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The Greatest Love Story Ever Told
YOU WILL CRY WHEN YOU READ THIS!
The funniest, happiest, most emotional romantic comedy you will ever read. With a small twist!
What’s the small twist? You’ll have to read it to find out. But let’s just say, you’ve never read anything like this before.
WARNING: Be prepared for many happy tears. And a lot of laughter.
For fans of:
Jojo Moyes, Cecelia Ahern, Sophie Kinsella, Nick Hornby and Richard Osman.
FROM THE 1 MILLION COPY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
The funniest, happiest, most emotional romantic comedy you will ever read. With a small twist!
What’s the small twist? You’ll have to read it to find out. But let’s just say, you’ve never read anything like this before.
WARNING: Be prepared for many happy tears. And a lot of laughter.
For fans of:
Jojo Moyes, Cecelia Ahern, Sophie Kinsella, Nick Hornby and Richard Osman.
FROM THE 1 MILLION COPY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
378 pages, Paperback
Published March 16, 2023
387 people are currently reading
1154 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
November 2, 2025
My Reviews Can Also Be Found On:
The Book Review Crew Blog
I don't even know where to start with this review except to say it's my favourite read of the year. I am not going to get into the plot as it is best to go into this one blind, you will notice that the blurb is ambiguous. I will say that everything in the blurb and on the cover is completely true. This book IS the greatest love story ever told, it is heartwarming, a romantic comedy and it did make me cry.
I loved the characters between these pages so much. There was a lot of growth, learning, understanding and love between them...I so enjoyed watching their relationships develop. The characters are very diverse but not in a punch-you-in-the-face kind of way, they just are. You'll find no stereotypes here.
If you're looking for a book about pure love that is written with humour and heart but also very dramatic and real then this is the book for you. This is not your typical chick-lit romantic comedy but it is a very special book. I am going to be shouting from the rooftops about this one. I don't know why it isn't all over the bookverse, this review does not do the book justice.
I have to give a special shout-out to two of my Goodreads friends. If it wasn't for me reading Rosh and Bharath's reviews I never would have come across this gem. Click their names to check out the reviews. Theirs are much better than mine.
This title is currently available for purchase.
The Book Review Crew Blog
I don't even know where to start with this review except to say it's my favourite read of the year. I am not going to get into the plot as it is best to go into this one blind, you will notice that the blurb is ambiguous. I will say that everything in the blurb and on the cover is completely true. This book IS the greatest love story ever told, it is heartwarming, a romantic comedy and it did make me cry.
I loved the characters between these pages so much. There was a lot of growth, learning, understanding and love between them...I so enjoyed watching their relationships develop. The characters are very diverse but not in a punch-you-in-the-face kind of way, they just are. You'll find no stereotypes here.
If you're looking for a book about pure love that is written with humour and heart but also very dramatic and real then this is the book for you. This is not your typical chick-lit romantic comedy but it is a very special book. I am going to be shouting from the rooftops about this one. I don't know why it isn't all over the bookverse, this review does not do the book justice.
I have to give a special shout-out to two of my Goodreads friends. If it wasn't for me reading Rosh and Bharath's reviews I never would have come across this gem. Click their names to check out the reviews. Theirs are much better than mine.
This title is currently available for purchase.
March 25, 2025
In a Nutshell: The greatest, sweetest, cutest, saddest, “awesome-est” love story ever told! I am in luvvvvvv! PSA – This isn't the kind of romcom you think it is - and that is the twist.
Story Synopsis:
Now, the problem is that without a synopsis, I am having a tough time writing my usual detailed Bookish Yays and Nays. So with such a hazy “synopsis”, all you will get is equally fuzzy reasons. Hopefully, they will be enough to convince you.
Bookish Yays:
😍 Callum. I can’t and won’t tell you who Callum is. But just know, he deserves one entire YAY!
😍 The plot. Guessable, and yet, so very original!
😍 The blurb says: ‘YOU WILL CRY WHEN YOU READ THIS!’ I hardly ever cry while reading, so I took this claim with a huge pinch of salt. Boy, was I wrong! I could have filled buckets with my tears. (Okay, not buckets. But at least half a cup for sure!)
😍 Not all the above tears were sad ones. If you had seen me while reading this book, you would have seen the big goofy grin on my face during every scene that wasn’t tear-inducing. So basically, I was either grinning or sobbing all the way. More grinning than sobbing – don’t worry!
😍 The blurb also says, ‘The funniest, happiest, most emotional romantic comedy you will ever read. With a small twist!’ You are going to love the twist, my friends!
😍 Two first-person perspectives, both written brilliantly and with a distinct voice that doesn’t feel artificial or confusing. TBH, the younger of the two characters made me question a part of the writing choice (connected to the use of direct speech in his perspective.) Then I recollected a person I know who is of the same age and speaks in exactly the same roundabout, never-ending, loopy way. So yes, both povs sound authentic.
😍 Even beyond the two main characters, the secondary characters speak and act their age. Almost all of them are loveable. One seems a grumpy grinch, but even his feelings are justified rather than criticised by the plot.
😍 There’s emotional, and there’s soppy. While this book strays randomly on either side of the fence, it keeps things mostly balanced. I never felt like it was milking emotions on purpose. ‘Awwww’-inducing soppy is always welcome to me.
