and love the characters – especially Lizzie. This is Ruth's first novel and I'm definitely looking forward to the next!' Esther Willis.
'This is a beautifully written story and one that I would highly recommend. Ruth Mancini has a great talent and I will certainly be looking to read more by this talented author in the future' Torrenstp.
257 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2012
140 people are currently reading
1917 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Mancini
8 books436 followersRuth Mancini is an author and criminal defence lawyer. Her background as a solicitor adds authenticity to her crime and psychological fiction. She has spent two decades representing those accused of crimes, navigating courtrooms and police stations. Her storytelling prowess and legal background combine to create thrilling reads that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Ruth was born in London and now lives in Oxfordshire with her husband and two children.
Her fifth novel, THE WOMAN ON THE LEDGE was published by Penguin (UK) and HarperCollins (US) in January 2024.
She'd love to connect with you on FB https://www.facebook.com/ruth.mancini... or Twitter https://twitter.com/RuthMancini1
Ruth was born in London and now lives in Oxfordshire with her husband and two children.
Her fifth novel, THE WOMAN ON THE LEDGE was published by Penguin (UK) and HarperCollins (US) in January 2024.
She'd love to connect with you on FB https://www.facebook.com/ruth.mancini... or Twitter https://twitter.com/RuthMancini1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
November 20, 2012
I loved this 22 chapter book. My favorite types of stories are the ones that are drama filled, and this story definitely had plenty of drama. It was told through Lizzie’s first person point-of-view. Even though she was the main character, readers get a chance to understand the supporting characters as well. It’s not a one-person show. I enjoyed that all the supporting characters had sub-plots, allowing the conflict and tension to really heighten.
Swimming Upstream was raw and edgy; it wasn’t afraid to cover topics that society may consider taboo–like abortion, depression, date rape, psych wards, domestic violence, etc. The author had a great talent with dialogue and plot. The conversations were very realistic, and characters’ interactions with one another seemed true to their personalities. There weren’t any boring scenes–Ruth Mancini’s descriptions enhanced the story for me. I could see this story as an Oscar nominated movie.
My favorite lines were: 1) “It’s a strange kind of irony. The things that affect us most are the things we can’t remember.” 2) “I heard once that all stories end with one of three things: forgiveness, revenge or tragedy.” 3) “It was as if we were having two different conversations. Which wasn’t that surprising after all, as we were clearly having too entirely different experiences of breaking up.” I enjoyed that the story had a philosophical feel to it, helping me analyze certain things about life.
Lizzie reminded me of myself in a way. She’s somewhat awkward around the opposite sex, yet they find her charming and attractive anyway. I felt for Lizzie when she and Larsen (her ex-boyfriend) broke up. It seemed like her potential love interests were attractive and cute until they showed their true douchebag colors.
My favorite scenes were: 1) when Lizzie and Larsen have an argument in the living room, resulting in a break-up, which was bittersweet. I loved the flashback of how they first met. 2) when Zara (her friend) starts talking about conspiracy theories, causing her to be admitted to a psych ward. It made me proud that she was strong enough to overcome it, instead of letting her clinical depression define her. 3) the creepy scenes when Martin (her other friend’s fiance) would hang around Lizzie. I wished someone would have kicked his butt. 4) When Tim (her friend) expresses he loves Lizzie. He was so sweet.
The story was based in Cambridge and London, so the phrases, spellings, and slang were based off England. It was cool comparing the way across the pond says things differently than how Americans speak. For instance, a flat (in England terms) is a house (in American terms).
I RECOMMEND this book to read.
Swimming Upstream was raw and edgy; it wasn’t afraid to cover topics that society may consider taboo–like abortion, depression, date rape, psych wards, domestic violence, etc. The author had a great talent with dialogue and plot. The conversations were very realistic, and characters’ interactions with one another seemed true to their personalities. There weren’t any boring scenes–Ruth Mancini’s descriptions enhanced the story for me. I could see this story as an Oscar nominated movie.
