What Does it Feel Like?

by Sophie Kinsella

Eve is a successful novelist who wakes up one day in a hospital bed with no memory of how she got there. Her husband, never far from her side, explains that she has had an operation to remove the large, malignant tumour growing in her brain.

As Eve learns to walk, talk, and write again — and as she wrestles with her diagnosis, and how and when to explain it to her beloved children — she begins to recall what’s most important to long walks with her husband’s hand clasped firmly around her own, family game nights and always buying that dress when she sees it.

Recounted in brief anecdotes, each one is an attempt to answer the type of impossible questions recognizable to anyone navigating the labyrinth of grief. This extraordinary novella is a celebration of life, shot through with warmth and humour – it will both break your heart and put it back together again.<

‘What Does It Feel Like? is fiction, but it is my most autobiographical work to date. Eve’s story is my story.’ — Sophie Kinsella

Genres: Fiction, Audiobook, Contemporary, Romance, Novella, Chick Lit, Adult

109 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 8, 2024

About the author

Sophie Kinsella has sold over 40 million copies of her books in more than 60 countries, and she has been translated into over 40 languages.

Sophie Kinsella first hit the UK bestseller lists in September 2000 with her first novel in the Shopaholic series – The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic (also published as Confessions of a Shopaholic). The book’s heroine, Becky Bloomwood – a fun and feisty financial journalist who loves shopping but is hopeless with money – captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Becky has since featured in seven further bestselling books, Shopaholic Abroad (also published as Shopaholic Takes Manhattan), Shopaholic Ties the Knot, Shopaholic & Sister, Shopaholic & Baby, Mini Shopaholic, Shopaholic to the Stars and Shopaholic to the Rescue. Becky Bloomwood came to the big screen in 2009 with the hit Disney movie Confessions of a Shopaholic, starring Isla Fisher and Hugh Dancy.

Sophie has also written seven standalone novels which have all been bestsellers in the UK, USA and other countries around the world: Can You Keep A Secret?, The Undomestic Goddess, Remember Me?, Twenties Girl, I’ve Got Your Number, Wedding Night, and My Not So Perfect Life, which was a Goodreads Choice Awards finalist for Best Fiction in 2017.

In 2014 she published a Young Adult novel Finding Audrey about a teenage girl with social anxiety and her madcap family, and in January 2018, Sophie published her first illustrated book for young readers about the charming adventures of a mother-daughter fairy duo, Mummy Fairy and Me (also published as Fairy Mom and Me).

Sophie’s latest novel, Surprise Me, published in February 2018, presents a humorous yet moving portrait of a marriage—its intricacies, comforts, and complications. Surprise Me reveals that hidden layers in a close relationship are often yet to be discovered.

Sophie wrote her first novel under her real name, Madeleine Wickham, at the tender age of 24, whilst she was working as a financial journalist. The Tennis Party was immediately hailed as a success by critics and the public alike and became a top ten bestseller. She went on to publish six more novels as Madeleine Wickham: A Desirable Residence, Swimming Pool Sunday, The Gatecrasher, The Wedding Girl, Cocktails for Three and Sleeping Arrangements.

Sophie was born in London. She studied music at New College, Oxford, but after a year switched to Politics, Philosophy and Economics. She now lives in London, UK, with her husband and family.


Visit Sophie's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SophieKinsell...

Series:
* Shopaholic

Reviews

[Nilufer Ozmekik · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's tough to review Sophie Kinsella’s latest autobiographical book without feeling as though daggers are stabbing into your heart, with tears streaming down your cheeks, and barely holding yourself back from choking up.

What surprised me, however, was that despite honestly fictionalizing her own life story and changing some sequences of events, she never loses her positive outlook. This has always made me adore her novels, along with her amazingly unique sense of humor. There were several times when I laughed so hard I nearly fell off the couch and peed myself (which is why I always wear adult diapers before starting her books, just in case).

