Be Kind

A Midwinter Promise by Lulu Taylor is an epic contemporary novel that consumes from the start. The reader glimpses the end from the beginning and the questions arise.

The novel surrounds a family with action set in the present day and from 1980 moving forwards. Running parallel to the main story are the lives of Prince Charles and the very beautiful Princess Diana. A feeling of dread built in my heart as that fateful day in August 1997 approached. It was a time frozen in history. One of those momentous days where you remember exactly what you were doing and how you felt when you heard the dreadful news. This element of the story helps to make the whole novel feel personal and adds realism as we care about the lives of the characters.

There are the difficult themes of depression, self-harm, mental illness and suicidal thoughts. All are sensitively portrayed and the reader feels empathy for the character.

Guilt weighs heavy. If it is not dealt with, it is a millstone that will drag us down.

Secrets from the past need unlocking in the present to enable lives to move forward.

Our heritage is important. We need to preserve it. It is more than just bricks and mortar, there are memories of lives that need to be preserved.

A Midwinter Promise was a powerful read about the complexities that make up family life. Although there were disturbing topics at times, I enjoyed it. I felt a personal connection because of the Princess Diana element that awakened memories in me.

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

JULIA WILSON