Autumn Daffodils - Charlie's Story (Autumn Daffodils #1)
Published July 12th 2019 by P&C Turnham, Kindle Edition 284 pages
This is the first book in the two-part "Autumn Daffodils" story.
Five extraordinary people, having retired early in order to escape their past, find themselves reliving the very past they came to the 'Village' to forget. What unites the group is the guilt, shame or sorrow they have each tried so hard to leave behind. As compelling as each of the characters proves to be, it's Charlie's heartbreaking account of his affair with Joanna which ultimately proves to have repercussions for the whole group.
A gentle humour conceals a less obvious but thought provoking narrative layered beneath the story. Tragic one moment and emotionally uplifting the next "Charlie's Story" will make you laugh and cry in equal measure. The story gathers pace like a roller-coaster leading inexorably towards a dramatic final chapter where in one heart stopping moment Charlie's life is changed forever. The final chapter will leave you utterly breathless but it's not the end, this is merely the starting point for "Joanna's Story".
UK Book Reviews:
Best read this year by a new author. Couldn't put it down. Laughed and cried all the way through. Can't wait to read the sequel "Joanna's Story". Richard Jewell
Five ordinary people with a more than ordinary past. Loved this book, had meant to keep it for a holiday read but once I started reading I couldn't put it down. Full of surprises and twists and a very enjoyable read. Now waiting for Joanna's Story to arrive! Jane Spring
Behind affable facades lie the real stories. The setting is unusual, a retirement village and a close-knit group of friends. But they've never spoken to each other about the big events of their lives. There's a new arrival in the village and he helps them open up. The Big Bang in the City, the Falklands War, the SAS in Uganda, the heady 60s drug culture, all feature and there's a passionate love affair. The author's style is open, uncomplicated. As he says in his intro, as he wrote he came to live inside each of his characters and that shows. They've done well in life, better than most of us, they've flown high. But it's credible. And just as you think the tale might be drawing to the kind of conclusion that you'd expect in a novel about our later days, there's a twist, a new avenue opens up, and this I understand, for I've only read one of the author's two novels, will open up next time around. Recommended. Zen stream
Looking forward to next book.Make sure you have plenty of time when you pick up this. Once in your hands you will not want to put it down. S Smith
Difficult to put down.Charlie's story was a great read. Not only entertaining but aroused real affection for some of the characters and frustration with others. I was very keen to get on to Joanna's story. Hazel
User Reviews
Rating: really liked it
Another exceptional read...... The book starts out very confusing with no background who these people are, how old they are and why they are. Having just finished "None Stood Taller" I got this book thinking Charlies Story was a continuation of the character from the previous book....I waited half the book for this link to be developed. I really like the stories and characters and maybe intro would help as to how old these people are and what year it is.
Rating: really liked it
Disappointing I loved another book by Peter Turnham and really looked forward to this one. From the start it jumped from being vague to outrageously detailed about context. Couldn’t figure out the characters except for a deaf old lady and a smoker with a hack. Just shy of halfway I closed the book and gave up.
Rating: really liked it
This book illustrates how important it is to realize that everyone has a story even if they don’t think they do.
I was touched by the author’s ability to describe the common characteristics of the chronic alcoholic.He really painted the picture from the standpoint of those who have to deal with them. Thank you, Peter Turnham.. I’m now reading Autumn Leaves Joanna”s Story, having been blown away by None Stood Taller. I’m saving None Stood Taller the Final Year for a treat when I finish Joanna’s Story. How important it is for present generations to get a glimpse into the sacrifices made during World War II for the cause of freedom.
Rating: really liked it
SuperbI read a lot of books and this one has hit the spot
I am an older person with many memories and really appreciated how well written and crafted this book is.
It creates real characters in depth
I have never written a review before but this book deserves the best.
Well done
Michael stevenson
Rating: really liked it
I laughed and criedYou can always tell how a book affects you with the emotions you feel and the speed you read it. Over four afternoons I read this charming and at times hilarious book. I had read None Stood Taller so decided to go to the authors first book. Now I have just bought the sequel to this one.
Rating: really liked it
A sweet story of a group of friends in a retirement village.
Rating: really liked it
thoroughly enjoyed this book I lovedI loved getting to know all the characters in the unique way the author presented their stories. I loved them all!
Rating: really liked it
Awesome I didn’t want this book to end! I couldn’t stop reading ! Heartwarming and wonderful. Glad to read Joanna’s story now!!
Rating: really liked it
Loved itAt first I thought I didn't want to read about these people,get attached only to have them pass away. But it surprised me with each chapter. Going right for Joannas story.
Rating: really liked it
SmileLove and Laughter is what the story is about. I enjoyed it tremendously. The age of people cannot diminish the joy in life.
Rating: really liked it
I thought it very entertaining, hilarious at times and a little sadness.
Quite the ingredients
Rating: really liked it
Love is always in styleA feel good story. We all have a story and. Most of us enjoy. Sharing our thoughts there are always smiles and tears.looking forward to the next book
