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Peach
Following the untimely passing of a close friend, British songwriter and producer, Freddie Ward, arrives in Bliss, Idaho to work on a comeback album with beloved singer-songwriter, Hal Granger. Adrift and bereft, Freddie is looking to gain a sense of perspective after a series of bad decisions—decisions that cost him his relationship and life as he knows it.
However, almost as soon as Freddie arrives in Idaho, Hal drops an unexpected and devastating bombshell. Far from the hustle and bustle of his life in England, out in the stark isolation of the northwestern U.S., with time to think, to reflect, Freddie slowly begins to rebuild his life, haunted both by the events of the recent past and his reactions to them.
Through words of wisdom from Hal and a series of meandering, existential, and profound conversations, “Peach” explores themes such as love, loss, loyalty, and friendship; second chances and redemption; how to make the most of your time; and, last but not least, the meaning of home.
Reviewed as an “emotional chokehold of dramatic introspective fiction,” Peach has also been described as “Almost Famous” meets “Lost in Translation” meets “Before Sunset.” It is an ambitious attempt at establishing mumblecore as a genuine sub-genre of literary fiction. Peach explores existential themes through transient connections and relationships. The conversations stay with you long after you have finished reading, making it a perfect choice for book clubs.
However, almost as soon as Freddie arrives in Idaho, Hal drops an unexpected and devastating bombshell. Far from the hustle and bustle of his life in England, out in the stark isolation of the northwestern U.S., with time to think, to reflect, Freddie slowly begins to rebuild his life, haunted both by the events of the recent past and his reactions to them.
Through words of wisdom from Hal and a series of meandering, existential, and profound conversations, “Peach” explores themes such as love, loss, loyalty, and friendship; second chances and redemption; how to make the most of your time; and, last but not least, the meaning of home.
Reviewed as an “emotional chokehold of dramatic introspective fiction,” Peach has also been described as “Almost Famous” meets “Lost in Translation” meets “Before Sunset.” It is an ambitious attempt at establishing mumblecore as a genuine sub-genre of literary fiction. Peach explores existential themes through transient connections and relationships. The conversations stay with you long after you have finished reading, making it a perfect choice for book clubs.
320 pages, Paperback
Published November 27, 2018
1 person is currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 16, 2019
Book Reviewed by Marcia on www.whisperingstories.com
Protagonist Freddie Ward is a travelling musician and songwriter. When someone he had become close to, via his work, dies Freddie takes their death hard and struggles with grief, he loses his identity and shuts out the one person that is closest to him.
After a meeting with someone from his past, little by little he begins to find himself again and return to the man he was before.
Freddie’s journey of loss and self-discovery takes him from the UK to the USA and then back again. It was interesting to get to read about Freddie’s journey in the two different countries, both were detailed well. It was also endearing how the conversations throughout seemed so heartwarming and touching as if the author had been through the same heartache himself.
The structure of the book was quite hard to grasp at the start, but once I got used to it the story started to flow and held me to the pages. This is not a book you can rush, it is a slow paced story of love, loss, and rediscovery. The pages were filled with pure emotion which you could feel intensely and the writing makes you stop and think about your own life. You might also need a tissue at some points.
However, I felt a little let down by the ending as it really didn’t compliment this wonderful book, which is such a shame.
Protagonist Freddie Ward is a travelling musician and songwriter. When someone he had become close to, via his work, dies Freddie takes their death hard and struggles with grief, he loses his identity and shuts out the one person that is closest to him.
After a meeting with someone from his past, little by little he begins to find himself again and return to the man he was before.
Freddie’s journey of loss and self-discovery takes him from the UK to the USA and then back again. It was interesting to get to read about Freddie’s journey in the two different countries, both were detailed well. It was also endearing how the conversations throughout seemed so heartwarming and touching as if the author had been through the same heartache himself.
The structure of the book was quite hard to grasp at the start, but once I got used to it the story started to flow and held me to the pages. This is not a book you can rush, it is a slow paced story of love, loss, and rediscovery. The pages were filled with pure emotion which you could feel intensely and the writing makes you stop and think about your own life. You might also need a tissue at some points.
However, I felt a little let down by the ending as it really didn’t compliment this wonderful book, which is such a shame.
September 23, 2018
Wayne Barton is unique as a writer in that he uses words the way a painter uses colors. Every sentence has meaning and adds to a picture created in the mind of the reader. And it is beautiful. Reading at night next to my sleeping husband, I often had to stop myself from reading aloud as Barton's writings deserve to be spoken out loud for the brain to truly absorb the beauty of his pen.
