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Emergency Exit Only
No evacuation plan, no safety net. Amelia's quitting the daily grind to find her fantasy job. But a shocking secret from the past shows her that where there's smoke, there's fire ... And sometimes you just have to save yourself. Amelia Harris has played it safe all her life - but when a minor accident lands her in hospital, she dramatically quits the tedious office job she's had for a decade. At a loss at what she wants to do next - and fast running out of cash - Amelia tries her hand at the dream jobs she's always fantasized about. Soon she's shadowing a thrilling cast of characters and professions - as a journalist, a florist, a wedding planner, a zookeeper, and more. Life couldn't be more exciting, especially when she meets the man of her dreams. But when her mother, Toni, drops a truth bomb about their family, Amelia's whole world tilts on its axis. Meanwhile, each new job starts taking on a life of its own. Has she created a monster? As she's about to find out, where there's smoke, there's fire, and sometimes you just have to save yourself. A hilarious, big-hearted story about second chances from the author of Terms of Inheritance.
344 pages, Paperback
First published November 29, 2023
15 people are currently reading
623 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Upton
3 books53 followersMichelle Upton is the author of 'Emergency Exit Only' and 'Terms of Inheritance' published by HarperCollins Australia. She would like to acknowledge the Quandamooka people and the Quandamooka Country on which her novels were written.
Michelle writes short stories and novels that examine our darkest fears and shine a light on hope and possibility.
Born in Birmingham, England, Michelle emigrated to Australia in 2006 and is now proud to call herself Australian.
Michelle has a Bachelor (Hons) degree in Literature with Psychology, and before having children she was a primary school teacher.
'Terms of Inheritance' was shortlisted for the 2021 Banjo Prize and both of her novels were shortlisted for the Queensland Writers Centre's Adaptable: Turning the Page to Screen program.
Michelle lives on the beautiful Redlands Coast in Queensland, Australia with her family.
Michelle writes short stories and novels that examine our darkest fears and shine a light on hope and possibility.
Born in Birmingham, England, Michelle emigrated to Australia in 2006 and is now proud to call herself Australian.
Michelle has a Bachelor (Hons) degree in Literature with Psychology, and before having children she was a primary school teacher.
'Terms of Inheritance' was shortlisted for the 2021 Banjo Prize and both of her novels were shortlisted for the Queensland Writers Centre's Adaptable: Turning the Page to Screen program.
Michelle lives on the beautiful Redlands Coast in Queensland, Australia with her family.
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December 12, 2023
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Emergency Exit Only by Michelle Upton. (2023).
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free advance readers copy of this novel; published 29 November 2023**
Amelia has played it safe all her life but when a minor accident lands her in hospital, she dramatically quits her tedious office job. She doesn't know what to do and out of sheer desperation she decides to try her hand at a bunch of jobs she's always dreamed about. Life becomes exciting and even more so when she meets the man of her dreams. But when her mother Toni drops a truth bomb about their family, Amelia's whole world tilts on its axis. At the same time, all the jobs get overwhelming. Has she created a monster?
What a great concept for a story. I quite liked Amelia's endeavour of trying jobs to see if she'd like them; a lot of us probably imagine certain jobs would be great but it doesn't necessarily mean it would be a great fit for us. Amelia gets to try out being a journalist, florist, wedding planner, zoo keeper among other things and it was fun reading the little things that happened at each. While this is a light storyline, there is a serious undertone at parts particularly in the last quarter. I really enjoyed Amelia's personal growth journey: at the the beginning she is very much stuck in her routines, just getting through life, but after her random little accident she really puts herself out there to find out there to experience life and work out what is going to make her happy - it was inspiring.
Overall: an enjoyable life-lit that is an easy read - perfect for a weekend or vacation read.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Emergency Exit Only by Michelle Upton. (2023).
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free advance readers copy of this novel; published 29 November 2023**
Amelia has played it safe all her life but when a minor accident lands her in hospital, she dramatically quits her tedious office job. She doesn't know what to do and out of sheer desperation she decides to try her hand at a bunch of jobs she's always dreamed about. Life becomes exciting and even more so when she meets the man of her dreams. But when her mother Toni drops a truth bomb about their family, Amelia's whole world tilts on its axis. At the same time, all the jobs get overwhelming. Has she created a monster?
What a great concept for a story. I quite liked Amelia's endeavour of trying jobs to see if she'd like them; a lot of us probably imagine certain jobs would be great but it doesn't necessarily mean it would be a great fit for us. Amelia gets to try out being a journalist, florist, wedding planner, zoo keeper among other things and it was fun reading the little things that happened at each. While this is a light storyline, there is a serious undertone at parts particularly in the last quarter. I really enjoyed Amelia's personal growth journey: at the the beginning she is very much stuck in her routines, just getting through life, but after her random little accident she really puts herself out there to find out there to experience life and work out what is going to make her happy - it was inspiring.
Overall: an enjoyable life-lit that is an easy read - perfect for a weekend or vacation read.
November 22, 2023
Thank you Harper Collins for sending us a copy to read and review.
Michelle Upton’s sophomore release Emergency Exit Only is chic, refined, glossy, cheeky and a whole lot of fun.
