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Taková, jaká jsi
Když bylo Olivii Tennysonové šestnáct, sepsala si Seznam svých snů. Bylo na něm všechno, co si pro sebe přála, včetně šťastného manželství a rodiny. Teď je jí devětadvacet, je stále svobodná a žije se svou až příliš starostlivou matkou. Cítí, že je čas na to vzít věci do vlastních rukou. Aniž by o tom matce řekla, a hlavně aniž by ji požádala o svolení, najde Ollie ideální místo pro svůj nový začátek – vesničku Bigley Bottom. Modré vchodové dveře a zahrada, z níž vede cesta do lesů – to by se za vysněný domov považovat dalo! Teď už zbývá jen dokončit zbytek Seznamu a zjistit kým vlastně je, než do svého života pustí romantiku. Koneckonců, jak by uprostřed lesů mohla vůbec najít muže svých snů…
360 pages, Paperback
First published February 17, 2022
2344 people are currently reading
2737 people want to read
About the author
Beth Moran
23 books902 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Beth Moran initially worked as a biochemist and then taught antenatal classes before becoming an author. She loves to write contemporary women`s fiction set in and around Sherwood Forest, where she lives with her family
Beth Moran initially worked as a biochemist and then taught antenatal classes before becoming an author. She loves to write contemporary women`s fiction set in and around Sherwood Forest, where she lives with her family
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 617 reviews
August 5, 2022
Help I need a love doctor!!!
You are just about to start reading ‘Just the way you are’, so what do you do. You sit in your most comfortable chair with a glass or cup of whatever you enjoy, sigh (a happy sigh) because of that cosy feeling you get when you cuddle up to that feel good book that makes everything ok. A title that conquers up sentiment of love and acceptance from someone that loves you ‘.. just the way you are’.
I sigh again with a smile, I am all loved up and ready for a book to get me in the feelers.
Then you feel you are slapped around the face with a wet fish as you are introduced to the mad needy mother and within minutes you are out of that dream. Wait wait !!! I am reading ‘just the way you are’ not some psychological character study into crazy mothers. So I stopped, looked at the book cover, anxiously hoping I accidently switched the book inside, but alas I was reading the said book – it just took one mammoth detour into the dark abyss and some awful characters.
This time one long sigh, but not the happy one we talked about earlier. Nope, this time one of those sighs of disappointment as the story did not get any better, the mother was not any more likeable, the story of romance lacked spark and the writing style did nothing for me. And ‘that is just the way I felt’.
I am not a romance reader but have read a few little gems in recent months (like Book Lovers) and I am hoping for that all important change in my taste, the way I discovered Fantasy, that will open up a hugely popular genre and an abundance of books to tap into.
This has taught me two things; first of all don’t be drawn to the book because of the words in the title that mean something to you. Secondly, ask for recommendations from your GR friends who devour this genre, because I tried to go solo and got it so wrong with this. But then that is ‘just the way I am’.
So to my GR friends who love romance, this one might not be for you either and I do need a great romance novel to restore my faith in romance writers and books. So recommendations are welcome.
On a serious note, please read other reviews because this is not my favourite genre, and this was not the book that could convert me. That’s just the way it is sometimes’.
You are just about to start reading ‘Just the way you are’, so what do you do. You sit in your most comfortable chair with a glass or cup of whatever you enjoy, sigh (a happy sigh) because of that cosy feeling you get when you cuddle up to that feel good book that makes everything ok. A title that conquers up sentiment of love and acceptance from someone that loves you ‘.. just the way you are’.
I sigh again with a smile, I am all loved up and ready for a book to get me in the feelers.
Then you feel you are slapped around the face with a wet fish as you are introduced to the mad needy mother and within minutes you are out of that dream. Wait wait !!! I am reading ‘just the way you are’ not some psychological character study into crazy mothers. So I stopped, looked at the book cover, anxiously hoping I accidently switched the book inside, but alas I was reading the said book – it just took one mammoth detour into the dark abyss and some awful characters.
This time one long sigh, but not the happy one we talked about earlier. Nope, this time one of those sighs of disappointment as the story did not get any better, the mother was not any more likeable, the story of romance lacked spark and the writing style did nothing for me. And ‘that is just the way I felt’.
I am not a romance reader but have read a few little gems in recent months (like Book Lovers) and I am hoping for that all important change in my taste, the way I discovered Fantasy, that will open up a hugely popular genre and an abundance of books to tap into.
This has taught me two things; first of all don’t be drawn to the book because of the words in the title that mean something to you. Secondly, ask for recommendations from your GR friends who devour this genre, because I tried to go solo and got it so wrong with this. But then that is ‘just the way I am’.
So to my GR friends who love romance, this one might not be for you either and I do need a great romance novel to restore my faith in romance writers and books. So recommendations are welcome.
On a serious note, please read other reviews because this is not my favourite genre, and this was not the book that could convert me. That’s just the way it is sometimes’.
February 24, 2022
5☆ A Feel-good, Must Read Romance!
Just The Way You Are is a Heart-warming, Uplifting Romance that focuses on Self Confidence, Finding Oneself, Friendships, New Beginnings, Fresh Starts, Kindness and Acceptance.
Ollie is tired of being downtrodden and manipulated by her Mother, so she finally plucks up the courage to find herself an idyllic cottage and give herself the opportunity to live her own life. Even if that means cutting most ties from her Mother.
But with the help from some really good friends, some new and some old, she builds up her confidence to find out who Ollie is!
One thing Ollie is determined to take on is her Dream List, a special list she's been updating since she was younger, a list of all the things she wanted to do with her potential partner, except she still hasn't found one!
However her Bestie has put her on a dating and flirting ban....so she's going at the list on her own!
Can Ollie successfully complete her Dream List on her own or will the devilishly handsome Sam get in the way?
There is sooo much I loved about this book. The characters were amazing and so well written, I warmed to them all straight away. Especially Joan...Ollie's teenage neighbour who melted my heart.
Oh and then there was Nesbit, the pup who just reminds me of my 8month old pup...which had me laughing so hard at all he's cheekiness.
There's plenty of Heartfelt Moments, Humour and a Sprinkle of Romance...Just The Way You Are Are is an Unputdownable Book, that I can't recommend enough! It certainly ticked all my boxes!
Beth Moran is a superb author and I can't wait for her next book!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources and Boldwood Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2022/0...
