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The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley (Christian Series Level I
Isadora Bentley follows the rules. Isadora Bentley likes things just so. Isadora Bentley believes that happiness is something that flat-out doesn’t exist in her life — and never will. As a university researcher, Isadora keeps to herself as much as possible. She avoids the students she’s supposed to befriend and mentor. She stays away from her neighbors and lives her own quiet, organized life in her own quiet, organized apartment. And she will never get involved in a romantic relationship again — especially with another academic. It will be just Isadora and her research. Forever.
464 pages, Library Binding
First published June 1, 2023
1237 people are currently reading
29010 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Walsh
38 books6,043 followersCourtney Walsh is a novelist, theatre director, and playwright. She writes low spice romance and women's fiction while juggling the performing arts studio and youth theatre she owns and runs with her husband. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists. She is also a Carol award winner and Christy award finalist.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,597 reviews
June 21, 2023
When Isadora Bentley was ten, she prayed for a friend. Now that she is 30 she has given up. People just don't get her and her past is littered with hurts and disappointment. While shopping for birthday treats she notices an article listing 31 steps to happiness. She sets out to try the steps herself and prove the author wrong. #1 is Smile more. #3 is Exercise regularly. One of my favorites advises eating chocolate (in moderation). As Isadora tries each new step more people come alongside to try them with her. I loved the varied supporting characters like 70-year-old Marty and 10-year-old Delilah. As Isadora works through the list themes like friendship and forgiveness are explored. A feel good book that just might help you be happier too.
November 4, 2023
Isadora Bentley had been hurt so much in the past- by her parents, her peers growing up, her coworkers, and ex-lovers. How could she ever possibly trust anyone ever again? Wouldn’t life be easier to just be by yourself? Sound familiar? Well it sure did to me, and that’s why I resonated so much with Isadora Bentley. I loved her, and her story. In fact, I loved this book! I laughed (Chapter 3 had me laughing so hard, I was in tears), I cried, I got angry, and I even found happiness…
This story starts off with Isadora celebrating her 30th birthday alone. She is at the supermarket checkout lane, when she purchases a magazine that has an article in it on 31 ways to be happy. Isadora decides that she is going to try each of the 31 ways listed to see if the woman who wrote the article is right. Isadora even runs her own scientific data on this. (I need to mention Chapter 3 again, which was Rule #1- Smiling. I honestly never laughed so hard in my life 😂).
During this process of “becoming happy”, Isadora is instructed to work with Dr. Cal Baxter. How could that be?! Doesn’t her boss (with the creepy mustache) know that she likes to work alone?
Also, during her lunch breaks at the university she meets an older gentleman named Marty, who she becomes friends with. Then her neighbor Darcy and her children from across the hall start coming over. This was not supposed to happen, but because it has- just maybe the 31 ways to be happy can be completed after all.
All I can say is that this book took me by total surprise and I loved every single page of it! I loved Isadora, and I was sad when I turned the last page. I think there are those of us who will resonate with this story more than others due to past experiences, but either way I feel this is a must read!
I highly recommend this book, especially for those who are looking for a lighter read right now and something that is more uplifting.
This story starts off with Isadora celebrating her 30th birthday alone. She is at the supermarket checkout lane, when she purchases a magazine that has an article in it on 31 ways to be happy. Isadora decides that she is going to try each of the 31 ways listed to see if the woman who wrote the article is right. Isadora even runs her own scientific data on this. (I need to mention Chapter 3 again, which was Rule #1- Smiling. I honestly never laughed so hard in my life 😂).
During this process of “becoming happy”, Isadora is instructed to work with Dr. Cal Baxter. How could that be?! Doesn’t her boss (with the creepy mustache) know that she likes to work alone?
Also, during her lunch breaks at the university she meets an older gentleman named Marty, who she becomes friends with. Then her neighbor Darcy and her children from across the hall start coming over. This was not supposed to happen, but because it has- just maybe the 31 ways to be happy can be completed after all.
All I can say is that this book took me by total surprise and I loved every single page of it! I loved Isadora, and I was sad when I turned the last page. I think there are those of us who will resonate with this story more than others due to past experiences, but either way I feel this is a must read!
I highly recommend this book, especially for those who are looking for a lighter read right now and something that is more uplifting.
June 14, 2023
I have mixed feelings about this book. I don’t dislike the idea but the execution could have been better.
Since reading an article about 31 ways to be happy, Isadora’s goal is to prove the author of the article wrong. It’s because she doesn’t believe anything could make her happy.
As you can probably imagine, it’s a story about Isadora’s journey to happiness, because, shocker, 31 ways work!
This is a self-help book in disguise but it’s pretty obvious from the premise so I was not surprised. The self help part was fine, I’m sure some people will find great life hacks here; I agree, smiling more and letting go of grudges will definitely make you feel better.