A solid, candid and engaging contemporary fiction tale about believing and following your dreams.
Amelia Harris works in a monotonous job in a dull office.
The same thing everyday and keeping her colleagues at a distance.
Then one day she quits in a very dramatic way.
Unsure of what to do next, Amelia decides to start sampling jobs.
Sort of like adult work experience to discover her true working passion.
Also her free spirited mother Toni, drops a bombshell, this creates questions.
After testing numerous careers and meeting the man of her dreams, Amelia must determine what she wants out of life.
Michelle is a new voice in Aussie fiction and her second book is witty, humorous, totally relatable and a damn good read.
A story that will cling to your reading senses and not let go.
That’s a lot to love about this book, the finesse of the plot, the responsive characters, the touching of emotions and warmth of the Queensland weather.
Love the characterisation, the unfolding narrative, the strong, comedic writing and the warmth, tender and honesty that comes from the pages.
One not to be missed.
Michelle Upton’s sophomore release Emergency Exit Only is chic, refined, glossy, cheeky and a whole lot of fun.
A solid, candid and engaging contemporary fiction tale about believing and following your dreams.
Amelia Harris works in a monotonous job in a dull office.
The same thing everyday and keeping her colleagues at a distance.
Then one day she quits in a very dramatic way.
Unsure of what to do next, Amelia decides to start sampling jobs.
Sort of like adult work experience to discover her true working passion.
Also her free spirited mother Toni, drops a bombshell, this creates questions.
After testing numerous careers and meeting the man of her dreams, Amelia must determine what she wants out of life.
Michelle is a new voice in Aussie fiction and her second book is witty, humorous, totally relatable and a damn good read.
A story that will cling to your reading senses and not let go.
That’s a lot to love about this book, the finesse of the plot, the responsive characters, the touching of emotions and warmth of the Queensland weather.
Love the characterisation, the unfolding narrative, the strong, comedic writing and the warmth, tender and honesty that comes from the pages.
One not to be missed.
June 19, 2024
An excellent, easy, mostly ‘fluffy’ (but definitely not all fluffy) holiday read about a wake up call and attacking life and living to the fullest.
Was it a bit cringy at times? Yes! But do I love a bit of predictability and cringe? Also yes!
Everything I wanted this book to be :)
Was it a bit cringy at times? Yes! But do I love a bit of predictability and cringe? Also yes!
Everything I wanted this book to be :)
November 27, 2023
Craig bounced on his toes. "She is!' he squealed. 'She's doing it!'
Amelia evil-eyed her work colleagues as she marched past her desk and then did the thing she'd fantasised about doing for months. She pushed the bar on the emergency exit only door and opened it. Bright sunshine filled the office, and a piercing alarm rang out. Craig jumped up and down and pumped his fist in the air.
"You tell 'em, honey. You show 'em what you're made of!'
…
There was no going back.
WOW! WOW! WOW! I thought Michelle had hit the ball out of the park with her debut novel, Terms of Inheritance. I loved it. So I thought, could she do it again? You betcha! Emergency Exit Only came as such a fantastic surprise - I found it to be the perfect blend of reality and life lessons with a splash of humour and romance.
‘… talking about burnout and the importance of taking time to check in with yourself and ask if the life you've created is still working for you.’
At first I thought, ‘oh here we go … whiny, pedantic Amelia might really get on my nerves’. But gosh - her journey was sublime! Michelle has this incredible skill at combining lessons and laughter, morals and mayhem! The more I got into this book, the more I could not put it down. My highlighter was working overtime and my smile broadened as I turned each page to its fitting conclusion.
When I interviewed Michelle (see the blog) on writing Terms of Inheritance, she explained how the story allowed her to reflect on the many lessons she had learnt and the growth that ensued. I can see how once again she has put these life lessons to work through the challenges Amelia gives herself in trying to discover how to live her best life.
'I told myself it was normal. For twenty years, I convinced myself that was how everyone felt. I thought, everyone is anxious, everyone is tired, so why would I be any different? I thought if I could just make it to the weekend, I could carve out some time for me, and then I'd feel better, but of course, that was never enough.'
There is just so much to takeaway from this book but for me, Michelle’s tale spoke loudly about stepping out of your comfort zone in order to experience real growth. That you have to let go of what you know in order for life to happen to you - challenge you, exhaust you, reward you. This is a truly wonderful story - so real and relatable. A story of how a person is never too old to start afresh and learn to be true to yourself, especially when overcoming both internal and external forces. That letting go, forgiving and moving on are crucial and that your life’s attitude can determine so much. Emergency Exit Only …. read it. You won’t regret it.
‘She suddenly realised she had only one life to live, one chance to experience what it was like to be human. She had one opportunity to bear witness to it all. It was like she'd been asleep her whole life, and now, at thirty-five, she'd finally been jolted awake. Her mum had been right. This was an awakening.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Amelia evil-eyed her work colleagues as she marched past her desk and then did the thing she'd fantasised about doing for months. She pushed the bar on the emergency exit only door and opened it. Bright sunshine filled the office, and a piercing alarm rang out. Craig jumped up and down and pumped his fist in the air.
