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Title:
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Water |
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Authors:
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Boyne, John |
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Genre:
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Fiction |
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Pages:
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176 |
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Year:
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2023 |
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Language:
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English |
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Description:
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Willow Hale or Vanessa Carvin as she was previously known, has left her high-profile life in Dublin, opting to live on a small island off the coast of Galway, a literal and metaphorical separation from her ex-husband and the scandal he is mired in. Willow might be able to escape notoriety, but she can't escape from needing to confront her past and her role in what played out. With its beautifully drawn characters and its sensitive reflection on guilt and blame, choices and consequences, this is a story with gravitas, concisely presented.
Comments from BDS Reviewers:"For such a little book, it contains a very big story."
"Exceptionally well-written; spare and direct."
"Willow's development as a woman is satisfying and credible as she overcomes her trauma."
"The people are beautifully and sympathetically drawn "” a credible, wide range of characters."
"An ideal book for discussion with themes of compassion, guilt, shame and trauma."
"An uncomfortable and confronting read that throws a harsh light on the all-too-frequent abuse of young people."
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Categories:
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Fiction, Community, Contemporary, Gender Issues, Grief/loss, Relationships, Religion, Social commentary/perspectives, Ireland, Content may disturb, Just Added, 2026 Titles |
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Reviews
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By: FEILD 006
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2025-06-25 12:17:55 |
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We all loved this book - a cleverly woven story. Looking forward to reading the next three. |
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By: AUCK 063
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2025-04-11 20:28:00 |
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Overall, the group really enjoyed this book and in particular the quality of the writing - which was described as exquisite, beautiful, easy to read and subtle, all at the same time. So much was said in a few words at times, but the language never sensationalised the issues. A few in the group found that the story lacked credibility at some points - particularly around Willow’s (Vanessa’s) conversations with her daughter and other key people on the island. The most discussion and interesting speculation in the group centred on what Willow actually knew, and when. |
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By: TAUR 064
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2025-03-06 10:13:48 |
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All liked the book, beautifully written and lots to think about. |
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