Brings to life how abusive family life can affect children
This novel tells the story of Josephine - her family life in Ireland, her move to London and the life she makes there. The tale is told from 2 perspectives: that of Josephine and her daughter Clare.
As the story develops, Josephine's life unravels to reveal the reasons why she fled her family life in Ireland to pursue a new way of life in London. The reader is introduced to the new friends that she makes and the happiness she finds in starting out in her new surroundings - but the abusive family life she endured is always in her mind, threatening to destroy all the positive aspects of her new found freedom.
We're introduced to her husband and children. We see their family life from Clare and Josephine's perspective - some of which is heartwarming but much is disturbing and sometimes difficult reading.
The overwhelming message this novel has left with me is a reminder that, as parents, our actions affect the well-being, confidence and behaviour of our children. Sadly, many children suffer in family situations that date from behaviours and abuse that dates from previous generations.
As the story develops, Josephine's life unravels to reveal the reasons why she fled her family life in Ireland to pursue a new way of life in London. The reader is introduced to the new friends that she makes and the happiness she finds in starting out in her new surroundings - but the abusive family life she endured is always in her mind, threatening to destroy all the positive aspects of her new found freedom.
We're introduced to her husband and children. We see their family life from Clare and Josephine's perspective - some of which is heartwarming but much is disturbing and sometimes difficult reading.
The overwhelming message this novel has left with me is a reminder that, as parents, our actions affect the well-being, confidence and behaviour of our children. Sadly, many children suffer in family situations that date from behaviours and abuse that dates from previous generations.