The chapters about her eight-hour brain surgery after being diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma, dealing with short-term amnesia, learning to talk again, and using a Zimmer frame to walk without falling are hard to absorb. Yet, her uplifting writing tone—accepting things she cannot change and infusing them with honesty, optimism, and sarcasm—shows how incredible a writer she is. One particularly memorable moment is when the doctor asked her who the president was, and she jokingly replied, "Hugh Grant," before correcting herself to say he was the Minister of Foreign Affairs, which made me literally guffaw.

Two of my favorite chapters include the family Scrabble gathering and her early morning conversations with her husband.

Initially, I hesitated to start this book, fearing it would break my heart and devastate me as I read the fictionalized journey of author Eve, based on Kinsella’s own battle with a brain tumor and terminal cancer, including the entire radiotherapy and chemotherapy process. But after reading the book, I realized how wrong I was. My respect and devotion to the author only grew as I witnessed her bravery, power, and brilliant mind. Additionally, the book gave me so much hope and inspiration. I wished the author all the happy endings she highly deserves after giving her fans so many great laughs, happy tears, and immense hope that encourages them to trust themselves, believe that positive things happen, and overcome bad luck in their lives.

Her bravery and honesty inspire you to change your own life, starting with your perception. The universe needs more authors like Kinsella, who change our worlds by delivering humor and warming our hearts with full of positive possibilities. Her books have vividly colored my life with her humorous vision for the past 20 years. I love her works, adore her courage, and applaud her for doing the toughest thing: facing her fears, sharing her most private challenging moments, and pouring those feelings into her writing.

We need her words, her power of comedy, and the hope she delivers through her characters to help us keep going and embrace happiness.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/The Dial Press for sharing this meaningful journey’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts. Millions of thanks to Sophie Kinsella for bravely sharing this meaningful journey with us.

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[Shelley's Book Nook · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Reviews Can Also Be Found On:
The Book Review Crew Blog

This is a hard review to write because the book and the story are so raw, real and personal. I used to devour Kinsella's books when I was younger. I haven't read any of her newer works since 2019's I Owe You One. I wasn't aware that Kinsella was ill until this book came out. She deserves a medal for her strength and bravery and the fact that she kept her sense of humour. I love that about the book as well, both Sophie and Eve never lose their positive outlook on life...so if you're expecting a pity party or a woe-is-me story you won't find it here. Eve (and Sophie) have a wonderful support network including a loving husband.

I love the structure of the book as well, each chapter is a little antidote on going through a health crisis, it includes: telling family, all of those plastic chairs in waiting rooms and how brutal physical therapy can be. I'm so thankful Kinsella shared her story it really helped me see it from the ill person's perspective. I really admire her resilience, I applaud you, Sophie Kinsella. This book is very poignant relatable and believable. It was a hard read but a really great one too.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Does It Feel Like? written by Sophie Kinsella was such a heart breaking, beautiful, raw, poignant, powerful, and inspirational story. This is an autobiographical novella although some events and facts were changed by the author. It's so hard to review Sophie's novella without getting chocked up, but this story was so deeply moving, heart breaking, but so beautiful at the same time. I just want to take a minute to send all of my love and hugs Sophie's way. I deeply applaud Sophie for sharing her humor, bravery, and optimism with her readers. Despite fictionalizing her own life story and changing some events, Sophie never lost her light at the end of the tunnel. I had no idea Sophie had a brain tumor, but I just want to send all my love to Sophie and her family during this difficult time. Despite being diagnosed with a brain tumor, Sophie never lost her sarcasm and humorous writing. Sophie, thank YOU for sharing your powerful story with all of us, my thoughts and prayers are always with you. I never knew this novella would be so heart breaking by looking at that beautiful cover, but I sobbed reading this story more times that I can possibly count. Please do yourself a favor and grab a copy of this book immediately.

THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND RANDOM HOUSE PUBLISHING GROUP FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!

