Reviewed by Hannah Bissett
As a Mum who has experienced PP I was intrigued to read this book. The author really evokes the area the book is set in, providing a landscape backdrop (and accurate weather, as a fellow northerner I know!) to the character’s story as it unfolds, intriguingly through a mixture of “Now” and “Then” chapters. At first this slightly threw me in terms of what was going on in the story but it also intrigued me and as one reviewer also wrote, I too had devoured the book in the course of a weekend! It is a gripping read – intertwining the present-day life of Leah and her recollection and reflections on past events, and her search for answers about her life and the people she brings into it in the aftermath of her husband’s death.
“A powerful story which will resonate for many”
The book reaches a climax with spine-tingling terror and reality, describing postpartum psychosis and the past events and present terror that culminates in a devastating final chapter. An Author’s Note at the end of the book gives clear information about postpartum psychosis and also signposts to APP, emphasising the importance of getting help and treatment for this psychiatric emergency. The book is not an easy read in places but it is a powerful story which will resonate for many and will stay with me too.
The Flight of Cornelia Blackwood is available from all good retailers. Check out the publisher’s link for more information and how to buy.