An interesting read this one- but definitely good. The trend for the literary, poetic, vague first person narrative is a thing now the last couple of years and this book is one like that.
It's a story of a woman's childhood, her growing up, family problems- parents separating, his dad's alcoholism or finding a place to fit in different times and places. I especially enjoyed the London bit, the way she didn't feel like she belonged there but also equally tried to fit into the city and inhabitants.
It does not have a traditional novel structure, but more like parts of life and memories tying up together to form a portrait of a woman, and the things that formed her to be the person she was in the end of this story.
I really enjoyed this read, it's so brave, honest, brushing on big subjects like alcoholism in such a beautiful way. Definitely recommended. I would think this book is one for literary prize judge appetite! So wouldn't be surprised to see this novel nominated.

This is a well written story of a disturbed young adult. It deals sensitively with the issues faced by a teenager from a dysfunctional family who is successful at school and believes her escape to university in London will be the answer to her identity problems. It isn't. She ends up retreating to her grandfather's isolated cottage in Ireland. The story jumps about and the reader needs to stay alert to know whether she is in Durham,London or Ireland at any time. There is no finish to the story and no theme other than this woman's difficulties with life.