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The Best Life Book Club
It started as a book club. It became a way to build a better life together.
Karissa Newcomb is ready for a new start in a new neighborhood, as far away as she can get from Seattle, where her husband cheated on her with the neighbor who was supposed to be her best friend. She and her nine-year-old daughter are moving on to the city of Gig Harbor on the bay in Puget Sound. She even has a new job as an assistant at a small publishing company right in Gig Harbor. Her new boss seems like a bit of a curmudgeon, but a job is a job, she loves to read, and the idea of possibly meeting writers sounds fabulous.
Soon she finds she’s not the only one in need of a refresh. Her new neighbors, Alice and Margot, are dealing with their own crises. Alice is still grieving her late husband and hasn’t been able to get behind the wheel of a car since a close call after his death. Margot is floundering after getting divorced and laid off in quick succession. They could all use a distraction, and a book club seems like just the ticket. Together, the three women, along with Alice’s grumpy older sister, Josie, embark on a literary journey that just might be the kick start they need to begin building their best lives yet.
Karissa Newcomb is ready for a new start in a new neighborhood, as far away as she can get from Seattle, where her husband cheated on her with the neighbor who was supposed to be her best friend. She and her nine-year-old daughter are moving on to the city of Gig Harbor on the bay in Puget Sound. She even has a new job as an assistant at a small publishing company right in Gig Harbor. Her new boss seems like a bit of a curmudgeon, but a job is a job, she loves to read, and the idea of possibly meeting writers sounds fabulous.
Soon she finds she’s not the only one in need of a refresh. Her new neighbors, Alice and Margot, are dealing with their own crises. Alice is still grieving her late husband and hasn’t been able to get behind the wheel of a car since a close call after his death. Margot is floundering after getting divorced and laid off in quick succession. They could all use a distraction, and a book club seems like just the ticket. Together, the three women, along with Alice’s grumpy older sister, Josie, embark on a literary journey that just might be the kick start they need to begin building their best lives yet.
380 pages, ebook
First published May 7, 2024
481 people are currently reading
5800 people want to read
About the author
Sheila Roberts
109 books1,984 followersWith fifty books to her credit, both fiction and non-fiction, Sheila Roberts is a frequent USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller - and a fan favorite. Her books have sold over three million copies and have been turned into movies for the Hallmark, Lifetime and Great American Family channels. Before settling into her writing career, Sheila owned a singing telegram company and played in band. When she's not traveling, Sheila can be found hanging out with friends, playing tennis, and, of course, writing and reading. Sometimes she even remembers to post books she's read!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 762 reviews
June 15, 2024
3.75⭐️
The Best Life Book Club by Sheila Roberts is a charming story that revolves around themes of friendship, community, the healing power of books and most importantly, starting over.
As the story begins, newly divorced Karissa Newcomb moves into her new home in Gig Harbor, Washington, with her nine-year-old daughter. Karissa’s move from Seattle also involves a new job at a publishing house. Karissa is welcomed to the neighborhood by her kind neighbor, Alice, a widow in her late fifties and forty-year-old divorcee Margot, who is out of work after being laid off. Karissa finds herself enjoying their company and they eventually start a book club along with Alice’s cantankerous older sister Josie. Needless to say, with each of the members facing their own set of difficulties, their discussions about the books they read soon turn into heartfelt conversations about their own lives with each of them sharing their own troubles and wisdom, inspiring one another to effect positive changes.
The author does a wonderful job of depicting female friendships – the camaraderie between the friends and how they support one another – with kindness and honesty. Each of these women is quite different –in terms of both life experiences and personality - and it was fun to see how they grew to respect and care for one another. It was interesting how each of their own life experiences and varying perspectives helped the others deal with their own challenges. I enjoyed the descriptions of Karissa’s experiences at work and the peek into life at a publishing company. The romance angle in the narrative is light and does not distract from the primary narrative, which is a plus point for me.
The author touches upon several sensitive themes – infidelity, betrayal, bereavement professional struggles and complicated family dynamics, among others, with heart and humor, making for a light-hearted read despite the heavy themes. I would have liked had these topics been explored with a bit more emotional depth. The ending was a bit too neatly tied up, but that was to be expected.
Overall, with a cast of endearing characters and engaging storylines woven into a fluid narrative, I found this to be an entertaining and heartwarming read.
Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on May 7, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
The Best Life Book Club by Sheila Roberts is a charming story that revolves around themes of friendship, community, the healing power of books and most importantly, starting over.
As the story begins, newly divorced Karissa Newcomb moves into her new home in Gig Harbor, Washington, with her nine-year-old daughter. Karissa’s move from Seattle also involves a new job at a publishing house. Karissa is welcomed to the neighborhood by her kind neighbor, Alice, a widow in her late fifties and forty-year-old divorcee Margot, who is out of work after being laid off. Karissa finds herself enjoying their company and they eventually start a book club along with Alice’s cantankerous older sister Josie. Needless to say, with each of the members facing their own set of difficulties, their discussions about the books they read soon turn into heartfelt conversations about their own lives with each of them sharing their own troubles and wisdom, inspiring one another to effect positive changes.
