Status
Available
Genres
Publication
Henry Holt and Co. (2021), 384 pages
Description
"Thirty years ago, a teenage Vincent King was sent to prison. But now, he's served his sentence and is returning to his hometown. The hometown where his childhood best friend, Walk, is now the chief of police. The town where his childhood sweetheart, Star Radley, still lives. The same Star Radley whose sister he killed. Duchess, Star's daughter, is a self-proclaimed outlaw. She needs to be. Who else is going to take care of her and her five-year-old brother? Star is still dazzling, still beautiful, but she hasn't shined as bright since Vincent was sent away. Too often it's Duchess and Walk who are the ones taking care of her. But when Duchess exacts her own vigilante revenge, she will set into motion a series of events that threatens not only her own family, but everyone she grows close to. A crime thriller that will break your heart and a literary novel with a mystery at its core, We Begin at the End unforgettably examines how the choices we make can nudge us into the dangerous ground between good and evil"--… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member waldhaus1
A murderer mystery set in a small coastal California town. Many cookies but the best are locked in the characters of the characters. An almost believable story. A butcher, a car collector, a developer locked together on a freaky dance with childhood friend whose life was devastated by a bit and run
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accident with one of them as driver. Show Less
LibraryThing member almin
The story was good, a little confusing with all the characters. What was with the names...trying to figure out if there was some sort of symbolism involved. 'Duchess' 'Radley' (Boo Radley?) 'Star' 'Walk'...ugh. The writing was clunky, too many metaphors, and bad ones at that, no flow. He tried too
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hard, there were issues with not knowing which character was speaking, had to reread some passages as I just didn't understand what he was trying to tell the reader. Duchess is a 13 year old mature beyond her years because of the life she lives with her mother and brother, but there is no way a 13 year old would speak or think that way. Just no way...sorry...but, I did like the relationship between her and Robin. Three stars is being generous, I understand all the accolades because it was a sad, melodramatic story, appeals to women's emotions. I did like the grandfather and his growing relationship with Duchess. Show Less
LibraryThing member norinrad10
I can't praise this book enough. Chris Whitaker has created a unique thriller peppered with some the most memorable characters ever created., As a result, the reader is taken on a wild ride, whose ending is never anticipated.
Twenty years ago, a tragic event that ends in the death of a young child
Don't be surprised if you find this one at the top of many "best of" lists come the end of the year.
Twenty years ago, a tragic event that ends in the death of a young child
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forever stains a town and 4 young friends. Unfortunately, despite the passing of time, those tragic events continue to reverberate and shape the present. Reiterating the William Faulkner line, "The past is never dead. It's not even past."Don't be surprised if you find this one at the top of many "best of" lists come the end of the year.
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LibraryThing member cathyskye
We Begin at the End is an extraordinary novel and one that's difficult to talk about without giving plot points away. Just when I thought I had things figured out, author Chris Whitaker would throw in another twist, another surprise, and have me racing to reconfigure everything in my mind. The
We Begin at the End is a story about loyalty, a story about secrets, a story about redemption, and the one thing that powers this book into one of the best books I've ever read is its characters. These characters are going to live with me for a long time. Chief Walker, who seems to feel responsible for everyone and does his level best to protect them all. Dolly and Hal in Montana for their love and patience in dealing with difficult personalities. Martha May the lawyer who prefers defending battered women. Young Thomas Noble who sees Duchess Day Radley for the treasure she is and sticks to her like glue.
And-- towering above them all-- Duchess Day Radley, herself. Readers will be hard-pressed to find another thirteen-year-old who can so easily make them wince, make them laugh, make them hold their breath, and make them cry. If you tell Duchess that, when life hands her lemons, she's supposed to make lemonade, you'd better duck because those lemons are going to be flying straight at your head. This young girl is so filled with rage and hurt and love that you want to wrap her in a bear hug and never ever let another thing hurt her. What does she want? It's simple. Just listen to what she tells her mother: "I just wish there was a middle, you know. Because that's where people live. It doesn't have to be all or nothing... sink or swim like that. Most people just tread water, and that's enough. Because when you're sinking, you're pulling us down with you."
If you want to know if Duchess Day Radley and her brother Robin ever get to experience life in the middle, pick up a copy of We Begin at the End. It's a phenomenal book.
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opening scene grabbed me by the throat, and I hadn't read many more pages before I knew that I was reading something very special. The further I read, the more I knew I was right.We Begin at the End is a story about loyalty, a story about secrets, a story about redemption, and the one thing that powers this book into one of the best books I've ever read is its characters. These characters are going to live with me for a long time. Chief Walker, who seems to feel responsible for everyone and does his level best to protect them all. Dolly and Hal in Montana for their love and patience in dealing with difficult personalities. Martha May the lawyer who prefers defending battered women. Young Thomas Noble who sees Duchess Day Radley for the treasure she is and sticks to her like glue.
