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Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated
A lifetime ago, Ray “Spike” Thorns was a well-regarded caretaker on a boarding school’s grounds. These days, he lives the life of a recluse in a house rammed with hoarded junk, alone and disconnected from family or anyone he might have at one time considered a friend.
When his next-door neighbor drops dead on Spike’s doorstep, a case of mistaken identity according to the police, the hospital, the doctors—everyone—Spike is dead. Spike wants to correct the mistake, really he does, but when confronted with those who knew him best, he hesitates, forced to face whatever impression he’s left on the world. It’s a discovery that brings him up close to ghosts from his past, and to the only woman he ever loved.
Could it be that in coming face-to-face with his own demise, Spike is able to really live again? And will he be able to put things straight before the inevitable happens—his own funeral?
This is the best kind of feel-good it’s deeply affecting but full of clever mishaps and enough laughs along the way. It takes the message from Dead Poets Society and mixes it with the tragedy of It’s a Wonderful Life and tops it off with an ultimately lovable guy like in A Man Called Ove. The result is a heartbreakingly beautiful look at life and what we would all do if given a second chance.
When his next-door neighbor drops dead on Spike’s doorstep, a case of mistaken identity according to the police, the hospital, the doctors—everyone—Spike is dead. Spike wants to correct the mistake, really he does, but when confronted with those who knew him best, he hesitates, forced to face whatever impression he’s left on the world. It’s a discovery that brings him up close to ghosts from his past, and to the only woman he ever loved.
Could it be that in coming face-to-face with his own demise, Spike is able to really live again? And will he be able to put things straight before the inevitable happens—his own funeral?
This is the best kind of feel-good it’s deeply affecting but full of clever mishaps and enough laughs along the way. It takes the message from Dead Poets Society and mixes it with the tragedy of It’s a Wonderful Life and tops it off with an ultimately lovable guy like in A Man Called Ove. The result is a heartbreakingly beautiful look at life and what we would all do if given a second chance.
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2025
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967 people want to read
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June 24, 2025
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Recluse Ray, also known as Spike, lives in his hoarder home and no longer communicates with any of his family or friends. One day, his neighbour comes calling and dies at Spike's front door. The police, paramedics, and even the doctors at the hospital mistake him for Spike. When Spike tries to fix this mistake, he has to relive his past and come to grips with how and why he became who he is now and how he lives.
This was such a moving story about a mix-up that ends up being funny and heartwarming in equal measure. There is a lot of reflecting on Spike's part, but he also gets himself into some hilarious situations trying to right the mistake. Through the unexpected encounters he has with people along the way, Spike starts to understand how the smallest of kindnesses can mean a lot. Spike carries a lot of weight on his shoulders, most of it remorse, but he slowly starts to come into his own and sees himself for what he is. This was written in such a tender and realistic way.
I love how the book shows that second chances can happen. Spike is on a journey, but it isn't this big to-do; it's the simple pleasures and gestures that can change us. Don't get me wrong, while very heartwarming, this book is not saccharine in its sentimentality, and I liked that. I loved reading about Spike and his regrets; it is real and raw, and honest. What I took away from the book is the fact that Spike had to "die" to be able to come alive again. Overall, this book is beautifully written, funny, honest and a reminder that we should make the best of life before it's too late. All. The. Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
The Book Review Crew Blog
Recluse Ray, also known as Spike, lives in his hoarder home and no longer communicates with any of his family or friends. One day, his neighbour comes calling and dies at Spike's front door. The police, paramedics, and even the doctors at the hospital mistake him for Spike. When Spike tries to fix this mistake, he has to relive his past and come to grips with how and why he became who he is now and how he lives.
This was such a moving story about a mix-up that ends up being funny and heartwarming in equal measure. There is a lot of reflecting on Spike's part, but he also gets himself into some hilarious situations trying to right the mistake. Through the unexpected encounters he has with people along the way, Spike starts to understand how the smallest of kindnesses can mean a lot. Spike carries a lot of weight on his shoulders, most of it remorse, but he slowly starts to come into his own and sees himself for what he is. This was written in such a tender and realistic way.
