Another great read from Amanda Prowse a story of love, loss,friendship and so much more Father and son Nick and Oliver are in turmoil after losing Kerry a loving wife and mother Everyone deals with grief differently and try to do the best they can to move on with their lives and sometimes form new relationships The bond they share is at the heart of the story and they both face much heartache before finally finding happiness again Loved the way the story is told In the present day but also goes back to when Nick was young and had a happy childhood and two special friends who are still very much part of his life The three amigoes who learned so much from his parents that the memories stay with them forever As Oliver settles into life at university Nicks life also takes a new direction it's hard for them both but eventually they both find the happiness they deserve a beautiful story with lots of lovely little memories woven into the story that tugs at your heartstrings and your emotions The Bairstow boys love them and love this book

As always Amanda writes about a difficult subject with sensitivity, despite making me feel very emotional at times it was also uplifting. Nick and his son trying to come to terms with the loss of wife/mother while Olly is moving to a new part of his life at Uni.
Nick's story is seen through his past and present through tears and laughter.

Another triumph for Amanda Prowse! What a glorious book! Though dealing with the emotional and painful subject matter of a family learning to deal with the untimely death of young wife and mother Kerry, yet it manages to emerge as life affirming and hopeful . Amanda navigates the turbulent waters of mourning, guilt and pain , with her usual unerring touch . Young widower Nick , ties in the past to the present, by skilful use of flashback memories. We get glorious glimpses of his loving childhood where his less fortunate friends, particularly his best mate and soul brother, Eric, are welcomed into his family . We learn of friendships forged in childhood and lasting a lifetime ;dreams that were put on the back burner when life threw up other plans ; hope that burns eternal and love which does not alter "when it alteration finds or bends with the remover to remove" . The complex, loving relationship between fathers and sons is played out over two generations and is exquisitely observed , as are all Amanda's observations on people and life . I love the metaphor of the all round tool , gifted to Nick by his father along with his wisdom and knowledge and love-the tools to cope with all life would throw at him. Nick and his gang of 3 amigos have the " summer of brilliant " as they rebuild an old bike using their magic tool . Well in "The Light In the Hallway" Amanda has written the book of brilliant !- brilliant story, brilliant characters , brilliant writing and brilliant thoughts to shine a light on our own lives and grief and worries and offer hope -rather like the light beams shining through the clouds like the rays from God's torch as Amanda so eloquently puts it. Yes you will cry as you read this book. However you will also smile, laugh out loud and ultimately finish the final page with a song in your heart. Sheer brilliance!