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amys_hygge_reads's reviews
39 reviews
Rememberings by Sinéad O'Connor
dark
emotional
sad
medium-paced
4.25
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rememberings - Sinéad O’Connor
The Story 📚
The autobiography of Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor details the difficult journeys she faced throughout her childhood and young adult years. Navigating abuse, mental health, relationships, parenthood and a professional music career, Sinéad’s memoir is a raw account of her truth.
The Review 👩🏻💻
Listening to Sinéad telling her own story was really the only option to experience this book. It was obvious that it was written in two separate times, however I did still enjoy the last section. It is just sad that she will never get to write her second book.
Sinéad experienced so much pain over the course of her life. The abuse she received from her mother was so heartbreaking. As a social care worker, I found the chapters about her time in High Park very interesting. Of course, can’t not mention Dr Phil and Prince… Her wish to be a health care worker and work with the dying was so fitting.
A woman who would call out any any crap she sees in the world, we could all learn a thing or two from her. Sinéad’s music will definitely live on forever.
Rest in peace Sinéad
Rememberings - Sinéad O’Connor
The Story 📚
The autobiography of Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor details the difficult journeys she faced throughout her childhood and young adult years. Navigating abuse, mental health, relationships, parenthood and a professional music career, Sinéad’s memoir is a raw account of her truth.
The Review 👩🏻💻
Listening to Sinéad telling her own story was really the only option to experience this book. It was obvious that it was written in two separate times, however I did still enjoy the last section. It is just sad that she will never get to write her second book.
Sinéad experienced so much pain over the course of her life. The abuse she received from her mother was so heartbreaking. As a social care worker, I found the chapters about her time in High Park very interesting. Of course, can’t not mention Dr Phil and Prince… Her wish to be a health care worker and work with the dying was so fitting.
A woman who would call out any any crap she sees in the world, we could all learn a thing or two from her. Sinéad’s music will definitely live on forever.
Rest in peace Sinéad
My Hot Friend by Sophie White
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Hot Friend is Sophie White’s newest chic-lit book. In typical Sophie fashion, it’s both lighthearted and covers important topics.
The Story 📚
Lexi is the co-host to a popular podcast called Your Hot Friend, with her best friend. They’re also managed by Lexi’s boyfriend. Caught up in the the glam of it all, and creating content for instagram - how much is Lexi actually living, and how much of it is real?
Joanne works in a digital design start up with her bestie. But with a new baby on the way, her life is about to change more than she thinks, especially as she can’t go on nights out with the girls. But how much support will she have from her friends?
Claire works as a nanny, and has one of those friend WhatsApp groups. But Claire starts to question why she’s the main one keeping the group active. Is there a a side group without her, and why?
Three women in their early thirties leading completely separate lives. On their journey through friendship and self discovery, their paths eventually cross. But, what friendships are built to last?
The Review 👩🏻💻
There are so many books out there about finding love, the meaning of true love, and finding love in your thirties. But what about finding new love in the form of friendship as an adult? There’s not so much of that. And let’s face it, managing friendships and finding new friends as an adult is hard! I can definitely confirm from moving to a different country!
I found this book so refreshing, and so relatable - like I’ve heard others say on bookstagram. I picked this read as my holiday book on my recent trip to Croatia. The fun and the drama in the first portion really held my interest and sucked me in. And then in Sophie’s style, as the book progresses important themes emerge. Heavy topics are covered so beautifully and respectfully - but still make for a fun and easy read. Highly recommend this one! Sophie just keeps getting better.
My Hot Friend is the pick for @tiredmammybookclub July book, so I’m looking forward to joining in! The girls in @another.chapter.podcast recently interviewed Sophie as well, which was a lovely listen.
My Hot Friend is Sophie White’s newest chic-lit book. In typical Sophie fashion, it’s both lighthearted and covers important topics.
The Story 📚
Lexi is the co-host to a popular podcast called Your Hot Friend, with her best friend. They’re also managed by Lexi’s boyfriend. Caught up in the the glam of it all, and creating content for instagram - how much is Lexi actually living, and how much of it is real?
