Book Review - Where Rainbows End

Title: Where Rainbows End
Author: Cecelia Ahern
Publisher: HarperCollins
Release Date: 8 Nov 2004
ISBN-13: 978-0007730254

Synopsis
Childhood friends Rosie and Alex whose relationship must survive many trials and tribulations, not least the discovery of their true feelings for one another. From naughty children to rebellious teenagers, Rosie and Alex have stuck by each other through thick and thin. But just as they're discovering the joys of teenage nights on the town and dating disasters, they're separated. Alex's family moves from Dublin to America -- and Alex goes with them. For good. Rosie's lost without her best friend. But on the eve of her departure to join Alex in Boston, Rosie gets news that will change her life forever -- and keep her at home in Ireland. Their magical connection sees them through the ups and downs of each other's lives but neither of them knows whether their friendship can really survive the years and miles -- as well as new relationships. And at the back of Rosie's mind is whether they were meant to be more than just good friends all along. Misunderstandings, circumstances and sheer bad luck have kept them out of each others' arms, but when presented with the ultimate opportunity, will they gamble everything -- including their friendship -- for true love? Destiny, Alex and Rosie discover, is a funny thing and fate isn't quite done with them yet...

My Review
I have read every book by Cecelia Ahern, this was the only one I hadn't read. It's been in my tray at work for about a year but I finally got round to reading it. 
Rosie and Alex are the best of friends,  always in trouble but inseparable. This book follows them as they go from being 5 years old through to teens and into their fifties. It's different from other books as it's written completely as letters. It's a mix of letters, texts, cards, emails, notes etc. It's not set out as a novel, following them day from day. In fact there are great time chunks missing, but it doesn't detract from the book at all. You still get a complete feel for all the characters. The letters aren't just between Alex and Rosie, but also teachers to parents, parents to their children, friends, etc.
As they get into their teen years Rosie and Alex are split up, Alex's dad gets a job and moves the family away, but their friendship still remains as strong as ever. As they grow up and go in seperate directions they still remain in touch, keeping tabs on each other, offering advice and sometimes sticking their noses in. As they go through marriages, having children, job changes, graduation, and all other everyday occurrences they stick together, of course they have their arguments but surely friendship can stand the test of time.
I loved Alex as a character, he seemed so strong and independent, yet vulnerable and sweet at the same time. Rosie is feisty and fun loving, but life isn't easy, yet she never gives up. She is a great female role model and I felt my heart go out to her.
Katie is lovely - Rosie's daughter, often the tie that holds Alex and Rosie's friendship together, yet very strong willed and independent too. 
I loved the uniqueness of this book, It was like getting an inside look at their lives and being taken along through up and down.
It was one of those books that from the first page you knew what the outcome would be but still enjoyed getting there.
Ahern has a real captivating magic in her writing that sweeps you into the book.
This is one of my favourites by her and I am glad I read it. I'm looking forward to any future books coming out.

My Rating
I would give this book 9.5/10. A heart-warming, captivating read that will leave you breathless and wishing for that kind of true love.