😍 The characters are not just diverse, but also smash stereotypes in myriad ways. Every single character shatters some or the other hackneyed cliché about their usual image in fictional depiction.
😍 Love the role books play in the story.
😍 There’s a small element of magical realism as well. Tiny enough as to not bother those readers who don’t like magical realism, but appealing enough for those who do.
😍 So many wonderful themes covered without going over the top: racism, bullying, gender discrimination, (minor) homophobia, wealth bias,… All handled well.
😍 The cover is simple yet amazing, and fits the book on many levels. (Except for the ‘romantic comedy’ line, which might lead you to assume that this is a typical chick lit work.) It also offers you a clue of what’s to come, but hopefully, you’ll be better prepared for it.
Bookish Nays:
Zilch!
Some of you might reject this book thinking that it is a typical romance or romcom novel. So let me just say: it is a story not of romance but of love. A love between a couple that you simply wouldn’t be able to imagine. In other words, this book isn’t just for romance fans.
Also, the ‘romantic comedy’ claim is somewhat incorrect. While the book has elements of romance as well as plenty of comedy, it is quite dramatic as well, and not a light, fluffy read like most romcoms are. Be prepared for an emotional experience interspersed with light-hearted moments.
The author had submitted this manuscript to many publishers last year, and all of them rejected it. She finally decided to self-publish this story (for which I thank her ardently.) This just goes to prove two things:
- Big publishers don’t necessarily know what works.
- There are many hidden indie gems if you are willing to give them a try.
I hope you have figured out my recommendation by now. If not, here it comes:
Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Just. Read. This. Book!
If you don’t read and like this book, you can’t be friends with me anymore.
Just kidding.
(Or am I? You can try and see what happens! 😉)
4.75 stars, which is the highest I go for contemporary adult fiction.
My thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and author Suzy K Quinn for a complimentary copy of “The Greatest Love Story Ever Told. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The book is available for free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
PS: READ THE BOOK! (YES, I AM YELLING!)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Story Synopsis:
If you see the blurb on Goodreads and Amazon, you will notice that the plot has been kept absolutely vague. So if the author wants you to discover the story for yourself, who am I to spill the beans and spoil the fun? No synopsis this time. My lips are sealed.
Now, the problem is that without a synopsis, I am having a tough time writing my usual detailed Bookish Yays and Nays. So with such a hazy “synopsis”, all you will get is equally fuzzy reasons. Hopefully, they will be enough to convince you.
Bookish Yays:
😍 Callum. I can’t and won’t tell you who Callum is. But just know, he deserves one entire YAY!
😍 The plot. Guessable, and yet, so very original!
😍 The blurb says: ‘YOU WILL CRY WHEN YOU READ THIS!’ I hardly ever cry while reading, so I took this claim with a huge pinch of salt. Boy, was I wrong! I could have filled buckets with my tears. (Okay, not buckets. But at least half a cup for sure!)
😍 Not all the above tears were sad ones. If you had seen me while reading this book, you would have seen the big goofy grin on my face during every scene that wasn’t tear-inducing. So basically, I was either grinning or sobbing all the way. More grinning than sobbing – don’t worry!
😍 The blurb also says, ‘The funniest, happiest, most emotional romantic comedy you will ever read. With a small twist!’ You are going to love the twist, my friends!
😍 Two first-person perspectives, both written brilliantly and with a distinct voice that doesn’t feel artificial or confusing. TBH, the younger of the two characters made me question a part of the writing choice (connected to the use of direct speech in his perspective.) Then I recollected a person I know who is of the same age and speaks in exactly the same roundabout, never-ending, loopy way. So yes, both povs sound authentic.
😍 Even beyond the two main characters, the secondary characters speak and act their age. Almost all of them are loveable. One seems a grumpy grinch, but even his feelings are justified rather than criticised by the plot.
😍 There’s emotional, and there’s soppy. While this book strays randomly on either side of the fence, it keeps things mostly balanced. I never felt like it was milking emotions on purpose. ‘Awwww’-inducing soppy is always welcome to me.
😍 The characters are not just diverse, but also smash stereotypes in myriad ways. Every single character shatters some or the other hackneyed cliché about their usual image in fictional depiction.
😍 Love the role books play in the story.
😍 There’s a small element of magical realism as well. Tiny enough as to not bother those readers who don’t like magical realism, but appealing enough for those who do.
😍 So many wonderful themes covered without going over the top: racism, bullying, gender discrimination, (minor) homophobia, wealth bias,… All handled well.
😍 The cover is simple yet amazing, and fits the book on many levels. (Except for the ‘romantic comedy’ line, which might lead you to assume that this is a typical chick lit work.) It also offers you a clue of what’s to come, but hopefully, you’ll be better prepared for it.
Bookish Nays:
Zilch!
Some of you might reject this book thinking that it is a typical romance or romcom novel. So let me just say: it is a story not of romance but of love. A love between a couple that you simply wouldn’t be able to imagine. In other words, this book isn’t just for romance fans.