Just The Way You Are is a Heart-warming, Uplifting Romance that focuses on Self Confidence, Finding Oneself, Friendships, New Beginnings, Fresh Starts, Kindness and Acceptance.
Ollie is tired of being downtrodden and manipulated by her Mother, so she finally plucks up the courage to find herself an idyllic cottage and give herself the opportunity to live her own life. Even if that means cutting most ties from her Mother.
But with the help from some really good friends, some new and some old, she builds up her confidence to find out who Ollie is!
One thing Ollie is determined to take on is her Dream List, a special list she's been updating since she was younger, a list of all the things she wanted to do with her potential partner, except she still hasn't found one!
However her Bestie has put her on a dating and flirting ban....so she's going at the list on her own!
Can Ollie successfully complete her Dream List on her own or will the devilishly handsome Sam get in the way?
There is sooo much I loved about this book. The characters were amazing and so well written, I warmed to them all straight away. Especially Joan...Ollie's teenage neighbour who melted my heart.
Oh and then there was Nesbit, the pup who just reminds me of my 8month old pup...which had me laughing so hard at all he's cheekiness.
There's plenty of Heartfelt Moments, Humour and a Sprinkle of Romance...Just The Way You Are Are is an Unputdownable Book, that I can't recommend enough! It certainly ticked all my boxes!
Beth Moran is a superb author and I can't wait for her next book!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources and Boldwood Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2022/0...
February 25, 2022
Ollie Tennyson is twenty-nine years old, and she has never lived on her own. With a controlling and manipulative mother who guilts Ollie into staying in a toxic environment, Ollie finds it difficult to make the jump towards independence. However, when her mother foils a Valentine’s date, Ollie decides she’s had enough. She purchases a home, moves out, and blocks her hounding mother, determined to complete her bucket list before getting involved with anyone. But then Ollie meets her neighbors, and she soon realizes that her journey has only just begun.
Ollie is such a dynamic and likable character, and her story is relatable and interesting. The book focuses on Ollie taking control of her life and learning to live on her own without the destructive influence of her overbearing mother. Emotionally controlled for her entire adult life, Ollie makes some major changes and puts herself first for the first time in her life. It’s great to see her embrace life, learn what is important to her, create boundaries, and cultivate new and fulfilling relationships, which stands in sharp contrast to the toxic relationship she has with her mother.
The story touches on difficult subjects, including death, toxic and abusive relationships, mental illness, physical illness, money issues, and more. Faced with so many new experiences and new relationships, as well as some concerns regarding said relationships, Ollie is lucky to have a great support system in place. Her long-time best friend, her aunt, and others prove encouraging and supportive of Ollie’s new life and act as strong sounding boards. Moving away from a parent can be difficult at any age, and when you have a manipulative and abusive mother like Ollie’s, I would imagine the feelings are very complicated. I thought the author addressed these conflicting feelings well – the relief and guilt, the sadness and happiness, the sense of freedom and fear of being alone. There’s so much to unravel, and Ollie learns a lot about herself throughout her journey.
The relationship Ollie develops with Joan is one of my favorite parts of the story. I think both Joan and Ollie learn a lot from each other, and their connection is so sweet and lovely. They have a shared love of reading, which is the kind of neighbor I would love! Ollie also develops a great friendship with Joan’s mother, as well as several other people in the story. Ollie has a way of breaking down others’ walls. From Joan’s cynical mother to her introverted and curmudgeonly neighbor to the people she helps with literacy struggles to the ornery and unwelcoming librarian, Ollie sees past the surface and tries to befriend these seemingly friendless people. I think Ollie learns what it means to be connected to people without being manipulated and burdened by relationships. She also learns how to set boundaries and stick up for herself, which is fantastic! And these secondary characters are great (except Ollie’s mother. She’s a troll.). Each character is layered and dynamic and has a compelling story to tell. I could easily see a sequel that focuses on several of these interesting people.
The love story is another wonderful part of the story, though it did not dominate the plot. The story focuses more on Ollie’s transformation, which, in turn, contributes to the development of new relationships, including her relationship with Sam. It’s too bad she has a no-man mandate because this ranger is hunky and sweet! He has such a great personality, and he is so calm and patient. He and Ollie both have complicated relationships with members of their families, and it’s interesting to see how they each deal with these issues. I like how their relationship slowly builds, and I rooted for them to find happiness together despite the obstacles in front of them.
A story of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and finding love when you least expect it, Just the Way You Are is a heart-warming and thought-provoking read that I would most definitely recommend to readers of contemporary fiction or romance.
Ollie is such a dynamic and likable character, and her story is relatable and interesting. The book focuses on Ollie taking control of her life and learning to live on her own without the destructive influence of her overbearing mother. Emotionally controlled for her entire adult life, Ollie makes some major changes and puts herself first for the first time in her life. It’s great to see her embrace life, learn what is important to her, create boundaries, and cultivate new and fulfilling relationships, which stands in sharp contrast to the toxic relationship she has with her mother.
The story touches on difficult subjects, including death, toxic and abusive relationships, mental illness, physical illness, money issues, and more. Faced with so many new experiences and new relationships, as well as some concerns regarding said relationships, Ollie is lucky to have a great support system in place. Her long-time best friend, her aunt, and others prove encouraging and supportive of Ollie’s new life and act as strong sounding boards. Moving away from a parent can be difficult at any age, and when you have a manipulative and abusive mother like Ollie’s, I would imagine the feelings are very complicated. I thought the author addressed these conflicting feelings well – the relief and guilt, the sadness and happiness, the sense of freedom and fear of being alone. There’s so much to unravel, and Ollie learns a lot about herself throughout her journey.
The relationship Ollie develops with Joan is one of my favorite parts of the story. I think both Joan and Ollie learn a lot from each other, and their connection is so sweet and lovely. They have a shared love of reading, which is the kind of neighbor I would love! Ollie also develops a great friendship with Joan’s mother, as well as several other people in the story. Ollie has a way of breaking down others’ walls. From Joan’s cynical mother to her introverted and curmudgeonly neighbor to the people she helps with literacy struggles to the ornery and unwelcoming librarian, Ollie sees past the surface and tries to befriend these seemingly friendless people. I think Ollie learns what it means to be connected to people without being manipulated and burdened by relationships. She also learns how to set boundaries and stick up for herself, which is fantastic! And these secondary characters are great (except Ollie’s mother. She’s a troll.). Each character is layered and dynamic and has a compelling story to tell. I could easily see a sequel that focuses on several of these interesting people.