As an advanced reader, book I received was printed in an unbelievably small font with room above and below each line for comments and corrections. I started knowing I would never finish the 400+ pages as it was just to different and difficult. A few chapters in and I knew I would not stop without knowing how "Peach" ended. It is that good.
The story of Freddie Ward is an onion with layers requiring a slow peel. One chapter is full of life, excitement, possibilities as the song writer and musician begins a fast paced life with an industrious and companionable new love, Ailie. Their story, at the start, is like many new beginnings and pulls you in and then....the next chapter leaves the reader guessing as to what has happened. What has changed that even the words in your head come out maudlin and heavy and you can't go faster to discover the .... tragedy? Surely it must be a tragedy because a life full of rainbows and unicorns would not merit a 400 page novel.
Peach is a novel about finding oneself and redefining self perception and appreciation.
Peach isn't for the faint of heart. It's heavy; life questioning, introspective. There is death, dying, soul searching .... and at the age of 53, an orphan child with children who have outgrown my parenting, I found myself sad during periods of this story. When in despair, one of the characters says, "What is this life? What is this life?", I couldn't help but feel I was in a conversation rather than an uninvolved person reading about fictional people.
Much of this story is set in Idaho and centers around young Freddie at the start of his life, afraid to commit and convinced of his own valuelessness. His employer Hal had a successful career, but a personal life of emptiness after becoming a widower at a far too young age. Now facing death, Hal shares his life with the young songwriter and through their long talks, the reader inevitably must examine his own life. This is a heavy novel but well worth the time and emotion the reader will invest.
As a reader, I rarely look at reviews prior to reading a book because sometimes they come off more like book reports and give away too many of the things I should get to discover for myself. I won't do that here. I'm only going to say: read Peach; you'll be better for having experienced it yourself.
This book does not get released until November. In the meantime, I'd highly recommend reading Barton's earlier work, Coal House. That was how I discovered this new author and although a COMPLETELY different feel than Peach, I would recommend that book as well. Especially alone, on a dark and dreary night.
As an advanced reader, book I received was printed in an unbelievably small font with room above and below each line for comments and corrections. I started knowing I would never finish the 400+ pages as it was just to different and difficult. A few chapters in and I knew I would not stop without knowing how "Peach" ended. It is that good.
The story of Freddie Ward is an onion with layers requiring a slow peel. One chapter is full of life, excitement, possibilities as the song writer and musician begins a fast paced life with an industrious and companionable new love, Ailie. Their story, at the start, is like many new beginnings and pulls you in and then....the next chapter leaves the reader guessing as to what has happened. What has changed that even the words in your head come out maudlin and heavy and you can't go faster to discover the .... tragedy? Surely it must be a tragedy because a life full of rainbows and unicorns would not merit a 400 page novel.
Peach is a novel about finding oneself and redefining self perception and appreciation.
Peach isn't for the faint of heart. It's heavy; life questioning, introspective. There is death, dying, soul searching .... and at the age of 53, an orphan child with children who have outgrown my parenting, I found myself sad during periods of this story. When in despair, one of the characters says, "What is this life? What is this life?", I couldn't help but feel I was in a conversation rather than an uninvolved person reading about fictional people.
Much of this story is set in Idaho and centers around young Freddie at the start of his life, afraid to commit and convinced of his own valuelessness. His employer Hal had a successful career, but a personal life of emptiness after becoming a widower at a far too young age. Now facing death, Hal shares his life with the young songwriter and through their long talks, the reader inevitably must examine his own life. This is a heavy novel but well worth the time and emotion the reader will invest.
As a reader, I rarely look at reviews prior to reading a book because sometimes they come off more like book reports and give away too many of the things I should get to discover for myself. I won't do that here. I'm only going to say: read Peach; you'll be better for having experienced it yourself.
This book does not get released until November. In the meantime, I'd highly recommend reading Barton's earlier work, Coal House. That was how I discovered this new author and although a COMPLETELY different feel than Peach, I would recommend that book as well. Especially alone, on a dark and dreary night.
March 29, 2020
This is one of the best contemporary books I have ever read. Wayne Barton is writing pure emotion in this sad story of fame, love, and finding where you belong. I found myself stunned again and again as characters said and did the things they did, which all led to the story we were watching unfold. Hal was such an inspiring character and I may have actually cried at one point.
All in all, read this book. Enjoy this book. Learn from this book. It's so good.
All in all, read this book. Enjoy this book. Learn from this book. It's so good.
