Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez – A Book Review

There are certain authors that I read that the moment I finish their latest book I’m on the countdown for their next. For avid readers, you will know what I mean. We often refer to them as “auto-buy” authors. Therefore, when I learned that Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez was publishing, I knew I had to read it. This book is the author’s third in The Friend Zone series but can absolutely be read as a stand-alone.

Plot Summary

Vanessa is a woman approaching her thirtieth birthday. She has always lived each day as though it was her last – not surprising given the fact that she has lost her mother, sister and aunt to Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) before they reached the age of 30 and she has a 50% chance of having the gene for the disease. Vanessa has travelled extensively and documented her life’s story along the way on YouTube. She has amassed a large following and this has provided enough revenue to keep her financially well-off. All that travel has suddenly come to a screeching halt when her half-sister left Vanessa to care for her baby girl.

Adrian, the gorgeous lawyer next door, becomes her greatest support in Vanessa’s challenge on suddenly having to cope with her new housebound lifestyle. Indeed, Vanessa questions her decision not to get romantically involved with someone she’s likely going to have to leave behind. Conflict, she comes to realize that life is too short and having a romantic relationship fits into her philosophy of living life to its fullest. Will Adrian be able to fully understand her situation?

Book Review

I really enjoyed this book, which is told in a dual narrative . The characters are so well developed and likeable that I couldn’t wait to read more. I really enjoy contemporary romance, and Life’s Too Short really has a joyful, meaningful storyline. I really think the timing of this book’s release is excellent – we are all feeling completely maxed out with the social isolation and limitations of maintaining COVID-19 precautions and focusing on what we are not able to do. This book shifts that mindset – it makes the reader look at all you have and to remember to live each day to the fullest.

Audiobook Review

I listened to the audiobook version of Life’s Too Short which was narrated by Christine Lakin and Zachary Webber who gave excellent performances. I really appreciate when narrators have voices that are enthusiastic and expressive and these two have this in spades. The audiobook version of the book is great choice for those that enjoy this format.

What I Liked About Life’s Too Short:

• The character development
• The joyful, meaningful storyline
• The discussion of the impact of terminal disease on family

I Recommend Life’s Too Short to:

Those readers that enjoy contemporary romance.