"You tell 'em, honey. You show 'em what you're made of!'
…
There was no going back.
WOW! WOW! WOW! I thought Michelle had hit the ball out of the park with her debut novel, Terms of Inheritance. I loved it. So I thought, could she do it again? You betcha! Emergency Exit Only came as such a fantastic surprise - I found it to be the perfect blend of reality and life lessons with a splash of humour and romance.
‘… talking about burnout and the importance of taking time to check in with yourself and ask if the life you've created is still working for you.’
At first I thought, ‘oh here we go … whiny, pedantic Amelia might really get on my nerves’. But gosh - her journey was sublime! Michelle has this incredible skill at combining lessons and laughter, morals and mayhem! The more I got into this book, the more I could not put it down. My highlighter was working overtime and my smile broadened as I turned each page to its fitting conclusion.
When I interviewed Michelle (see the blog) on writing Terms of Inheritance, she explained how the story allowed her to reflect on the many lessons she had learnt and the growth that ensued. I can see how once again she has put these life lessons to work through the challenges Amelia gives herself in trying to discover how to live her best life.
'I told myself it was normal. For twenty years, I convinced myself that was how everyone felt. I thought, everyone is anxious, everyone is tired, so why would I be any different? I thought if I could just make it to the weekend, I could carve out some time for me, and then I'd feel better, but of course, that was never enough.'
There is just so much to takeaway from this book but for me, Michelle’s tale spoke loudly about stepping out of your comfort zone in order to experience real growth. That you have to let go of what you know in order for life to happen to you - challenge you, exhaust you, reward you. This is a truly wonderful story - so real and relatable. A story of how a person is never too old to start afresh and learn to be true to yourself, especially when overcoming both internal and external forces. That letting go, forgiving and moving on are crucial and that your life’s attitude can determine so much. Emergency Exit Only …. read it. You won’t regret it.
‘She suddenly realised she had only one life to live, one chance to experience what it was like to be human. She had one opportunity to bear witness to it all. It was like she'd been asleep her whole life, and now, at thirty-five, she'd finally been jolted awake. Her mum had been right. This was an awakening.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
February 3, 2024
I absolutely devoured this fantastic, feel good, upbeat, funny, heartwarming novel in 2 days! I just couldn’t put it down!
Amelia is a creature of habit and never steps outside her comfort zone. She has worked as an accountant at the same firm for 10 years. All while never getting close to her colleagues even to the point of barely speaking to anyone.
Already on her last nerve, she begrudgingly agrees to run an errand for one of her colleagues which indirectly causes her to end up in an electric scooter accident, that could have been very life changing (millimetres from life changing)
However she looks at this event as a life changing situation nonetheless and dramatically and fantastically quits her job in a spectacular fashion!
Now with no job and no income, Amelia moves back home with her mum, and embarks on a once in a lifetime opportunity of testing possible jobs in an ‘adult style’ 2 week work experience
Testing out all the jobs she had dreamed of, wedding planner, writer, zookeeper, teacher, Amelia starts to open up to the outside world while also opening up her heart.
A really lovely and heartwarming story of learning more about yourself and finding happiness in unexpected situations.
Amelia is so relatable in that it is so easy to take the easy option and shut out the world for fear of disappointment. Her sometimes difficult relationship with her carefree spirited mum Toni was so real & raw.
Amelia is a creature of habit and never steps outside her comfort zone. She has worked as an accountant at the same firm for 10 years. All while never getting close to her colleagues even to the point of barely speaking to anyone.
Already on her last nerve, she begrudgingly agrees to run an errand for one of her colleagues which indirectly causes her to end up in an electric scooter accident, that could have been very life changing (millimetres from life changing)
However she looks at this event as a life changing situation nonetheless and dramatically and fantastically quits her job in a spectacular fashion!
Now with no job and no income, Amelia moves back home with her mum, and embarks on a once in a lifetime opportunity of testing possible jobs in an ‘adult style’ 2 week work experience
Testing out all the jobs she had dreamed of, wedding planner, writer, zookeeper, teacher, Amelia starts to open up to the outside world while also opening up her heart.
A really lovely and heartwarming story of learning more about yourself and finding happiness in unexpected situations.
Amelia is so relatable in that it is so easy to take the easy option and shut out the world for fear of disappointment. Her sometimes difficult relationship with her carefree spirited mum Toni was so real & raw.
September 5, 2023
Absolutely loved it!!!!!!!!! Completely perfect!!!!!
April 7, 2025
The premise—quitting a job to explore a series of new roles in search of passion and purpose—is an appealing one. However, the novel leans more into fantasy than a grounded exploration of real-life reinvention. It carries a strong chick-lit, feel-good tone throughout.
The friendship between a 35-year-old woman and a divorced man—spanning months without any romantic or sexual tension—feels somewhat implausible, especially given her stated desire to be more adventurous and spontaneous.
That said, the characterisation is strong, and most of the protagonists are easy to empathise with. While the novel touches on some deeper themes, including depression, it generally remains a light-hearted, easy read.
