The Promise

Author: Lucy Diamond
Publisher: MacMillan
Reviewer: Beryl Eichenberger
While Lucy Diamond may be a chick-lit author, or let’s say recreational reading, in her latest novel ‘The Promise’  she deals with the difficult subject of losing a loved one. The rollercoaster of grief as it affects each member of the family is beautifully portrayed in a poignant story that will make you cry and laugh. While never undermining the tragedy, she writes in a light and accessible style making ‘The Promise’ an easy read.  With pathos and humour she tracks the journey, the revelations and the legacies that come 

with losing someone. This is a good story which will resonate with many, particularly during this time of so many losses.
When his older brother Patrick is drowned in a tragic accident, Daniel is wracked with guilt. If they hadn’t had that terrible row in the pub and if he hadn’t told him he was not welcome in his home, none of this would ever have happened. Daniel has always looked up to his older sibling. Good looking, happily married, three lovely kids, successful business man, Patrick had everything going for him. Daniel decides, as atonement for his perceived guilt, to take on Patrick’s responsibilities and support his sister-in-law Zoe and the three kids, Ethan, Gabe and Bea, in every way he can – this is his promise. Being the more serious of the brothers, an accountant with a job in the City he methodically puts together a spread sheet of activities.  On sabbatical from his job he has time to make good on his this project. He notes his ‘good deeds’ as he picks up the pieces of Patrick’s life thinking this may dull the pain. But as he unravels Patrick’s life the realisation that he was not as exemplary as everyone thought comes as a huge shock. Who is the mysterious L. Fox  Daniel’s integrity is being tested as he realises that the secrets he has uncovered will have a life altering effect on his whole family.  
But through grief there is growth and the passage of the story takes us subtly through the various stages. As the rather inhibited Dan restores his relationship with his parents, his role as an uncle takes on more meaning and his understanding of his brother’s failings are accepted.  He finds new friends and while the shock, hurt and anger remain we see a new Dan emerge, one with purpose and strength. Gently and with empathy Diamond shapes a telling tale that is realistic and moving.  And of course, as in all chick –lit love will find a way of creeping up on you (no, not Dan and Zoe!) There are wonderful moments of joy, humour and relief as the story unfolds.
Diamond’s keen observations of human nature are evident and she places her cast firmly on the ground as they experience this tragedy.  There are lessons to be learnt through every life experience and by the end of the book I felt that Diamond had clearly dealt with this as each character emerges from their grief to shape a new future.  ​