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The Secret Life of Luke Livingstone
Girl meets boy. They fall in love, and they marry.
For thirty years they share one another's lives.
That should have been the end of the story.
Luke Livingstone is a lucky man. He's a father and grandfather, a respected solicitor, a pillar of the community. He has a loving wife in Eilish, children who adore him and an idyllic home in the Oxfordshire countryside.
But Luke is struggling with an unbearable secret, one that is close to destroying him. All his life, Luke has hidden the truth about himself - a truth so fundamental that it will shatter his family, rock his community and leave him an outcast.
Luke has nowhere left to run. He must either end his life, or become the woman he knows himself to be - whatever the cost. His family is tested to its limits, as each of them is forced to consider what makes a person essentially themselves. What do you do when you find that your husband - your father, your son - is not who you thought? Can you ever love him again?
A beautiful and dramatic portrayal of a family in turmoil.
For thirty years they share one another's lives.
That should have been the end of the story.
Luke Livingstone is a lucky man. He's a father and grandfather, a respected solicitor, a pillar of the community. He has a loving wife in Eilish, children who adore him and an idyllic home in the Oxfordshire countryside.
But Luke is struggling with an unbearable secret, one that is close to destroying him. All his life, Luke has hidden the truth about himself - a truth so fundamental that it will shatter his family, rock his community and leave him an outcast.
Luke has nowhere left to run. He must either end his life, or become the woman he knows himself to be - whatever the cost. His family is tested to its limits, as each of them is forced to consider what makes a person essentially themselves. What do you do when you find that your husband - your father, your son - is not who you thought? Can you ever love him again?
A beautiful and dramatic portrayal of a family in turmoil.
368 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2015
About the author
Charity Norman
10 books487 followersCharity was born in Uganda, brought up in draughty vicarages in Yorkshire and Birmingham, met her future husband under a lorry in the Sahara. She worked as a barrister in York Chambers, until - realising that her three children had barely met her - she moved with her family to New Zealand and began to write.
After the Fall/Second Chances was a Richard & Judy and World Book Night title, The New Woman/ The Secret Life of Luke Livingstone a BBC Radio 2 choice. See You in September (2017) was shortlisted in the Ngaio Marsh Awards. The Secrets of Strangers was a Radio 2 choice and shortlisted for the Ngaio Marsh and Ned Kelly Awards. Her seventh, Remember Me, was published in March 2022.
After the Fall/Second Chances was a Richard & Judy and World Book Night title, The New Woman/ The Secret Life of Luke Livingstone a BBC Radio 2 choice. See You in September (2017) was shortlisted in the Ngaio Marsh Awards. The Secrets of Strangers was a Radio 2 choice and shortlisted for the Ngaio Marsh and Ned Kelly Awards. Her seventh, Remember Me, was published in March 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
February 24, 2015
Luke Livingstone had it all – a father and grandfather, he had been married to the woman of his dreams for three decades. The love he had for Eilish was reciprocated deeply; his two children Simon and Kate adored him. The home they all loved was in the Oxfordshire countryside and set amongst an idyllic landscape; he was well respected in the community and in his job as a solicitor. Why then was Luke travelling the train into London with dark thoughts? Thoughts that had consumed him for so long – all his life in fact – and were leading him to the point he was at? And the old woman seated beside him – could she read his mind? What would her words do to Luke’s state of mind?
Luke must protect his family from the stark truth he had hidden for decades. But could he? The devastation he knew he would cause would shatter his family – could he do that to the ones he loved so dearly? And could he do it to himself? He had played a part for so long…
Eilish was looking forward to her future with Luke – their thirtieth wedding anniversary was fast approaching; Simon and Carmela were expecting their second child any day, and four year old Nico was a delight. And they were so proud of Kate who had been working on the archaeology dig site in Israel for the past six weeks; both Eilish and Luke were looking forward to seeing her again when she arrived home in the next few days.
But suddenly, in the blink of an eye, the world as they knew it changed forever. Would the family survive? Could they possibly survive?
What an amazing book! I was absolutely blown away by this novel by Charity Norman. The dramatic and heart wrenching portrayal of a family in crisis; the author’s words were beautifully written with understanding, care and compassion. I have only read one other by Norman, The Son-in-Law which I also loved, but this one is outstanding. I have no hesitation in recommending it highly.
With thanks to TRR and Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
Luke must protect his family from the stark truth he had hidden for decades. But could he? The devastation he knew he would cause would shatter his family – could he do that to the ones he loved so dearly? And could he do it to himself? He had played a part for so long…
Eilish was looking forward to her future with Luke – their thirtieth wedding anniversary was fast approaching; Simon and Carmela were expecting their second child any day, and four year old Nico was a delight. And they were so proud of Kate who had been working on the archaeology dig site in Israel for the past six weeks; both Eilish and Luke were looking forward to seeing her again when she arrived home in the next few days.
But suddenly, in the blink of an eye, the world as they knew it changed forever. Would the family survive? Could they possibly survive?
What an amazing book! I was absolutely blown away by this novel by Charity Norman. The dramatic and heart wrenching portrayal of a family in crisis; the author’s words were beautifully written with understanding, care and compassion. I have only read one other by Norman, The Son-in-Law which I also loved, but this one is outstanding. I have no hesitation in recommending it highly.
With thanks to TRR and Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
August 6, 2015
The New Woman is perhaps Charity Norman’s best book to date for sheer emotional impact and a beautifully written life story – some really wonderful characters and set in my part of the world which made it even better from my point of view.