The friendship between a 35-year-old woman and a divorced man—spanning months without any romantic or sexual tension—feels somewhat implausible, especially given her stated desire to be more adventurous and spontaneous.
That said, the characterisation is strong, and most of the protagonists are easy to empathise with. While the novel touches on some deeper themes, including depression, it generally remains a light-hearted, easy read.
June 7, 2024
Fun little book to read as I’m still wearing of feelings from a little life lol. It’s a great holiday book (or like me, a book to read while at work!), found it really relatable and easy to read. Felt like a Netflix rom-com movie at times *not a bad thing?* but nothing crazy special!
Read
October 22, 2025Emily in Paris meets The Midnight Library.
Unbelievable, silly, and a bit shallow, but an easy read for those looking for some hope.
Unbelievable, silly, and a bit shallow, but an easy read for those looking for some hope.
November 20, 2023
“You’re still young. Some people don’t experience this kind of wake up call until it’s too late.”
I think this is hands down one of my favourite books of 2023! It was wonderful!
This story is about Amelia. Dedicated, organised, routine focused and adorable, Amelia.
Amelia ditches her career after 10 years in the same job and makes a list of all the jobs she’d like to do even though she’s not qualified. I thoroughly enjoyed being in her shoes and going on these adventures with her! I would so love to do this myself.
Amelia also faced many fears with her new friend Pete, the water cooler guy. Pete was so good for her, so encouraging, so caring and such a bright spark in her life. I loved watching their relationship grow and cried my little heart out at the end!
I actually loved all the characters in the story and how they were all positive influences on Amelia’s life and all of them encouraged her to find her happiness. It was just beautiful.
Apart from the terrible family secret, loss and a break up, this was a really fun, feel good, follow your dreams, kind of book! I got so much out of it and loved the concept, the idea of a “transitional phase” and that it’s never too late to find your dream job!
Do yourself a favour and go grab this book for the Christmas holidays. Actually, buy one for your mum, your sister and your best friend too! Everyone needs to read this heartwarming story!
As always a huge thank you to the team @harpercollinsaustralia for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
I think this is hands down one of my favourite books of 2023! It was wonderful!
This story is about Amelia. Dedicated, organised, routine focused and adorable, Amelia.
Amelia ditches her career after 10 years in the same job and makes a list of all the jobs she’d like to do even though she’s not qualified. I thoroughly enjoyed being in her shoes and going on these adventures with her! I would so love to do this myself.
Amelia also faced many fears with her new friend Pete, the water cooler guy. Pete was so good for her, so encouraging, so caring and such a bright spark in her life. I loved watching their relationship grow and cried my little heart out at the end!
I actually loved all the characters in the story and how they were all positive influences on Amelia’s life and all of them encouraged her to find her happiness. It was just beautiful.
Apart from the terrible family secret, loss and a break up, this was a really fun, feel good, follow your dreams, kind of book! I got so much out of it and loved the concept, the idea of a “transitional phase” and that it’s never too late to find your dream job!
Do yourself a favour and go grab this book for the Christmas holidays. Actually, buy one for your mum, your sister and your best friend too! Everyone needs to read this heartwarming story!
As always a huge thank you to the team @harpercollinsaustralia for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 18, 2023
Amelia has always played it safe. Safe job, same tuna sandwich for lunch everyday, and no getting close to many people. However, one day she is involved in an accident which makes her reassess her life. She spontaneously quits her job, walking out through the ‘emergency exit only’. Left with no idea what to do with her life, she embarks on short stints of work experience, which ultimately forces her to face her fears and makes her realise why she has always played it safe.
The more I read this book, the more I enjoyed it. I loved getting to know Amelia and read about her growth and discovery. It has so many parts that are feel good - and inspiring - but does have some heavier parts too, so check the trigger warnings before reading it.
I really enjoyed this book - and how amazing is the cover?!
The more I read this book, the more I enjoyed it. I loved getting to know Amelia and read about her growth and discovery. It has so many parts that are feel good - and inspiring - but does have some heavier parts too, so check the trigger warnings before reading it.
I really enjoyed this book - and how amazing is the cover?!
February 10, 2024
3.5 stars
I can definitely see see the comparison to Emily Henry . It also reminded me of Claire Christian's West Side Honey as both have fun dancing scenes but where Cleo has a sexual awakening/adventure, in Emergency Exit Only, Amelia is working through career options/learning about who she is without her fear. Although there is a romantic strands, I would call this contemporary fiction, not a romance (the cover made me think it would be more romancey).
I can definitely see see the comparison to Emily Henry . It also reminded me of Claire Christian's West Side Honey as both have fun dancing scenes but where Cleo has a sexual awakening/adventure, in Emergency Exit Only, Amelia is working through career options/learning about who she is without her fear. Although there is a romantic strands, I would call this contemporary fiction, not a romance (the cover made me think it would be more romancey).
October 8, 2025
I loved how this book was based on the Gold Coast, so I could easily imagine and see where they where in the story.
This book is a great example of stepping out of your comfort zone and how it can open up your world to be even bigger and better than you thought it could. I loved how she had the idea of trialling different jobs before committing to a new one. Such a great book. Definitely recommend.
