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canadianbookworm's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
https://cdnbookworm.blogspot.com/2024/04/the-half-of-it.html
alinepetrin's review against another edition
emotional
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
kaboom2016's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This was a truly lovely book with some unexpected deep-cutting events and emotional truths. A really fantastic love story of second chances.
judithdcollins's review against another edition
4.0
Juliette Fay's latest, THE HALF OF IT, is a delightful and charming story of family, loss, love, relationships, marriages, friendship, forgiveness, regrets, and second chances.
One perfect night.
Forty years of buried hurt.
One chance to make it right.
Helen Spencer is 58 years old. When she looks back, she sees mistakes and regrets. Where did her life go?
There was a night she thinks of long ago. Her senior year of high school and a boy named Cal.
What if you could have a do-over or a second chance?
Forty years later, Cal turns up after a marriage, three children, and a grandchild. Does Helen want to relive the past and what she has tried so hard to put away?
But Cal does not know "the half of it."
We see all sides, from past to present, and the pandemic.
What a fun story full of love, wisdom, and wise lessons. A perfect summer read with romance, friendship, unexpected miracles, and hope.
I do not read a lot of women's fiction, as more of a thriller, historical, or literary fiction reader; however, this cover was so striking it DREW me in. YES, covers matter. My first book by the author, and I look forward to reading more.
I enjoyed this heartfelt, second-chance romance story, proving it is never too late for love.
For fans of authors Rochelle Weinstein, Colleen Oakley, Elizabeth Berg, and Allison Winn Scotch
I read the e-book and ordered the audiobook, narrated by Jane Oppenheimer, which always delivers an outstanding performance.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: April 11, 2023
My Rating: 4 Stars
April 2023 Must-Read Books
One perfect night.
Forty years of buried hurt.
One chance to make it right.
Helen Spencer is 58 years old. When she looks back, she sees mistakes and regrets. Where did her life go?
There was a night she thinks of long ago. Her senior year of high school and a boy named Cal.
What if you could have a do-over or a second chance?
Forty years later, Cal turns up after a marriage, three children, and a grandchild. Does Helen want to relive the past and what she has tried so hard to put away?
But Cal does not know "the half of it."
We see all sides, from past to present, and the pandemic.
What a fun story full of love, wisdom, and wise lessons. A perfect summer read with romance, friendship, unexpected miracles, and hope.
I do not read a lot of women's fiction, as more of a thriller, historical, or literary fiction reader; however, this cover was so striking it DREW me in. YES, covers matter. My first book by the author, and I look forward to reading more.
I enjoyed this heartfelt, second-chance romance story, proving it is never too late for love.
For fans of authors Rochelle Weinstein, Colleen Oakley, Elizabeth Berg, and Allison Winn Scotch
I read the e-book and ordered the audiobook, narrated by Jane Oppenheimer, which always delivers an outstanding performance.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: April 11, 2023
My Rating: 4 Stars
April 2023 Must-Read Books
dianaandthebookhunt's review against another edition
5.0
4.5*
It is such a treat to find a book with MC's in their 50's. There should be more books with a romantic plot that focus on a love story with that demographic. This second chance story is one that had me wanting to know both the life stories of both characters in both the past and present story lines. It also made me relate to their life stories. I really enjoyed this book and it had me tearing up at the loss Helen had endured and was working through.
It is such a treat to find a book with MC's in their 50's. There should be more books with a romantic plot that focus on a love story with that demographic. This second chance story is one that had me wanting to know both the life stories of both characters in both the past and present story lines. It also made me relate to their life stories. I really enjoyed this book and it had me tearing up at the loss Helen had endured and was working through.
meghan_readsbooks's review against another edition
4.0
Thank you to Willlam Morrow, and getredpr, for a review copy of The Half of It by Juliette Fay. What a charming second chance story that is a win for me, I love books that are set in later adulthood/midlife and that honor that feeling of wanting more/having hopes at all ages. Love and friendship and heartwarming connections to themes on romance and second chances.
The characters and family relationships read as very relatable to me and I found the pacing and character development to be engaging and delightfully charming (and escapist).
This is a perfect read for a rainy Sunday afternoon, for an afternoon by the water or in a hammock, and a great choice for bookclubs looking for a charming second chance story.
The characters and family relationships read as very relatable to me and I found the pacing and character development to be engaging and delightfully charming (and escapist).
This is a perfect read for a rainy Sunday afternoon, for an afternoon by the water or in a hammock, and a great choice for bookclubs looking for a charming second chance story.
lifeasmrsbaker's review against another edition
4.0
The Half of It by Juliette Fay is a captivating and emotionally resonant novel that explores the power of friendship, love, and the complexities of family dynamics. Fay's evocative writing style and well-drawn characters make for a compelling and thought-provoking reading experience. The book follows the story of Kate, a woman who discovers shocking family secrets that lead her on a journey of self-discovery and understanding.
One of the strengths of The Half of It is Fay's ability to delve into the depths of human emotions and relationships. The complexities of family dynamics and the bonds of friendship are beautifully portrayed, highlighting the intricate web of connections that shape our lives. Through Kate's journey, the author explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring power of love.
The characters in the novel are multi-dimensional and relatable, each grappling with their own struggles and secrets. Fay's skillful characterization allows readers to connect with the characters on an emotional level, making their journey all the more compelling. The friendships that develop and the personal growth that occurs throughout the story add depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Fay's writing is poignant and immersive, with a perfect balance between introspection and plot development. The pacing is well-paced, allowing for moments of reflection and emotional resonance, as well as captivating twists and turns that keep readers engaged.