Luke has been living a lie for all of his adult life. When we meet him at the beginning of the novel, he is seriously considering ending it all – then a chance encounter on a train makes him rethink that choice but in order to carry on living he must necessarily cause pain to those he loves…
I really felt this one – there is a beauty in the narrative that just brings the characters to vivid life, a hidden turmoil that finally surfaces changing everyone it touches in different ways. Taking as it’s theme a subject I will be honest and say I know little to nothing about, the story has huge impact and a learning curve for all concerned – not just the characters but the reader as well.
The strength of this novel lies in the interactions of the dramatic players – from the moment Luke says the words that will change everyone’s life to the point of resolution you will be enthralled, often slightly weepy (that might possibly just be me) and rooting desperately for a happy outcome for all.
An absolute must read.
Luke has been living a lie for all of his adult life. When we meet him at the beginning of the novel, he is seriously considering ending it all – then a chance encounter on a train makes him rethink that choice but in order to carry on living he must necessarily cause pain to those he loves…
I really felt this one – there is a beauty in the narrative that just brings the characters to vivid life, a hidden turmoil that finally surfaces changing everyone it touches in different ways. Taking as it’s theme a subject I will be honest and say I know little to nothing about, the story has huge impact and a learning curve for all concerned – not just the characters but the reader as well.
The strength of this novel lies in the interactions of the dramatic players – from the moment Luke says the words that will change everyone’s life to the point of resolution you will be enthralled, often slightly weepy (that might possibly just be me) and rooting desperately for a happy outcome for all.
An absolute must read.
January 18, 2015
Supposing after thirty years the man you married comes out with an admission of a secret that makes you wonder if you ever knew him at all? This is the situation facing Luke Livingstone’s wife, Eilish. The admission and decision from Luke has repercussions within the family that affect not only his relationship with his son Simon and his, daughter Kate but also Simon’s children. Initially I found this quite an interesting read as the reactions of how Eilish, Kate and Simon handle Luke’s admission were very believable. Because the book is told from Luke’s point of view as well as that of each of his family members, the reader gets a good idea of the thought processes of each person. It is easy to imagine how you might react in a similar situation. Although the danger with hypotheticals, is that often we might imagine we would react one way and yet if actually placed in that position our reactions might surprise us. i
By about half way through the novel I started to lose interest a bit. This was largely because the reactions tended to keep going over the same ground without much new being added. Also it became obvious from early on which way the story was going to play out, making it predictable. Despite that, I wasn't convinced by the ending.
The writing and study of people was good. I’m sure there will be a lot of people who will enjoy this novel but for me, Charity Norman has written better and more engaging stories.
Thanks to The Reading Room and Allen & Unwin for my advanced reading copy to read and review.
By about half way through the novel I started to lose interest a bit. This was largely because the reactions tended to keep going over the same ground without much new being added. Also it became obvious from early on which way the story was going to play out, making it predictable. Despite that, I wasn't convinced by the ending.
The writing and study of people was good. I’m sure there will be a lot of people who will enjoy this novel but for me, Charity Norman has written better and more engaging stories.
Thanks to The Reading Room and Allen & Unwin for my advanced reading copy to read and review.
March 18, 2015
The Secret Life of Luke Livingstone is an emotionally powerful story of a family in crisis from Charity Norman.
A respected solicitor and beloved husband, father and grandfather, Luke Livingston seems to have it all, but he has a secret with the potential to destroy it all.
With thought provoking insight and sensitivity, Norman tells the story from four different points of view - Luke's, his wife's Eilish's, and their children's Simon's and Kate's.
I couldn't help but admire Luke for his courage in finally following his heart. His despair and heartbreak is very affecting as he struggles with the realities of his situation. I rejoiced in each tentative step he took towards reconciling with his own truth.
"Because I've come to the end of the road, Eilish. The very end. I can't go on, I was facing a choice last night: to end my life, or to accept what I've always really been."
I sympathised with Eilish's shock and feelings of betrayal, and the initial reactions of Luke's adult children, Kate and Simon, when Luke's secret is revealed. Norman portrays their confusion, anger and grief with believability as their comfortable world is turned upside down. I was furious with Simon's extreme reaction, tempered only slightly when Norman revealed the awful memories Luke's announcement stirred in him.
"Perhaps we never really understand our families at all, any of us. Perhaps those we love the most are really a bunch of strangers, with secret thoughts and inner lives."
I was hugely angered by the bigotry displayed by many of the characters. It appalls me that such a level of ignorance and hatred still exists in today's society. The author does a wonderful job of educating the reader about gender and sexual identity without lecturing.
The novel is well written, drawing the reader into the characters lives, but I did feel as if the story stalled somewhat in the middle and its progression was somewhat predictable.
A sensitive and thought-provoking story The Secret Life of Luke Livingstone is a wonderful novel and deserves to be read widely.
December 27, 2015
Read it all in one sitting, right through the night.
I think what I loved most about this novel was the utmost respect and compassion with which the author treats Lucia's story. It's clear that she has done a huge amount of research on the subject of trans issues and how it is for a person to come out as trans and begin the transition to the gender they know themselves to be.
