Bibliofemme Bookclub An Irish Bookclub

Cecelia Ahern’s first book PS, I Love You was published in January of this year. I read it and, having done so, it was with some trepidation that I approached Where Rainbows End, her second novel.

The story is based around two childhood friends: Rosie and Alex. Neighbours from the age of five they grow up together and have stuck beside each other through thick and thin. But just as they’re discovering the joys of teenage life, destiny steps in and they are separated and Alex moves from Dublin to Boston where his father has been offered an amazing job.

Rosie is lost without him but plans to join Alex as soon as she has finished school. But on the eve of her departure to Boston, Rosie gets news that will change her life forever and will keep her in Ireland indefinitely.

Continuing their relationship by email, letters and the phone, their magical connection sees them through the ups and downs of each other’s lives, but neither of them know whether their friendship can really survive the years, miles and new relationships in their lives.

Based on one kiss Rosie always wonders whether their relationship was ever meant to be more than a friendship. But the world continues to conspire against them and it seems that they are destined to remain apart forever.

Where Rainbows End is written in epistolary form which takes time to adjust to and is a hard format for any writer to tackle. However, it has its moments and at times I even laughed – well definitely smiled – at some of the more humorous elements.

Ahern has certainly improved and there is no doubt in my mind that she has a vivid imagination and the ability to tell a story. I don’t feel she has found her niche yet, but if she continues to improve to this extent with each novel, the next one she writes will definitely be worth a read.