I thought this book was brilliant. And if you’re a regular reader of my reviews, you’ll know that I’m hard to please. This is a book about life. Also death, but mainly life.
The story follows the relationship between Jack, the egotistic son of a rock star, and Sarah, a teacher and the daughter of a vicar. Sarah is desperate to have a baby and her fixation on this is destroying her mental health and also her bond with Jack. She goes missing. Meanwhile, a man – the Keeper, grieving for his wife – lives a lonely existence in an old lighthouse. Every day, he sees desperate people on the cliff edge, about to end their own lives. Will Sarah be one of them?
I liked the writing style of this book. It was fresh, thoughtful, easy to read and lyrical without being over-descriptive. The length of the story seemed just right, the pace was good and there were some unexpected twists. There’s a strong sense of place and I could tell how connected the author is to the landscape of the South Downs. Although there were some heavy themes – suicide, grief, illness, abuse – I didn’t find the book at all depressing. It’s a real achievement.
This book is endorsed by Matt Haig. I think if you’re a fan of his work, you’ll like The Light Keeper.
Thank you to the publisher Marylebone House for the advance proof copy. The book will be published on August 15th.
‘lyrical without being over-descriptive’ that makes all the difference! Sometimes, writers try too hard and the book is awful to read! Great review!
Thank you Meggy 🙂
The author is not trying too hard, even though it’s his debut (I think).
My first reaction to you calling the book brilliant was ” if she says the book is brilliant, then that’s something!” I will definitely add it to my tbr list, it does sound like something I would enjoy reading too.
Yes I don’t often give such a glowing review! LOL. I hope you like this book if you do read it ☺
So glad to hear you enjoyed this title. It is coming up soon on my review queue.
I liked it a lot more than I anticipated! Hope you enjoy ☺
Great that this managed to not be depressing, despite such dark themes. Awesome review!
Thanks! It takes a lot to impress me ?
Fantastic review, thank you so much, I’m honoured. It’s my fifth book but my first novel, so there is a sense of trepidation about sending it out into the world. You’ve just made that a lot easier! Thanks.
Thank you, you’re very welcome! I was sent the book somewhat randomly (I’d agreed to review a Marylebone House book without knowing which one) and I was impressed with the style and content of it. I really wanted other readers to know about it and hopefully my review has persuaded some to give it a read. All the best with the launch!
The Light Keeper sounds really great! The author seems to have found the perfect balance in descriptions and tone, the way you describe it.
I found the style original and very readable. I really recommend it! Thanks for your comment ☺
I like how this sounds! Nothing overly done and the story sounds intriguing! Great review, NS! ❤️❤️
Thanks Jee! I think you might like it. ☺?
Great review. This sounds really intriguing and I’m adding it to my pile. Thanks x
Thank you 🙂
Although maybe the subject is not original it’s presented in an intriguing way. If you get round to reading it, I hope you enjoy it.