Heartwarming, honest, real and beautiful. I can think of so many lovely words to describe not only this story but Beth Morrey’s writing however these four stand out most of all.
Yes this is a love story but not in the traditional sense. Whilst we learn about Missy and Leo’s love over a sixty year span the love story that develops is of a different variety, which I found quite refreshing. The last chapters were particularly emotional but in an amazing way.
There were so many loveable characters in this book but a few stood out more than others. Sylvie was the fairy god mother. Anytime time there was a dilemma or someone in need there she was with her magic wand to save the day. I felt that she was the anchor to Missy’s happiness and I think everyone could do with a friend like that. I also loved Angela and her candid ways. You could always rely on her to call a spade a spade but there were some softer moments to her personality which made her more likeable.
By far my favourite character was Bobby! She was always there when Missy needed her and brought the softer side out. During the final chapters I was holding back the tears (and failing miserably) at the bond they both shared.
I have often said that people should make more time for the older generation, they have endless stories about their life. Some stories are more interesting than others and some you have probably heard a million times but these stories shaped that person and in the case of family they can sometimes shape you. I remember listening to my nan talk about her life during the war and it was fascinating, what I would give to listen to one more story.
The same can be said for community. Missy’s life changed the minute she opened up to strangers and put herself out there. By getting involved she made friends, became happier and evolved as a person. I’m a firm believe that you only get out of life what you put into it, sitting at home is going to get you no where.
I am so pleased that I was contacted to read this book and whilst I have an ARC version already I feel that this is a book that needs to sit proudly on my bookcase so I shall be purchasing a physical copy too. Beth Morrey has won me over with her writing, her story and this is a great debut novel. Thank you Beth, you’ve opened up the writing beast within me and inspired me to take a look at my nan’s unfinished book.
Yes this is a love story but not in the traditional sense. Whilst we learn about Missy and Leo’s love over a sixty year span the love story that develops is of a different variety, which I found quite refreshing. The last chapters were particularly emotional but in an amazing way.
There were so many loveable characters in this book but a few stood out more than others. Sylvie was the fairy god mother. Anytime time there was a dilemma or someone in need there she was with her magic wand to save the day. I felt that she was the anchor to Missy’s happiness and I think everyone could do with a friend like that. I also loved Angela and her candid ways. You could always rely on her to call a spade a spade but there were some softer moments to her personality which made her more likeable.
By far my favourite character was Bobby! She was always there when Missy needed her and brought the softer side out. During the final chapters I was holding back the tears (and failing miserably) at the bond they both shared.
I have often said that people should make more time for the older generation, they have endless stories about their life. Some stories are more interesting than others and some you have probably heard a million times but these stories shaped that person and in the case of family they can sometimes shape you. I remember listening to my nan talk about her life during the war and it was fascinating, what I would give to listen to one more story.
The same can be said for community. Missy’s life changed the minute she opened up to strangers and put herself out there. By getting involved she made friends, became happier and evolved as a person. I’m a firm believe that you only get out of life what you put into it, sitting at home is going to get you no where.
I am so pleased that I was contacted to read this book and whilst I have an ARC version already I feel that this is a book that needs to sit proudly on my bookcase so I shall be purchasing a physical copy too. Beth Morrey has won me over with her writing, her story and this is a great debut novel. Thank you Beth, you’ve opened up the writing beast within me and inspired me to take a look at my nan’s unfinished book.