'Tully' - the novel and the principal character of the same name - touched me like no other book has ever done. It has now been in publication for almost 9 years but have decided to review it as a reminder to all readers. I could ramble on for far too long with my personal review of it but I think its back cover and 'Company'-review does it justice:

"Tully Makker is a tough young woman from the wrong side of the tracks and she is not always easy to like.

But if Tully gives friendship and loyalty, she gives them for good, and she forms an endearing bond with Jennifer and Julie, schoolfriends from very different backgrounds.

As they grow into the world of the seventies and eighties, the lives of the three best friends are changed forever by two young men, Robin and Jack, and a tragedy which engulfs them all.

Against the odds, Tully emerges into young womanhood, marriage and a career. At last Tully Makker has life under control.

And then life strickes back in the most unexpected way of all..."

'Company' review:

"You'll never look at life the same way again. Pick up this book and prepare to have your emotions wrung so completely you'll be sobbing your heart out one minute and laughing through your tears the next. Tully could be any of us - a young woman who is strong, full of hope and carrying a lot of childhood baggage. Her experiences of pain, despair and betrayal are offset by moments of dazzling joy, love and, above all, friendship. Read it and weep - literally."

Released on Saturday, April 26, 2003 at 'Sugar Bar', Market St (nr Eagle St), Brisbne City in Brisbane, Queensland Australia.