As a cis queer woman I don't know what it's like to be trans but I am immersed in the LGBT+ community and am friends with several people who are trans/non-binary, and it's so refreshing to see trans women represented in such a way - by an author who is clearly understanding and empathetic, who addresses the main difficulties that trans women face (including the extremely high suicide rate and the rate of violence committed against trans women). And honestly, I'm so happy that things ended well for Lucia - so often, in media about queer people, the stories end in tragedy. In a world that is becoming increasingly aware of trans people, in the wake of the demonisation of Bruce Jenner, and the recent suicide of Leelah Alcorn, and the violent deaths of countless other trans women, especially in the US, where the "trans panic" defence is still legally admissible for the murder of a trans person - in this world as it is right now, positive media about trans women is absolutely essential. So that those of us who are not trans can learn and become more empathetic. So that the real-life Lukes of this world can be brave and hopeful instead of feeling themselves forced to turn to the noose. Charity Norman's novel is a great read in its own right, but it also beautifully addresses this need. I'll definitely be recommending this novel to anyone and everyone, and in the meantime I'll be reading the rest of Norman's work.
I think what I loved most about this novel was the utmost respect and compassion with which the author treats Lucia's story. It's clear that she has done a huge amount of research on the subject of trans issues and how it is for a person to come out as trans and begin the transition to the gender they know themselves to be.
As a cis queer woman I don't know what it's like to be trans but I am immersed in the LGBT+ community and am friends with several people who are trans/non-binary, and it's so refreshing to see trans women represented in such a way - by an author who is clearly understanding and empathetic, who addresses the main difficulties that trans women face (including the extremely high suicide rate and the rate of violence committed against trans women). And honestly, I'm so happy that things ended well for Lucia - so often, in media about queer people, the stories end in tragedy. In a world that is becoming increasingly aware of trans people, in the wake of the demonisation of Bruce Jenner, and the recent suicide of Leelah Alcorn, and the violent deaths of countless other trans women, especially in the US, where the "trans panic" defence is still legally admissible for the murder of a trans person - in this world as it is right now, positive media about trans women is absolutely essential. So that those of us who are not trans can learn and become more empathetic. So that the real-life Lukes of this world can be brave and hopeful instead of feeling themselves forced to turn to the noose. Charity Norman's novel is a great read in its own right, but it also beautifully addresses this need. I'll definitely be recommending this novel to anyone and everyone, and in the meantime I'll be reading the rest of Norman's work.
March 8, 2015
Eilish Livingstone is excited to be planning a big bash for her and Luke's 30th wedding anniversary, followed by a long awaited idyll in Italy.
They are a loving couple with three children - Simon who is married and and awaiting the birth of his second child; Charlotte who died at birth and is remembered by a tree in the garden; and Kate who has just returned from an archeological dig.
But Luke is struggling with an unbearable secret; one that is going to destroy his life one way or another.
And Luke's choice brings to the surface a shameful secret that Simon has been hiding - one that may destroy everything he holds dear.
I was not expecting great things from this book - how wrong I was!
The story is told from four different points of view - Luke's, Eilish's, Simon's and Kate's, giving us indepth insights into the emotional rollercoaster Lukes choice inflicts on himself, his family, friends and workmates.
Charity Norman deals with transgender issues with great perception, empathy and not a little humour.
This is a great story, well written and insightful. I will be reading her other works.
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways, publishers Allen & Unwin and author Charity Norman for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
They are a loving couple with three children - Simon who is married and and awaiting the birth of his second child; Charlotte who died at birth and is remembered by a tree in the garden; and Kate who has just returned from an archeological dig.
But Luke is struggling with an unbearable secret; one that is going to destroy his life one way or another.
And Luke's choice brings to the surface a shameful secret that Simon has been hiding - one that may destroy everything he holds dear.
I was not expecting great things from this book - how wrong I was!
The story is told from four different points of view - Luke's, Eilish's, Simon's and Kate's, giving us indepth insights into the emotional rollercoaster Lukes choice inflicts on himself, his family, friends and workmates.
Charity Norman deals with transgender issues with great perception, empathy and not a little humour.
This is a great story, well written and insightful. I will be reading her other works.
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways, publishers Allen & Unwin and author Charity Norman for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2015
A beautifully written book which compassionately deals with gender identity and the ripple effect on all the family. Not an easy read in places, but obviously thoroughly researched when taking into account everyone's emotional reaction to their father/son/grandfather huge life changing decision. Also rather topical at the moment with Bruce Jenner's real life announcement. 4 stars.
March 11, 2015
Luke and Eilish have been happily married for thirty years. Luke is a lawyer and Eilish a teacher. They have two children – Simon who is a vet and is now embarking on a family of his own and Kate, an archeologist who is a free spirit and feminist. Eilish thought she knew everything there was to know about her husband and never for a second did she think he was keeping a secret from her.
A huge secret.
Luke Livingstone has gone on for long enough and knows that he cannot keep going as he has been anymore. As far as he sees it, he has a choice. He was going to take a nice, clean way out. That way he didn’t have to blow up his marriage, embarrass his wife and scar his children. He didn’t have to face their probably rejection of him. But at the last moment, Luke cannot go through with it. He decides that he must choose the other option. The option that involves him coming clean to everyone and beginning a new life.
This is a super hard review to write because I don’t want to spoil anything but at the same time there’s so much I could talk about. What I would like to do is applaud Charity Norman and the incredibly sensitive and thoughtful way she handled the subject. It’s something I can honestly say I haven’t read about before and I found it really interesting. The book is split into different viewpoints, including Luke’s which I found really helpful for getting a clear picture of what was happening and everyone’s individual reactions to it.
