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Toronto #5
A Life That Fits
Twenty-eight-year-old Andrea returns home from a business trip to find Alex, her boyfriend of fourteen years, nervously waiting for her. Assuming he's finally going to propose, Andrea's instead horrified to learn he's been cheating on her and is leaving to be with the other woman, who he calls Andrea's opposite.
At first Andrea's paralyzed by shock and sadness, but the business analyst soon forms a plan: change every last detail of her life and become her opposite so Alex will come back to her.
It's a challenge at first, but soon Andrea's loving the changes she's making, the new activities she's doing, and the new people in her life. But will she change enough to get Alex back? And if she does, will he fit into the wonderful new life she's creating for herself?
At first Andrea's paralyzed by shock and sadness, but the business analyst soon forms a plan: change every last detail of her life and become her opposite so Alex will come back to her.
It's a challenge at first, but soon Andrea's loving the changes she's making, the new activities she's doing, and the new people in her life. But will she change enough to get Alex back? And if she does, will he fit into the wonderful new life she's creating for herself?
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2011
16 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
About the author
Heather Wardell
30 books286 followersI am a natural 1200 wpm speed reader and the author of twenty-three self-published novels including the free ebook "Life, Love, and a Polar Bear Tattoo" which has had over 400,000 downloads.
In my spare time, I read, run, swim, crochet, take care of my cat Pearl, and play drums and clarinet. Generally not all at once.
I only record books here if I absolutely love them and hugely recommend them. I definitely read more than you see here. :)
In my spare time, I read, run, swim, crochet, take care of my cat Pearl, and play drums and clarinet. Generally not all at once.
I only record books here if I absolutely love them and hugely recommend them. I definitely read more than you see here. :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
November 28, 2025
I like stories where a woman breaking free from a relationship gone wrong finds herself, meets new people and renews her passions. Thats why I felt compelled to buy this kindle book. The fmc is in a relationship for 14 years ( mind you she's only 28). She thinks he's going to propose but instead he blindsided her, tells her he is leaving her to be with another woman and oh yeah he's already cheated on her. Shes devastated 💔 and heartbroken. She shuts down for weeks until she starts going back to work. She starts putting herself out there, taking to new people, befriending a new coworker ( which was il advised), starts playing music again, discovers new passions like knotting.
Her ex completely shuts her off and isnt heard from again...until..she start s hanging out with a new sweet coworker who is obviously smitten with her. Then all if a sudden he's at her door apologizing and asking for her hand in marriage. Ridiculous behavior..absolutely.
I thought this book has some cheesy parts that reminded me of a corn eyes plotline or a early 2000s sitcom however overall I was overall satisfied at seeing the fmc grow and spread her wings 🪽.
Her ex completely shuts her off and isnt heard from again...until..she start s hanging out with a new sweet coworker who is obviously smitten with her. Then all if a sudden he's at her door apologizing and asking for her hand in marriage. Ridiculous behavior..absolutely.
I thought this book has some cheesy parts that reminded me of a corn eyes plotline or a early 2000s sitcom however overall I was overall satisfied at seeing the fmc grow and spread her wings 🪽.
November 11, 2015
Andrea comes home from a business trip to find that her boyfriend, Alex, moved out and on with someone else while she was gone. She's devastated since they've been together for 14 years (half her life since she's 28) and devises a plan to get him back. She figures he left her for someone who is her opposite so she starts the reversing project where she changes everything about herself.
Normally, I would say that changing yourself completely isn't the best idea, but in her case, she had changed over time to fit what Alex liked so she really wasn't herself at all. I would say that she discovered her true self throughout the book. She had stopped playing music because that was Alex's thing so she picked her clarinet back up and tried out for a local play. She dressed differently, took classes she was interested in, met new people and created a more fulfilling life for herself along the way.
Andrea wasn't someone I particularly liked at the beginning and when Alex left, she was quite pathetic. As she started to find her own way, she grew on me. I got a bit frustrated with her again as she slipped for a while, but that ultimately helped her figure out what she really wanted.
I enjoyed reading Andrea's story. She made new friends and not all of them were kind. It was fun to get to know all of them and I was happy with the way it ended!
Content: Some swear words (the "b" word is used a few times) and talk of sex (no details)
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
Normally, I would say that changing yourself completely isn't the best idea, but in her case, she had changed over time to fit what Alex liked so she really wasn't herself at all. I would say that she discovered her true self throughout the book. She had stopped playing music because that was Alex's thing so she picked her clarinet back up and tried out for a local play. She dressed differently, took classes she was interested in, met new people and created a more fulfilling life for herself along the way.
Andrea wasn't someone I particularly liked at the beginning and when Alex left, she was quite pathetic. As she started to find her own way, she grew on me. I got a bit frustrated with her again as she slipped for a while, but that ultimately helped her figure out what she really wanted.
I enjoyed reading Andrea's story. She made new friends and not all of them were kind. It was fun to get to know all of them and I was happy with the way it ended!
Content: Some swear words (the "b" word is used a few times) and talk of sex (no details)
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
January 17, 2012
Where would a woman be and how would she feel after the man she hoped to marry and who she's been with for half of her life (she's 28) leaves her for another woman? Her name is Andrea, and her reaction and the things she did are what this book is all about. It details her struggle from the pit of loneliness back to the world, living for the first time alone as an adult. The story drives home a lot of points: Nothing is permanent; there are nice people, and there are the other ones; when you're down, there's nowhere to go but up; we can always change; our capacity to love others is only as much as how we love ourselves....My most favorite point of all, and one that I preach to my daughter - it's not really good to commit to a boyfriend at an early age!
This is a good chick lit, as it has many good lessons to impart. Additionally, the character of Andrea, though far from ideal is someone with a good heart, and I like that a lot. This is my first book by Ms. Heather Wardell, and let me say to her - "you've got yourself another fan!"
This is a good chick lit, as it has many good lessons to impart. Additionally, the character of Andrea, though far from ideal is someone with a good heart, and I like that a lot. This is my first book by Ms. Heather Wardell, and let me say to her - "you've got yourself another fan!"
July 29, 2011
This is the third book by Heather Wardell I have read and reviewed and once again she has "hit the ball out of the park!" Once again she has created a character who most readers will recognize--either because we have known people like Andrea or because at some point in our lives we have lived in somewhat the same circumstance. Andrea is a young woman who has lived as society and the prevailing cultural perception of women has dictated: getting an education, working at a nice job, and subjugating her entire life to the whims and dictates to her man. That may seem to be an extreme statement, but our contemporary culture has long viewed women as extensions of men and taught so many of our young women that they are best served when they allow the dominant concerns of their spouses, fathers, brothers, etc. to guide them in their life choices. So it was with this young woman.
Andrea's relationship with Alex has endured for 14 years--half her life. Every bit of talent, joy, enthusiasm for one activity or another has become acceptable or rejected according to Alex's likes or dislikes. Her entire life revolved around this man whether she realized it or not. It was not until she was dumped for a woman who Alex claimed to be his "soul mate" and her complete opposite, that Andrea was forced to look at herself, her life, the people she did or did not have in her life, and her need to change. At first all the changes were for the purpose of wooing Alex back into her life. But as is often the case, the changes she made in her life were really taking her back to what she was in years past before Alex smothered all the life out of her. Funny how he really didn't like his "production" when he was finished with her, did he? In truth, she began to come alive for the first time in 14 years and even to the point that she was willing to repaint the living room of her apartment, removing the dull color that Alex preferred, so that her living space began to reflect her and not him.
This novel is an in-depth look at a life that was nearly snuffed out emotionally by one man's selfish needs to be the center of another's life. But when he moved on, Andrea was given a new opportunity to become what she was capable of being--the life she really needed to live because it would reflect her and not anyone else. Even when she discovered a memory box among some items stored by her family, she realized that she had been a sassy, enthusiastic, inquisitive and lively young woman when she graduated from high school. The years with Alex had turned her into a woman without an opinion about much of anything, one who had become dull and malleable, and one who was no longer attractive to anyone, much less herself.
