"The Silent Friend" by Alison Stockham is a book about family and belonging - what makes us who we are and how very fragile it can be. It is more of a family drama rather than a thriller, exploring themes such as family bonds, loyalty, friendship, and the consequences of our choices
The book revolves around two women, Louise and Isabelle, as they navigate their lives. It jumps between past and present timelines and is written in the third person from Louise's point of view. I must say that the transitions between timelines were well executed.
Louise lives across from Isabelle and gradually becomes entwined in her life. After Isabelle's husband is arrested, Louise befriends her and provides support during her pregnancy and after the birth. Louise sees Isabelle as her soul mate. After all, they are both lonely, victims of the actions of others, and abandoned by those who were supposed to care.
As their relationship develops, Louise realizes that not all is well in Isabelle's life. Although Isabelle's life may appear perfect on the surface, closer examination reveals cracks. Isabelle is too trusting and weak, but motherhood builds her character. From a weak, dependent woman she transforms into a strong, self-reliant, and independent one.
All Louise ever wanted was a loving family, and Isabelle and her child provide just that. However, one can't escape from their past or misdeeds, as Louise discovers. Louise and Isabelle become good friends, even though Louise wasn't honest with Isabelle. She knows more about Isabelle than she lets on, and her next move will determine the course of their friendship.
The book didn't have the high-octane intensity I expected, but I still enjoyed it. The pace was a bit slow, and there wasn't much suspense, although a couple of twists did catch me by surprise. I appreciated the interactions between the two women and the level of detail that went into them. A good story creates an emotional connection with the characters, and this story certainly achieved that. The protagonists were well-drawn, and I could relate to them. I liked that the characters were portrayed as real people with flaws.
* For more info about the book: "The Silent Friend"
The book revolves around two women, Louise and Isabelle, as they navigate their lives. It jumps between past and present timelines and is written in the third person from Louise's point of view. I must say that the transitions between timelines were well executed.
Louise lives across from Isabelle and gradually becomes entwined in her life. After Isabelle's husband is arrested, Louise befriends her and provides support during her pregnancy and after the birth. Louise sees Isabelle as her soul mate. After all, they are both lonely, victims of the actions of others, and abandoned by those who were supposed to care.
As their relationship develops, Louise realizes that not all is well in Isabelle's life. Although Isabelle's life may appear perfect on the surface, closer examination reveals cracks. Isabelle is too trusting and weak, but motherhood builds her character. From a weak, dependent woman she transforms into a strong, self-reliant, and independent one.
All Louise ever wanted was a loving family, and Isabelle and her child provide just that. However, one can't escape from their past or misdeeds, as Louise discovers. Louise and Isabelle become good friends, even though Louise wasn't honest with Isabelle. She knows more about Isabelle than she lets on, and her next move will determine the course of their friendship.
The book didn't have the high-octane intensity I expected, but I still enjoyed it. The pace was a bit slow, and there wasn't much suspense, although a couple of twists did catch me by surprise. I appreciated the interactions between the two women and the level of detail that went into them. A good story creates an emotional connection with the characters, and this story certainly achieved that. The protagonists were well-drawn, and I could relate to them. I liked that the characters were portrayed as real people with flaws.
Initially, I didn't like Louise and thought that Isabelle was too naive. However, as the story unfolded and their characters developed, I grew to care more about them. Louise had an unloving childhood, which doesn't excuse her behavior, but I liked that she eventually took responsibility for her actions. The author did a great job of depicting her redemption.
This is a story of hardship, choices (both good and bad), guilt, and love. Louise's journey is one of broken dreams, second chances, acceptance, and redemption. One valuable message to take from the book is that home is where the heart is. A tighter plot would have improved the book overall, but I still found it a worthwhile read and would recommend it. 4/5 stars.
* For more info about the book: "The Silent Friend"
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