Isadora was a relatable character and her struggles were very real. Unfortunately the side characters were one dimensional and I couldn’t connect with any of them. Especially the love interest Cal had no personality which made the romance part not very exciting. Unless secondhand embarrassment is your thing because there was plenty of that… She just wouldn’t stop talking 😩
Another part that I didn’t like was how easily Isadora’s issues were solved. Such problems don’t magically disappear from smiling more and doing yoga. Even if your friends are unrealistically supportive and understanding.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Since reading an article about 31 ways to be happy, Isadora’s goal is to prove the author of the article wrong. It’s because she doesn’t believe anything could make her happy.
As you can probably imagine, it’s a story about Isadora’s journey to happiness, because, shocker, 31 ways work!
This is a self-help book in disguise but it’s pretty obvious from the premise so I was not surprised. The self help part was fine, I’m sure some people will find great life hacks here; I agree, smiling more and letting go of grudges will definitely make you feel better.
Isadora was a relatable character and her struggles were very real. Unfortunately the side characters were one dimensional and I couldn’t connect with any of them. Especially the love interest Cal had no personality which made the romance part not very exciting. Unless secondhand embarrassment is your thing because there was plenty of that… She just wouldn’t stop talking 😩
Another part that I didn’t like was how easily Isadora’s issues were solved. Such problems don’t magically disappear from smiling more and doing yoga. Even if your friends are unrealistically supportive and understanding.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 1, 2023
Perfection!!!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
June 13, 2023
This is such a delightfully fun book that touches on all the emotions with laugh out loud moments as well as seriously sad ones. Isadora is a smart and unique nerd who has decided that being alone is better than getting hurt, something that she has endured since kindergarten. She enjoys her job as an academic researcher but has minimal interaction with her co-workers. When she sees an article in a tabloid about 31 ways to happiness, she sets out to prove the author wrong. Her research leads her through steps where she had to interact with people on a personal level and her social awkwardness is hilarious with her straightforward ways of interactions with others. This is a sweet story to read and watch as Isadora makes friends and opens herself up to possibilities, maybe even romance. I highly recommend this story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 6, 2023
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH OH MY GOODNESS COURTNEY WALSH THIS WAS PURE PERFECTION 😭😭😭
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February 7, 2024It was fine - I'm frankly a little astonished at how many people count it as one of their favorite reads of the year!
June 30, 2025
3.5⭐️
I've seen many bookstagrammers love and gush about this book, so I wanted to check it out. In true Courtney Walsh fashion, it's charming, sweet, quirky, and will surely make you laugh. There were some great themes on not fitting in, fears surrounding friendship, and facing past pains. The side characters in this book were my favorite, especially 70-year-old Marty and 10-year-old Delilah.
This book is marketed as Christian women's fiction on Amazon, but there isn't much faith content. I would classify it as clean fiction. I think this book missed a great opportunity to incorporate a little faith content. The focus of this story is the pursuit of happiness. I think happiness is more of a temporary emotion/feeling, one we seek here on earth, but it doesn't come from ourselves or other people; it comes from Jesus.
I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator was fantastic! I can always count on Courtney Walsh to pull me out of a reading slump with her books!
Content to consider: Kisses only, no language, bullying, grief, narcissistic mother (past), heart attack (side character) [all of these are mild, not explicit]
I've seen many bookstagrammers love and gush about this book, so I wanted to check it out. In true Courtney Walsh fashion, it's charming, sweet, quirky, and will surely make you laugh. There were some great themes on not fitting in, fears surrounding friendship, and facing past pains. The side characters in this book were my favorite, especially 70-year-old Marty and 10-year-old Delilah.
This book is marketed as Christian women's fiction on Amazon, but there isn't much faith content. I would classify it as clean fiction. I think this book missed a great opportunity to incorporate a little faith content. The focus of this story is the pursuit of happiness. I think happiness is more of a temporary emotion/feeling, one we seek here on earth, but it doesn't come from ourselves or other people; it comes from Jesus.
I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator was fantastic! I can always count on Courtney Walsh to pull me out of a reading slump with her books!
Content to consider: Kisses only, no language, bullying, grief, narcissistic mother (past), heart attack (side character) [all of these are mild, not explicit]
July 21, 2023
There are some books you read and you really love a certain character. Well, that wasn’t the case with this book. I loved all the characters! What a beautiful story!!
“Can happiness exist in the midst of profound sadness? Can two emotions share the same space?”
“You don't forgive people for their benefit. You do it for yours.”
"It was about me realizing that I have the power to change my own life."
"Happiness is a choice." ❤️
“Can happiness exist in the midst of profound sadness? Can two emotions share the same space?”
“You don't forgive people for their benefit. You do it for yours.”
"It was about me realizing that I have the power to change my own life."
"Happiness is a choice." ❤️
April 22, 2023
Courtney Walsh has previously been one of my favorite authors I had pretty much read all of her books 4-5 years ago. All of them were "happy" books that worked through tough situations/love stories, but what made me remember them most was the Christian message of hope that was laced throughout.