Joanne works in a digital design start up with her bestie. But with a new baby on the way, her life is about to change more than she thinks, especially as she can’t go on nights out with the girls. But how much support will she have from her friends?
Claire works as a nanny, and has one of those friend WhatsApp groups. But Claire starts to question why she’s the main one keeping the group active. Is there a a side group without her, and why?
Three women in their early thirties leading completely separate lives. On their journey through friendship and self discovery, their paths eventually cross. But, what friendships are built to last?
The Review 👩🏻💻
There are so many books out there about finding love, the meaning of true love, and finding love in your thirties. But what about finding new love in the form of friendship as an adult? There’s not so much of that. And let’s face it, managing friendships and finding new friends as an adult is hard! I can definitely confirm from moving to a different country!
I found this book so refreshing, and so relatable - like I’ve heard others say on bookstagram. I picked this read as my holiday book on my recent trip to Croatia. The fun and the drama in the first portion really held my interest and sucked me in. And then in Sophie’s style, as the book progresses important themes emerge. Heavy topics are covered so beautifully and respectfully - but still make for a fun and easy read. Highly recommend this one! Sophie just keeps getting better.
My Hot Friend is the pick for @tiredmammybookclub July book, so I’m looking forward to joining in! The girls in @another.chapter.podcast recently interviewed Sophie as well, which was a lovely listen.
Evidence of the Affair: A Short Story by Taylor Jenkins Reid
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Evidence of the Affair by Taylor Jenkins read is a short story from the popular author, and my second book by Taylor this month! It is included in Kindle Unlimited for anyone who may have the service.
The Story 📚
When Carrie discovers letters sent to her husband from another woman, she needs to find out more. But instead of confronting her husband, she begins writing letters to David, the husband of the woman Carrie’s husband is having an affair with. The pair begin their own correspondence, trying to make sense of what their partners are up to, while also getting to know one another. The story unfolds entirely through letter form, and examines the effects an affair can have.
The Review 👩🏻💻
I must say, I enjoyed the letter format! As a method for telling a short story, it easily became a quick page turner. A great story told in so few words, and with a unexpected twist at the end that really made me enjoy the book even more!
This is my second TJR book, and I will happily be reading more! If you’re looking for a short read, I recommend!
The Story 📚
When Carrie discovers letters sent to her husband from another woman, she needs to find out more. But instead of confronting her husband, she begins writing letters to David, the husband of the woman Carrie’s husband is having an affair with. The pair begin their own correspondence, trying to make sense of what their partners are up to, while also getting to know one another. The story unfolds entirely through letter form, and examines the effects an affair can have.
The Review 👩🏻💻
I must say, I enjoyed the letter format! As a method for telling a short story, it easily became a quick page turner. A great story told in so few words, and with a unexpected twist at the end that really made me enjoy the book even more!
This is my second TJR book, and I will happily be reading more! If you’re looking for a short read, I recommend!
Nothing Like a Dane by Keri Bloomfield
adventurous
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
Nothing Like A Dane by Keri Bloomfield
The Story 📚
After bumping into a random Danish man in a bar in her home country of New Zealand, Keri didn’t think that some time later she would find herself moving across the world with their little baby to set up a new life together in Denmark. The land of hygge, pastries and vikings - and of course a different language.
Keri’s uniquely witty personality shines through in her story of adapting to a new culture, and all the challenges that brings. From classroom settings, babies sleeping outside and a fair share of public nudity. Just how hard can it be for a Kiwi to fit in to the Danish life?
The Review 👩🏻💻
As an expat living in Denmark for 2 years, it’s safe to say that I related to so much of Keri’s experience! Particularly every single thing about language school!! Really enjoyed this aspect being covered. If you’re interested in Danish life, moving to or are currently living in Denmark as a foreigner - then I highly recommend. Keri includes so many extra side notes giving you lots of info and tips on Danish culture and life.