The author does a wonderful job of depicting female friendships – the camaraderie between the friends and how they support one another – with kindness and honesty. Each of these women is quite different –in terms of both life experiences and personality - and it was fun to see how they grew to respect and care for one another. It was interesting how each of their own life experiences and varying perspectives helped the others deal with their own challenges. I enjoyed the descriptions of Karissa’s experiences at work and the peek into life at a publishing company. The romance angle in the narrative is light and does not distract from the primary narrative, which is a plus point for me.
The author touches upon several sensitive themes – infidelity, betrayal, bereavement professional struggles and complicated family dynamics, among others, with heart and humor, making for a light-hearted read despite the heavy themes. I would have liked had these topics been explored with a bit more emotional depth. The ending was a bit too neatly tied up, but that was to be expected.
Overall, with a cast of endearing characters and engaging storylines woven into a fluid narrative, I found this to be an entertaining and heartwarming read.
Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on May 7, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
May 31, 2024
The Best Life Book Club by Sheila Roberts
Contemporary chick lit, and romance.
Karissa Newcomb and her daughter move to Gig Harbor for a restart. Karissa is freshly divorced and hoping this new town will re-energize their lives. She meets Alice and Margot in her new neighborhood and realizes they could all use a boost. Since they all love reading, they form a book club and invite Josie along and soon the four have formed a special friendship.
Each of the women have their own lives, loves and problems, but together, they support and listen.
It’s difficult to find new friends over school age and this book is a great proponent of finding and creating your own circles that can add to the richness of your living. Three romances, lots of extended family and issues. One book club.
It’s a wonderful story that had me laughing and crying along the way.
I had an ebook and a paperback to follow the different women and their storylines. I’m not sure an audiobook for this one would be an effective method given the multiple couples.
The chapter headings are supposedly quotes from books that may apply to the chapter itself but they are, in fact, totally fabricated by the author. Many of the quotes are spoken from a recurring character from prior novels. Kind of an Easter egg for the readers.
Engaging and endearing.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Contemporary chick lit, and romance.
Karissa Newcomb and her daughter move to Gig Harbor for a restart. Karissa is freshly divorced and hoping this new town will re-energize their lives. She meets Alice and Margot in her new neighborhood and realizes they could all use a boost. Since they all love reading, they form a book club and invite Josie along and soon the four have formed a special friendship.
Each of the women have their own lives, loves and problems, but together, they support and listen.
It’s difficult to find new friends over school age and this book is a great proponent of finding and creating your own circles that can add to the richness of your living. Three romances, lots of extended family and issues. One book club.
It’s a wonderful story that had me laughing and crying along the way.
I had an ebook and a paperback to follow the different women and their storylines. I’m not sure an audiobook for this one would be an effective method given the multiple couples.
The chapter headings are supposedly quotes from books that may apply to the chapter itself but they are, in fact, totally fabricated by the author. Many of the quotes are spoken from a recurring character from prior novels. Kind of an Easter egg for the readers.
Engaging and endearing.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
July 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I always enjoy a book based on libraries, books and bookshops.The story and the delightful characters was a perfect hot summer quick read.
I always enjoy a book based on libraries, books and bookshops.The story and the delightful characters was a perfect hot summer quick read.
May 6, 2024
The Best Life Book Club by Sheila Roberts is a women’s fiction novel that not only focuses on romance but friendship, healing and personal growth for the characters. The story in The Best Life Book Club is one that is told by changing the point of view between the characters.
Karissa Newcomb packed up her daughter and herself to move away from Seattle to a new start in Gig Harbor on the bay in Puget Sound. Karissa had caught her husband with her neighbor who she thought was a really good friend so getting out of that city was the only way she knew to cope with both losses in her life.
Upon arriving in Gig Harbor Karissa begins a new job as an assistant at a small publishing company where she enjoys getting to know the authors and her new boss. Karissa also meets new neighbors, Alice and Margot, who have their own life’s dilemmas they are dealing with but the ladies all suggest forming a book club of their own to spend getting to know one another and escape their troubles.
Sheila Roberts is another author that has many many books out there and from those that I have read I always find myself enjoying the story and character. The Best Life Book Club was no exception to that fact with really four stories to follow along with each of the ladies that all had a little humor and a lot of heart and of course this one should appeal to the readers with the story focusing around just that, reading. Definitely an author I will continue to return to in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Karissa Newcomb packed up her daughter and herself to move away from Seattle to a new start in Gig Harbor on the bay in Puget Sound. Karissa had caught her husband with her neighbor who she thought was a really good friend so getting out of that city was the only way she knew to cope with both losses in her life.
Upon arriving in Gig Harbor Karissa begins a new job as an assistant at a small publishing company where she enjoys getting to know the authors and her new boss. Karissa also meets new neighbors, Alice and Margot, who have their own life’s dilemmas they are dealing with but the ladies all suggest forming a book club of their own to spend getting to know one another and escape their troubles.
