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When the ROLLER COASTER stops
Bethany, recently returned from Europe, seeks medical advice for a stomach upset. Because of her mixed parentage, she has inherited a specific gene, which has made her a candidate for colorectal cancer. She challenges her diagnosis; she is too young and she has too much life to live.
- GenresRelationships
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2015
62 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
About the author
Susan Tarr
9 books151 followersWhat a life I have had so far!
I arrived on the shores of Kenya, East Africa, in a 28ft yacht, and traveled Europe from there. While in Kenya, I contracted cerebral meningitis from swimming in foul water, off the side of the yacht. That stopped me in my tracks for many years. And I had 2 emergency Caesarians, one without anaesthetic. Whilst in Kenya, I was arrested for treason...but that's another story. I came home to NZ because my youngest daughter was paralyzed. But I couldn't get my Anna out of Kenya because she was not on a passport. So with the NZ embassy, we contrived a passport for her, flew it to Switzerland via AirNZ, where a pilot carried it into Kenya. Little Anna was waiting at Nairobi airport with a glue stick and a passport pic. Once we'd settled back in New Zealand, we traveled to USA since we then owned an international yacht charter and motor home company with bases and boats in Fiji, Tonga, Australia and NZ. So much stuff I could put in a book but so little time...
Writing in several different genres comes naturally to me. I tend to have several books on the go at any one time, so I can flip-flop between them when the mood takes me.
I arrived on the shores of Kenya, East Africa, in a 28ft yacht, and traveled Europe from there. While in Kenya, I contracted cerebral meningitis from swimming in foul water, off the side of the yacht. That stopped me in my tracks for many years. And I had 2 emergency Caesarians, one without anaesthetic. Whilst in Kenya, I was arrested for treason...but that's another story. I came home to NZ because my youngest daughter was paralyzed. But I couldn't get my Anna out of Kenya because she was not on a passport. So with the NZ embassy, we contrived a passport for her, flew it to Switzerland via AirNZ, where a pilot carried it into Kenya. Little Anna was waiting at Nairobi airport with a glue stick and a passport pic. Once we'd settled back in New Zealand, we traveled to USA since we then owned an international yacht charter and motor home company with bases and boats in Fiji, Tonga, Australia and NZ. So much stuff I could put in a book but so little time...
Writing in several different genres comes naturally to me. I tend to have several books on the go at any one time, so I can flip-flop between them when the mood takes me.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
July 24, 2015
Different, thought provoking, intense – what a story! Two women with nothing in common meet, interact and become more than employer and employee over the span of time Kate cares for Bethany. Bethany is irreverent, irascible and at times seems irredeemable. Kate is ready to throw in the towel and walk away more than once during their relationship but each time comes back and is never quite sure why she does. This is a story of friendships and love and how one woman copes with a prognosis she never expected to hear – and also the story of the people in her life, especially Kate, while Bethany works hard to live as long as she can. This story made me thankful I am alive and that I have good friends and family to count on should I ever be faced with a life threatening illness. Susan Tarr had a story to tell and told it very well. I thank her for the opportunity of reading and reviewing her work!
August 27, 2015
When the ROLLER COASTER stops by Susan Tarr
(A) Cleverly written story of young Bethany who finds out she has colon cancer. The story follows Bethany when she finds out her diagnosis, going through treatment and how she copes with it. She hires a housekeeper (Kate) who becomes friends with her. We see Bethany interact with her friends and with Kate. Bethany and Kate are total opposites, yet they are drawn together in friendship.
I found this story to be refreshing, not sad. There are humorous moments, along with hardship, and difficulties. The circle of friends that band together when one is critically ill was warm and heart-felt. I feel that When the ROLLER COASTER stops would be a great read for book lovers of all genres. It definitely left and impression on my heart.
(A) Cleverly written story of young Bethany who finds out she has colon cancer. The story follows Bethany when she finds out her diagnosis, going through treatment and how she copes with it. She hires a housekeeper (Kate) who becomes friends with her. We see Bethany interact with her friends and with Kate. Bethany and Kate are total opposites, yet they are drawn together in friendship.