February 20, 2019
“Sometimes I wonder whether I have felt everything I’m ever going to feel, and, whether, from here on out, I’m not going to feel anything new”
I was hooked from the beginning to the end! I enjoyed this book so much.
This books talks about heartbreaks, losses of very close people, new adventures, chasing your dreams, new love / opportunity, but most important to believe in yourself 🙌🏻
SPOILER:
I expected a better ending 😭 I wanted more moments of Freddie and Brooke together!!
I was hooked from the beginning to the end! I enjoyed this book so much.
This books talks about heartbreaks, losses of very close people, new adventures, chasing your dreams, new love / opportunity, but most important to believe in yourself 🙌🏻
SPOILER:
I expected a better ending 😭 I wanted more moments of Freddie and Brooke together!!
March 20, 2019
I was given an eARC of this novel from Fish Out of Water Books and the author in exchange for an honest review. *CORRECTION MADE- Publisher added*
I was contacted by Wayne Barton about his novel Peach, and I'd been seeing it all over Instagram- the 'grammers were loving it. So I was genuinely interested to see what all the hype was about, and very eager to offer a review for Barton and publisher Fish Out of Water Books.
The book starts off introducing an British songwriter named Freddie, who is nearing the prime of his career as he lands in Idaho to work and write songs for Hal, a legendary artist whose career has been slack for years. Hal and Freddie are a little awkward at first in their respect for one another. Hal shows Freddie around the small town (Bliss, population 299) and introduces him to Murphy's Bar and Grill owner Louise, and her spunky daughter Brooke. In mostly quiet observations, Freddie can see that Hal and Louise have a deep affection for each other, and together with Brooke they are close enough to be family, but something is holding Hal back- something he's hiding. When the truth is revealed, Louise comes up with a plan that involves Freddie getting to know the real Hal.
In the meantime, through the work with Hal, the small town atmosphere, and the friendships that Freddie makes, he's able to sort out the all his lady troubles as well as learn about himself and what he truly wants in life.
For me, Peach was a solid read, but there were a few things about the book that made me sit on the fence about it. The pacing of the novel is rather slow- there's a lot of inner-Freddie thoughts that seem to require a lot of time to cover. There's also a little redundancy within those thoughts- like, we get it Freddie, you have girl problems, it's confusing, you are so conflicted...I digress. It's always hard for me to get behind a character I don't empathize with.
But aside from that, I did find myself wanting to know what would happen, how things would play out with Hal and Louise, as which girl would finally pull Freddie's head out of his butt, pardon my french. I liked the setting and could easily imagine Hal's place, with Freddie and Hal working on songs. I thought the incorporation of the song lyrics was a neat addition, aiding to the plot. The twists in the plot were good, and kept me turning the pages, and there were quite a few lines that I immediate thought, oh, that's a good quote.
Peach is definitely one to look for on the bookshelves if you like a slow burning drama, and in the end, I can completely understand the hype.
I was contacted by Wayne Barton about his novel Peach, and I'd been seeing it all over Instagram- the 'grammers were loving it. So I was genuinely interested to see what all the hype was about, and very eager to offer a review for Barton and publisher Fish Out of Water Books.
The book starts off introducing an British songwriter named Freddie, who is nearing the prime of his career as he lands in Idaho to work and write songs for Hal, a legendary artist whose career has been slack for years. Hal and Freddie are a little awkward at first in their respect for one another. Hal shows Freddie around the small town (Bliss, population 299) and introduces him to Murphy's Bar and Grill owner Louise, and her spunky daughter Brooke. In mostly quiet observations, Freddie can see that Hal and Louise have a deep affection for each other, and together with Brooke they are close enough to be family, but something is holding Hal back- something he's hiding. When the truth is revealed, Louise comes up with a plan that involves Freddie getting to know the real Hal.
In the meantime, through the work with Hal, the small town atmosphere, and the friendships that Freddie makes, he's able to sort out the all his lady troubles as well as learn about himself and what he truly wants in life.
For me, Peach was a solid read, but there were a few things about the book that made me sit on the fence about it. The pacing of the novel is rather slow- there's a lot of inner-Freddie thoughts that seem to require a lot of time to cover. There's also a little redundancy within those thoughts- like, we get it Freddie, you have girl problems, it's confusing, you are so conflicted...I digress. It's always hard for me to get behind a character I don't empathize with.
But aside from that, I did find myself wanting to know what would happen, how things would play out with Hal and Louise, as which girl would finally pull Freddie's head out of his butt, pardon my french. I liked the setting and could easily imagine Hal's place, with Freddie and Hal working on songs. I thought the incorporation of the song lyrics was a neat addition, aiding to the plot. The twists in the plot were good, and kept me turning the pages, and there were quite a few lines that I immediate thought, oh, that's a good quote.