This book is a great example of stepping out of your comfort zone and how it can open up your world to be even bigger and better than you thought it could. I loved how she had the idea of trialling different jobs before committing to a new one. Such a great book. Definitely recommend.
December 6, 2023
You've done it again, thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel.
We all have, at some time, in our lives of what if I changed my life by going through "The Emergency Exit Only."
Amelia misses her Dad still all these years later and is bored with her mundane accounting position.
This journey towards finding herself and happiness brought out all emotions.
Highly recommend 👌
We all have, at some time, in our lives of what if I changed my life by going through "The Emergency Exit Only."
Amelia misses her Dad still all these years later and is bored with her mundane accounting position.
This journey towards finding herself and happiness brought out all emotions.
Highly recommend 👌
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
Cute! Made me smile, a great sunny holiday read
January 19, 2024
Really enjoyed this book! A great influential women’s fiction about following your dreams, with some humour/rom-com included :) thank you Michelle Upton for a lovely read!!
January 18, 2024
A perfect book to read at the beginning of a new year. For anyone who has ever considered changing jobs in an epic fashion, you will find yourself cheering for Amelia. A great read about family, friends and workplace relationships with a sprinkling of love thrown in!
February 16, 2025
Fun and easy read.
An interesting cast of characters that I grew to really like.
An interesting cast of characters that I grew to really like.
March 22, 2025
Amelia has worked as an accountant at an office supply company for the past 10 years. Her obsessive behaviours have distanced her from her work colleagues and that suits Amelia just fine.
When she is knocked down in the street by an electric scooter, Amelia has a life changing moment and in one very dramatic move she quits her job.
What happens next is this brilliantly funny, heart-wrenching story from Michelle Upton as Amelia sets out on a work experience journey to find herself.
When she is knocked down in the street by an electric scooter, Amelia has a life changing moment and in one very dramatic move she quits her job.
What happens next is this brilliantly funny, heart-wrenching story from Michelle Upton as Amelia sets out on a work experience journey to find herself.
January 7, 2024
It's okay to leave room for a little chaos, to give up control."
Amelia Harris is sick of being taken advantage of, always a "yes" person, being walked over in the workplace, stuck in the cog. Until one day all the small things eventually pile up so high that her life comes crumbling down. She dramatically walks out of her stable job without a plan in place for the next step.
She spends the rest of the book trying to find herself, her passion and open herself up to new experiences. In this process she unexpectedly makes a new friend, but starts to draw back into her old self again as the friendship progresses and gets too real. Is she opening herself up to heartbreak? As the side story to why she is so protective of herself becomes clearer she has some tough life choices to make.
"Fear had a hell of a lot to answer for, the way it shaped and moulded your life."
I truly related to a lot of what Amelia was going through! I too have dramatically stormed out of a job in 2012 after being taken advantage of for my work ethic. I was in my next career for nearly 10 years, but during that time I was also walked over and had too much put on my plate because I never said no. I had a mental breakdown during this time and was diagnosed as adrenally fatigued. The fact that I could let someone down gave me more anxiety that being so overloaded that I literally burnt out or having anger towards the people taking advantage of my meekness.
I liked that Michelle Upton explored the background as to why someone would behave this way. For Amelia that was the loss of her dad in a tragic way when she was young. She'd spent her whole life closed off, always keeping people at arms length, so hopefully she didn't need to experience pain or unexpected grief again. This translated into her workplace as never talking back, being a hard-worker and keeping the peace. Once she finds out what really happened to her dad during the course of the novel it is the second eye-opening moment she needs to break free from her anxieties and LIVE!
"Whether you lived with a closed heart or an open heart, pain was unavoidable."
I acknowledge that I probably have had a very different experience with this novel than most people as there is a lot of similarities to things that I have personally experienced, or how Amelia's inner monologue alines with my own.
If you or anyone you know needs help in Australia please contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.
Amelia Harris is sick of being taken advantage of, always a "yes" person, being walked over in the workplace, stuck in the cog. Until one day all the small things eventually pile up so high that her life comes crumbling down. She dramatically walks out of her stable job without a plan in place for the next step.
She spends the rest of the book trying to find herself, her passion and open herself up to new experiences. In this process she unexpectedly makes a new friend, but starts to draw back into her old self again as the friendship progresses and gets too real. Is she opening herself up to heartbreak? As the side story to why she is so protective of herself becomes clearer she has some tough life choices to make.
"Fear had a hell of a lot to answer for, the way it shaped and moulded your life."
I truly related to a lot of what Amelia was going through! I too have dramatically stormed out of a job in 2012 after being taken advantage of for my work ethic. I was in my next career for nearly 10 years, but during that time I was also walked over and had too much put on my plate because I never said no. I had a mental breakdown during this time and was diagnosed as adrenally fatigued. The fact that I could let someone down gave me more anxiety that being so overloaded that I literally burnt out or having anger towards the people taking advantage of my meekness.
I liked that Michelle Upton explored the background as to why someone would behave this way. For Amelia that was the loss of her dad in a tragic way when she was young. She'd spent her whole life closed off, always keeping people at arms length, so hopefully she didn't need to experience pain or unexpected grief again. This translated into her workplace as never talking back, being a hard-worker and keeping the peace. Once she finds out what really happened to her dad during the course of the novel it is the second eye-opening moment she needs to break free from her anxieties and LIVE!
