Exploring Friendship and Renewal in “The Best Life Book Club” by Sheila Roberts: Book Review #harlequinaudio

In “The Best Life Book Club”, Sheila Roberts presents a touching story of new starts, budding romances, and the strength found in female friendships.

From The Publisher:

It started as a book club. It became a way to build a better life together.

Karissa Newcomb is ready for a new start in a new neighborhood, as far away as she can get from Seattle, where her husband cheated on her with the neighbor who was supposed to be her best friend. She and her nine-year-old daughter are moving on to the city of Gig Harbor on the bay in Puget Sound. She even has a new job as an assistant at a small publishing company right in Gig Harbor. Her new boss seems like a bit of a curmudgeon, but a job is a job, she loves to read, and the idea of possibly meeting writers sounds fabulous.

Soon she finds she’s not the only one in need of a refresh. Her new neighbors, Alice and Margot, are dealing with their own crises. Alice is still grieving her late husband and hasn’t been able to get behind the wheel of a car since a close call after his death. Margot is floundering after getting divorced and laid off in quick succession. They could all use a distraction, and a book club seems like just the ticket. Together, the three women, along with Alice’s grumpy older sister, Josie, embark on a literary journey that just might be the kick start they need to begin building their best lives yet.

My Thoughts:

“The Best Life Book Club” by Sheila Roberts offers a heartwarming tale of four women who, through the formation of a book club, embark on a journey of self-discovery and friendship. Set in the picturesque city of Gig Harbor, the story follows Karissa Newcomb and her nine-year-old daughter as they seek a fresh start far from the painful memories of Seattle. Betrayed by her husband and her supposed best friend, Karissa’s new job at a small publishing company becomes a beacon of hope, despite her irritable boss and the challenges of new clients.

What I found most compelling about this book is the way it captures the essence of rebuilding one’s life after adversity. Karissa’s story, in particular, resonated with me deeply. Her determination to provide a better life for her daughter while navigating the publishing world felt authentic and inspiring. The new friendships she forms with her neighbors Alice and Margot, each battling their own personal crises, highlight the power of community and support in overcoming life’s hurdles.

The book’s narrative is enriched by multiple romantic subplots, which add layers of complexity and intrigue. I especially enjoyed the dynamic between two initially sulky characters whose evolving relationship brought both humour and depth to the story. Roberts skillfully balances these romances with the main plot, ensuring they enhance rather than overshadow the women’s journeys.

However, I did find certain aspects of the book lacking. Despite the engaging storyline and the relatable struggles of the characters, I often felt disconnected due to the limited backstories provided. The characters’ histories and motivations could have been explored more deeply to create a stronger emotional bond with the reader. Additionally, the setting of Gig Harbor, with its potential for rich, atmospheric descriptions, felt underutilized. The book could have been set anywhere, missing an opportunity to fully immerse readers in the charm of this beautiful location.

The Narration:

Listening to the audiobook version, narrated by Ann Marie Gideon, was a delightful experience. Gideon’s performance brought the characters to life with distinct voices and excellent comedic timing, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the story.

Final Thoughts:

Overall, “The Best Life Book Club” is a feel-good read that emphasizes the importance of friendship and resilience. While it has its shortcomings in character development and setting description, the novel’s heartwarming message and engaging plot make it a worthwhile read. If you’re looking for a story about starting over and the healing power of a supportive community, this book is a great choice.