I found this story to be refreshing, not sad. There are humorous moments, along with hardship, and difficulties. The circle of friends that band together when one is critically ill was warm and heart-felt. I feel that When the ROLLER COASTER stops would be a great read for book lovers of all genres. It definitely left and impression on my heart.
July 22, 2015
Bethany believes she might have a tummy bug. She tries to shrug it off during a conversation with Kate in the opening chapter.
Should I go any deeper into the story, which is both poignant and emotional, I would be guilty of spoiling a journey, so painstakingly crafted by author Susan Tarr.
This is a subject, which not all will feel at ease with, but the story is one, which we will or have all faced, whether it be watching our family members, or one where we are personally involved.
A young woman's life threatening illness seems like a daunting and difficult story to write about, but Ms Tarr, whose other books I have read, is one of those authors, adept at spinning a tale of darkness and infusing light into it with humour and a human sensibility that leaves me in awe.
The writing is superb. It is natural, to the point where I felt as though I knew Bethany well, and could completely empathise with her struggles to live the life she was meant to have.
A wonderful story of courage and faith.
Should I go any deeper into the story, which is both poignant and emotional, I would be guilty of spoiling a journey, so painstakingly crafted by author Susan Tarr.
This is a subject, which not all will feel at ease with, but the story is one, which we will or have all faced, whether it be watching our family members, or one where we are personally involved.
A young woman's life threatening illness seems like a daunting and difficult story to write about, but Ms Tarr, whose other books I have read, is one of those authors, adept at spinning a tale of darkness and infusing light into it with humour and a human sensibility that leaves me in awe.
The writing is superb. It is natural, to the point where I felt as though I knew Bethany well, and could completely empathise with her struggles to live the life she was meant to have.
A wonderful story of courage and faith.
July 21, 2015
Just like with all of Susan Tarr’s books, I loved this one mostly because I didn’t know what to expect. Most stories have a formula, a pattern that becomes obvious from the first three chapters. Not this story. I never knew what was coming next. In one moment the action was hilarious, the next it became serious. And just when I thought I had it figured out, it took me by surprise again. I could totally relate to the two main characters, Bethany and Kate. The author did a wonderful job in creating them, and proved once again she is an excellent storyteller.
I’m privileged to have been among the first to read this book, another of Susan Tarr’s great stories. I’m already looking forward to the next!
I’m privileged to have been among the first to read this book, another of Susan Tarr’s great stories. I’m already looking forward to the next!
January 17, 2018
I struggled with this book a bit - started off by finding the relationship between Bethany and Katie a bit strange and improbable- but I could see how they became closer as Bethany illness progressed. Apart from Bethany being ill so I felt sorry for her she didn't have many redeeming qualities. But this seemed like an honest and real account of cancer and it's effects on the patient and those around them. Thanks to TBC and to the author for the chance to read this title in exchange for a honest review.
December 6, 2015
The book surprised me in many pleasant ways. First of all, the characters aren't nicer and holier than though. They are at times very bitchy with each other, life like and real. When our heroine is diagnosed with colon cancer, it sucks and she tries to compensate with humour and sarcasm. What follows is a struggle and isn't sugar coated to make for a fairy tale and Hollywood movie.
Yet, then the book surprises again by making the characters transform through the rollercoaster experience and takes them to a most excellent ending.
I wish more books were written like this, without fake and kitsch.
Yet, then the book surprises again by making the characters transform through the rollercoaster experience and takes them to a most excellent ending.
I wish more books were written like this, without fake and kitsch.
November 9, 2017
This book is so emotional, moving, poignant, beautiful, sad, profound. It's like A Little Prince, fiction but so full of profound life lessons that you could just as easily read it as a self-help book, and it would teach you sooo much if you do. But unlike a normal self-help book, this story is also entertaining and enjoyable and sooo original and imaginative, like all of Susan Tarr's books. I'd recommend this book to anyone going through a terrible illness or to anyone who is close to someone going through a terrible illness. Reading this book won't make it any less sad or tough to go through a terrible illness, but it will change your perspective on what is happening to you and help you to see it in a new and more helpful light. Well can't write much more because this book is so good it leaves you beyond words and speechless, that is how good it is. Some things are just indescribable.
