Miriam, Daniel and Me

by Euron Griffith

Griffith’s first novel in English is a gripping story of relationships and simmering unrest in 1960s Gwynedd, driven by love, jealousy, and vendetta.

260 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2020

Reviews

[Julie Anderson]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, about growing up in Wales in the 70s and later. I found many shared cultural reference points, even though I didn't grow up there, so I suspect I'm about the same age as the protagonist. This was also particular to place, however, about Welsh identity and the forces which shape it, but always done with a light touch. Deft not deadening. The characters were engaging and authentic, their interactions often funny and the dramas and tensions of small town/village life were captured with skill and precision. Highly recommended.

[Rajiv]

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Miriam, Daniel and Me is a compelling family saga that takes you on an unforgettable journey across Wales.

Family sagas have always been one of my favorite type of novels to read. My very first book was Master of the Game by Sidney Sheldon when I was a boy (which told the story of a family across three generations). Similarly, Miriam, Daniel and Me also showcases the ambitions, heartbreaks, and turmoil of the Meredith Family. What I really liked was how the author highlights how unpredictable life is, but no matter which way it takes you, there’s always hope for a better future. I loved the main characters, and my heart went out to Miriam. The story ends in a bittersweet manner that had me in tears.

The author covers a variety of topics like religion, mindsets and culture of the Welsh during the 60s, which I found interesting. I also enjoyed the subtle nuances and similarities between each generation, even if the circumstances varied.

However, there were two things that I had difficulty with. For one, the story shifts timelines randomly between chapters and threw me off. I would have preferred if the author listed a date or timeline to give the reader a heads up of which character the chapter focuses on. Secondly, there were some characters like Gerry, Hoppy and Moonglow who were interesting. I thought they were pivotal to the characters and the plot, but they appear only for a few scenes, make their mark, and leave. Hence, apart from the main characters, I felt like none of the supporting characters were memorable.

Apart from that, this was very well written for a debut novel and I enjoyed reading it.

[Honestmamreader]

2.5

It was so nice to read a book set in my part of the world; North Wales. Seeing the odd Welsh word dotted around the storyline made me proud of my language.

This story is self explanatory in the title really. It's about Miriam, Daniel and Me (who is their child) and the narrative takes us on a journey of their lives.

Miriam, Daniel and Me is a touching tale of family and how each generation differs slightly in their choices and way of living.

The characters were very engaging and well rounded. It felt like we were a part of their family as we got to learn more about them.

[Angi Plant]

This is a skilfully told tale, of unrequited love, heartbreaks day the what ifs we all think of.
It is set in Wales at a time of unrest, and explores the deeper subjects of religion, children born out of wedlock. It oozes with colourful imagery and prose that will keep you turning the pages. A rich, family saga that gives a varied, believable tale that sinks into you like a warm knife through butter.
I really enjoyed this and if you enjoy true to everyday family sagas, you’re bound to enjoy this.

[Ceri Evans]

This is an endearing and thoughtful novel about how everything can change around you, but love can remain...

As a Welsh reader, I really enjoyed the Welsh cultural references and "feel" of the book. It always makes me proud to see an author not "sell out" and write something that means something to them, rather than catering for the masses.

The structure of the novel is creative and complex, as it spans three different generations and jumps between them all. It is usually easy to follow, though.

I was happy with the ending, but only wish it could have been a bit longer to find out a bit more about Miriam and Daniel's son.

⭐⭐⭐

[Louise]

Reading a story set in Wales was always going to be special. I loved the way the characters were connected and how the story was woven into one that you couldn’t stop thinking about even after you finished reading it. Always a sign of a very good book.