I love how the book shows that second chances can happen. Spike is on a journey, but it isn't this big to-do; it's the simple pleasures and gestures that can change us. Don't get me wrong, while very heartwarming, this book is not saccharine in its sentimentality, and I liked that. I loved reading about Spike and his regrets; it is real and raw, and honest. What I took away from the book is the fact that Spike had to "die" to be able to come alive again. Overall, this book is beautifully written, funny, honest and a reminder that we should make the best of life before it's too late. All. The. Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
July 1, 2025
Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated is a quirky, poignant, and heartfelt character-driven story set in England.
Ray “Spike” Thorns is a retired groundskeeper and lives like a recluse with a hoarding problem. When his neighbor dies on his doorstep, a case of mistaken identity ensues, and everyone assumes Ray has died. As his family plans his funeral and the condolences roll in, he is forced to face his own death and decides to put some things right before his funeral. During this process, we learn more about Ray’s background, career, and reputation.
The more that is revealed about Ray, the more we love and admire him! He’s one of the good guys! We discover that he lived a quiet yet meaningful life, and he touched others with his thoughtfulness, generosity, kindness, benevolence, generous spirit, and encouragement. He’s a difference maker in his unique way.
Reminiscent of The Borrowed Life of Fredrick Fife, mistaken identity is always an entertaining and engaging trope. Now that the news of his demise has spread, an obituary written, a funeral planned, his possessions sorted, and condolences received, how will he rewind all this? How can he explain himself? How does he prove he’s not dead? What about the other family?
Maybe it would benefit all of us to read our own obituary and contemplate our own funeral while we are living. Ray discovers that people regard him highly and that he has been a positive influence on many lives. He gains a new and improved sense of self and purpose for his remaining days. Our first impression of him changes as we realize he’s not a hoarder but a giver. Acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on people with whom you interact. I admire the way the author reveals Ray’s character, and by the lovely and satisfying conclusion, you can tell that the author loves him.
Content Consideration: a sprinkling of profanity
Fans of quirky, humorous, and unique stories will enjoy adding Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated to their TBRs. Perfect light and thoughtful weekend reading.
Thanks #NetGalley @HTP_Books / MIRA for a complimentary eARC of #ReportsOfHisDeathHaveBeenGreatlyExaggerated upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
Ray “Spike” Thorns is a retired groundskeeper and lives like a recluse with a hoarding problem. When his neighbor dies on his doorstep, a case of mistaken identity ensues, and everyone assumes Ray has died. As his family plans his funeral and the condolences roll in, he is forced to face his own death and decides to put some things right before his funeral. During this process, we learn more about Ray’s background, career, and reputation.
The more that is revealed about Ray, the more we love and admire him! He’s one of the good guys! We discover that he lived a quiet yet meaningful life, and he touched others with his thoughtfulness, generosity, kindness, benevolence, generous spirit, and encouragement. He’s a difference maker in his unique way.
Reminiscent of The Borrowed Life of Fredrick Fife, mistaken identity is always an entertaining and engaging trope. Now that the news of his demise has spread, an obituary written, a funeral planned, his possessions sorted, and condolences received, how will he rewind all this? How can he explain himself? How does he prove he’s not dead? What about the other family?
Maybe it would benefit all of us to read our own obituary and contemplate our own funeral while we are living. Ray discovers that people regard him highly and that he has been a positive influence on many lives. He gains a new and improved sense of self and purpose for his remaining days. Our first impression of him changes as we realize he’s not a hoarder but a giver. Acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on people with whom you interact. I admire the way the author reveals Ray’s character, and by the lovely and satisfying conclusion, you can tell that the author loves him.
Content Consideration: a sprinkling of profanity
Fans of quirky, humorous, and unique stories will enjoy adding Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated to their TBRs. Perfect light and thoughtful weekend reading.
Thanks #NetGalley @HTP_Books / MIRA for a complimentary eARC of #ReportsOfHisDeathHaveBeenGreatlyExaggerated upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
April 12, 2025
This book grabbed my attention solely based on the title. I am glad that it did. James Goodhand beautifully explores the complexity of life. Love lost, time lost, friendship, heartache as well as the impacts and aftermath of codependency within a mother and son relationship.
This beautiful story is a reminder not only to live life fully and in the present but also to love those in our lives and be present, while we have the opportunity to do so.
Publication July 1st, 2025
I had this opportunity to read an ARC copy of this book. Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley.