So when I got approved for Isadora I was so excited because I had not read a good "wholesome" book in a while. As I flipped through the page I had this anticipation that at the end Walsh was going to hit me with the hope and promises of God and the joy He gives us. Our contentment and peace in this world is nothing here on earth but it is in Him and Him alone.
Instead Walsh took this book as more of a women's empowerment(??) book. Isadora concluded that her hapiness and joy in life was the choice she gets to make.
Isadora was self doubting the book, she did have some funny lines at times and I appreciated her love of sweatpants and books. Overall I did not warm up to her. I loved loved loved Darby her neighboor and sweet Delilah
So as much as I love COurtney Walsh, this was a dissapointment for me.
Many thanks to Netgally and Tom Nelson Publishing and of course the wonderful Courtney Walsh for allowing me to advanced read this book. I was not influenced in any way for this honest review.
So when I got approved for Isadora I was so excited because I had not read a good "wholesome" book in a while. As I flipped through the page I had this anticipation that at the end Walsh was going to hit me with the hope and promises of God and the joy He gives us. Our contentment and peace in this world is nothing here on earth but it is in Him and Him alone.
Instead Walsh took this book as more of a women's empowerment(??) book. Isadora concluded that her hapiness and joy in life was the choice she gets to make.
Isadora was self doubting the book, she did have some funny lines at times and I appreciated her love of sweatpants and books. Overall I did not warm up to her. I loved loved loved Darby her neighboor and sweet Delilah
So as much as I love COurtney Walsh, this was a dissapointment for me.
Many thanks to Netgally and Tom Nelson Publishing and of course the wonderful Courtney Walsh for allowing me to advanced read this book. I was not influenced in any way for this honest review.
July 11, 2023
This book is like therapy for all us socially anxious creatures!
An awkward university researcher who prefers to work alone, Isadora is on a mission to prove a magazine article, "Thirty-One Ways to Be Happy", wrong. Hurt by many in her life, Isadora simply doesn't believe finding happiness can be that simple. It never has been for her.
But little does she know, stepping outside her comfort zone will bring more than she could imagine!
I adored the focus on friendship, particularly the insecurities of making friends in adulthood. But like Isadora, it's never too late to find your people. I loved seeing Isadora find her safe space with those who truly appreciate her quirks. You never have to change yourself to please others.
From tween to elderly, Delilah, Darby, Cal, and Marty are quite frankly the strangest combination of characters—but also the most extraordinary, lovable bunch, each bringing their own light and wisdom into Isadora's life. And in the case of Dr. Cal Baxter, a little romance too!
A feel-good, relatable story that truly makes you reflect on your own happiness in the process! I adored it. I highly recommend on audio, too! Jorjeana Marie is a new-to-me narrator, but she was amazing.
(heat level: kissing only)
An awkward university researcher who prefers to work alone, Isadora is on a mission to prove a magazine article, "Thirty-One Ways to Be Happy", wrong. Hurt by many in her life, Isadora simply doesn't believe finding happiness can be that simple. It never has been for her.
But little does she know, stepping outside her comfort zone will bring more than she could imagine!
I adored the focus on friendship, particularly the insecurities of making friends in adulthood. But like Isadora, it's never too late to find your people. I loved seeing Isadora find her safe space with those who truly appreciate her quirks. You never have to change yourself to please others.
From tween to elderly, Delilah, Darby, Cal, and Marty are quite frankly the strangest combination of characters—but also the most extraordinary, lovable bunch, each bringing their own light and wisdom into Isadora's life. And in the case of Dr. Cal Baxter, a little romance too!
A feel-good, relatable story that truly makes you reflect on your own happiness in the process! I adored it. I highly recommend on audio, too! Jorjeana Marie is a new-to-me narrator, but she was amazing.
(heat level: kissing only)
June 13, 2023
I loved everything about this book and hope that Courtney Walsh continues to write books like this one and My Phony Valentine. I'm there for it!!
Full review at: https://tonishiloh.com/2023/06/13/boo...
*I received a complimentary copy from publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.
Full review at: https://tonishiloh.com/2023/06/13/boo...
*I received a complimentary copy from publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.
June 14, 2023
This is one of those reviews where my thoughts are swirling every which direction, and I’m going to try to rein them in but probably won’t succeed. Just fair warning that this will likely be a review where I babble on incoherently about how much I loved this story and you’ll be like, “Ok. We get it. Wrap it up” and I’ll be like, “But I still haven’t talked about this or this or this.” So… yeah. This is where we’re at. Lol.
Isadora is a delightfully neurotic and socially awkward protagonist who has Sir David Attenborough narrating her internal monologue and is smart about everything except relationships. Like… with anyone. Not just romantically. In fact, she’s never really had any friends, her parents give her zero emotional support (actually it’s more like negative zillion than zero), and her only significant romantic relationship to date ended in a dumpster fire of humiliation and heartbreak. Because of these things, she isolates herself even from her colleagues and pours her energy and time solely into her work as a research scientist. She’s endearingly irritating but you can’t help loving her, like with a Sheldon Cooper or Temperance Brennan type of character. I adored her. I laughed over her, I grinned big over her and yep I even cried over her. I would almost say that she single-handedly took me on a roller coaster ride through every last one of my emotions… except it wasn’t single-handedly. And that, dear readers, is the beauty of The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley.