Sheila Roberts is another author that has many many books out there and from those that I have read I always find myself enjoying the story and character. The Best Life Book Club was no exception to that fact with really four stories to follow along with each of the ladies that all had a little humor and a lot of heart and of course this one should appeal to the readers with the story focusing around just that, reading. Definitely an author I will continue to return to in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 26, 2024
I can't believe I am doing this...the second book in a row that I am going to DNF. I especially don't like to do this with ARCs because I was gifted a book in return for my review and I feel it is my obligation to see it through to the end and give it a fair chance. But I just couldn't make myself go another page deeper. This is my first book by this author. I was about 20% in and really struggling when I looked her up. Immediately I knew what my problem was with this book. She is an older author at 71 years old. I just don't care for the writing styles of most older adult authors in this genre. I find them stiff and old-fashioned.
I am honestly having a hard time finding a positive here. I liked the setting…anything Pacific Northwest usually draws me right in. Outside of that, I have nothing. I felt the plot and the characters were both sorely lacking. The plot was shallow. Scenes were skimmed over. There wasn't a lot of detail. The transition between character perspectives was clunky and it threw off the flow of the story. There would be a lot of time spent on mundane parts that really made no contribution to the story, such as detailed accounts of Karissa's work day; however, other parts were glossed over, often jumping from one day to several days later. I just didn't get it.
I felt that most of the characters lacked a true identity. They had little to no personality. They felt stiff and formal and their portrayed age did not match up with their actual age. When Alice was introduced, I assumed she was in her late 60’s or early 70’s, so imagine my surprise when the author tells me that she is 57…only 10 years older than I currently am. On the other hand, Macy is supposed to be a 9 year old but she comes off as much younger. Her first day of school scene had me thinking she was in kindergarten or first grade. Karissa also treated her as if she was much younger. I also felt that the interactions between the characters just did not feel authentic. They felt superficial and forced. The dialogue felt unnatural and did not have an easy flow to it. No one under 60 talks like the characters in this book. No one says things like "doofy dog" or "posse" or "I didn't mean to frighten the whiskers off of you." What does that even mean? I also hated the names of some of these characters. They sounded like medications...Allegra, Lystra, Emerald. I felt like the author was trying to be young and hip but it did not work for me.
I made it to chapter 7 - 24% and just couldn't do it anymore. There are too many good books sitting out there to spend time on one that just doesn't interest me or make me happy. This may be the perfect read for someone else but this reader is not the right audience for this book.
I am honestly having a hard time finding a positive here. I liked the setting…anything Pacific Northwest usually draws me right in. Outside of that, I have nothing. I felt the plot and the characters were both sorely lacking. The plot was shallow. Scenes were skimmed over. There wasn't a lot of detail. The transition between character perspectives was clunky and it threw off the flow of the story. There would be a lot of time spent on mundane parts that really made no contribution to the story, such as detailed accounts of Karissa's work day; however, other parts were glossed over, often jumping from one day to several days later. I just didn't get it.
I felt that most of the characters lacked a true identity. They had little to no personality. They felt stiff and formal and their portrayed age did not match up with their actual age. When Alice was introduced, I assumed she was in her late 60’s or early 70’s, so imagine my surprise when the author tells me that she is 57…only 10 years older than I currently am. On the other hand, Macy is supposed to be a 9 year old but she comes off as much younger. Her first day of school scene had me thinking she was in kindergarten or first grade. Karissa also treated her as if she was much younger. I also felt that the interactions between the characters just did not feel authentic. They felt superficial and forced. The dialogue felt unnatural and did not have an easy flow to it. No one under 60 talks like the characters in this book. No one says things like "doofy dog" or "posse" or "I didn't mean to frighten the whiskers off of you." What does that even mean? I also hated the names of some of these characters. They sounded like medications...Allegra, Lystra, Emerald. I felt like the author was trying to be young and hip but it did not work for me.
I made it to chapter 7 - 24% and just couldn't do it anymore. There are too many good books sitting out there to spend time on one that just doesn't interest me or make me happy. This may be the perfect read for someone else but this reader is not the right audience for this book.
June 18, 2024
The Best Life Book Club by Sheila Roberts made my heart so happy and while it is only the second book of hers I have read, it is also my new favorite! I loved how Roberts dove into each character's life and how well we got to know each one along with their triumphs and struggles. The friendships and romance were touching and real, and the story is bookish beyond the book club which I loved. Karissa, Alice, Margot, and Alice’s sister Josie were all unique and well-characterized which made it easy to keep them all straight. Plus, their interactions provided lots of laugh-out-loud moments, even some I wasn't expecting.
The audiobook is narrated by Ann Marie Gideon, and I can't say enough good things about her narration. She did a wonderful job will all of the different viewpoints, and at times it felt like I was listening to more than one narrator! I would 100% recommend the audio for how talented she was, and I think it made the characters and emotional moments feel that much more vivid. The Best Life Book Club was a #BookstagramMadeMeDoIt that I went into totally blind, and it worked out perfectly for me. Roberts's articulate writing style combined with her blend of humor, wit, and emotional subject matters made for the perfect combo here and I loved everything about it. I would even go so far as to call it a lovely comfort read. 😉
The audiobook is narrated by Ann Marie Gideon, and I can't say enough good things about her narration. She did a wonderful job will all of the different viewpoints, and at times it felt like I was listening to more than one narrator! I would 100% recommend the audio for how talented she was, and I think it made the characters and emotional moments feel that much more vivid. The Best Life Book Club was a #BookstagramMadeMeDoIt that I went into totally blind, and it worked out perfectly for me. Roberts's articulate writing style combined with her blend of humor, wit, and emotional subject matters made for the perfect combo here and I loved everything about it. I would even go so far as to call it a lovely comfort read. 😉
February 29, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of The Best Life Book Club by Sheila Roberts.