Peach is definitely one to look for on the bookshelves if you like a slow burning drama, and in the end, I can completely understand the hype.
February 2, 2019
This is a genuine and good book. I really enjoyed the thoughtfulness and the introspection of this book. Full disclosure: I was sent a PDF copy of this book to read and review it. My honest opinion is that it is very heart warming. It truly captures life's most simple, yet, most complicated issues and details how most young adults, leaving their young adulthood, come to their own conclusions and realizations about themselves and how life unfolds around them. I can personally relate to much of the turmoil our main character, Freddie, went through in this book. From not knowing how to relate yourself to others, where and how you fit into other people's lives, and finding a place or person to truly call home; these are all experiences we have had or will have which makes this book relatable to any human.
I appreciate how Barton touched on the topic of grief. I have suffered much grief in my own life and, it seems, every time I experience it, I experience it in a whole new way. It can be destructive, it can be healing, and it can lead to a deeper understanding of life one only finds at the end of the tunnel of grief and he captured all of its complexities beautifully in this novel.
If anything describes me, 'introspective' is the word so I can deeply appreciate the deep dive into self-reflection that this book provides. However, from personal experience, I know that when sharing one's introspective ideas and thoughts, it can come off a bit preachy and this book certainly played on that boarder between pensive self-reflection and preaching; though, I don't think it hurt the book, story, or writing in the least. At worst, it slowed the book down a tad but not to any unbearable pace.
I have to admit, I'm not entirely sure why the book is titled 'Peach' but I really appreciate the cover art and the title does elicit curiosity so I think it is tactfully titled.
Well done, Barton, on this novel! From my experience reading it, it accomplished everything it set out to.
I appreciate how Barton touched on the topic of grief. I have suffered much grief in my own life and, it seems, every time I experience it, I experience it in a whole new way. It can be destructive, it can be healing, and it can lead to a deeper understanding of life one only finds at the end of the tunnel of grief and he captured all of its complexities beautifully in this novel.
If anything describes me, 'introspective' is the word so I can deeply appreciate the deep dive into self-reflection that this book provides. However, from personal experience, I know that when sharing one's introspective ideas and thoughts, it can come off a bit preachy and this book certainly played on that boarder between pensive self-reflection and preaching; though, I don't think it hurt the book, story, or writing in the least. At worst, it slowed the book down a tad but not to any unbearable pace.
I have to admit, I'm not entirely sure why the book is titled 'Peach' but I really appreciate the cover art and the title does elicit curiosity so I think it is tactfully titled.
Well done, Barton, on this novel! From my experience reading it, it accomplished everything it set out to.
May 24, 2019
BOOK REVIEW⠀
[Peach] A young songwriter finds his way with an older mentor.⠀
#gifted for an honest review⠀
//⠀
WHAT I LIKED⠀
Wayne Barton truly immerses you in his introspection. The first sentence is beautifully simple and mind-boggling. His later description of Freddie Ward’s epiphany was one of my favorite sentences. How he dealt with grey area themes like the wish for a blank start and the pull between what society expects versus someone’s personal obstacles was unique. I can’t quite put my finger on how his characters feel on all levels, and I’m not sure his characters know either. It’s a shared uncertainty I love. There is one pretty good twist (though I felt it was a little too easily resolved) and a few flashbacks I thoroughly enjoyed.⠀
//⠀
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE⠀
The main character was my main problem. Freddie Ward is a shy, talented guy who worries about causing others pain. It sounds like a surefire great character! In fact, I LOVE imperfect characters! But he isn’t allowed to totally fail. His falling is cushioned by attempts to make you love him no matter what. Let me hate him, and then make me fall back in love with him. ⠀
//⠀
The book takes awhile to pick up. For me, I think Ward’s characterization is the reason why. Besides the small jewels like the one I mentioned earlier, there's some fluff in the beginning chapters. I started to skim at times because I felt I read the line “grab a beer” so often. Freddie and Hal’s relationship is definitely awkward at first, but I think it could have fleshed much of this out and the story left standing would have a greater impact. The hidden gems which had me questioning my own life experience made the fluff worth it!⠀
//⠀
Recommended if you like: The Notebook, The Fault in Our Stars⠀
//⠀
Peach (by Wayne Barton) ⚡️⚡️⚡️✨3.5/5⠀
//⠀
#peach #waynebarton @FOWbooks @peachthebook @waynebarton⠀
#ellesbookreviews2019
[Peach] A young songwriter finds his way with an older mentor.⠀
