In early August I spent a few days in Cornwall with my family & close friends, and whilst there, finished up reading ‘Yesteryear’ faster than anticipated.
This left me without a book for 2 whole days – which isn’t a position I am at all comfortable in. It lead me to seeking out a bookstore in Newquay, a town close to where we were staying. I found Clemo’s Books – a beautiful quaint independent bookstore – the type you may picture on a British high-street, but so often can’t find these days. I bought a few books. The one I was most drawn to from the blurb was ‘Wrecked’ by Catherine Newman.
At this moment, I had not even one thought of starting a Book Club (true: I had thought about starting one last yr but…but…I am referring to in this moment).
I read another short book I had picked up, got back from Cornwall.
The next day, freshly back at home (not so fresh on the sleep front) I started The Downward Spine. Leaning into my gut as I always do, I knew I would start TDS Book Club with a somewhat ‘not-too-much-happens’, intimate, character filled novel. I hadn’t realised at the time that ‘Wrecked’ is part of a mini series by Catherine Newman, which – if I had – maybe I wouldn’t have started with this, however – imo it does still work well as a stand alone novel. It also did feel somehow serendipitous to have bought this fitting book whilst in that lovely store, with no plans for TDS.
This turned out to be a very enjoyable read.
With more humour than I anticipated, I had numerous laugh-out-loud moments – most of which were when I was reading in bed, to the delight & startle of my husband (13 years in, I still find it weird using the word ‘husband’ – anyone else??)
I found a level of familiarity with the main character, Rocky/Rachel. I had moments agreeing with her wholeheartedly and could easily picture conversations with her. She has wit, humour – and the family interactions feel immensely cosy & intimate. Almost as if you are a fly on the wall at times, delighting in being in their auras. It feels personal & cosy – with this in mind, I imagine it would make for a great autumn/fall read, in the way I feel of Elizabeth Strout’s novels.
At points (to me) the characters felt somewhat too perfect in their imperfections (if that makes any sense at all)…I particularly felt this of Willa.
Regardless of this, each character had relatability, connection & a deepness that made them feel ‘real’.
In not wishing to give anything away in case you’re reading it, I will just leave my thoughts on the book by stating – I loved the ending.
If you are reading ‘Wrecked’ or have finished reading it: what did you think? Did you enjoy it? How did you feel about the characters, story, ending? Would be great to hear your opinions & start some chats in the comments here.
Next up for TDS Book Club: Cherry Baby by Rainbow Rosewell