January 4, 2018
Not the easiest of reads, thought it might be a little depressing to read over the holiday period, but once I started I couldn’t put it down.
Really difficult theme, but loved the characters, their differences, their quirks, their journey from dislike to understanding, acceptance, devotion and love.
A journey of pain and suffering, denial, acceptance and every emotion imaginable.
I loved every minute of this book, it’s wonderfully colourful characters, it’s painful yet sometimes joyful warmth.
So pleased that I had the opportunity to read this tale of, unfortunately, real life and death.
Brilliantly told, Susan Tarr
Really difficult theme, but loved the characters, their differences, their quirks, their journey from dislike to understanding, acceptance, devotion and love.
A journey of pain and suffering, denial, acceptance and every emotion imaginable.
I loved every minute of this book, it’s wonderfully colourful characters, it’s painful yet sometimes joyful warmth.
So pleased that I had the opportunity to read this tale of, unfortunately, real life and death.
Brilliantly told, Susan Tarr
December 28, 2017
This story is not for the light hearted. Portrayed extremely raw and honest, it shows you the journey of a new friendship, that deepens so much, tainted by terminal illness. So well written. Thank you!
December 20, 2017
Wow, what an amazing book!!! This book spans the most unlikely friendship - two girls thrown together by default! This book is the most beautifully written book which covers all emotions of a terminally ill women, and all people around her. It depicts really clearly of how different people deal with illness... I loved the dynamics of all the eclectic bunch of friends, and all their difficult and strained, funny relationships. I loved Bethany, she was my type of girl, what was on her lung, was on her tongue! This book covers every emotion going, and is a real insight on how one would feel if heaven forbid diagnosed with a terminal illness... A most beautifully written book, which I devoured in two days!!!! Well done to Susan Tarr for such an awesome book.
January 6, 2018
I had a hard time wrapping my mind around the beginning of the book. Kate, a cleaning lady, is irritated by her employer Bethany, who is a self centered woman and leaves her apartment in such a mess that there is a lot of work. When she gets sick, Kate goes with her to doctor appointments and gets pulled into full-time care.
After this (to me) odd start, the characters came more to life. I came to appreciate Kate, and several of Bethany's friends, but never cared for Bethany herself. She was rude to the end, not even informing her parents about her disease and that irritated me. But these are just my personal feelings.
I do have to say that Susan Tarr is an excellent writer with a unique style. I look forward to reading her next book.
After this (to me) odd start, the characters came more to life. I came to appreciate Kate, and several of Bethany's friends, but never cared for Bethany herself. She was rude to the end, not even informing her parents about her disease and that irritated me. But these are just my personal feelings.
I do have to say that Susan Tarr is an excellent writer with a unique style. I look forward to reading her next book.
December 17, 2017
This was the first book I’ve read by Susan Tarr. It took me a few pages to get used to the writing style but then I was hooked.
The story is about two women, Bethany and her cleaner Kate. Bethany gets ill and they become best friends.
A truly beautiful written story of friendship and love.
The story is about two women, Bethany and her cleaner Kate. Bethany gets ill and they become best friends.
A truly beautiful written story of friendship and love.
December 28, 2017
This was the first book by Susan Tarr that I have read. I liked the story, the idea behind the story as well as the characters. Where the story fell short for me or maybe I just expected to much was that it could have been more emotional. I wanted to cry more but the sadness and crying only happened during the last 5% of the book. I felt that the writing could have been a bit more emotional and could have gotten the reader more emotionally invested. I would still recommend this book if you want to read about living with cancer and the effects that is has on the patient and their relationships with their friends.
September 13, 2015
This story is a tribute to friendship and to “Those who stay the distance” even in the face of dire circumstances. It allows Kate to support Bethany during her struggles with a life-threatening illness, and ultimately ease the fears and the pain during her decline. Just the way it happens in life, you would not know what to expect, and neither do the characters in this book, which makes the journey all the more worthwhile. It is, indeed, a roller coaster ride. “One day Bethany’s fine and it’s hard to know she’s dying. Other days she looks about a meter from the grave.” They form a bond that span both lives. Their emotions are raw and real, spinning through rage, sadness, grief, and at last, acceptance.