#gifted for an honest review⠀
//⠀
WHAT I LIKED⠀
Wayne Barton truly immerses you in his introspection. The first sentence is beautifully simple and mind-boggling. His later description of Freddie Ward’s epiphany was one of my favorite sentences. How he dealt with grey area themes like the wish for a blank start and the pull between what society expects versus someone’s personal obstacles was unique. I can’t quite put my finger on how his characters feel on all levels, and I’m not sure his characters know either. It’s a shared uncertainty I love. There is one pretty good twist (though I felt it was a little too easily resolved) and a few flashbacks I thoroughly enjoyed.⠀
//⠀
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE⠀
The main character was my main problem. Freddie Ward is a shy, talented guy who worries about causing others pain. It sounds like a surefire great character! In fact, I LOVE imperfect characters! But he isn’t allowed to totally fail. His falling is cushioned by attempts to make you love him no matter what. Let me hate him, and then make me fall back in love with him. ⠀
//⠀
The book takes awhile to pick up. For me, I think Ward’s characterization is the reason why. Besides the small jewels like the one I mentioned earlier, there's some fluff in the beginning chapters. I started to skim at times because I felt I read the line “grab a beer” so often. Freddie and Hal’s relationship is definitely awkward at first, but I think it could have fleshed much of this out and the story left standing would have a greater impact. The hidden gems which had me questioning my own life experience made the fluff worth it!⠀
//⠀
Recommended if you like: The Notebook, The Fault in Our Stars⠀
//⠀
Peach (by Wayne Barton) ⚡️⚡️⚡️✨3.5/5⠀
//⠀
#peach #waynebarton @FOWbooks @peachthebook @waynebarton⠀
#ellesbookreviews2019
July 28, 2019
Thank you to Fish Out of Water Books for sending me a digital copy of Peach to read and review.
As the novel opens, we meet songwriter Freddie Ward who is dealing with his grief over the death of his close friend, a recent breakup with his long-term partner Ailie, and a confusing meeting with his ex-girlfriend Kaia when he decides to pursue a work project in Idaho with a long-ago music legend, Hal. In Idaho, Freddie is confronted with questions of his purpose in life and love, and what he is going to do with his future. It is also where he meets Louise and Brooke – a mom and daughter, respectively, who work in the local pub and are long-time family friends of Hal’s. The novel follows Freddie’s journey in getting to know these three Idaho locals and his attempts to answer these larger philosophical questions that trouble him.
The novel’s plot is straightforward and simple, and it is a slow burn. There are moments of emotion and intrigue, and some lovely descriptions, but it did not achieve a level of interest that kept me fully engaged and excited as I read. The book really shines through the characters; the primary characters are quite endearing. They behave believably and have interesting depth which allows the reader to become invested in the outcome of this story. I wish that there were more scenes with Freddie and Tyler, Hal and Louise, and Kaia and Brooke. I think that the novel would have benefitted from building the tension and conflict in the small moments between these characters. Sometimes, the dialogue felt trite and forced, which took me out of the story.
What I did not enjoy about this book was its inability to hide the plot mechanics; I could see exactly what the author was doing – how he was building toward a certain event, decision, or outcome. I think some tightening is needed in that regard.
Readers of High Fidelity and Daisy Jones and The Six might enjoy Peach.
As the novel opens, we meet songwriter Freddie Ward who is dealing with his grief over the death of his close friend, a recent breakup with his long-term partner Ailie, and a confusing meeting with his ex-girlfriend Kaia when he decides to pursue a work project in Idaho with a long-ago music legend, Hal. In Idaho, Freddie is confronted with questions of his purpose in life and love, and what he is going to do with his future. It is also where he meets Louise and Brooke – a mom and daughter, respectively, who work in the local pub and are long-time family friends of Hal’s. The novel follows Freddie’s journey in getting to know these three Idaho locals and his attempts to answer these larger philosophical questions that trouble him.
The novel’s plot is straightforward and simple, and it is a slow burn. There are moments of emotion and intrigue, and some lovely descriptions, but it did not achieve a level of interest that kept me fully engaged and excited as I read. The book really shines through the characters; the primary characters are quite endearing. They behave believably and have interesting depth which allows the reader to become invested in the outcome of this story. I wish that there were more scenes with Freddie and Tyler, Hal and Louise, and Kaia and Brooke. I think that the novel would have benefitted from building the tension and conflict in the small moments between these characters. Sometimes, the dialogue felt trite and forced, which took me out of the story.