This beautiful story is a reminder not only to live life fully and in the present but also to love those in our lives and be present, while we have the opportunity to do so.
Publication July 1st, 2025
I had this opportunity to read an ARC copy of this book. Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley.
December 30, 2025
Ray “Spike” Thorns was a beloved and respected caretaker for decades at an all-boys boarding school. But ever since his retirement, he’s been neglecting his life, his home, and himself. He hardly sees anyone, has lost touch with his family, and lives in a house chock-full of hoarded junk.
His life gets flipped, turned upside down when his neighbor — someone he only vaguely knows — comes over to warm up after his own house loses heat. In a round of unfortunate timing and circumstance, while Ray is out getting takeout for the two of them, the neighbor dies. When the paramedics arrive, they assume the dead man is actually the resident — Ray.
As Ray works to correct the mistake, he struggles with the inevitable influx of family he hasn’t seen in over ten years — all of whom have been contacted about his supposed death. With ghosts from his past rushing in, Ray is forced to confront his long-held belief that the impact he’s made on the world, and on those he’s known, was negligible at best — that he’s lived a life of near inconsequence.
I went into this with a touch of trepidation. I was excited to see a new James Goodhand novel after really enjoying The Day Tripper, but curmudgeon novels rarely, if ever, work for me — at least not when they’re typical. While the publisher’s comparisons to Dead Poets Society and It’s a Wonderful Life definitely drew my interest, the final comparison — A Man Called Ove — made me hesitant. Not to mention, the author who blurbed this one wrote a book that... didn’t quite work for me, let’s say.
I was, however, quite delighted with this novel. Goodhand delivers a thoughtful portrait of a well-rounded, fully sketched, and deeply endearing character. Ray is a man who has lived his life hiding, assuming he was but a shadow. As his backstory unfolds, we see the life he lived, the events that shaped him, and the people he touched. Through the extraordinary circumstances surrounding a death he hasn’t yet experienced, Ray’s unwavering kindness and quiet warmth prove to be the light others have long needed. He’s a man of dogged goodness — often to his own detriment — but the growth he finally sees late in life gives him the second chance we’ve been rooting for.
And Ray is no curmudgeon. He’s a fully formed person who graces the page with tenderness and generosity. He doesn’t need a young person to guide him back toward life — he only needs to be handed the reins and shown that he, too, deserves the life he wants.
His life gets flipped, turned upside down when his neighbor — someone he only vaguely knows — comes over to warm up after his own house loses heat. In a round of unfortunate timing and circumstance, while Ray is out getting takeout for the two of them, the neighbor dies. When the paramedics arrive, they assume the dead man is actually the resident — Ray.
As Ray works to correct the mistake, he struggles with the inevitable influx of family he hasn’t seen in over ten years — all of whom have been contacted about his supposed death. With ghosts from his past rushing in, Ray is forced to confront his long-held belief that the impact he’s made on the world, and on those he’s known, was negligible at best — that he’s lived a life of near inconsequence.
I went into this with a touch of trepidation. I was excited to see a new James Goodhand novel after really enjoying The Day Tripper, but curmudgeon novels rarely, if ever, work for me — at least not when they’re typical. While the publisher’s comparisons to Dead Poets Society and It’s a Wonderful Life definitely drew my interest, the final comparison — A Man Called Ove — made me hesitant. Not to mention, the author who blurbed this one wrote a book that... didn’t quite work for me, let’s say.
I was, however, quite delighted with this novel. Goodhand delivers a thoughtful portrait of a well-rounded, fully sketched, and deeply endearing character. Ray is a man who has lived his life hiding, assuming he was but a shadow. As his backstory unfolds, we see the life he lived, the events that shaped him, and the people he touched. Through the extraordinary circumstances surrounding a death he hasn’t yet experienced, Ray’s unwavering kindness and quiet warmth prove to be the light others have long needed. He’s a man of dogged goodness — often to his own detriment — but the growth he finally sees late in life gives him the second chance we’ve been rooting for.
And Ray is no curmudgeon. He’s a fully formed person who graces the page with tenderness and generosity. He doesn’t need a young person to guide him back toward life — he only needs to be handed the reins and shown that he, too, deserves the life he wants.
