I am very disappointed with this book. De Bernieres has hitherto been one of my favourite writers but Notwithstanding has let me down. Middle England meets Middle-of-the-road. I had to keep reminding myself that I was not reading McColl Smith. I cannot help but feel that Notwithstanding was writer for the author rather than his readers and as a result found it twee and mundane. I did not finish this book. Very nice stories! There is one thing though, I notice more and more that I am more a novel than a short story lover. So, I had the feeling almost after every story: I wish it went on further.What I also hoped for that the stories would connect more with each other.I must concede: I didn't finish this book, but what I read was heart warming and beautiful.I think some of the stories could make it at least to a novella if not a novel. I think I will look for novels by this writer. I have a feeling I will like them.
This reminded me a lot of Roald Dahl's Ah, Sweet Mystery of Life. Only Dahl's book was even better.
—nellbell144
Thank you for another wonderful book Mr de Bernieres.
—CamJam
It's LdB - it can't be bad.
—Kaitlynn
4.5/5
—Angelica