What I did not enjoy about this book was its inability to hide the plot mechanics; I could see exactly what the author was doing – how he was building toward a certain event, decision, or outcome. I think some tightening is needed in that regard.
Readers of High Fidelity and Daisy Jones and The Six might enjoy Peach.
February 8, 2019
4 / 5 🌟
I was given a PDF copy of this newly released book (release date for the UK is 3/15). Although I was unfamiliar with the author, the book itself was a comfortable and inviting read.
Freddie Ward is a young, British songwriter who has just suffered the loss of a close friend. Struggling to deal with his grief, Freddie finds that his decisions, or lack of a will to decide, is causing a trail of confusion and heartbreak. Thinking he needs some time and space to sort out his life, Freddie agrees to fly to Idaho to help make a comeback album for the once very popular singer, Hal Granger.
Immediately, Freddie is amazed how easily Hal welcomes him into his home and his life in this small town community. They enjoy reflective talks on the porch as the sun is setting, going to the local bar for lunches, and hanging out with Hal’s favorite people. Hal has the words of wisdom and insight that Freddie has been longing for. Helping him to learn to live for the what could be, and not just regret the what was. But soon Hal tells Freddie news that will once again rock Freddie’s bearings.
This story has all the elements of an angsty romance, what with Freddie caught between women and dealing with the baggage of the past. But this book takes you to a different place. The relationship that is built between Hal and Freddie is seamless. Caught somewhere between father and son, and mentor and mentee. Barton writes dialogue that feels natural, not contrived. And interspersed are these little pearls of perspective that will give you pause.
“...there will always be something left unsaid.”
I was given a PDF copy of this newly released book (release date for the UK is 3/15). Although I was unfamiliar with the author, the book itself was a comfortable and inviting read.
Freddie Ward is a young, British songwriter who has just suffered the loss of a close friend. Struggling to deal with his grief, Freddie finds that his decisions, or lack of a will to decide, is causing a trail of confusion and heartbreak. Thinking he needs some time and space to sort out his life, Freddie agrees to fly to Idaho to help make a comeback album for the once very popular singer, Hal Granger.
Immediately, Freddie is amazed how easily Hal welcomes him into his home and his life in this small town community. They enjoy reflective talks on the porch as the sun is setting, going to the local bar for lunches, and hanging out with Hal’s favorite people. Hal has the words of wisdom and insight that Freddie has been longing for. Helping him to learn to live for the what could be, and not just regret the what was. But soon Hal tells Freddie news that will once again rock Freddie’s bearings.
This story has all the elements of an angsty romance, what with Freddie caught between women and dealing with the baggage of the past. But this book takes you to a different place. The relationship that is built between Hal and Freddie is seamless. Caught somewhere between father and son, and mentor and mentee. Barton writes dialogue that feels natural, not contrived. And interspersed are these little pearls of perspective that will give you pause.
“...there will always be something left unsaid.”
April 21, 2019
I have received a copy from the author in exchange of my honest opinion so thank you Wayne for trusting me!
We follow the story of Freedie, a song writter who after the death of a close friend he shuts down from his family, friends and girlfriend because he is lost in grief. One day he finds somebody from his past and thinking this is the way he will be again himself made a mistake and ends being a little more confused than before. Freddie decides to take a job working with Hal, an ex famous musician, and fly from the UK to the US to met him. He will stay at his house to do music together. But Hal has his own grief to leave with, after him loosing his wife many years before he still can´t recover from it and leaves his life in her constant memory.
Leaving in Idaho Freedie will meet new people and start finding himself again, recovering from lost and finding out what he really wants in life for himself, and who he wants to be with.
The story is really heartworming, and its life as it is. It has sad moments and then happy ones, and we leave every feeling together with the character because they felt real.
The only reason why I have given 3.5* is because I didn´t like the ending. The book was building towards a great conflict and then it suddenly ends, and everything is solved and It lost the sense of reality I was getting from the story. I wish it would have extended a little bit more and (get to the same result) but in a different way.
I would really recommend to read this book if you like real and honest stories, where the characters have a lot of flaws but you get attached to them because they are honest and human.
We follow the story of Freedie, a song writter who after the death of a close friend he shuts down from his family, friends and girlfriend because he is lost in grief. One day he finds somebody from his past and thinking this is the way he will be again himself made a mistake and ends being a little more confused than before. Freddie decides to take a job working with Hal, an ex famous musician, and fly from the UK to the US to met him. He will stay at his house to do music together. But Hal has his own grief to leave with, after him loosing his wife many years before he still can´t recover from it and leaves his life in her constant memory.