It was surprisingly easy to put myself into the positions of various characters in this story even though I have little, if anything in common with any of them. Luke and Eilish could be my parents – married for thirty years, very happily. Or as Eilish assumes, very happily. When Luke drops his bombshell she’s astounded. Disbelieving. Maybe even sickened. It’s not something that would’ve ever crossed her mind. Not something that would cross most people’s minds I would imagine. She wants to sweep it under the carpet, pretend it never happened and they just go back to the way they were before Luke brought this topic up. Luke and Eilish’s two children are told and they react in very different ways. Simon is horrified, disgusted. He can’t bear the thought of it and it stirs up some very humiliating and painful memories from a time in his past, when he was at university. He goes so far as to cut off all contact with his father, branding him horrible names, refusing to allow Luke to see his grandson and then newborn baby granddaughter. Simon begins spiraling downward in hate and fear and loathing and doesn’t seem to realise how much he’s affecting his own family until it’s almost too late. Kate tries to be cool with it. She’s less rigid than Simon. But at the same time, she struggles as well, because this is her father.
But it’s Luke where this story shines. His bravery and courage and determination give this story its backbone because it’s done in such a believable way. He knows what he could be giving up but at the same time, he has to make a change for himself. This is the first Charity Norman novel I have read and it’s made me a big fan. There’s such a gentle and sympathetic touch, a real thoughtful exploration of what someone in Luke’s situation might feel like and might want to do. There are varied reactions and Norman has pulled no punches with some intolerance and even abuse, both physical and mental. But it’s a slow and careful process towards understanding and maybe even acceptance with some love and support. And I enjoyed the process very much.
A huge secret.
Luke Livingstone has gone on for long enough and knows that he cannot keep going as he has been anymore. As far as he sees it, he has a choice. He was going to take a nice, clean way out. That way he didn’t have to blow up his marriage, embarrass his wife and scar his children. He didn’t have to face their probably rejection of him. But at the last moment, Luke cannot go through with it. He decides that he must choose the other option. The option that involves him coming clean to everyone and beginning a new life.
This is a super hard review to write because I don’t want to spoil anything but at the same time there’s so much I could talk about. What I would like to do is applaud Charity Norman and the incredibly sensitive and thoughtful way she handled the subject. It’s something I can honestly say I haven’t read about before and I found it really interesting. The book is split into different viewpoints, including Luke’s which I found really helpful for getting a clear picture of what was happening and everyone’s individual reactions to it.
It was surprisingly easy to put myself into the positions of various characters in this story even though I have little, if anything in common with any of them. Luke and Eilish could be my parents – married for thirty years, very happily. Or as Eilish assumes, very happily. When Luke drops his bombshell she’s astounded. Disbelieving. Maybe even sickened. It’s not something that would’ve ever crossed her mind. Not something that would cross most people’s minds I would imagine. She wants to sweep it under the carpet, pretend it never happened and they just go back to the way they were before Luke brought this topic up. Luke and Eilish’s two children are told and they react in very different ways. Simon is horrified, disgusted. He can’t bear the thought of it and it stirs up some very humiliating and painful memories from a time in his past, when he was at university. He goes so far as to cut off all contact with his father, branding him horrible names, refusing to allow Luke to see his grandson and then newborn baby granddaughter. Simon begins spiraling downward in hate and fear and loathing and doesn’t seem to realise how much he’s affecting his own family until it’s almost too late. Kate tries to be cool with it. She’s less rigid than Simon. But at the same time, she struggles as well, because this is her father.
But it’s Luke where this story shines. His bravery and courage and determination give this story its backbone because it’s done in such a believable way. He knows what he could be giving up but at the same time, he has to make a change for himself. This is the first Charity Norman novel I have read and it’s made me a big fan. There’s such a gentle and sympathetic touch, a real thoughtful exploration of what someone in Luke’s situation might feel like and might want to do. There are varied reactions and Norman has pulled no punches with some intolerance and even abuse, both physical and mental. But it’s a slow and careful process towards understanding and maybe even acceptance with some love and support. And I enjoyed the process very much.
May 5, 2020
Magyarul.Luke Livingstone titkos élete. Az eleje, az állítólag művelt, tanult családtagok reakciója nem volt életszerű, de a végére kisimultak a dolgok.
May 24, 2016
55 year old Luke is a loving father and grandfather as well as a highly respected solicitor, but his outer successes hide a life of turmoil - he has always known he should have been born female, and as his thirtieth wedding anniversary approaches, he knows he has to tell his family before the inner pain literally kills him.
This story should have been hard-hitting and emotional as his wife, mother and children try to comes to terms with his shocking revelation whilst he begins the complex transgender process, but instead it felt superficial. It started well and I felt for the characters, hence the three stars, but they weren't rounded enough, they weren't deep enough; the author only skimmed the surface of such a raw subject, and the rushed ending made it feel all the more simplistic.
This is the third 'family issues' book I've read by Charity Norman - The Son-in-Law was a powerful 5 star story of forgiveness, whereas After the Fall was a 2 star boreathon whose subject matter I can't even remember. I'm beginning to wonder - was The Son In law a fluke?
This story should have been hard-hitting and emotional as his wife, mother and children try to comes to terms with his shocking revelation whilst he begins the complex transgender process, but instead it felt superficial. It started well and I felt for the characters, hence the three stars, but they weren't rounded enough, they weren't deep enough; the author only skimmed the surface of such a raw subject, and the rushed ending made it feel all the more simplistic.