Also, the ‘romantic comedy’ claim is somewhat incorrect. While the book has elements of romance as well as plenty of comedy, it is quite dramatic as well, and not a light, fluffy read like most romcoms are. Be prepared for an emotional experience interspersed with light-hearted moments.
The author had submitted this manuscript to many publishers last year, and all of them rejected it. She finally decided to self-publish this story (for which I thank her ardently.) This just goes to prove two things:
- Big publishers don’t necessarily know what works.
- There are many hidden indie gems if you are willing to give them a try.
I hope you have figured out my recommendation by now. If not, here it comes:
Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Read this book. Just. Read. This. Book!
If you don’t read and like this book, you can’t be friends with me anymore.
Just kidding.
(Or am I? You can try and see what happens! 😉)
4.75 stars, which is the highest I go for contemporary adult fiction.
My thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and author Suzy K Quinn for a complimentary copy of “The Greatest Love Story Ever Told. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The book is available for free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
PS: READ THE BOOK! (YES, I AM YELLING!)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
December 21, 2023
Either I'm becoming an easy touch, or I have gotten better at picking books I'll like. 📚
Warning: This book will make you smile, cry, then smile again.
At its heart, it's a Christmas story. I guess that's why there's a Christmas angel. It's tradition!
Let it be known that I'm expecting/demanding sequels [note plural] with Cullum, Judge Dred, and the lot!
Question: Are Juliette and Daisy a link to Suzy K Quinn's Bad Mothers series?
Warning: This book will make you smile, cry, then smile again.
At its heart, it's a Christmas story. I guess that's why there's a Christmas angel. It's tradition!
Let it be known that I'm expecting/demanding sequels [note plural] with Cullum, Judge Dred, and the lot!
Question: Are Juliette and Daisy a link to Suzy K Quinn's Bad Mothers series?
October 7, 2023
The blurb for this book on goodreads and amazon is especially vague (also potentially misleading to call it a romantic comedy) as my friend Rosh points out. I do not think such a vague blurb is a very smart idea though, especially since this is a refreshingly original love story, for the most part.
Michael Lamb has undertaken a research project where he hopes to provide insights on relationships in select social & economic spheres. Michael personally is not in a great place himself, his relationship with Ifeoma (who is a nurse) has broken. He is suggested to speak to Callum in Great Oakley primary school and the interaction is facilitated by a friendly research assistant Miss Hussain. Miss Hussain mentions that Callum’s friendship with Angel Rain is something Dr Lamb would find very interesting & insightful. As Michael commences his first session, he is convinced he has made a mistake; Callum launches into a long story about some tadpoles. As he reluctantly continues his sessions, he is fascinated at the story Callum tells him, and realizes that there is a lot he can learn from the interactions for himself as well.
The characters are absolutely loveable, especially Callum & Angel Rain. The others in the story – Dr Lamb, Nurse Ifeoma, Miss Hussain, Bethany, Callum’s mom and grandfather, Angel Rain’s parents, Callum’s cousin John Boy, Angel Rain’s caretaker Elodie, and Callum’s tadpoles all play stellar roles as well. The unfiltered thoughts and dialogues of Callum, his resolve & loyalty, as also the maturity, charm & strength of Angel Rain’s character are the highlights of the story. There is a lot to smile, laugh, cry, ponder and wonder about. In many ways this story tells us what we lose as we grow up – conditioning takes a toll, making us far less real than we could be. In its charming understated style, the book fleetingly touches many themes – authenticity, purpose, inclusion, loyalty, perseverance, and inner strength among others.
As we hear from the words of Callum towards the end of the story, there are more than one love stories in the book and one of them is certainly a worthy contender for being the greatest love story ever told. The other love story is also sweet but has a lame theatrical finish. This is the most charming book I have read this year.
I took up this book based on my friend Rosh’s exceptional review and strong endorsement. Do read her review – it is easy to find as with all her reviews, right at the top! Unlike her, I consider the blurb poorly written though – I would have skipped past this book if not for her review, and I dare say there would be at least a few others like me.
This book is on Kindle Unlimited.
My rating: 4.75 / 5.
Michael Lamb has undertaken a research project where he hopes to provide insights on relationships in select social & economic spheres. Michael personally is not in a great place himself, his relationship with Ifeoma (who is a nurse) has broken. He is suggested to speak to Callum in Great Oakley primary school and the interaction is facilitated by a friendly research assistant Miss Hussain. Miss Hussain mentions that Callum’s friendship with Angel Rain is something Dr Lamb would find very interesting & insightful. As Michael commences his first session, he is convinced he has made a mistake; Callum launches into a long story about some tadpoles. As he reluctantly continues his sessions, he is fascinated at the story Callum tells him, and realizes that there is a lot he can learn from the interactions for himself as well.
The characters are absolutely loveable, especially Callum & Angel Rain. The others in the story – Dr Lamb, Nurse Ifeoma, Miss Hussain, Bethany, Callum’s mom and grandfather, Angel Rain’s parents, Callum’s cousin John Boy, Angel Rain’s caretaker Elodie, and Callum’s tadpoles all play stellar roles as well. The unfiltered thoughts and dialogues of Callum, his resolve & loyalty, as also the maturity, charm & strength of Angel Rain’s character are the highlights of the story. There is a lot to smile, laugh, cry, ponder and wonder about. In many ways this story tells us what we lose as we grow up – conditioning takes a toll, making us far less real than we could be. In its charming understated style, the book fleetingly touches many themes – authenticity, purpose, inclusion, loyalty, perseverance, and inner strength among others.