Leaving in Idaho Freedie will meet new people and start finding himself again, recovering from lost and finding out what he really wants in life for himself, and who he wants to be with.
The story is really heartworming, and its life as it is. It has sad moments and then happy ones, and we leave every feeling together with the character because they felt real.
The only reason why I have given 3.5* is because I didn´t like the ending. The book was building towards a great conflict and then it suddenly ends, and everything is solved and It lost the sense of reality I was getting from the story. I wish it would have extended a little bit more and (get to the same result) but in a different way.
I would really recommend to read this book if you like real and honest stories, where the characters have a lot of flaws but you get attached to them because they are honest and human.
March 9, 2019
When the reader first meets Freddie, he has traveled to Idaho for a job and to avoid facing problems back home in England. There to write songs and work with an aged singer, the premise of Peach catches the reader's attention immediately. Initially, the story appears to be one of a writer with cool rock connections. However, the story deepens as main character Freddie considers his life and looks past the superficial top layer.
As Freddie asks himself those tough life questions and develops relationships with the people he meets in Idaho, his character evolves. While unraveling the issues that made him run such a great distance, he finds himself and builds new, meaningful relationships. Characters like Hal, Louise and Brooke are identifiable characters that each offer an element reflective of live, such as Hal's wisdom.
Peach is a beautiful story of reflection, love and friendship. It is absent of melodramatic catastrophes, instead choosing challenges we all face in life. It had a great cast of characters, with the star being love, in all its many forms: love of life, amorous love, unrequited love, new love and old love.
As Freddie asks himself those tough life questions and develops relationships with the people he meets in Idaho, his character evolves. While unraveling the issues that made him run such a great distance, he finds himself and builds new, meaningful relationships. Characters like Hal, Louise and Brooke are identifiable characters that each offer an element reflective of live, such as Hal's wisdom.
Peach is a beautiful story of reflection, love and friendship. It is absent of melodramatic catastrophes, instead choosing challenges we all face in life. It had a great cast of characters, with the star being love, in all its many forms: love of life, amorous love, unrequited love, new love and old love.
April 4, 2019
**I was gifted a PDF copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
Are you happy in life? Are you where you wanted or where you want to be? People change, people evolve. You must learn to overcome your grief and learn how to live. You might have an ideal you want to achieve but it might not be the best route, that does not make you a bad person if you want to take another one.
This is a book you need to take time to read. You don't rush through it. You let it sink in. I am not used to meditative books so it was refreshing.
The ending felt a bit weird. Most of the book is reflective and slow paced, you have a lot of introspection, you breathe. But then, you get to the last 30 pages and it's full of jumps and turns. I felt like it clashed with the rest of the book like it was the last chance to get some action and twists. I felt that last part could have been longer so it could match the pace of the book.
I would still recommend to anyone who would like a light and relaxing book.
Are you happy in life? Are you where you wanted or where you want to be? People change, people evolve. You must learn to overcome your grief and learn how to live. You might have an ideal you want to achieve but it might not be the best route, that does not make you a bad person if you want to take another one.
This is a book you need to take time to read. You don't rush through it. You let it sink in. I am not used to meditative books so it was refreshing.
The ending felt a bit weird. Most of the book is reflective and slow paced, you have a lot of introspection, you breathe. But then, you get to the last 30 pages and it's full of jumps and turns. I felt like it clashed with the rest of the book like it was the last chance to get some action and twists. I felt that last part could have been longer so it could match the pace of the book.
I would still recommend to anyone who would like a light and relaxing book.
February 28, 2019
Peach is a very beautifully written novel and an instant classic. It allows the reader to think about their lives as the author takes us on the journey of Freddie's life.
Very simplistically and realistically executed, Peach, talks about the struggles in the life of an artist or any other normal person. Inability to focus, blaming others and finding excuses while procrastinating the work. Not just the work related struggles, but struggles in maintaining relationships, romantic or otherwise.
The entire novel feels like an experience. As if you are talking to your grandparents. You try to understand what they are speaking because it contains a lot more meaning than its words.
This novel hits the right chord of readers' hearts in such a way that you won't even realise. It is a story which will stay with you for years to come.
Recommended if you are looking for a slow, and simple story, trying to deal with the high-lows of life.
Happy Reading!!