I was absolutely enthralled as I read about Andrea's evolving life, about the way she began to re-discover the heart and soul of herself, the courage to act and think differently, the ability she had always possessed and set aside to be creative and to express herself through music, home arts, and dance. She truly became a new person. This novel chronicles that evolution as Andrea moves in and out of friendships, learns to trust her instincts, and as a new friend counselled: listen to her gut. It is a book that would be wonderful for all women to read, even those of us who have been blessed in our relationships and who have been impacted by powerful thinkers. Young women, especially, would do well to read this book--what a picture of what not to let happen to oneself all in the name of "love."
There are some wonderful supporting characters in this novel and people who I came to think of as metaphors for the kinds of people we all hope to meet and have in our friendship circles. There are some that represent those who are self-motivated, who think only of their own ambitions and advancement, and who are only happy when their ideas and opinions are being foisted on others. Kudos to Andrea for learning and figuring out how to live in a world where those kinds of people can do damage if allowed.
Most of all, I had the sense all through this book that there was an underlying energy and life-force that was trying to express itself through Andrea. And as she continued to fill her life with joy, creativity, music, friends of sterling character, and even some possible men of interest down the road, she stands as a testimony to the fact that everyone should and must live the life that "fits" them . . . the life that is building them up as individuals but which is also an expression to the world of their true nature and worth.
This novel is truly a romantic piece with the emphasis on the true nature of love and friendship, of a life that reads like a finely woven garment, with the flare and verve that comes when nothing is allowed to rob one of that which gives true joy. I think Ms Wardell has written a wonderful novel and even just in the style and literary skill with which the novel is written she has demonstrated that she can hold her head high among those who have gifted us with their writing talents. I can't recommend this novel enough.
I give it a rating of 5 out of 5.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Judith.
Andrea's relationship with Alex has endured for 14 years--half her life. Every bit of talent, joy, enthusiasm for one activity or another has become acceptable or rejected according to Alex's likes or dislikes. Her entire life revolved around this man whether she realized it or not. It was not until she was dumped for a woman who Alex claimed to be his "soul mate" and her complete opposite, that Andrea was forced to look at herself, her life, the people she did or did not have in her life, and her need to change. At first all the changes were for the purpose of wooing Alex back into her life. But as is often the case, the changes she made in her life were really taking her back to what she was in years past before Alex smothered all the life out of her. Funny how he really didn't like his "production" when he was finished with her, did he? In truth, she began to come alive for the first time in 14 years and even to the point that she was willing to repaint the living room of her apartment, removing the dull color that Alex preferred, so that her living space began to reflect her and not him.
This novel is an in-depth look at a life that was nearly snuffed out emotionally by one man's selfish needs to be the center of another's life. But when he moved on, Andrea was given a new opportunity to become what she was capable of being--the life she really needed to live because it would reflect her and not anyone else. Even when she discovered a memory box among some items stored by her family, she realized that she had been a sassy, enthusiastic, inquisitive and lively young woman when she graduated from high school. The years with Alex had turned her into a woman without an opinion about much of anything, one who had become dull and malleable, and one who was no longer attractive to anyone, much less herself.
I was absolutely enthralled as I read about Andrea's evolving life, about the way she began to re-discover the heart and soul of herself, the courage to act and think differently, the ability she had always possessed and set aside to be creative and to express herself through music, home arts, and dance. She truly became a new person. This novel chronicles that evolution as Andrea moves in and out of friendships, learns to trust her instincts, and as a new friend counselled: listen to her gut. It is a book that would be wonderful for all women to read, even those of us who have been blessed in our relationships and who have been impacted by powerful thinkers. Young women, especially, would do well to read this book--what a picture of what not to let happen to oneself all in the name of "love."
There are some wonderful supporting characters in this novel and people who I came to think of as metaphors for the kinds of people we all hope to meet and have in our friendship circles. There are some that represent those who are self-motivated, who think only of their own ambitions and advancement, and who are only happy when their ideas and opinions are being foisted on others. Kudos to Andrea for learning and figuring out how to live in a world where those kinds of people can do damage if allowed.
Most of all, I had the sense all through this book that there was an underlying energy and life-force that was trying to express itself through Andrea. And as she continued to fill her life with joy, creativity, music, friends of sterling character, and even some possible men of interest down the road, she stands as a testimony to the fact that everyone should and must live the life that "fits" them . . . the life that is building them up as individuals but which is also an expression to the world of their true nature and worth.
This novel is truly a romantic piece with the emphasis on the true nature of love and friendship, of a life that reads like a finely woven garment, with the flare and verve that comes when nothing is allowed to rob one of that which gives true joy. I think Ms Wardell has written a wonderful novel and even just in the style and literary skill with which the novel is written she has demonstrated that she can hold her head high among those who have gifted us with their writing talents. I can't recommend this novel enough.
I give it a rating of 5 out of 5.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Judith.
June 26, 2011
Review initially posted at It's Not All Vanity, Darling.
I have to admit that in my younger years I was somewhat addicted to romance novels, reading as many as I could whilst away from the judgemental eyes of my classmates. I guess in those years I overdosed on them a little, as it has been quite some time since I read a title such as this.
The one thing that came immediately to mind when I began reading A Life That Fits was the writing. There were numerous times when I thought could have been tightened up in some way or other. We are occasionally given too much information, some completely unnecessary to the story, which interrupts the flow and slows the pace of the story. There are certain times where words or phrases don't fit, or they are repeated within a short period of time. I also came across a couple of sentences that seemed to run on forever due to the choices of words and grammar.
That aside I enjoyed the way Wardell created certain images in my mind, for example the way in which she built the idea of fighting for sleep after such a crushing rejection. Throughout the book she portrayed the very real emotions that tread so carelessly across ones mind after the break-down of a relationship. She did this so well that at several points the feelings struck a little too close to home. Wardell often managed to make me forget about the shortfalls noted in my previous paragraph.
I liked how Andrea was forced to deal with the modern take on romance involving the dreaded 'Facebook breakup'. At the same time though, it kind of grated against me and my aversion popular culture references in fiction as I mentioned in my previous review.
I liked the way in which Andrea went about rebuilding herself, even if it was initially for her scum-bag ex. I enjoyed following her as she discovered all the things that she had missed in the time she was with Alex and how she finally learned that she didn't need his permission or acceptance to try something new.
*Spoiler warning*
The relationship that Andrea builds with Loren is absolutely adorable. It created a sense of juxtaposition in my mind because it just seems so innocent and young, almost as though she was fifteen with her first kiss, but she's a professional woman of twenty-eight.
I severely disliked Andrea's indecisiveness especially about her job, first she wants it, then she doesn't, then she does, doesn't does... Later about her men, I almost stopped reading after Andrea went back to Alex. I know it's part of the story but I absolutely HATE reading about women who go back to men who cheat on them.
*End spoilers*
All in all I did rather enjoyed this book. I give it three stars out of five, it would probably have been four were it not for that last point. I look forward to reading Heather's next book (of which there is a sample at the end of the e-book version).
I have to admit that in my younger years I was somewhat addicted to romance novels, reading as many as I could whilst away from the judgemental eyes of my classmates. I guess in those years I overdosed on them a little, as it has been quite some time since I read a title such as this.
The one thing that came immediately to mind when I began reading A Life That Fits was the writing. There were numerous times when I thought could have been tightened up in some way or other. We are occasionally given too much information, some completely unnecessary to the story, which interrupts the flow and slows the pace of the story. There are certain times where words or phrases don't fit, or they are repeated within a short period of time. I also came across a couple of sentences that seemed to run on forever due to the choices of words and grammar.
That aside I enjoyed the way Wardell created certain images in my mind, for example the way in which she built the idea of fighting for sleep after such a crushing rejection. Throughout the book she portrayed the very real emotions that tread so carelessly across ones mind after the break-down of a relationship. She did this so well that at several points the feelings struck a little too close to home. Wardell often managed to make me forget about the shortfalls noted in my previous paragraph.
I liked how Andrea was forced to deal with the modern take on romance involving the dreaded 'Facebook breakup'. At the same time though, it kind of grated against me and my aversion popular culture references in fiction as I mentioned in my previous review.