June 30, 2025
I picked up Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated by James Goodhand when I was in the mood for something grounded and easy to listen to, what I call a “human story.” No sci-fi or fantasy elements, just the down-to-earth unravelling of one man's life.
The audiobook is outstanding. The narrator brings just the right tone and inflexion to the text, making it feel like he’s telling his own story rather than reading a script. I listened to the first 70% in one sitting and finished the rest the same day. I just had to know how it ended. I was utterly hooked, needing to fill in the blanks between past and present and understand the lead character’s present-day predicament.
The book's structure allows the story to unfold effortlessly, striking a balance between reflection and emotional depth while maintaining a genuine sense of momentum. It reminded me in many ways of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman, maybe not as overtly humorous, but just as full of heart.
I especially loved that this was told from the perspective of an older protagonist. We don’t often get stories where older characters are given the spotlight with the depth and nuance they deserve. Too frequently, they’re side characters or stereotypes, but here we’re given a window into a lifetime of wisdom, regret, and resilience. It was refreshing and moving.
Highly recommend if you're looking for a story that feels deeply personal, reflective, and quietly powerful.
The audiobook is outstanding. The narrator brings just the right tone and inflexion to the text, making it feel like he’s telling his own story rather than reading a script. I listened to the first 70% in one sitting and finished the rest the same day. I just had to know how it ended. I was utterly hooked, needing to fill in the blanks between past and present and understand the lead character’s present-day predicament.
The book's structure allows the story to unfold effortlessly, striking a balance between reflection and emotional depth while maintaining a genuine sense of momentum. It reminded me in many ways of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman, maybe not as overtly humorous, but just as full of heart.
I especially loved that this was told from the perspective of an older protagonist. We don’t often get stories where older characters are given the spotlight with the depth and nuance they deserve. Too frequently, they’re side characters or stereotypes, but here we’re given a window into a lifetime of wisdom, regret, and resilience. It was refreshing and moving.
Highly recommend if you're looking for a story that feels deeply personal, reflective, and quietly powerful.
December 17, 2025
Heartwarming, with characters that are easy to like (apart for the ones you're supposed to hate). I felt like it maybe didn't stick the landing in the end, but it was still a solid, enjoyable read, perfect for putting a sweet taste in your mouth in between heavier books.
July 25, 2025
James Goodhand can make even the worst characters likable. This one is definitely my favorite "feel-good happy/sad" book of the year.
July 15, 2025
“How much life do we lose, withholding the best of everything for some notional special occasion?”
Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated is a hopeful, quirky, and funny tale of lost connections and second chances. This book was a wonderful reminder to enjoy the little pleasures life has to offer, and to make the most of the time you have.
Fans of The Second Life of Mirielle West and The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle will surely love this book!
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated is a hopeful, quirky, and funny tale of lost connections and second chances. This book was a wonderful reminder to enjoy the little pleasures life has to offer, and to make the most of the time you have.
Fans of The Second Life of Mirielle West and The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle will surely love this book!
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
November 4, 2025
A feel-good novel about a man who discovers, when he’s mistakenly thought to be dead, that he wants to live, really live, not just exist as he has been since his forced retirement from a job held for many years and that he loved, at a private school.
Ray "Spike" Thorns lives a life cut off from his family and former acquaintances, but he has his daily routines, and keeps adding to the already big hoard of newspapers and other things in his home. One day a neighbour asks for help, but collapses. The paramedics and hospital mistake the neighbour for Ray, and suddenly he finds that no one will believe that Ray Thorns is actually alive.
His estranged brother Denny and wife (Ray's former first and only girlfriend and love of his life) Junie arrive at Ray's house, sending Ray to hide in a closet, despite wanting to correct everyone's assumption about his death.
As he hides, and listens to Junie, and eventually his nephew Stephen talk about him and start cleaning up his things, he begins thinking back over his life and we see that even though he felt he had let people down and did not matter over his life, we can see that that's not actually true.
As the longtime caretaker of a private school, he touched many boys' lives through his conversations with them, and organizing activities for them. He had the respect of the school's principal. Before this, he and Junie had had a deep love for one another, and though their parting left him confused and bereft, he still deeply loves her, and it's clear she still cares about him when they reunite in the present. His nephew found Ray's quiet respect for him and love transformative.
