I picked up ‘A Family Matter’ by Claire Lynch in one of my recent visits to an independent bookshop. This treat came home with me from ‘Heron Books’ in Clifton (this is also a happy coincidence as one of the main characters in this book is called Heron). And, as I purchased it, the booksellers only had good things to say about the author and the book. Since then, it has also won gold prize at the Nero Book Awards, which I think it very well-deserved.
‘A Family Matter’ is told in a dual timeline. In 2023, we meet Heron and his daughter Maggie as they deal with a recent health diagnosis, that also makes them face the past. And we are also in 1983, as we learn about Dawn, who is dealing with the end of her marriage as she enters into a relationship with Hazel and all that this goes on to cost her.
It is a short but special read. I found myself surprised when it came to an end, as I think I wanted a little more, which is the sign of a very good book, in my opinion. You are left, as this book ends, wanting more and still thinking about it. I like to think that, as I have thought a little more about this book, that as it came to end for us as a reader, the characters continued to live on and take the chances that they have been given.
This is also a fascinating study of relationships. And it will be no surprise that it is an interesting study of family relationships, in all the different forms that they take.
If you have read this book, I have thoughts about the actions of Heron in 2023, and what they mean for his daughter Maggie. I am absolutely convinced that what he does, he does so in order to know, as life changes, she will have the chance of something new. I would love to know if you have read it, and if you have the same ideas. Or even if you are inspired to go and read it – let me know if you have the same ideas as you get to the end of the book.
But, most importantly, read this book because it is a complete gem!