"Whether you lived with a closed heart or an open heart, pain was unavoidable."
I acknowledge that I probably have had a very different experience with this novel than most people as there is a lot of similarities to things that I have personally experienced, or how Amelia's inner monologue alines with my own.
If you or anyone you know needs help in Australia please contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.
May 10, 2024
“Fear had a hell of a lot to answer for, the way it shaped and moulded your life. “
This quote underlined the plot of the book and I enjoyed seeing Amelia’s personal growth as she tried her hand at the dream jobs she’d fantasied about but was too afraid to move out of the comfort zone of her playing it safe existence.
I read this book in two sittings and found it to be a nice, easy, feel-good read. It was both funny and heartwarming and I loved it.
I am sometimes trapped by fear and so I enjoyed reading about Amelia facing her fears and I was cheering her on all the way. It was a book that put a smile on my face.
This quote underlined the plot of the book and I enjoyed seeing Amelia’s personal growth as she tried her hand at the dream jobs she’d fantasied about but was too afraid to move out of the comfort zone of her playing it safe existence.
I read this book in two sittings and found it to be a nice, easy, feel-good read. It was both funny and heartwarming and I loved it.
I am sometimes trapped by fear and so I enjoyed reading about Amelia facing her fears and I was cheering her on all the way. It was a book that put a smile on my face.
January 5, 2025
Light, fluffy entertainment. Amelia gets a wake-up call after an accident & she realises that her safe, dull job & self-circumscribed life may not be the right thing for her. It was fun watching her try out lots of different jobs to see where she might find her passion - almost makes you want to try it yourself. It worked out very well for Amelia as she expanded her horizons & faced her many fears: she became a nicer person when she realised that her misery & anger were self-imposed, not the fault of others. Of course, when Amelia started to emerge from her old, cramped existence, romance couldn't be far away.
Occasionally annoying, sometimes poignant, but mostly a good fun tale. I would happily read another from this author. 3.5★ rounded up.
No evacuation plan, no safety net... Amelia Harris has played it safe all her life - but when a minor accident lands her in hospital, she dramatically quits the tedious office job she's had for a decade. At a loss at what she wants to do next - and fast running out of cash - Amelia tries her hand at the dream jobs she's always fantasised about. Soon she's shadowing a thrilling cast of characters and professions - as a journalist, a florist, a wedding planner, a zookeeper, and more. Life couldn't be more exciting, especially when she meets the man of her dreams. But when her mother, Toni, drops a truth bomb about their family, Amelia's whole world tilts on its axis. Meanwhile, each new job starts taking on a life of its own. Has she created a monster? As she's about to find out, where there's smoke, there's fire, and sometimes you just have to save yourself.
Occasionally annoying, sometimes poignant, but mostly a good fun tale. I would happily read another from this author. 3.5★ rounded up.
No evacuation plan, no safety net... Amelia Harris has played it safe all her life - but when a minor accident lands her in hospital, she dramatically quits the tedious office job she's had for a decade. At a loss at what she wants to do next - and fast running out of cash - Amelia tries her hand at the dream jobs she's always fantasised about. Soon she's shadowing a thrilling cast of characters and professions - as a journalist, a florist, a wedding planner, a zookeeper, and more. Life couldn't be more exciting, especially when she meets the man of her dreams. But when her mother, Toni, drops a truth bomb about their family, Amelia's whole world tilts on its axis. Meanwhile, each new job starts taking on a life of its own. Has she created a monster? As she's about to find out, where there's smoke, there's fire, and sometimes you just have to save yourself.
November 28, 2023
✍️ Amelia has always played it safe in life but when an accident lands her in hospital she decides to quit her boring job for something better. Unsure of what to do exactly she decides to try out all her dream jobs to see which one is the right fit. Zookeeper, florist, wedding planner and journalist which all bring excitement to Amelia's life as well as love along the way.
The Lovely @michelleuptontheauthor is always so kind to send me advanced copies of her books so when I received this one I knew I would be in for a treat and a treat it certainly was. From the start of the Prologue I was Immediately Intrigued by what was going to come next and I couldn't put it down.
I Adored the characterisation of Amelia and Savoured her lovely Disposition and the Hardships she had to Endure and the Risks she had to take in order to become a happier and more prosperous person.
The Concept and Plot expressed a combination of Fun and Interesting elements as well as a great sense of adventure and life changing experiences and challenges that delivered a memorable, relatable and engaging story to the audience whilst outlining the importance of self worth.
I relished every single moment of the story and felt that it would have made for a perfect film. The ending was so satisfying and heartwarming that I couldn't help but feel like I needed to be reminded that this was a very special and important story with a lot of heart and profound meaning .
Highly recommend picking up a copy on 29th November.
March 11, 2024
Amelia, a thirty-five-year-old accountant, fears many things, therefore she always plays it safe. A collision with a scooter and a contusion pushes her to quit her secure but boring job.
