Item: The Light in the Hallway
Rating: 5.00
Author: bookanonjeff

by Amanda Prowse

From the bestselling author of The Girl in the Corner comes the moving story of a man whose life is changed in an instant. How do you start again when you lose the only love you’ve ever known?

When Nick’s wife Kerry falls ill and dies, he realises for the first time how fragile his happiness has always been, and how much he’s been taking his good life and wonderful family for granted. Now, he suddenly finds himself navigating parenthood alone, unsure how to deal with his own grief, let alone that of his teenage son, Olly.

In the depths of his heartbreak, Nick must find a way to navigate life that pleases his son, his in-laws, his family and his friends—while honouring what Kerry meant to them all. But when it comes to his own emotions, Nick doesn’t know where to begin. Kerry was his childhood sweetheart—but was she really the only one who could ever make him happy?

And in the aftermath of tragedy, can Nick and his son find themselves again?

Sad Yet Hopeful - And With Sequel Potential. Up front: This book has moments that can be *extremely* depressing. But here's the thing - Prowse does an excellent job of using those moments to explore real world emotions very well. And then she uses the story she creates here to restore a bit of hope to those who are going through similarly depressing phases of life. And along the way we find a solid story of a man rebuilding his life at a time he never thought he'd have to while also getting the story of one pivotal summer many years ago. This was my first of Prowse's books, and it won't be my last. (Particularly if we get that sequel, Shirley. ;) ) Very much recommended.

The Light in the Hallway

by Amanda Prowse

Reviewed by Jeff Sexton on Nov 17, 2019

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