I liked the way in which Andrea went about rebuilding herself, even if it was initially for her scum-bag ex. I enjoyed following her as she discovered all the things that she had missed in the time she was with Alex and how she finally learned that she didn't need his permission or acceptance to try something new.
*Spoiler warning*
The relationship that Andrea builds with Loren is absolutely adorable. It created a sense of juxtaposition in my mind because it just seems so innocent and young, almost as though she was fifteen with her first kiss, but she's a professional woman of twenty-eight.
I severely disliked Andrea's indecisiveness especially about her job, first she wants it, then she doesn't, then she does, doesn't does... Later about her men, I almost stopped reading after Andrea went back to Alex. I know it's part of the story but I absolutely HATE reading about women who go back to men who cheat on them.
*End spoilers*
All in all I did rather enjoyed this book. I give it three stars out of five, it would probably have been four were it not for that last point. I look forward to reading Heather's next book (of which there is a sample at the end of the e-book version).
July 12, 2011
Heather Wardell has the distinction of being the only author I've emailed to ask if she has any new books for me to read. And, wonder of wonders, she wrote me back! I've read and loved all of Heather's previous books, so I was thrilled to hear that A Life That Fits was ready for me to dive into.
Every time I sit down to read one of Heather's books, I am completely engrossed. Everything in my world stops when I start reading one of her books. That feeling of total immersion happens so rarely for me now, that I really enjoy it when I do feel that way about a book.
My favorite thing about Wardell's work is her characterization. I relate so well to her heroines, I feel like I'm reading about myself or someone who could be my friend. Her stories feature women who are struggling to balance it all: love, career, personal dreams, and family drama. Each story is different but some of themes are similar. Her books are women's fiction without being full of bedroom scenes. I really don't like it when romance authors substitute relationship development with sex scenes. I want to know why two characters are in love, and read about them falling in love, not just falling into bed with each other.
I sped through A Life That Fits in one day because I just couldn't wait to find out how the story ended. I just had to know what happened with Andrea and Alex. And I was 100% happy with the conclusion. I closed my Nook cover feeling totally satisfied, with my only complaint being that the book was over. It was a great ride, and now I'm on pins and needles until Wardell's next book come out. If you haven't read anything by Heather Wardell before, check out her books here. Her first novel, Life, Love, and a Polar Bear Tatoo, is free on her website. Free!! Go there now and jump right in!
Every time I sit down to read one of Heather's books, I am completely engrossed. Everything in my world stops when I start reading one of her books. That feeling of total immersion happens so rarely for me now, that I really enjoy it when I do feel that way about a book.
My favorite thing about Wardell's work is her characterization. I relate so well to her heroines, I feel like I'm reading about myself or someone who could be my friend. Her stories feature women who are struggling to balance it all: love, career, personal dreams, and family drama. Each story is different but some of themes are similar. Her books are women's fiction without being full of bedroom scenes. I really don't like it when romance authors substitute relationship development with sex scenes. I want to know why two characters are in love, and read about them falling in love, not just falling into bed with each other.
I sped through A Life That Fits in one day because I just couldn't wait to find out how the story ended. I just had to know what happened with Andrea and Alex. And I was 100% happy with the conclusion. I closed my Nook cover feeling totally satisfied, with my only complaint being that the book was over. It was a great ride, and now I'm on pins and needles until Wardell's next book come out. If you haven't read anything by Heather Wardell before, check out her books here. Her first novel, Life, Love, and a Polar Bear Tatoo, is free on her website. Free!! Go there now and jump right in!
December 31, 2022
What a great book! The protagonist navigates tricky relationships in unique ways. She takes leaps where the rest of us would stand on the edge biting our nails. But she takes these leaps with all the fear we would have which makes her real and easy to identify with.
All the characters are intriguing and necessary. I cared very much what happened next. I was on the edge of my seat the whole book and satisfied at the end. I’ll definitely read this again.
All the characters are intriguing and necessary. I cared very much what happened next. I was on the edge of my seat the whole book and satisfied at the end. I’ll definitely read this again.
July 20, 2011
The perfect girl book! I loved every page of it!
April 12, 2012
A Life That Fits features Andrea who is struggling to rebuild her life after her childhood sweetheart dumps her. The end of her fourteen year relationship with Alex leaves her floundering, her identity has been so tightly bound with his that on her own she is not sure about who she is or what she wants. After a period of mourning, Andrea sets out on a journey to win Alex back but what she finds is herself.
A Life That Fits has a strong, positive message for women facing a relationship breakdown. Andrea is naturally crushed at being dumped by the man she had expected to spend her life with and mourns the relationship, entertaining fantasies of reconciliation. After so many years as 'AndreaandAlex' she can barely imagine her life without the relationship. For Andrea, it's not a matter of resuming her life after the break up but reinventing it. The 'reversal project' is a great idea even if initially her motivation is skewed. Forcing herself into new experiences allows Andrea to develop her individual identity and builds her self esteem. I admired Andrea taking chances, facing her fear and trying different activities. I liked that she learnt to listen to her 'gut' and made mistakes but didn't let them hold her back, essentially Andrea grew up.
I didn't feel there was enough momentum in the plot to sustain the novel though. Andrea spends a lot of time grieving her relationship and her career which is realistic but does not make for an interesting narrative. Andrea's career issues offers a subplot to the relationship focus but I don't think Wardell exploited it quite enough (I never really got a sense of what Andrea's job really entailed either other than conference trips and paperwork). I do think that Wardell handles the relationships in the novel authentically though coincidences abound.
For me, the issues with the plot affects the pacing, it does tend to drag in places. There are a few instances of repetitive phrasing and clumsy sentence structure and overall I do think the novel needs just a touch more polish.
I am sure many readers will be able to relate to Andrea's heartbreak and recovery. A Life That Fits is a pleasant read with an inspirational message that encourages women to find inner strength and individual identity.
A Life That Fits has a strong, positive message for women facing a relationship breakdown. Andrea is naturally crushed at being dumped by the man she had expected to spend her life with and mourns the relationship, entertaining fantasies of reconciliation. After so many years as 'AndreaandAlex' she can barely imagine her life without the relationship. For Andrea, it's not a matter of resuming her life after the break up but reinventing it. The 'reversal project' is a great idea even if initially her motivation is skewed. Forcing herself into new experiences allows Andrea to develop her individual identity and builds her self esteem. I admired Andrea taking chances, facing her fear and trying different activities. I liked that she learnt to listen to her 'gut' and made mistakes but didn't let them hold her back, essentially Andrea grew up.
I didn't feel there was enough momentum in the plot to sustain the novel though. Andrea spends a lot of time grieving her relationship and her career which is realistic but does not make for an interesting narrative. Andrea's career issues offers a subplot to the relationship focus but I don't think Wardell exploited it quite enough (I never really got a sense of what Andrea's job really entailed either other than conference trips and paperwork). I do think that Wardell handles the relationships in the novel authentically though coincidences abound.
For me, the issues with the plot affects the pacing, it does tend to drag in places. There are a few instances of repetitive phrasing and clumsy sentence structure and overall I do think the novel needs just a touch more polish.
I am sure many readers will be able to relate to Andrea's heartbreak and recovery. A Life That Fits is a pleasant read with an inspirational message that encourages women to find inner strength and individual identity.
skimmed
December 18, 2023Skimmed, so no rating. Super angsty; two relationships, double marriage in trouble with cheating. The excuse for cheating is very bad...9/11 survival high basically....which undermines the book's plot and ending. The cheating is uncovered years after it happened, so its a complicated situation in terms of forgiveness since both couples were happy pre-secret reveal.
August 22, 2011
The book was great I couldn't put it down! So excited to read Heather's other books!
August 2, 2011
Twenty-eight year old Andrea returns home from a business trip fully expecting her live in boyfriend of 14 years, Alex, to propose to her. Instead, she comes home to find he has packed up all his belongings and is leaving her for a woman who he claims is Andrea's complete opposite. After spending a few weeks holed up alone in her apartment, Andrea devises a plan to get Alex back. If he wants someone completely different, than she will reverse everything about herself! But after completing her life shake up Andrea will have to decide what it means to change everything in an attempt to get back to what life used to be.