This quiet book shows that it is possible to find renewed hope and direction in life, no matter how old one is. It's heartwarming, but not treacly in its execution. Ray is a decent person, who truly believes that kindness and respect are due to others. That he's later shown how much this simple attitude of his has profoundly affected others left me in tears. But I was also smiling by the time I finished this story, which is a wake up call that we should appreciate the people in our lives, and do our best to live, not gripe and not just exist.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Ray "Spike" Thorns lives a life cut off from his family and former acquaintances, but he has his daily routines, and keeps adding to the already big hoard of newspapers and other things in his home. One day a neighbour asks for help, but collapses. The paramedics and hospital mistake the neighbour for Ray, and suddenly he finds that no one will believe that Ray Thorns is actually alive.
His estranged brother Denny and wife (Ray's former first and only girlfriend and love of his life) Junie arrive at Ray's house, sending Ray to hide in a closet, despite wanting to correct everyone's assumption about his death.
As he hides, and listens to Junie, and eventually his nephew Stephen talk about him and start cleaning up his things, he begins thinking back over his life and we see that even though he felt he had let people down and did not matter over his life, we can see that that's not actually true.
As the longtime caretaker of a private school, he touched many boys' lives through his conversations with them, and organizing activities for them. He had the respect of the school's principal. Before this, he and Junie had had a deep love for one another, and though their parting left him confused and bereft, he still deeply loves her, and it's clear she still cares about him when they reunite in the present. His nephew found Ray's quiet respect for him and love transformative.
This quiet book shows that it is possible to find renewed hope and direction in life, no matter how old one is. It's heartwarming, but not treacly in its execution. Ray is a decent person, who truly believes that kindness and respect are due to others. That he's later shown how much this simple attitude of his has profoundly affected others left me in tears. But I was also smiling by the time I finished this story, which is a wake up call that we should appreciate the people in our lives, and do our best to live, not gripe and not just exist.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
July 14, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the Arc!
What a beautiful and heartwarming story. Its filled with the what if’s , reflection and love. The main character is a relatable person. By mistake people think he has died and because of this he starts reflecting on the life he has and his relationship with his long lost love, his brother, nephew and mother.
Completely recommended
What a beautiful and heartwarming story. Its filled with the what if’s , reflection and love. The main character is a relatable person. By mistake people think he has died and because of this he starts reflecting on the life he has and his relationship with his long lost love, his brother, nephew and mother.
Completely recommended
July 28, 2025
This book was an absolute delight. It had so many of my favorite things—from elderly protagonists to second chances to a quiet life whose gentle ripples have had an unexpectedly large impact.
Ray is so easy to love. (His, mother on the other hand, is a piece of work, and his unfailing devotion to her at extreme cost will break your heart.) He has been hurt so deeply, but has never hurt others in turn. However, he has missed out on so many years of living.
Ironically, the thing that just may change that is a case of mixed-up identity, leaving everyone thinking Roy is now dead.
This book is full of humor and heartbreak, so get ready to both laugh and cry. I loved it, and it will have a special place on my “beloved books with seasoned protagonists” list.
4.5 ⭐️
Ray is so easy to love. (His, mother on the other hand, is a piece of work, and his unfailing devotion to her at extreme cost will break your heart.) He has been hurt so deeply, but has never hurt others in turn. However, he has missed out on so many years of living.
Ironically, the thing that just may change that is a case of mixed-up identity, leaving everyone thinking Roy is now dead.
This book is full of humor and heartbreak, so get ready to both laugh and cry. I loved it, and it will have a special place on my “beloved books with seasoned protagonists” list.
4.5 ⭐️
January 15, 2026
𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗶𝘀 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗘𝘅𝗮𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 is as quirky as its title suggests; it's also a heartfelt character-driven story that feels deeply human in its exploration of life.
Ray is a wonderful character who will tug on your heartstrings the more you get to know him. As the story unfolds from past to present, you glean a better understanding of Ray and discover what a quiet but meaningful life he has lived. Ray's recollections of his caretaker years at the school and the gentle way he helped so many kids highlights his generosity and benevolent spirit. It rapidly becomes clear that he doesn't even realize the lasting impact his acts of kindness have had on so many others over the years.
