The Coward

What a gripping debut novel! When Jarred survives an horrific car accident which kills Melissa, his first love, he finds himself suddenly confined to a wheelchair. Forced to stop running away from his past, he phones his father Jack, whom he hasn’t spoken to for 10 years. Without questions, Jack brings Jarred home. Told through flashbacks, we learn the painful cause of the estrangement of the rebellious teenager and alcoholic father. Jarred’s anger from his past fuels the frustration of his current predicament and makes a compelling story of the journey to forgiveness and redemption. The reader is also privileged to the candid insights of how society treats people who are not able bodied. Beautifully written with honesty and humour, I couldn’t put this book down.

Thank you NetGallery for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

This is a gritty and painfully honest read with some difficult subjects covered, such as alcoholism, grief and physical disability. As you would expect this makes it quite a sombre read at times, and yet it somehow manages not to feel depressing.

I actually really liked the character of Jarred. I imagine other readers may have the complete opposite opinion but I do love a flawed character. He's frustrated and angry at the world but this isn't surprising when you consider everything he has been through. Jarred is rude, caustic and self-destructive but there's also goodness in him. He's very sarcastic and the humour can be quite dark at times, but this was something I actually enjoyed.

The exploration of the relationship between Jarred and his father, Jack, was done really well. It was damaged yet the love was still there. Like Jarred, Jack also has many faults and he was desperately seeking forgiveness. What I found hopeful was despite all that had passed between them, they both deep down still wanted to mend their broken relationship. Both characters were believable and although I was frustrated with both of them, I still rooted for a positive outcome. It perfectly highlighted how grief can manifest in different ways and that progress isn't always linear. Whether it's overcoming addiction or learning to ask for help, there may still be setbacks - the important thing is to keep moving forward.

I ultimately found it to be uplifting and hopeful which you probably wouldn't expect in a book with such difficult themes. It's a book that's full of wisdom and shows how people can change if they try hard enough. I really enjoyed it.