Although this is an autobiographical, names and certain events have been changed. Eve Monroe is a mother of five children and a beautiful but loving wife to her husband. Eve is a successful but lovable novelist who wakes up one day in a hospital bed with no memory of how she got there or what happened. With her husband never far from her side, Eve learns that she was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma which is a cancerous brain tumor. It took doctors and surgeons eight hours to surgically remove Eve's brain tumor. As Eve wakes up from her operation and moves forward with her everyday life, she can't remember anything, she can't write, draw, and remember her favorite Christmas carols, this is so difficult for Eve, but she never lost hope during these difficult times. As Eve slowly starts gaining her memory back she googles facts about brain tumors, some facts Eve learns are incurable and aggressive, and scary survival statistics. The most important thing Eve holds close to her heart is long walks hand in hand with her husband and her beloved children. Eve also had trouble learning how to walk and talk again, she couldn't form coherent sentences without getting her words jumbled up.

What Does It Feel Like? deserves nothing but five stars, but I feel like my review will never give this author the justice and love she deserves. I want to say the author's note was deeply heart breaking but it was super positive. Sophie, thank you for sharing your powerful journey with all of us and pouring your soul and bravery into this memorable autobiography. There were times were I laughed so hard I thought I was going to pee myself, there were times where I cried so much I didn't think my heart would be pieced back together, but with Sophie's humorous writing and hopefulness, at the end my heart was put back together again. There were so many memorable moments shared in this story, but I think the best was Eve's Scrabble family game night where she cherished time with her beautiful children, I also thought the early morning conversations with her charming husband was so touching. Despite the fears Eve had, she never lost hope, even reading the survival statistics Eve made the most of her time and never let fear take over, no matter how scared she was to face the next day, not knowing what it would bring. Despite reading this novella in one sitting, it took me a few days to get my thoughts together, but as I'm sitting her writing this review, the tears are flowing again.

[Rosh ~catching up slowly~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a Nutshell: A heartfelt novella inspired by the author’s own health scare. Not a light romcom like her other works. Heartbreaking, pragmatic, humorous, hopeful. I never thought I would recommend a Sophie Kinsella book this strongly, but never say never, right? Much recommended!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Plot Preview:

Eve Monroe has it all. She’s a successful author with a huge fan following. One of her books has even been turned into a successful Hollywood movie. She has a loving husband and five adorable children. In short, she is lucky. Perhaps, too lucky, because one day, her luck runs out. When she wakes up in bed with no memory of what happened to her, her husband explains that she had undergone an operation to remove a large tumour from her brain. Unfortunately, the tumour turned out to be malignant. As Eve comes to terms with her diagnosis and what it means for her, her family, and their future, she takes us on an emotional journey filled with heartwarming and heartwrenching moments.
The story comes to us in Eve’s first-person perspective.

I am not a Sophie Kinsella fan. To be clear, I respect her for sticking to her genre and doing a wonderful job satisfying light romcom readers. It is just that those books, with their frivolous heroines, aren’t for me. I read eight of her novels before I finally accepted that she wasn’t my cup of tea and resolved never to read her again. Why simply read a book that's not our type and then give it a negative rating, right? So this book came as a surprise addition to my reading list, and that’s mainly because it is different in style and approach to all her earlier works.

In April 2024, Kinsella revealed that she had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer in 2022. To say that I was shocked on seeing this update is an understatement. Cancer is never welcome, but to hear that someone youngish is going through this is always difficult to accept. It makes you question your own health, to wonder if you are taking everything for granted, to introspect on what you would do if you were in that position. With all my heart, I rooted for her complete recovery, especially for the sake of her five children. When I heard that she had written a novella as a semi-autobiographical version of her journey through cancer, I knew I would read one more Sophie Kinsella work, this time without any hesitation.

This book is written as a series of vignettes. Scenes from “Before” give us an insight into who Eve Monroe is, and “After” tells us of what happens after her surgery. In between the shortish chapters, the narrative is interspersed with phone conversations, messages, notes on how to get through certain events, and “early morning conversations” between Eve and her husband about their future.