The love story is another wonderful part of the story, though it did not dominate the plot. The story focuses more on Ollie’s transformation, which, in turn, contributes to the development of new relationships, including her relationship with Sam. It’s too bad she has a no-man mandate because this ranger is hunky and sweet! He has such a great personality, and he is so calm and patient. He and Ollie both have complicated relationships with members of their families, and it’s interesting to see how they each deal with these issues. I like how their relationship slowly builds, and I rooted for them to find happiness together despite the obstacles in front of them.
A story of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and finding love when you least expect it, Just the Way You Are is a heart-warming and thought-provoking read that I would most definitely recommend to readers of contemporary fiction or romance.
Read
February 21, 2022I dnf'd at 32%.
Don't get me wrong, the writing is lovely and the characters pleasant enough and so on but it felt like I'd been reading for AGES and when I realised I was only a third of the way through the book and nothing was really happening apart from the same things over and over, I decided to give up. I need more 'meat' in my novels, more reality, more character development, more 'story'. Less candy-floss.
If you are looking for a light, frothy, part-romance summer sort of beach read this is probably right up your street. Me? Not so much.
Not rating.
Don't get me wrong, the writing is lovely and the characters pleasant enough and so on but it felt like I'd been reading for AGES and when I realised I was only a third of the way through the book and nothing was really happening apart from the same things over and over, I decided to give up. I need more 'meat' in my novels, more reality, more character development, more 'story'. Less candy-floss.
If you are looking for a light, frothy, part-romance summer sort of beach read this is probably right up your street. Me? Not so much.
Not rating.
February 16, 2022
4.5⭐️
Loved the story! A slow burn romance with lots of real, struggling and at times dysfunctional people who are sharing their lives with us. I loved Sam, he was just my type of boyfriend. I also enjoyed Ollie and her journey to start living again. I thought her to be a wonderful friend. And I struggle with a lot of the same things. I think I’m going to make my own dream list.
I loved the writing and I highly recommend it.
Thanks Boldwood Books via NetGalley.
Loved the story! A slow burn romance with lots of real, struggling and at times dysfunctional people who are sharing their lives with us. I loved Sam, he was just my type of boyfriend. I also enjoyed Ollie and her journey to start living again. I thought her to be a wonderful friend. And I struggle with a lot of the same things. I think I’m going to make my own dream list.
I loved the writing and I highly recommend it.
Thanks Boldwood Books via NetGalley.
February 18, 2022
Ollie Tennyson wrote a Dream List when she was sixteen. Fourteen years later, none of her dreams have materialised because her manipulative mother won't let her have a life. Every time Ollie tries to go on a date, or on holiday with friends, her mother fakes a panic attack, or heart palpitations or some other illness to keep Ollie firmly by her side.
But when Ollie discovers her mother has ransacked her bedroom drawers, opened her diary and dug out her Dream List, proposing the two of them do many of the things on the list for Ollie's impending thirtieth birthday, something snaps and Ollie decides to move out.
Ollie's best friend has her own burdens (I assume she had her own book) and challenges Ollie not to swap catering to her mother's every need to doing the same thing for a man, persuading her to sign a 'Man Ban' until Ollie has completed all the things on her list (many of which she dreamt of doing with her dream guy) solo.
Ollie moves into a tiny end of row cottage, her two neighbours being an elderly, bad tempered, man and a single mother with a pre-teen daughter. Oh, and there's a hunky forest ranger who patrols Sherwood Forest which extends just beyond the cottage's shared garden.
Can Ollie become her own woman without a man?
This is a sweet, fun, contemporary romance. Ollie's Pollyanna-like charms soon help her befriend her new neighbours, foster romance between her adult-literacy clients, and melt the heart of the prim and proper local librarian.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release and some truly horrendous typos.
But when Ollie discovers her mother has ransacked her bedroom drawers, opened her diary and dug out her Dream List, proposing the two of them do many of the things on the list for Ollie's impending thirtieth birthday, something snaps and Ollie decides to move out.
Ollie's best friend has her own burdens (I assume she had her own book) and challenges Ollie not to swap catering to her mother's every need to doing the same thing for a man, persuading her to sign a 'Man Ban' until Ollie has completed all the things on her list (many of which she dreamt of doing with her dream guy) solo.
Ollie moves into a tiny end of row cottage, her two neighbours being an elderly, bad tempered, man and a single mother with a pre-teen daughter. Oh, and there's a hunky forest ranger who patrols Sherwood Forest which extends just beyond the cottage's shared garden.
Can Ollie become her own woman without a man?
This is a sweet, fun, contemporary romance. Ollie's Pollyanna-like charms soon help her befriend her new neighbours, foster romance between her adult-literacy clients, and melt the heart of the prim and proper local librarian.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release and some truly horrendous typos.
September 25, 2022
This was my first Beth Moran book, and I really enjoyed it.
The story was light and funny, and yet it had a deeper level to it too.
The main character is dealing with a manipulative mum and her best friend challenges her to find out who she is before running into the arms of a man. To learn about herself. To complete her "dream list" herself. There's still a romantic element, but overall this is a book about women learning to be comfortable with who they are--even if that person they are is someone who is making it on their own.
Recommend!
The story was light and funny, and yet it had a deeper level to it too.
The main character is dealing with a manipulative mum and her best friend challenges her to find out who she is before running into the arms of a man. To learn about herself. To complete her "dream list" herself. There's still a romantic element, but overall this is a book about women learning to be comfortable with who they are--even if that person they are is someone who is making it on their own.
Recommend!
February 10, 2022
It’s long past time for Ollie to take control of her life. Still under the thumb of a manipulative mother, Ollie finds her backbone and begins to love her own life. I liked her gumption and all the changes she made. I knew who she would end up with before he was ever introduced. It’s a nice, straight forward read. Thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for the early read.
April 12, 2022
DNF' 33%
This was too candyfloss for me, I prefer stories with more intensity and action. I found myself trudging through it and when I realised I was a third of the way through... Nope, I'm sorry but nope.
Um right, the story felt too rushed and jumpy and the characters too "cartoonish" I found it hard to believe in the characters, story or romance. There were scenes that felt like they came out of nowhere and the dialogue was so unnatural I couldn't imagine it being said unless it was in a theatre play. I don't usually like leaving negative reviews and if I'm honest I very rarely have to since most of the books I've read have been good. This may be some people's cup of tea but it just couldn't grip me. There wasnt anything outwardly offensive which is good.