I assumed that Heather Wardell's novel, A Life that Fits would be a simple tale of the reinvented woman who takes off her glasses and buys a push-up bra only to finally land her man (think She's All That and every other rom com that tells young woman that all they need is a makeover to snag a boyfriend). I was pleased to be wrong because instead of wadding in the (pun intended) shallow end, Wardell pulls the reader into the emotional depths of a shattered life plan and what it feels like to put it back together. Wardell's main character, Andrea, seems to make all her changes based on what her ex never supported her in before and therefore begins to discover the individual woman she. I easily related to Andrea as she cultivated who she was. I think that others would also relate as many of us have someone in our lives that we can never be our authentic self around.
I also think that A Life that Fits is about dealing with and becoming empowered to leave behind emotionally abusive relationships. There is very little redeeming about Andrea's ex, Alex, and as the story unfolds it is clear that he preys on women's insecurities and manipulates them to his desires. There were points in the novel that I was acutely fearful for Andrea. Alex's emotionally abusive behaviour is the most clear when placed in contrast to Andrea's co-worker and crush, Loren who is kind, supportive and encourages Andrea in all she does.
Wardell has a knack for making the reader emotionally invested. At times the amount of drama was overwhelming. On the one hand, I had to question how anyone in Andrea's office was able to get any work done as the Soap Opera-esque drama unfolded daily. But on the other hand, there is a healthy dose of romantic drama such as the rainy day kiss that steamed up my windows and left me gasping for air. To this I say, bravo!
I have to note how pleased I am that Wardell is a Canadian writer and that her story setting is in the city I adore, Toronto. By chance, I finished reading A Life that Fits while spending a few hours on the VIA train heading into the T-Dot. The mention of locations like Canada's Wonderland and the Eaton's Centre makes my little Ontarian heart burst! Maybe it is cheesy, but I like when stories are based in locations I have grown up in and it makes me glad to know that there is modern chick-lit/women's literature being written just down the 401 from me.
As a personal aside, A Life that Fits came at a perfect time in my life. I am in the middle of a life shake up and Andrea's advice of listening to one's gut has come in handy. If we listen very carefully to ourselves and block out the voices that berate us and cause doubt, than we can always find the path we need to be on.
I recommend A Life that Fits to everyone. It is wonderfully written, taking the reader on an emotional journey of a woman's self discovery and empowerment that you won't be able to put down!
Originally posted at http://bitchlitblog.wordpress.com
I assumed that Heather Wardell's novel, A Life that Fits would be a simple tale of the reinvented woman who takes off her glasses and buys a push-up bra only to finally land her man (think She's All That and every other rom com that tells young woman that all they need is a makeover to snag a boyfriend). I was pleased to be wrong because instead of wadding in the (pun intended) shallow end, Wardell pulls the reader into the emotional depths of a shattered life plan and what it feels like to put it back together. Wardell's main character, Andrea, seems to make all her changes based on what her ex never supported her in before and therefore begins to discover the individual woman she. I easily related to Andrea as she cultivated who she was. I think that others would also relate as many of us have someone in our lives that we can never be our authentic self around.
I also think that A Life that Fits is about dealing with and becoming empowered to leave behind emotionally abusive relationships. There is very little redeeming about Andrea's ex, Alex, and as the story unfolds it is clear that he preys on women's insecurities and manipulates them to his desires. There were points in the novel that I was acutely fearful for Andrea. Alex's emotionally abusive behaviour is the most clear when placed in contrast to Andrea's co-worker and crush, Loren who is kind, supportive and encourages Andrea in all she does.
Wardell has a knack for making the reader emotionally invested. At times the amount of drama was overwhelming. On the one hand, I had to question how anyone in Andrea's office was able to get any work done as the Soap Opera-esque drama unfolded daily. But on the other hand, there is a healthy dose of romantic drama such as the rainy day kiss that steamed up my windows and left me gasping for air. To this I say, bravo!
I have to note how pleased I am that Wardell is a Canadian writer and that her story setting is in the city I adore, Toronto. By chance, I finished reading A Life that Fits while spending a few hours on the VIA train heading into the T-Dot. The mention of locations like Canada's Wonderland and the Eaton's Centre makes my little Ontarian heart burst! Maybe it is cheesy, but I like when stories are based in locations I have grown up in and it makes me glad to know that there is modern chick-lit/women's literature being written just down the 401 from me.
As a personal aside, A Life that Fits came at a perfect time in my life. I am in the middle of a life shake up and Andrea's advice of listening to one's gut has come in handy. If we listen very carefully to ourselves and block out the voices that berate us and cause doubt, than we can always find the path we need to be on.
I recommend A Life that Fits to everyone. It is wonderfully written, taking the reader on an emotional journey of a woman's self discovery and empowerment that you won't be able to put down!
Originally posted at http://bitchlitblog.wordpress.com
August 1, 2011
In Heather Wardell’s A Life That Fits, Andrea’s life is thrown into a tailspin when, at twenty-eight, the man she’s loved for half her life tells her he’s leaving her for another woman, a woman as opposite to Andrea as possible.
In the midst of her devastation, Andrea decides to become the “anti-Andrea” in order to win back Alex, her lost love.
So Andrea starts doing all kinds of things to break out of her rut and get Alex back- new clothes, new friends, new hobbies.
WARNING: Potentially spoilery stuff here. The things I want to say may give away some hints as to what happens, although I am not intentionally giving away any more than the Amazon summary.
As Andrea is creating this amazing new life for herself and learning who she is without Alex, she starts to realize that there may not be a place for Alex in her life, even if she changes enough to win him back. This is where I really got into the story. Andrea inspired me. Yes, I know she’s a character. But she was doing all these really cool things, and learning to be more open and authentic and do what felt right to her. I loved that. I found myself putting down the book to Google- and actually act on- things I’ve always wanted to do but never have.
I don’t know if Heather intended Andrea to be such an inspiration to readers, but all I kept thinking while I was reading was “Live with no regrets” and “You can sit there and let life pass you by, or you can LIVE it”. It almost became irrelevant whether or not Andrea and Alex got back together. Except that Wardell didn’t take that path and let the resolution become irrelevant.
Life’s often messy and complicated, even when we’re at our best and most honest self, and that’s no exception in this story. Heather throws in a couple of plot twists that put Andrea’s relationships to a true test, with no certainty of a happy ending. And while the ending is certainly satisfactory (and, I thought, quite appropriate) it is far from tied up in a neat package with a fancy bow, as so many tales are. That’s just one more piece of authenticity in the book.
I don’t know if Heather intended this much thought in the story, but I’m intrigued when something that could have been formulaic and could have been “just another book” makes me stop and take a look at my own life and contemplate change.
In the midst of her devastation, Andrea decides to become the “anti-Andrea” in order to win back Alex, her lost love.
So Andrea starts doing all kinds of things to break out of her rut and get Alex back- new clothes, new friends, new hobbies.
WARNING: Potentially spoilery stuff here. The things I want to say may give away some hints as to what happens, although I am not intentionally giving away any more than the Amazon summary.
As Andrea is creating this amazing new life for herself and learning who she is without Alex, she starts to realize that there may not be a place for Alex in her life, even if she changes enough to win him back. This is where I really got into the story. Andrea inspired me. Yes, I know she’s a character. But she was doing all these really cool things, and learning to be more open and authentic and do what felt right to her. I loved that. I found myself putting down the book to Google- and actually act on- things I’ve always wanted to do but never have.
I don’t know if Heather intended Andrea to be such an inspiration to readers, but all I kept thinking while I was reading was “Live with no regrets” and “You can sit there and let life pass you by, or you can LIVE it”. It almost became irrelevant whether or not Andrea and Alex got back together. Except that Wardell didn’t take that path and let the resolution become irrelevant.