This approach makes the novella even more poignant. There were many scenes when my eyes welled up. Her description of her experience is so vivid that the whole story played out like a movie in front of my eyes. The most painful to read were her introspective thoughts on what would happen to her children. This is such a real fear for moms!

Because this is autofiction, there is a strong sense of honesty and authenticity to the words. As such, it is very tough to stop picturing Sophie Kinsella as the first-person narrator, even though we know that we are hearing the journey of a fictional character named Eve; there’s so much of herself she has put into Eve. The author’s note at the end of the book reveals the extent of the overlap between fact and fiction.

I won't reveal details about the cancer itself and about Eve’s (and Sophie’s) prognosis. The author has been so successful in conveying her emotional upheaval through this novella that I would like readers to pick it up and discover her story themselves.


🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at a little under two hours, is narrated by Sally Phillips. Whatever Sophie Kinsella conveyed with her writing, Phillips does justice to with her performance, Every emotion, every dialogue, every accent is voiced brilliantly.


Much recommended to those who can handle the emotional intensity of this work. Kinsella spares no efforts to tell you “what does it feel like.” So don't read this when you are in not in a strong headspace, especially if you too are a mother with dependent kids or are a cancer patient/caregiver.

4.5 stars, happy to round upwards while sending best wishes the way of the author.

My thanks to Random House Publishing Group and The Dial Press for providing the DRC of “What Does It Feel Like?” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.


Wishing all my dear friends here a blissful, healthful, and fulfilling New Year! May 2025 rock your world in a good way! 💖🥂

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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[Canadian Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Kinsella’s devastating journey with terminal brain cancer. She did fictionalize it; however, this is her truth with the minor alterations she made to the story.
This was courageously done with grace and even some laughter.

May you continue to beat the odds and be a beacon of strength and hope for others.
4.25⭐️

[Jillian B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting and I was crying by the halfway point. Told in a series of vignettes, this is a powerful piece of autofiction about a writer diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. This is definitely the most intimate piece of writing Kinsella has released, and the tone is quite different than her other books. The humour is less outlandish and more of a dry wit. And yet it retains an inherent sense of optimism. The core of this book is about love, and the way the writer’s relationships with her husband and family have strengthened her.

I’ve been reading Kinsella’s books since junior high (and I’m 33 now!) and I’m pleased to report after reading this book that she comes off as even more likeable than her wonderful characters. I’m so touched that she allowed us readers this glimpse into her journey.

[Casey Reads &#x1f338; · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most beautiful short book I have read ever. When I first started reading this, I was like ehhh am I even going to like this? 3 chapters in & I knew this was going to be amazing.

I wish I could quote this whole book. There were so many wonderful quotes, but honestly you just need to read & experience it for yourself.

Trigger Warning: this is about cancer and it is RAW. It is beautiful and raw and so realistic. As someone who has tumors growing inside me right now, I found this so inspiring. I can’t say enough good things about this book.

I rarely read the author’s note in books, but for this one I had a feeling that I needed to read it. I just could tell by the writing that this author had a personal connection to this book & I am so glad I chose to read the author’s note too.

Beautiful work! I would give 6 stars if I could!

Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A friend of mine donated this book to my Little Free Library Shed. She told me that I may not want to read it because it was somewhat autobiographical in nature about the author’s own cancer journey. And, it might seem too personal for me. I said, maybe this might be the very reason I would like to read it. So, I did.

I remember years ago, I enjoyed reading this author’s ‘Shopaholic’ series, but soon grew tired of the stories, as they seemed too formulaic. But considering this novella and it’s subject, I was more than willing to venture into the story.

I am glad I did. Yes, cancer is a difficult subject to read. Feel. Or experience. But the author handled it with great warmth and sensitivity. And, even in fiction, it was believable and heart-felt. There were so many moments that I could relate to, especially when it came to the many scans the character Eve had to endure.