Bethany is undergoing a profound change. “In her dreams she still travelled Europe… still clubbed and partied hard out… But as she woke and was aware she would never do those things again.” We find comfort in the unique intimacy between these two souls. “And Bethany had seeped into Kate’s consciousness so thoroughly, absorbing all thought…”
Some of the thoughts weaved into this story are truly poignant. “Memories of safe childhood filtered from her heart. Like everyone knows not to look at the eclipse. Nana said she’d go blind, but Mum said she’d looked and survived. Sometimes you have to risk going blind to have one look.”
Five stars.
Bethany is undergoing a profound change. “In her dreams she still travelled Europe… still clubbed and partied hard out… But as she woke and was aware she would never do those things again.” We find comfort in the unique intimacy between these two souls. “And Bethany had seeped into Kate’s consciousness so thoroughly, absorbing all thought…”
Some of the thoughts weaved into this story are truly poignant. “Memories of safe childhood filtered from her heart. Like everyone knows not to look at the eclipse. Nana said she’d go blind, but Mum said she’d looked and survived. Sometimes you have to risk going blind to have one look.”
Five stars.
September 30, 2015
A FINE BOOK WITH STAYING POWER
To me, this book is SO aptly named. What does Bethany, a beautiful woman who is living the 'high life' flitting around the world and fine-dining with friends every night do when her life is stopped short by a dire medical diagnosis?
In Susan Tarr's fine, touching, "WHEN THE ROLLERCOASTER STOPS," we witness first hand not only the step-by-step process of her having to cope both medically and psychologically, we see another powerful scenario being played out: her increasing dependence on her practical, low-incomed, far less 'educated' maid, Kate, who becomes nothing less than vital in her new life as an invalid.
What particularly appealed to me was how this mismatched pair developed throughout the book. Bethany, at times rude and nasty to the loyal Kate suddenly switching to needing her more than anyone else in her life, then back again to being disgruntled as more and more, she faces her fate.
Certainly not a lightweight story, this book is none-the-less an authentic, important one; one with staying power. 5 stars, indeed!
To me, this book is SO aptly named. What does Bethany, a beautiful woman who is living the 'high life' flitting around the world and fine-dining with friends every night do when her life is stopped short by a dire medical diagnosis?
In Susan Tarr's fine, touching, "WHEN THE ROLLERCOASTER STOPS," we witness first hand not only the step-by-step process of her having to cope both medically and psychologically, we see another powerful scenario being played out: her increasing dependence on her practical, low-incomed, far less 'educated' maid, Kate, who becomes nothing less than vital in her new life as an invalid.
What particularly appealed to me was how this mismatched pair developed throughout the book. Bethany, at times rude and nasty to the loyal Kate suddenly switching to needing her more than anyone else in her life, then back again to being disgruntled as more and more, she faces her fate.
Certainly not a lightweight story, this book is none-the-less an authentic, important one; one with staying power. 5 stars, indeed!
November 25, 2015
Bethany had a lot to live for and wasn’t ready for her life to be crippled by colorectal cancer. Through heredity she gained a particular genetic factor that made her a contender for the disease. It started with a distressed stomach after coming home from Europe. The narrative tracks Bethany as she discovers her analysis and continues through her turbulent journey. Sustained by the care of devoted Kate, formerly employed as her cleaner, their improbable coming together flourishes into an authentic and close companionship. Kate adapts to being Bethany’s round-the-clock caregiver. This story was very intriguing and unpredictable. It is trailed with sentiments that are very true to real life situations. Bethany goes through many emotions such anger, sorrow, fear, loneliness, and heartache until she finds peace. At times it is sad and other times very funny. Finally, the reader is left with a thought that all that is central in one’s existence is kindness forgiveness, friendship and ultimately love. A beautiful heartfelt story crafted by the talented Susan Tarr.
January 7, 2018
The story revolves around two women in New Zealand who strike up an unlikely friendship. The writing is exceptional although the subject is emotional as it concerns a cancer diagnosis. This is the journey of these two women through this traumatic time. Although it is an emotional read it is not maudlin but do have some tissues handy.
