Reviewed by: Keith Nixon
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Approximate word count: 30-35,000 words
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Author:
Kate Rigby studied psychology although she is no
longer able to work due to ill health. She has been writing for more than
thirty years producing fourteen novels and short stories. Most of her works
have been published over this time.
Description:
It’s June
1999 and Wimbledon is about to get underway. Robina, recently out of a long
term relationship and looking for a new path in life takes a job as the carer
for Gwen, a largely housebound old lady. As Robina learns more about Gwen she
has more questions than answers, in particular what happened to her daughter
Rosemary?
Appraisal:
Kate Rigby
writes with an unconventional style. This is not a complaint, merely an
observation. Some readers will appreciate it, others I guess will not. Thankfully,
I sit in the former camp. Rigby writes with a local vernacular in punchy terms.
It adds layer and depth to the first person narrative.
I’ve
previously reviewed Flamingo Circus,
which was, in effect, a coming of age diary that occurred over several years.
However in Break Point we have quite
a different beast. It is fundamentally an exploration of relationships –
between Robina and a variety of people. Gwen (the eventually overbearing woman
she’s caring for with her own secret), June (the ex-girlfriend we never meet),
Tash (the person who split June and Robina up) and Elliot (her brother).
Finally throw Shari, provocative colleague exploring her sexuality, into the
mix and there’s a slow-burn melting pot of emotions.
Interestingly
the story takes place with the back drop of the Wimbledon tennis tournament.
The author draws parallels between events and the particular game / players on
at the time. As the finals near, the events wind to a crescendo and a neat
little twist.
Overall an
enjoyable read.
Format/Typo Issues:
None to
speak of.
Rating: **** Four Stars
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