Life’s often messy and complicated, even when we’re at our best and most honest self, and that’s no exception in this story. Heather throws in a couple of plot twists that put Andrea’s relationships to a true test, with no certainty of a happy ending. And while the ending is certainly satisfactory (and, I thought, quite appropriate) it is far from tied up in a neat package with a fancy bow, as so many tales are. That’s just one more piece of authenticity in the book.
I don’t know if Heather intended this much thought in the story, but I’m intrigued when something that could have been formulaic and could have been “just another book” makes me stop and take a look at my own life and contemplate change.
November 25, 2015
I can't imagine being with the same guy for fourteen years without a ring on my finger, but that's just how it is with Andrea and her boyfriend, Alex. Andrea assumes that everything is going well, but then she finds herself suddenly dumped--without any warning. When the shock wears off, she makes a plan to reverse things in her life to become her opposite, in the hopes that Alex will take her back.
I hate it when people change to become who they think their boyfriend/girlfriend wants them to be, but Andrea's case is different. I believe that people change a lot in their teens and early twenties--molding and shaping who they truly are. Since Andrea and Alex were together since they were fourteen, a lot of adapting happened and it seems that Andrea was doing most of the adapting. By reversing herself, she's not really becoming the true opposite of herself, but she's finally free to become who she really, truly is. She's always wanted a cat, but Alex hates them, so she allows herself to get a cat. She discovers many talents and hobbies that were kept suppressed or hidden and thoroughly enjoys them now. She becomes independent and confident and I loved watching her evolve and learn to rely on herself to make decisions. I don't want to give things away, but Andrea does have the opportunity to date and take chances that way and I love the way that aspect of the story is developed.
I can't understand how she stayed with Alex for so long. I thought after being together for half of their lives, she would know him inside and out, yet he is full of surprises, and most of them are negative.
This book is written in a way that really draws a reader in. Andrea has normal and natural feelings and reactions and since it's told in first person, I felt like a friend was filling me in on her life. I'm content with my life, but it made me stop and think--am I really doing all I want to do or do I need to make some adjustments to be true to myself?
Content: moderate language; no violence or religious elements; moderate sexual content--There is a lot of talk about sex without any details at all. There is also talk of same gender relationships without any details. There is also kissing, which is sweet and clean. Technically clean, but not really appropriate for a younger reader.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
I hate it when people change to become who they think their boyfriend/girlfriend wants them to be, but Andrea's case is different. I believe that people change a lot in their teens and early twenties--molding and shaping who they truly are. Since Andrea and Alex were together since they were fourteen, a lot of adapting happened and it seems that Andrea was doing most of the adapting. By reversing herself, she's not really becoming the true opposite of herself, but she's finally free to become who she really, truly is. She's always wanted a cat, but Alex hates them, so she allows herself to get a cat. She discovers many talents and hobbies that were kept suppressed or hidden and thoroughly enjoys them now. She becomes independent and confident and I loved watching her evolve and learn to rely on herself to make decisions. I don't want to give things away, but Andrea does have the opportunity to date and take chances that way and I love the way that aspect of the story is developed.
I can't understand how she stayed with Alex for so long. I thought after being together for half of their lives, she would know him inside and out, yet he is full of surprises, and most of them are negative.
This book is written in a way that really draws a reader in. Andrea has normal and natural feelings and reactions and since it's told in first person, I felt like a friend was filling me in on her life. I'm content with my life, but it made me stop and think--am I really doing all I want to do or do I need to make some adjustments to be true to myself?
Content: moderate language; no violence or religious elements; moderate sexual content--There is a lot of talk about sex without any details at all. There is also talk of same gender relationships without any details. There is also kissing, which is sweet and clean. Technically clean, but not really appropriate for a younger reader.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
August 29, 2012
Trama: La ventottenne Andrea sta da quattordici anni, fin dall’adolescenza, con Alex, il suo primo e unico amore, finchè lui, cogliendola di sorpresa di ritorno da un viaggio, non la molla all’improvviso per un altra. La vita di Andrea è devastata, non sa più come esistere come single e deve reinventarsi una vita senza Alex. Rabbia, risentimento, dolore, tutte fasi per cui passa, ma ne esce rendendosi infine conto di tutte le piccole cose, i piccolo sogni a cui aveva rinunciato per il quieto vivere e per Alex. Lo amava, ma per lui si era soffocata e solo ora lo capisce. Così sola può finalmente prendersi il gatto che aveva sempre voluto, riprendere a suonare, e giura a se stessa, quando possibile di fare tutto il contrario di ciò che avrebbe fatto di solito. Cambio di lavoro, di guardaroba, di hobbies, di tutto, persino forse un nuovo amore…. è piuttosto stressata, ma felice e poi Alex ritorna da lei. Una parte di lei vuole riprenderlo, un altra vuole cacciarlo a pedate, ma l’abitudine è forte….vincerà?
La mia opinione: Gran bel libro, immedesimarsi con la protagonista è facile e lei è amabilissima, parte fragile, ma piano piano cresce e diventa una persona autonoma e felice, ha dei dubbi, delle cadute e la rottura, due volte, con Alex la rende insicura nei rapporti, ora teme di perdere l’individualità acquisita e la libertà legandosi ad un nuovo uomo, ma poi capirà che l’amore non è sempre una gabbia. Un libro, carino, piacevole, divertente con tanti personaggi simpatici e vivi. Già solo per la scena del raffreddore collettivo dell’orchestra vale la pena comprarlo. Inoltre ha anche insegnamenti che potrebbero essere d0’aiuto ha molte donne, non è detto che per stare assieme uno debba soffocare se stesso, non è giusta che in ogni discussione sia sempre la stessa persona a cedere eppure è così facile e semplice, meno complicato accondiscendere che noi donne spesso cadiamo in questo baratro del quieto vivere anche quando non dovremmo. All’erta.
La mia opinione: Gran bel libro, immedesimarsi con la protagonista è facile e lei è amabilissima, parte fragile, ma piano piano cresce e diventa una persona autonoma e felice, ha dei dubbi, delle cadute e la rottura, due volte, con Alex la rende insicura nei rapporti, ora teme di perdere l’individualità acquisita e la libertà legandosi ad un nuovo uomo, ma poi capirà che l’amore non è sempre una gabbia. Un libro, carino, piacevole, divertente con tanti personaggi simpatici e vivi. Già solo per la scena del raffreddore collettivo dell’orchestra vale la pena comprarlo. Inoltre ha anche insegnamenti che potrebbero essere d0’aiuto ha molte donne, non è detto che per stare assieme uno debba soffocare se stesso, non è giusta che in ogni discussione sia sempre la stessa persona a cedere eppure è così facile e semplice, meno complicato accondiscendere che noi donne spesso cadiamo in questo baratro del quieto vivere anche quando non dovremmo. All’erta.
July 13, 2011
This was a new style for me when it came to Heather Wardell's work. Usually I meet the character where they are in their present life. Then she takes me back on a journey through time to show me everything they had gone through. I would then get to return to the present and finish up with what decision this character had to make. So, when I sat down with A Life That Fits, I met Andrea and had expected a story on how her and Alex had gotten to the point of him breaking up with her. Instead, I got to go on a different journey with Heather's writing and I got to go with Andrea as she found her way to who she was. Not this person who for 14 years had done everything Alex had wanted her to do. She learned who she was and what she wanted. She made drastic changes in her life and then finally settled back into the middle and discovered who she was and what she wanted.
There were times in this book I wanted to shake Andrea as hard as I could. I wanted to give her a good talking to and tell her to get over Alex, he was no good. I knew at some point his character would crawl back begging for a return. There were several other characters in the book I enjoyed. One was Loren. I really enjoyed getting to know him. When reading this, you will meet Tina and you will want to chase her away and tell Andrea she is no good. The author weaves in a lot of different characters. This is a very good book and I think any of my readers who enjoy chick-lit are going to love this. There is a slight romance in this book in the background, but it is not the main part of the book.
I would definitely add this book to your to be read list. Be sure to check out Heather at her website and see what she's up to on facebook and twitter.