My favorite lines were: 1) “It’s a strange kind of irony. The things that affect us most are the things we can’t remember.” 2) “I heard once that all stories end with one of three things: forgiveness, revenge or tragedy.” 3) “It was as if we were having two different conversations. Which wasn’t that surprising after all, as we were clearly having too entirely different experiences of breaking up.” I enjoyed that the story had a philosophical feel to it, helping me analyze certain things about life.
Lizzie reminded me of myself in a way. She’s somewhat awkward around the opposite sex, yet they find her charming and attractive anyway. I felt for Lizzie when she and Larsen (her ex-boyfriend) broke up. It seemed like her potential love interests were attractive and cute until they showed their true douchebag colors.
My favorite scenes were: 1) when Lizzie and Larsen have an argument in the living room, resulting in a break-up, which was bittersweet. I loved the flashback of how they first met. 2) when Zara (her friend) starts talking about conspiracy theories, causing her to be admitted to a psych ward. It made me proud that she was strong enough to overcome it, instead of letting her clinical depression define her. 3) the creepy scenes when Martin (her other friend’s fiance) would hang around Lizzie. I wished someone would have kicked his butt. 4) When Tim (her friend) expresses he loves Lizzie. He was so sweet.
The story was based in Cambridge and London, so the phrases, spellings, and slang were based off England. It was cool comparing the way across the pond says things differently than how Americans speak. For instance, a flat (in England terms) is a house (in American terms).
I RECOMMEND this book to read.
January 10, 2013
This is an unusual book and, in many ways, a sad one, exploring as it does the angst and dissatisfaction of life and relationships in what was quite a brittle era. The portrayal of bi polar personality is interesting as is the issue of control and domestic violence. Within the dramas of the book, the characters often seem adrift, moving from one situation to another in that hapless way that many of us do/did to some extent in our 20s. Although there is humour in the writing, their is poignancy and melancholy too. One cannot help but become deeply involved with the characters as they move through their various situations. How they resolve their personal entanglements makes for absorbing reading.
Because the dialogue is a little awkward in places and the book seems, to me, to be a tad over polished, I haven't given it five stars - but don't let that put you off reading what is an engrossing and well written book.
Because the dialogue is a little awkward in places and the book seems, to me, to be a tad over polished, I haven't given it five stars - but don't let that put you off reading what is an engrossing and well written book.
February 21, 2013
Lizzie Taylor has begun to achieve all the things she thought she had ever wanted. She is in a relationship with Larson, a man she has loved for years, and while her career could be better, it is at least satisfying. Yet, she is not happy. There isn't anything specific she can name to cause that unhappiness, but there is that sense of discontent.
When she is hit by a car and is injured, that event propels her in a new direction. Larson is not helpful or supportive in her time of need, so she decides to leave him and move to London. She has the offer of a better job there, and maybe it is time for a change.
Lizzie battles to overcome the legacy of her past, while reconnecting with friends Zara and Catherine. Each friend has a secret that is slowly revealed to Lizzie, and her natural impulse is to help her friends. Catherine has been habitually abused by a boyfriend, who also seems to have a yen for Lizzie, and the zaniness that has been endearing about Zara is actually the manic stage of bipolar disorder. When the depression hit, it pulls Zara into the darkest corners of her mind.
Attempting to support her friends in their challenges while sorting out her own life provides a story that is vivid, poignant, and sometimes humorous. It is also harshly real in places, and the author does not hold back on the tough subjects such as date rape, mental illness, and domestic violence.
This is an enjoyable read, and I wanted to cheer for Lizzie every time she made a good choice and overcame another obstacle.
When she is hit by a car and is injured, that event propels her in a new direction. Larson is not helpful or supportive in her time of need, so she decides to leave him and move to London. She has the offer of a better job there, and maybe it is time for a change.