Obviously no two experiences of moving to a new country are the same, and I didn’t marry a Dane like Keri did! But I enjoyed that the setting was Copenhagen based, and that made the book a lot more relatable to me than other things I may have read.
I highly recommend giving the author a follow here on Instagram. @keri.bloomfield gives some lovely daily life insights into Denmark, and I have followed her account on my personal page since moving to Denmark.
🇩🇰
Tak for en dejlig bog Keri. Jeg nød virkelig at læse den! Bogen ville være interessant for danskere som et indblik i fremmede menneskers liv i Danmark.
The Story 📚
After bumping into a random Danish man in a bar in her home country of New Zealand, Keri didn’t think that some time later she would find herself moving across the world with their little baby to set up a new life together in Denmark. The land of hygge, pastries and vikings - and of course a different language.
Keri’s uniquely witty personality shines through in her story of adapting to a new culture, and all the challenges that brings. From classroom settings, babies sleeping outside and a fair share of public nudity. Just how hard can it be for a Kiwi to fit in to the Danish life?
The Review 👩🏻💻
As an expat living in Denmark for 2 years, it’s safe to say that I related to so much of Keri’s experience! Particularly every single thing about language school!! Really enjoyed this aspect being covered. If you’re interested in Danish life, moving to or are currently living in Denmark as a foreigner - then I highly recommend. Keri includes so many extra side notes giving you lots of info and tips on Danish culture and life.
Obviously no two experiences of moving to a new country are the same, and I didn’t marry a Dane like Keri did! But I enjoyed that the setting was Copenhagen based, and that made the book a lot more relatable to me than other things I may have read.
I highly recommend giving the author a follow here on Instagram. @keri.bloomfield gives some lovely daily life insights into Denmark, and I have followed her account on my personal page since moving to Denmark.
🇩🇰
Tak for en dejlig bog Keri. Jeg nød virkelig at læse den! Bogen ville være interessant for danskere som et indblik i fremmede menneskers liv i Danmark.
It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Okay, I finally dipped my toes in the sand of spicy romance and read It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey. But unfortunately it disappointed!
The Story 📚
Piper appears to lead a fabulous and lavish lifestyle. A well known influencer, and is frequently photographed by the paparazzi - but the party lifestyle and bad choices catches up to her after throwing a rooftop party.
Queue the stepfather deciding to stop giving Piper money, and sending her (and her sister?!) to go and discover their roots. Three months in a small fishing port town called Westport, they are given the job of running their dead father’s bar.
The small town life is miles from what she knows. A sense of community, physical labour, no social media - oh, and a fishing captain called Brendan who seems to be everywhere and too hard to resist. Just how much can change in 3 months?
The Review 👩🏻💻
Well apparently a main character can have a complete personality transplant in 3 months.. I’m all for character development, but Piper in the beginning, to even her in the middle just felt like a different character?
The side plots were terrible. Her mother, father and granny were all throw away characters with no development. There was more about the stepdad?! They were just forgotten for majority of the story.
For the spicy scenes and love story, a lot was very eye roll worthy or just over dramatic (like the ending!). The use of the phrase her s*x and a back entrance to front transition were major nos! But there was a lot to like about Brendan - and Piper 2.0. Minus the overly dramatic miscommunication which was thrown in at the end.
I listened on audio and the narration just didn’t suit. The voice for Brendan was possibly why I didn’t love him more. But it was a fun, lighthearted and easy listen.
On a final note - how does Abe get down the stairs of the museum, seen as she just leaves him there? 😂
The Story 📚
Piper appears to lead a fabulous and lavish lifestyle. A well known influencer, and is frequently photographed by the paparazzi - but the party lifestyle and bad choices catches up to her after throwing a rooftop party.
Queue the stepfather deciding to stop giving Piper money, and sending her (and her sister?!) to go and discover their roots. Three months in a small fishing port town called Westport, they are given the job of running their dead father’s bar.
The small town life is miles from what she knows. A sense of community, physical labour, no social media - oh, and a fishing captain called Brendan who seems to be everywhere and too hard to resist. Just how much can change in 3 months?
