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The Happiness Project
Prepare to be captivated by one of the most poignant and heart-warming books you will read this year, perfect for readers who loved One Day in December.
Alison’s perfect world has fallen apart. Her beloved larger than life mother-in-law, Maggie, has just passed away. Every afternoon they’d talk and laugh over a pot of tea - and Maggie was secretly the glue that held Alison’s family together. Now she’s trying to figure out a future without her...
With a little help from her two best friends, Alison resolves to try and find her happy place and be more Maggie. Vowing to step outside of their comfort zones and make the most of every day, the three women each have their own challenges to overcome in the year ahead - a baby on the way, a romance to save, and a much-needed confidence boost.
But as Alison finds herself drinking more wine than she ever has in her life and signing up for an extreme sports charity event, she starts to wonder if this is really the change she needed in her life? Or will she re-discover her happiness closer to home?
Growing up in Birmingham, Pippa James was never without at least one book on the go and therefore lived several different lives concurrently. As an adult, she would like to spend much of her time the same way, but she now lives a chaotic life in a small Derbyshire town with her husband and two children. Her writing is frequently interrupted by parenting duties and her day job as a teacher and the only way she can find a quiet space to think, is by taking her laptop to the pub, which she does at every opportunity.
Alison’s perfect world has fallen apart. Her beloved larger than life mother-in-law, Maggie, has just passed away. Every afternoon they’d talk and laugh over a pot of tea - and Maggie was secretly the glue that held Alison’s family together. Now she’s trying to figure out a future without her...
With a little help from her two best friends, Alison resolves to try and find her happy place and be more Maggie. Vowing to step outside of their comfort zones and make the most of every day, the three women each have their own challenges to overcome in the year ahead - a baby on the way, a romance to save, and a much-needed confidence boost.
But as Alison finds herself drinking more wine than she ever has in her life and signing up for an extreme sports charity event, she starts to wonder if this is really the change she needed in her life? Or will she re-discover her happiness closer to home?
Growing up in Birmingham, Pippa James was never without at least one book on the go and therefore lived several different lives concurrently. As an adult, she would like to spend much of her time the same way, but she now lives a chaotic life in a small Derbyshire town with her husband and two children. Her writing is frequently interrupted by parenting duties and her day job as a teacher and the only way she can find a quiet space to think, is by taking her laptop to the pub, which she does at every opportunity.
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About the author
Pippa James
8 books12 followersGrowing up in Birmingham, Pippa James was never without at least one book on the go and therefore lived several different lives concurrently. As an adult, she would like to spend much of her time the same way, but she now lives a chaotic life in a small Derbyshire town with her husband and two children. Her writing is frequently interrupted by parenting duties and her day job as a teacher and the only way she can find a quiet space to think, is by taking her laptop to the pub to drink tea and write, which she does at every opportunity.
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April 15, 2019
A lovely continuation of the story of 'I will survive' which can also be read as a standalone. We meet Allison, Kate and Frankie again as they make their New Year Resolutions in order to improve their lives and push themselves out of their comfort zone. Allison would like to focus on making healthier meals for her family and getting more fit. Frankie needs to find and keep a good job to prove to her mother that she can function as a responsible adult. Kate would like to enjoy her third pregnancy and be more relaxed.
It is easy to relate to the subject of friends and trying to change your life (although 90% of us do give up in the first month), but the thing that makes this novel stand out is Pippa James’ writing style. Witty, realistic, entertaining, with a great pace and seamless transitions between different points of view.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
It is easy to relate to the subject of friends and trying to change your life (although 90% of us do give up in the first month), but the thing that makes this novel stand out is Pippa James’ writing style. Witty, realistic, entertaining, with a great pace and seamless transitions between different points of view.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
February 17, 2019
A fun uplifting story about friendship, motherhood, and life!
This book is a follow-up to Pippa Jame’s “I Will Survive” you could read it as a standalone, but why would you want to? Pippa James has created some very likable relatable and real characters that you will soon think of as friends... Allison, Kate, and Frankie are all very different women, but I could see a piece of myself in each of them... I think this is the true power of this book one or all of the characters will resonate with most women in one way or another... and as a mother of three whose days of navigating school drop off and pick up are long over it was nice to reminisce...
