About this book
(blurb from Penguin Random House SA)
The anticipated new novel from the worldwide Number One bestselling author behind the Emmyand Golden Globe-winning HBO series Big Little Lies
We’re all so busy, caught up in life’s moments, big and small – The flight attendant working a shift on her birthday. The mother struggling alone with two young children. The newlyweds excited about their tropical honeymoon . The overworked father missing his kid’s big show. The young man returning from his best friend’s funeral. The ER nurse wondering what retirement will bring.
All strangers. All unsuspecting. Each with a life heading in a particular direction – or so they imagine. Because an elderly woman is about to step into each of their paths. In just a few words, she will make a prediction, causing the most ordered of lives to unravel in the most unexpected of ways…
My thoughts
“If free will doesn’t exist, if all your decisions and actions are inevitable, are you still required to apologize for them?”
Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty presents a unique premise: what if you knew the exact date and manner of your death? The book follows multiple points of view, exploring the lives of various characters who have been given this unsettling knowledge. The narrative intricately weaves together their stories, touching on themes of grief, healing, and the interplay between fate and free will.
“Everyone loves a particular version of you, and when that person is gone, that version goes with them.”
Liane Moriarty masterfully crafts a multi-layered drama that is both emotional and thought-provoking.
“You won’t necessarily win against fate, but you should at least put up a fight.”
What I enjoyed:
- Unique Premise: The concept of knowing your death date and how it impacts your life decisions is intriguing and reminiscent of Nikki Erlick’s The Measure.
- Multiple POVs: The story’s multiple perspectives add depth and richness, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of each character’s journey.
- Themes of Grief and Healing: The book beautifully tackles themes of grief and healing, providing food for the soul and spirit.
- Great Story and Writing Style: Moriarty’s writing is engaging, and her ability to weave intricate plots and develop relatable characters is impressive.
- Thought-Provoking: The book prompted me to reflect on life, mortality, and the choices we make, making it a deeply resonant read.
Could have been better, in my opinion….
- Pace Slowed Down: At times, the pace of the book slowed down, causing me to lose focus. However, the intrigue about what would happen next kept me engaged.
- Character Connection: While I enjoyed getting to know the characters, I found Cherry’s chapters less engaging and sometimes frustrating.
- Length and Multiple POVs: The book’s length and numerous POVs can be challenging.
Here One Moment is an emotive, mysterious book that delves into the profound question: what would you do if you knew the date and manner of your death? With its intricately woven plot and characters, the novel is both sad and utterly delightful in places. While the pacing may lag at times, the story’s depth and the exploration of fate versus free will make it a rewarding read.
“They wildly underestimate the likelihood because people have a tendency to put themselves at the center of the universe.”
Thanks to Penguin Random House SA for the opportunity to read this book!
Extract: Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty Penguin Random House South Africa
Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Mystery
About the author:
@roelia_reads #lastnownext update! Here One Moment #LianeMoriarty The Boyfriend #FreidaMcFadden By Any Other Name #JodiPicoult What is on your #lastnownextreads list? All three of these wonderful books are published by @Penguin Random House SA ❤️ #roeliareads #bookrecommendations #readinglist #whattoread ♬ Ready – Official Sound Studio