When Isadora sets out to disprove the “Thirty-One Ways to Be Happy” article, she never would have predicted that her solitary existence would soon be overrun with people. And honestly, neither did I as a reader. This book took me by surprise in the very best ways. It’s a romance, yes, and whew I’m still swooning over that part of it. But it’s so. much. more. The supporting characters in Isadora’s story make this one of my hands-down favorite reads of the year and my absolute favorite of Courtney Walsh’s books (and I’ve loved all of hers that I’ve read). Martin twisted my heart every time he was on the page, not out of sadness – I promise this is a very uplifting read lol – but because I just adored him so much. I fell head over heels for him, and no he’s not the romantic lead. Darby filled my heart with laughter, her ‘i will barge into your life and force you to be a friendly human’ attitude exactly what Isadora needed even though I would have honestly been tempted to run from her at first. I gave mental standing ovations to the role she played in Isadora’s life and for her refusal to let Isadora quit on her new relationships. Delilah – oh be still my heart. I loved that little girl & related to her so much. And then there’s Cal… but on second thought I’m going to let you discover him for yourself.
Bottom Line: The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh is a truly enjoyable and heart-tugging read from start to finish. There’s laughter and love and friendship … even chocolate and homemade cookies. There’s also an exploration of loss, regrets, and isolation, and after the pandemic I feel like this story is a timely reminder that happiness can rarely be achieved in seclusion. To be honest, as an introvert, I allowed the shutdowns to give me the perfect excuse to hibernate (my default setting) and over the last couple of years I’ve struggled to force myself to get back out and do things with friends and family. Isadora’s journey gave me a lot to think about for my own life, too, and I can’t properly express how much I loved this story Walsh has told.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Isadora is a delightfully neurotic and socially awkward protagonist who has Sir David Attenborough narrating her internal monologue and is smart about everything except relationships. Like… with anyone. Not just romantically. In fact, she’s never really had any friends, her parents give her zero emotional support (actually it’s more like negative zillion than zero), and her only significant romantic relationship to date ended in a dumpster fire of humiliation and heartbreak. Because of these things, she isolates herself even from her colleagues and pours her energy and time solely into her work as a research scientist. She’s endearingly irritating but you can’t help loving her, like with a Sheldon Cooper or Temperance Brennan type of character. I adored her. I laughed over her, I grinned big over her and yep I even cried over her. I would almost say that she single-handedly took me on a roller coaster ride through every last one of my emotions… except it wasn’t single-handedly. And that, dear readers, is the beauty of The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley.
When Isadora sets out to disprove the “Thirty-One Ways to Be Happy” article, she never would have predicted that her solitary existence would soon be overrun with people. And honestly, neither did I as a reader. This book took me by surprise in the very best ways. It’s a romance, yes, and whew I’m still swooning over that part of it. But it’s so. much. more. The supporting characters in Isadora’s story make this one of my hands-down favorite reads of the year and my absolute favorite of Courtney Walsh’s books (and I’ve loved all of hers that I’ve read). Martin twisted my heart every time he was on the page, not out of sadness – I promise this is a very uplifting read lol – but because I just adored him so much. I fell head over heels for him, and no he’s not the romantic lead. Darby filled my heart with laughter, her ‘i will barge into your life and force you to be a friendly human’ attitude exactly what Isadora needed even though I would have honestly been tempted to run from her at first. I gave mental standing ovations to the role she played in Isadora’s life and for her refusal to let Isadora quit on her new relationships. Delilah – oh be still my heart. I loved that little girl & related to her so much. And then there’s Cal… but on second thought I’m going to let you discover him for yourself.
Bottom Line: The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh is a truly enjoyable and heart-tugging read from start to finish. There’s laughter and love and friendship … even chocolate and homemade cookies. There’s also an exploration of loss, regrets, and isolation, and after the pandemic I feel like this story is a timely reminder that happiness can rarely be achieved in seclusion. To be honest, as an introvert, I allowed the shutdowns to give me the perfect excuse to hibernate (my default setting) and over the last couple of years I’ve struggled to force myself to get back out and do things with friends and family. Isadora’s journey gave me a lot to think about for my own life, too, and I can’t properly express how much I loved this story Walsh has told.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
August 10, 2024
pre-read
Courtney Walsh better cure me 🤞
SAY NO TO SMOKING
irl me if you couldn't tell
read Aug 9 - 10
did she cure me? yes 😭😭😭😭😭
beautiful book. I've fallen in love with their friendship. I wanna protect Isadora Bentley. That's all. I highly recommend, pls read 💗💗💗💗
4.75 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ not a five star read because I wish there was more romance between Dora and Cal...... you get me? 🤭🤭
Courtney Walsh better cure me 🤞
SAY NO TO SMOKING
irl me if you couldn't tell
read Aug 9 - 10
did she cure me? yes 😭😭😭😭😭
beautiful book. I've fallen in love with their friendship. I wanna protect Isadora Bentley. That's all. I highly recommend, pls read 💗💗💗💗
4.75 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ not a five star read because I wish there was more romance between Dora and Cal...... you get me? 🤭🤭
December 5, 2023
At first it seemed like it might be good due to the humor, but then the laughs were replaced with soap, mush and predictability. Not worth reviewing as a result.