The Review 👩🏻💻
Well apparently a main character can have a complete personality transplant in 3 months.. I’m all for character development, but Piper in the beginning, to even her in the middle just felt like a different character?
The side plots were terrible. Her mother, father and granny were all throw away characters with no development. There was more about the stepdad?! They were just forgotten for majority of the story.
For the spicy scenes and love story, a lot was very eye roll worthy or just over dramatic (like the ending!). The use of the phrase her s*x and a back entrance to front transition were major nos! But there was a lot to like about Brendan - and Piper 2.0. Minus the overly dramatic miscommunication which was thrown in at the end.
I listened on audio and the narration just didn’t suit. The voice for Brendan was possibly why I didn’t love him more. But it was a fun, lighthearted and easy listen.
On a final note - how does Abe get down the stairs of the museum, seen as she just leaves him there? 😂
I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.5
Probably one of the last people to read I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy, so I’ll keep my review short!
The Story 📚
Jennette was just six years old when her mother took her to her first acting audition. Acting, fame and money became Jennette’s mom’s goal for her daughter. Through a complex and abusive relationship, Jennette had no choice but to act along, and do everything she could to make her mother happy. Known for fame on Nickelodeon’s children’s shows iCarly and Sam & Cat, Jennette reveals how the abuse she experienced existed not just at home, but on set as well.
Jennette tells her story honestly, with dark humour. After her mother dies, Jennette begins to reach out for help regarding her mental health and eating disorder. But a childhood of abuse leaves a lot to work through.
The Review 👩🏻💻
Honestly, I’m glad her mother died. The abuse and coercion Jennette experienced from such a young age is horrible. And also to know that I’m sure her story is not unique. There are so many other child actors, and children of influencers that can no doubt relate to at least aspects of Jennette’s story.
I listed along on audiobook, and I honestly think that is the perfect way to experience this book as it was read by Jennette herself. While the topics were very heavy, I found it very easy to listen to. With Jennette’s dark humour, there were plenty of laughs as well. Really recommend this book, especially if you’re struggling to pick up a book at the moment. This has definitely gotten me out of a reading rut.
The Story 📚
Jennette was just six years old when her mother took her to her first acting audition. Acting, fame and money became Jennette’s mom’s goal for her daughter. Through a complex and abusive relationship, Jennette had no choice but to act along, and do everything she could to make her mother happy. Known for fame on Nickelodeon’s children’s shows iCarly and Sam & Cat, Jennette reveals how the abuse she experienced existed not just at home, but on set as well.
Jennette tells her story honestly, with dark humour. After her mother dies, Jennette begins to reach out for help regarding her mental health and eating disorder. But a childhood of abuse leaves a lot to work through.
The Review 👩🏻💻
Honestly, I’m glad her mother died. The abuse and coercion Jennette experienced from such a young age is horrible. And also to know that I’m sure her story is not unique. There are so many other child actors, and children of influencers that can no doubt relate to at least aspects of Jennette’s story.
I listed along on audiobook, and I honestly think that is the perfect way to experience this book as it was read by Jennette herself. While the topics were very heavy, I found it very easy to listen to. With Jennette’s dark humour, there were plenty of laughs as well. Really recommend this book, especially if you’re struggling to pick up a book at the moment. This has definitely gotten me out of a reading rut.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Eating disorder, Fatphobia, Gaslighting, Addiction, Child abuse, Alcohol, Emotional abuse, Alcoholism, Body shaming, Grief, Mental illness, Sexual violence, Toxic relationship, and Death of parent
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
adventurous
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
Finally got around to reading my first Taylor Jenkins Reid novel. I was very happy to find the English edition of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo in my local library in Denmark!
The Story 📚
Possibly a story that needs no introduction! The book tells the biography of a fictional 1950s/60s actress, Evelyn Hugo. Evelyn is an icon of the glamorous era of Hollywood. Through her years, Evelyn was married to seven different men, something which the tabloids of the time loved to write stories on. But what is Evelyn’s truth? Did she love these men, and was Hollywood as glamorous as the world betrays?
