Her Daughter’s Secret | Lisa Timoney
Her Daughter’s Secret is an intimate portrait of what happens within a toxic and dysfunctional family that feels realistic, moving and authentic.
Lisa Timoney’s story could be the story of any one of us who has experienced grief, tricky family relationships or poor choices in our lives. As a result Her Daughter’s Secret is an affecting, emotional roller-coaster of a read.
The plot is carefully constructed, with ‘Then’ and ‘Now’ gradually revealing the truths behind events, making it gripping.
The reality of difficult decisions
I actually found the story quite enraging because so many of the difficulties that arise need never have happened if only there had been greater honesty amongst the characters.
Told from Bea’s perspective, there’s a real sense of pain, grief and the reality of difficult decisions. I found this aspect of Lisa Timoney’s narrative insightful, humane and sensitive. Because her style is accessible, the story somehow seems to have even greater resonance for the reader.
There are moments in Bea’s life we can all relate to.
Despite everything, a sense of positivity
While there’s a smooth quality to the writing, there’s also a profound depth to the themes in the story. Grief, control and choices of various forms create tension and actions that propel the plot onwards and provide incredible interest and engagement.
It’s fascinating how Her Daughter’s Secret is predicated on such negative concepts yet still manages to imbue the reader with a sense of satisfaction and positivity.
Much of the positivity comes through the growth and development of the characters. Bea is the most consistent, but Joyce, Ewan and Immy illustrate potential for change. On balance the story feels encouraging as well as entertaining.
A cup of tea with a character?
Phoebe’s condition is well researched and seamlessly woven into the story, giving an added dimension that is very satisfying.
But even better is the level of understanding and psychology beneath the surface of Her Daughter’s Secret. There’s much to learn about human behaviour while being entertained.
I loved the light relief through Bea’s interactions with Eddie too, particularly through their natural direct speech, and through Bea’s friendship with Jan.
Indeed, I’d rather like to share a cup of tea and a biscuit with Jan myself. Although she’s a relatively minor character she really does embody the voice of common sense that adds balance to the story.
Her Daughter’s Secret is an engaging, emotional book that might just make readers view those in their own lives differently, and with greater compassion. I very much enjoyed it.