June 19, 2023
”Happiness isn’t something that happens to us, it’s something we seek & pursue.”
Courtney is one of my favorite feel-good authors and I was so happy to hear she was writing a more contemporary take on a romance! This was such a heart warming story full of nuggets of truth that really make you think. An example of this was how Isadora created friendships and was able to bond with people of all age groups. I think it’s so important to have friends in your life from all ages and stages of life to seek advice and encouragement from. I loved the friendship dynamic and fell even more in love with the side characters than I did Isadora herself!
While Isadora was such a relatable character on so many levels, what I didn’t love was the constant self-deprecating talk and mindset she had. There also didn’t seem like enough time to develop the romance and their relationship with the rest of the themes and events that took place within the book, so unfortunately I had a tough time really getting invested.
Overall, this was such a sweet, thought provoking story and I hope Courtney writes more stories like this in the future!
Thank you to the publisher for this advanced review copy!
Courtney is one of my favorite feel-good authors and I was so happy to hear she was writing a more contemporary take on a romance! This was such a heart warming story full of nuggets of truth that really make you think. An example of this was how Isadora created friendships and was able to bond with people of all age groups. I think it’s so important to have friends in your life from all ages and stages of life to seek advice and encouragement from. I loved the friendship dynamic and fell even more in love with the side characters than I did Isadora herself!
While Isadora was such a relatable character on so many levels, what I didn’t love was the constant self-deprecating talk and mindset she had. There also didn’t seem like enough time to develop the romance and their relationship with the rest of the themes and events that took place within the book, so unfortunately I had a tough time really getting invested.
Overall, this was such a sweet, thought provoking story and I hope Courtney writes more stories like this in the future!
Thank you to the publisher for this advanced review copy!
September 22, 2024
I did not want this book to end. Such a raw and real story with all the swoony clean romance. Isadora is such a likable character. I loved seeing her wrestle with what it truly means to be happy. I’ve been in a reading slump and this book is just what I needed!
I’ve seen a lot of hype surrounding this book, so glad I finally got to it.
Note: I would not say this is a Christian fiction book so don’t approach it that way. It is clean fiction (just kisses) by a Christian publisher
I’ve seen a lot of hype surrounding this book, so glad I finally got to it.
Note: I would not say this is a Christian fiction book so don’t approach it that way. It is clean fiction (just kisses) by a Christian publisher
February 24, 2023
I have been SO CONFLICTED on how to rate this book. Because I really, really, REALLY enjoyed reading this. Like, I LOVED the journey of this book. SO MUCH. It is from such a unique point of view and just...the relationships! The premise! The drama! It was SO GOOD!!!!
But. I didn't care for the ending *sobs*.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
But. I didn't care for the ending *sobs*.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 17, 2023
I had high hopes for this book as I have enjoyed quite a few of Ms. Walsh’s books in the past. Isadora Bentley is a researcher at a university and she's an introvert who would rather work alone, stay in her comfort zone and is not great around people. She comes across this article entitled ‘31 ways to be Happy’ and on a whim she picks it up and decides to work on proving it wrong by performing each of the 31 steps. The first step is smile to a stranger, through that one little action she meets a stranger, and they end up becoming friends. She then meets somebody else, and her friendship circle continues to grow. When she starts this project, she is not very happy and pretty much alone, we watch her find friends and grow. I did enjoy seeing how other people impacted her life and pushed her out of her comfort zone. She ends up doing a lot of things she would have never done if she hadn't tried this project. The more I think about it I liked the side characters more than I did Isadora and I went into this thinking I would relate to closely to Isadora. What I did not like about this book is that Ms. Walsh has written strong faith stories in the past and it is promoted as Christian fiction but there is pretty much no faith in this story. It ends with Isadora saying happiness is a choice and I need to choose to be happy. This felt like a new age, self-help kind of book to me because she was really relying on herself. Someone tells her he wants to make her happy and she responds you can't make me happy I need to make myself happy. Due to the subject matter, there was a huge opportunity here to include the One who is the true source of happiness. I am disappointed with the way this book went. (I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
This review first appeared at: C Jane Read.
This review first appeared at: C Jane Read.