Bethany is a go-getter, a personality who lives life to the full. On the surface she is self-centred and selfish in many ways but quietly helps many people without crowing about it.
Katy is her cleaner and is from a very different walk of life than Bethany. This unlikely friendship becomes very intense over the short months they know each other.
Bethany’s friends are a mismatch of, perhaps, superficially selfish friends until you are brought closer in to their lives.
I didn’t think I would ‘like’ this book due to the subject matter but the author has a wonderful way of dealing with a terminal illness.
An exceptionally well written book.
Bethany is a go-getter, a personality who lives life to the full. On the surface she is self-centred and selfish in many ways but quietly helps many people without crowing about it.
Katy is her cleaner and is from a very different walk of life than Bethany. This unlikely friendship becomes very intense over the short months they know each other.
Bethany’s friends are a mismatch of, perhaps, superficially selfish friends until you are brought closer in to their lives.
I didn’t think I would ‘like’ this book due to the subject matter but the author has a wonderful way of dealing with a terminal illness.
An exceptionally well written book.
May 14, 2016
Book review. When The Rollercoaster Stops by Susan Tarr
Beauty, clothes, career and a great circle of friends, high-flying Bethany has everything to live for – until one day she receives the news everyone dreads…
In a state of denial she carries on the only way she can, often turning against the people she needs the most.
During her painful journey, Bethany’s courage knows no bounds. Supported day in and day out by loyal Kate, once employed as her cleaner, their unlikely union blossoms into a beautiful and intimate friendship and Kate becomes Bethany’s full-time carer until the very end.
Beautifully written and steeped in raw emotion this story moved me to the core.
Some books stay with you long after you’ve finished reading them, and this is one of those books.
http://www.amazon.com/When-ROLLER-COA...
November 14, 2017
Looking to escape into a world of medical drama with a strong emphasis on platonic love? Look no further than Author Susan Tarr’s latest release, Friends to the End: The Journey of a Lifetime!
“They had a bond that spanned two opposing lives and belief structures, yet something had brought them together.”
Synopsis
It was only supposed to be a cleaning job, but Kate’s conservative life changes forever when she meets Bethany and is pulled into her world of mood swings, crazy friends, and weird relationships.
My Thoughts
I really enjoyed Friends to the End because of its underlying theme of the intimacies of platonic female friendship and the importance of emotional support, (sharing and overcoming burdens), especially in difficult times. What some may find in a romantic partner and/or marriage, others can find in platonic relationships. I found this perspective/plot point unique, considering the majority of novels that I’ve read have featured women protagonists against backstabbing women antagonists. Friends to the End was an exception, and I found it refreshing.
“I don’t need party dresses or a man to make me feel complete. If I weren’t here with you, where would I be? You don’t know how much I’ve enjoyed being part of this these last few months.”
I loved Bethany, even is she was a tad narcissistic. She made me laugh with her wild tales and complete lack of filter. While her point of view was limited, compared to Kate’s, I felt like I knew her just as much. The characters of Friends to the End were well developed with distinct voices and personalities. Even the secondary characters had a strong impact on the story and I enjoyed the revolving door of crazy that entered Bethany’s home.
“Everything about Bethany was soaked in entitlement and a life lived through the pages of glossy magazines.”
Overall, this was a great read. If you are looking to escape into a world of medical drama with a strong emphasis on platonic love, then look no further than Author Susan Tarr’s latest release, Friends to the End: The Journey of a Lifetime!
Full Review on A Well Read Woman Blog: https://awellreadwomanblog.wordpress....
“They had a bond that spanned two opposing lives and belief structures, yet something had brought them together.”
Synopsis
It was only supposed to be a cleaning job, but Kate’s conservative life changes forever when she meets Bethany and is pulled into her world of mood swings, crazy friends, and weird relationships.
My Thoughts
I really enjoyed Friends to the End because of its underlying theme of the intimacies of platonic female friendship and the importance of emotional support, (sharing and overcoming burdens), especially in difficult times. What some may find in a romantic partner and/or marriage, others can find in platonic relationships. I found this perspective/plot point unique, considering the majority of novels that I’ve read have featured women protagonists against backstabbing women antagonists. Friends to the End was an exception, and I found it refreshing.