Ollie - she just wasn't someone I could see myself in. I understand the whole journey of her character is that she has been sheltered and dependant on her mother but common girl. She also has this mother Theresa vibe about her where she's sickly sweet to everyone and so submissive. Like girl, flip out, say "yeah absolutely not, piss off" that's what I'd say. Maybe it's a personal preference but I just like my female characters to react how I would to certain situations, like if a dog was brought into my house with flacky skin and worms I'd be like "fuck no, sorry I love dogs but I ain't catching nothing" or of it peed. I realise I sound heartless, I would still help but I wanted Ollie to have a bit more personality than just accepting everything and helping everyone, find who you are outside of what you can do for others girl. You can help but you don't always have to be chipper and agreeable to it. I was expecting her to move far from home and descover how to make decisions and do everything for herself instead of doing things for her mother or others all the time.... That didn't happen. (obviously I didn't finish the book so it might've but I don't care to find out.)
The plot - it felt like so many scenarios were set up simply for us to see what a lovely and helpful person Ollie is. I get it. The story was fine, I like the breaking away from her mother and finding herself but it could have been done so much better. Also the trope with lists that the MC wants to complete is good in theory but I've never seen a book with it done well, I said what I said. The list in this sense was so bland, lay in on Sunday.... Wow.
The romance - *crickets* I'm honestly fine with minamilistic amounts of romance in a book, if there's good characters and it's about self discovery, I completely understand. But yeah this romance had no spark and I didn't really care for it.
Last points -
Not a fan of kids in books, said it before and ill say it again. Apologies for those people who can't possible imagine that kids arnt the centre of everyone's universe.
In conclusion I hate writing negative reviews but these are just my thoughts, I have just come out of a reading slump so that might attribute to me not liking it. But overall the fact that I cared for none of the characters was disheartening and I'm genuinely sad I didn't like this. Anyway... One to the next book!
This was too candyfloss for me, I prefer stories with more intensity and action. I found myself trudging through it and when I realised I was a third of the way through... Nope, I'm sorry but nope.
Um right, the story felt too rushed and jumpy and the characters too "cartoonish" I found it hard to believe in the characters, story or romance. There were scenes that felt like they came out of nowhere and the dialogue was so unnatural I couldn't imagine it being said unless it was in a theatre play. I don't usually like leaving negative reviews and if I'm honest I very rarely have to since most of the books I've read have been good. This may be some people's cup of tea but it just couldn't grip me. There wasnt anything outwardly offensive which is good.
Ollie - she just wasn't someone I could see myself in. I understand the whole journey of her character is that she has been sheltered and dependant on her mother but common girl. She also has this mother Theresa vibe about her where she's sickly sweet to everyone and so submissive. Like girl, flip out, say "yeah absolutely not, piss off" that's what I'd say. Maybe it's a personal preference but I just like my female characters to react how I would to certain situations, like if a dog was brought into my house with flacky skin and worms I'd be like "fuck no, sorry I love dogs but I ain't catching nothing" or of it peed. I realise I sound heartless, I would still help but I wanted Ollie to have a bit more personality than just accepting everything and helping everyone, find who you are outside of what you can do for others girl. You can help but you don't always have to be chipper and agreeable to it. I was expecting her to move far from home and descover how to make decisions and do everything for herself instead of doing things for her mother or others all the time.... That didn't happen. (obviously I didn't finish the book so it might've but I don't care to find out.)
The plot - it felt like so many scenarios were set up simply for us to see what a lovely and helpful person Ollie is. I get it. The story was fine, I like the breaking away from her mother and finding herself but it could have been done so much better. Also the trope with lists that the MC wants to complete is good in theory but I've never seen a book with it done well, I said what I said. The list in this sense was so bland, lay in on Sunday.... Wow.
The romance - *crickets* I'm honestly fine with minamilistic amounts of romance in a book, if there's good characters and it's about self discovery, I completely understand. But yeah this romance had no spark and I didn't really care for it.
Last points -
Not a fan of kids in books, said it before and ill say it again. Apologies for those people who can't possible imagine that kids arnt the centre of everyone's universe.
In conclusion I hate writing negative reviews but these are just my thoughts, I have just come out of a reading slump so that might attribute to me not liking it. But overall the fact that I cared for none of the characters was disheartening and I'm genuinely sad I didn't like this. Anyway... One to the next book!
August 6, 2024
4.75 stars. This is Taylor Swift's Begin Again in book format and I loved it. It gets sweeter with every reread
May 24, 2024
This book was definitely one of my favourites so far from Moran. I liked the different subplots, although do think that some worked better than others. The characters were likeable and I really got a sense of Ollie trying to strike out on her own, once and for all.
Ollie, at nearly thirty years of age, is still living at home. But not in a good way. Her hypochondriac of a mother does everything in her power to ensure her daughter never leaves: faking illnesses, getting herself to hospital, emotional abuse… anything to guilt-trip Ollie into sacrificing everything. Single as a result of her mother’s interference, Ollie realises this toxic relationship cannot continue. I was shocked by how far her mother would go and was pleased when Ollie makes plans to remove her mother from her life, move on, and move out.
Cutting out her mother was quite an extreme response but it was definitely needed! Readers get to see Ollie blossom into a confident individual who is able to make her own choices, without reporting back to someone else. Coinciding with this life-changing decision, Ollie also sees it as time to finally complete her Dream List – a list of challenges and wishes that she wrote when she was a teenager. For me, I thought this was the weakest part of the story because the subplots of Ollie’s work at the library and her neighbours were far more interesting. Plus, working through a sort of ‘bucket list’ has been done so many times before and I didn’t think Ollie’s choices were particularly memorable.
Instead, I loved reading about the “Library Lady” Irene, the Frea-K Three-Ks and Joan. Not to mention the mysterious ranger and Ollie’s immediate neighbour, the cast of characters added so much flavour to this story. Joan’s story was a more sobering element to the plot, counterbalanced by Ollie’s growing friendship with Sam. I definitely wished he featured even more in the story, growing frustrated with Ollie’s “No Man Mandate” where she has promised to stay single whilst the Dream List needs completing. In my opinion, this just holds her and the story back a bit.
