NEW RELEASE
Going Back - Rachael English (2014)
Twenty-year-old Elizabeth Kelly spends the summer of 1988 in Boston together with some of her friends from college. While she's enjoying a fun life in America, Elizabeth has her family and long-term boyfriend Liam waiting for her in Ireland, so she will be returning home as soon as her visa expires. However, she didn't plan on meeting the charming Danny Esposito who will change her time in Boston completely. Now, 20 years later, Elizabeth's daughter Jenny is following in her mother's footsteps by going to Boston for the summer. But when something unexpected happens, Elizabeth suddenly finds herself on her way to Boston as well; a visit which brings back all of her memories from that summer of '88. Going Back turned out to be exactly what I was expecting when I first laid eyes on the novel: a romantic, nostalgic and enjoyable tale with a fascinating Irish touch. The story started off quite slow-paced and it did take me a while to really get to know the characters and be taken in by the story. I warmed to Elizabeth rather easily, probably because I recognised bits of myself in her and could relate to her. She's rather shy and cautious and really struggling with her emotions and the feeling that she has to do what is expected of her instead of just following her heart. I really enjoyed seeing Elizabeth as both a teenager and a grown-up and experiencing the changes in her and how her decisions in life shaped her. I specifically enjoyed the romantic feel of the story; the idea of finding someone you fall head over heels in love with, the struggles that come with it... This aspect of the novel was strong and convincing and these feelings made the reading experience even more of a thoroughly enjoyable and emotional ride. Rachael English's debut novel certainly did not disappoint. Her detailed and sharp writing style was enjoyable to read and I expect I will pick up more of her work in the future. Going Back is an enjoyable, romantic and nostalgic women's fiction read; a captivating story about love, friendship, and following your heart. (JoH)
Going Back, the debut novel by Irish radio presenter Rachael English, is a story about difficult decisions and lifelong consequences. The summary says: "In June 1988, Elizabeth Kelly's parents think she belongs at home in Ireland. Her boyfriend is certain of it. Unwilling to settle down just yet, she decides to spend the summer in Boston with her college friends. But the next four months change all of them, especially Elizabeth. Quiet and dutiful at home, she surprises herself and everyone else by falling for Danny Esposito, a restless charmer with a troublesome family. More than 20 years later with opportunities in Ireland scarce once again, a new generation looks to America, awakening memories of a golden summer for their parents. When a crisis occurs, Elizabeth returns to Boston where she is drawn back into the life she once lived. But will she be able to reconcile the dreams of her 20-year-old self with the woman she has become?"