August 17, 2023
Audiobook (narrated by Jorjeana Marie)
This book made me happy. I finished the end of the story while on the treadmill, and I realized that I wore a silly grin through at least the last ten minutes of the book and my walk. I loved Isadora's journey, watching her collect a new family and be able to fall in love. My one disappointment was the absence of any faith or belief in God entering the story and being part of the healing of Isadora's emotional wounds.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved/enjoyed it. Will recommend to others. May read again.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
This book made me happy. I finished the end of the story while on the treadmill, and I realized that I wore a silly grin through at least the last ten minutes of the book and my walk. I loved Isadora's journey, watching her collect a new family and be able to fall in love. My one disappointment was the absence of any faith or belief in God entering the story and being part of the healing of Isadora's emotional wounds.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved/enjoyed it. Will recommend to others. May read again.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
October 27, 2024
I've been looking to read this one for a long time as I kind of identified a bit with the lead character, Isadora. She is very self-contained, works as a university researcher, keeps to herself and has been done wrong by her last boyfriend at work. It's her birthday, and she's thirty. She usually avoids the candy and snacks aisle at the supermarket, but she's going to splurge on everything bad and celebrate her birthday alone in her apartment. However, she notices a tabloid at the checkout that has a challenge to make yourself happy by trying out a list of things you might not normally do. Her clinical mind is intrigued by this and she decides to make an actual research study out of trying out these thirty plus things to see if they make her happy.
I usually read literary fiction and not romcom-ish genres, so this was a little less stimulating for me. I considered DNF-ing this book on multiple occasions, but a small part of me wanted to find out how it ended. I have to give this author credit for not using the usual trope of someone kissing someone for the first time one second and falling into bed the next. There were some likeable characters like an elderly heartbroken widower who couldn't bring himself to visit his wife's grave, and the next door neighbor who had four kids and found wonder and happiness just by going outside and taking a deep breath and appreciating the sunshine. While it certainly wasn't riveting, I did enjoy this book.
I usually read literary fiction and not romcom-ish genres, so this was a little less stimulating for me. I considered DNF-ing this book on multiple occasions, but a small part of me wanted to find out how it ended. I have to give this author credit for not using the usual trope of someone kissing someone for the first time one second and falling into bed the next. There were some likeable characters like an elderly heartbroken widower who couldn't bring himself to visit his wife's grave, and the next door neighbor who had four kids and found wonder and happiness just by going outside and taking a deep breath and appreciating the sunshine. While it certainly wasn't riveting, I did enjoy this book.
April 18, 2024
This book was pure joy :) I found myself purposely taking my time because I wanted to savor the journey to happiness with Isadora. The characters were like giant hugs and every chapter I couldn't help but smile. The romance was sweet. Who couldn't love Cal? For that matter, who couldn't love all of them? Marty, Darby and her children... such an amazing cast that I'm still not ready to let go (even after reallllly taking my time.)
Highly reccomend!
Highly reccomend!
May 24, 2024
Giving this one a 3.5..
Isadora is quirky. A sweet and geniune story on finding happiness.
Isadora is quirky. A sweet and geniune story on finding happiness.
December 29, 2025
I believe I’ve had this audiobook for a while. I just haven’t started it. Well, I just did and I’m about five chapters into it and I can’t think of the last time I laughed this much reading a book. The author is absolutely hysterical and the narrator for this book is amazing! She makes every bit of it fun.
More review to come when I’m finished. Super fun book, and if you get a chance to listen to the audiobook, do it! It will increase your level of enjoyment tenfold.
The next day….
I had so much fun reading this book. I think Courtney Walsh (the author ) is somebody that I would really like. She’s hysterical. She writes about a 30-year-old research specialist with such wit that at times I laughed right out loud. At first, you’re wondering what this character (Isadora) is really like. She had a pretty sad childhood. She seemed a bit of a recluse, okay, a serious recluse, and she’s an introvert. I don’t think she means to be funny, but she is SO funny. I think she’s been in her head so much that she doesn’t have a clue what might be considered socially acceptable ways to communicate.. She tends to blurt things out as it comes into her head. I found it refreshing, but I could see how some people would be taken aback. I loved how when people were getting to know her they just really, really liked her.
I won’t say what else the book is about because I don’t I want to spoil it. Just know that it’s fun.
I wouldn’t call this Christian fiction at all. There might be a few characters who have some sort of relationship with God, but it’s not specifically Christian and the main characters don’t seem to have a relationship with God. They’re not anti-God just not faith filled. But it was clean. And very, very good.
More review to come when I’m finished. Super fun book, and if you get a chance to listen to the audiobook, do it! It will increase your level of enjoyment tenfold.
The next day….
I had so much fun reading this book. I think Courtney Walsh (the author ) is somebody that I would really like. She’s hysterical. She writes about a 30-year-old research specialist with such wit that at times I laughed right out loud. At first, you’re wondering what this character (Isadora) is really like. She had a pretty sad childhood. She seemed a bit of a recluse, okay, a serious recluse, and she’s an introvert. I don’t think she means to be funny, but she is SO funny. I think she’s been in her head so much that she doesn’t have a clue what might be considered socially acceptable ways to communicate.. She tends to blurt things out as it comes into her head. I found it refreshing, but I could see how some people would be taken aback. I loved how when people were getting to know her they just really, really liked her.
