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A review by thebookishnarwhal
And Then There Was Us by Kern Carter
5.0
This read was a heartfelt journey of forgiveness and family bonds. “And Then There Was Us” by Kern Carter is a poignant coming-of-age novel who delves into the complexities of family relationships, forgiveness, and the enduring impact of loss. Set against the backdrop of a young girl's struggle to reconcile her past, this book weaves a powerful narrative that resonates long after the final page.
Meet Coi. She’s a resilient 18-year-old who has endured years of physical and verbal abuse from her mother. After being cast out of her mother's home at the tender age of fourteen, she finds solace with her father, creating a semblance of peace in their shared existence. But when her mother passes away unexpectedly, the fragile equilibrium shatters, thrusting her into a whirlwind of emotions.
Carter masterfully crafts characters who breathe with authenticity. Coi's internal struggle feels achingly real and her emotional journey is raw and relatable, making her a protagonist readers will root for.
The heart of this novel lies in its exploration of forgiveness. As Coi reconnects with her estranged family, including her younger half-sister Kayla, she grapples with long-held views about her mother. Carter deftly portrays the complexity of forgiveness, showing that it isn't a linear path but a messy, necessary process.
Coi's lucid dreams serve as a powerful narrative device. Through these dream sequences, readers witness her reliving moments of abuse and emotional trauma. These haunting visions force Coi to confront her past, leading to a profound transformation. Carter's portrayal of dreams blurs the line between reality and memory, leaving an indelible mark.
The dynamics within Coi's family are richly layered. Her interactions with others provides insight into the multifaceted nature of love and pain. The gradual unraveling of secrets and hidden emotions adds depth to the narrative. Readers are invited to reflect on our own relationships, our capacity for forgiveness, and the intricate threads that bind families together. This novel is a testament to resilience, hope, and the healing power of understanding. Highly recommended for fans of thought-provoking YA fiction.
The prose is both lyrical and unflinching. Carter captures the nuances of grief, anger, and vulnerability with precision. The pacing keeps readers engaged, and the emotional crescendos hit like a tidal wave. Prepare to be moved. This is a wondrous read that will linger in your heart, serving as a reminder that forgiveness can be both a burden and a balm. Carter's storytelling prowess shines brightly, making this novel an essential addition to any reader's bookshelf.
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Canada, and Tundra Books for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Meet Coi. She’s a resilient 18-year-old who has endured years of physical and verbal abuse from her mother. After being cast out of her mother's home at the tender age of fourteen, she finds solace with her father, creating a semblance of peace in their shared existence. But when her mother passes away unexpectedly, the fragile equilibrium shatters, thrusting her into a whirlwind of emotions.
Carter masterfully crafts characters who breathe with authenticity. Coi's internal struggle feels achingly real and her emotional journey is raw and relatable, making her a protagonist readers will root for.
The heart of this novel lies in its exploration of forgiveness. As Coi reconnects with her estranged family, including her younger half-sister Kayla, she grapples with long-held views about her mother. Carter deftly portrays the complexity of forgiveness, showing that it isn't a linear path but a messy, necessary process.
Coi's lucid dreams serve as a powerful narrative device. Through these dream sequences, readers witness her reliving moments of abuse and emotional trauma. These haunting visions force Coi to confront her past, leading to a profound transformation. Carter's portrayal of dreams blurs the line between reality and memory, leaving an indelible mark.
The dynamics within Coi's family are richly layered. Her interactions with others provides insight into the multifaceted nature of love and pain. The gradual unraveling of secrets and hidden emotions adds depth to the narrative. Readers are invited to reflect on our own relationships, our capacity for forgiveness, and the intricate threads that bind families together. This novel is a testament to resilience, hope, and the healing power of understanding. Highly recommended for fans of thought-provoking YA fiction.
The prose is both lyrical and unflinching. Carter captures the nuances of grief, anger, and vulnerability with precision. The pacing keeps readers engaged, and the emotional crescendos hit like a tidal wave. Prepare to be moved. This is a wondrous read that will linger in your heart, serving as a reminder that forgiveness can be both a burden and a balm. Carter's storytelling prowess shines brightly, making this novel an essential addition to any reader's bookshelf.
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Canada, and Tundra Books for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.