There were times in this book I wanted to shake Andrea as hard as I could. I wanted to give her a good talking to and tell her to get over Alex, he was no good. I knew at some point his character would crawl back begging for a return. There were several other characters in the book I enjoyed. One was Loren. I really enjoyed getting to know him. When reading this, you will meet Tina and you will want to chase her away and tell Andrea she is no good. The author weaves in a lot of different characters. This is a very good book and I think any of my readers who enjoy chick-lit are going to love this. There is a slight romance in this book in the background, but it is not the main part of the book.
I would definitely add this book to your to be read list. Be sure to check out Heather at her website and see what she's up to on facebook and twitter.
October 8, 2011
A Life That Fits wasn't what I expected. It mostly dealt with Andrea, learning how to grow up and be an adult. I loved that fact about this book. Maybe it's because the last book I felt dealt a little too much with the love interest and she was bitchy about it. Of course, her husband did die.
Another thing I loved was that I found myself relating not to the main protagonist, which I normally do and still did here, but I related to Alex. A long time ago in my past relationship, I saw what I was doing to my girlfriend. She lost that spark and I was becoming her world. I loved her very much but I was destroying and ruining her. So I let her go, and I think I did the right thing. Wish she came back, but what are you going to do. Alex just decided to cheat instead because, well, I don't really know why. I wish it was explained more. All he came off as was a jerk and he could have been more fleshed out. Different choices, different paths.
Anyways, enough about my past. I did thoroughly enjoy the book. The beginning was a bit slow because Andrea was the only character and a bit whiny through most of it. Once she decided to "reverse" things, it started to pick up. I didn't realize it at the time, but I also did the same thing, but in far smaller steps. I should really give it another go.
The beauty about this book is that it works as a chick-lit, a self-help, and a nice love story, all in one. There were a few problems like how a 28 year old decides not only on a career but a boring one, how she can take so much time off, and how could she afford to do all the things she did, and what she ever saw in Alex, but overall, it was a very enjoyable book.
Another thing I loved was that I found myself relating not to the main protagonist, which I normally do and still did here, but I related to Alex. A long time ago in my past relationship, I saw what I was doing to my girlfriend. She lost that spark and I was becoming her world. I loved her very much but I was destroying and ruining her. So I let her go, and I think I did the right thing. Wish she came back, but what are you going to do. Alex just decided to cheat instead because, well, I don't really know why. I wish it was explained more. All he came off as was a jerk and he could have been more fleshed out. Different choices, different paths.
Anyways, enough about my past. I did thoroughly enjoy the book. The beginning was a bit slow because Andrea was the only character and a bit whiny through most of it. Once she decided to "reverse" things, it started to pick up. I didn't realize it at the time, but I also did the same thing, but in far smaller steps. I should really give it another go.
The beauty about this book is that it works as a chick-lit, a self-help, and a nice love story, all in one. There were a few problems like how a 28 year old decides not only on a career but a boring one, how she can take so much time off, and how could she afford to do all the things she did, and what she ever saw in Alex, but overall, it was a very enjoyable book.
November 6, 2011
When twenty-eight year old Andrea returns from a business trip, she’s stunned when her boyfriend of fourteen years promptly dumps her for another woman. Her entire world is turned upside down. She can’t even go to work.
Finally, she pulls herself out of her depression with a life plan. She’s going to change her life totally around and be the exact opposite of what she is now. In the back of her mind, Andrea is convinced this will win Alex back. She changes her wardrobe to include more colorful clothes, she adds a few hobbies to her life including knitting and belly dancing and even adopts a cat. Andrea finds herself surrounded with new friends and she’s actually enjoying herself until she loses her job, but she somehow manages to get past that and get her career back on track.
At first I was a bit bothered that Andrea was so willing to be Alex’s doormat, but I kept reading and realized what a great story that shows a character growing from a weak, dependent girl to a strong, independent woman. There were many LOL moments as well as a few tears in Andrea’s journey of discovering her true inner self. This is a fast-paced read that will have readers cheering for Andrea to get the life she wants and deserves.
I’ve read a few books by Heather Wardell and she never disappoints. I still have a couple on my Nook that I intend to read. Her stories are light, cheery books that will make readers smile after the last page is finished.
FTC Disclosure: The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Finally, she pulls herself out of her depression with a life plan. She’s going to change her life totally around and be the exact opposite of what she is now. In the back of her mind, Andrea is convinced this will win Alex back. She changes her wardrobe to include more colorful clothes, she adds a few hobbies to her life including knitting and belly dancing and even adopts a cat. Andrea finds herself surrounded with new friends and she’s actually enjoying herself until she loses her job, but she somehow manages to get past that and get her career back on track.
At first I was a bit bothered that Andrea was so willing to be Alex’s doormat, but I kept reading and realized what a great story that shows a character growing from a weak, dependent girl to a strong, independent woman. There were many LOL moments as well as a few tears in Andrea’s journey of discovering her true inner self. This is a fast-paced read that will have readers cheering for Andrea to get the life she wants and deserves.
I’ve read a few books by Heather Wardell and she never disappoints. I still have a couple on my Nook that I intend to read. Her stories are light, cheery books that will make readers smile after the last page is finished.
FTC Disclosure: The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 16, 2015
Dit boek is echt een voorbeeld van hoe je met jezelf in de knoop kan liggen en hoe je je leven weer op de rails kan krijgen. Moet je jezelf veranderen in de hoop dat de andere opnieuw voor je valt of is het belangrijker dat je je leven leidt zodat het echt is zoals je het zelf wil? Moet je jezelf wegcijferen en meegaan in de mening van de ander of is het eerder aan de ander om jouw eigenheid te accepteren? Dit zijn allemaal vragen die aan bod komen in dit boek. Heel veel emoties en wat heel mooi is, is de strijd die Andrea met zichzelf levert en zo probeert om tot een ideale combinatie te komen van wat ze eigenlijk wil. En dan hoor je me waarschijnlijk weer komen. 'Waar is die epiloog?' Eerst dacht ik ok, het is normaal dat er een open einde is omdat er nog een deel achterkomt in de 'Toronto serie' maar als je dan de inhoud van het vervolg leest, dan zie je dat het niet meer over dezelfde persoon gaat en dat de serie enkel de naam kreeg omdat de verhalen zich in die stad afspelen. Beetje jammer, want ik had echt graag geweten hoe het verder zou gaan.
frown-emoticon
De cover is op het eerste zicht niet duidelijk maar hij krijgt wel zijn verklaring naar het einde van het boek toe. De titel is dan wel onmiddellijk te begrijpen. Beiden zijn dus perfect gekozen.
smile-emoticon
Conclusie
Ik hou wel van de schrijf - en vertelstijl van deze auteur. Ik had nog nooit van haar gehoord maar ik heb nog meer boeken van haar klaarstaan die ik, hopelijk, met evenveel plezier zal lezen. 3,5 sterren. Het zouden er 4 geweest zijn, mocht er nog een tipje van de sluier over de toekomst zijn opgelicht.
frown-emoticon
De cover is op het eerste zicht niet duidelijk maar hij krijgt wel zijn verklaring naar het einde van het boek toe. De titel is dan wel onmiddellijk te begrijpen. Beiden zijn dus perfect gekozen.
smile-emoticon
Conclusie
Ik hou wel van de schrijf - en vertelstijl van deze auteur. Ik had nog nooit van haar gehoord maar ik heb nog meer boeken van haar klaarstaan die ik, hopelijk, met evenveel plezier zal lezen. 3,5 sterren. Het zouden er 4 geweest zijn, mocht er nog een tipje van de sluier over de toekomst zijn opgelicht.
June 23, 2011
This is a story about growth and self discovery, reminding the reader that teens aren’t the only ones figuring out who they are. When Andrea’s long-time boyfriend leaves she is suddenly alone…and lost. She wallows in her heartbreak and along the way realizes that she doesn’t know who she is anymore. She sets out on a plan to win her boyfriend back by becoming the opposite of who she was with him.
Along the way she truly discovers herself and this is such a wonderful transformation to witness. It wasn’t easy, nor was it without tears. She struggled with her decisions and made a few wrong moves but she puts herself out there in a quest to find herself. I loved how daring she forces herself to be – jumping into conversations with strangers on the subway, joining a multitude of hobby classes and picking up a piece of her she left in band class in high school.