Stephen is a shining side character, making my heart burst with his exuberance and encouragement to not only his mother but also Ray. While I mostly enjoyed the love story of Ray and Junie, I wish it hadn't been through the keeping-it-in-the-family trope (is there a specific name for this?) where a character winds up dating/ marrying a sibling of their ex while clearly still harboring feelings for each other. Denny isn't exactly a character I care much about either way, but his incorporation unnecessarily detracted from their love story and ultimately kept this from being a five star read for me.
I adore my elderly characters so it's no surprise I was endeared to Ray and his story. The mishaps, misunderstandings, and heart found within these pages are reminiscent of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife and a touch a A Man Called Ove. It's a heartwarming, beautiful ode to life and what we would do if given a second chance at living it (with perhaps a fresh perspective). "Steady on," Ray; I'll be tucking you away in my heart with the others.
🎙 Peter Noble is absolutely brilliant as the narrator. His voice and demeanor is sheer perfection for Ray.
Ray is a wonderful character who will tug on your heartstrings the more you get to know him. As the story unfolds from past to present, you glean a better understanding of Ray and discover what a quiet but meaningful life he has lived. Ray's recollections of his caretaker years at the school and the gentle way he helped so many kids highlights his generosity and benevolent spirit. It rapidly becomes clear that he doesn't even realize the lasting impact his acts of kindness have had on so many others over the years.
Stephen is a shining side character, making my heart burst with his exuberance and encouragement to not only his mother but also Ray. While I mostly enjoyed the love story of Ray and Junie, I wish it hadn't been through the keeping-it-in-the-family trope (is there a specific name for this?) where a character winds up dating/ marrying a sibling of their ex while clearly still harboring feelings for each other. Denny isn't exactly a character I care much about either way, but his incorporation unnecessarily detracted from their love story and ultimately kept this from being a five star read for me.
I adore my elderly characters so it's no surprise I was endeared to Ray and his story. The mishaps, misunderstandings, and heart found within these pages are reminiscent of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife and a touch a A Man Called Ove. It's a heartwarming, beautiful ode to life and what we would do if given a second chance at living it (with perhaps a fresh perspective). "Steady on," Ray; I'll be tucking you away in my heart with the others.
🎙 Peter Noble is absolutely brilliant as the narrator. His voice and demeanor is sheer perfection for Ray.
December 25, 2025
4.25stars
July 15, 2025
So, this book was pretty much perfect. That's it, end of review.
No? Not good enough? Fine. First, just get yourself ready to be sucked in by the premise: older gentleman tries to help a neighbor, neighbor collapses in his apartment and dies at the hospital. The medical team thinks he is the one who's dead, and no one seems bothered to correct them. Next of kin is notified, and Ray gets an up-close look on how people react to his demise that is offered to nearly none of us.
We are treated to glimpses of Ray's past, as well as his life in the present. His high points, his regrets, his hardest moments are all there for both Ray and the reader to unpack and examine. This is certainly a quieter, more introspective story, but it is so charming and heartfelt that if you're anything like me, you'll be hard pressed to put it down. It was chock full of emotions, and characters and their relationships that I truly cared about. I finished this book with my heart bursting, and I felt immensely grateful for having read it.
Bottom Line: I was blown away with this book, and cannot think of a single thing I didn't adore.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
No? Not good enough? Fine. First, just get yourself ready to be sucked in by the premise: older gentleman tries to help a neighbor, neighbor collapses in his apartment and dies at the hospital. The medical team thinks he is the one who's dead, and no one seems bothered to correct them. Next of kin is notified, and Ray gets an up-close look on how people react to his demise that is offered to nearly none of us.
We are treated to glimpses of Ray's past, as well as his life in the present. His high points, his regrets, his hardest moments are all there for both Ray and the reader to unpack and examine. This is certainly a quieter, more introspective story, but it is so charming and heartfelt that if you're anything like me, you'll be hard pressed to put it down. It was chock full of emotions, and characters and their relationships that I truly cared about. I finished this book with my heart bursting, and I felt immensely grateful for having read it.