This is a light-hearted story that has a lovely forest setting and a warming community. Even though it takes place over several months, it certainly felt like a summer read and I think this helped by the lovely characters. There’s plenty going on in this story so it is less than predictable and I enjoyed watching Ollie blossom from a down-trodden daughter to an independent woman who is happy with life once more.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ollie, at nearly thirty years of age, is still living at home. But not in a good way. Her hypochondriac of a mother does everything in her power to ensure her daughter never leaves: faking illnesses, getting herself to hospital, emotional abuse… anything to guilt-trip Ollie into sacrificing everything. Single as a result of her mother’s interference, Ollie realises this toxic relationship cannot continue. I was shocked by how far her mother would go and was pleased when Ollie makes plans to remove her mother from her life, move on, and move out.
Cutting out her mother was quite an extreme response but it was definitely needed! Readers get to see Ollie blossom into a confident individual who is able to make her own choices, without reporting back to someone else. Coinciding with this life-changing decision, Ollie also sees it as time to finally complete her Dream List – a list of challenges and wishes that she wrote when she was a teenager. For me, I thought this was the weakest part of the story because the subplots of Ollie’s work at the library and her neighbours were far more interesting. Plus, working through a sort of ‘bucket list’ has been done so many times before and I didn’t think Ollie’s choices were particularly memorable.
Instead, I loved reading about the “Library Lady” Irene, the Frea-K Three-Ks and Joan. Not to mention the mysterious ranger and Ollie’s immediate neighbour, the cast of characters added so much flavour to this story. Joan’s story was a more sobering element to the plot, counterbalanced by Ollie’s growing friendship with Sam. I definitely wished he featured even more in the story, growing frustrated with Ollie’s “No Man Mandate” where she has promised to stay single whilst the Dream List needs completing. In my opinion, this just holds her and the story back a bit.
This is a light-hearted story that has a lovely forest setting and a warming community. Even though it takes place over several months, it certainly felt like a summer read and I think this helped by the lovely characters. There’s plenty going on in this story so it is less than predictable and I enjoyed watching Ollie blossom from a down-trodden daughter to an independent woman who is happy with life once more.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2024
Van Uitgeverij Kokboekencerntrum en Feelgood met een hart kreeg ik een recensie-exemplaar van deze prachtige nieuwe feelgood. Het is het eerste boek van Beth Moran dat ik ga lezen, maar de cover en de flaptekst zijn uitnodigend, waardoor ik hoge verwachtingen heb.
Olivia Tennyson, ofwel Ollie, probeert een leven te creëren zonder de bemoeienis van haar moeder. Als tiener creëerde Ollie al een wensenlijst met alle dingen waar ze van droomde. Hierop staan: een eigen huis, een gelukkig huwelijk, een hond, een gezin. Inmiddels is Olie 29, single en zit ze dik onder de plak bij haar overbezorgde en manipulatieve moeder. Hoogste tijd dus om hier verandering in te brengen. Ollie gaat, zonder haar moeder hiervan op de hoogte te brengen, op zoek naar een droomhuis. Ze betrekt een schattige cottage met een tuin die leidt naar een groot bos. Nu dat gelukt is, hoeft Ollie alleen nog maar de rest van haar droomlijst af te vinken en uit te vinden wie ze werkelijk is. Dan durft ze pas te dromen van romantiek. Hoe moet ze namelijk haar droomman vinden, midden in het bos?
Wat een prachtig, pakkend, meeslepend en goed verhaal. Ondanks dat het verhaal echt een feelgood is gebleven is het een verhaal met zoveel mooie, aangrijpende en ook taboe thema's, kent het diepgang en zit het verhaal bijzonder sterk in elkaar. Beth Moran, heeft een levendige, vlotte en sfeervolle schrijfstijl en weet het verhaal luchtig maar ook met gevoel en emotie tot de lezer te brengen.
We volgen het verhaal van de 29-jarige Ollie. In veel opzichten is Ollie een redelijk doorsnee jonge vrouw, alleen ze gaat wel gebukt onder een zwaar manipulatieve en misbruik makende moeder waardoor ze totaal niet zichzelf is en niet het leven leidt dat ze wil leiden. Ollie is, net als de andere personages in het verhaal, realistisch en goed neergezet. Ook de andere personages zijn erg divers, uniek en verschillend waardoor het verhaal kloppend en enigszins realistisch aanvoelt.
Het verhaal kent een mooie opbouw en begint in de situaties waarin Ollie nog gebukt gaat onder haar moeder. Beth Moran weet op prachtige wijze de transformatie en groei van Ollie neer te zetten, die met ups en downs gepaard gaat. Ook de mensen die Ollie ontmoet in haar tijd dat ze voor zichzelf kiest, laten zien hoe lief, zorgzaam en ruimhartig persoon ze is. De steun van haar tante en beste vriendin gedurende dit proces is ook prachtig verwoord. In het verhaal komen heftige thema's aan bod, waaronder manipulatieve ouders, kinderverwaarlozing, ziekte en drugsgebruik. Ondanks al deze heftige thema's blijft het wel een feelgood en weet Beth Moran het verhaal luchtig te maken met leuke humor of een leuke wending, hierdoor geniet je van elke pagina van dit mooie verhaal. Het verhaal kent veel ontroerende, aangrijpende en prachtige momenten die je kippenvel geven en je hart laten smelten.
Precies zoals je bent is een prachtige, aangrijpende maar ook mega pakkende feelgood roman van Beth Moran. Beth Moran heeft een luchtige, levendige en vlotte schrijfstijl en weet haar prachtige en mooie verhaal met sfeer en emotie op je over te brengen. De personages zijn prachtig uitgewerkt. Het verhaal bevat wel heftige thema's maar blijft ondanks alles een feelgood die vlot en lekker weg leest. Een echte aanrader!
Olivia Tennyson, ofwel Ollie, probeert een leven te creëren zonder de bemoeienis van haar moeder. Als tiener creëerde Ollie al een wensenlijst met alle dingen waar ze van droomde. Hierop staan: een eigen huis, een gelukkig huwelijk, een hond, een gezin. Inmiddels is Olie 29, single en zit ze dik onder de plak bij haar overbezorgde en manipulatieve moeder. Hoogste tijd dus om hier verandering in te brengen. Ollie gaat, zonder haar moeder hiervan op de hoogte te brengen, op zoek naar een droomhuis. Ze betrekt een schattige cottage met een tuin die leidt naar een groot bos. Nu dat gelukt is, hoeft Ollie alleen nog maar de rest van haar droomlijst af te vinken en uit te vinden wie ze werkelijk is. Dan durft ze pas te dromen van romantiek. Hoe moet ze namelijk haar droomman vinden, midden in het bos?