“I don’t need party dresses or a man to make me feel complete. If I weren’t here with you, where would I be? You don’t know how much I’ve enjoyed being part of this these last few months.”
I loved Bethany, even is she was a tad narcissistic. She made me laugh with her wild tales and complete lack of filter. While her point of view was limited, compared to Kate’s, I felt like I knew her just as much. The characters of Friends to the End were well developed with distinct voices and personalities. Even the secondary characters had a strong impact on the story and I enjoyed the revolving door of crazy that entered Bethany’s home.
“Everything about Bethany was soaked in entitlement and a life lived through the pages of glossy magazines.”
Overall, this was a great read. If you are looking to escape into a world of medical drama with a strong emphasis on platonic love, then look no further than Author Susan Tarr’s latest release, Friends to the End: The Journey of a Lifetime!
Full Review on A Well Read Woman Blog: https://awellreadwomanblog.wordpress....
November 9, 2017
"When I need to, I'll grow wings and fly away."
What an amazing story! This was such a heartfelt, emotional ride and I absolutely adored it!
Bethany had a life others envied. The popularity, the parties, the perfect looks. Until the unimaginable happens and her life is turned upside down. To get through this journey, she will need a strength she never knew she had, and the friendship of the person she never thought would stick by her.
Kate is as opposite as she can be to Bethany. A little too curvy for her own liking, a social hermit, driving around in her beat up car, and fully aware of how different the two of them are. But, despite Bethany's condescending ways, she can't help but be drawn to her. When Bethany's journey begins, she can't leave her. She won't.
I loved watching this friendship develop. From employer/employee to friends. From friends to family. I loved how they learned so much from each other, both evolving into different people than the ones they were before. I loved Simon and George and the dynamic between them and Bethany. Despite their past, the love never left.
You felt along with Kate and Bethany. The good days, the bad days, the anger, the laughter, and the resignation for what was to come.
This was a feel-good story but at the same time gave me a good ugly-cry. This was a special story and one that will stay with me for a long time to come.
What an amazing story! This was such a heartfelt, emotional ride and I absolutely adored it!
Bethany had a life others envied. The popularity, the parties, the perfect looks. Until the unimaginable happens and her life is turned upside down. To get through this journey, she will need a strength she never knew she had, and the friendship of the person she never thought would stick by her.
Kate is as opposite as she can be to Bethany. A little too curvy for her own liking, a social hermit, driving around in her beat up car, and fully aware of how different the two of them are. But, despite Bethany's condescending ways, she can't help but be drawn to her. When Bethany's journey begins, she can't leave her. She won't.
I loved watching this friendship develop. From employer/employee to friends. From friends to family. I loved how they learned so much from each other, both evolving into different people than the ones they were before. I loved Simon and George and the dynamic between them and Bethany. Despite their past, the love never left.
You felt along with Kate and Bethany. The good days, the bad days, the anger, the laughter, and the resignation for what was to come.
This was a feel-good story but at the same time gave me a good ugly-cry. This was a special story and one that will stay with me for a long time to come.
December 28, 2017
What an amazing story! This was such a heartfelt, emotional book and I loved it!
Bethany had it all, popularity, parties, and looks. When she was diagnosed her world crashed. To get through it, she needed strength and the friendship of the person she never thought would be by her side.
Kate worked for Bethany. Kate was over weight and she didn't participate socially. Despite Bethany's treating her basket she still cares for her. When Bethany's journey begins, she can't leave her.
Their friendship caused both to evolve into better versions of them self. And you could empathize with everything they did.
This was a feel-good story but I cried my eyes out. I loved this book and think you will too!
Bethany had it all, popularity, parties, and looks. When she was diagnosed her world crashed. To get through it, she needed strength and the friendship of the person she never thought would be by her side.
Kate worked for Bethany. Kate was over weight and she didn't participate socially. Despite Bethany's treating her basket she still cares for her. When Bethany's journey begins, she can't leave her.
Their friendship caused both to evolve into better versions of them self. And you could empathize with everything they did.