Lizzie battles to overcome the legacy of her past, while reconnecting with friends Zara and Catherine. Each friend has a secret that is slowly revealed to Lizzie, and her natural impulse is to help her friends. Catherine has been habitually abused by a boyfriend, who also seems to have a yen for Lizzie, and the zaniness that has been endearing about Zara is actually the manic stage of bipolar disorder. When the depression hit, it pulls Zara into the darkest corners of her mind.
Attempting to support her friends in their challenges while sorting out her own life provides a story that is vivid, poignant, and sometimes humorous. It is also harshly real in places, and the author does not hold back on the tough subjects such as date rape, mental illness, and domestic violence.
This is an enjoyable read, and I wanted to cheer for Lizzie every time she made a good choice and overcame another obstacle.
March 16, 2013
Lizzie Taylor is at a crossroads in her life. She has been in a relationship with Larson for several years, and she finds that she wants more from the relationship while Larson believes it is fine the way it is. Lizzie is also feeling stagnant in her career, feeling her qualifications and abilities are not being utilized to their fullest. After being hit by a car, Lizzie begins to examine her life and finds it lacking. So she sets out on a new course, finds two old friends, and is soon involved in much more than she anticipated.
Swimming Upstream is a story of a woman trying to find her place in life. She examines her present and her past, trying to make sense of where she's been and where she is headed. Author Ruth Mancini does an excellent job of immersing the reader into Lizzie's life from the very beginning. Her experiences are ones that many women can relate to, dealing with relationships, career choices, and friendships. The characters are vivid and intense – you feel as if you know them personally. And even though there are a wide variety of characters in this story, they are each unique and easily identifiable.
I enjoyed this novel very much. The writing is smooth and vividly descriptive. I would liken Ms. Mancini's writing style to that of author Elizabeth Buchan, whose writing I genuinely enjoy. I look forward to reading more by Ruth Mancini.
Swimming Upstream is a story of a woman trying to find her place in life. She examines her present and her past, trying to make sense of where she's been and where she is headed. Author Ruth Mancini does an excellent job of immersing the reader into Lizzie's life from the very beginning. Her experiences are ones that many women can relate to, dealing with relationships, career choices, and friendships. The characters are vivid and intense – you feel as if you know them personally. And even though there are a wide variety of characters in this story, they are each unique and easily identifiable.
I enjoyed this novel very much. The writing is smooth and vividly descriptive. I would liken Ms. Mancini's writing style to that of author Elizabeth Buchan, whose writing I genuinely enjoy. I look forward to reading more by Ruth Mancini.
February 6, 2013
Lizzie Taylor feels that she has everything she has ever wanted, but when an unexpected road accident forces her to re-evaluate her life, she realises that she is far from happy, and leaving her reasonably settled life in Cambridge behind, she sets off on a journey to London. The book is set in the boom years of the 1990’s, and from the narrative, is it obvious that the author is familiar with both Cambridge and London, and uses her knowledge of this era to good effect. The story is both entertaining and enlightening in equal measure and yet, underneath the humour is a story of self discovery and the realisation that life sometimes turns out very different from the way in which we thought it would.
I found the book easy to read; the narrative flows well and encourages a large amount of emotional investment in the characters, so much so, I really cared about what happened to Lizzie, she could have been someone I once knew. Overall, there is poignancy to the story which tugs at the heart strings and the ending when it comes is well thought out and in keeping with the theme of the story.
As a debut novel, the book has much to commend it, and I hope to be able to read more from this talented author in future novels.
I found the book easy to read; the narrative flows well and encourages a large amount of emotional investment in the characters, so much so, I really cared about what happened to Lizzie, she could have been someone I once knew. Overall, there is poignancy to the story which tugs at the heart strings and the ending when it comes is well thought out and in keeping with the theme of the story.
As a debut novel, the book has much to commend it, and I hope to be able to read more from this talented author in future novels.
September 22, 2013
Hard to put down!!!
This was a great book. I loved the heroine, Lizzie and could relate to that “something is missing” feeling. She is a strong woman—a survivor—who manages to do what a lot of people are afraid to do…she takes charge of her life, and makes necessary changes when she realizes she’s not happy.
