I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of this incredible book from the publisher before it became a Read With Jenna Book Club pick.
Casey Peabody is a 31 year old nomad. She has lived and loved and traveled. Now back in Massachusetts working as a waitress in an upscale restaurant, still in mourning since her mother’s untimely death abroad, having just broken up with another boyfriend and not understanding why, debt collectors chasing her about her student loans, and still trying to finish a novel she has been writing forever, she realizes it may be time to grow up.
Living in the decrepit room of a friend of her brother’s yard, with a father she knows she has disappointed her whole life, and who has some seedy baggage himself, and a brother who lives states away, Casey begins to experience physical anxiety about her situation.
Then her life becomes complicated. She meets and falls for two men. Both writers, one famous and older, and one young, but with a steady job. But both soon become the inspiration along with her late mother’s constant guidance to renew her pursuit to finish her book.
With this new motivation also comes a need to reflect on her past life, both family and social and her need to please everyone but herself. How her lack of confidence in herself came from people she once adored, but she can now see were not healthy for her. Casey needs to become an adult and figure out her life without her mother’s loving presence.
The story is thoughtful, serious, yet funny. The writing is smooth and flows. The ending inspiring. All want-to be-writers should put this exceptional novel on their To Be Read list!
Thank you to #NetGalley #GrovePress #LilyKing #Writers&Lovers for the advanced copy.
Lisa's Cubby 