'Some things can never be forgiven'
This book follows closely the past and present life of main character, Danny Hunter through alternating chapters. In the present Danny is working as a solicitor in London and is about to embark on case that really makes him question the juvenile criminal justice system. The defendant Danny is defending is eleven year old Sebastian Croll, who has been charged with the murder of an innocent eight year old boy.At the same time as this Danny is also dealing with the grief of the death of his foster mother, Minnie, who he has disregarded for fifteen years for something he once felt unforgivable.
In the past we follow Danny growing up from when he is first placed into Minnie's care. At first Danny hates the thought of being moved into a different home and is determined to get back to his mother and made any attempt to scare/upset Minnie. However Minnie's parenting/disciplinary methods are of something that he has never encounter before and he is shocked of her calm persona. During this element of the book you really see how the relationship changes between Minnie and Danny and how Danny grows up to be the person he is today. It also helps to explain why Danny emphasises with his client, Sebastian so well.
Overall I love the way the alternating chapters work together as they really make you understand how Daniel has become the person he is in the present. I also love how the book raises awareness of issues such as domestic abuse and parent/child relationships within these environments. As well as the issues of the juvenile criminal justice system and raises questions such as 'When is a child old enough to be responsible for their own actions?' and whether a custodial sentence really the best outcome for a child of that age.
Also on a personal level this book as also made me think about myself and my own relationships and whether somethings are just best to be forgiven and moved on from, rather than spending your life resenting that person.
I absolutely loved this book it hits your funny bone and at the same time pulls on your heart strings and also makes you look upon your own life. So over all I would rate this five stars.