The book starts off with the three ladies making New Year’s resolutions or as they chose to call them a happiness project... to be more healthy, to be more Zen, to be more responsible, to step out of your comfort zone.... all things that are easier said than done especially when you live in the real world and have young children... Allison is trying to be a little more like her recently deceased mother-in-law Maggie, but those are pretty big shoes to fill... Kate is trying to be a little more zen during her third pregnancy, although her friend Natalie is not making this easy... Frankie is just trying to hold on to her job, hold on to her man, and hold her family together.... three women with the benefit of a strong friendship with one another, I am a firm believer that we all need good girlfriends in our lives!
This book was well paced I felt as though I was spending the day with some good friends, while reading this book...
Mud, a wedding, flip-flops, home brewed vegan beer, mud, and more mud, all made for a fantastic book... what Allison gets herself into in this book was a lot of fun to read! And the interactions between Kate and her so called friend Natalie made my blood boil... there is seriously nothing more annoying than somebody who has not had kids yet judging how you parent, it’s annoying enough with the person has kids, but parenting is hard and it’s personal and people need to stay in their own lane! Can you tell this is a bit of an issue for me? That’s not to say I never said my kids will never... before I had kids, and let me tell you that bit me back for sure! Ugh! Funny enough Frankie the most colorful character probably had the tamest storyline, although she had some major character growth and that was fun to watch....
A delightful story all about the good, the bad, and the ugly side of motherhood and womanhood! Recommend!
🎵🎵🎵 Song Running Through My Head
Here's a little song I wrote
You might want to sing it note for note
Don't worry, be happy
In every life we have some trouble
But when you worry you make it double
Don't worry, be happy
Don't worry, be happy now
don't worry
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) be happy
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) don't worry, be happy
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) don't worry
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) be happy
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) don't worry, be happy
Ain't got no place to lay your head
Somebody came and took your bed
Don't worry, be happy
The landlord say your rent is late
He may have to litigate
Don't worry, be happy
Oh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh don't worry, be happy
Here I…
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=L3HQMbQ...
*** many thanks to Bookouture for my copy of this book ***
This book is a follow-up to Pippa Jame’s “I Will Survive” you could read it as a standalone, but why would you want to? Pippa James has created some very likable relatable and real characters that you will soon think of as friends... Allison, Kate, and Frankie are all very different women, but I could see a piece of myself in each of them... I think this is the true power of this book one or all of the characters will resonate with most women in one way or another... and as a mother of three whose days of navigating school drop off and pick up are long over it was nice to reminisce...
The book starts off with the three ladies making New Year’s resolutions or as they chose to call them a happiness project... to be more healthy, to be more Zen, to be more responsible, to step out of your comfort zone.... all things that are easier said than done especially when you live in the real world and have young children... Allison is trying to be a little more like her recently deceased mother-in-law Maggie, but those are pretty big shoes to fill... Kate is trying to be a little more zen during her third pregnancy, although her friend Natalie is not making this easy... Frankie is just trying to hold on to her job, hold on to her man, and hold her family together.... three women with the benefit of a strong friendship with one another, I am a firm believer that we all need good girlfriends in our lives!
This book was well paced I felt as though I was spending the day with some good friends, while reading this book...
Mud, a wedding, flip-flops, home brewed vegan beer, mud, and more mud, all made for a fantastic book... what Allison gets herself into in this book was a lot of fun to read! And the interactions between Kate and her so called friend Natalie made my blood boil... there is seriously nothing more annoying than somebody who has not had kids yet judging how you parent, it’s annoying enough with the person has kids, but parenting is hard and it’s personal and people need to stay in their own lane! Can you tell this is a bit of an issue for me? That’s not to say I never said my kids will never... before I had kids, and let me tell you that bit me back for sure! Ugh! Funny enough Frankie the most colorful character probably had the tamest storyline, although she had some major character growth and that was fun to watch....
A delightful story all about the good, the bad, and the ugly side of motherhood and womanhood! Recommend!