Very simplistically and realistically executed, Peach, talks about the struggles in the life of an artist or any other normal person. Inability to focus, blaming others and finding excuses while procrastinating the work. Not just the work related struggles, but struggles in maintaining relationships, romantic or otherwise.
The entire novel feels like an experience. As if you are talking to your grandparents. You try to understand what they are speaking because it contains a lot more meaning than its words.
This novel hits the right chord of readers' hearts in such a way that you won't even realise. It is a story which will stay with you for years to come.
Recommended if you are looking for a slow, and simple story, trying to deal with the high-lows of life.
Happy Reading!!
January 24, 2019
To read a book and find yourself hooked after a chapter is damn good writing.
To read a book and find yourself hooked after the very first page is pure magic.
I'd like to thank Wayne Barton for giving me the opportunity to read Peach before release in return for an honest review.
I fell so deeply in love with each character, each relationship I found myself invested in. Hal is a beautiful creation he's really something special. I found it was Freddie I resonated with so much. I'm not sure if it was because of his initial itch to travel to escape or his comfort in finally finding home in a quiet secluded place , but I felt it.
Incredible description from start to finish which has actually made me want to visit Idaho , somewhere that has never been on my bucket list before! A fantastic read.
To read a book and find yourself hooked after the very first page is pure magic.
I'd like to thank Wayne Barton for giving me the opportunity to read Peach before release in return for an honest review.
I fell so deeply in love with each character, each relationship I found myself invested in. Hal is a beautiful creation he's really something special. I found it was Freddie I resonated with so much. I'm not sure if it was because of his initial itch to travel to escape or his comfort in finally finding home in a quiet secluded place , but I felt it.
Incredible description from start to finish which has actually made me want to visit Idaho , somewhere that has never been on my bucket list before! A fantastic read.
March 21, 2019
Peach is an exceptionally written and exceptionally layered novel. Every character and relationship is developed wonderfully, the dialogue between the characters is rich and believable and the story itself sucks you into its own pace.
This really is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. It is so understated and uncomplicated. I devoured it in a few days. Rich with quotable passages, Peach makes you think... it deeply affected me and made me think about my own life and choices, what makes me happy and what do I need.
I found myself nervously getting towards the end and wanting the story to just continue- but the end.... having seen other reviews, I was concerned what was waiting, but when I finished, I had a huge smile on my face and I thought it was wrapped up perfectly.
Other reviews of this book have described it as an 'instant classic' and I have to agree.
This really is one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. It is so understated and uncomplicated. I devoured it in a few days. Rich with quotable passages, Peach makes you think... it deeply affected me and made me think about my own life and choices, what makes me happy and what do I need.
I found myself nervously getting towards the end and wanting the story to just continue- but the end.... having seen other reviews, I was concerned what was waiting, but when I finished, I had a huge smile on my face and I thought it was wrapped up perfectly.
Other reviews of this book have described it as an 'instant classic' and I have to agree.
February 8, 2019
I enjoyed the majority of the story and most of the characters, however I felt myself constantly jarred by the writing style. I found most of the sentences to be too wordy and the dialogue felt unnatural and clunky to me. But that could totally just be that I just don't click with the writing style, because as I said I really enjoyed the story for the most part! Towards the end of the book events felt a bit rushed but leading up to that, the descriptions of Idaho were lovely and you got a definite sense of atmosphere!
February 10, 2019
Not my usual genre so was a bit of a slow burner for me but once we got to the growing relationships I was hooked. I suppose it's a love story but not a romantic kind. You see someone fall in love with a town thousands of miles away from 'home' and fall in love with the people in it. He finds a second family there who have more of an impact on his life than his actual family and it teaches you that that's OK. Follow your heart and your dreams and home is where you feel it should be.
July 30, 2019
This book was sent to me by the author for my honest review. And my honest opinion, is that I need more from this author. This book was an amazing story about life choices, how every choice we make affects us, new friendships, old friendships, loss, heartbreak, and also how to open up your heart again. It was simply amazing.
February 22, 2019
I was sent a pdf copy of this book via email. And I must say I am thankful that email exists so that I had the utmost privilege to read this beautiful and poignant story.
If anyone reading this review ever has an opportunity to read Peach I insist you jump at the chance!!
If anyone reading this review ever has an opportunity to read Peach I insist you jump at the chance!!
December 24, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and literally couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. Highly recommend reading this book right from the beginning until the end.
January 28, 2019
As is evident from my start and finish dates for Peach, this book was un-put-downable! It’s thought provoking, real and deep. It takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, and draws you into the characters and their stories. It is one of those books that you will be thinking about, long after you finish reading it. Wonderful.
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