The Hand That First Held Mine, by Maggie O'Farrell

Rarely does a book touch and affect me several weeks after finishing it. This book did just that. The pace at first was admittedly slow, although i was immediately drawn to Lexie, i loved her growth and could really identify with her. Elina on the other hand was harder to connect with, although she did grow on me.

The message of motherhood was strong throughout, and I loved seeing the bond between Lexie and her child, despite initially appearing to be a selfish character she really came into her own as a mother.

I wont give any more away but the climax had me sobbing uncontrollably, thank god i wasnt on the tram! If you have already read it you will know which bit i mean! The wrapping up of the story sat uncomfortably with me for a long time, but in a good way IYSWIM. I had to remind myself it wasnt real - a rare feat for a work of fiction!

An amazing book, one which will not be going to the charity shop. I have read all of O'Farrell's books and this one remains the best.

http://www.mumsnet.com/competitions/my-little-pony-lapland-trip

I loved this book. The characters really drew me in and haunted me even after I had finished. I found the chapters about adjusting to motherhood really rang true.

Compelling. I couldn't put it down and neither could my husband, who has a different taste in literature to me. I was given it as a present when I had my chld - a great idea!

It made me look for other books by the author.

This is just a brilliant book. I thought particularly apt for Mumsnet as well as there is a lot of beautifully written content about being a mum.
The story is excellent: great characters who are extremely believable, well-crafted as it is set between two different times and sets of people; moving and also funny. Really, really recommend it and I am already looking forward to reading more of Maggie O'Farrell's work.