I actually read this in one sitting which is unusual for me. I've had a couple of health scares myself so was interested to see how Josie LLoyd combined a cancer diagnosis with her character's determination to continue living a normal life. We're introduced to Keira and very quickly into her life as a breast cancer patient whilst being a wife, mum and being the owner of a business. The medical storyline was very well handled as was the varying reactions from friends and family. The main element however was the Running Club with the friendship of women at varying stages of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Moving at times, LLoyd shows how important friendship and shared experiences are when you feel totally alone. I have to admit I cried over the last few pages which is rare for me.
As the story goes on hints are dropped about odd goings on at the business which Keira seems blind to but we're more aware of as a reader. It was a storyline that could have been omitted, at times it seemed unnecessary. But it was to show how important it was to Keira to have that thing that was hers back under her control.
My one small gripe about the book is it starts with Keira with two old school and university friends celebrating New Year, yet once Keira gets her diagnosis neither of the friends make an appearance until well into the story though they keep in touch by phone. Wouldn't you, if you were that close, have dropped everything to be with your friend?
The only Josie Lloyd novel I've read but I will certainly keep an eye out for her next one.
As the story goes on hints are dropped about odd goings on at the business which Keira seems blind to but we're more aware of as a reader. It was a storyline that could have been omitted, at times it seemed unnecessary. But it was to show how important it was to Keira to have that thing that was hers back under her control.
My one small gripe about the book is it starts with Keira with two old school and university friends celebrating New Year, yet once Keira gets her diagnosis neither of the friends make an appearance until well into the story though they keep in touch by phone. Wouldn't you, if you were that close, have dropped everything to be with your friend?
The only Josie Lloyd novel I've read but I will certainly keep an eye out for her next one.