I think everyone has wanted to do something as exotic as this – doing exactly the opposite of what you would normally do. Most of us don’t have the means or opportunity to shelve our responsibilities, spouses, children and the other many items relying on us to be our normal selves. I lived vicariously through Andrea as she went through this journey - sending her encouragement when she was nervous and yelling at her for her mistakes.
A story of romance, of self-discovery and of new beginnings, this is a wonderful book full of hope.
Along the way she truly discovers herself and this is such a wonderful transformation to witness. It wasn’t easy, nor was it without tears. She struggled with her decisions and made a few wrong moves but she puts herself out there in a quest to find herself. I loved how daring she forces herself to be – jumping into conversations with strangers on the subway, joining a multitude of hobby classes and picking up a piece of her she left in band class in high school.
I think everyone has wanted to do something as exotic as this – doing exactly the opposite of what you would normally do. Most of us don’t have the means or opportunity to shelve our responsibilities, spouses, children and the other many items relying on us to be our normal selves. I lived vicariously through Andrea as she went through this journey - sending her encouragement when she was nervous and yelling at her for her mistakes.
A story of romance, of self-discovery and of new beginnings, this is a wonderful book full of hope.
June 23, 2011
Another fabulous book from an author that has certainly captured my imagination and one I hope to continue to enjoy. She chooses subjects and heroines that speak to the contemporary consciousness and which resonate as so real with problems and connections that are real. Andrea is such a heroine--a woman who has been in a relationship with one man for fourteen years, nearly half of her life, and who has now been soundly "dumped." Trying to move on was nearly impossible but as she worked through her grief she began to create strategies for re-claiming a life that has been subjugated almost entirely to the likes and dislikes of her ex. In so doing she not only re-discovered talents, hobbies, the joy of being with people, social skills that had lain dormant for years, but she began to re-discover herself. Even when she began working with a man who may or may not turn out to be "the one," she was learning to listen to her instincts, to respect her own judgment, to perceive others accurately, and to understand and respect her own needs. It is a stellar piece of fiction literature and one that should be read by every thinking woman. Even as Andrea works through her life lessons, she stands as an icon for contemporary women who are learning that she doesn't need a man to complete her life. If she chooses a relationship it is because it is right for her at that time in her life. Just a splendid read and one I can't recommend highly enough.
September 20, 2011
If you haven't read a book by Heather Wardell yet, you need to. I absolutely adored A Life That Fits, and that's not only because the main character has the same name as I do.
Heather's characters are remarkably real, with normal problems and normal existences. When you read one of Heather's books you feel like the characters are your friends, and Andrea is no different in A Life That Fits.
Everything is falling apart for for her, when her boyfriend of 14 years decides he wants out. I think Andrea behaves the way most people who are dumped but still feel that they are in love with the ex act. She does what she thinks would get her ex back with her. In the process she discovers herself, as well as interests that help her grow as a person.
She makes a lot of changes but things don't completely go swimmingly for her. She has co-worker that is a backstabber...her ex comes back..just as she might be having feelings for someone else.
I have to say the whole time Alex re-entered the picture I screamed at Andrea to ditch his sorry butt. As we learned about his cheating and the numerous women he went through after the breakup, I couldn't like him at all, and I couldn't believe Andrea would want him back in her life, especially with her growing feelings for Loren. Now he was a guy I could really love.
If you are up for a read about "real people" check out A Life That Fits or any of Heather's other books!
Heather's characters are remarkably real, with normal problems and normal existences. When you read one of Heather's books you feel like the characters are your friends, and Andrea is no different in A Life That Fits.
Everything is falling apart for for her, when her boyfriend of 14 years decides he wants out. I think Andrea behaves the way most people who are dumped but still feel that they are in love with the ex act. She does what she thinks would get her ex back with her. In the process she discovers herself, as well as interests that help her grow as a person.
She makes a lot of changes but things don't completely go swimmingly for her. She has co-worker that is a backstabber...her ex comes back..just as she might be having feelings for someone else.
I have to say the whole time Alex re-entered the picture I screamed at Andrea to ditch his sorry butt. As we learned about his cheating and the numerous women he went through after the breakup, I couldn't like him at all, and I couldn't believe Andrea would want him back in her life, especially with her growing feelings for Loren. Now he was a guy I could really love.
If you are up for a read about "real people" check out A Life That Fits or any of Heather's other books!
October 19, 2011
When I read the synopsis, I knew there can only be one scenarios when I finish. I would love it or hate it. I am thrilled to say it's the former. I love it.
It's not easy letting go of someone, that you love no matter what period of time you have spent with them. It's harder if it's almost half of your life. So when Andrea takes it upon herself to change herself in order to get back her ex, and I completely get it.
I loved how Andrea grows into an adult due to actions to revers things. She was brave, sticking to what she wanted to do no matter what was her obstacle. She makes a lot of friends a social life outside her home that she never knew could co-exist. Andrea's willingness to try something new and sometimes adventurous was refreshing.
It took me a while before I could get started after I got the book. But when I started it again yesterday, I just couldn't put it down till I finished. The constant nagging in my head, what will happen in the end? Andrea get Alex back or does she fall for the cute guy in her office.
Heather Wardell brings the wonderful characters from her books to life through her writing and make them feel very realistic. And I am happy to say she is becoming one of my favorite author.
It's not easy letting go of someone, that you love no matter what period of time you have spent with them. It's harder if it's almost half of your life. So when Andrea takes it upon herself to change herself in order to get back her ex, and I completely get it.
I loved how Andrea grows into an adult due to actions to revers things. She was brave, sticking to what she wanted to do no matter what was her obstacle. She makes a lot of friends a social life outside her home that she never knew could co-exist. Andrea's willingness to try something new and sometimes adventurous was refreshing.
It took me a while before I could get started after I got the book. But when I started it again yesterday, I just couldn't put it down till I finished. The constant nagging in my head, what will happen in the end? Andrea get Alex back or does she fall for the cute guy in her office.
Heather Wardell brings the wonderful characters from her books to life through her writing and make them feel very realistic. And I am happy to say she is becoming one of my favorite author.
November 2, 2011
When Andrea returns home from a business trip, she is sure her boyfriend of fourteen years, Alex, is about to propose. Imagine her surprise when instead of diamond ring she gets her heartbroken. Alex has found someone else, and promptly moves out of their shared home. Andrea is devastated, in shock, and can only think of ways to get Alex back. She doesn’t care that he cheated––she just wants her first love back.
A Life That Fits is another superb novel from Heather Wardell. I didn’t want to give too much away in the synopsis, so I cut myself off short. But let me tell you––there were more than a few times that I gasped while reading. I just love the plot twists that are in there! Wardell shows off her writing and character development skills yet again, especially with her heroine. It could have been easy to view Andrea as a weak, pathetic woman who will gladly take her cheating boyfriend back, but that’s wasn’t how I felt at all. I understood Andrea’s pain and confusion, and even her plan to reinvent herself to try to get Alex back. It didn’t surprise the minute I closed this book that I knew I would give it 5 stars. Keep them coming Heather!
A Life That Fits is another superb novel from Heather Wardell. I didn’t want to give too much away in the synopsis, so I cut myself off short. But let me tell you––there were more than a few times that I gasped while reading. I just love the plot twists that are in there! Wardell shows off her writing and character development skills yet again, especially with her heroine. It could have been easy to view Andrea as a weak, pathetic woman who will gladly take her cheating boyfriend back, but that’s wasn’t how I felt at all. I understood Andrea’s pain and confusion, and even her plan to reinvent herself to try to get Alex back. It didn’t surprise the minute I closed this book that I knew I would give it 5 stars. Keep them coming Heather!
January 15, 2021
Heather Wardell is my "go to" author when I need a light, chick-lit read that isn't overly sappy and has some substance to it.