This book is about starting over and second chances. The main character Karissa is dealing with betrayal from her husband and best friend. Karissa and her daughter Macy move from Seattle to Gig Harbor, WA to start over. In the beginning they are both dealing with being lonely and sadness of losing friends. Slowly they both find new friends.
The book dealt a lot with moving on, trusting others, feeling better about yourself, forgiveness, trying new things, standing up for yourself, and finding true friendships. Not everything turned out all sunshine and rainbows, but there were promises of better times ahead.
I am not sure if it was how the book was laid out in Kindle...but I had a hard time with how the book bounced from one person to the next. I felt like I was constantly in someone else head.
This book is about starting over and second chances. The main character Karissa is dealing with betrayal from her husband and best friend. Karissa and her daughter Macy move from Seattle to Gig Harbor, WA to start over. In the beginning they are both dealing with being lonely and sadness of losing friends. Slowly they both find new friends.
The book dealt a lot with moving on, trusting others, feeling better about yourself, forgiveness, trying new things, standing up for yourself, and finding true friendships. Not everything turned out all sunshine and rainbows, but there were promises of better times ahead.
I am not sure if it was how the book was laid out in Kindle...but I had a hard time with how the book bounced from one person to the next. I felt like I was constantly in someone else head.
March 17, 2024
⟼ 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'s
┈↠ Pre-Read ↞┈
Karissa Newcomb is making a new life in a new neighborhood after her husband cheated on her with their neighbor and her ex-bestfriend. Karissa moves out of Seattle and to Gig Harbor with her nine year old daughter, and lands a job at a small publishing company! As an avid reader, she is in love with this job and sees this as a fresh page in her book of life.
Her neighbors in Gig Harbor are also dealing with major life changes, Alice is dealing with the death of her husband and the love of her life, while also struggling to get back in the car after a bad accident. Margot is dealing with a divorce and losing her job, all the while she has a nagging mother who wants to make sure her daughter won't be unemployed for long.
Josie, Alice's older sister, is struggling in her relationship with her daughter due to them not seeing eye-to-eye about her husband.
All in all, I set this book on my shelf for too long because I wasn't feeling like a slice-of-life read. I finally started this book, and I couldn't stop turning the page!
I became so immersed in the characters' lives that I felt like I was a part of their group, and I couldn't stop turning the pages to find out how their lives turned out
┈↠ Review ↞┈
I got so absorbed in this book and the characters' lives. Sheila Robert does an amazing job of writing real-life scenarios and creating characters that everyone can relate to. I wasn't expecting romance in this book, I was expecting four women making a book club and talking about their problems, but this book was so much more than that. These woman leaned on each other and all grew in their own way, the book takes turns going from each pov. Each unique character offers insights into their lives and their struggles. Alongside this, there is a slight romance, that is realistic, and not overbearing like most romances.
THIS BOOK COMES OUT MAY 7TH!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ IT!!!
Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for approving me for this ARC! I'm very grateful for this book and to get the chance to hype it up for others to read! I've enjoyed every minute of reading this book and can't wait to promote the heck out of it before may 7th
┈↠ Pre-Read ↞┈
Karissa Newcomb is making a new life in a new neighborhood after her husband cheated on her with their neighbor and her ex-bestfriend. Karissa moves out of Seattle and to Gig Harbor with her nine year old daughter, and lands a job at a small publishing company! As an avid reader, she is in love with this job and sees this as a fresh page in her book of life.
Her neighbors in Gig Harbor are also dealing with major life changes, Alice is dealing with the death of her husband and the love of her life, while also struggling to get back in the car after a bad accident. Margot is dealing with a divorce and losing her job, all the while she has a nagging mother who wants to make sure her daughter won't be unemployed for long.
Josie, Alice's older sister, is struggling in her relationship with her daughter due to them not seeing eye-to-eye about her husband.
All in all, I set this book on my shelf for too long because I wasn't feeling like a slice-of-life read. I finally started this book, and I couldn't stop turning the page!
I became so immersed in the characters' lives that I felt like I was a part of their group, and I couldn't stop turning the pages to find out how their lives turned out
┈↠ Review ↞┈
I got so absorbed in this book and the characters' lives. Sheila Robert does an amazing job of writing real-life scenarios and creating characters that everyone can relate to. I wasn't expecting romance in this book, I was expecting four women making a book club and talking about their problems, but this book was so much more than that. These woman leaned on each other and all grew in their own way, the book takes turns going from each pov. Each unique character offers insights into their lives and their struggles. Alongside this, there is a slight romance, that is realistic, and not overbearing like most romances.