I was drawn to the pages, trying to find out what happens to Lizzie. The supporting characters—Lizzie’s two friends—are well-developed and very interesting.
This book was hard to put down, and I’m looking forward to reading another book from this author.
This was a great book. I loved the heroine, Lizzie and could relate to that “something is missing” feeling. She is a strong woman—a survivor—who manages to do what a lot of people are afraid to do…she takes charge of her life, and makes necessary changes when she realizes she’s not happy.
I was drawn to the pages, trying to find out what happens to Lizzie. The supporting characters—Lizzie’s two friends—are well-developed and very interesting.
This book was hard to put down, and I’m looking forward to reading another book from this author.
June 6, 2013
I could not put down this book when I started reading it. I have to say, I really really do not like Martin. That aside I believe this book really shows the ups and downs in life and how people can sometimes fool themselves into thinking that they are happy because they do not want to see the truth. I know every person can relate to at least one character in this book. I am glad that I had the chance to read it and I know I will read it again!
February 2, 2013
Loved it. Fantastic book. Once I started reading Swimming Upstream I did not want to put it down. It drew me in to the emotions being felt by Lizzie until I felt everyone of them myself.
Note: I received a copy of this book through Goodreads First Reads.
Note: I received a copy of this book through Goodreads First Reads.
February 24, 2013
This is an absolutely brilliant book. Others have commented that it's more of book for women but I'm not a woman, and I enjoyed it. ******** Pause ********* I've just done a quick check; i'm definitely a man.
December 23, 2012
This character-driven tale is a story of self-discovery, friendships, relationships and what happens when you realise that you aren't quite as satisfied with your life as you had always led yourself to believe.
Getting hit by a car forces the protagonist of this story, Lizzie, to take a look at her life and in particular assess her long-term relationship. When she realises that ultimately it is going nowhere, ending it is only the catalyst in a long chain of events that later leads her to seek a new job and a new home, as well as resurrect friendships from her past.
This story is nicely paced with believable characters and situations, some of which make for uncomfortable reading in a sense- including domestic abuse, abortion and mental illness- all of which are sensitively handled by the author. The story has the right balance of drama and tension and in moving Lizzie away from her comfort zone and all she knows, it also allows the reader to get to know her as an individual and realise that she is a stronger person than she gives herself credit for. I liked Lizzie a lot, in particular the way she cared about her friends. I think she is easy to relate to as a person, as undoubtedly a lot of people can identify with the break down of a relationship and in moving away from something that feels like all you have ever known.
The secondary characters were all very well drawn too. I really liked the flashback scenes as to how Lizzie met Larsen when she was a student; it made for an interesting contrast in her later relationship with him and what they had become (or not), in essence as Larsen seemed happy for the two of them to stay exactly as they had always been. Catherine, one of Lizzie's best friends, was a complex character- I wasn't 100 percent sure if I liked her or not actually, but I really felt for her predicament and I disliked her boyfriend Martin immensely for what he put her through. Again, her suffering (and her putting up with it) felt all too believable. I think Zara was my favourite character, and the way she was portrayed and her own personal turmoil, was handled very well.
It did feel in parts of this book that a couple of opportunities had been missed, which is my only criticism with this story overall. For example, I would have perhaps liked to know a little bit more about Lizzie's stepfather and the situation with her family than what was eventually uncovered. That aspect of the book did feel a little bit glossed over for my tastes, given it had impacted so much on her life and especially still resonated with her as an adult.
I really enjoyed this story. The writing flowed beautifully with some very vivid descriptions and a strong sense of place and all in all it felt very 'real.' I would certainly like to read more from the author in future.
**Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this novel for review.**
Getting hit by a car forces the protagonist of this story, Lizzie, to take a look at her life and in particular assess her long-term relationship. When she realises that ultimately it is going nowhere, ending it is only the catalyst in a long chain of events that later leads her to seek a new job and a new home, as well as resurrect friendships from her past.