Wat een prachtig, pakkend, meeslepend en goed verhaal. Ondanks dat het verhaal echt een feelgood is gebleven is het een verhaal met zoveel mooie, aangrijpende en ook taboe thema's, kent het diepgang en zit het verhaal bijzonder sterk in elkaar. Beth Moran, heeft een levendige, vlotte en sfeervolle schrijfstijl en weet het verhaal luchtig maar ook met gevoel en emotie tot de lezer te brengen.
We volgen het verhaal van de 29-jarige Ollie. In veel opzichten is Ollie een redelijk doorsnee jonge vrouw, alleen ze gaat wel gebukt onder een zwaar manipulatieve en misbruik makende moeder waardoor ze totaal niet zichzelf is en niet het leven leidt dat ze wil leiden. Ollie is, net als de andere personages in het verhaal, realistisch en goed neergezet. Ook de andere personages zijn erg divers, uniek en verschillend waardoor het verhaal kloppend en enigszins realistisch aanvoelt.
Het verhaal kent een mooie opbouw en begint in de situaties waarin Ollie nog gebukt gaat onder haar moeder. Beth Moran weet op prachtige wijze de transformatie en groei van Ollie neer te zetten, die met ups en downs gepaard gaat. Ook de mensen die Ollie ontmoet in haar tijd dat ze voor zichzelf kiest, laten zien hoe lief, zorgzaam en ruimhartig persoon ze is. De steun van haar tante en beste vriendin gedurende dit proces is ook prachtig verwoord. In het verhaal komen heftige thema's aan bod, waaronder manipulatieve ouders, kinderverwaarlozing, ziekte en drugsgebruik. Ondanks al deze heftige thema's blijft het wel een feelgood en weet Beth Moran het verhaal luchtig te maken met leuke humor of een leuke wending, hierdoor geniet je van elke pagina van dit mooie verhaal. Het verhaal kent veel ontroerende, aangrijpende en prachtige momenten die je kippenvel geven en je hart laten smelten.
Precies zoals je bent is een prachtige, aangrijpende maar ook mega pakkende feelgood roman van Beth Moran. Beth Moran heeft een luchtige, levendige en vlotte schrijfstijl en weet haar prachtige en mooie verhaal met sfeer en emotie op je over te brengen. De personages zijn prachtig uitgewerkt. Het verhaal bevat wel heftige thema's maar blijft ondanks alles een feelgood die vlot en lekker weg leest. Een echte aanrader!
February 18, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC
This just wasn't to me taste. I didn't really care for the story or the characters. I picked this up anticipating a romance and but it ended up being a relatively small part of the overall story.
This just wasn't to me taste. I didn't really care for the story or the characters. I picked this up anticipating a romance and but it ended up being a relatively small part of the overall story.
March 1, 2022
read this back in january and i literally dnf it after 28% in…idk if its me or the book…but i guess i read this book at the wrong time…will try give it a second chance? um idk maybe yes maybe no.
February 20, 2022
I have been a fan of Beth’s work for a while now. I love the way in which she writes such fun and feel good stories. I read the synopsis for ‘Just The Way You Are’ and it certainly sounded like it was going to be an amazing read. I was spot on too because it was an amazing read and I thoroughly enjoyed reading every single minute of it, but more about that in a bit.
I loved the character of Olivia (Ollie) Tennyson and I warmed to her from the very start. In fact it didn’t take long for me to feel as though she had become a friend of mine and I felt all protective of her. Ollie has a job that she loves, a few close friends but she doesn’t have much of a social life. Oh and an overbearing mother, who quite frankly could do with a slap across the face with a wet flip flop. I won’t go too far into detail as to what happens or how she behaves but needless to say that you will see what I mean as you read more of the story. Ollie makes the break and embarks on a new, if at times daunting, adventure. I was keeping everything crossed that Ollie got the happy ever after ending that she so deserved. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I was drawn into this story from the very start. As soon as I started to read, I knew that I was reading something special and that I would find it very difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. My Kindle travelled well whilst I was reading the book because my Kindle went everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the beautiful story. I had warmed to most of the characters and I had to keep reading to see if the story concluded in the way I suspected it would. I couldn’t turn the pages of the book quickly enough as I galloped through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘Just The Way You Are’ and I had to say goodbye to Ollie and the rest of the characters. I found ‘Just The Way You Are’ to be a joy to read from start to finish and I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it.
‘Just The Way You Are’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Beth Moran. Beth has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Beth’s books feels more like a chat between friends rather than reading a book. I hope that makes sense. The story hit the ground running and maintained a gentle pace throughout, which suited the tale that Beth is telling. Beth clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid way in which she describes them. She describes them so realistically that they seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Beth makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That’s how I felt anyway.
In short, I adored reading ‘Just The Way You Are’ and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Beth’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I loved the character of Olivia (Ollie) Tennyson and I warmed to her from the very start. In fact it didn’t take long for me to feel as though she had become a friend of mine and I felt all protective of her. Ollie has a job that she loves, a few close friends but she doesn’t have much of a social life. Oh and an overbearing mother, who quite frankly could do with a slap across the face with a wet flip flop. I won’t go too far into detail as to what happens or how she behaves but needless to say that you will see what I mean as you read more of the story. Ollie makes the break and embarks on a new, if at times daunting, adventure. I was keeping everything crossed that Ollie got the happy ever after ending that she so deserved. What happens? Well for the answer to that question and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I was drawn into this story from the very start. As soon as I started to read, I knew that I was reading something special and that I would find it very difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. My Kindle travelled well whilst I was reading the book because my Kindle went everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the beautiful story. I had warmed to most of the characters and I had to keep reading to see if the story concluded in the way I suspected it would. I couldn’t turn the pages of the book quickly enough as I galloped through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘Just The Way You Are’ and I had to say goodbye to Ollie and the rest of the characters. I found ‘Just The Way You Are’ to be a joy to read from start to finish and I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it.
‘Just The Way You Are’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Beth Moran. Beth has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Beth’s books feels more like a chat between friends rather than reading a book. I hope that makes sense. The story hit the ground running and maintained a gentle pace throughout, which suited the tale that Beth is telling. Beth clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid way in which she describes them. She describes them so realistically that they seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Beth makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action. That’s how I felt anyway.
In short, I adored reading ‘Just The Way You Are’ and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Beth’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
February 4, 2022
3.5 stars.