As we hear from the words of Callum towards the end of the story, there are more than one love stories in the book and one of them is certainly a worthy contender for being the greatest love story ever told. The other love story is also sweet but has a lame theatrical finish. This is the most charming book I have read this year.
I took up this book based on my friend Rosh’s exceptional review and strong endorsement. Do read her review – it is easy to find as with all her reviews, right at the top! Unlike her, I consider the blurb poorly written though – I would have skipped past this book if not for her review, and I dare say there would be at least a few others like me.
This book is on Kindle Unlimited.
My rating: 4.75 / 5.
January 15, 2024
This is probably one of the most heartwarming and endearing books I’ve read; certainly this year, maybe ever.
It is a book about hearts. A boy has so much heart, his passion is mistaken for hoodlumism. A man has frozen his heart to prevent it being broken. And a girl who literally has a failing heart. When their lives intersect, they are each forever changed, because ‘you should never regret loving something’.
This book will warm your heart as well as break it, but you won’t regret reading it.
It is a book about hearts. A boy has so much heart, his passion is mistaken for hoodlumism. A man has frozen his heart to prevent it being broken. And a girl who literally has a failing heart. When their lives intersect, they are each forever changed, because ‘you should never regret loving something’.
This book will warm your heart as well as break it, but you won’t regret reading it.
May 15, 2024
In this book an older man is interviewing a young boy as part of research for a university. He is trying to find out how young boys treat young girls.
Because a lot of the story is told from a young boy’s point of view, it can feel very slow at times. I am so glad I did not quit, because the ending was so heartfelt and sad, but great too. What an amazing little boy.
I think this was a very unique story compared to other love stories and that was what kept me reading too. There’s really two love stories in this book, but I think it is also about finding friends and making your own family too.
Because a lot of the story is told from a young boy’s point of view, it can feel very slow at times. I am so glad I did not quit, because the ending was so heartfelt and sad, but great too. What an amazing little boy.
I think this was a very unique story compared to other love stories and that was what kept me reading too. There’s really two love stories in this book, but I think it is also about finding friends and making your own family too.
January 8, 2025
I finally found a romance book I loved! It’s been ages since I truly enjoyed a book in this genre. This isn’t your typical rom-com but it's also the best part—I wouldn’t change a thing about it!
I’m so glad I went into it without reading the synopsis
or know anything about the plot. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
The characters were brilliant. It's best to discover the characters as the story unfolds so I am not going to say much. While Callum and Michael are very different, they both learn from each other, which makes following their journeys throughout the book engaging.
It’s humorous, heartwarming, and charming, while also being dramatic.
I remember reading Rosh's review of this book and thinking, "This might just be the kind of rom-com I need." And it definitely was. If this review doesn���t convince you, be sure to check out Rosh’s review of The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m so glad I went into it without reading the synopsis
or know anything about the plot. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
The characters were brilliant. It's best to discover the characters as the story unfolds so I am not going to say much. While Callum and Michael are very different, they both learn from each other, which makes following their journeys throughout the book engaging.
It’s humorous, heartwarming, and charming, while also being dramatic.
I remember reading Rosh's review of this book and thinking, "This might just be the kind of rom-com I need." And it definitely was. If this review doesn���t convince you, be sure to check out Rosh’s review of The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 9, 2023
4.55 / 5
I would never in a million years pick up a book described as:
Romance
Contemporary
Chick Lit
OR
Emotional romantic comedy
But my GR friend Rosh wrote a brilliant review and made me want to read this book. I am so glad she did because I LOVE this book and the off-beat characters. I don’t know how I’m going to write a proper review without giving away the heart of the story, but I’ll have to try.
Dr. Michael Lamb is involved in a research project requiring him to interview boys from a disadvantaged background. Michael was just dumped by his girlfriend and has cut himself off from the world and is now interested in research into ‘toxic masculinity’. Michael needs to find a reason to excuse his behavior that made the woman he loves leave him.
Nine year old Callum Duffy is considered by his school as such a boy. He certainly is from what one would consider a ‘disadvantaged background’. Callum is not a very good student, he doesn’t like reading and can be disruptive in class. So, Callum becomes Michael’s subject.
Callum gets a gash on his head requiring his family to take him to the hospital ER. While waiting in the hospital Callum happens to meet another patient of his own age, Angel Rain, and they are on the way to forming a friendship, except that Angel Rain’s parents are a bit upper crust and don’t agree with their daughter being friends with a boy like Callum.
But as you know true love always finds a way and so Callum and Angel Rain find a way to be friends and not just friends, but very, very special friends.
I still do not agree that this book is either a Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, OR, Emotional romantic comedy.
It is a book about feelings, it is a book about love (not romance) and it is a book that will tug at your heart strings. I found this book to be an Ode to Joy!