This is the third 'family issues' book I've read by Charity Norman - The Son-in-Law was a powerful 5 star story of forgiveness, whereas After the Fall was a 2 star boreathon whose subject matter I can't even remember. I'm beginning to wonder - was The Son In law a fluke?
March 9, 2021
A thought provoking topic and one that has featured a lot in recent press- gender identification. The central character is a 50year old man who has always felt female but family and social pressures meant he lived a make life. Recurrent bouts of depression eventually made him seriously consider suicidal, a chance encounter reversed this decision but gave him the courage to ‘come out’ and start living as a woman. People’s reactions were varied, sadly somewhat predictable. I am not sure how I would feel if my husband of 30 years announced that he had always wanted to be female, his children also responded with disbelief, anger and shock. I didn’t particularly enjoy this book as I found it overly dramatic, it’s ‘happy’ ending did not seem plausible but it is food for thought.
October 8, 2021
Absolutely brilliant! Cannot recommend this book enough. Sensitive, compassionate, tender, real, thought provoking, and an excellent, outstanding, fantastic look at gender and what it is to love.
One of the best books I have read.
Full review to follow shortly.
One of the best books I have read.
Full review to follow shortly.
February 24, 2018
A truly gripping read that had me completely engrossed from start to finish. A very thought-provoking story was a joy to read. I loved that the book didn't just focus on Luke's story but the people around him too. The story was told from Luke's wife and two children's point of view as well as his own. Such a brilliant read. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
April 11, 2022
A very good read about a sensitive subject, which was handled very well. Maybe it was tied up a bit too neatly at the end, but sometimes you need a happy ending.
September 6, 2015
Time taken to read - 2.5 days
Pages - 374
Publisher - Allen & Unwin
Blurb from Goodreads
Luke Livingstone is a lucky man. He's a respected solicitor, a father and grandfather, a pillar of the community. He has a loving wife and an idyllic home in the Oxfordshire countryside. Yet Luke is struggling with an unbearable secret, and it's threatening to destroy him.
All his life, Luke has hidden the truth about himself and his identity. It's a truth so fundamental that it will shatter his family, rock his community and leave him outcast. But Luke has nowhere left to run, and to continue living, he must become the person - the woman - he knows himself to be, whatever the cost.
My Review
Luke Livingstone is about to end his life, he has it all planned. He must save his family from his shame, he cannot live with his secret any longer. However, a chance encounter on a train makes Luke confront his demons and embrace his life long dream. In doing so and living the life he has always wanted, he may hurt everyone he loves and ruin everything he has ever known.
This is honestly not a book I would normally have picked up, just the title wouldn't grab me and I haven't heard of it before. This is the story of Luke Livingstone, coming to terms with what he has always known and embracing it. It is told through his voice and excerpts from Eilish, Luke, Kate, Lucia & a small part from Simon. How one mans actions and journeys can impact on a whole family and how they each deal with it.
It is a very emotive story, dealing with a subject that touches so many lives yet is still something we hear not very much of. Funnily enough, it isn't too long ago Caitlyn Jenner embraced the world, maybe this book and positive media may make it a more acceptable world so people aren't having to hide for years from who they really are.
The book examines relationships, friendships, love, fear, violence, marriage and trans gender related issues to name only some of the themes touched upon on this book. I found it hard to put down and I felt for most of the characters having to deal with such a huge issue it evoked empathy and really makes the reader think. 4/5 for me this time, this is my first time reading this author and I would read her again. Thanks so much to RealReaders for sending me a copy of this in exchange for an honest review and introducing me to a new author.
Pages - 374
Publisher - Allen & Unwin
Blurb from Goodreads
Luke Livingstone is a lucky man. He's a respected solicitor, a father and grandfather, a pillar of the community. He has a loving wife and an idyllic home in the Oxfordshire countryside. Yet Luke is struggling with an unbearable secret, and it's threatening to destroy him.
All his life, Luke has hidden the truth about himself and his identity. It's a truth so fundamental that it will shatter his family, rock his community and leave him outcast. But Luke has nowhere left to run, and to continue living, he must become the person - the woman - he knows himself to be, whatever the cost.
My Review
Luke Livingstone is about to end his life, he has it all planned. He must save his family from his shame, he cannot live with his secret any longer. However, a chance encounter on a train makes Luke confront his demons and embrace his life long dream. In doing so and living the life he has always wanted, he may hurt everyone he loves and ruin everything he has ever known.
This is honestly not a book I would normally have picked up, just the title wouldn't grab me and I haven't heard of it before. This is the story of Luke Livingstone, coming to terms with what he has always known and embracing it. It is told through his voice and excerpts from Eilish, Luke, Kate, Lucia & a small part from Simon. How one mans actions and journeys can impact on a whole family and how they each deal with it.
It is a very emotive story, dealing with a subject that touches so many lives yet is still something we hear not very much of. Funnily enough, it isn't too long ago Caitlyn Jenner embraced the world, maybe this book and positive media may make it a more acceptable world so people aren't having to hide for years from who they really are.
The book examines relationships, friendships, love, fear, violence, marriage and trans gender related issues to name only some of the themes touched upon on this book. I found it hard to put down and I felt for most of the characters having to deal with such a huge issue it evoked empathy and really makes the reader think. 4/5 for me this time, this is my first time reading this author and I would read her again. Thanks so much to RealReaders for sending me a copy of this in exchange for an honest review and introducing me to a new author.