The Review 👩🏻💻
I have been trying to think of what to say about this book all weekend - and in particular what rating! In the end I went with 4.75 (that extra .75 makes a difference - thanks StoryGraph!!).
I started this book on a recent holiday to Cyprus, and it really was a perfect holiday read. Honestly going into the book, I thought it sounded a bit boring and not my cup of tea. But I quickly became lost in the world that Taylor so colourfully and vividly created. I was quickly hooked, wanting to find out more. The newspaper articles were a really interesting addition, that really made you feel like you were in that time too. Also helpful for the date, to keep track with the timeline.
There was some brilliant characters throughout this story. At times we weren’t supposed to like Evelyn, but I found the character development brilliant. A special mention has to go to both Harry and Cecilia, loved their storylines. I do wish we seen a bit more of Connor though.
The ending is where the book looses the fifth star. While the twist was interesting, it fell a little short for me. Almost like it was mentioned and done with so quickly, after all the build up. I didn’t really care for it, and it’s not a part of the story that will stick with me.
That being said, I really enjoyed this read, quite unexpectedly. Would definitely read more of Taylor’s work. Any recommendations of which one to read next?
The Story 📚
Possibly a story that needs no introduction! The book tells the biography of a fictional 1950s/60s actress, Evelyn Hugo. Evelyn is an icon of the glamorous era of Hollywood. Through her years, Evelyn was married to seven different men, something which the tabloids of the time loved to write stories on. But what is Evelyn’s truth? Did she love these men, and was Hollywood as glamorous as the world betrays?
The Review 👩🏻💻
I have been trying to think of what to say about this book all weekend - and in particular what rating! In the end I went with 4.75 (that extra .75 makes a difference - thanks StoryGraph!!).
I started this book on a recent holiday to Cyprus, and it really was a perfect holiday read. Honestly going into the book, I thought it sounded a bit boring and not my cup of tea. But I quickly became lost in the world that Taylor so colourfully and vividly created. I was quickly hooked, wanting to find out more. The newspaper articles were a really interesting addition, that really made you feel like you were in that time too. Also helpful for the date, to keep track with the timeline.
There was some brilliant characters throughout this story. At times we weren’t supposed to like Evelyn, but I found the character development brilliant. A special mention has to go to both Harry and Cecilia, loved their storylines. I do wish we seen a bit more of Connor though.
The ending is where the book looses the fifth star. While the twist was interesting, it fell a little short for me. Almost like it was mentioned and done with so quickly, after all the build up. I didn’t really care for it, and it’s not a part of the story that will stick with me.
That being said, I really enjoyed this read, quite unexpectedly. Would definitely read more of Taylor’s work. Any recommendations of which one to read next?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Car accident, Lesbophobia, Domestic abuse, Homophobia, and Biphobia
Moderate: Cancer, Pregnancy, Alcoholism, and Sexism
The Matchmaker by Catherine Walsh
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
The Matchmaker by Catherine Walsh - published on 18th April!
The Story 📚
A small village may not be for everyone, but Ennisbawn is Katie’s whole world. She has grown up there, her favourite people live in Ennisbawn and she works in the local pub. But the development of a new golf course is threatening to tear apart the village.
Katie complains in her own unique way about the the construction - only to be met by the sexy site manager Callum. The tension continues between them, while Katie gets busy with her plan to raise support for the village, the return of The Ennisbawn Matchmaking Festival! But will it be enough to save the village, and with love in the air, will Katie find her match?
The Review 👩🏻💻
My second book by Catherine, and I enjoyed it just as much! There is something so normal and real about both the characters Walsh creates, particularly the dialogue! This is definitely influenced by the Irish setting, which makes me love it even more.
The relationship between Callum and Katie was perfect! My only point is it felt like they got together very quick, but I think the book would have been long if we had more details. The sex scenes and tension were perfect for this story. I think we all want someone to idolise us in the way that Callum does!