This story is nicely paced with believable characters and situations, some of which make for uncomfortable reading in a sense- including domestic abuse, abortion and mental illness- all of which are sensitively handled by the author. The story has the right balance of drama and tension and in moving Lizzie away from her comfort zone and all she knows, it also allows the reader to get to know her as an individual and realise that she is a stronger person than she gives herself credit for. I liked Lizzie a lot, in particular the way she cared about her friends. I think she is easy to relate to as a person, as undoubtedly a lot of people can identify with the break down of a relationship and in moving away from something that feels like all you have ever known.
The secondary characters were all very well drawn too. I really liked the flashback scenes as to how Lizzie met Larsen when she was a student; it made for an interesting contrast in her later relationship with him and what they had become (or not), in essence as Larsen seemed happy for the two of them to stay exactly as they had always been. Catherine, one of Lizzie's best friends, was a complex character- I wasn't 100 percent sure if I liked her or not actually, but I really felt for her predicament and I disliked her boyfriend Martin immensely for what he put her through. Again, her suffering (and her putting up with it) felt all too believable. I think Zara was my favourite character, and the way she was portrayed and her own personal turmoil, was handled very well.
It did feel in parts of this book that a couple of opportunities had been missed, which is my only criticism with this story overall. For example, I would have perhaps liked to know a little bit more about Lizzie's stepfather and the situation with her family than what was eventually uncovered. That aspect of the book did feel a little bit glossed over for my tastes, given it had impacted so much on her life and especially still resonated with her as an adult.
I really enjoyed this story. The writing flowed beautifully with some very vivid descriptions and a strong sense of place and all in all it felt very 'real.' I would certainly like to read more from the author in future.
**Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this novel for review.**
April 28, 2013
Lizzie has been living in a ‘fog of unhappiness’. Her relationship with her boyfriend hasn’t been right for some time, and despite the fact that she has a good job and friends, there’s something missing in her life. Then Lizzie accidentally walks into the path of a car, and she sets in motion a series of events that will change her life for ever.
This is a story about loss, about choices, living with your decisions, battling your demons, and most of all I think it’s about friendship. The warm, but sometimes complex, relationships Lizzie shares with her two friends, Catherine and Zara, are at the heart of this book. The women support each other through their respective difficulties, which include domestic violence and mental illness. But that doesn’t mean just providing tea and sympathy, it means really being there for someone and sometimes questioning their decisions. I could relate to aspects of each woman, but I have to confess a soft spot for Zara.
Despite dealing with serious subjects, this is not a bleak book; it is a heartening story about people overcoming the things life throws at them. However, because there are so many issues and themes the book feels overcrowded at times, and some of the dialogue is a little forced where I sense the author loses the authentic voices of the characters in the pursuit of presenting a balanced perspective. A strength of the book is the way in which the author writes of the utter bleakness, the deadly crushing loneliness of coping after a break-up. She also sets the story convincingly in 1990s England, where the politics of the era forms a natural back-drop to the drama.
Although it feels a little tacked on, the ending is absolutely the right one for Lizzie.
This is a story about loss, about choices, living with your decisions, battling your demons, and most of all I think it’s about friendship. The warm, but sometimes complex, relationships Lizzie shares with her two friends, Catherine and Zara, are at the heart of this book. The women support each other through their respective difficulties, which include domestic violence and mental illness. But that doesn’t mean just providing tea and sympathy, it means really being there for someone and sometimes questioning their decisions. I could relate to aspects of each woman, but I have to confess a soft spot for Zara.
Despite dealing with serious subjects, this is not a bleak book; it is a heartening story about people overcoming the things life throws at them. However, because there are so many issues and themes the book feels overcrowded at times, and some of the dialogue is a little forced where I sense the author loses the authentic voices of the characters in the pursuit of presenting a balanced perspective. A strength of the book is the way in which the author writes of the utter bleakness, the deadly crushing loneliness of coping after a break-up. She also sets the story convincingly in 1990s England, where the politics of the era forms a natural back-drop to the drama.