May 17, 2016
Realistic, Thoughtful, Balanced…
I bought this book after a recommendation through The Book Club on Facebook and have no connection with the author apart from being a fellow member.
I’ll nail my colours to the mast before we start – I’m a transgendered writer, and I bought this book out of interest to see how other, non-trans writers tackled what can be a subject for ridicule, misplaced comedy or complete misunderstanding of the issues and problems involved with the condition. I’m happy to report that the author treats her subject in a way that is equally understanding and compassionate to all the protagonists.
The story revolves around Luke, who having been inadvertently talked out of suicide, is forced to reveal that from an early age he has felt closer to Lucia, his inner feminine persona. The story is told from a number of perspectives: Luke and his wife Eilish are told in First Person, whilst their children and Lucia are narrated in Third, which has the effect of distancing their stories a bit, whilst Luke and Eilish are raw and vivid in their despair, anger, rage, confusion and sorrow as the torment of this central revelation seems to spread further and further. All the characters are incredibly well-drawn with astounding depth and realisim, and the author has used them to illustrate a number of common reactions to such disclosures out in the real world – a clever and useful device, in that the family bonds also serve to highlight the reaction of one viewpoint to another. Throughout the book, the reactions and attitudes of each player are consistent, convincing and realistic, even as they subtly alter over the timespan of the book; I’ve met a lot of these responses in my own life, and they ring very, very true. But to my mind, this only makes the book even better.
I thought the finale was, if anything, a little rushed – I wanted more, it’s the sort of story I could have continued reading forever! The other thing very well conveyed as the book headed to its conclusion, though, was the healing power of time. Crises are resolved, facts faced, and the initial raw responses are… toned down, muted, with plenty of reflection from the main characters to give it body and resonance. It is perhaps this depth to the people involved that really made the book for me. It’s a rare quality, and one certainly to be savoured.
An easy five stars from me!
I bought this book after a recommendation through The Book Club on Facebook and have no connection with the author apart from being a fellow member.
I’ll nail my colours to the mast before we start – I’m a transgendered writer, and I bought this book out of interest to see how other, non-trans writers tackled what can be a subject for ridicule, misplaced comedy or complete misunderstanding of the issues and problems involved with the condition. I’m happy to report that the author treats her subject in a way that is equally understanding and compassionate to all the protagonists.
The story revolves around Luke, who having been inadvertently talked out of suicide, is forced to reveal that from an early age he has felt closer to Lucia, his inner feminine persona. The story is told from a number of perspectives: Luke and his wife Eilish are told in First Person, whilst their children and Lucia are narrated in Third, which has the effect of distancing their stories a bit, whilst Luke and Eilish are raw and vivid in their despair, anger, rage, confusion and sorrow as the torment of this central revelation seems to spread further and further. All the characters are incredibly well-drawn with astounding depth and realisim, and the author has used them to illustrate a number of common reactions to such disclosures out in the real world – a clever and useful device, in that the family bonds also serve to highlight the reaction of one viewpoint to another. Throughout the book, the reactions and attitudes of each player are consistent, convincing and realistic, even as they subtly alter over the timespan of the book; I’ve met a lot of these responses in my own life, and they ring very, very true. But to my mind, this only makes the book even better.
I thought the finale was, if anything, a little rushed – I wanted more, it’s the sort of story I could have continued reading forever! The other thing very well conveyed as the book headed to its conclusion, though, was the healing power of time. Crises are resolved, facts faced, and the initial raw responses are… toned down, muted, with plenty of reflection from the main characters to give it body and resonance. It is perhaps this depth to the people involved that really made the book for me. It’s a rare quality, and one certainly to be savoured.
An easy five stars from me!
October 6, 2015
As the blurb pretty much describes Luke's dilemma it is not a spoiler to state that this is a book about gender dysphoria. I had seen the book advertised but can't say I was particularly drawn to it, however I received a copy from Real Readers to review so the decision was taken out of my hands. All I can say is, I was so glad it was. This is one of the best books I've read this year. Despite my initial misgivings I was drawn in straight away and couldn't put it down.
After 55 years Luke decides that enough is enough. Despite being married for 30 years with a grown up son and daughter, he has always hidden the fact that inside he has felt he was a woman. While he loves his wife and his family, he feels incomplete and as he knows 'coming out' would hold them up to ridicule and destroy what he has, he decides to commit suicide. However he confides this to a random stranger on a train who suggests he thinks again. For whatever reason he does and instead decides to bear all to his family.
The book then follows Luke's journey from Luke to Lucia with alternating chapters giving the viewpoints of his distraught wife, his horrified and unsympathetic son and his shocked but sympathetic daughter. It is a story well told, that really gets to the heart of gender dysphoria and how it must feel to live your life in a body that you feel doesn't belong to you. I was totally engaged with the plot and really rooting for things to work out for Luke, and his family. As well as realistically portraying a family in crisis it also highlighted the ignorance and prejudice that can be found in our society despite our alleged sexual enlightenment. As to whether Luke and his family can resolve their differences I urge you to read this book and find out for yourself.
This is a thought provoking read and would make an ideal book for reading groups as it raises so many topics for discussion. I cannot recommend it highly enough and thank Real Readers for forcing my hand to read this, it was a brilliant read.