Bottom Line: I was blown away with this book, and cannot think of a single thing I didn't adore.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
January 13, 2026
Enjoyed this
October 25, 2025
I just mainlined this book like others do drugs, exactly like I couldn't resist doing with The Day Tripper! Every moment I've spent not reading today, I have been anxious and twitchy from being away from my fix. The feeling of reading something new and brilliant for the first time is its own sort of magic, and Goodhand did not disappoint. This book just has so much HEART, it's at times faintly ridiculous but so very entertaining and twisty and genuinely endearing throughout. I loved it from start to finish. I can't wait to experience his next book for the first time.
October 11, 2025
"I've not dared to look ahead; not dared to march into that ever advancing front into the future. I've lived gazing only backward, holding on tight to the fragments of things mostly lost to the notion that all that is good has already happened, strapped down by nostalgia, that rotten disease that robs one of half their eyesight, able to see all that's gotten worse, but blind to all that has improved. No more, that's what I say. Y0u wonderous people have shown me there is so much good still to know."
One can probably tell the basic plot of this book by the title. When Ray Thorns' neighbor dies suddenly at Ray's house, there is a case of mistaken identity, and Ray is thought to be the one who has died. Panicked as he tries and fails to right the situation initially, Ray witnesses his estranged family members take stock of his life based on what he has left behind in his home. But as he remembers the past, we see who Ray was in younger years, and the path that led him to his current life. It seems like so little to Ray, but was it?
I enjoyed this book the entire time I was reading it, but it was a little slow, and not an uncommon story. However, by the 2/3 mark, it was actually bringing me real joy, and the last 15% hit me straight in the heart. Typically, books that are trying to make me emotional are abject failures for me, but somehow, Goodhand keeps this from ever becoming corny or emotionally manipulative. It's a wonderful reminder that an ordinary life can be extraordinary, and that there is untold joy and beauty in every day if we only create the discipline to look for it. It's also never too late, and you really aren't ever too old to start fresh. This is an underrated gem of a book, and perfect for when you may need a lift, or a reminder of all the good in the world that is not only happening every day, but that you are very likely a part of.
One can probably tell the basic plot of this book by the title. When Ray Thorns' neighbor dies suddenly at Ray's house, there is a case of mistaken identity, and Ray is thought to be the one who has died. Panicked as he tries and fails to right the situation initially, Ray witnesses his estranged family members take stock of his life based on what he has left behind in his home. But as he remembers the past, we see who Ray was in younger years, and the path that led him to his current life. It seems like so little to Ray, but was it?
I enjoyed this book the entire time I was reading it, but it was a little slow, and not an uncommon story. However, by the 2/3 mark, it was actually bringing me real joy, and the last 15% hit me straight in the heart. Typically, books that are trying to make me emotional are abject failures for me, but somehow, Goodhand keeps this from ever becoming corny or emotionally manipulative. It's a wonderful reminder that an ordinary life can be extraordinary, and that there is untold joy and beauty in every day if we only create the discipline to look for it. It's also never too late, and you really aren't ever too old to start fresh. This is an underrated gem of a book, and perfect for when you may need a lift, or a reminder of all the good in the world that is not only happening every day, but that you are very likely a part of.
May 25, 2025
This story follows Raymond Thorns, who is stuck in a rut of routine until his neighbor dies of a heart attack in his home, throwing his life into chaos, and reminding him
what it means to actually live.
Raymond as a character was lovely to follow. He’s a protagonist with a genuinely good heart and a catchphrase that is calm and collected (“steady on”). His nephew, Stephen, was also a standout for me. There are characters with a lot of heart, navigating a story about remembering to live in the present.
I did think some of the relationships were a little convoluted, including the many ties Raymond has to Junie, and Raymond’s difficulty grasping the manipulative nature of his codependent relationship with his mother. The plot took some directions that I was not expecting and the build up to his forced retirement was a letdown in the reveal, but overall, the book had a lot of spirit.
what it means to actually live.
Raymond as a character was lovely to follow. He’s a protagonist with a genuinely good heart and a catchphrase that is calm and collected (“steady on”). His nephew, Stephen, was also a standout for me. There are characters with a lot of heart, navigating a story about remembering to live in the present.
I did think some of the relationships were a little convoluted, including the many ties Raymond has to Junie, and Raymond’s difficulty grasping the manipulative nature of his codependent relationship with his mother. The plot took some directions that I was not expecting and the build up to his forced retirement was a letdown in the reveal, but overall, the book had a lot of spirit.
