It would be easy for this to present as a dark, unnerving tale of how people struggle to deal with disturbing life traumas. But thanks to a finely judged balance between good storytelling and some well modulated humour this novel becomes refreshingly uplifting. That’s not to say that the issues dealt with in the book are uplifting, far from it, but the author has decided to focus on a more positive attitude and look at desirable outcomes rather than labouring the negative and attributing blame.
We know at the start of the book that Meredith hasn’t left her home for 1,214 days. We don’t know why. Bit by bit Meredith’s story unfolds. But the novel is not just about somebody’s past, it’s about how they work towards a brighter future.
Meredith is a delightful character. I warmed to her straight away. Her penchant for jigsaws, her delightful cat, Fred, her routines and the knowledge that she has a loyal best friend cement the impression that she is a good person who is dealing with some heavy crap. She doesn’t shy away from the fact that she has become a recluse. She doesn’t appear to feel sorry for herself either and given what happened to her you could forgive her if she did. Instead she tries to make the very best she can out of a not so great situation. However there’s a lot more to the story than that!
Family dynamics are also explored in terms of sibling relationships. Meredith has a sister Fiona and there’s quite a story there. The two sisters’ mother also has her own history that impact on the lives of her children.
There are some other delightful characters in the book. Meredith’s friend, Sophie, you want to hug her for how steadfast she has remained for her best friend. Tom, who is volunteering for a charity to befriend people living in isolation, optimistically supportive and so receptive to Meredith’s baking! And Meredith’s online friend, Celeste, who turns out to be another link in Meredith‘s chain of support, although Celeste herself has issues to deal with.
It reminded me of books like Eleanor Oliphant and some of Ruth Hogan’s books, I don’t want to divulge too much of what ultimately happens. It’s an emotional book and there are elements of it that are really quite heartbreaking. But there is hope. And there is redemption.
I thought it was well written with an evenly paced narrative encouraging the reader to read on and involve themselves in Meredith‘s life. It’s keenly plotted, and although sometimes you think you know where it’s headed it doesn’t always work out that way. Much like life itself.
My thanks to Jennifer Breslin at Michael Joseph books for a gifted proof. I also enjoyed the shortbread but I doubt it was a patch on Meredith’s baking! I can see this book having a wide appeal, particularly in the times that we’re living in currently.
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