After 55 years Luke decides that enough is enough. Despite being married for 30 years with a grown up son and daughter, he has always hidden the fact that inside he has felt he was a woman. While he loves his wife and his family, he feels incomplete and as he knows 'coming out' would hold them up to ridicule and destroy what he has, he decides to commit suicide. However he confides this to a random stranger on a train who suggests he thinks again. For whatever reason he does and instead decides to bear all to his family.
The book then follows Luke's journey from Luke to Lucia with alternating chapters giving the viewpoints of his distraught wife, his horrified and unsympathetic son and his shocked but sympathetic daughter. It is a story well told, that really gets to the heart of gender dysphoria and how it must feel to live your life in a body that you feel doesn't belong to you. I was totally engaged with the plot and really rooting for things to work out for Luke, and his family. As well as realistically portraying a family in crisis it also highlighted the ignorance and prejudice that can be found in our society despite our alleged sexual enlightenment. As to whether Luke and his family can resolve their differences I urge you to read this book and find out for yourself.
This is a thought provoking read and would make an ideal book for reading groups as it raises so many topics for discussion. I cannot recommend it highly enough and thank Real Readers for forcing my hand to read this, it was a brilliant read.
January 19, 2015
Being a HUGE fan of Charity Norman I definitely give her new novel 4.5 stars. It would get a 5 but I absolutely LOVE her second novel Second Chances a teensy bit more.
Charity Norman is a masterful storyteller, drawing you into her character's lives so wholly and completely they are alive in your consciousness long after you have finished reading.
I felt so much for every character and what they were being faced with - Luke Livingstone most of all. I could tell that the research into this novel would've been immense, but in no way did that come through the story as info dumping or any other such crime, just that I felt Luke's grief, guilt, pain, indecision - on every page I read.
A wee taste.... including some spoilers....
Luke Livingstone is preparing to commit suicide. He is travelling to his London flat where a rope is ready, letters of goodbye are written and an end to his life of bitter turmoil will happen. Until he speaks to an elderly lady sitting beside him. Her husband took his own life and she tells him how selfish it was. He should not do such a thing to his wife and family. He doesn’t.
Arriving back home the next morning, wet through from the rain, he tells his wife of thirty years his terrible secret. He wants to be a woman. In fact he knows he is a woman - just born in the body of a man.
This novel tells Luke Livingstone’s story, the fallout of his announcement throughout his family and on himself. It is told masterfully by Charity Norman through his day to day dealings with his decision and flashbacks from all the characters. It is told in multiple points of view.
Brilliant.
Charity Norman is a masterful storyteller, drawing you into her character's lives so wholly and completely they are alive in your consciousness long after you have finished reading.
I felt so much for every character and what they were being faced with - Luke Livingstone most of all. I could tell that the research into this novel would've been immense, but in no way did that come through the story as info dumping or any other such crime, just that I felt Luke's grief, guilt, pain, indecision - on every page I read.
A wee taste.... including some spoilers....
Luke Livingstone is preparing to commit suicide. He is travelling to his London flat where a rope is ready, letters of goodbye are written and an end to his life of bitter turmoil will happen. Until he speaks to an elderly lady sitting beside him. Her husband took his own life and she tells him how selfish it was. He should not do such a thing to his wife and family. He doesn’t.
Arriving back home the next morning, wet through from the rain, he tells his wife of thirty years his terrible secret. He wants to be a woman. In fact he knows he is a woman - just born in the body of a man.
This novel tells Luke Livingstone’s story, the fallout of his announcement throughout his family and on himself. It is told masterfully by Charity Norman through his day to day dealings with his decision and flashbacks from all the characters. It is told in multiple points of view.
Brilliant.
January 14, 2015
The Secret Life of Luke Livingstone is a wonderful and endearing book about the struggles of a family who find out the secret hidden by their father Luke. Luke has struggled with his identity his entire life and the book follows his path to become the person who he was destined to be. The book deals with the feelings and emotions of the family and their struggle for acceptance of their father and his changing life. This book struck me unaware as I have never read anything regarding the life of transgendered people and the uphill battle they face in everyday. I was always aware that life would be difficult but did not truly understand until reading this book. The book goes futher than the mechanics of transition but enables the reader to join the heartache, darkness and then the joy and happiness as the story progresses.
I thoughoughly enjoyed reading this book, it was immersive and I felt I could relate to the characters well and am immensely glad for having been able to read it. I would absolutely reccommend this book and am happy to rate it 5 stars.
I would like to thank The Reading Room and Allen and Unwin for my free advanced reading copy.
I thoughoughly enjoyed reading this book, it was immersive and I felt I could relate to the characters well and am immensely glad for having been able to read it. I would absolutely reccommend this book and am happy to rate it 5 stars.
I would like to thank The Reading Room and Allen and Unwin for my free advanced reading copy.
March 7, 2015
I received this book free through Goodreads First Reads. (first time so was very exciting!) And being a HUGE fan of Charity Norman I was stoked!!! I have read all of Charity Norman’s other novels and have loved them, maybe a little more than this book, but I still really liked it.
Charity Norman is a masterful storyteller, drawing you into her character's lives so wholly and completely they are alive in your consciousness long after you have finished reading.
The big secret of Luke’s life is revealed quite early in the book and from there we are confronted with the emotions of not only Luke but every family member as well, alternatively, through the chapters. My emotions and feeling were being jolted around in many different directions!! I felt for every character.
