Patrick Gale is an author I only discovered fairly recently and the first novel I read of his was Notes From An Exhibition which I found absolutely engrossing and reviewed here in August 2009.
Since then I have had the intention of gradually reading my way through the back catalogue of his novels as I come across them. Unfortunately this looks like it is going to be slow going as this is only the third one I have managed to get hold of, sent to me recently by a fellow Bookcrosser. The other title which I have read is The Whole Day Through which I borrowed from my sister and never reviewed for some reason, although I do remember liking it.
Friendly Fire was published in 2005 and the protagonist is Sophie an orphan who has spent her life in a children's home. Her thirst for knowledge leads her to gain a place at an ancient boarding school. Sophie is well suited to survive the life style and work ethic environment. A well told tale of teenage angst as Sophie seen as somewhat of an oddity by the other pupils is befriended by other pupils also seen as social misfits, Lucas and Charlie. Over three years Sophie learns some tough lessons about mother love, class and families. I liked the way that Patrick Gale ended the novel for us with an epilogue, Sophie is now in her forties and we learn where life has taken her.
Patrick Gale has a knack of writing in a cool and compassionate manner about the ordinary events of life. This time perfectly covering the pain and joy of growing up.
You can learn more about the author and his writing by visiting Galewarning his official website and Wikipedia - Patrick Gale
Hi LyndyLou!I will have to put this one on my list to read! I don't usually read male authors I must admit, but I did read Notes from an Exhibition when it first came out, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This certainly looks like a good story. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteSounds quite interesting. I think I would like to pick 'Notes from an exhibition' first. Thanks for the reviews.
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of Patrick Gale, but I have to say that some of my best reading has come from a British author whose book somehow made it to the US! I am going to see if my library has any of his works. Thanks for the recommendation. I enjoy coming-of-age novels with good character development.
ReplyDeleteSounds interesting..goes to my TBR.Thanks for sharing your thoughts
ReplyDeleteThisisme@ and Vibha@ I do not think this is as good as Notes From An Exhibition but worth picking up from the library if you spot it sitting on the shelf.
ReplyDeletePatricia@ Yes definitely check him out via your library, we know how important it is to use them don't we!
Bedazzled@ That ever growing TBR list!
This sounds like one I'd enjoy. Thanks, LindyLou!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a good one.
ReplyDeleteHello LindyLou! Thanks for visiting my site. I didn't read either of Patrick Gales book. This one sounds like it might hold my interest!
ReplyDeleteTalli@, Carol@ Have you read any of his others?
ReplyDeleteGreen Monkey@ Do let me know if it does. Likewise it is great to see you here.