THIS BOOK COMES OUT MAY 7TH!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ IT!!!
May 12, 2024
The Best Life Book Club by Sheila Roberts:
This is a charming, and often funny, PG-rated, character-based love letter to fans of books and reading. I enjoyed getting to know the 4 main characters, Karissa, Margot, Alice, and Josie. They form an unlikely book club when newly divorced Karissa moves to their neighborhood. In time they each find the right book at the right time to help them heal their individual wounds. I was invested in their stories and became hopeful that everyone in the group would be given a happy ending. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is a charming, and often funny, PG-rated, character-based love letter to fans of books and reading. I enjoyed getting to know the 4 main characters, Karissa, Margot, Alice, and Josie. They form an unlikely book club when newly divorced Karissa moves to their neighborhood. In time they each find the right book at the right time to help them heal their individual wounds. I was invested in their stories and became hopeful that everyone in the group would be given a happy ending. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2024
It started as a book club. It became a way to build a better life together.
I love books about books and book clubs! Throw in found family and I’m hooked! This book focuses on female friendship and how to move on when something unexpected happens in life.
The book tells the story of four women who come together to form not only a book club, but lifelong friendships as well. Karissa moves to Bainbridge Island with her daughter after her divorce. Being new in town she befriends her neighbors Alice, who is recently widowed, and Margot, who recently got divorced and lost her job. These ladies start a book club and invite Alice’s cranky sister, Josie to join them.
I enjoyed this heartfelt book and thought the author did a great job of intertwining these ladies lives. The book club meetings reminded me of my local book club, and I loved all of the references to books. The way these women supported each other was lovely, and I liked that each one found their happy ending even if it wasn’t what they were hoping for in the beginning. There is some romance in the story, but it doesn’t overshadow the women’s lives and fits in naturally with the story. I enjoyed each of these women, and could see this book turning into a series.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted and feel good story about female friendship then check this book out. This was my first book by Roberts, and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
Thank you to the author and Uplit Reads for a gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
I love books about books and book clubs! Throw in found family and I’m hooked! This book focuses on female friendship and how to move on when something unexpected happens in life.
The book tells the story of four women who come together to form not only a book club, but lifelong friendships as well. Karissa moves to Bainbridge Island with her daughter after her divorce. Being new in town she befriends her neighbors Alice, who is recently widowed, and Margot, who recently got divorced and lost her job. These ladies start a book club and invite Alice’s cranky sister, Josie to join them.
I enjoyed this heartfelt book and thought the author did a great job of intertwining these ladies lives. The book club meetings reminded me of my local book club, and I loved all of the references to books. The way these women supported each other was lovely, and I liked that each one found their happy ending even if it wasn’t what they were hoping for in the beginning. There is some romance in the story, but it doesn’t overshadow the women’s lives and fits in naturally with the story. I enjoyed each of these women, and could see this book turning into a series.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted and feel good story about female friendship then check this book out. This was my first book by Roberts, and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
Thank you to the author and Uplit Reads for a gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 1, 2024
Book lovers are going to enjoy the literary references woven into this story about a book club being just what these women need! Karissa, Alice, Margot & Josie start a book club. Initially bonded over reading, the group quickly falls into the friendship category. Their first book club selection is a self-help book, setting the tone of personal growth. Each woman embarks on a personal journey towards a fresh start.
I wanted to love this much more than I did. My favorite parts were the book club and references to other books. I enjoyed the characters, but it switched point of view at unexpected times so it was hard to keep all straight. There were so many characters because you were reading about four women’s lives all on a self journey unrelated to any of the other women. I liked Karissa’s storyline the most.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced release copy in exchange for an honest review.
Releases on May 7, 2024.
I wanted to love this much more than I did. My favorite parts were the book club and references to other books. I enjoyed the characters, but it switched point of view at unexpected times so it was hard to keep all straight. There were so many characters because you were reading about four women’s lives all on a self journey unrelated to any of the other women. I liked Karissa’s storyline the most.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced release copy in exchange for an honest review.
Releases on May 7, 2024.
January 13, 2024
My first ARC gifted book and what a great one to read! Friendships, personal growth, relationships, and work are all tied together and centered around a book club. My favorite were the quotes at the beginning of the chapter, as well as throughout the novel that added humor or warmth to sad situations. The ending was perfect!
May 17, 2025
I love humor in a book. Josie and Gerald made me laugh. And happy endings ! Yay.
Admittedly I did a quick skip read .. but I really needed that good laugh .. thank you author.
Admittedly I did a quick skip read .. but I really needed that good laugh .. thank you author.
April 20, 2024
The cover of this book is very appealing and the description of the story was interesting to me. I found this book to be an entertaining and ok read.
I liked all four main characters in this book. It was easy to empathize with Karissa, Margot, Alice and Josie as they dealt with the issues in their lives. The secondary characters all added to the story. I would have liked more with Shirley and Andre though.
The story's pace was ok but there were some awkward jumps between characters. Perhaps that is due to the layout of the eARC and won't seem so awkward in the final edition. I just found it to interrupt the flow of the story a little bit.