And-- towering above them all-- Duchess Day Radley, herself. Readers will be hard-pressed to find another thirteen-year-old who can so easily make them wince, make them laugh, make them hold their breath, and make them cry. If you tell Duchess that, when life hands her lemons, she's supposed to make lemonade, you'd better duck because those lemons are going to be flying straight at your head. This young girl is so filled with rage and hurt and love that you want to wrap her in a bear hug and never ever let another thing hurt her. What does she want? It's simple. Just listen to what she tells her mother: "I just wish there was a middle, you know. Because that's where people live. It doesn't have to be all or nothing... sink or swim like that. Most people just tread water, and that's enough. Because when you're sinking, you're pulling us down with you."
If you want to know if Duchess Day Radley and her brother Robin ever get to experience life in the middle, pick up a copy of We Begin at the End. It's a phenomenal book.
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LibraryThing member Beamis12
Duchess Day Radley, outlaw. At thirteen outlaw is the persona she takes, this young girl who has already seen and experienced so much. She takes care of her brother Robin, aged 6 and tries to keep her mother Star, alive. She has a world of hurt on her , but is determined to protect her little
Duchess is a character I will long remember. This young girl with the tough attitude, wearing a bow in her hair. This girl filled with much hurt but also a fierce love. This is a story that I found consuming and heartbreaking. Lives and how they go astray. How one act can cause so much harm, change ones fate as well as the fate as others. It is a poignant story. A story of good people who can't seem to catch a break. People who will do anything for family and those they love, no matter what. An engrossing and memorable story that ends with an ultimate act of love.
ARC from Edelweiss.
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family against incredible odds. The only person she trusts is the Sheriff, a man who has known Star since they were kids and does his best to help Duchess. Soon though a man, Vincent King will be let out of jail and Duchess will committ an act that will be a point of no return.Duchess is a character I will long remember. This young girl with the tough attitude, wearing a bow in her hair. This girl filled with much hurt but also a fierce love. This is a story that I found consuming and heartbreaking. Lives and how they go astray. How one act can cause so much harm, change ones fate as well as the fate as others. It is a poignant story. A story of good people who can't seem to catch a break. People who will do anything for family and those they love, no matter what. An engrossing and memorable story that ends with an ultimate act of love.
ARC from Edelweiss.
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LibraryThing member nbmars
This writer reminded me a lot of John Hart, with his coming-of-age books about families that get broken after a tragic event, and then deal with questions of revenge, justice, and the mournful seeking of redemption.
Set in a small coastal town in California, the story begins as Walk, 15, discovers
Over the years, Walk has looked out for Star Radley, Sissy’s big sister and a friend of Walk’s from the days when they would double date - Walk and Martha May, and Vincent and Star. These days, Star is often out late at bars, drinking and picking up men, and Walk tries to do what he can for her illegitimate children, 13-year-old Duchess and 6-year-old Robin. It falls to Duchess to mother Robin, and she does so devotedly, in spite of her resentment over it.
Duchess is hard, old before her time, and all but consumed by her anger. She copes by imagining herself to be an outlaw, as was apparently one of her distant ancestors, and that fantasy makes her brave as well as aggressive and confrontational. She acts out against anyone trying to help, but the people who know her can’t help but see her pain, and they are patient, absorbing her blows.
Vincent’s return shakes everything up, and a new tragedy rips everyone apart again.
Discussion: The story explores larger themes, such as when revenge is justified and when it is counter-productive; what would lead even the best of us compromise our values; and the fluid ways in which family can be defined. When is the path to forgiveness just too strewn with obstacles? What will it take, after the worst of circumstances, to start down the road to redemption?
Evaluation: This gritty story is not only a murder mystery, but also very much a coming of age book highlighting the bonds of family and friendship. There is a great deal of sadness, injustice, and the tragedy of wretched circumstances, but there is also eventually a measure of redemption, at least for some of the characters. To get there, however, the reader must navigate an impressive labyrinth of plot twists and turns as the story resolves.
Set in a small coastal town in California, the story begins as Walk, 15, discovers
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the body of seven-year-old Sissy Radley. It then moves forward thirty years, when Vincent King is about to be released from prison for Sissy's death. Walk, now Chief of Cape Haven Police, goes to pick Vincent up from prison. Walk still considers Vincent his best friend, and repeatedly tried to reach out to him when he was in prison. But Vincent is a broken man who doesn’t want help; doesn’t want “saving.” But Walk, he can’t help but try.Over the years, Walk has looked out for Star Radley, Sissy’s big sister and a friend of Walk’s from the days when they would double date - Walk and Martha May, and Vincent and Star. These days, Star is often out late at bars, drinking and picking up men, and Walk tries to do what he can for her illegitimate children, 13-year-old Duchess and 6-year-old Robin. It falls to Duchess to mother Robin, and she does so devotedly, in spite of her resentment over it.
Duchess is hard, old before her time, and all but consumed by her anger. She copes by imagining herself to be an outlaw, as was apparently one of her distant ancestors, and that fantasy makes her brave as well as aggressive and confrontational. She acts out against anyone trying to help, but the people who know her can’t help but see her pain, and they are patient, absorbing her blows.
Vincent’s return shakes everything up, and a new tragedy rips everyone apart again.
Discussion: The story explores larger themes, such as when revenge is justified and when it is counter-productive; what would lead even the best of us compromise our values; and the fluid ways in which family can be defined. When is the path to forgiveness just too strewn with obstacles? What will it take, after the worst of circumstances, to start down the road to redemption?