When she’s sixteen Ollie writes her Dream List; a list of things she’d like to achieve. Unfortunately, she’s not managed to fulfil any of them. We learn this is partly because of her mother’s reluctance to let her have her own life. However, now she’s 29 she determines to take things into her own hands.
Ollie - with a little help from one of her clients - arranges to move into her own house and start the process of working her way through the list.
Moving to a quiet village, Ollie finds herself - for the first time ever - in charge of her own life. We get to join her on her journey.
This is predictable in some ways, but it had such a feel-good vibe that it would be hard to find fault. There’s the inevitable (eventually) romance but there’s also strands focusing on friendship, loneliness, community spirit, illness and developing self-confidence. Emotional, yes, but uplifting too.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this in advance of publication.
When she’s sixteen Ollie writes her Dream List; a list of things she’d like to achieve. Unfortunately, she’s not managed to fulfil any of them. We learn this is partly because of her mother’s reluctance to let her have her own life. However, now she’s 29 she determines to take things into her own hands.
Ollie - with a little help from one of her clients - arranges to move into her own house and start the process of working her way through the list.
Moving to a quiet village, Ollie finds herself - for the first time ever - in charge of her own life. We get to join her on her journey.
This is predictable in some ways, but it had such a feel-good vibe that it would be hard to find fault. There’s the inevitable (eventually) romance but there’s also strands focusing on friendship, loneliness, community spirit, illness and developing self-confidence. Emotional, yes, but uplifting too.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this in advance of publication.
July 11, 2022
If you are looking for a romance, I'm not sure I'd recommend this as it's extremely slow-burn, there's not even a kiss until the last paragraph of the book. But if you're looking for a book about an almost 30-year-old who finally starts to live her life away from her domineering mother, I'd definitely recommend this lovely story.
Though Ollie was anxious to get away from her overbearing mother, she's the type of person who fixates on solving other people's problems, she can't stop being a caretaker. And there are a lot of problems that follow Ollie to her little rural cottage in the form of her new neighbors.
It's a mostly lighthearted tale with a lot of genuinely nice people. Even the ones that aren't eventually succumb to Ollie's charms too.
Though Ollie was anxious to get away from her overbearing mother, she's the type of person who fixates on solving other people's problems, she can't stop being a caretaker. And there are a lot of problems that follow Ollie to her little rural cottage in the form of her new neighbors.
It's a mostly lighthearted tale with a lot of genuinely nice people. Even the ones that aren't eventually succumb to Ollie's charms too.
February 8, 2022
This was a fun read! While it definitely has hallmarks of a romance novel, including like five meet-cutes, romance is definitely the side plot and there’s a very VERY long wait for even a kiss.
Our heroine was fantastic and I liked that right off then bat, we are seeing her put her foot down. Often we see the heroine be a doormat for a while until she decides to do something about it, but not so in this case. We have one scene with the mom and the line has been drawn.
The only downside I can think of is that there was A LOT of side plots. So many things are happening, especially in the beginning, that made it a bit complex. I would have rather had more romance. 😁
Our heroine was fantastic and I liked that right off then bat, we are seeing her put her foot down. Often we see the heroine be a doormat for a while until she decides to do something about it, but not so in this case. We have one scene with the mom and the line has been drawn.
The only downside I can think of is that there was A LOT of side plots. So many things are happening, especially in the beginning, that made it a bit complex. I would have rather had more romance. 😁
August 1, 2025
Overall, this was an enjoyable read worthy of a 3-star rating. I found the main character's coming into her own inspiring and the supporting characters were, for the most part, great. At times it seemed the author was consciously ticking all the "right" boxes which felt preachy and a bit too much like virtue signaling. Underlying agendas whether political or religious, whether I agree with the agenda or not, have no place, in my opinion, in a romance novel.
For readers who liked "The Authenticity Project" and "The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen", this is probably your cup of tea. Some of the subjects covered were a bit more serious and darker than I prefer but overall it was a good read.
No profanity or sex.
For readers who liked "The Authenticity Project" and "The Fall and Rise of Sadie McQueen", this is probably your cup of tea. Some of the subjects covered were a bit more serious and darker than I prefer but overall it was a good read.
No profanity or sex.
February 16, 2022
I love Beth Moran, and was very exited to get her latest book, which didn't disappoint at all!
I LOVED the fact that the romance is not the main theme of this book and there is so much more to it. It's a story about life with a lot of true characters and interesting topics. Poignant and funny at the same time, brilliantly written, absolutely recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I LOVED the fact that the romance is not the main theme of this book and there is so much more to it. It's a story about life with a lot of true characters and interesting topics. Poignant and funny at the same time, brilliantly written, absolutely recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2022
Full disclosure, I love this book. I went in with my regular expectations—good technique, engaging plot—and they got blown away by Moran’s storytelling.
[Keep reading @ Bookshelves & Teacups]
[Keep reading @ Bookshelves & Teacups]
September 3, 2022
Adorable. Couldn't put it down. This book was recommended by a friend that has laughed at my attempts to find good, lighthearted, romantic comedies and she was right. Such a good book! Definitely enjoyed this one!
August 11, 2022
Trash but I loved it! Ollie finally escapes her manipulative mother to build a life of her own and tries to focus on what she wants to do with it. A dream list written as a teenage inspired a serious of challenges that she works through before living happily ever after…. Wrapped up nicely in a bow and an easy read. Just what I needed!
June 15, 2022
Simple but uplifting book about a young lady looking for herself in life. Total fiction. I kept asking myself how she could afford buying a house with such a relaxed job.
February 14, 2022
I'm at a loss for words to describe how much I adore everything about this book. The book is simple to read, and Ollie's character is very relatable. You will definitely enjoy Ollie's character.
Ollie’s mother was very controlling, and Ollie desperately needed a breath of fresh air without her mother controlling her life. She made a dream list when she was sixteen, and now that she is 29, she is unable to date due to her manipulative mother; her goal right now is to complete her dream list before she is permitting herself to date. Along with fulfilling her dream list, she met a variety of people and clients, each with a unique story to tell.
Every time she met her client or the people around her, I felt as if I was meeting them as well. I'm looking forward to finding out what kind of person they are and what stories they have. And did I mention how much I adore Joan and Nesbit.
The plot was simple to grasp. It was fast-pace at the same time the romance was slow-burn. This book does not really focus on romance but instead with ollie’s independence.