The main character, Andrea, has been with Alex for 14 years...half of her 28 years and all of her adult life. When Alex dumps her without forewarning, Andrea's life is turned upside down. She soon realizes that she based her entire life on what Alex likes and wants and never really developed an identity of her own, despite being well educated. While this often made me want to shake Andrea out of pure frustration, it makes complete sense given she was with him during her impressionable teen years. As a way of pulling herself together and hopefully win Alex back, Andrea decides to become the opposite of who she was by trying a whole bunch of different things.
Throughout the course of this journey, Andrea learns a lot about herself, who she wants to be and finally, who she wants to be with.
Interesting storyline that you can read at face value, or you can use to look closer at who you've become and or want to become.
The main character, Andrea, has been with Alex for 14 years...half of her 28 years and all of her adult life. When Alex dumps her without forewarning, Andrea's life is turned upside down. She soon realizes that she based her entire life on what Alex likes and wants and never really developed an identity of her own, despite being well educated. While this often made me want to shake Andrea out of pure frustration, it makes complete sense given she was with him during her impressionable teen years. As a way of pulling herself together and hopefully win Alex back, Andrea decides to become the opposite of who she was by trying a whole bunch of different things.
Throughout the course of this journey, Andrea learns a lot about herself, who she wants to be and finally, who she wants to be with.
Interesting storyline that you can read at face value, or you can use to look closer at who you've become and or want to become.
June 17, 2020
3.5 stars
This book have so many telling-not-showing moments that usually annoy me. I feel like reading Andrea's thoughts or her diary to be honest but surprisingly this time, i don't hate it.
Andrea seems uptight at first, but as the story progress and with her reversal project, she slowly loosen up; especially after she move to the new job. And although i don't like how she weakly handle that asshole idiot Alex and Tina, i do like how she challenge herself to new things and experiences (but i say it just weird she seems perfect in doing almost all of it, from that knit club to laser tag which earn her 'Sniper' nickname *roll eyes* or maybe she just lucky met very supportive person like George.)
Loren, whom i picture somehow like Alias' Greg Grunberg or Mark Ruffalo, minus the aquamarine eyes lol *sigh* probably the sweetest fictional male character i have ever read. He patient, understanding, supportive and too perfect to exist >.<. Love him.
The rest of the story was okay, the supporting characters are mostly nice.
This book have so many telling-not-showing moments that usually annoy me. I feel like reading Andrea's thoughts or her diary to be honest but surprisingly this time, i don't hate it.
Andrea seems uptight at first, but as the story progress and with her reversal project, she slowly loosen up; especially after she move to the new job. And although i don't like how she weakly handle that asshole idiot Alex and Tina, i do like how she challenge herself to new things and experiences (but i say it just weird she seems perfect in doing almost all of it, from that knit club to laser tag which earn her 'Sniper' nickname *roll eyes* or maybe she just lucky met very supportive person like George.)
Loren, whom i picture somehow like Alias' Greg Grunberg or Mark Ruffalo, minus the aquamarine eyes lol *sigh* probably the sweetest fictional male character i have ever read. He patient, understanding, supportive and too perfect to exist >.<. Love him.
The rest of the story was okay, the supporting characters are mostly nice.
August 31, 2011
Heather Wardell is dropping by Writer’s Corner for her latest book A Life That Fits.
Synopsis:
Andrea returns from a business trip to shocking news. Her boyfriend of fourteen years Alex breaks up with her rather than proposing. Andrea goes into a deep depression wondering what she will do without Alex. She is unable to work and unaware of the recent events at the office. Andrea realizes that she needs to do something for herself. The reversal project becomes her goal. What changes will she make? What will she learn from these changes?
My Thoughts
I thought the book was a little slow in the beginning. I found myself interested in what Andrea would do next in the reversal project. I also loved how Andrea’s character evolved and what she learned from her experiences. I liked this book and look forward to reading more by this author. I hope you all will check out her book.
Synopsis:
Andrea returns from a business trip to shocking news. Her boyfriend of fourteen years Alex breaks up with her rather than proposing. Andrea goes into a deep depression wondering what she will do without Alex. She is unable to work and unaware of the recent events at the office. Andrea realizes that she needs to do something for herself. The reversal project becomes her goal. What changes will she make? What will she learn from these changes?
My Thoughts
I thought the book was a little slow in the beginning. I found myself interested in what Andrea would do next in the reversal project. I also loved how Andrea’s character evolved and what she learned from her experiences. I liked this book and look forward to reading more by this author. I hope you all will check out her book.
September 8, 2011
I got this book for $.99 for my Kindle, and I'm glad it only cost $.99. It wasn't bad, just lacking heart and the main character Andrea was a bit whiney for my taste.
The book starts out with her being dumped by her boyfriend and then for many chapters she proceeds to cry, and even when things begin to look up in her life, she's still crying about something or another.
Andrea decides to change her life by creating a "reversing project" where she does the opposite of what the old Andrea would have done....for everything. I felt it got a little tedious and absurd at times.
While the book did perk up for a bit, I couldn't get past the crying and self doubt of the main character. Her reversing project was cute in the beginning but like the crying it got old. And I felt for a book set in a city as large as Toronto the constant overlap of characters having already known each other, or seen each other was odd and forced.
Overall not a bad book, just not a really great read.
The book starts out with her being dumped by her boyfriend and then for many chapters she proceeds to cry, and even when things begin to look up in her life, she's still crying about something or another.
Andrea decides to change her life by creating a "reversing project" where she does the opposite of what the old Andrea would have done....for everything. I felt it got a little tedious and absurd at times.
While the book did perk up for a bit, I couldn't get past the crying and self doubt of the main character. Her reversing project was cute in the beginning but like the crying it got old. And I felt for a book set in a city as large as Toronto the constant overlap of characters having already known each other, or seen each other was odd and forced.
Overall not a bad book, just not a really great read.
November 29, 2011
I have read most of Heather Wardell's book and enjoy her writing style. The Characters are ones that the readers can identify with. Can't wait to read her newest book.
Twenty-eight-year-old Andrea returns home from a business trip to find Alex, her boyfriend of fourteen years, nervously waiting for her. Assuming he's finally going to propose, Andrea's instead horrified to learn he's been cheating on her and is leaving to be with the other woman, who he calls Andrea's opposite.
At first Andrea's paralyzed by shock and sadness, but the business analyst soon forms a plan: change every last detail of her life and become her opposite so Alex will come back to her.
It's a challenge at first, but soon Andrea's loving the changes she's making, the new activities she's doing, and the new people in her life. But will she change enough to get Alex back? And if she does, will he fit into the wonderful new life she's creating for herself?
Twenty-eight-year-old Andrea returns home from a business trip to find Alex, her boyfriend of fourteen years, nervously waiting for her. Assuming he's finally going to propose, Andrea's instead horrified to learn he's been cheating on her and is leaving to be with the other woman, who he calls Andrea's opposite.
At first Andrea's paralyzed by shock and sadness, but the business analyst soon forms a plan: change every last detail of her life and become her opposite so Alex will come back to her.
It's a challenge at first, but soon Andrea's loving the changes she's making, the new activities she's doing, and the new people in her life. But will she change enough to get Alex back? And if she does, will he fit into the wonderful new life she's creating for herself?
January 25, 2014
Every time I finish a book by Heather Wardell, I tell myself "that was my favorite of all her books." Then I go back and read my other reviews and realize that I've written that about every single one of her book. Haha. So you can probably guess where I'm going with this.
A Life That Fits was the first book I ever read by Heather Wardell, but I just now realized that I never reviewed it. #majorfail. BUT I can tell you that the second I finished reading it, I knew I had to read more. So I did. I picked up the first book she wrote and didn't stop until I read all of them. And then I sat there patiently (or maybe not really) checking her Facebook page for updates as to when the next book was coming out.
A Life That Fits was amazing. Great plot. Relatable characters. Captivating message.
A Life That Fits was the first book I ever read by Heather Wardell, but I just now realized that I never reviewed it. #majorfail. BUT I can tell you that the second I finished reading it, I knew I had to read more. So I did. I picked up the first book she wrote and didn't stop until I read all of them. And then I sat there patiently (or maybe not really) checking her Facebook page for updates as to when the next book was coming out.
A Life That Fits was amazing. Great plot. Relatable characters. Captivating message.
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