Two main points I want to mention are consent and chosen family. Even in a light hearted romantic comedy, Walsh subtly brings up important themes - she made consent so easy and sexy! Family also means something different to everyone, and often isn’t the conventional, nuclear family. The sub characters were all brilliant additions, and really showed what family means in Ennisbawn.
If I could describe Walsh’s writing, I’d say it’s the Irish book form of a Hallmark movie! I mean that as a compliment! They’re fun, full of romance and a bit of steam, and they genuinely make you feel all the good feels!
Thank you to @catwalshwriter @bookouture and @netgalley for giving me access to the ARC.
The Story 📚
A small village may not be for everyone, but Ennisbawn is Katie’s whole world. She has grown up there, her favourite people live in Ennisbawn and she works in the local pub. But the development of a new golf course is threatening to tear apart the village.
Katie complains in her own unique way about the the construction - only to be met by the sexy site manager Callum. The tension continues between them, while Katie gets busy with her plan to raise support for the village, the return of The Ennisbawn Matchmaking Festival! But will it be enough to save the village, and with love in the air, will Katie find her match?
The Review 👩🏻💻
My second book by Catherine, and I enjoyed it just as much! There is something so normal and real about both the characters Walsh creates, particularly the dialogue! This is definitely influenced by the Irish setting, which makes me love it even more.
The relationship between Callum and Katie was perfect! My only point is it felt like they got together very quick, but I think the book would have been long if we had more details. The sex scenes and tension were perfect for this story. I think we all want someone to idolise us in the way that Callum does!
Two main points I want to mention are consent and chosen family. Even in a light hearted romantic comedy, Walsh subtly brings up important themes - she made consent so easy and sexy! Family also means something different to everyone, and often isn’t the conventional, nuclear family. The sub characters were all brilliant additions, and really showed what family means in Ennisbawn.
If I could describe Walsh’s writing, I’d say it’s the Irish book form of a Hallmark movie! I mean that as a compliment! They’re fun, full of romance and a bit of steam, and they genuinely make you feel all the good feels!
Thank you to @catwalshwriter @bookouture and @netgalley for giving me access to the ARC.
Content Warnings
Minor: Death of parent
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Fredrik Backman is an author I have wanted to read for a while now. And with the recent movie adaptation, I decided A Man Called Ove would be my first Backman book to read.
The Story 📚
This story is heavily character driven around the protagonist - a man called Ove. Ove is described as a grumpy old man, but really he is just a stubborn man set in his ways, who appreciates routine, Saab cars, and getting on with life. We find out more about Ove’s past and present in a split timeline, to discover the ways his world has changed over the years, as well as the special love story between him and Sonja. But with the arrival of new neighbours and a stray cat in his housing estate, Ove’s world takes new directions he didn’t think were possible at that time of his life.
The Review 👩🏻💻
I adored this book! Honestly, we all know someone like Ove! For me, that made the character so much more relatable and imaginable. Also, as the story is set in a Swedish town, I really enjoyed the Scandinavian references that brought to the environment to life for me.
In so many ways the book is so beautifully simple. It’s not overly complicated, and is an easy read for anyone. Ove’s character doesn’t need that! It is the kind of book I would happily recommend to anyone. I am even trying to convince my boyfriend to read it - he doesn’t read but I know he’d love the character and Ove’s mannerisms just as much as I did.
I cried so much at the end of this book. It really is going to stick with me. I’m really looking forward to seeing the two film adaptations, the older Swedish language version, and the newer American made one starring Tom Hanks. Honestly, I’m skeptical of the American one. Is Tom the right fit for Ove, and how will the perfect Swedish setting translate to America? Will let you know my thoughts after I have watched them both!
The Story 📚
This story is heavily character driven around the protagonist - a man called Ove. Ove is described as a grumpy old man, but really he is just a stubborn man set in his ways, who appreciates routine, Saab cars, and getting on with life. We find out more about Ove’s past and present in a split timeline, to discover the ways his world has changed over the years, as well as the special love story between him and Sonja. But with the arrival of new neighbours and a stray cat in his housing estate, Ove’s world takes new directions he didn’t think were possible at that time of his life.
