A review by booktalkwithkarla
The Overdue Life of Amy Byler by Kelly Harms

emotional reflective 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

4.25

This book has been on my kindle for awhile and this week when I couldn’t sleep I started reading. I didn’t remember the premise and didn’t read any flap copy and honestly I am so glad as I might have skipped it. Instead it was a perfect read for the moment. I won’t spoil it by talking about too many details. Discovery was the best!

I enjoyed the epistolary parts as they added to/balanced the story by showing what was happening back in PA while Amy was in NY. The humorous banter between mother and daughter and Amy and her friends added so much joy. I was surprised by the emotion I felt - judgment and anger in first half, then compassion and connection in the second half. 

Reading about Amy’s choices and experiences I was reminded of my own - not because we have situations in common but because of the relatable feelings of motherhood and marriage. Even though our external lives are diverse our internal lives share much in common. This is a great book for women whether single or married, many children or no children. It’s also a fast read and there is lots of book talk. Pick it up and live vicariously through Amy Byler.