I won’t say what else the book is about because I don’t I want to spoil it. Just know that it’s fun.
I wouldn’t call this Christian fiction at all. There might be a few characters who have some sort of relationship with God, but it’s not specifically Christian and the main characters don’t seem to have a relationship with God. They’re not anti-God just not faith filled. But it was clean. And very, very good.
December 8, 2023
4.5 Stars
At thirty, Isadora’s life is bland and far from happy. So when she spies a magazine article proclaiming “31 Ways to Be Happy (Today!)”, as an academic researcher she feels she can debunk this ridiculousness. However, as she starts trying out the suggestions in the name of science, it forces her to open up to others and she finds her life changing. Isadora was hurt badly in the past which ultimately led to her being guarded, her life stagnant, so I was thrilled seeing her start to embrace life and happiness, making friends, and finding love along the way! Isadora’s journey was of self-discovery and healing. This was such an uplifting story with a sweet romance as icing on the cake!
The audio was excellent! Jorjeana Marie's performance breathed life into the characters and definitely enhanced my enjoyment of the story! I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
An audio copy was kindly provided by Thomas Nelson via Libro.fm in exchange for an honest review.
At thirty, Isadora’s life is bland and far from happy. So when she spies a magazine article proclaiming “31 Ways to Be Happy (Today!)”, as an academic researcher she feels she can debunk this ridiculousness. However, as she starts trying out the suggestions in the name of science, it forces her to open up to others and she finds her life changing. Isadora was hurt badly in the past which ultimately led to her being guarded, her life stagnant, so I was thrilled seeing her start to embrace life and happiness, making friends, and finding love along the way! Isadora’s journey was of self-discovery and healing. This was such an uplifting story with a sweet romance as icing on the cake!
The audio was excellent! Jorjeana Marie's performance breathed life into the characters and definitely enhanced my enjoyment of the story! I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
An audio copy was kindly provided by Thomas Nelson via Libro.fm in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2023
I loved this book. It was sweet, funny and downright inspiring. I really enjoyed watching Isadora grow throughout her journey. But I think the cast of characters was what I enjoyed the most, and will miss the most after reading this wonderful book. Definitely recommend and will be looking for more by this author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thanks so much to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thanks so much to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC.
June 27, 2023
This was the second most wholesome, uplifting book I have read all year and somehow I read it RIGHT after I read the first one. This book had it all- self-discovery, coming out of one's shell, romance, growing up, realizing your worth. I genuinely enjoyed this book and found myself almost crying at a few parts.
Isadora Bentley is a researcher that has been HURT by almost everyone she has let into her life. Her ex boyfriend/research partner used her and then left her. She has never been supported by her family. She has always felt like an outsider. Until one day, she picks up a magazine with an article claiming to bring you happiness with these 31 steps. She scoffs at the article and decides to embark on the journey of the steps ONLY to prove the article wrong. Not because she isn't happy or anything. At the same time, her boss assigns her a new project that involves a very handsome psychologist named Dr. Cal Baxter.
As Isadora pushes herself to complete step after step from the article she finds herself with not one new friend, not two new friends, but three new friends including a boyfriend and a found family. She still finds herself wanting to hide and not be hurt by the people that are around her, but they help her see what she is worth and that sometimes you have to jump to fall.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it! It was a very light summer read that couldn't not make you smile if you tried. I found myself laughing out loud at her inner voice that was David Attenboroughesk. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Isadora Bentley is a researcher that has been HURT by almost everyone she has let into her life. Her ex boyfriend/research partner used her and then left her. She has never been supported by her family. She has always felt like an outsider. Until one day, she picks up a magazine with an article claiming to bring you happiness with these 31 steps. She scoffs at the article and decides to embark on the journey of the steps ONLY to prove the article wrong. Not because she isn't happy or anything. At the same time, her boss assigns her a new project that involves a very handsome psychologist named Dr. Cal Baxter.
As Isadora pushes herself to complete step after step from the article she finds herself with not one new friend, not two new friends, but three new friends including a boyfriend and a found family. She still finds herself wanting to hide and not be hurt by the people that are around her, but they help her see what she is worth and that sometimes you have to jump to fall.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it! It was a very light summer read that couldn't not make you smile if you tried. I found myself laughing out loud at her inner voice that was David Attenboroughesk. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
August 15, 2023
As a closed door- clean women’s fiction/romance this is a wonderful book. Lovable characters, laugh out loud moments, and just wholesome fun.
But as a Christian fiction book (publisher is Thomas Nelson) it is really disappointing because there is such a missed opportunity to share the true meaning of happiness in the Christian faith. I was also really disappointed in some of the focuses of this book- there were more new age principles than Christian.