Evaluation: This gritty story is not only a murder mystery, but also very much a coming of age book highlighting the bonds of family and friendship. There is a great deal of sadness, injustice, and the tragedy of wretched circumstances, but there is also eventually a measure of redemption, at least for some of the characters. To get there, however, the reader must navigate an impressive labyrinth of plot twists and turns as the story resolves.
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LibraryThing member SamSattler
Only after turning the last page of Chris Whitaker’s We Begin at the End, did I learn that Mr. Whitaker is a British author and that the novel has done quite well in the U.K this year (it will be published in the U.S. in March 2021). I mention this only because We Begin at the End is so much an
This is one of those novels for which a reviewer needs to take special care not to inadvertently release any spoilers, so I’ll do my best not to mention anything that is not already revealed on the novel’s book flap. Just know going in, that this is a novel filled with the kind of surprises and revelations that you will dying to talk about with your friends after they’ve enjoyed We Begin at the End for themselves.
Thirty years earlier, Walk, now chief of police in his small California beach town, gave the testimony that sent his best friend to prison. Now, that friend is being released back into the community, and Walk desperately wants to help him to make the most of the rest of his life. Vincent King, though, is both mentally and physically scarred by his years in prison, and all he wants from the people of Cape Haven, California, is to be left alone as he works at restoring his old family home. But it won’t be that easy for any of them. People are going to die…several of them.
We Begin at the End has a terrific plot, one filled with so many twists and turns that it’s hard not to feel as if you’re on a runaway train as you approach the book’s final few chapters. But that brings me back to how easy it would be to spoil this novel for those yet to read it. Just about every time you feel as if all has finally been revealed, something else just as surprising comes along, and then you think surely that’s it - right up until the next twist in the plot jolts you. That’s a big part of the fun of We Begin at the End, but it can only truly be experienced at its best by those who pick it up knowing next to nothing about the plot details.
The complicated plot is all made possible by a cast of memorable characters, beginning with the self-categorized thirteen-year-old “Outlaw Duchess Day Radley,” a little girl who is proud of the outlaw blood in her family tree and only wishes there was more of it. Duchess has grown up quickly because she knows it is entirely up to her to take care of her drug-addicted mother and Robin, her six-year-old brother. She is fearless, and after she learns to shoot a pistol, she is dangerous. Robin is an emotionally traumatized little boy who clings to his sister for the emotional support that allows him to get through another day. Walk and Vincent King are complicated, memorable characters, too, but it is some of the secondary characters that will stay with me the longest, particularly those who appear in the second half of the book to play large roles in the lives of the children.
Bottom Line: This is a book about half-truths, shades of grey, and secrets. Every character in the book seems to have secrets that they refuse to give up or try to justify even to themselves. It is a story about the loyalty of family and friends, and how that loyalty can so easily be misplaced or misunderstood. It is a story about good intentions going very badly, and it is a story of redemption. Don’t miss it.
Review copy provided by publishe
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“American” novel in tone and point-of-view that I never even thought to check into the author’s background. This is one of those novels for which a reviewer needs to take special care not to inadvertently release any spoilers, so I’ll do my best not to mention anything that is not already revealed on the novel’s book flap. Just know going in, that this is a novel filled with the kind of surprises and revelations that you will dying to talk about with your friends after they’ve enjoyed We Begin at the End for themselves.
Thirty years earlier, Walk, now chief of police in his small California beach town, gave the testimony that sent his best friend to prison. Now, that friend is being released back into the community, and Walk desperately wants to help him to make the most of the rest of his life. Vincent King, though, is both mentally and physically scarred by his years in prison, and all he wants from the people of Cape Haven, California, is to be left alone as he works at restoring his old family home. But it won’t be that easy for any of them. People are going to die…several of them.
We Begin at the End has a terrific plot, one filled with so many twists and turns that it’s hard not to feel as if you’re on a runaway train as you approach the book’s final few chapters. But that brings me back to how easy it would be to spoil this novel for those yet to read it. Just about every time you feel as if all has finally been revealed, something else just as surprising comes along, and then you think surely that’s it - right up until the next twist in the plot jolts you. That’s a big part of the fun of We Begin at the End, but it can only truly be experienced at its best by those who pick it up knowing next to nothing about the plot details.
The complicated plot is all made possible by a cast of memorable characters, beginning with the self-categorized thirteen-year-old “Outlaw Duchess Day Radley,” a little girl who is proud of the outlaw blood in her family tree and only wishes there was more of it. Duchess has grown up quickly because she knows it is entirely up to her to take care of her drug-addicted mother and Robin, her six-year-old brother. She is fearless, and after she learns to shoot a pistol, she is dangerous. Robin is an emotionally traumatized little boy who clings to his sister for the emotional support that allows him to get through another day. Walk and Vincent King are complicated, memorable characters, too, but it is some of the secondary characters that will stay with me the longest, particularly those who appear in the second half of the book to play large roles in the lives of the children.
