Linked By Love

The First Time Lauren Pailing Died by Alyson Rudd is a fantastic novel about love and loss, friendship and families. It is set in the 1970’s and moves forwards in time.

The novel has a unique storyline with the theme of parallel lives. It is all very cleverly constructed. The characters all revolve around Lauren Pailing, reacting to the events in her lives. They change subtly each time she dies. There is one unifying element that never changes, running at a constant throughout.

There are different points of view given as the reader becomes acquainted with the characters. Their reactions to loss are varied but one thing is sure – loss hurts and keeps on hurting.

There is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to grieve. One must do what one can to travel through it. Others come alongside to help us on our journey through grief.

Guilt may accompany loss. We may feel guilty because of what we did or didn’t do. “One day you will understand that it is not your fault, and one day you will be able to smile again.” We will always wonder if death could have been prevented but the ‘what if’s’ will not do us any good. We should not feel guilty for beginning to live again.

Love runs throughout. Love propels us forwards even when we do not realise it.

The First Time Lauren Pailing Died was a compulsive read. It was something different that captured my attention and imagination. I think it would make a fabulous movie. I found the whole novel engrossing and read it in just two sittings.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON