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bectoria's review
3.0
3 and 1/2. I love Catherine Alliott’s scatty, middle-aged heroines and generational comedies. Each book usually has a darker twist or devastating moment and sometimes it startles me out of the story. This time, that moment was right at the start and I had trouble getting a feel for the tone - my problem I think.
bananatricky's review
4.0
Lucy Palmer had it all. A successful career writing cosy mysteries, a theatre-critic husband, a large house in a desirable area of London and two well-adjusted children. But behind the facade lies something sinister, jealousy, controlling behaviour, multiple affairs, psychological abuse, threats and fear.
Lucy's 80+ parents are no longer coping alone, drinking too much and not looking after themselves properly, something needs to be done.
Then Lucy's husband Michael dies suddenly and everything changes.
I fear I have made this sound gloomy, and it really isn't. Sure, some glimpses into Lucy's life feel a little close to the bone, but despite everything Lucy has a loving sister, parents, children, and friends. Her husband and his snobby friends might have looked down on her novels but they paid the bills on the house Michael bought with an inheritance.
I really enjoyed this, I didn't realise I had read and enjoyed another of Catherine Alliott's books before, that book was very different, albeit those characters also seemed to live in lovely, lovely houses LOL.
Thoroughly enjoyable and I could have carried on reading for 100s of pages more.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Lucy's 80+ parents are no longer coping alone, drinking too much and not looking after themselves properly, something needs to be done.
Then Lucy's husband Michael dies suddenly and everything changes.
I fear I have made this sound gloomy, and it really isn't. Sure, some glimpses into Lucy's life feel a little close to the bone, but despite everything Lucy has a loving sister, parents, children, and friends. Her husband and his snobby friends might have looked down on her novels but they paid the bills on the house Michael bought with an inheritance.
I really enjoyed this, I didn't realise I had read and enjoyed another of Catherine Alliott's books before, that book was very different, albeit those characters also seemed to live in lovely, lovely houses LOL.
Thoroughly enjoyable and I could have carried on reading for 100s of pages more.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
amberlyswords's review
2.0
This book was okay and I like writing style also I found the paced of plot to be well write. I dont like the flashbacks and it was dull. The cover of book was okay and the characters were okay but they nedded be flash out more.
lucyp747d4's review
4.0
I’d like to thank Sriya from Michael Joseph for contacting me to take part in this blog tour. I have never read anything by Catherine Alliot before so I was excited to discover a new author.
The story is told entirely from Lucy’s point of view as she comes to terms with the end of her marriage and deciding what she wants to do next. I hadn’t expected the story to start quite as dark as it did and I was shocked to of learnt that not only had Lucy endured so much mental abuse but she had put up with it for so long! Some would argue that she should of walked away years ago but as I learnt more about her marriage I could see why it wasn’t so easy for Lucy. Michael’s behaviour was disgusting and hard to read at times but it was his revenge that was the worst. He was manipulative and calculative in his actions and I can understand Lucy’s fear for what might happen if she tried to leave.
Lucy was a very warm and friendly main character. She clearly had a lot of love for her children and I loved the relationship she had with them. Imo and Ned were brilliant and had inherited their mothers compassion and kindness. They felt like a strong unit that had suffered for years but kept each other going, there was no resentment or hatred within their circle.
Whilst the start of the story dealt with some heavy topics, as the story progressed the clouds started to part and the sunshine shone through, in the form of Lucy’s parents! I found myself giggling at their funny ways, raucous parties and candid nature. Their neighbours were very funny and they just reminded me of a group of teenagers! I also appreciated the quieter moments where Lucy’s parents showed their appreciation for her help. It must of been hard for them to lose some of that independence and accept that whilst they were capable of looking after themselves they did need someone to give them a helping hand.
As the story progresses we see Lucy faced with further troubles from her past and this gave the story another layer that I hadn’t expected. I actually didn’t need the romance with Dan or Josh, it felt a little much for me. I was more interested in Lucy’s life as a free woman, away from the troubles of her marriage and finally enjoying her life.
This book explores that dark side of marriage and the ripple effect it has on the whole family. It shows how a poison can seep into the cracks without you realising but also how through solidarity and strength you can find a light at the end.
The story is told entirely from Lucy’s point of view as she comes to terms with the end of her marriage and deciding what she wants to do next. I hadn’t expected the story to start quite as dark as it did and I was shocked to of learnt that not only had Lucy endured so much mental abuse but she had put up with it for so long! Some would argue that she should of walked away years ago but as I learnt more about her marriage I could see why it wasn’t so easy for Lucy. Michael’s behaviour was disgusting and hard to read at times but it was his revenge that was the worst. He was manipulative and calculative in his actions and I can understand Lucy’s fear for what might happen if she tried to leave.
Lucy was a very warm and friendly main character. She clearly had a lot of love for her children and I loved the relationship she had with them. Imo and Ned were brilliant and had inherited their mothers compassion and kindness. They felt like a strong unit that had suffered for years but kept each other going, there was no resentment or hatred within their circle.
Whilst the start of the story dealt with some heavy topics, as the story progressed the clouds started to part and the sunshine shone through, in the form of Lucy’s parents! I found myself giggling at their funny ways, raucous parties and candid nature. Their neighbours were very funny and they just reminded me of a group of teenagers! I also appreciated the quieter moments where Lucy’s parents showed their appreciation for her help. It must of been hard for them to lose some of that independence and accept that whilst they were capable of looking after themselves they did need someone to give them a helping hand.
As the story progresses we see Lucy faced with further troubles from her past and this gave the story another layer that I hadn’t expected. I actually didn’t need the romance with Dan or Josh, it felt a little much for me. I was more interested in Lucy’s life as a free woman, away from the troubles of her marriage and finally enjoying her life.
This book explores that dark side of marriage and the ripple effect it has on the whole family. It shows how a poison can seep into the cracks without you realising but also how through solidarity and strength you can find a light at the end.
fleaing's review
4.0
Rounded up from 3.5 stars.
It really is true that you just don’t know what is going on ‘Behind Closed Doors’ and this book certainly explores this topic wonderfully well.
I wouldn’t say this is a fast paced read but it was definitely a pleasant read even despite some of the subjects such as domestic abuse. As we learn more about Lucy’s life and exactly what happened during her marriage to Michael it was heartbreaking to read yet I felt like the author handled it so well and really captured just what life was like for Lucy both during the marriage and afterwards with all the emotions and confusion she felt.
This story is about learning to move on with life after a very difficult situation and finding what makes you happy. We experience this all with Lucy as she questions what’s best for her when it comes to where she lives and who she wants to date.
With some heavy subjects addressed please do not think that it is all heartbreaking as what really made this book for me were Lucy’s parents. Lucy goes to live with her elderly parents to look after them and at times it was like she was living with teenagers…they were absolutely hilarious and I think the author did a wonderful job at bringing them to life and really conveying that feeling that many elderly people feel, refusing to give up and not asking for help. The scenes with them really made me chuckle!
Overall this was such a lovely read about how to find your way in life after hiding the real you for so long.
It really is true that you just don’t know what is going on ‘Behind Closed Doors’ and this book certainly explores this topic wonderfully well.
I wouldn’t say this is a fast paced read but it was definitely a pleasant read even despite some of the subjects such as domestic abuse. As we learn more about Lucy’s life and exactly what happened during her marriage to Michael it was heartbreaking to read yet I felt like the author handled it so well and really captured just what life was like for Lucy both during the marriage and afterwards with all the emotions and confusion she felt.
This story is about learning to move on with life after a very difficult situation and finding what makes you happy. We experience this all with Lucy as she questions what’s best for her when it comes to where she lives and who she wants to date.
With some heavy subjects addressed please do not think that it is all heartbreaking as what really made this book for me were Lucy’s parents. Lucy goes to live with her elderly parents to look after them and at times it was like she was living with teenagers…they were absolutely hilarious and I think the author did a wonderful job at bringing them to life and really conveying that feeling that many elderly people feel, refusing to give up and not asking for help. The scenes with them really made me chuckle!
Overall this was such a lovely read about how to find your way in life after hiding the real you for so long.
amothersmusings1's review
4.0
Having not read anything by Catherine Alliott before but heard she writes engaging emotional women’s fiction, I was over the moon to be invited on the book tour for her latest novel “Behind Closed Doors”.
“From the outside, anyone would think that Lucy Palmer has it all, loving children, a dashing husband and a gorgeous home. But when her marriage to Michael comes to an abrupt and unexpected end, her life is turned upside down in a flash. As the truth of her marriage threatens to surface, Lucy seizes the opportunity to swap her house in London - and the stories it hides - for a rural escape to her parents' farmhouse in the Chilterns. With her parents growing older disgracefully, she can hardly keep up with their social life - especially when it throws her into the path of an old flame. Coming face-to-face with her mistakes, Lucy is forced to confront the secrets she's been keeping from herself and those she loves.”
Although Lucy and her parents are not your average family next door, being more upper class in their activities, I was still able to relate to a lot of the story involving her parents, Henry and Cecily. Having elderly parents myself of the same age, I recognised the out of date fridge and cupboard contents, their reluctance to have help, the ignoring of small health issues and the denial of their fast approaching old age. It gave me a huge amount of encouragement knowing other daughters/sons have similar issues and I found myself agreeing and nodding my head at a lot of went on between them.
When Lucy’s marriage came to an end, I could sense her immediate feelings on not knowing how to react. What she did (or didn’t do) is a thought provoking and much debatable subject and I have to admit I was totally on her side.
The story was narrated in the first person by Lucy. She also reveals events in her marriage and earlier life which blended in seamlessly with the story, allowing you to build a full picture of why she is the woman she is now. I particularly liked how after twenty eight years of married life and two successful grown up children she managed to return to the person she was before and I was with her every emotional step as she shed her skin from the last few years.
“Behind Closed Doors” is a heartwarming and engaging story focusing on domestic abuse, aging parents, starting over and dealing with emotions that can make or break your world. Funny at times but still handling the delicate subject matters with empathy and warmth and I’d be happy to read the previous books this author has written.
Catherine Alliott has sold over two million bestselling novels worldwide and has been translated into eighteen languages. “Behind Closed Doors” is her 17th novel and is a perfect Mother’s Day read. You can read more about this author and book here - https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/312/312269/behind-closed-doors/9780241384718.html
Thank you to Sriya Varadharajan for inviting me on the #booktour and for my copy of the book in return for an honest review.
“From the outside, anyone would think that Lucy Palmer has it all, loving children, a dashing husband and a gorgeous home. But when her marriage to Michael comes to an abrupt and unexpected end, her life is turned upside down in a flash. As the truth of her marriage threatens to surface, Lucy seizes the opportunity to swap her house in London - and the stories it hides - for a rural escape to her parents' farmhouse in the Chilterns. With her parents growing older disgracefully, she can hardly keep up with their social life - especially when it throws her into the path of an old flame. Coming face-to-face with her mistakes, Lucy is forced to confront the secrets she's been keeping from herself and those she loves.”
Although Lucy and her parents are not your average family next door, being more upper class in their activities, I was still able to relate to a lot of the story involving her parents, Henry and Cecily. Having elderly parents myself of the same age, I recognised the out of date fridge and cupboard contents, their reluctance to have help, the ignoring of small health issues and the denial of their fast approaching old age. It gave me a huge amount of encouragement knowing other daughters/sons have similar issues and I found myself agreeing and nodding my head at a lot of went on between them.
When Lucy’s marriage came to an end, I could sense her immediate feelings on not knowing how to react. What she did (or didn’t do) is a thought provoking and much debatable subject and I have to admit I was totally on her side.
The story was narrated in the first person by Lucy. She also reveals events in her marriage and earlier life which blended in seamlessly with the story, allowing you to build a full picture of why she is the woman she is now. I particularly liked how after twenty eight years of married life and two successful grown up children she managed to return to the person she was before and I was with her every emotional step as she shed her skin from the last few years.
“Behind Closed Doors” is a heartwarming and engaging story focusing on domestic abuse, aging parents, starting over and dealing with emotions that can make or break your world. Funny at times but still handling the delicate subject matters with empathy and warmth and I’d be happy to read the previous books this author has written.
Catherine Alliott has sold over two million bestselling novels worldwide and has been translated into eighteen languages. “Behind Closed Doors” is her 17th novel and is a perfect Mother’s Day read. You can read more about this author and book here - https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/312/312269/behind-closed-doors/9780241384718.html
Thank you to Sriya Varadharajan for inviting me on the #booktour and for my copy of the book in return for an honest review.
welshgirlreads's review
4.0
Behind Closed Doors is told through the narrative of the protagonist Lucy, an author, wife and mother who suddenly and unexpectedly is widowed. After the funeral she packs up her life in London, rents her house out and moves to live with her elderly parents in Oxfordshire, who are in denial but have been struggling to function by themselves. Lucy starts to move on, find herself again and pave a new life, but is she just running away from her old life, her grief or is she hiding something?
The books handled some difficult and delicate subjects such as domestic abuse, grief, caring for elderly parents and the emotional toll of starting over again. However there were also moments that had me laughing out loud, especially at Lucy’s parents Henry and Cecily who were some colourful and crazy characters to say the least! Some parts were thought provoking and I liked the fact it provided both light and dark moments and showed a vast overview on grief and how it varies from person to person. It also served as a reminder that you never really know what happens behind someone’s front door and despite a situation looking rosy on the outside, it can sometimes be completely different once that door is closed to the outside world.
Some parts were a bit slow for my liking but the moments that had you quizzing or laughing more than made up for that and actually made it more of an enjoyable read as there were many ‘normal’ moments in between the craziness.
I’ve not read a Catherine Alliott book before but after reading Behind Closed Doors, I’ll definitely be picking up more of her works!
Thanks so much to Sriya at @michaeljbooks for inviting me to take part in the blog tour and for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
The books handled some difficult and delicate subjects such as domestic abuse, grief, caring for elderly parents and the emotional toll of starting over again. However there were also moments that had me laughing out loud, especially at Lucy’s parents Henry and Cecily who were some colourful and crazy characters to say the least! Some parts were thought provoking and I liked the fact it provided both light and dark moments and showed a vast overview on grief and how it varies from person to person. It also served as a reminder that you never really know what happens behind someone’s front door and despite a situation looking rosy on the outside, it can sometimes be completely different once that door is closed to the outside world.
Some parts were a bit slow for my liking but the moments that had you quizzing or laughing more than made up for that and actually made it more of an enjoyable read as there were many ‘normal’ moments in between the craziness.
I’ve not read a Catherine Alliott book before but after reading Behind Closed Doors, I’ll definitely be picking up more of her works!
Thanks so much to Sriya at @michaeljbooks for inviting me to take part in the blog tour and for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
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