With no savings (something that didn't make sense for her personality and age - but I digress), Amelia moves in with her scatterbrained mother who lives in a cluttered house, which drives Amerlia crazy, but beggars can't be choosers.
How's Amelia supposed to know what she wants to do next when she pretty much had the same job after finishing university? She decides to try different jobs, so she takes on different work-experience gigs - working in a surfboard shack, a florist's shop, as a teacher's assistant, in wedding planning and volunteering at the zoo, while also writing articles about her experiences as an adult trainee for a prestigious magazine (we all know it's easy to get freelance writing gigs with no experience, insert sarcasm ;-)).
The realist I grumbled at times at all the opportunities that came Amelia's way, especially when it came to certain work experience areas that are difficult to get into even as a volunteer.
Who doesn't love a good heroine growth journey, right? This one had plenty of growth, to the point that Amelia became a completely new person - nobody changes that much, and certain traits and characteristics are ingrained, otherwise, we'd all be perfect if changing was that easy.
It's not all fluff, there is also a family secret. The love interest dude was OK.
This has the makings of a nice rom-com or a mini-series.
With no savings (something that didn't make sense for her personality and age - but I digress), Amelia moves in with her scatterbrained mother who lives in a cluttered house, which drives Amerlia crazy, but beggars can't be choosers.
How's Amelia supposed to know what she wants to do next when she pretty much had the same job after finishing university? She decides to try different jobs, so she takes on different work-experience gigs - working in a surfboard shack, a florist's shop, as a teacher's assistant, in wedding planning and volunteering at the zoo, while also writing articles about her experiences as an adult trainee for a prestigious magazine (we all know it's easy to get freelance writing gigs with no experience, insert sarcasm ;-)).
The realist I grumbled at times at all the opportunities that came Amelia's way, especially when it came to certain work experience areas that are difficult to get into even as a volunteer.
Who doesn't love a good heroine growth journey, right? This one had plenty of growth, to the point that Amelia became a completely new person - nobody changes that much, and certain traits and characteristics are ingrained, otherwise, we'd all be perfect if changing was that easy.
It's not all fluff, there is also a family secret. The love interest dude was OK.
This has the makings of a nice rom-com or a mini-series.
January 7, 2025
A predictable, but feel-good rom-com. Along with the humour, the author subtly introduced a few life lessons, such as when Amelia realised she needed to look at life from different perspectives and not judge others for not acting the way she wished.
A fun read.
No evacuation plan, no safety net. Amelia's quitting the daily grind to find her fantasy job. But a shocking secret from the past shows her that where there's smoke, there's fire ... And sometimes you just have to save yourself. Amelia Harris has played it safe all her life - but when a minor accident lands her in hospital, she dramatically quits the tedious office job she's had for a decade. At a loss at what she wants to do next - and fast running out of cash - Amelia tries her hand at the dream jobs she's always fantasized about. Soon she's shadowing a thrilling cast of characters and professions - as a journalist, a florist, a wedding planner, a zookeeper, and more. Life couldn't be more exciting, especially when she meets the man of her dreams. But when her mother, Toni, drops a truth bomb about their family, Amelia's whole world tilts on its axis. Meanwhile, each new job starts taking on a life of its own. Has she created a monster? As she's about to find out, where there's smoke, there's fire, and sometimes you just have to save yourself. A hilarious, big-hearted story about second chances from the author of Terms of Inheritance.
A fun read.
No evacuation plan, no safety net. Amelia's quitting the daily grind to find her fantasy job. But a shocking secret from the past shows her that where there's smoke, there's fire ... And sometimes you just have to save yourself. Amelia Harris has played it safe all her life - but when a minor accident lands her in hospital, she dramatically quits the tedious office job she's had for a decade. At a loss at what she wants to do next - and fast running out of cash - Amelia tries her hand at the dream jobs she's always fantasized about. Soon she's shadowing a thrilling cast of characters and professions - as a journalist, a florist, a wedding planner, a zookeeper, and more. Life couldn't be more exciting, especially when she meets the man of her dreams. But when her mother, Toni, drops a truth bomb about their family, Amelia's whole world tilts on its axis. Meanwhile, each new job starts taking on a life of its own. Has she created a monster? As she's about to find out, where there's smoke, there's fire, and sometimes you just have to save yourself. A hilarious, big-hearted story about second chances from the author of Terms of Inheritance.
December 22, 2023
35 year old accountant Amelia's life is filled with routine and predictability. She sublets a room from her high flying best friend, deals with her flaky mother, and is frustrated by her mundane office job.
One day, she is knocked over by an e-scooter and hospitalised. Following this, in an out of character moment, she has an outburst at work where she publicly vents her frustrations towards her work colleagues for a range of reasonably trivial offences and quits her job.
Emergency Exit Only follows Amelia's quest to find a job that brings her passion in a series of work experience opportunities. She is forced to return to her childhood home to live with her mother to make ends meet and uncovers family secrets along the way.
While I enjoyed Michelle Upton's previous book, this one didn't live up to my expectations. I found it implausible that Amelia, with her highly risk-averse personality, stable accounting job, and no hobbies, debts, or significant expenses, would have literally no savings to fall back.