I understand authors and publishers trying to appeal to more audiences but if I read something published by a Christian publishing house I expected more. If this had been published anywhere else I wouldn’t care as much, but it is almost like Christian fiction doesn’t exist anymore and instead Christian publishing houses are just the places that have more ”clean” stories than non-Christian publishing groups. I know this author is moving more toward being marketed as a closed door author than Christian author so she can appeal to more people and has been publishing a lot more in the kindle unlimited space, but it’s sad to see the missed opportunity here to share about God in a fiction book especially on the topic of finding ultimate happiness and themes of receiving grace from others and the power of forgiveness.
Will I still recommend this book as a wholesome book- yes, but I’m sad it missed the mark for Christian fiction.
But as a Christian fiction book (publisher is Thomas Nelson) it is really disappointing because there is such a missed opportunity to share the true meaning of happiness in the Christian faith. I was also really disappointed in some of the focuses of this book- there were more new age principles than Christian.
I understand authors and publishers trying to appeal to more audiences but if I read something published by a Christian publishing house I expected more. If this had been published anywhere else I wouldn’t care as much, but it is almost like Christian fiction doesn’t exist anymore and instead Christian publishing houses are just the places that have more ”clean” stories than non-Christian publishing groups. I know this author is moving more toward being marketed as a closed door author than Christian author so she can appeal to more people and has been publishing a lot more in the kindle unlimited space, but it’s sad to see the missed opportunity here to share about God in a fiction book especially on the topic of finding ultimate happiness and themes of receiving grace from others and the power of forgiveness.
Will I still recommend this book as a wholesome book- yes, but I’m sad it missed the mark for Christian fiction.
May 3, 2023
This is likely going to make my best of the year list. And I mean, the cover is just 🤩
On her 30th birthday, Isadora is checking out at the grocery store with a cart full of candy she plans to binge alone when a magazine headline catches her eye:
“31 Ways to Be Happy (Today!)”
With a researcher’s careful methodology, she sets out to disprove the entire list. What happens next is funny, sweet, and heartwarming in the best way. I truly loved everything about this. With a quirky main character reminiscent of Elinor Oliphant and a cast of supporting characters who would be friends with A Man Called Ove’s neighbors, this story will leave you with the biggest smile on your face and a renewed hope in humanity and community (at least that’s what it did for me). ❤️
“It’s as if she’s got a handle on who I am and she’s fine with it. Maybe [she] is the kind of person who simply allows people to be who they are. I might as well be having coffee with a unicorn.”
“Maybe happiness isn’t about what you do, Isadora. Maybe it’s about who you do it with.”
Many many thanks to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the advanced digital review copy. This was such a delight. The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh releases on June 13.
On her 30th birthday, Isadora is checking out at the grocery store with a cart full of candy she plans to binge alone when a magazine headline catches her eye:
“31 Ways to Be Happy (Today!)”
With a researcher’s careful methodology, she sets out to disprove the entire list. What happens next is funny, sweet, and heartwarming in the best way. I truly loved everything about this. With a quirky main character reminiscent of Elinor Oliphant and a cast of supporting characters who would be friends with A Man Called Ove’s neighbors, this story will leave you with the biggest smile on your face and a renewed hope in humanity and community (at least that’s what it did for me). ❤️
“It’s as if she’s got a handle on who I am and she’s fine with it. Maybe [she] is the kind of person who simply allows people to be who they are. I might as well be having coffee with a unicorn.”
“Maybe happiness isn’t about what you do, Isadora. Maybe it’s about who you do it with.”
Many many thanks to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the advanced digital review copy. This was such a delight. The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh releases on June 13.
June 13, 2023
Courtney Walsh hit this one way out of the park!! I fell in love with Isadora from the very first few pages and I was rooting for her to find her happiness throughout this entire book.
Perfect for fans of character-driven novels like The brilliant life of Eudora Honeysett or Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine. Isadora is a woman happy to focus on her academic research and ignore the people around her having been burned badly by love.
Fortunately for her, after reading an article espousing 30 ways to find happiness on the eve of her 30th birthday, Isadora is challenged to step outside her comfort zone and take chances, make new friends and maybe, just maybe, find someone who loves her for who she is, quirks and all.
Swoony, heartfelt and absolutely unputdownable. This is going to be one of my favorite books of the year and by far the best book by Courtney Walsh I've read to date. Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and Librofm for the early digital and audio copies in exchange for my honest reviews!
🔥Steam level: kissing only
Perfect for fans of character-driven novels like The brilliant life of Eudora Honeysett or Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine. Isadora is a woman happy to focus on her academic research and ignore the people around her having been burned badly by love.
Fortunately for her, after reading an article espousing 30 ways to find happiness on the eve of her 30th birthday, Isadora is challenged to step outside her comfort zone and take chances, make new friends and maybe, just maybe, find someone who loves her for who she is, quirks and all.
Swoony, heartfelt and absolutely unputdownable. This is going to be one of my favorite books of the year and by far the best book by Courtney Walsh I've read to date. Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and Librofm for the early digital and audio copies in exchange for my honest reviews!
🔥Steam level: kissing only
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