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A review by mskelley88
The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
"The Things We Cannot Say" is a touching story that intertwines past and present with finesse, delivering moments that tug at your heartstrings without overwhelming you.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the length. The book isn’t horribly long, but it does feel like it could’ve been a bit tighter. Some parts dragged, making it seem longer than it needed to be. And yes, there were a few predictable turns. However, these are minor issues in the grand scheme of things.
The real gem of this novel is the present-day storyline involving Alice. Her journey through life, parenting, and marriage with an autistic child is beautifully and authentically portrayed. Alice's story of balancing the demands of a special needs child with her own life resonated deeply, offering a poignant exploration of the sacrifices and love inherent in parenthood.
One scene from the WWII plotline was incredibly challenging for me to read. As a mom of an infant, it struck a deep chord and was genuinely heartbreaking. This underscores Rimmer's ability to evoke strong emotions through her writing.
In summary, "The Things We Cannot Say" is a heartfelt read that deftly balances dual timelines. It’s a testament to the unspoken bonds that connect us and the enduring power of love. If you’re in the mood for a novel that skillfully blends historical depth with modern-day issues, this one’s worth your time.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the length. The book isn’t horribly long, but it does feel like it could’ve been a bit tighter. Some parts dragged, making it seem longer than it needed to be. And yes, there were a few predictable turns. However, these are minor issues in the grand scheme of things.
The real gem of this novel is the present-day storyline involving Alice. Her journey through life, parenting, and marriage with an autistic child is beautifully and authentically portrayed. Alice's story of balancing the demands of a special needs child with her own life resonated deeply, offering a poignant exploration of the sacrifices and love inherent in parenthood.
One scene from the WWII plotline was incredibly challenging for me to read. As a mom of an infant, it struck a deep chord and was genuinely heartbreaking. This underscores Rimmer's ability to evoke strong emotions through her writing.
In summary, "The Things We Cannot Say" is a heartfelt read that deftly balances dual timelines. It’s a testament to the unspoken bonds that connect us and the enduring power of love. If you’re in the mood for a novel that skillfully blends historical depth with modern-day issues, this one’s worth your time.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Violence, and War