If you like contemporary fiction that sweeps you off your feet with romance while tugging at your heartstrings, this is a must-read.
I must confess there’s nothing quite like a good book cry. I find it oddly cathartic to weep over a fictional character, mop myself up, then get on with the day. In this case, though, I had to ditch my natural cynicism, as Emma Grey’s storytelling carries an authenticity that speaks to lived experience. Sure enough, in the acknowledgements I learned she has experienced the kind of loss she explores in this novel.
After falling head over heels, 30-somethings Audrey and Fraser are days away from their wedding when tragedy strikes and their lives are altered. Audrey, a talented composer whose career stalled before it began, struggles to rediscover her creative muse. Fraser, a scientist, is still reeling after his first wife, Maggie, left him. His daughter, Parker, shows early signs of a musical gift to rival Audrey’s, and their relationship helps Fraser begin healing.
Grey boldy tackles the aftermath of the shocking event that precipitates the ‘End’, managing this tricky feat with a deft, assured hand. To reveal more about the sliding-doors moments that follow would spoil the story, but it’s an intriguing ‘what if’ premise.
Moments of levity and humour balance the heart-breaking scenes of loss. Start At The End is a perfect beach or holiday read – just keep the tissues handy.
Reviewed by Maryanne Vagg
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Emma Grey is the author of six books, most recently the two international bestselling novels: The Last Love Note and Pictures of You, which have attracted multiple foreign translation deals and a TV option. Pictures of You won the gold medal in the American Independent Publisher Book Awards and was shortlisted in the ACT Literary Awards.
She lives in Canberra, where her world centres on her three children, loved stepchildren, and stepgrandchildren, writing, photography, and endlessly chasing the aurora australis
Visit Emma Grey’s website here.
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