Although it feels a little tacked on, the ending is absolutely the right one for Lizzie.
August 26, 2013
Swimming Upstream is one of those books that when you finish it you just want to tell the whole world to read it. I don't normally read books that deal with tragedy and mental illness, instead gravitating toward books that are a laugh a page... but something about Swimming Upstream pulled me in and didn't let go. There certainly were some funny bits too. The story's heroine, Lizzie, is so very real you start to wonder who of your loved ones she most reminds you of. There is so much going on with her and her close friends that you can't help but think you're like another member of the group just sitting silently watching it all. There are times when I almost got bored, but it wasn't because the writing wasn't great or the plot dragged on, it was because there are so many emotional highs and in between them times of reflection that you almost feel like you want to skip through those and get back to the action. But therein is a lesson. Your life isn't one nonstop party or never-ending cryfest. In between these periods are times to consider your life's course, where you are in journey, and what you might not be wanting to face. Lizzie reminds us that in those periods of our life that we should allow ourselves to feel whatever we feel, be it boredom, anger, heartache, or uncertainty. I highly recommend this book to absolutely every woman from 15 to 50. It's a book that everyone should read once, and then 10 years later read again.
September 4, 2013
SWIMMING UPSTREAM by Ruth Mancini is a poignant story about one woman’s journey to finding out what she really needs in life. The novel is well-written and descriptive, instantly pulling you in and making you care about each of the characters.
Lizzie Taylor tells most of her life story throughout this novel, starting in young adulthood, but flashing back to her childhood and college days enough that the reader really gets a sense of who she is and how her personality was molded by the events of her life. Lizzie is definitely a survivor, as well as a good friend, and I loved how she allowed her friends to lean on her strength when they needed it.
The characters were so vivid and so real, and I could imagine having a conversation with any one of them. The author made me care about what happened to them and worry about them as if they were my own friends. The dialogue is very realistic, as is the plot.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Contemporary Women’s Fiction, especially by British authors. SWIMMING UPSTREAM is a moving tale that will keep you thinking about it for weeks after reading it.
Lizzie Taylor tells most of her life story throughout this novel, starting in young adulthood, but flashing back to her childhood and college days enough that the reader really gets a sense of who she is and how her personality was molded by the events of her life. Lizzie is definitely a survivor, as well as a good friend, and I loved how she allowed her friends to lean on her strength when they needed it.
The characters were so vivid and so real, and I could imagine having a conversation with any one of them. The author made me care about what happened to them and worry about them as if they were my own friends. The dialogue is very realistic, as is the plot.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Contemporary Women’s Fiction, especially by British authors. SWIMMING UPSTREAM is a moving tale that will keep you thinking about it for weeks after reading it.
April 30, 2013
Normalmente los libros de este tipo no me atrapan, solo me ha pasado una vez y fue con Segunda Generación de Howard Fast(lo encontré por casualidad en el desván de mi abuelita), hasta que no lo termine no descanse.
Es totalmente diferente de las novelas románticas o paranormales que leo últimamente pero me atrapo, no es un libro fácil de digerir si se es hiperactivo(lo empece a leer el domingo y fue por que físicamente estaba echa polvo) hay que estar de cierto animo para que te resulte agradable y entrenedido ya que es un poco lento pero atrapa e intriga, la idea en general me gusto, la historia y los personajes personalmente me parecieron bien estructurados(con sueños, ilusiones, defectos, y necesidades) ademas de vez en cuando es agradable leer un libro que te hace plantear tu vida, y como nos adaptamos a lo que nos pasa en ella. Es real, muy real no todo fue color de rosa y hubo uno que otro momento donde sentí cierta desconexión del personaje peroooo nada me gusto y punto! Fue una muy agradable lectura y sorpresa.