Overall this was an enjoyable story and, for the most part, easy to read. Similar in style to Debbie Macomber so if you are a fan of hers you will enjoy this book.
3.5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
I liked all four main characters in this book. It was easy to empathize with Karissa, Margot, Alice and Josie as they dealt with the issues in their lives. The secondary characters all added to the story. I would have liked more with Shirley and Andre though.
The story's pace was ok but there were some awkward jumps between characters. Perhaps that is due to the layout of the eARC and won't seem so awkward in the final edition. I just found it to interrupt the flow of the story a little bit.
Overall this was an enjoyable story and, for the most part, easy to read. Similar in style to Debbie Macomber so if you are a fan of hers you will enjoy this book.
3.5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.
April 30, 2024
Update: I changed it to two stars after thinking about it. This book just didn't really come together for me and was so boring to read. Now that I'm back on stuff I find interesting, I'm realized just how bad this one was.
I got this one as an ARC from NetGalley, and honestly, I didn't love it.
The story overall is ok but I struggled a lot with the writing style. It felt very juvenile and the whole book was overflowing with tropes. The main character had almost no personality (luckily other characters like Josie did). Many of the obstacles in the book don't really make sense. Karissa falls in love with her boss who she barely knows and also has no personality. Many of the obstacles either don't make sense or are overcome too easily.
Also, the book jumps from character to character often and without great breaks between the jumps. I did have an ARC so maybe some formatting was missing but it was hard to keep track of whose perspective we were on at times.
I do think the heart of the story is ok. The writing needs a lot of polish though and some of the characters need more oomph to them. I also liked the idea of the books the club read being integrated into the story but there were so many self-help books that I didn't know if they were real books or made up for this story.
I got this one as an ARC from NetGalley, and honestly, I didn't love it.
The story overall is ok but I struggled a lot with the writing style. It felt very juvenile and the whole book was overflowing with tropes. The main character had almost no personality (luckily other characters like Josie did). Many of the obstacles in the book don't really make sense. Karissa falls in love with her boss who she barely knows and also has no personality. Many of the obstacles either don't make sense or are overcome too easily.
Also, the book jumps from character to character often and without great breaks between the jumps. I did have an ARC so maybe some formatting was missing but it was hard to keep track of whose perspective we were on at times.
I do think the heart of the story is ok. The writing needs a lot of polish though and some of the characters need more oomph to them. I also liked the idea of the books the club read being integrated into the story but there were so many self-help books that I didn't know if they were real books or made up for this story.
May 20, 2024
Cozy read.
February 7, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this Advanced Reader’s Copy of The Best Life Book Club by Sheila Roberts due to be published May 7, 2024.
Karissa has just moved to Gig Harbor with nine-year-old Macy to get away from the town where her husband cheated on her with her former best friend. She has a new job with a small publishing company which is wonderful since she loves reading.
She soon meets her neighbors, Alice (who is grieving her late husband), and Margot (who recently not only got divorced, but laid off).
Needing a distraction, they decide to form a book club, along with Alice’s grouchy older sister, Josie.
I usually read thrillers, but every once in awhile stray from that genre, and I’m so glad I did.
The Best Life Book Club was a delight – I smiled a lot, laughed out loud, and cried in some places – what a fabulous book.
If you want something to make you smile long after you’ve finished reading – this book is for you – I absolutely loved it!
.#netgalley #SheilaRoberts #HarlequinTradePublishing #TheBestLifeBookClub
Karissa has just moved to Gig Harbor with nine-year-old Macy to get away from the town where her husband cheated on her with her former best friend. She has a new job with a small publishing company which is wonderful since she loves reading.
She soon meets her neighbors, Alice (who is grieving her late husband), and Margot (who recently not only got divorced, but laid off).
Needing a distraction, they decide to form a book club, along with Alice’s grouchy older sister, Josie.
I usually read thrillers, but every once in awhile stray from that genre, and I’m so glad I did.
The Best Life Book Club was a delight – I smiled a lot, laughed out loud, and cried in some places – what a fabulous book.
If you want something to make you smile long after you’ve finished reading – this book is for you – I absolutely loved it!
.#netgalley #SheilaRoberts #HarlequinTradePublishing #TheBestLifeBookClub
February 12, 2024
It's a very slow read with many characters introduced quickly. I lost interest and stopped reading at 27%
DNF
*************I received an ARC for my honest opinion from NetGalley.********************
DNF
*************I received an ARC for my honest opinion from NetGalley.********************
May 21, 2024
Every time I finish one of the authors books I always think, well that was just lovely. She writes such warm and welcoming novels with heart and I always end up with a smile on my face, a real feel good read. This follows four women who are all struggling with some aspect of their lives who all start a book club together. It quickly becomes about more than books for them and they support each other in many ways. The characters all range in age from younger mothers to women in retirement age so it gives most people a character to relate to and connect with. I loved getting to know these women and thought everyone had such a cute and fun story
May 29, 2024
I really wanted to enjoy The Best Life Book Club, hoping it would capture the charm and depth of "The Lonely Hearts Book Club". Unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. While it's a cute chick lit novel about starting over and forging friendships in the unlikeliest of crossed paths, it lacked the substance I was looking for.
