I really loved this book! The dysfunctional family relationships were realistic and emotional and as a reader you become increasingly invested in their struggles.

The Australia/London connection is what really bought it home for me and that ongoing question of where you want to live your life. It’s hard when both places are home and no choice there is going to be the right one.

Either way you’re leaving something or someone behind.

Thank you to Pantera Press, NetGalley and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

📕 MY RATING: BOOK # 77 FOR 2024

Together We Fall Apart by Sophie Matthiesson

Ash’s rating: 4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Goodreads average score: 4.20
Summed Up: A Debut That Comes Together By Falling Apart

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When I saw the cover of Together We Fall Apart, I was picturing a story about flowers 🌸 Surprise! This was not floral related but it sure was a blossoming debut!

This book was described as ‘a story about running away and coming home,’ and that was true in so many ways as it explored social and cultural dynamics with emotion and empathy.

I did get a bit tangled in the timelines (not hard to confuse me with these let’s be honest) but the deep, moving characters and their intricate yet complex relationships felt real and relatable.

A refreshing change from my usual genres, this book was a fabulous pride month read 🌈 that tackled addiction, family, and loss in both heartwarming and heartbreaking ways 💔

Thanks to the lovely folks at Pantera Press for the early access!

Set in current day Australia, MC Clare returns temporarily to Melbourne, after living in London with her wife and child, to be with her terminally ill father. Faced with the dynamics of the situation and the daily impact of her drug addicted brother who lives with her parents, Clare begins to reassess her life and embarks on a painful journey of self discovery.

The author jumps between current day and glimpses of Clare's past. It's an effective way of providing the back story that has led to Clare's discontent. The author maintains strong control in the retelling, each glimpse providing a significant insight into how Clare's pivotal relationships have developed over time. The author has done this with clarity and purpose, only using relevant situations that strengthen the plot.

Overall, the story line is tight, rational and realistic. As a debut novel, the character development is superb. The intricacies of each relationship and situation harmonize perfectly with the plot. The reader is drawn fully into Clare's world and mind.

To say I enjoyed this book is an understatement. It has all the gritty reality of a dysfunctional family that is in the grips of addiction. It's honesty resonates with the reader on a personal level. And it so refreshing to read about real people. I can't wait to read the author's next book!