In conclusion, The Half of It is a compelling and emotionally resonant novel that will leave readers contemplating the power of love, friendship, and family. Juliette Fay's evocative storytelling and well-drawn characters make this book a captivating choice for those seeking a thought-provoking and immersive read. If you're looking for a story that explores the complexities of relationships and the enduring strength of the human spirit, The Half of It is a remarkable choice.
One of the strengths of The Half of It is Fay's ability to delve into the depths of human emotions and relationships. The complexities of family dynamics and the bonds of friendship are beautifully portrayed, highlighting the intricate web of connections that shape our lives. Through Kate's journey, the author explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring power of love.
The characters in the novel are multi-dimensional and relatable, each grappling with their own struggles and secrets. Fay's skillful characterization allows readers to connect with the characters on an emotional level, making their journey all the more compelling. The friendships that develop and the personal growth that occurs throughout the story add depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Fay's writing is poignant and immersive, with a perfect balance between introspection and plot development. The pacing is well-paced, allowing for moments of reflection and emotional resonance, as well as captivating twists and turns that keep readers engaged.
In conclusion, The Half of It is a compelling and emotionally resonant novel that will leave readers contemplating the power of love, friendship, and family. Juliette Fay's evocative storytelling and well-drawn characters make this book a captivating choice for those seeking a thought-provoking and immersive read. If you're looking for a story that explores the complexities of relationships and the enduring strength of the human spirit, The Half of It is a remarkable choice.
thebookscript's review against another edition
2.0
I didn't have any expectations going into this one. I knew this was second chance with a large time gap. Let's get to it....because while this book didn't end up being for me, there were some things I enjoyed about it.
I really liked the build up of the relationship in the past timeline. I'm a sucker for that friends to lovers energy...these were two nerdy kids finding connection and friendship on the track team and I really loved their dialogue together. It's the reason I kept going and wanted to see what would happen. I also enjoyed having an older characters get a second chance romance and seeing their meet cute.
What didn't work for me: I just don't love books that center a timeline around Covid. I was there, I lived it, but I personally don't want to read about it and its mentioned a lot within the book. Secondly which is the biggest no for me was there there was SO much infidelity. Physical, emotional, and on multiple occasions and almost in every plot line/relationship. It felt a lot and then there were a couple other elements that felt like...why? Why was this necessary to add into an already dramatic story. So all in all this wasn't for me but i've seen some very positive reviews for this one so take my review with a grain of salt and personal preference.
I really liked the build up of the relationship in the past timeline. I'm a sucker for that friends to lovers energy...these were two nerdy kids finding connection and friendship on the track team and I really loved their dialogue together. It's the reason I kept going and wanted to see what would happen. I also enjoyed having an older characters get a second chance romance and seeing their meet cute.
What didn't work for me: I just don't love books that center a timeline around Covid. I was there, I lived it, but I personally don't want to read about it and its mentioned a lot within the book. Secondly which is the biggest no for me was there there was SO much infidelity. Physical, emotional, and on multiple occasions and almost in every plot line/relationship. It felt a lot and then there were a couple other elements that felt like...why? Why was this necessary to add into an already dramatic story. So all in all this wasn't for me but i've seen some very positive reviews for this one so take my review with a grain of salt and personal preference.
emilyisoverbooked's review against another edition
2.0
Thanks to William Morrow for the copy of this book.
Helen and Cal became friends while running in high school, and quickly developed feelings that culminated in one night together that changed the course of their lives and caused them to part ways. Years later when they’re nearing 60, they unexpectedly run into each other while watching their grandkids.
I loved the first 25% of this book with its unique storyline going back and forth from a YA high school story to older adults experiencing the pandemic, going through life changes, and reuniting. After that, though, I discovered I’m not sure I’m the demographic for this read. I found the premise of their one night together in high school a bit over-the-top, especially since they were hung up on it for so many years. After they reunite, I was also frustrated by the marriage situation and advice Cal’s therapist gave him knowing the root of his deep shame - it was just bad advice. In the end, I was disappointed where this book ended up.
Helen and Cal became friends while running in high school, and quickly developed feelings that culminated in one night together that changed the course of their lives and caused them to part ways. Years later when they’re nearing 60, they unexpectedly run into each other while watching their grandkids.
I loved the first 25% of this book with its unique storyline going back and forth from a YA high school story to older adults experiencing the pandemic, going through life changes, and reuniting. After that, though, I discovered I’m not sure I’m the demographic for this read. I found the premise of their one night together in high school a bit over-the-top, especially since they were hung up on it for so many years. After they reunite, I was also frustrated by the marriage situation and advice Cal’s therapist gave him knowing the root of his deep shame - it was just bad advice. In the end, I was disappointed where this book ended up.
notinjersey's review against another edition
4.0
I feel like every romance lately has been second chance but this one was unique in that the second chance occurs 40 years after the relationship began! Helen and Cal were friends in high school and fell in love, but when things didn’t work out, they each made decisions that led them to today, when together with their respective grandchildren, they run into each other again. The story is told in both the past timeline detailing their original relationship and in the present – 2021 with real life events included – namely Covid, masks, business struggles, and vaccines. I appreciated the addition of the real world that we all experienced. I loved how the author makes you feel like you really know the characters. I also liked the older characters – even older than I am!