Me encanto ese final :)
Es totalmente diferente de las novelas románticas o paranormales que leo últimamente pero me atrapo, no es un libro fácil de digerir si se es hiperactivo(lo empece a leer el domingo y fue por que físicamente estaba echa polvo) hay que estar de cierto animo para que te resulte agradable y entrenedido ya que es un poco lento pero atrapa e intriga, la idea en general me gusto, la historia y los personajes personalmente me parecieron bien estructurados(con sueños, ilusiones, defectos, y necesidades) ademas de vez en cuando es agradable leer un libro que te hace plantear tu vida, y como nos adaptamos a lo que nos pasa en ella. Es real, muy real no todo fue color de rosa y hubo uno que otro momento donde sentí cierta desconexión del personaje peroooo nada me gusto y punto! Fue una muy agradable lectura y sorpresa.
Me encanto ese final :)
July 26, 2013
4.5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although quite a bit "heavier" than my usual reads, I found myself extremely drawn in. The characters were very well fleshed out and I absolutely adored and was inspired by the main character, Lizzie. She was such a great person and I really wanted the best for her. I wanted her to find peace and love. The secondary characters had significant stories to tell as well and I was very immersed in those subplots too. There was a lot of sadness in the book and not everything was neatly tied up but I appreciated that because it was so true to life. I'm not going to write my own synopsis because I'm not sure I could accurately or adequately describe what the book was about in just a few sentences but if I were to try, I would say that Swimming Upstream is about one young woman's journey to come to terms with her past, navigate her present and figure out what she wants out of her future. I was hoping for a different ending but I won't say why at the risk of spoilers.
Very impressive debut!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although quite a bit "heavier" than my usual reads, I found myself extremely drawn in. The characters were very well fleshed out and I absolutely adored and was inspired by the main character, Lizzie. She was such a great person and I really wanted the best for her. I wanted her to find peace and love. The secondary characters had significant stories to tell as well and I was very immersed in those subplots too. There was a lot of sadness in the book and not everything was neatly tied up but I appreciated that because it was so true to life. I'm not going to write my own synopsis because I'm not sure I could accurately or adequately describe what the book was about in just a few sentences but if I were to try, I would say that Swimming Upstream is about one young woman's journey to come to terms with her past, navigate her present and figure out what she wants out of her future. I was hoping for a different ending but I won't say why at the risk of spoilers.
Very impressive debut!
April 7, 2013
Wow! I started reading this book because I couldn't sleep - 4 hours later I'm finished, because I couldn't put it down.
Lizzie is struggling to make sense of her deeply hidden childhood memories, while trying to maintain stable friendships with unstable people.
The characters are rounded, flawed, and supportive. Zara especially was a wonderfully drawn character that I was really rooting for.
I read this without reading any blurb, I just dived straight in. I downloaded it a while ago so I had no idea of the basics like genre. I couldn't figure out where the story was going, but when I got there is wad truly satisfying, and well worth the fatigue I'm going to feel tomorrow.
A fantastic read.
Lizzie is struggling to make sense of her deeply hidden childhood memories, while trying to maintain stable friendships with unstable people.
The characters are rounded, flawed, and supportive. Zara especially was a wonderfully drawn character that I was really rooting for.
I read this without reading any blurb, I just dived straight in. I downloaded it a while ago so I had no idea of the basics like genre. I couldn't figure out where the story was going, but when I got there is wad truly satisfying, and well worth the fatigue I'm going to feel tomorrow.
A fantastic read.
June 3, 2013
This is an intelligent novel about surviving trauma and working out your own identity in a confusing world. There is lots in here to challenge your ideas about life in general and how you survive the ups and downs. Mainly it is about friendship - leaning on your network of friends, providing support in turn, but also learning a certain amount of self-reliance. Lizzie, the heroine, sets herself on a journey in life, and though she isn't always happy, she begins to figure out a way of thriving. This is not an action-packed novel, more a story about emotion, self-development and relationships (some positive and some destructive). Ruth Mancini leaves you pondering your own situation and how best to navigate the vicissitudes of life.
February 15, 2013
Enjoyable story with good characters and a satisfying ending. I particularly enjoyed the way that the friendships developed.
