I read 2 books on holiday (starting on my boyfriends in the last couple of days which I will review when I have finished). The first being Rosamund Lupton's much hyped follow-up to her debut novel Sister - 'Afterwards'.
Afterwards was recommended to me by my boyfriends sister who is part of a book club so I trusted her recommendation that it would a general all-rounder than a cult book favoured by a few individuals.
This book is about a mothers struggle to identify the arsonist who set fire to her children's school resulting in devastating consequences for her family. The narrative of this story is told in a very poignant and distinctive way which without divulging too much about the plot really becomes the basis for the entire story. The book is also about the love, trust and loyalty between the different family members when fingers are pointed and important medical decisions need to be made.
'Afterwards' has elements of a mystery crime novel which are supported by past recollections of the families past life experiences which help the reader to not only understand the characters more but to will them to find the culprit and to survive this terrible ordeal together.
I will definitely read 'Sister' Lupton's debut novel with high expectations after the tremendous 'Afterwards'.
The second book I read and to be honest flew through due to its conversational and very readable style was the much publicised One Day by David Nicholls.
Nicholls' previous novels have passed me by despite his easily recognisable covers but due to the film adaptations recent premier it seemed an obvious choice for my holiday collection allowing me to watch the film on my return.
One Day aptly titled follows the lives of 2 characters on the 15th July every year for almost 20 years. It follows the changes in the characters lives on this day as well the aspirations and ambitions they one day wish to achieve. While their lives change and mature through the years both characters maintain their distinctive personalities from start to finish which both magnetizes and polarizes the characters throughout the years and ultimately leads to the shocking twist which finally cements that One Day as pivotal to their lives.
It is hard to say anymore more about this book as the most enjoyable aspect for me was the all too familiar conversations exchanged between the 2 characters which just have to be enjoyed first hand.
A tale of young love, friendship that stands the test of time and inevitable loss - One Day is initially a natural and comfortable read which lulls you into a false sense of security and I can't wait to see the film!