The writing felt very juvenile, and the book was overflowing with clichéd tropes. The most grating aspect was the repeated toxic positivity. Instead of offering genuine insight or emotional depth, the narrative was saturated with Pinterest-worthy quotes that felt more shaming and guilt-inducing than uplifting. This "positive vibes only" mantra can be particularly grating when people are coping with situations such as financial troubles, job loss, illness, or the loss of a loved one, being told that they need to look on the bright side can seem downright cruel.
Here are some examples that highlight this issue:
“Divorce is hard, but there are worse things in life.” Yes, like war, she thought. Her own battle felt smaller as she took in the sea of grave markers where men who had lost their lives when they’d barely had a chance to live lay buried.
"Having a mother to nag you beats being an orphan, she told herself."
"No one loses all the time, Annie Wills had said in her book. Forget your losses and move forward and you’ll become a winner."
These vapid sayings kept making me cringe and really took away from any character development or growth, as they seemed hollow and overly simplistic. The narrative pushed a contradictory message that felt avoidant of genuine human emotions and prevented any real progression for the characters.
If you're looking for a light read filled with female friendships and some eye-roll-worthy tropes, you may enjoy The Best Life Book Club. However, if you prefer a more realistic, messy, and authentic story that real people can relate to, this book might not be for you. Personally, I found it lacking in the depth and realism that make a story truly resonate.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced release copy in exchange for an honest review. Releases on May 7, 2024.
The writing felt very juvenile, and the book was overflowing with clichéd tropes. The most grating aspect was the repeated toxic positivity. Instead of offering genuine insight or emotional depth, the narrative was saturated with Pinterest-worthy quotes that felt more shaming and guilt-inducing than uplifting. This "positive vibes only" mantra can be particularly grating when people are coping with situations such as financial troubles, job loss, illness, or the loss of a loved one, being told that they need to look on the bright side can seem downright cruel.
Here are some examples that highlight this issue:
“Divorce is hard, but there are worse things in life.” Yes, like war, she thought. Her own battle felt smaller as she took in the sea of grave markers where men who had lost their lives when they’d barely had a chance to live lay buried.
"Having a mother to nag you beats being an orphan, she told herself."
"No one loses all the time, Annie Wills had said in her book. Forget your losses and move forward and you’ll become a winner."
These vapid sayings kept making me cringe and really took away from any character development or growth, as they seemed hollow and overly simplistic. The narrative pushed a contradictory message that felt avoidant of genuine human emotions and prevented any real progression for the characters.
If you're looking for a light read filled with female friendships and some eye-roll-worthy tropes, you may enjoy The Best Life Book Club. However, if you prefer a more realistic, messy, and authentic story that real people can relate to, this book might not be for you. Personally, I found it lacking in the depth and realism that make a story truly resonate.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced release copy in exchange for an honest review. Releases on May 7, 2024.
March 18, 2024
I have read many books by Sheila Roberts in the past and was thrilled to be given this opportunity to read her latest book as an advance copy!
The Best Life Book Club is a heartwarming tale of resilience, friendship, and self-discovery.
I found lead character Karissa Newcomb’s journey from betrayal to empowerment both inspiring and relatable.
I enjoyed the inclusion of newfound friends who were on their own journeys as well, which led them to form their Book Club.
Author Sheila Roberts is skilled at weaving together themes of love, loss, and second chances, making this a must-read for anyone seeking a fresh start themselves or for who enjoys cheering from the sidelines!
I found this to be yet another one of Sheila‘s books that I would recommend!
Thankyou Sheila!
Charlene 📚🌸🤗 @lastnownext
The Best Life Book Club is a heartwarming tale of resilience, friendship, and self-discovery.
I found lead character Karissa Newcomb’s journey from betrayal to empowerment both inspiring and relatable.
I enjoyed the inclusion of newfound friends who were on their own journeys as well, which led them to form their Book Club.
Author Sheila Roberts is skilled at weaving together themes of love, loss, and second chances, making this a must-read for anyone seeking a fresh start themselves or for who enjoys cheering from the sidelines!
I found this to be yet another one of Sheila‘s books that I would recommend!
Thankyou Sheila!
Charlene 📚🌸🤗 @lastnownext
April 18, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was a new author for me. I requested this book because I had really enjoyed her short story in "Mistetoe Season". It was romantic and witty. However, this story was written in a different style. Very similar to Debbie Macomber's books but somehow I just couldn't really connect with the characters. I certainly liked it enough to read it all the way through but I must admit that I kept checking the percentage read to see my progress.
I'm going to try one of Roberts' earlier works and am hoping that it has the humor that I felt this story was missing.
Gah! I really don't like giving negative reviews but I wanted to be honest.
This was a new author for me. I requested this book because I had really enjoyed her short story in "Mistetoe Season". It was romantic and witty. However, this story was written in a different style. Very similar to Debbie Macomber's books but somehow I just couldn't really connect with the characters. I certainly liked it enough to read it all the way through but I must admit that I kept checking the percentage read to see my progress.