I would never in a million years pick up a book described as:
Romance
Contemporary
Chick Lit
OR
Emotional romantic comedy
But my GR friend Rosh wrote a brilliant review and made me want to read this book. I am so glad she did because I LOVE this book and the off-beat characters. I don’t know how I’m going to write a proper review without giving away the heart of the story, but I’ll have to try.
Dr. Michael Lamb is involved in a research project requiring him to interview boys from a disadvantaged background. Michael was just dumped by his girlfriend and has cut himself off from the world and is now interested in research into ‘toxic masculinity’. Michael needs to find a reason to excuse his behavior that made the woman he loves leave him.
Nine year old Callum Duffy is considered by his school as such a boy. He certainly is from what one would consider a ‘disadvantaged background’. Callum is not a very good student, he doesn’t like reading and can be disruptive in class. So, Callum becomes Michael’s subject.
Callum gets a gash on his head requiring his family to take him to the hospital ER. While waiting in the hospital Callum happens to meet another patient of his own age, Angel Rain, and they are on the way to forming a friendship, except that Angel Rain’s parents are a bit upper crust and don’t agree with their daughter being friends with a boy like Callum.
But as you know true love always finds a way and so Callum and Angel Rain find a way to be friends and not just friends, but very, very special friends.
I still do not agree that this book is either a Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, OR, Emotional romantic comedy.
It is a book about feelings, it is a book about love (not romance) and it is a book that will tug at your heart strings. I found this book to be an Ode to Joy!
September 2, 2023
I was completely underwhelmed by this book. Really not my cup of tea, but I blame the reviews and blurb all being very coy so I did not know what to expect from plot or characters. In fact the blurb at the time of writing is "YOU WILL CRY WHEN YOU READ THIS!" (nope. If I had believed in the characters maybe... ) and "The funniest, happiest, most emotional romantic comedy you will ever read. With a small twist! What’s the small twist? You’ll have to read it to find out. But let’s just say, you’ve never read anything like this before." I was promised a twist damn it, if anybody found it, let me know please. Maybe it was
But it seems to be part of a chick lit/women´s fiction series about a bigger than life working class family and this is about the 9 (?) year old boy on that family and his friendship (love) with a sick girl with a heart transplant, Heidi as a theme, while being studied by an eccentric Scrooge like researcher, who broke up with his pediatric nurse girlfriend, for a study"toxic masculinity". Spending time with the kid and following his "love" (they are 9?) story gives our Dr. Scrooge a change of heart, obviously. I kept reading it for the twist (and I did not find it). I also think the whole category of "women's fiction" often just does not click for me. This is also a bit on the same ballpark as The House in the Cerulean Sea though I did like that a lot better and its over-sweetness seemed a bit more natural to me.
If I had related to the characters I might have overlooked the predictability, but I never did, the children were incredibly unlikely children (dialogue from Callum and Angel Rain, and yes that is her name, verges on platitudes which would only sound likely from a middle aged or older person trying to pass on wisdom to younger people but they are talking to adults or each other). There is a humor through naiveté thing ongoing in Callum's perspective, which is really at odds with his insights on the very same page. Adult love story also did not work for me, sadly.
I am writing the review and details as public service, there were so few details before I decided to pick this up! Incidentally the author afterword is remarkable on its kind, not to my taste. In all, just not my cup of tea.
But it seems to be part of a chick lit/women´s fiction series about a bigger than life working class family and this is about the 9 (?) year old boy on that family and his friendship (love) with a sick girl with a heart transplant, Heidi as a theme, while being studied by an eccentric Scrooge like researcher, who broke up with his pediatric nurse girlfriend, for a study"toxic masculinity". Spending time with the kid and following his "love" (they are 9?) story gives our Dr. Scrooge a change of heart, obviously. I kept reading it for the twist (and I did not find it). I also think the whole category of "women's fiction" often just does not click for me. This is also a bit on the same ballpark as The House in the Cerulean Sea though I did like that a lot better and its over-sweetness seemed a bit more natural to me.
If I had related to the characters I might have overlooked the predictability, but I never did, the children were incredibly unlikely children (dialogue from Callum and Angel Rain, and yes that is her name, verges on platitudes which would only sound likely from a middle aged or older person trying to pass on wisdom to younger people but they are talking to adults or each other). There is a humor through naiveté thing ongoing in Callum's perspective, which is really at odds with his insights on the very same page. Adult love story also did not work for me, sadly.
I am writing the review and details as public service, there were so few details before I decided to pick this up! Incidentally the author afterword is remarkable on its kind, not to my taste. In all, just not my cup of tea.
November 19, 2023
I ♥️ this book. It is brilliantly written. The characters are loveable and eccentric but they feel real and relatable. The story is sweet and sad but uplifting. But the best bit of this book is the brilliant, dry, self deprecating British humour. To write and be funny is the ultimate skill in my book.
If you need something funny and heartwarming in your life this is the book for you. A perfect winter/Christmas read ♥️
If you need something funny and heartwarming in your life this is the book for you. A perfect winter/Christmas read ♥️
May 31, 2023
At first I didn’t think I was going to like this book. But, I read it in two days because it was so easy to get through.
Little Callum - what a sweet boy.
The relationship that formed with him and Michael was lovely.
This book shows that stigma is wrong and no one should be judged.
A cute and quick story.
Little Callum - what a sweet boy.