“The way to get through scanxiety: Is there a way? Please let me know what it is.”

I can so relate to what she wrote here! I can remember my last scan experience in December 2024. I thought I was fully prepared for it, but when the technician strapped me in, suddenly I felt anxious, as if I was going to have a panic attack and wanted to escape. Why was this happening to me now? I had over 7 scans this past year. I knew I needed to be still and stop my racing heart. I had to think fast about how I was going to get myself to a place of calm. So, I told myself to be-friend the scan machine. That it was going to give me the information that I needed to have. I said to myself, “you are my friend. You are giving me the information I need. I value you.” I also closed my eyes, and visualized my corgi dog, Oliver. I imagined him and us playing on the beach. And, as I did, I could feel my breathing start to feel normal. Even though I was strapped in, I continued to visualize Oliver with my Hand over my Heart ♥️ and I kept breathing. In and Out. And, I began to relax.

“Every scan is a plot twist.”

I knew that, too about the scans. Even as I dreaded them. I wanted to know what story it could tell me. What would this scan reveal? Would it tell me I was in remission? That the cancer was in-active and still benign? I knew intuitively I valued the information it would provide me.

This novella tells the story of Eve, a popular successful author, wife, and mother who suddenly is faced with a debilitating, terminal cancer. It is her story. The before. The during. And, her recovery. Of her family. Especially her relationship with her husband, Nick. And, the professionals who work alongside her. It is inspiring. It is a quick-read. It is nothing like any of her other books. And, that makes this book special.

Be sure and read her ‘Author’s Note.’

[JanB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eve, a successful novelist, wakes up in a hospital bed with no memory of how she got there. Her husband finally tells her the truth. She had surgery to remove a brain tumor, and the diagnosis is glioblastoma, an aggressive, malignant brain cancer.

The author received the same diagnosis and says this is her most autobiographical novel. At 144 pages, this is a novella, and easily read in one sitting.

Told as a series of vignettes as she navigates her new normal, this could be somber and depressing but in this author’s hands it’s filled with her trademark humor and optimism, even in the midst of struggles and heartbreak.

I have great admiration to those who can navigate difficulties with grace and courage. I wish all the best to the author, as well as her loving, supportive husband and children.

[Sharon Orlopp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to What Does It Feel Like? on audiobook and it is fabulously narrated by Sally Phillips.

This fictional novella is based on the author's life experience with a brain tumor. The fictional character, Eve, goes through many poignant, terrifying, and emotional experiences with brain tumor surgery, a cancer diagnosis, and chemo treatments. The author, Sophie Kinsella, and the fictional character, Eve, both have five children.

At the end of the book, Kinsella explains why she wrote a novel rather than a memoir and she provides insight into which aspects of the story are true and which ones are fictional.

Highly recommend!

[Meagan (Meagansbookclub) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow 😭😭😭

Novella but almost an autobiography of Sophie’s own cancer diagnosis and recovery. ❤️‍🩹

[Amina · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Does It Feel Like, was profoundly personal. A little over a year ago, we lost our brother-in-law to glioblastoma, the same brain cancer that affects the protagonist, Eve, and the author. This connection added an emotional weight that brought back all the feelings of grief but also opened my eyes to the inner thoughts of the patient.

A fictional story based on reality. Brave, motivating, beautiful, and heartbreaking. I applaud Kinsella's courage in sharing her story--and as she says in her authors' note,

I have always turned my own life into a narrative. It is my version of therapy, maybe. Writing is my happy place, and writing this book, although tough at times, was immensely satisfying and therapeutic for me

It's such a difficult story to write--especially telling a story knowing it's your reality. How do you do the impossible with grace and positivity? We all fear bringing our own mortality into the discussion, but those who do with grace and courage are true hero’s.