I'm going to try one of Roberts' earlier works and am hoping that it has the humor that I felt this story was missing.
Gah! I really don't like giving negative reviews but I wanted to be honest.
June 2, 2024
I’m surprised I made it through this book with its cheesy writing, cliche story lines, and idiotic dialogue. I was rolling my eyes and rushing through trying to make it end sooner. I want my time back.
May 24, 2024
I wanted to love this book so bad. Too predictable and just surface level
June 1, 2024
The Best Life Book Club is the newest book by Sheila Roberts and I enjoyed this one as much as I expected. Karissa Newcomb packed up her daughter and herself to move away from Seattle to a new start in Gig Harbor after she catches her husband with her best friend. Upon arriving in Gig Harbor Karissa begins a new job as an assistant at a small publishing company where she enjoys getting to know the authors and her new boss. She has several misunderstandings with her new boss, including hitting his car and falling down in front of him more than once. Karissa meets her new neighbors, Alice and Margot, who have their own life situations they are dealing with but the ladies all suggest forming a book club of their own to spend getting to know one another and escape their troubles. Will this new life work out for Karissa.
This book is a wonderful women's fiction book, centering on four women. Karissa, a recently divorced single mom, her neighbors, Alice, who is a widow and Margot, who is also divorced and has recently lost her job. the final woman is Alice's sister Josie, who is a sassy, opinionated and obstinate woman whose husband is deceased and she is estranged from her adult daughter and her family. I loved how the books they chose helped them see their lives in different ways and make changes that are positive for them. I also liked that they didn't all like the same books, which made it very realistic. There is romance in the story for some of the women, but it is not the main part of the story. Karissa's story was the main storyline, and I liked how she grew, became more confident and comfortable with her life. She had to forgive some, and she does that well. All the women change in some way, and begin to accept their lives, as well as move forward. I really liked Josie's story a lot. She reminded me of myself to a degree and I was happy to see her find her path to happiness. If you enjoy books dealing with friendship, personal growth with a bit of romance thrown in, you will not be disappointed with The Best Life Book Club.
This book is a wonderful women's fiction book, centering on four women. Karissa, a recently divorced single mom, her neighbors, Alice, who is a widow and Margot, who is also divorced and has recently lost her job. the final woman is Alice's sister Josie, who is a sassy, opinionated and obstinate woman whose husband is deceased and she is estranged from her adult daughter and her family. I loved how the books they chose helped them see their lives in different ways and make changes that are positive for them. I also liked that they didn't all like the same books, which made it very realistic. There is romance in the story for some of the women, but it is not the main part of the story. Karissa's story was the main storyline, and I liked how she grew, became more confident and comfortable with her life. She had to forgive some, and she does that well. All the women change in some way, and begin to accept their lives, as well as move forward. I really liked Josie's story a lot. She reminded me of myself to a degree and I was happy to see her find her path to happiness. If you enjoy books dealing with friendship, personal growth with a bit of romance thrown in, you will not be disappointed with The Best Life Book Club.
May 23, 2024
3.5 rounded up
I love a good women's fiction, second chance/starting over in midlife book. Throw in strong female friendships, a book club, insights into small press publishing/writing, single parenting and a bit of romance and this book really hit all the sweet spots for me!! Good on audio too! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: kissing only
I love a good women's fiction, second chance/starting over in midlife book. Throw in strong female friendships, a book club, insights into small press publishing/writing, single parenting and a bit of romance and this book really hit all the sweet spots for me!! Good on audio too! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: kissing only
May 24, 2024
Very different ladies coming together over books was fun!
July 31, 2024
The Best Life Book Club is one of those warm, easy to read, uplifting stories that make you laugh and cry and leave you feeling full of joy. I really enjoyed it.
May 31, 2024
Total fluff but a great book to kick off summer vacation!
May 26, 2024
TITLE: THE BEST LIFE BOOK CLUB
AUTHOR: Sheila Roberts
PUB DATE: 05.07.2024
This is one of the best uplifting story I have read recently - it is a celebration of friendships, and a joyful read overall about how books help heal and unite people.
Karissa with her daughter moves to Puget Sound for a fresh start where she starts working for a publishing company. There she meets new friends and neighbors with troubles of their own, but their book club brings them solace as they support each other through their grief and loss, and through tough times and difficulties, and also the simple joys of their new found friendship and little wins.
This is the perfect palate cleanser and a great book to read on vacation or relaxing by the pool.
AUTHOR: Sheila Roberts
PUB DATE: 05.07.2024
This is one of the best uplifting story I have read recently - it is a celebration of friendships, and a joyful read overall about how books help heal and unite people.
Karissa with her daughter moves to Puget Sound for a fresh start where she starts working for a publishing company. There she meets new friends and neighbors with troubles of their own, but their book club brings them solace as they support each other through their grief and loss, and through tough times and difficulties, and also the simple joys of their new found friendship and little wins.
This is the perfect palate cleanser and a great book to read on vacation or relaxing by the pool.
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