The author writes with an unselfconscious brutal honesty. This is an intense forensic exploration of a dysfunctional family. I was totally enthralled and appalled and couldn't put the book down until I found out what happened to Lily and her siblings. I was reminded of Flowers In The Attic (the Virginia Andrews classic, not the film) but this is the truest evocation of lingering trauma I have ever read.
This bildungsroman is boldly written, at times shocking, creating an emotional rollercoaster of anger and pity. Compelling, visceral and immediate: an unconditional masterpiece.

Geraniums tells the story of a life at the hands of narcissistic and abusive family. Lily is an amazingly written character and her story kept me on my toes wondering how/if she could ever escape the cruelties of M and her father.
One of my favourite reads of the year so far and a five star book in my opinion. I can’t wait to read whatever Marlene Hauser writes next!

Books like this make me realise again why I love reading, totally enjoyable with no hassles attached, loved it
Recommend

A slow burner that did increase in pace slightly but was still slow in pace. Well written with an engaging storyline and well developed characters that were relatable and likeable. I enjoyed it.

Rounding up to three stars

For me this felt like a slow starter, that never quite lived up to what I'd hoped from the book.
Quite a few memorable characters, and a great central charcter in Lily.