Bottom Line: This is a book about half-truths, shades of grey, and secrets. Every character in the book seems to have secrets that they refuse to give up or try to justify even to themselves. It is a story about the loyalty of family and friends, and how that loyalty can so easily be misplaced or misunderstood. It is a story about good intentions going very badly, and it is a story of redemption. Don’t miss it.
Review copy provided by publishe
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LibraryThing member jtsolakos
The first part of the book simply did not connect with me. Some sentences seemed too flowery. Some characters undeveloped. It took awhile before I started to enjoy reading the story and wanted to pick up the book and finish reading the story. So, pick up the book, just know it may take a little
Thank you to Goodreads and Henry Holt Publishers for an ARC of this book.
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work, but you will enjoy end of the story.Thank you to Goodreads and Henry Holt Publishers for an ARC of this book.
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LibraryThing member Twink
Begin at the End is Chris Whitaker's new novel - and it's a fantastic read on so many levels. And that's also the opinion of one of my favorite authors - here's what Louise Penny had to say...."This is a book to be read and reread and an author to be celebrated."
Okay, so now you're asking - what is
"With We Begin at the End, Chris Whitaker has written an extraordinary novel about people who deserve so much more than life serves them. At times devastating, with flashes of humor and hope throughout, it is ultimately an inspiring tale of how the human spirit prevails and how, in the end, love—in all its different guises—wins. There are two kinds of families: the ones we are born into and the ones we create."
Thirteen year old Duchess Day Radley is a self proclaimed outlaw. A defensive measure as she is ostracized by her classmates - and many adults. She fiercely protects her five year old brother Robin and makes sure he eats, brushes his teeth and more. She also locks the two of them into their bedroom at night - unsure who her mother Star might bring home.
Walk and Vincent were friends with Star as kids, until a terrible tragedy changed everything. Thirty years on, Star is a mess, Walk is the local Police Chief and Vincent is getting out of prison. But the past has a long reach and a long memory. And Duchess and Robin are standing right in the way....
Whitaker's characters are so well drawn - they'll make you hurt, make you shake your fist at fate, make you want to close the book at the hard bits, but you won't be able to. The characters are all broken to some degree, even the supporting players. Each of those supporting players plays an important part in We Begin at the End. But within some are small fires, hope and redemption that drives them forward. None more than Duchess. But she makes mistakes and then the path twists and turns in another direction. (Scout Finch and Boo Radley came to mind as I read.)
"...Walk. You're like a kid. Better and worse. Bad and good. None of us are any one thing. We're just a collection of the best and worst things we've done."
Whitaker's plotting is just as good as his characters. There is a present day crime that is difficult to solve. My thoughts on whodunit changed often as the book progressed, as there are numerous suspects and motives. I was surprised every time Whitaker's plot took a new direction.
I was also surprised to find that Whitaker was British as the book is set in small town USA. He describes his setting well and I could easily picture the cliffs, the water, the wishing tree, the main street and more.
Whitaker's prose are beautiful. Stark and raw, beautiful in their honesty. And heartbreaking, yet heartwarming as well.
The title is enigmatic at the beginning of the book, but is referenced many times throughout the narrative. It'll have you thinking. And I thought about Duchess long after I turned the last page. Absolutely recommended.
Okay, so now you're asking - what is
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it about? From Henry Holt and Co:"With We Begin at the End, Chris Whitaker has written an extraordinary novel about people who deserve so much more than life serves them. At times devastating, with flashes of humor and hope throughout, it is ultimately an inspiring tale of how the human spirit prevails and how, in the end, love—in all its different guises—wins. There are two kinds of families: the ones we are born into and the ones we create."
Thirteen year old Duchess Day Radley is a self proclaimed outlaw. A defensive measure as she is ostracized by her classmates - and many adults. She fiercely protects her five year old brother Robin and makes sure he eats, brushes his teeth and more. She also locks the two of them into their bedroom at night - unsure who her mother Star might bring home.
Walk and Vincent were friends with Star as kids, until a terrible tragedy changed everything. Thirty years on, Star is a mess, Walk is the local Police Chief and Vincent is getting out of prison. But the past has a long reach and a long memory. And Duchess and Robin are standing right in the way....
Whitaker's characters are so well drawn - they'll make you hurt, make you shake your fist at fate, make you want to close the book at the hard bits, but you won't be able to. The characters are all broken to some degree, even the supporting players. Each of those supporting players plays an important part in We Begin at the End. But within some are small fires, hope and redemption that drives them forward. None more than Duchess. But she makes mistakes and then the path twists and turns in another direction. (Scout Finch and Boo Radley came to mind as I read.)
"...Walk. You're like a kid. Better and worse. Bad and good. None of us are any one thing. We're just a collection of the best and worst things we've done."
Whitaker's plotting is just as good as his characters. There is a present day crime that is difficult to solve. My thoughts on whodunit changed often as the book progressed, as there are numerous suspects and motives. I was surprised every time Whitaker's plot took a new direction.
I was also surprised to find that Whitaker was British as the book is set in small town USA. He describes his setting well and I could easily picture the cliffs, the water, the wishing tree, the main street and more.
Whitaker's prose are beautiful. Stark and raw, beautiful in their honesty. And heartbreaking, yet heartwarming as well.