🎵🎵🎵 Song Running Through My Head
Here's a little song I wrote
You might want to sing it note for note
Don't worry, be happy
In every life we have some trouble
But when you worry you make it double
Don't worry, be happy
Don't worry, be happy now
don't worry
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) be happy
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) don't worry, be happy
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) don't worry
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) be happy
(Ooh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh) don't worry, be happy
Ain't got no place to lay your head
Somebody came and took your bed
Don't worry, be happy
The landlord say your rent is late
He may have to litigate
Don't worry, be happy
Oh, ooh ooh ooh oo-ooh ooh oo-ooh don't worry, be happy
Here I…
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=L3HQMbQ...
*** many thanks to Bookouture for my copy of this book ***
January 15, 2019
Three friends meet to celebrate New Year’s Eve and plot the changes they want for the coming year. Alison wants to exercise more. Kate wants to find more zen during her third pregnancy. Frankie just wants to hold down a job longer than two weeks. As they try to live outside their comfort zones, each must wade through parenting problems, ex-friends, and relationship issues— all to complete their happiness project.
Each of these women are vastly different characters. Alison is organized, rigid in her ways, and the type of mom always ready with a healthy homemade snack. Kate maintains a quieter style, shy, and somewhat trapped under the stress in her life. Frankie might come across a bit gruff and somewhat flighty, but she’s still lovable. Author Pippa James marvelously plays with these differences. There’s something so realistic about their relationship— they’re the odd group of friends that almost seem thrust together, but still devoted to one another.
As well, James forces these three into situations that lets readers see both the best and worst of each at different times. So while readers might cheer Frankie at one point for landing her first job, they might be disappointed in how Kate handles confrontation in the next scene. With such a distinctive ensemble, readers will probably develop a favorite main character, or at least someone whose actions they can most justify. However, James allows each of the three their moment to shine while also showcasing where they need to grow. Her pacing is incredibly effective.
James also has so much to say about motherhood, and it’s refreshing to watch three women speak so candidly about their insecurities in that role. These moments feel the most real. One minute, Kate is handing over her phone for her daughter to play on. The next, she’s questioning everything about her parenting decisions. The amount of external pressure on each of these women to be the ‘perfect mother’ is both unfortunate and all too common.
And, of course, in a novel about New Year’s Resolutions (though packaged much nicer as a ‘happiness project’), there is plenty of focus on personal growth. This is another time when James’s careful consideration of these friendships helps push this novel into the next level. Alison, Kate, and Frankie are each supportive of the other, but it isn’t an all out love-fest. Frankie might offer Kate advice on dealing with a difficult friend, and Alison might redo Kate’s CV to land her a job, but they also fight, question, and make up. For each, moments of genuine reflection and growth happen not simply because of their friendship but, often, in spite of it. It feels both natural to life and unique to the genre.
All of this is not to suggest this book is entirely serious. It does have its light moment. A parade of animal costumes, impossible flip flops, and an obstacle course like no other each make hilarious appearances. There’s always something to cut the tension.
Pippa James has written a stellar novel of friendship, motherhood, and happiness.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Each of these women are vastly different characters. Alison is organized, rigid in her ways, and the type of mom always ready with a healthy homemade snack. Kate maintains a quieter style, shy, and somewhat trapped under the stress in her life. Frankie might come across a bit gruff and somewhat flighty, but she’s still lovable. Author Pippa James marvelously plays with these differences. There’s something so realistic about their relationship— they’re the odd group of friends that almost seem thrust together, but still devoted to one another.
As well, James forces these three into situations that lets readers see both the best and worst of each at different times. So while readers might cheer Frankie at one point for landing her first job, they might be disappointed in how Kate handles confrontation in the next scene. With such a distinctive ensemble, readers will probably develop a favorite main character, or at least someone whose actions they can most justify. However, James allows each of the three their moment to shine while also showcasing where they need to grow. Her pacing is incredibly effective.
James also has so much to say about motherhood, and it’s refreshing to watch three women speak so candidly about their insecurities in that role. These moments feel the most real. One minute, Kate is handing over her phone for her daughter to play on. The next, she’s questioning everything about her parenting decisions. The amount of external pressure on each of these women to be the ‘perfect mother’ is both unfortunate and all too common.