I've done a lot of exciting, bucket-listy stuff in my life. I've done glamorous travel and I've walked the red carpet and I've swum with dolphins. I don't need to do any more of that stuff. I just need to be around. Have fun with the children. Have fun with you. See friends. Small pleasures.

I know the cancer, I know the diagnosis, and I know the prognosis. It's all-around heartbreaking and gut-wrenching to watch. The endless hospital visits, the tears, the goodbyes, the acceptance that never comes...

I applaud Kinsella for adding humor and shining positivity in such a dark time. She is a hero, honest and open.

I have a confession--I haven't read any of Sophie Kinesella's books. Somehow, they weren't on my radar, but her bravery in this story has moved me deeply—I want to read her work

5/5 stars

[Rachel Hanes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eve was on top of the world, and couldn’t believe how lucky she was!! Eve had everything it seemed. Until she woke up one day in a hospital bed with no recollection of how she got there. Diagnosis: grade four glioblastoma.

Each chapter of this short book details Eve’s recovery, and the pieces of her memory she was able to slowly recover.

This book is both heartbreaking and beautiful. It’s a short book, and one that I didn’t ever want to end as I fell in love with “Eve” through these pages.

This is my first read by Sophie Kinsella, but it will not be my last as I want to race back and read through all her backlist. Please read the Author’s Note at the end of this story (and even the synopsis before you read it), and have a few tissues handy.

I definitely recommend this read.
And ladies- Buy the dress!! 👗

[Dee · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars, rounded down. I think I have read every single book that Sophie Kinsella has written, so, yeah, I am a fan. This very, very personal novella hits really hard, because it is so very much autobiographical, about a successful British mid-life writer & mum of 5 who gets a brain tumor & what she & her family must cope with. Overall, it's uplifting & an easy read, but also hard too, especially when you read her author's note about just how really personal it is 🥲🥲 That said, I also, like Eve, the MC, have found a dress I just had to have (though NOT a Jenny Packham) and had to buy it even though I had no place to wear it right away, LOL! If you buy it they will come along with tomorrow 👗😎☀️

[Jennifer ~ TarHeelReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, @randomhouse @thedialpress, for the gifted book. I also listened to the audio from my local library on @libby.app.

Sophie Kinsella’s books have played such a big role in my reading life. I can remember reading one of her books as a great distraction ahead of a major surgery, and another one read while on the balcony of a cruise ship sailing through the Mediterranean. I simply love her books, and when I saw she had a new one coming out, it was a given I would add it to my TBR. I had seen an interview somewhere that said she had a health condition. It was not until I listened to the book that I found out exactly what it was. Hearing it for the first time while listening to the audiobook; well, it took my breath.

Sophie Kinsella has described this as her most autobiographical book to date. Rather than penning a memoir, she chose this type of story, and it felt true to form. It’s a novella, quick to read and listen. The note from the author at the end, narrated by Sophie herself, is something that, if I’m lucky, will stay in the forefront of my mind forever and ever. A can’t miss for all fans of this most beloved author.

“Why did I write such a personal book? I have always processed my life through writing. Hiding behind my fictional characters, I have always turned my own life into a narrative. It is my version of therapy, maybe. Writing is my happy place, and writing this book, although tough going at times, was immensely satisfying and therapeutic for me.”—Sophie Kinsella

Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader

[Maren’s Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am sobbing as I write this review.

Sophie Kinsella is the reason I’m such an avid reader. With her Confessions of a Shopaholic series, she reinvigorated the reader in me. A romance that could make you laugh out load, featuring the most relatable character ever? I could not get enough!

Fast forward ten years, and like so many of us, I was heartbroken to hear of her brain cancer diagnosis; a type of brain cancer that my beloved aunt had as well. But reading this gorgeous novella, a mix of autobiography and fiction in epistolary form, I know one thing to be true. Sophie Kinsella can do anything she sets her mind to. And I believe in my heart, she will get her wish to “just keep going.”

Thank you Random House and Dial Press for the advanced copy.