The relationship that formed with him and Michael was lovely.
This book shows that stigma is wrong and no one should be judged.
A cute and quick story.
July 3, 2023
This story is not what I was expecting, but given the synopsis is vague, everyone is bound to be surprised. I did not cry, but I rarely ever cry for books. And when I do, it's usually just some misty-eye stuff. Having said that, this was still a great book and I keep thinking about it at random times.
Callum and Angel Rain are such lovable characters! I don't want to say too much about them as to not spoil the story, but I originally thought Callum was a different age than he actually is, based on how he talks. His relationship with Angel Rain is everything! I also love how he has an impact on how Michael sees the world. The descriptions of people and places make everyone and everything really easy to visualize. However, I'm not going to provide casting as to not spoil things. I did picture Jamie Demetriou as Michael though. (That's not spoiling anything, I promise!)
My main concern is something I take issue with whenever there's a diary or journal in a novel: There should not be dialogue in the entries! While Callum is doing a verbal diary of sorts, he seems to recall every single conversation he's had. It just doesn't work for me. I had to get over that to enjoy the story as everything else about it was really good.
Overall, it's a sweet and heartwarming story that will stick with you long after you have finished. I recommend picking this up for something different. It's not your usual run-of-the-mill rom com.
Originally featured at Chick Lit Central.
Originally featured at Chick Lit Central.
December 27, 2023
A very different story
I went in thinking it is a typical romance book but I was pleasantly surprised by this book. One of my Goodreads friends suggested this. It is certainly not a love story one would imagine. But I am glad I picked it.
Micheal, Callum, and Angel stole the show. I loved the moving backstory of Dr. Michael and how he gave it an unusual twist when dealing with it. His approach is experimental and I appreciated that bit.
The young boy, Callum brought to light so many emotions an outwardly bad boy holds in. I think this book was more of a drama genre than romance. I felt it was a self discovery in parts as well. And that not all live stories are purely about romantic connections. So keep that in mind when reading it.
I was certainly amazed and found this a refreshing change from my regular ones. It definitely cleansed my reading palette!
I went in thinking it is a typical romance book but I was pleasantly surprised by this book. One of my Goodreads friends suggested this. It is certainly not a love story one would imagine. But I am glad I picked it.
Micheal, Callum, and Angel stole the show. I loved the moving backstory of Dr. Michael and how he gave it an unusual twist when dealing with it. His approach is experimental and I appreciated that bit.
The young boy, Callum brought to light so many emotions an outwardly bad boy holds in. I think this book was more of a drama genre than romance. I felt it was a self discovery in parts as well. And that not all live stories are purely about romantic connections. So keep that in mind when reading it.
I was certainly amazed and found this a refreshing change from my regular ones. It definitely cleansed my reading palette!
June 27, 2023
O my! This is a wonderful book. If I had not been reading to a deadline for this blog tour, I would have slowed down my reading so that I did not have to finish it so quickly. I would have loved to have kept reading this just a little bit longer.
If you would like to read more of my review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
If you would like to read more of my review please visit my blog at:
https://leftontheshelfbookblog.blogsp...
June 19, 2023
This was one amazing read! When I heard this book had been rejected numerous times by numerous publishers I was in shock, what book were these people reading??? This book is what I call a feast for the starving!
Michael is a researcher who is paired with 11 year old Callum, a young boy who is part of a dysfunctional family, if you saw him on the street, you would immediately think that he is nothing but trouble - he has that so called look about him - so you would undoubtedly cross the road to avoid him.
However, we soon see that Callum has rather a lot to teach Michael and this is where a beautiful story begins.
We have a little bit of everything here, there is humor and heartbreak, love and disappointment, but it all mixes together to make a great read for anybody of any age! This is definitely one to watch, and one that I feel we will be hearing more about in the book community in the future!
Note to those publishers who rejected the book - this is the one that got away!
Michael is a researcher who is paired with 11 year old Callum, a young boy who is part of a dysfunctional family, if you saw him on the street, you would immediately think that he is nothing but trouble - he has that so called look about him - so you would undoubtedly cross the road to avoid him.
However, we soon see that Callum has rather a lot to teach Michael and this is where a beautiful story begins.
We have a little bit of everything here, there is humor and heartbreak, love and disappointment, but it all mixes together to make a great read for anybody of any age! This is definitely one to watch, and one that I feel we will be hearing more about in the book community in the future!
Note to those publishers who rejected the book - this is the one that got away!
June 3, 2023
Started reading last night, didn’t stop, couldn’t stop. Best book I read in 2023, so far.
May 25, 2023
This is the best book I have read in ages! Fell in love with Callum and Angel Rain’s story. A definite must read!!
April 5, 2023
Me *scrolling through books to read: la la la la...
*Stops, sees a book called The Greatest Love Story Ever Told. You will cry when you read this!
Me: dear author, you're not the boss of me, you don't know me, you don't know where I've been! You know what? You're on! Challenge accepted.
*Starts reading.
.
.
.
Me: I see where you're going with this, but will it be enough to jumpstart my cold dead heart? Remains to be seen.
.
.
.