And, of course, in a novel about New Year’s Resolutions (though packaged much nicer as a ‘happiness project’), there is plenty of focus on personal growth. This is another time when James’s careful consideration of these friendships helps push this novel into the next level. Alison, Kate, and Frankie are each supportive of the other, but it isn’t an all out love-fest. Frankie might offer Kate advice on dealing with a difficult friend, and Alison might redo Kate’s CV to land her a job, but they also fight, question, and make up. For each, moments of genuine reflection and growth happen not simply because of their friendship but, often, in spite of it. It feels both natural to life and unique to the genre.
All of this is not to suggest this book is entirely serious. It does have its light moment. A parade of animal costumes, impossible flip flops, and an obstacle course like no other each make hilarious appearances. There’s always something to cut the tension.
Pippa James has written a stellar novel of friendship, motherhood, and happiness.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
December 20, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author, publisher, and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kate, Alison and Frankie are three young woman in their 20s who all have families. On New Year's eve they all decide to set New Year's resolutions to be more fit, more zen, and accomplished in the new year. Will they be able to complete their goals while juggling family and more? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good and heart-warming tale about friends, family, and accomplishing your goals. If you enjoy this type of story, be sure to check it out when this book releases on February 12, 2019.
Kate, Alison and Frankie are three young woman in their 20s who all have families. On New Year's eve they all decide to set New Year's resolutions to be more fit, more zen, and accomplished in the new year. Will they be able to complete their goals while juggling family and more? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good and heart-warming tale about friends, family, and accomplishing your goals. If you enjoy this type of story, be sure to check it out when this book releases on February 12, 2019.
February 4, 2019
I couldn't help but start this a few hours after I finished I Will Survive, and I'm glad I did as it meant I didn't have to try to remember anything, and it just felt like a continuation, ok a few months on but that's natural.
As a result I really can't comment on whether this works as a stand alone but I would recommend you read both books as they are equally fabulous, although with a slightly different vibe to them.
The Happiness Project felt more about all three women bettering themselves, and trying to keep to their New Years Resolutions that were renamed as a happiness project in order to make it sound simpler.
Frankie is the character I keep coming back to and really have a soft spot for her. She is chaotic, trying her hardest to be a responsible adult for Liam but never seems to quite go about things the right way. I loved seeing her at her new job, and there are some wonderful personality traits coming through for her.
Alison has all manner of resolutions, most of which don't seem to work but the one that pushes her outside of her comfort zone the most leads to one of the most enjoyable last sections of a book that I've read recently. I was laughing and smiling at what she was up to.
And then there is Kate, and I'd say most of her story line this time is more to do with another pregnant friend Nat, and their vastly different parenting styles. I would love to see more of Nat and see how she is getting on in another book.
I loved the fun feel to the previous book is still present, and despite the title, it wasn't really too much a look at the characters happiness in a deep way - it just felt like a natural continuation of the first book, but there was a sad event overshadowing everything but I'm glad from my own point of view that it didn't feel overly emotional - or it may just be because it was inevitable.
I really enjoyed probably about 98% of the book, the only bit that has frustrated me was the ending. All I'm going to say is I really hope that we see more of these characters as that really did feel far too much like an ending for now. If nothing else I want to see what the summer term brings for these mothers and their kids.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
As a result I really can't comment on whether this works as a stand alone but I would recommend you read both books as they are equally fabulous, although with a slightly different vibe to them.
The Happiness Project felt more about all three women bettering themselves, and trying to keep to their New Years Resolutions that were renamed as a happiness project in order to make it sound simpler.
Frankie is the character I keep coming back to and really have a soft spot for her. She is chaotic, trying her hardest to be a responsible adult for Liam but never seems to quite go about things the right way. I loved seeing her at her new job, and there are some wonderful personality traits coming through for her.
Alison has all manner of resolutions, most of which don't seem to work but the one that pushes her outside of her comfort zone the most leads to one of the most enjoyable last sections of a book that I've read recently. I was laughing and smiling at what she was up to.
And then there is Kate, and I'd say most of her story line this time is more to do with another pregnant friend Nat, and their vastly different parenting styles. I would love to see more of Nat and see how she is getting on in another book.