Thank you Boldwood books and NetGalley for sharing this ARC in exchange with an honest review.
Ollie’s mother was very controlling, and Ollie desperately needed a breath of fresh air without her mother controlling her life. She made a dream list when she was sixteen, and now that she is 29, she is unable to date due to her manipulative mother; her goal right now is to complete her dream list before she is permitting herself to date. Along with fulfilling her dream list, she met a variety of people and clients, each with a unique story to tell.
Every time she met her client or the people around her, I felt as if I was meeting them as well. I'm looking forward to finding out what kind of person they are and what stories they have. And did I mention how much I adore Joan and Nesbit.
The plot was simple to grasp. It was fast-pace at the same time the romance was slow-burn. This book does not really focus on romance but instead with ollie’s independence.
Thank you Boldwood books and NetGalley for sharing this ARC in exchange with an honest review.
April 20, 2022
Beth Moran’s novels are humorous and quirky while also pulling on your heart strings. Loved this book from the setting with the quaint forest cottage and the intriguing ranger nearby and a woman learning to stand on her own two feet and all the humor and heartbreak that ensues. If you love quaint English villages, close knit communities, family secrets and romance you’ll love this book! A great read!
October 15, 2022
If I never read the words dream list again it'll be too soon.
February 19, 2022
This book really was an absolute delight – heart-warming and uplifting, with the most wonderful well-developed characters, and a story I engaged with from the very beginning. As Ollie’s thirtieth birthday approaches, she decides it’s time to break free – she’s been smothered and manipulated by her self-centred mother for far too long. She has a dream list of things she wants to accomplish, written when she was sixteen – she’d hoped to complete the list together with her dream man, but that hasn’t happened either. So she breaks the ties with her mother and moves to a cottage on the edge of Sherwood Forest – one that shares a garden with two others, close to the library where she delivers her adult literacy classes – and, supported by her closest friend Steph, sets about living her own life, completing her list, and discovering what her future might hold. And the idea of doing it all with a significant other? That’s firmly on the back burner for a while – a no-man mandate until her list has been completed.
She develops a very special friendship with 11-year-old Joan who lives in one of the other cottages with her struggling single mother, tries to get to know her reclusive next-door neighbour Ebenezer, unexpectedly acquires a dog (Nesbit – he’s quite a character!), finds a friend in Sam the forest ranger – and at the classes she teaches, crosses the path of a whole range of quirky and intriguing characters while managing her relationship with stiff and formal library lady Irene. And while getting increasingly involved in everyone else’s lives, her dream list isn’t forgotten – she slowly ticks off each item, knowing that when it’s completed she can be ready to start afresh, abandon her no-man mandate, and see whether anything might develop with the lovely Sam.
It might just all sound rather light and lovely, but this is a book that tackles quite a few serious issues, every one handled with exceptional sensitivity – Ollie’s journey is a particularly emotional one, and she had a firm hold on my heart from the moment she stood up to her mother and decided to follow her own path to happiness. And while this is very much Ollie’s story – of fresh starts and new beginnings, and of finding her courage and learning to love herself – one of the real strengths of this book is most definitely the wider characterisation with the whole cast just wonderfully drawn, the relationships between them, and every one of them very real with their own unfolding and very engaging stories. And along with the rich emotional content, there’s plenty of laughter – the humour gentle and perfectly judged, moments that can’t help but bring a smile to your face.
I really loved this one – it’s gloriously life-affirming, escapist but rooted in life’s realities, with far more depth than the cover might lead you to expect, filled with exceptional warmth, and quite beautifully written. Totally lovely – and very much recommended.
She develops a very special friendship with 11-year-old Joan who lives in one of the other cottages with her struggling single mother, tries to get to know her reclusive next-door neighbour Ebenezer, unexpectedly acquires a dog (Nesbit – he’s quite a character!), finds a friend in Sam the forest ranger – and at the classes she teaches, crosses the path of a whole range of quirky and intriguing characters while managing her relationship with stiff and formal library lady Irene. And while getting increasingly involved in everyone else’s lives, her dream list isn’t forgotten – she slowly ticks off each item, knowing that when it’s completed she can be ready to start afresh, abandon her no-man mandate, and see whether anything might develop with the lovely Sam.
It might just all sound rather light and lovely, but this is a book that tackles quite a few serious issues, every one handled with exceptional sensitivity – Ollie’s journey is a particularly emotional one, and she had a firm hold on my heart from the moment she stood up to her mother and decided to follow her own path to happiness. And while this is very much Ollie’s story – of fresh starts and new beginnings, and of finding her courage and learning to love herself – one of the real strengths of this book is most definitely the wider characterisation with the whole cast just wonderfully drawn, the relationships between them, and every one of them very real with their own unfolding and very engaging stories. And along with the rich emotional content, there’s plenty of laughter – the humour gentle and perfectly judged, moments that can’t help but bring a smile to your face.
I really loved this one – it’s gloriously life-affirming, escapist but rooted in life’s realities, with far more depth than the cover might lead you to expect, filled with exceptional warmth, and quite beautifully written. Totally lovely – and very much recommended.
July 4, 2022
I have mentioned before that there are certain relationship issues that do not appear as realistic as I would want them to in fiction. One primary one is women who are in a very fraught mother-daughter standoff of sorts. A couple of authors whose works I otherwise enjoy did not make me believe in the complexity of the toxicity. This is probably one of the times that it actually made sense.
Our leading lady has been the sole emotional support for her mother. The dependence does not become evident till she starts to build a life of her own. On the one hand, Ollie knows it's beyond time that she sets some boundaries, but her mother is very subtle in putting her foot in before the door shuts. This does not diminish Ollie's love for her mother (and vice versa).
With the help of a very good friend and an aunt with patience to spare, Ollie decides to move out and put some distance. She is trying to do all the things that she has always wanted to. She has a 'Dream List' that is crucial to the changes she is trying. Change is not easy, however, and every step into the unknown is hard. The neighbours, townsfolk and their eccentricities are quite enticing, and it kept me involved, and I almost read it in one sitting. I really enjoyed another book by the author, and it made me confident going into this one. I felt amply rewarded for that trust.
It borders on uplit, with very average characters who lead simple lives with minor setbacks that they learn to overcome (with help from people who care). Some of the stories of the supporting cast were more emotional than others, but overall I chuckled quite a few times while imagining some of the situations.
I would definitely recommend this book to people who like this genre.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers, but my review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and a previous work by the same author.
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