This was a feel-good story but I cried my eyes out. I loved this book and think you will too!
November 10, 2017
Friends to the End, a soul searching, heart wrenching, anger inducing, teary eyed, laugh provoking, drama of real life. At first, I hated both Bethany and Kate, for different reasons. Slowly, I started to understand why I was hating them and why they were acting or reacting to a horrible part of life. With that understanding, I soon started to love them.
After living with my father in-law during the five years he fought the same illness, I realized how Susan Tarr completely conveyed the ups and downs of the patient and those that love them. This story searches all the topics terminally ill people search and how their caregivers search and find peace too.
Just as in real life, there were times I wanted to slap some folks and tell them, cut the drama, life is too short for that kind of crap. Then other times I fought back the tears, wanting to hug both women.
Thank you Susan Tarr for this marvelously written tale
After living with my father in-law during the five years he fought the same illness, I realized how Susan Tarr completely conveyed the ups and downs of the patient and those that love them. This story searches all the topics terminally ill people search and how their caregivers search and find peace too.
Just as in real life, there were times I wanted to slap some folks and tell them, cut the drama, life is too short for that kind of crap. Then other times I fought back the tears, wanting to hug both women.
Thank you Susan Tarr for this marvelously written tale
December 13, 2017
This was my first Susan Tarr story, and being in a genre I don't normally read I had no idea what to expect.
Ms Tarr writes complex multi-layered characters you can relate to as you accompany them on their journey. I found as I read, each and every one of my emotions was stretched taut, only to be set free on the following page.
Friends to the End bares both the beauty of friendship and the harsh realities of being there for someone until the end. Bravo, Ms Tarr, on your beautiful book!
Ms Tarr writes complex multi-layered characters you can relate to as you accompany them on their journey. I found as I read, each and every one of my emotions was stretched taut, only to be set free on the following page.
Friends to the End bares both the beauty of friendship and the harsh realities of being there for someone until the end. Bravo, Ms Tarr, on your beautiful book!
December 11, 2017
A beautifully written story of a friendship that endures through difficult circumstances. Bethany and Kate are very different but become friends. When Bethany gets sick Kate supports her. The characters are well developed and believable. Like real people they aren't always likable but by the end of the book you want things to come right for them.
A very easy book to read.
A very easy book to read.
January 6, 2018
When I first started to read this book I didn’t think I was going to like how. I felt like I didn’t like the characters and wasn’t really bothered about them. How wrong was I!! The further into the book the more engrossed in the story and couldn’t wait to get in bed and read the next chapters.
I cried so much at the end which for me is a sign of a well written book. Absolutely amazing, 5 stars
I cried so much at the end which for me is a sign of a well written book. Absolutely amazing, 5 stars
December 27, 2017
This is the story of a very unlikely friendship between Bethany, the socialite, and Kate the cleaner. Kate finds herself drawn to the sparkling Bethany, her lifestyle and friends. When Bethany becomes seriously ill Kate becomes drawn in as her carer, and her best friend.
January 2, 2018
I'm afraid that I never became emotionally invested in the characters. I didn't really trust B, or understand why Kate stayed with someone who irritated her so much. I felt like there was a huge amount of emotion under the surface, but I wasn't able to access it. I can see how much love there is for the book, so I would not say don't read it. Maybe it is just me!
November 10, 2017
I was unsure what to expect from this book, so I began reading with an open mind. It took me a few pages to get used to Susan's style and then I was hooked. The blurb doesn't give the book away, so I won't but needless to say, get your hankies ready. Difficult topics are dealt with using wondrous phrases. The writing near the end of this book is simply beautiful.
November 27, 2017
It was my first time reading this author. I wasn't quite sure as to what to expect. It was a very touching story. Was definitely an emotional rollercoaster.
December 28, 2017
Wow what a emotional story. 2 ladies who become friends, both from opposite ends of a social spectrum. The reader is then drawn into their friendship, feeling the emotions best friends feel for each other- due to one character been ill. The author has totally captured the joys of female friendship when it is stripped down to truly caring for your best friend. I loved this story and felt for the girls. It will stay with me for a long time.
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