I loved the fun feel to the previous book is still present, and despite the title, it wasn't really too much a look at the characters happiness in a deep way - it just felt like a natural continuation of the first book, but there was a sad event overshadowing everything but I'm glad from my own point of view that it didn't feel overly emotional - or it may just be because it was inevitable.
I really enjoyed probably about 98% of the book, the only bit that has frustrated me was the ending. All I'm going to say is I really hope that we see more of these characters as that really did feel far too much like an ending for now. If nothing else I want to see what the summer term brings for these mothers and their kids.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 22, 2019
Please note that I received this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
I have to say that I dithered on a rating for this one. I think it would have been five stars if we actually followed the three women (Alison, Frankie, and Kate) for the whole year. They make resolutions for New Year and we stop in March/April timeframe. Also Alison's storyline felt like something was missing. She never talks to her husband about how she feels and about missing his mother. I thought her being the best mother ever thing was laughable since it seems she can't really cook and her kid is a nightmare. Frankie's storyline was very interesting with her trying to keep a job she was good at and moving her relationship along. I was disappointed with Kate's storyline though. Why the author didn't have Kate push back at her "friend" who criticized her choices when it came to motherhood was surprising.
The Happiness Project is a weird title for this book I thought. It seemed to me that none of the women really got happy until the very end of the book. There seemed to be a lot of things left unsaid and misunderstandings. I also thought that there should have been more scenes between the three women. Most of the time James just follows the three women separately with one of them wondering about the other one. I didn't get that they were best friends most of the time.
Alison is dealing with the loss of her mother in law that she was really close to. She decides that the New Year she will change things up to be better about and asks her two best friends (Kate and Frankie) to make resolutions too.
I thought it weird Alison didn't discuss her mother in law much with her husband. And her husband was just a jerk for most of the book telling that she really hasn't gotten out of her comfort zone and being condescending about everything she was doing. They don't have a real conversation it seems to me.
Kate is dealing with her third pregnancy and missing her husband who isn't around much. Throughout her story though she compares him to everyone around them, she realizes she's lucky. It's odd though we don't see her with her two kids besides a couple of scenes here and there. And then the plot has her meeting up with an old friend who mommy shames her.
Frankie is trying to find and keep a job. She's also doing her best to raise her 4 year old son without leaning on her mom or her ex much. A new relationship has her dealing with her boyfriend's vindictive ex though.
I thought the writing was good, but the flow wasn't. The three storylines at times seem totally separate from each other. I also thought that Alison and Frankie's tension wasn't that believable. I realize this is a sequel to the first book where the three women meet each other, but there doesn't seem to be much friendship here. Just a lot of people not speaking up to each other.
The ending was jut okay, not really earth-shattering or anything.
I have to say that I dithered on a rating for this one. I think it would have been five stars if we actually followed the three women (Alison, Frankie, and Kate) for the whole year. They make resolutions for New Year and we stop in March/April timeframe. Also Alison's storyline felt like something was missing. She never talks to her husband about how she feels and about missing his mother. I thought her being the best mother ever thing was laughable since it seems she can't really cook and her kid is a nightmare. Frankie's storyline was very interesting with her trying to keep a job she was good at and moving her relationship along. I was disappointed with Kate's storyline though. Why the author didn't have Kate push back at her "friend" who criticized her choices when it came to motherhood was surprising.
The Happiness Project is a weird title for this book I thought. It seemed to me that none of the women really got happy until the very end of the book. There seemed to be a lot of things left unsaid and misunderstandings. I also thought that there should have been more scenes between the three women. Most of the time James just follows the three women separately with one of them wondering about the other one. I didn't get that they were best friends most of the time.
Alison is dealing with the loss of her mother in law that she was really close to. She decides that the New Year she will change things up to be better about and asks her two best friends (Kate and Frankie) to make resolutions too.
I thought it weird Alison didn't discuss her mother in law much with her husband. And her husband was just a jerk for most of the book telling that she really hasn't gotten out of her comfort zone and being condescending about everything she was doing. They don't have a real conversation it seems to me.
Kate is dealing with her third pregnancy and missing her husband who isn't around much. Throughout her story though she compares him to everyone around them, she realizes she's lucky. It's odd though we don't see her with her two kids besides a couple of scenes here and there. And then the plot has her meeting up with an old friend who mommy shames her.