August 13, 2025
I almost stopped reading "Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated" because it just seemed so sad that this man had seemingly wasted 60 years of his life. Then, the magic happened. I was in tears by the book's end, but they were mostly happy tears.
Ray Thorns has lived a solitary and pathetic life since he left his job as a caretaker at a posh boarding school. When a neighbor dies on Ray's doorstep, confusion leads to everyone believing it is Ray who has died.
And then his life truly begins . . . again.
Ray Thorns has lived a solitary and pathetic life since he left his job as a caretaker at a posh boarding school. When a neighbor dies on Ray's doorstep, confusion leads to everyone believing it is Ray who has died.
And then his life truly begins . . . again.
November 21, 2025
Just one word. MARVELOUS!!!!!!!
September 29, 2025
This is a gentle, wholesome story for anyone who loves a heartwarming tearjerker. Brilliantly written, but beware of the occasional f-bomb if that’s not your cup of tea.
Full review on my blog: https://worldliteratour.com/06-09-25-...
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration.
Full review on my blog: https://worldliteratour.com/06-09-25-...
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration.
November 19, 2025
Delightful, full of humour!
August 22, 2025
3.75 🌟 rounded up
Usually, I am not drawn to feel-good stories, but they serve as nice palate cleansers here and there. This book certainly does that job. It's heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. I found Spike endearing, but honestly, his story ends up being quite depressing. Even though the ending is sweet, I still felt bad for him for wasting so much time in his life. It truly makes you reflect on what's important in life.
Peter Noble did the narration for the audiobook. He's a very experienced audiobook narrator and was perfect for this role.
Recommended for regular readers of feel-good fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC.
Usually, I am not drawn to feel-good stories, but they serve as nice palate cleansers here and there. This book certainly does that job. It's heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. I found Spike endearing, but honestly, his story ends up being quite depressing. Even though the ending is sweet, I still felt bad for him for wasting so much time in his life. It truly makes you reflect on what's important in life.
Peter Noble did the narration for the audiobook. He's a very experienced audiobook narrator and was perfect for this role.
Recommended for regular readers of feel-good fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC.
January 7, 2026
That was a lovely read. Did feel such sadness for Ray/Spike living his life in isolation and losing the love of his life but the ending was so glorious it nearly (though not quite) made up for all the despair.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2026
I started to listen to this book once before and only made it to chapter 4. I gave up. When I picked it up again I started at chapter 5 and found it hilarious! This book had all the emotions. I haven’t teared up because of a book in a long time. Definitely worth a listen!
January 17, 2026
I liked this book more than I thought I was going to in the beginning. The way Ray's past slowly unfolds interspersed with the chapters of is current life is really well done. I love that he doesn't actually assume the identity of his neighbor, he just fails to correct the authorities' assumption. The ending of course makes you cry but in the best way.
August 25, 2025
4.5 stars. Very enjoyable read.
January 10, 2026
Light and charming.
January 19, 2026
Sweet but not saccharine, a feel good book in the same vein as Ove but without the darkness.
July 9, 2025
Now this book is a proper balance of humorous, sweet, wistful, and nostalgia. Ray finds himself, through no fault of his own, declared dead when his neighbor dies in his house and is mistakenly identified as Ray. Ray, being a very sweet and not wanting to be any trouble (which is sweet but also a bit annoying especially as people brush him off when he tries to figure out how to make them believe he is alive). There are glimpses of his history during this time of contemplation, both good memories and bittersweet ones of lost loves and what could have beens which make this a delightful journey (with a bit of hatred for his mum) as you get to see what a difference he has made to so many people, working behind the scenes both at the school and then with his nephew and others. This story left me with a nice, warm feeling and how important it is to let people know they are loved and wanted and not forgotten. And that it is never too late for second chances, even if forty years go by!
I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook! The narrator, Peter Noble, did a wonderful job in bringing Ray to life (because he is definitely not dead, despite what the newspaper announcement says!) and letting all of us readers find out what a great man Ray is.
I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook! The narrator, Peter Noble, did a wonderful job in bringing Ray to life (because he is definitely not dead, despite what the newspaper announcement says!) and letting all of us readers find out what a great man Ray is.
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