Me: Ok, I got misty eyed, but you did do something quite incredible, dear author. You have made me care for this little boy, who is the most precious, lovely, intelligent, sensitive, gentlemanly lil guy in the world, Callum must be protected at all costs. And if you knew me dear author, you'd know that's a big thing. Lol.
The humour was top notch, needed, and sprinkled throughout in the perfect way, loved it.
*Stops, sees a book called The Greatest Love Story Ever Told. You will cry when you read this!
Me: dear author, you're not the boss of me, you don't know me, you don't know where I've been! You know what? You're on! Challenge accepted.
*Starts reading.
.
.
.
Me: I see where you're going with this, but will it be enough to jumpstart my cold dead heart? Remains to be seen.
.
.
.
Me: Ok, I got misty eyed, but you did do something quite incredible, dear author. You have made me care for this little boy, who is the most precious, lovely, intelligent, sensitive, gentlemanly lil guy in the world, Callum must be protected at all costs. And if you knew me dear author, you'd know that's a big thing. Lol.
The humour was top notch, needed, and sprinkled throughout in the perfect way, loved it.
September 20, 2023
I had no idea what I was going to read about when I picked up this book. But I expected something really great, based on all the 5 stars and raving reviews. But what I read made me feel so disappointed. Where is the greatest love story here? Definitely not Michael and Ifeoma, while Callum and Angel Rain are children who knew each other for only a few months before they claimed to love each other.
First of all, I felt manipulated to get emotional attached to Callum and Angel Rain's story. But the words I read didn't touch me (maybe I have a cold heart?). It seems obvious that Michael would have a neurodivergent diagnosis. And again his love for Ifeoma is all tell, but no showing.
Overall, I didn’t get the purpose of this book. If Suzy Quinn wanted to share Callum’s story, there could have been another (better) way without including Michael. In all the transcripts from Callum's "interviews" and Michael’s extreme reluctance to influence his research object, they didn't seem to have any interaction, so their close friendship/relationship seemed to come out of nowhere!
Then, on Michael's research, why did he focus his research only on one kid? Based on his premise "Boys from disadvantaged backgrounds are exposed to a culture of toxic masculinity...", I'm not sure I'd consider Callum as "disadvantaged". Yes, he's not coming from a traditional family, but there was plenty of love and care while money didn't seem to be an issue. Furthermore, I really struggle to see which school would allow a kid (Callum) to skip full days of education to talk to an adult who is researching something that has nothing to do with the school?
I can't remember if Callum’s age is disclosed, but based on the books he says that he reads at school, I’d expect that he could not be older than 6/7 yo (Year 2). However, that doesn’t really seem to make sense given the maturity of his speech and his self awareness. The transcripts are really different from the way a kid would tell a story and at some point I even got confused when they mentioned that Callum had "written" on the tablet (and what’s the need to mention the brand of the tablet used?).
I enjoyed Suzy's writing style, but unfortunately the plot didn't convince me at all.
First of all, I felt manipulated to get emotional attached to Callum and Angel Rain's story. But the words I read didn't touch me (maybe I have a cold heart?). It seems obvious that Michael would have a neurodivergent diagnosis. And again his love for Ifeoma is all tell, but no showing.
Overall, I didn’t get the purpose of this book. If Suzy Quinn wanted to share Callum’s story, there could have been another (better) way without including Michael. In all the transcripts from Callum's "interviews" and Michael’s extreme reluctance to influence his research object, they didn't seem to have any interaction, so their close friendship/relationship seemed to come out of nowhere!
Then, on Michael's research, why did he focus his research only on one kid? Based on his premise "Boys from disadvantaged backgrounds are exposed to a culture of toxic masculinity...", I'm not sure I'd consider Callum as "disadvantaged". Yes, he's not coming from a traditional family, but there was plenty of love and care while money didn't seem to be an issue. Furthermore, I really struggle to see which school would allow a kid (Callum) to skip full days of education to talk to an adult who is researching something that has nothing to do with the school?
I can't remember if Callum’s age is disclosed, but based on the books he says that he reads at school, I’d expect that he could not be older than 6/7 yo (Year 2). However, that doesn’t really seem to make sense given the maturity of his speech and his self awareness. The transcripts are really different from the way a kid would tell a story and at some point I even got confused when they mentioned that Callum had "written" on the tablet (and what’s the need to mention the brand of the tablet used?).
I enjoyed Suzy's writing style, but unfortunately the plot didn't convince me at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2024
This book took a little bit of my heart with it. It’s one of those books you will never forget reading. This is more than 5 stars, it is everything. I literally loved it from a few pages in until the last paragraph. I’m so sad it’s over. You MUST read it and enjoy the greatest love story ever told…
October 7, 2025
GREAT book! Rated G. Highly recommend.
Funny, emotional, insightful, inspiring with heart breaking moments.
Insights into humanity and things that make us all tick.
Fast moving …… No.
worth the read …. Yes.
Funny, emotional, insightful, inspiring with heart breaking moments.
Insights into humanity and things that make us all tick.
Fast moving …… No.
worth the read …. Yes.
November 25, 2023
This ranks at the top of all the books I’ve read this year. Quinn is an author I’ve not read before. I found this book by reading reviews of a couple of GR friends.
