As If by Accident by Julie Johnston

Published by Key Porter Books

As If by Accident is one of those books that is impossible to put down. Julie Johnston has a remarkable talent for being able to weave a story that will keep you guessing right until the end. This book is brimming with mystery and emotion as the author takes us on an unforgettable journey.

The story begins with the character of Val Hudson, an editor who finds her life changing suddenly after the death of her husband. A death which she believes would not have occurred if only she had made different choices. Following the tragic event, we watch as she learns that there is much she didn't know about her husband and his life.

We are also introduced to a writer, Gus, who has his own ghosts to deal with. A mother who I found it really hard to like, and a brother who is very different. Gus reads about Val's tragedy in the paper, her guilt and grief touch him and he decides to base a novel on the accident. These two characters are woven together in a way that will leave the reader in awe.

I had no expectations when beginning this book. It was a great read. Very gripping, a real page-turner and I was often caught between a mix of excitement and anticipation as I waited to see where the author would take this story next. I was never disappointed. The characters are well developed and the storyline is simply brilliant.

This is a fantastic first adult novel by this author and I would love to see another book with the characters as I reached the end of the book with a sense of sadness at having to say goodbye to them.

While this book is Julie Johnston's first adult novel, she has previously written six novels for young people. I may have to try those next. I love her writing style.