All things Sally Hepworth
Originally this week I was going to do a review of one of Sally Hepworth’s books but I have read a few of her books recently so take this as an overall review, and a resounding recommendation to check out anything written by Sally Hepworth. One of the things I really enjoy about these books is the really relatable characters. It could be that I am of a similar age to Sally, but I can see myself in so many aspects of the lives of these characters. Maybe it is the mum-life commentary that I am relating to?
First up this week we have The Things We Keep. I couldn’t put this one down. The novel follows Anna Forster, a young woman in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, who finds herself in a residential care home where she meets Luke, a fellow resident in a similar situation. Hepworth approaches the sensitive subject of early-onset Alzheimer’s with remarkable tenderness and insight, presenting a story that is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.
The beauty of this novel lies in its character depth and the gentle exploration of the moments that make life worth clinging to, even when memory fails. Hepworth doesn't shy away from the cruel reality of dementia, yet she manages to find a narrative that is as much about the persistence of love and dignity as it is about the tragedy of loss. Through the parallel stories of Anna and Eve, a widow and mother who is the new cook at the care home, Hepworth examines the different forms of love and the things we do to keep hold of those we cherish.
What sets this book apart is its refusal to succumb to despair, despite the inevitable challenges its characters face. It’s a testament to the enduring power of love and a reminder that there are always moments of joy and meaning to be found, even in the darkest of times. Sally Hepworth’s writing is accessible and deeply human, a combination that makes The Things We Keep worthy of reading.
Next up we have The Soulmate. This is one of Hepworth’s more well-known books. The book introduces us to Gabe and Pippa, and their seemingly perfect marriage, only to peel back layers of secrets that question the very foundation of their bond. The Soulmate is a captivating novel that delves into the intricacies of intimate relationships, presenting a suspenseful tale that explores the concept of a soulmate in a fresh way.
The storytelling is effortlessly engaging, masterfully weaving together threads of mystery, romance, and psychological insight. There is something for everyone in this book! The narrative is smart and it kept me guessing, with twists that challenge our perceptions of love and loyalty. If you love a twisty read, this one is for you.
Finally this week, we have a tear jerker - The Mother’s Promise. It feels like I haven’t recommended a book to make you cry in awhile, so here you go! In this book, Sally Hepworth presents a profoundly emotional narrative that delves into the love of a single mother and the lengths to which she will go to protect her child. The story centres around Alice and her daughter, Zoe, who has lived a life marked by intense social anxiety. Alice is diagnosed with a serious illness and this brings their quiet existence to a jarring crossroads, exposing the vulnerabilities of their small family unit.
Hepworth’s portrayal of Alice is raw and genuine, capturing the visceral fear of a mother faced with the prospect of leaving her child unprepared for the world. The strength of this novel lies in its characters, each meticulously crafted with their own flaws and struggles, from the nurse who has her own history to the social worker whose professional detachment is tested.
The narrative unfolds with a grace that is characteristic of Hepworth’s writing style, balancing the stark realities of illness with moments of beauty and connection. The book does not shy away from difficult topics but rather embraces them, depicting the resiliency of the human spirit and the power of promises made and kept.
The Mother’s Promise is a testament to the bonds of motherhood and the unspoken ties that connect us. It’s a tear-jerker, yes, but also a celebration of the enduring strength found in a mother’s love and the unexpected kindness of others. Sally Hepworth has once again crafted a story that is not only touching but also deeply resonant, reminding us of the courage that often goes unseen in the daily lives of ordinary people.
This year I have also read The Younger Wife, The Family Next Door and The Mother in Law, all by Hepworth. I enjoyed them all!! I have her latest book, Darling Girls in the (very tall) TBR stack which is next to my bed, so look out for that review soon. No doubt that will be another recommended read (no pressure Darling Girls). Hepworth is now an automatic read for anything she ever writes because life is too short to read bad books.