Never Too Old

One Lucky Summer by Jenny Oliver is a powerful contemporary novel about overcoming the past.

Childhood friends meet again after many years. As they explore old haunts, the past memories come flooding back. Some have been imprisoned by the past. They need to face it, deal with it and move forwards into the future.

We witness that fears we had as children will remain as we grow older unless we change our outlook or our behaviour. We see a character afraid to love and who therefore keeps others at arm’s length.

Actions of parents impact their children for life. There was an event in childhood which looms large in the lives of three adults even now.

The characters were well drawn and realistic. I loved the young girl who was wise beyond her years, full of knowledge and life.

You are never too old to have a new beginning and to put events of the past behind you.

One Lucky Summer was a powerful read that I thoroughly enjoyed and read in just one sitting.

I received a free copy from Harper Collins via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON