I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of Libby Page’s latest novel The Island Home last month and I really enjoyed it. I knew her debut novel The Lido was a huge success and went on to be a Sunday Times bestseller.
The Lido by Libby Page was published in 2018 and as it had been described as “joyful”, “tender” and “full of heart” – exactly the kind of book I wanted to read.
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Plot
Rosemary is 86 and has lived in Brixton all her life. The place she knows so well has gradually changed over the years, with shops and libraries closing and reopening as new shops and trendy bars. There’s only her beloved lido, where she swims every day, that has remained a constant throughout Rosemary’s life.
Kate meanwhile is 26 and is feeling overwhelmed. She feels her career as a local journalist is going nowhere and she has struggled to make friends since moving to London. When the lido is threatened with closure Kate is tasked with covering the story. She hopes this could be her time to shine but after meeting the local residents, and Rosemary, in particular, she realises the lido is more than just a place to swim.
The Lido is a story of unlikely friendships, hope and community.
The Lido Book Review
I really enjoyed this lovely heartwarming read. It’s a character-driven novel and I loved how each one, however fleeting their appearances may be, had their own story to tell. Libby Page expertly creates a real sense of community within the pages, just as she did within The Island Home.
It’s not a fast-paced story, full of drama and twists. It’s a much slower pace and allows the reader to really emerge themselves in the story and get to know the characters. I found Kate to be a really relatable character. Her anxiety and panic attacks were sensitively covered and I can completely empathise with her struggle with how she feels she is perceived. Rosemary is a wonderful character and I loved reading about her life and her relationship with George.
It’s a gentle read and I found it made a lovely change from thrillers and whodunnits. Who doesn’t want a bit of escapism right now?! It’s a story of community, friendships and fighting for what you believe in.
What should I read after The Lido by Libby Page?
If you enjoyed The Lido, then I’d definitely suggest reading the sequel, The Lifeline. I’d also recommend The Island Home and The Vintage Shop by Libby Page.
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