[Norma ~ The Sisters · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sophie Kinsella has been a favourite of mine for years. I have read all of her books except one, and I knew What Does It Feel Like? would be something special. But I don’t think I was fully prepared for just how deeply it would settle into my heart.

This is a different kind of Kinsella novel, quieter and more reflective, yet filled with her signature warmth. Eve’s story is profoundly personal, shaped by Kinsella’s own experiences, and that intimacy shines through in every moment. The brief, almost vignette-like structure made it feel as though I was stepping into Eve’s memories, feeling the weight of each one. This story carries its share of sorrow, and I felt every bit of it, but in the author’s capable hands, it also shines with her trademark humour and optimism, even through life’s hardest moments.

The Author’s Notes at the end make it even more moving, adding another layer of heart to an already heartfelt book. I didn’t know about this until I read the book, and I want to send my best to the author, as well as to all her family. This story will stay with me, not in a heavy way, but as something warm and full of heart, a quiet reminder of love, resilience, and the moments that matter most.

[Brandice · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Does It Feel Like? is a moving novella by Sophie Kinsella, based on her own brain cancer diagnosis. This story is autobiographical fiction and although shorter in length and told in more of a vignette format than Kinsella’s typical novels, she delivers her standard humor, even with the serious topic.

It’s brave of Sophie to share such a personal story and I’m glad she did. What Does It Feel Like? is an emotional read that reminds us to live for the now and I wish Sophie all the best.

Thank you to The Dial Press and Netgalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Clare Pooley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge Sophie Kinsella fan. I love her wit, her lightness of touch, her humanity, and her ability to spin a great yarn. But I was Not Prepared For This. I listened to What Does It Feel Like on audio, and wept almost constantly, partly because I know that most of it is autobiographical. But, in true Sophie Kinsella form, just as it feels unbearable she makes you laugh like a drain. Sophie, you are amazing, and if anyone deserves a major plot twist and a happy ending it is you ❤️❤️❤️

[Ruben · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had my quarterly doctor's appointment at the Oncology hospital and while waiting I decided it was about time I read this book.

Although the circumstances have been quite different, I can somehow relate to how Eve Monroe (Sophie) has felt from the moment she was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma processing everything at her own pace and finally realizing she's still lucky to be given the chance to keep going and the strong will to live.

I underwent surgery back in 2014 for what was believed to be appendicitis, when I woke up, I was told it had been some difficult surgery as they'd had to remove a tumor (low grade malignant) on my small intestine (gastro instestinal stroma tumor or GIST). I have definitely been much more lucky than patients that have to receive chemo or radiotherapy. I've only been on taken medication which still seems to be working well for me in spite of the common side effects.

Many times we take everything for granted, like no such things could ever happen to us. This book reminded me of the different ways we can decide to live our lives and how instantly our lives can change. Life as an adult is already complex, living it miserably does not look like the best way to go.

This is my second book by Ms. Kinsella. I can only hope it won't be the last one and I wish for her to get better and keep on writing books.

This has been an enjoyable read on a very rainy day! :)

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can I give this less than five stars ? Sophie was so damn brave to write this. To deal with a devastating glioblastoma diagnosis as a beautifully, earth shatteringly happy wife, author, and mom of five (I can identify with all of these but one- I simply cannot imagine.

This novella is full of hope, joy, devastation, heartbreak, fear, and light. Kinsella bared her heart and soul, her big beautiful brain, and all of her deepest fears.

It’s a treasure and I keep thinking of how much her dear husband and five children will treasure this book forever.

And to Sophie : your words have brought me infinite joy for decades. From Becky Bloomwood to Effie and Sasha and every single fearless heroine in between- you’ve had me as your biggest fan. Thank you for changing my bookish life. 💜

Thank you to The Dial Press for a complimentary advance copy of this novel.

[Suz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautiful story, a novella, which is fictional account and very close to what the author has mirrored to her own life experience.

