Jenna Carceles 2008-05-27
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There are two love stories in this book which is mainly set in a small seaside resort in the North of England. The first real love story is between Olivia and her beloved husband Luca. They have been friends since childhood and their friendship develops into a secret teenage romance and then into a beautiful, intense and, in the eyes of their families, unforgivable love. Without giving the story away, Luca's family never forgives Olivia for the fact that he chose her over them, so when he dies, and she goes back to her hometown to be close to his grave, they don't treat her very kindly.
The second love story happens after Luca's death. Oliva begins an affair with his brother, Marc, because they both remind each other of Luca and it's a way of coping with their grief. This 'wrong' affair is contrasted with the real love story of Olivia's life, her relationship with Luca, and the result is poignant and moving without ever becoming maudlin or oversentimental. At the end, we find out why Luca's family is so anti-Olivia and the conclusion is life-affirming.
A lovely, clever, well-written book, with a superficially simple story which actually works on a deeper level as a tribute to real love, with all its joys, wherever it may be found. Very highly recommended.
