Everything was happy and carefree in the Taylor household. Hettie and Jonty enjoyed a privileged life in the Welsh countryside. Then everything changed, arguments and recriminations led to separation and divorce and in a flash, lives and dreams were shattered. As their parents' conflict intensified, Hettie and Jonty were plunged into ever-more desperate situations, struggling with divided loyalties and powerful and conflicting emotions. How can they hold on to a loving relationship with both their parents? What does it take to maintain a bond when someone is trying to tear it apart? As Hettie relives her childhood and adolescence through adult eyes, the truth of her past emerges. What price has she and Jonty paid? Is true love unbreakable? Can love last forever?
This powerful debut novel draws on Pat Barrow's extensive experience as an independent social worker in the family courts working with families enmeshed in high conflict separation and divorce. She has expertise with the many guises of parental conflict and the far-reaching consequences for children who have become the focus of their battles. Her skill is in hearing the voice of the child and understanding their pain and the dilemmas they face; and then promoting practical child centred solutions which encourage parents to put their children first. Now retired, Pat and her partner enjoy the countryside of the Welsh borders and spend a delightful time with their grandchildren.
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3 reviews
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This book is a captivating read highlighting the crucial role parents play in either enabling or disabling children's contact after divorce/separation. It is very emotional and full of unexpected happenings at every turn. I felt like I was either there with the characters, at the heart of their conflict and really feeling their emotions. Despite everything that happens ultimately it is an uplifting and hopeful story. A real page-turner and highly recommended.
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An excellent book and an amazing insight into how children feel. Parents splitting up should read it to help make sure it doesn't affect the children so much. I loved it and couldn't put it down.
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A compelling read, it is a powerful story that draws the reader in. It provides an important insight into the workings of a young person's mind and the emotional impact of family breakdown. Harrowing at times, it is well worth the read and should probably be compulsive reading for all professionals & others who work with and care for children.
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