The title is enigmatic at the beginning of the book, but is referenced many times throughout the narrative. It'll have you thinking. And I thought about Duchess long after I turned the last page. Absolutely recommended.
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LibraryThing member Dianekeenoy
This book will break your heart... it it's worth it! One if the best books of the year!
LibraryThing member hubblegal
I must say that I started off having real doubts about liking this book. I had just finished an amazing book that I said would be a hard act to follow so maybe that's why. I had trouble with this author's style of writing, felt it was disjointed, re-read sentences that didn't seem to make any sense
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and they still didn't make any sense, couldn't connect with the characters, etc. I was struggling and wondering why there were so many good reviews. I was quite a way into the book when that all changed and I didn't care how the story was being told - I was hooked! Hook, line and sinker. I had originally thought I knew exactly where this story was headed but curves were thrown at several places, none of them anticipated. I was totally reduced to tears at the end. Such a wonderful story that will live long in my memory. Highly recommended. Show Less
LibraryThing member tibobi
The Short of It:
If you are looking to be entertained by some unforgettable characters then you’ve found your book.
The Rest of It:
Duchess Day Radley is a thirteen year-old outlaw. You see, the Radleys have a history and Duchess knows it and has no problem reminding others of it every chance she
Duchess spends her days looking after her brother, mostly because her mother has a tendency to pass out drunk in the font yard. Everyone in town knows Star, and they knew her sister Sissy too, the one who was killed by a drunk driver years ago and the man who did it was just released from prison and lives right across the street.
As reputations go, Star’s is not great although her heart is in the right place. She tries to do right by her kids, but seems to always fall short. That’s why there is an entire cast of characters looking out for her, one of which is Walk, short for Walker, who is Cape Haven’s Chief of Police. He and Star go way back. He does what he can to help her out, but one night, he’s not able to and the entire town is affected by the tragedy.
Small town life. Tragedy. Unforgettable characters. The hope of new beginnings. When I picked up We Begin At The End, I just knew within the first few chapters that this was going to be a story that would stay with me for a very long time. First off, the writing is beautiful. There were some passages that I read out loud just to hear the words. What pushed this book over-the-top for me, in a wonderful way, are the characters. Duchess is all edges, hard and bristly but you can’t help but love her even when her “tell it like it is” demeanor puts a wedge between her and anyone trying to get close to her. Walk is kind-hearted, honest when he needs to be but also a realist and loyal to a fault. I’ve got to mention Thomas Noble. He’s a gentle young man who befriends the tough Duchess Day Radley and loves her regardless of all the pushback that she throws his way. What a lovable kid. He reminded me of Owen Meany in a lot of ways. I could go on and on about the characters.
“You’re the toughest girl I ever met. And the prettiest. And I know you’ll probably hit me, but I think my world is infinitely better because you’re in it.” ~Thomas Noble
This is one of those reads that you savor. You turn the pages slowly because you don’t want your time with these people to end. You read a passage and then find yourself staring off into space pondering what you just read. This story broke my heart in so many ways but man, did I love it. It’s still early in the year but this will probably be my favorite read this year.
For more reviews, visit my blog: Book Chatter.
If you are looking to be entertained by some unforgettable characters then you’ve found your book.
The Rest of It:
Duchess Day Radley is a thirteen year-old outlaw. You see, the Radleys have a history and Duchess knows it and has no problem reminding others of it every chance she
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gets. She is a pistol through and through and won’t allow anyone to bully her family in any way. This includes her young brother Robin and her wayward mother, Star.Duchess spends her days looking after her brother, mostly because her mother has a tendency to pass out drunk in the font yard. Everyone in town knows Star, and they knew her sister Sissy too, the one who was killed by a drunk driver years ago and the man who did it was just released from prison and lives right across the street.
As reputations go, Star’s is not great although her heart is in the right place. She tries to do right by her kids, but seems to always fall short. That’s why there is an entire cast of characters looking out for her, one of which is Walk, short for Walker, who is Cape Haven’s Chief of Police. He and Star go way back. He does what he can to help her out, but one night, he’s not able to and the entire town is affected by the tragedy.
Small town life. Tragedy. Unforgettable characters. The hope of new beginnings. When I picked up We Begin At The End, I just knew within the first few chapters that this was going to be a story that would stay with me for a very long time. First off, the writing is beautiful. There were some passages that I read out loud just to hear the words. What pushed this book over-the-top for me, in a wonderful way, are the characters. Duchess is all edges, hard and bristly but you can’t help but love her even when her “tell it like it is” demeanor puts a wedge between her and anyone trying to get close to her. Walk is kind-hearted, honest when he needs to be but also a realist and loyal to a fault. I’ve got to mention Thomas Noble. He’s a gentle young man who befriends the tough Duchess Day Radley and loves her regardless of all the pushback that she throws his way. What a lovable kid. He reminded me of Owen Meany in a lot of ways. I could go on and on about the characters.
“You’re the toughest girl I ever met. And the prettiest. And I know you’ll probably hit me, but I think my world is infinitely better because you’re in it.” ~Thomas Noble
This is one of those reads that you savor. You turn the pages slowly because you don’t want your time with these people to end. You read a passage and then find yourself staring off into space pondering what you just read. This story broke my heart in so many ways but man, did I love it. It’s still early in the year but this will probably be my favorite read this year.
For more reviews, visit my blog: Book Chatter.
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LibraryThing member chasidar
Even though the book dragged at time, I really loved this heartbreaking book.
LibraryThing member janw
Whitaker has written a complex family story/mystery with interesting characters. The end is gripping and complex. The problem with this book is the dialog is confusing and unclear. A careful reader will find themselves rereading to understand who said what. If you are picky about the authenticity
If you want to escape in a semi-sweet story, with a some time with sine very nice characters, and an engrossing but rather complex mystery which includes some unexpected twists and turns this is the right read for you.
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of the geographic setting geography you will be irritated that the author from the UK sets much of the book in Montana and clearly has never been there. If he has he was asleep in a car much of his trip. If you have never been to MT or don't worry about that sort of detail it won't bother you. There is a touch of Dickensian in the character names that seems a little corny: Dick Darke, Thomas Noble, Vincent King, and Robin, the Prince. If you want to escape in a semi-sweet story, with a some time with sine very nice characters, and an engrossing but rather complex mystery which includes some unexpected twists and turns this is the right read for you.
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LibraryThing member fredreeca
Duchess Day Radley is only 13 years old. But she is in charge of so much. Her mother is unable to cope with Duchess and her little brother, Robin. So, Duchess has had to step up and be responsible for just about everything.
Duchess and Robin tear your heart out through this whole book. Their life is
Walk, the local sheriff, is struggling with his own medical condition. But he is determined to help these children and hopefully mend a wrong.
Oh wow! That is one heck of a good book! Especially the ending. Geez! This will have you all over the place. This is a multilayered story which is amazing from start to finish. Your heart will be broken, fixed and broken again.
I listened to this one and the narrator, George Newbern, could not have been better. I am going to have to search this narrator out.
Grab your copy today! You do not want to miss this one.
I received this audiobook from The publishers for a honest review.
Duchess and Robin tear your heart out through this whole book. Their life is
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just not the best. And when it turns worse and they end up at their grandfather’s farm you think it is finally going to get better. But as usual, life twists and they once again are in the wind.Walk, the local sheriff, is struggling with his own medical condition. But he is determined to help these children and hopefully mend a wrong.
Oh wow! That is one heck of a good book! Especially the ending. Geez! This will have you all over the place. This is a multilayered story which is amazing from start to finish. Your heart will be broken, fixed and broken again.
I listened to this one and the narrator, George Newbern, could not have been better. I am going to have to search this narrator out.
Grab your copy today! You do not want to miss this one.
I received this audiobook from The publishers for a honest review.
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LibraryThing member BDartnall
"This is like other books: small town life/families that get broken after a tragic event, and then deal with questions of revenge, justice, and the mournful seeking of redemption.
Set in a small coastal town in California, the story begins as Walk, 15, discovers the body of seven-year-old Sissy
Over the years, Walk has looked out for Star Radley, Sissy’s big sister and a friend of Walk’s from the days when they would double date - Walk and Martha May, and Vincent and Star. These days, Star is often out late at bars, drinking and picking up men, and Walk tries to do what he can for her illegitimate children, 13-year-old Duchess and 6-year-old Robin. It falls to Duchess to mother Robin, and she does so devotedly, in spite of her resentment over it.
Duchess is hard, old before her time, and all but consumed by her anger. She copes by imagining herself to be an outlaw, as was apparently one of her distant ancestors, and that fantasy makes her brave as well as aggressive and confrontational. She acts out against anyone trying to help, but the people who know her can’t help but see her pain, and they are patient, absorbing her blows.
Vincent’s return shakes everything up, and a new tragedy rips everyone apart again.
Discussion: The story explores larger themes, such as when revenge is justified and when it is counter-productive; what would lead even the best of us compromise our values; and the fluid ways in which family can be defined. When is the path to forgiveness just too strewn with obstacles? What will it take, after the worst of circumstances, to start down the road to redemption?
Evaluation: This gritty story is not only a murder mystery, but also very much a coming of age book highlighting the bonds of family and friendship. There is a great deal of sadness, injustice, and the tragedy of wretched circumstances, but there is also eventually a measure of redemption, at least for some of the characters. To get there, however, the reader must navigate an impressive labyrinth of plot twists and turns as the story resolves"
Copied from fellow LibraryThing member: nbmars Mar 21 2021
Set in a small coastal town in California, the story begins as Walk, 15, discovers the body of seven-year-old Sissy
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Radley. It then moves forward thirty years, when Vincent King is about to be released from prison for Sissy's death. Walk, now Chief of Cape Haven Police, goes to pick Vincent up from prison. Walk still considers Vincent his best friend, and repeatedly tried to reach out to him when he was in prison. But Vincent is a broken man who doesn’t want help; doesn’t want “saving.” But Walk, he can’t help but try.Over the years, Walk has looked out for Star Radley, Sissy’s big sister and a friend of Walk’s from the days when they would double date - Walk and Martha May, and Vincent and Star. These days, Star is often out late at bars, drinking and picking up men, and Walk tries to do what he can for her illegitimate children, 13-year-old Duchess and 6-year-old Robin. It falls to Duchess to mother Robin, and she does so devotedly, in spite of her resentment over it.
Duchess is hard, old before her time, and all but consumed by her anger. She copes by imagining herself to be an outlaw, as was apparently one of her distant ancestors, and that fantasy makes her brave as well as aggressive and confrontational. She acts out against anyone trying to help, but the people who know her can’t help but see her pain, and they are patient, absorbing her blows.
Vincent’s return shakes everything up, and a new tragedy rips everyone apart again.
Discussion: The story explores larger themes, such as when revenge is justified and when it is counter-productive; what would lead even the best of us compromise our values; and the fluid ways in which family can be defined. When is the path to forgiveness just too strewn with obstacles? What will it take, after the worst of circumstances, to start down the road to redemption?
Evaluation: This gritty story is not only a murder mystery, but also very much a coming of age book highlighting the bonds of family and friendship. There is a great deal of sadness, injustice, and the tragedy of wretched circumstances, but there is also eventually a measure of redemption, at least for some of the characters. To get there, however, the reader must navigate an impressive labyrinth of plot twists and turns as the story resolves"
Copied from fellow LibraryThing member: nbmars Mar 21 2021
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LibraryThing member grandpahobo
This is a dark, disturbing and compelling book. As troubling as the story is, its almost impossible to put down. The characters are so real and flawed you can't help but feel both compassion and be depressed for them. There are several twists in the plot that surprise you and leave you thinking "I
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should have seen that coming". A book I will remember for a long time. Show Less
LibraryThing member Stahl-Ricco
“He’d come so far, he would get to the finish, even if it cost him his soul.”
Poor Walk. And poor everyone in this book, especially Duchess Day Radley, Outlaw, “A girl on her way to right a lifetime of wrongs.”
Part Four of this story is titled “Heartbreaker” and let me tell you, that
Poor Walk. And poor everyone in this book, especially Duchess Day Radley, Outlaw, “A girl on her way to right a lifetime of wrongs.”
Part Four of this story is titled “Heartbreaker” and let me tell you, that
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could be the title for this whole book. Heck, at the end of chapter 48, tears were rolling down my cheeks. Very well written, but it tore the heart right outta me. After reading this, I'm spent. Show Less
LibraryThing member Nancyjcbs
We Begin at the End was an exceptional novel which looked at a variety of issues such as family loyalty and love, actions vs. consequences, friendship, secrets, responsibility and redemption, and serious illness. One thing different about this novel is that it is wrapped in a murder mystery.
There
There
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are two protagonists: Walk, the local police chief and Duchess, an amazing 13 year old. Both have flaws and make some terrible choices for the right reasons. I absolutely loved the Outlaw Duchess May Radley! Show Less
LibraryThing member LARA335
13-year-old feisty, cynical Duchess has to fend for herself and protect her younger brother. Tragedy follows tragedy, and this is a sad tale of a loyal policeman collaborating with his former sweet-heart to try and save an old friend (who doesn’t want saving) from a death sentence.
The novel is
Slow paced till everything speeds up, unexpected loose ends get tied and lives change in a hurried final twenty pages.
The novel is
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about (as Walk, the policeman says) people doing the wrong things for the right reasons. So I often found myself feeling frustrated by various characters’ skewed decision-making.Slow paced till everything speeds up, unexpected loose ends get tied and lives change in a hurried final twenty pages.
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LibraryThing member dawnlovesbooks
This book just tore me up. :( These characters, their past, their pain. I can't even formulate the words to describe it. It's a mystery, but so much more than that. Read it and weep.
LibraryThing member icolford
A thirty-year-old crime and an angry, mistrustful teenage girl are at the core of Chris Whitaker’s stylish thriller.
Walker (known by everyone as ‘Walk’) has spent his entire life in his hometown of Cape Haven, California. Now in his forties, Walk is Chief of Police—though what does that
Walker (known by everyone as ‘Walk’) has spent his entire life in his hometown of Cape Haven, California. Now in his forties, Walk is Chief of Police—though what does that
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actually mean when the force has only three staff, one of which is part-time?—with a reputation for reliability and fairness. But Walk is haunted: thirty years ago, he provided testimony that sent his best friend, Vincent King, to prison for killing Sissy Radley, also a friend and a teenage beauty. Vincent, still a teen when incarcerated in the adult prison—where he was forced to learn quickly—had his sentence extended when he killed another prisoner in an altercation. Thirty years on, Vincent is getting out, and his release back into the Cape Haven community sparks the events that drive the action of Whitaker’s sizzling novel. For years Walk has kept a protective watch over Sissy’s sister Star and her two children, 13-year-old Duchess, and Robin, who is just starting school. Walk is worried that Vincent’s return will trigger Star to indulge the worst of her self-destructive tendencies. For her part, Star—an object of almost universal lust among the men of Cape Haven—has been beaten down by so much bad luck and so many poor choices that her first instinct is to do whatever it takes to get by and to hell with the consequences. The anger Star should feel instead consumes her daughter, self-styled “outlaw” Duchess Day Radley, who protects her brother with the ferocity of a lioness, isn’t afraid to use her fists, and doesn’t trust anyone. In the aftermath of another tragic murder, Walk finds himself thrust into action, hunting for truths old and new and reluctantly exploring his own past and not much liking what he finds. In We Begin at the End Chris Whitaker, with clipped prose and bracing lyricism, has crafted a gripping modern morality tale in which happiness is a fantasy and good intentions get you nowhere. Many of the people we meet in these pages are doomed from the outset, guilty of something or harbouring shameful secrets. Those who survive do not emerge unscathed. The star of the show is the unforgettable Duchess, a courageous, profane, reckless and resourceful avenging angel who has learned everything the hard way and at a tender age is more than prepared for whatever life throws at her. The book is atmospheric, intricately plotted, and compelling from start to finish. For readers who enjoy their fiction dark, twisted and morally complex, We Begin at the End will more than satisfy. Show Less
LibraryThing member gypsysmom
This work has been highly praised by some writers of mysteries that I really respect like Louise Penny and Jane Harper so that was good enough for me. The story is heartbreaking at times but the ending is hopeful and descriptions of the land (more on that later) are so well done.