Charity must have spent an incredible amount of time researching this novel and on every single page that was evident. The pain and emotion was gripping.
Told incredibly, the story of Luke and the transition to Lucia, is a story that I will remember for a long time to come.
Charity Norman is a masterful storyteller, drawing you into her character's lives so wholly and completely they are alive in your consciousness long after you have finished reading.
The big secret of Luke’s life is revealed quite early in the book and from there we are confronted with the emotions of not only Luke but every family member as well, alternatively, through the chapters. My emotions and feeling were being jolted around in many different directions!! I felt for every character.
Charity must have spent an incredible amount of time researching this novel and on every single page that was evident. The pain and emotion was gripping.
Told incredibly, the story of Luke and the transition to Lucia, is a story that I will remember for a long time to come.
July 28, 2019
This novel opens the gateway to understanding a phenomenon most of us heteros find hard to understand - gender dysphoria and transition. I wish I had read it sooner, because it really helped me see how difficult and complicated the life of a person suffering from gender disorder is, how hard it is to be accepted, even by their own family, how hard it is to keep a job and lead a normal and safe life, etc. Charity Norman did amazing research here and came up with a novel that makes you identify with a person whose life is so foreign to us in reality. She put us inside their heads, helping us develop empathy towards them and enabling us to see their point of view. This is a great read, too, since it is filled with wonderful, lively characters that feel like real people, it is also pacy and suspenseful at times. In short, I recommend it with all my heart and will look for more from this author.
April 8, 2015
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through the FirstReads giveaways*
This will be one of those books that will stay with me for a long time and maybe even make me a better, more understanding person.
I'd never really thought much about the transgender community and all the hardships they must face on a daily basis. The courage they have to be true to themselves truly humbles me. Ms Norman's portrayal of each character and their individual journeys as they were confronted by such an upheaval in their lives were deep and emotional. I was gulping back tears for much of the book and felt each reaction as if it were my own. A writer who can do that is a real treat to read.
I've never read a book by Charity Norman before, but based on the sheer power and beauty of this book, I look forward to reading more.
This will be one of those books that will stay with me for a long time and maybe even make me a better, more understanding person.
I'd never really thought much about the transgender community and all the hardships they must face on a daily basis. The courage they have to be true to themselves truly humbles me. Ms Norman's portrayal of each character and their individual journeys as they were confronted by such an upheaval in their lives were deep and emotional. I was gulping back tears for much of the book and felt each reaction as if it were my own. A writer who can do that is a real treat to read.
I've never read a book by Charity Norman before, but based on the sheer power and beauty of this book, I look forward to reading more.
September 8, 2015
Quite a "light" read despite the hard-hitting themes but it really hit the right tone for raising awareness of transgender issues, showing the effects on all concerned and showing that glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel
November 19, 2017
3.5 stars. Some mawkish language from this author as she attempts to out-Trollope Joanna in her descriptions of middle class life. Most irritating was her attribution of human characteristics to inanimate objects: the house, the garden, even the kitchen table, which "knew the family very well ....it's face bears the honourable scars of hot saucepans....". Ugh.
However, the novel is not a bad read. I found myself quite moved by the author's handling of the subject of gender identity. The anguish of Luke/Lucia was sensitive and convincing.
However, the novel is not a bad read. I found myself quite moved by the author's handling of the subject of gender identity. The anguish of Luke/Lucia was sensitive and convincing.
September 8, 2018
How do you react when your husband, father, son tells you that for the 50 years of his life he has identified as female. Welcome to the Livingstone family. This is the first book I've read on gender identity disorder and it was an eye opener which really made me think. Like Kate, I always think of myself as open minded, able to accept anything, but when your father drop a bombshell, can you accept anything? A really interesting insightful book which really opens the mind and leaves you with a lot to think about. The level of research by the author is really detailed and handled sensitively.
June 16, 2020
Charity Norman is a witch!
She takes what is, on the surface, a black and white situation and sets the scene. You think you know what is right and wrong. I would do this. They should do this.
Then you read on.
She draws you in and you begin to doubt what you feel. Often situations she has created seem hopeless and you can't see a way out.
Then slowly but surely, she begins to tease out a conclusion. Your thoughts and feelings are turned upside down and you find yourself wondering why you ever felt differently.
You have had a masterclass in story writing.
Can't wait to start the next book - but what will I do when I have finished them all?
She takes what is, on the surface, a black and white situation and sets the scene. You think you know what is right and wrong. I would do this. They should do this.
Then you read on.
She draws you in and you begin to doubt what you feel. Often situations she has created seem hopeless and you can't see a way out.
Then slowly but surely, she begins to tease out a conclusion. Your thoughts and feelings are turned upside down and you find yourself wondering why you ever felt differently.
You have had a masterclass in story writing.
Can't wait to start the next book - but what will I do when I have finished them all?
January 17, 2020
Nagyon elgondolkodtató történet. Minden szereplővel egyet tudtam értenii és érezni. Lucia a hősöm, Kate a reménységem.
January 29, 2020
3.5 thought provoking, not sure how I'd react and hopefully I never have to find out. I really enjoyed the author's writing and will be looking to read more of her work.
September 10, 2022
I’m officially fan girling on this author - have just started the third one in a row. Somewhat predictable end to this one, but I thought the subject material (mid-life M to F transsexual) was very gently handled and I enjoyed it a lot. I’d be interested to read a review from a person or relative who’s gone through this experience.
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