August 7, 2023
Yeah, it was cute. It's a definite heart warmer with some funny moments and tear-jerking chapters...
I wanted to love this book like everyone else, but without giving too much away... was it the greatest love story ever told? Not to me.
Warning: Unpopular opinion coming your way.
- The ending is so predictable and cheesy. It was (almost) lazy in every way. Maybe it was meant to be like that (even worse), in which case it is a preference for the type of book you are looking to read.
- Such detailed dialogue for journal entries? Hmm. From a kid? Hmm.
- The childrens' emotional maturity bordered on zen-like, with Callum being exceptionally self-aware. What started as cute (Love, Actually young-love vibes) turned into ridiculous. It was actually difficult to believe and confusing at times to remember what their ages were again.
- By about halfway through, I wanted it to be done. I was so bored I caught myself skim reading. But I went back to read it properly again in case I was missing anything. I wasn't.
I think the blurb is deliberately vague because if someone had to write one, almost everybody would call out the plot and ending. The vagueness hooked me, so I guess it worked. Had I read what it would actually be about, I probably would have given it a skip. Well played.
But overall, it did tug on the heart strings, it is different from your usual love story, and if Callum was a real kid, he would be an absolute gift to the world.
I wanted to love this book like everyone else, but without giving too much away... was it the greatest love story ever told? Not to me.
Warning: Unpopular opinion coming your way.
- The ending is so predictable and cheesy. It was (almost) lazy in every way. Maybe it was meant to be like that (even worse), in which case it is a preference for the type of book you are looking to read.
- Such detailed dialogue for journal entries? Hmm. From a kid? Hmm.
- The childrens' emotional maturity bordered on zen-like, with Callum being exceptionally self-aware. What started as cute (Love, Actually young-love vibes) turned into ridiculous. It was actually difficult to believe and confusing at times to remember what their ages were again.
- By about halfway through, I wanted it to be done. I was so bored I caught myself skim reading. But I went back to read it properly again in case I was missing anything. I wasn't.
I think the blurb is deliberately vague because if someone had to write one, almost everybody would call out the plot and ending. The vagueness hooked me, so I guess it worked. Had I read what it would actually be about, I probably would have given it a skip. Well played.
But overall, it did tug on the heart strings, it is different from your usual love story, and if Callum was a real kid, he would be an absolute gift to the world.
March 26, 2023
My thoughts: 💭
Oh, my heart! This book really brings all the feels. Radiating Suzy’s trademark warmth and humour, I flew through the pages. I enjoyed every moment of being back with the Duffy family from Suzy’s much-loved Bad Mother’s series, via Callum’s storytelling.
When Michael Lamb, the gentle, but somewhat socially awkward researcher appointed to interview schoolboy, Callum Duffy, he’s lonely and existing, not living. What starts as reluctant research, turns into a life-changing turning point in Micheal’s life.
During the series of interviews, Callum shares with Micheal the story of his friendship with Angel Rain, a little girl he met in hospital and formed a deep connection with, despite their differences.
Callum is an empathetic, beautiful character that you cannot help but fall in love with. His heart is pure and the way he leaves people better than he finds them makes for life-affirming reading.
If I had to summarise this book in a sentence, I would say: Eleanor Oliphant meets Adrian Mole.
This is a must read! I promise that you'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll also come away wishing we were all a little more Callum.
Beautiful, witty and joyful. Five huge stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Read
June 30, 2023The Greatest Love Story Ever Told is a tear-jerker. It took a bit for me to get into the story, but a few chapters in and I was a goner. There’s so much to love about this story—especially 11-year-old Callum. Oh my. He stole my heart.
This isn’t your typical love story, but oh my it’s certainly about love. What a joy. With humor, love, and heartbreak, this story carries you through a myriad of emotions and makes you yearn for a Callum in your life. A delightfully, tearfully, beautifully told love story.
First Line: I’ve always hated school playgrounds.
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Author: Suzy K Quinn
Page Count: 372
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
This isn’t your typical love story, but oh my it’s certainly about love. What a joy. With humor, love, and heartbreak, this story carries you through a myriad of emotions and makes you yearn for a Callum in your life. A delightfully, tearfully, beautifully told love story.
First Line: I’ve always hated school playgrounds.
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Author: Suzy K Quinn
Page Count: 372
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
August 24, 2023
I loved this book. It’s one I’ll read again and again and I don’t normally read books twice. It’s so heartwarming, funny, sad, laugh out loud. Have the tissues handy because one way or another you’ll be crying. Suzi Quinn has written fabulous books but this one has to be top of the list. We could all learn something from reading this book.
August 23, 2023
I’m feeling a little duped by the vague all caps description….there wasn’t a real “twist” and although the story is cute and different from most rom coms, it wasn’t a tear jerker for me. It was ok, a quick read but that’s it for me.
December 23, 2023
It's simplistic. It's not that it's a bad book, although I had trouble staying awake when I read it. It's not that it isn't well written. It's deep - and yet predictable. I can't quite think who the audience for this would be. It wasn't really for me, although I read it through.
May 21, 2023
What a totally gorgeous read😍
June 28, 2023
This story was truly spectacular and I could not put it down. I absolutely recommend this book. I’d give it 10 stars!
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