Duchess Day Radley
I've been in Montana several times and Whitaker's descriptions of the countryside seemed very accurate to me. Then I read the author bio on the inside back cover and see that he is English. None of the information I found on line said anything about him spending time in the USA so I'm not quite sure how he did that. I'm going to have to see more of this guy's writing.
Duchess Day Radley
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is an outlaw but since she is only thirteen years old she hasn't gotten into too much trouble. She has a younger brother, Robin, who is five years old. Duchess pretty much raises Robin because her mother, Star, is likely to be sleeping off a booze-up or pills or a combination of both. The sherriff of their town, Cape Haven, is called Walk. He grew up with Star and he always keeps an eye out for the kids. Walk dated Martha May and his best friend Vincent dated Star until their blissful life was destroyed when Vincent hit Star's little sister, Sissy, with his car and killed her. Vincent was tried as an adult and sent away to prison for ten years; while there he got into a fight with another inmate and killed him, adding another twenty years to his imprisonment. That is about to come to an end and Walk is hoping that when he comes back to Cape Haven he will be able to leave all that jail time behind. At first, Vincent just seems to want to work on his parents' house and not even see Walk or Star. Then one night an emergency call comes in calling Walk to Star Radley's house. There he finds Vincent sitting in the kitchen, covered in blood and Star's body in the living room. Walk doesn't belive Vincent killed Star but Vincent won't tell him what happened. Vincent also refuses to have a criminal lawyer defend him instead asking Walk to get Martha May, who is a family lawyer in a nearby town, to act for him. Duchess and Robin are taken to Montana to live with their maternal grandfather who they have never met. Duchess refuses to warm up to her grandfather but Robin seems to settle in although he has bad nightmares about the night his mother was killed because he was in the house when it happened. When it finally seems like the Radley kids might be settling in to some kind of normalcy their grandfather is killed and they have to go into foster care. Back in California Vincent's trial comes up and miraculously Martha May and Walk manage to get him acquitted. When Duchess hears the news in Montana she decides to head back to California and take care of Vincent herself. Quickly the story wraps up with all the unexplained details answered but these people like Duchess and Robin and Walk that we have come to care about are irrevocably changed.I've been in Montana several times and Whitaker's descriptions of the countryside seemed very accurate to me. Then I read the author bio on the inside back cover and see that he is English. None of the information I found on line said anything about him spending time in the USA so I'm not quite sure how he did that. I'm going to have to see more of this guy's writing.
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LibraryThing member smik
A layered novel full of mysteries. Like peeling a never-ending onion - the final solution is staggering and unexpected. Duchess Radley seems to have missed out on having a childhood, torn between looking after her mother and ensuring the safety of her young brother. She has an old head on very
Things come to a head when Vincent King returns to the town, and Walk, the Sheriff of Cape Haven, becomes determined that his childhood friend will lead a "normal" life.
There is little that I can tell you about what happens after that, without spoiling the narrative for you. I found it a challenging read, full of interesting characters, and mind-boggling scenarios.
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young shoulders.Things come to a head when Vincent King returns to the town, and Walk, the Sheriff of Cape Haven, becomes determined that his childhood friend will lead a "normal" life.
There is little that I can tell you about what happens after that, without spoiling the narrative for you. I found it a challenging read, full of interesting characters, and mind-boggling scenarios.
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LibraryThing member sbenne3
An engaging story about tragedy and how the key characters each deal with their own a bit differently. It was a fast paced read with several location and plot changes to keep it interesting.
Awards
Crime Writers' Association Awards (Shortlist — 2021)
Macavity Award (Nominee — 2022)
Barry Award (Nominee — Novel — 2022)
Ned Kelly Award (Winner — 2021)
Bästa översatta kriminalroman (Nominee — 2022)
Theakstons Old Peculier Prize (Longlist — 2021)
CWA Duncan Lawrie Gold Dagger (Shortlist — Fiction — 2021)
This Mystery is Amazing! (#1 — 2023)
LibraryReads (Monthly Pick — March 2021)
Lariat Adult Fiction Reading List (Selection — 2022)
Language
Original language
English