While the book had funny and interesting moments as Amelia steps out of her comfort zone, unfortunately, it also felt predictable and convenient, especially the romance subplot. It did explore some serious topics, including mental health and what makes a meaningful life.
Overall, it was a light and easy read. 3 stars.
One day, she is knocked over by an e-scooter and hospitalised. Following this, in an out of character moment, she has an outburst at work where she publicly vents her frustrations towards her work colleagues for a range of reasonably trivial offences and quits her job.
Emergency Exit Only follows Amelia's quest to find a job that brings her passion in a series of work experience opportunities. She is forced to return to her childhood home to live with her mother to make ends meet and uncovers family secrets along the way.
While I enjoyed Michelle Upton's previous book, this one didn't live up to my expectations. I found it implausible that Amelia, with her highly risk-averse personality, stable accounting job, and no hobbies, debts, or significant expenses, would have literally no savings to fall back.
While the book had funny and interesting moments as Amelia steps out of her comfort zone, unfortunately, it also felt predictable and convenient, especially the romance subplot. It did explore some serious topics, including mental health and what makes a meaningful life.
Overall, it was a light and easy read. 3 stars.
March 4, 2024
⭐️ 4 ⭐️
Emergency Exit Only
Plot:
Amelia quits her job suddenly. She tries her hand at various jobs to see if her career can bring her more joy. Amelia falls in love. Her mother expose a family secret to her. Amelia’s life falls apart but she is determined to make it whole again.
Fiction | Australian Author | Romance
My Thoughts:
What I Liked:
↠ Michelle Upton has a talent for portraying family dynamics in a way that feel true and authentic. She has complex characters and tells their story in a simple way. Amelia was so charming and easy to love.
↠ This was an easy read. It was fast-paced and straight to the point which I absolutely loved.
↠ Upton, brings a complex mental health issue to surface and navigates Amelia’s feelings about it in a way that gives the issue the justice and respect that it deserves.
Overall
I would have easily read this in two days if I could. Definitely a great book to smash through to reach your reading goal.
Emergency Exit Only
Plot:
Amelia quits her job suddenly. She tries her hand at various jobs to see if her career can bring her more joy. Amelia falls in love. Her mother expose a family secret to her. Amelia’s life falls apart but she is determined to make it whole again.
Fiction | Australian Author | Romance
My Thoughts:
What I Liked:
↠ Michelle Upton has a talent for portraying family dynamics in a way that feel true and authentic. She has complex characters and tells their story in a simple way. Amelia was so charming and easy to love.
↠ This was an easy read. It was fast-paced and straight to the point which I absolutely loved.
↠ Upton, brings a complex mental health issue to surface and navigates Amelia’s feelings about it in a way that gives the issue the justice and respect that it deserves.
Overall
I would have easily read this in two days if I could. Definitely a great book to smash through to reach your reading goal.
January 21, 2024
I thought this book started a bit slow and was initially bored with it, but maybe that was deliberate on the part of the author.
Amelia is in a repetitive boring but safe job constantly having bad thoughts about her work colleagues. She watches a door with an emergency exit sign on it and wonders what is on the other side of that door and what would happen if she went through it. Does she dare go through that door?
This book is a great read because many can relate to not being brave enough to step outside their comfort zone and try something new. Michelle takes us on a discovery tour with Amelia as she tries different jobs to test the waters and see if one is a good fit. She meets others along the way and her life takes some unexpected twists. She also learns a secret from her Mum that makes her rethink some things.
All in all it is a good book.
Amelia is in a repetitive boring but safe job constantly having bad thoughts about her work colleagues. She watches a door with an emergency exit sign on it and wonders what is on the other side of that door and what would happen if she went through it. Does she dare go through that door?
This book is a great read because many can relate to not being brave enough to step outside their comfort zone and try something new. Michelle takes us on a discovery tour with Amelia as she tries different jobs to test the waters and see if one is a good fit. She meets others along the way and her life takes some unexpected twists. She also learns a secret from her Mum that makes her rethink some things.
All in all it is a good book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2023
I raced through this funny, heart-warming story about stepping outside your comfort zone!
Brisbane woman Amelia Harris has played it safe all her life. Suffering from social anxiety and various compulsions, she works as an accountant and is a creature of habit, living a quiet, ordered life until an accident turns everything upside down. Amelia is an adorable and highly relatable main character who really grows during the course of the story.
Despite the humour, some deep themes are covered: happiness and the purpose of life. The novel is set in my home state of sunny Queensland. I loved all the mentions of local places.
Funny, heart-warming and thought-provoking with a deeply satisfying ending. A perfect beach read!
Brisbane woman Amelia Harris has played it safe all her life. Suffering from social anxiety and various compulsions, she works as an accountant and is a creature of habit, living a quiet, ordered life until an accident turns everything upside down. Amelia is an adorable and highly relatable main character who really grows during the course of the story.
Despite the humour, some deep themes are covered: happiness and the purpose of life. The novel is set in my home state of sunny Queensland. I loved all the mentions of local places.
Funny, heart-warming and thought-provoking with a deeply satisfying ending. A perfect beach read!
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