A review by asourceoffiction
The Switch by Beth O'Leary

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This was such a delightful, cheerful book. The characters are completely wonderful and I loved hearing the story through Eileen and Leena's individual voices. It doesn't shy away from the subject of grief as the family has experienced a huge loss, but as the book progresses that loss becomes more a part of them than something that holds them back, and it's a really beautiful development to see. 

It's also laugh-out-loud funny in a lot of places. The humour is present even in some of the most emotional moments thanks to the story itself; from Eileen's forays into online dating, to Leena's attempts to grapple with unruly puppies, spring fêtes and neighbourhood watch meetings. I was just captivated by the whole thing!

By the end it felt as if some of the new relationships were a little convenient to the narrative where perhaps they weren't necessary for all of the characters, but I did still find myself rooting for everyone. The end is beautifully touching and had me all emotional, while still feeling delightfully warm and fuzzy.

Didn't have my heart to quite the same extent as The Flat Share, but it came pretty close!
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