Kerry Lonsdale’s Everything We Give is a poignant exploration of family, identity, and the relentless pursuit of closure. This novel, the third installment in the Everything series, continues to weave the intricate tapestry of interconnected lives, focusing this time on Ian Collins, a character who has been a peripheral yet significant presence in the previous books. Lonsdale’s narrative prowess shines through as she delves into Ian’s past, his present dilemmas, and the choices that could shape his future.

At the heart of the story is Ian Collins, an award-winning photographer whose life is a paradox of success and unresolved trauma. Lonsdale crafts Ian as a deeply nuanced character, one whose professional achievements are overshadowed by personal losses. The novel opens a window into Ian’s soul, revealing a man haunted by the consequences of a single mistake that shattered his family. This mistake, which cost his mother her freedom and led to a life of estrangement from his father, is the catalyst for Ian’s lifelong quest to find his mother and, by extension, himself.

Lonsdale’s portrayal of Ian’s internal conflict is both compelling and relatable. The tension between his professional aspirations and personal desires is palpable. Ian’s dream of being featured in National Geographic represents not just a career milestone but a validation of his worth beyond the familial failures that haunt him. Yet, the return of Aimee’s ex-fiancé, James, with a message that could lead Ian to his mother, forces him to confront the very past he has been trying to reconcile.

The theme of identity is intricately woven throughout the narrative. Ian’s journey is as much about finding his mother as it is about understanding who he is without the shadow of his past looming over him. Lonsdale skillfully uses photography as a metaphor for Ian’s search for clarity and truth. Just as a photographer seeks to capture the essence of a moment, Ian seeks to capture the essence of his own life, free from the distortions of guilt and regret.

Another significant theme is the complexity of family dynamics. Lonsdale does not shy away from depicting the messy, often painful realities of familial relationships. Ian’s estrangement from his father and the absence of his mother create a void that he struggles to fill. Yet, it is his relationship with his wife, Aimee, and their daughter, Caty, that anchors him. Lonsdale paints a vivid picture of a man torn between the family he has and the family he lost, highlighting the universal struggle of balancing past and present.

Aimee, as a character, is a testament to Lonsdale’s ability to create strong, multidimensional female characters. Her presence in Ian’s life is both a source of strength and a reminder of the fragility of happiness. The reappearance of James introduces a layer of tension that tests the resilience of Ian and Aimee’s marriage. Lonsdale deftly explores the theme of trust and the impact of unresolved past relationships on present commitments.

The novel’s pacing is deliberate, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in Ian’s emotional journey. Lonsdale’s prose is evocative, capturing the beauty and pain of Ian’s world with equal measure. Her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. The narrative is interspersed with moments of introspection that provide insight into Ian’s psyche, making his journey all the more resonant.

In comparison to other works that explore similar themes, such as Jodi Picoult’s The Storyteller or Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale, Lonsdale’s novel stands out for its intimate focus on the personal rather than the historical or societal. While Picoult and Hannah often weave broader narratives that encompass significant historical events, Lonsdale’s strength lies in her ability to delve deeply into the personal struggles of her characters, making their stories feel both unique and universally relatable.

Overall, Everything We Give is a beautifully crafted novel that offers a profound exploration of the human condition. Lonsdale’s ability to create characters that resonate with readers long after the final page is turned is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. Ian’s journey is one of redemption and self-discovery, a reminder that the past, while unchangeable, does not have to define the future. For readers who appreciate stories that delve into the complexities of family, identity, and the pursuit of closure, Lonsdale’s novel is a must-read.

In conclusion, Kerry Lonsdale’s Everything We Give is a masterful exploration of the ties that bind us and the choices that define us. It is a story that will linger in the hearts and minds of its readers, a testament to the enduring power of love, forgiveness, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Whether you are a fan of the Everything series or a newcomer to Lonsdale’s work, this novel promises to be a rewarding and unforgettable experience.