The Review 👩🏻💻
I adored this book! Honestly, we all know someone like Ove! For me, that made the character so much more relatable and imaginable. Also, as the story is set in a Swedish town, I really enjoyed the Scandinavian references that brought to the environment to life for me.
In so many ways the book is so beautifully simple. It’s not overly complicated, and is an easy read for anyone. Ove’s character doesn’t need that! It is the kind of book I would happily recommend to anyone. I am even trying to convince my boyfriend to read it - he doesn’t read but I know he’d love the character and Ove’s mannerisms just as much as I did.
I cried so much at the end of this book. It really is going to stick with me. I’m really looking forward to seeing the two film adaptations, the older Swedish language version, and the newer American made one starring Tom Hanks. Honestly, I’m skeptical of the American one. Is Tom the right fit for Ove, and how will the perfect Swedish setting translate to America? Will let you know my thoughts after I have watched them both!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Miscarriage, Suicidal thoughts, Car accident, Suicide, Suicide attempt, Dementia, Death of parent, Death, and Child death
Know My Name by Chanel Miller
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
slow-paced
4.0
Know My Name by Chanel Miller was @tiredmammybookclub February book.
The Story 📚
Known initially to the world as Emily Doe - a victim of violence by the hands of Brock Turner on the Stanford college campus. The book is Chanel’s opportunity to tell the world what happened to her. The details of her assault, the process of the the trial, the sentencing - the full extent of ongoing trauma as a result of one night of violence by a man who never showered remorse, and only served three months in prison for his crimes. A white guy given an extremely lenient sentence because he was a good swimmer and had people to speak on his behalf. But a woman, who experienced victim blaming, attacks on her character as well as attempts to question and silence her truth.
The Review 👩🏻💻
This book is very important. Chanel is clearly a skilled writer. Her victim impact statement in particular had me in tears. The system is supposed to be there to protect, to get justice. But that couldn’t be further from the truth for so many, especially women. And unfortunately this is something that I’ve experienced through a loved one’s experience in the Irish court system. Many people just see the night of the assault itself. But Chanel details so well every single aspect of her life that was impacted or effectively placed on hold for the years following.
I find it strange at times to give a star rating to non-fiction, especially a book like this. This is Chanel’s voice, and she is entitled to write as much as she wants. I just found at times it was longer than it might have needed to be. I listened at 1.7 to 2 speed for most, and may not have finished it if it wasn’t a book club pick. But if you’re struggling to finish, the victim impact statement is at the very end, and it’s a must read - for everyone.
The Story 📚
Known initially to the world as Emily Doe - a victim of violence by the hands of Brock Turner on the Stanford college campus. The book is Chanel’s opportunity to tell the world what happened to her. The details of her assault, the process of the the trial, the sentencing - the full extent of ongoing trauma as a result of one night of violence by a man who never showered remorse, and only served three months in prison for his crimes. A white guy given an extremely lenient sentence because he was a good swimmer and had people to speak on his behalf. But a woman, who experienced victim blaming, attacks on her character as well as attempts to question and silence her truth.
The Review 👩🏻💻
This book is very important. Chanel is clearly a skilled writer. Her victim impact statement in particular had me in tears. The system is supposed to be there to protect, to get justice. But that couldn’t be further from the truth for so many, especially women. And unfortunately this is something that I’ve experienced through a loved one’s experience in the Irish court system. Many people just see the night of the assault itself. But Chanel details so well every single aspect of her life that was impacted or effectively placed on hold for the years following.
I find it strange at times to give a star rating to non-fiction, especially a book like this. This is Chanel’s voice, and she is entitled to write as much as she wants. I just found at times it was longer than it might have needed to be. I listened at 1.7 to 2 speed for most, and may not have finished it if it wasn’t a book club pick. But if you’re struggling to finish, the victim impact statement is at the very end, and it’s a must read - for everyone.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual harassment, Sexual violence, Injury/Injury detail, Physical abuse, Rape, and Sexual assault