Having read of her tragic diagnosis of a brain tumour a few years back, I didn’t expect to read a beautifully written account of a funny, vivacious and talented writer whose luck literally had run out in such a warm and witty way. No depressive undertones given the brevity of the situation, it was a lovely read.

Reflecting upon not being able to know the ending was startling one for a healthy mother of five as she always had creative control, at the point in time when her latest book being adapted.

The author is a private person, but expresses herself most through writing, and that’s what’s she’s done here. A cathartic story, a beautiful and loving husband, and five gorgeous kids hoping the best for their mum. Highly recommended.

So nice to hear the author’s voice at the end, for the afterward ✨✨

I listened to this via the BorrowBox app and my public library.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short. And kinda sad. 😭 based on authors true life experience 👍

[Janssen]

A quick and heartbreaking read.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no words

Okay, after I gave it time to settle, I now have a few words. 🙃
Once upon a time many years ago I read Sophie Kinsella's Confessions of a Shopaholic (in my pre-Goodreads days) and I remember loving it. I'm pretty sure after I finished I vowed to continue with the series (as I often vow) and then for whatever reason I never ended up reading anymore Confessions of a Shopaholic books (as often happens 🤷🏻‍♀️). I have watched the movie several times. It's a pretty cute movie. Now after seeing What Does It Feel Like? on GR and remembering how much I adored this author in the past, I knew I needed to read this.

The title could not be more appropriate. Although, it is a work of fiction, it is based on Sophie's true experience with having brain cancer. The fictional character, Eve, in What Does It Feel Like? starts off living her life just like anyone else but as the symptoms begin to appear and the events are told from Eve's perspective, the reader gets a true sense of what it could possibly feel like. I know every person and every instance of cancer is different and unique to each individual, but after learning that Sophie based Eve on her own experience made this story so much more impactful. Highly recommend.

[Eva Gavilli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trama/Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Personaggi/Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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E' incredibile come la Kinsella sia riuscita a rendere “leggero”, in modo ironico e – a tratti – anche divertente un argomento drammatico come la sua stessa gravissima malattia...sul serio, ci sono pagine in cui si arriva a sorridere mentre lei ci racconta del modo in cui sta affrontando un glioblastoma. Tanto di cappello!
***
It's incredible how Kinsella managed to make "light" a dramatic topic like her own very serious illness , ironically and - at times - even funny... seriously, there are pages where you end up smiling while she tells us about the way she deals with a glioblastoma. Hats off!

[Nilguen · Rating 5 out of 5]

No spoiler!

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This is my first book of Sophie Kinsella and I had no idea what I was getting into with this book.

Eventually as I have just finished reading this fantastic book, I feel so honoured to meet Sophie Kinsella in her most autobiographical work to date.

I was so moved by Eve‘s (aka Sophie) story, how she kept going and I am in awe what a wonderful tribe Eve has created during her lifetime. Those five kids are so adorable, her husband is a gem! Obviously, her work has been awarded many times and I promise that I will devour each of Sophie Kinsella‘s books!

This novella is a must read from an author that is passionate about writing, about her family and her readers. I cried many tears, but I appreciate Kinsella‘s openness and vulnerability as she’ll help so many of her readers.

[Melany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yall... when I say I cried my eyes out...
I. Meant. That.

This is so raw, emotional, deep, heartbreaking and yet inspiring. Then reading the author's note. I cried even harder. Praying for Sophie and any others currently battling the atrocious disease. My sister was diagnosed recently with breast cancer so this truly hit me harder.

This just...geez. I can't make words,my tears are doing the talking. Go read this!!

I received this ARC from Random House Publishing to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.

[Irena BookDustMagic]

It is tradition for me and my friend Amanda to read Kinsella's newest release together.

This time I won't rate the book as it is based on true events of author's life in which she write about her battle with cancer.

[Kristy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A semi-autobiographical novella that’s both sad and hopeful.

I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.