''Lizzie has begun to achieve all the things she thought she had ever wanted… but realises instead that she is far from happy. Then she steps out into the path of an oncoming car, and her life begins to unravel, setting off a life-changing chain of events. Lizzie leaves her boyfriend and her home and moves to London to pursue her career. There, she attempts to overcome the legacy of her past and find her true direction in life. Little does she realise that her life is about to take another shocking twist… and that the consequences will be enormous.''
''Lizzie has begun to achieve all the things she thought she had ever wanted… but realises instead that she is far from happy. Then she steps out into the path of an oncoming car, and her life begins to unravel, setting off a life-changing chain of events. Lizzie leaves her boyfriend and her home and moves to London to pursue her career. There, she attempts to overcome the legacy of her past and find her true direction in life. Little does she realise that her life is about to take another shocking twist… and that the consequences will be enormous.''
August 1, 2013
I was led to this amazing book via Twitter, and after skimming it I saw that it was witty, fast moving and well written, so I had to buy it right away. I finished reading two nights later, and I can say that this book is heartwarming, intelligently written, and powerful.It did revolve around relationships between men and women, but it really seemed much deeper than a romance or chick lit to me. The author has put several glaring modern social ills and struggles under the magnifying glass, and has given them serious treatment with no candy coated outcomes. One line toward the end, about forgiveness, was profoundly moving to me. And I loved the ending. It was perfect.
May 9, 2014
Just finished reading Swimming Upstream, and am rather sad that it's over. This story was an emotional one for me. Beautifully told. The plot took me to unexpected places. There were three or four places in the book where I gasped out loud.
Mancini is an exceptionally strong writer. Her characters are vivid. One in particular (I don't want to get too specific) reminds me so much of a friend of mine. This story really resonated with me. Looking forward to reading her future work.
Mancini is an exceptionally strong writer. Her characters are vivid. One in particular (I don't want to get too specific) reminds me so much of a friend of mine. This story really resonated with me. Looking forward to reading her future work.
January 8, 2015
I found this book fascinating. It deals with themes of mental illness, domestic violence,betrayal and lost love. The first chapter had me hooked. It was quite the page turner and I loved the way author Ruth Mancini wove the many layers into each well-written character. Not to give out any spoilers, I highly recommend if you love complex characters and unusual situations of choices made: bad or good.
April 24, 2013
While the story begins with a breakup and not a divorce, this book shows the perils of not resolving issues of childhood and gaining a clear sense of self before getting into a permanent committed relationship. It does have quite a bit of dark themes, including death and abuse, but is excellently written.
August 2, 2013
While the author is obviously English and some of the terms are such, the tone and events in the book appeal t any and all people who experience difficulty in their lives. As I learned in my twenties, so many others have so much more difficulty and I really do not. This book reminded me of the same thing. Enjoyed it very much!
January 29, 2015
From the first page to the last, this book was so difficult to put down! There was a wonderful cast of troubled characters. I cared so much about each and everyone of them, and I loved being part of their journey. The story moved quickly and the conversations were so authentic. I felt like I was right there with the gang… I am eagerly looking forward to reading the second book of this series.
May 2, 2013
Free for Kindle from Bookbub. Enjoyed her writing and characters. Good depiction of how circumstance and choice of friends (and their friends) can affect ones life. I would read the sequel if she writes it.
November 11, 2013
Ruth Mancini pulls the reader into Lizzie’s world, a world where she is slowly and irresistibly sucked into her boyfriend’s life style.
Read full review in the November 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the November 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
February 7, 2013
Wonderful book about friendship! So many lessons to be learned.
April 28, 2013
Great book! Not what I was expecting. Almost like a memoir. Very disturbing, but relatable. I got so invested in the characters.
May 21, 2013
I liked the book. I wished her friend made a better choice, but we have all had a friend we wanted better for than they did for themselves.
November 26, 2014
Very hard to put down! And I'm a mess! This was such a roller coaster ! By the end I was sobbing !! It was a great story !! Just in awe right now !
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