Frankie is trying to find and keep a job. She's also doing her best to raise her 4 year old son without leaning on her mom or her ex much. A new relationship has her dealing with her boyfriend's vindictive ex though.
I thought the writing was good, but the flow wasn't. The three storylines at times seem totally separate from each other. I also thought that Alison and Frankie's tension wasn't that believable. I realize this is a sequel to the first book where the three women meet each other, but there doesn't seem to be much friendship here. Just a lot of people not speaking up to each other.
The ending was jut okay, not really earth-shattering or anything.
February 24, 2019
I was definitely the wrong reader for this book. I requested it because I fancied a heartwarming humorous tale about female friendships, as an antidote to all the crime thrillers I’ve been reading recently. I was disappointed to discover that this is the sequel to I Will Survive, which was not clear from the blurb or on GoodReads. Had this not been a NetGalley book I would’ve given up at an early stage, so that’s another useful lesson learned. If you are in your thirties with young children you will probably love it.
Three women, each struggling with the stresses and drudgery of motherhood, make New Years resolutions. I didn’t like any of them. Frankie, prickly, disorganised, selfish, and borderline alcoholic, wants to find and keep a job to support her son, who is getting to know the father who abandoned them. Insecure Kate, unexpectedly pregnant with her third child, wants to feel more relaxed about it in spite of her wannabe earth mother friend giving her unhelpful advice, and perfectionist Alison, mourning the loss of her mother in law, wants to get out of her comfort zone and get one over the yummy mummies from the PTA.
This was nicely written, but I didn’t find it funny, and was pretty bored for most of it. Only the final 10% showed any real friendship between the women as generally they have nothing in common and are more envious of each other than anything else. I feel like I’m being overly harsh, as there are plenty of good reviews for this, so don’t let the fact that reading about women who chose motherhood, but then do nothing but moan about how hard it is, being one of my particular bugbears, put you off. In fact, if you are contemplating pregnancy, read this and get a cat instead!
I received this arc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The Happiness Project is a available now.
Three women, each struggling with the stresses and drudgery of motherhood, make New Years resolutions. I didn’t like any of them. Frankie, prickly, disorganised, selfish, and borderline alcoholic, wants to find and keep a job to support her son, who is getting to know the father who abandoned them. Insecure Kate, unexpectedly pregnant with her third child, wants to feel more relaxed about it in spite of her wannabe earth mother friend giving her unhelpful advice, and perfectionist Alison, mourning the loss of her mother in law, wants to get out of her comfort zone and get one over the yummy mummies from the PTA.
This was nicely written, but I didn’t find it funny, and was pretty bored for most of it. Only the final 10% showed any real friendship between the women as generally they have nothing in common and are more envious of each other than anything else. I feel like I’m being overly harsh, as there are plenty of good reviews for this, so don’t let the fact that reading about women who chose motherhood, but then do nothing but moan about how hard it is, being one of my particular bugbears, put you off. In fact, if you are contemplating pregnancy, read this and get a cat instead!
I received this arc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The Happiness Project is a available now.
February 12, 2019
I remember reading ‘I will survive’ a while ago and wishing it would be the start of a series and now it seems like I have been granted a wish. I am feeling like a very happy camper and after two books I am still not ready to say goodbye to the prontagonists. So, this means I am hoping the fairy godmother might listen to me again.
If I would pick a favourite character, it would be Frankie. She has issues, but she is so much fun.
It is nice to see that 3 totally different women can become friends and support each other and that you can built bridges with someone when you keep the bigger picture in mind.
I love the author’s writing style. It also made my smile how people who do not have children (yet) have a theory about how to bring up children. It makes me even smile more when they see that their theory has to be thoroughly adapted once the little one(s) arrive(s).
If you want to read this book (and of course you are lol), I would suggest you grab the previous as well so you do not miss out on how it all started.
I, for sure, will put this one in my 5 stars collection.
Thank you, Pippa James, Bookouture and Netgalley for the review copy.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
If I would pick a favourite character, it would be Frankie. She has issues, but she is so much fun.
It is nice to see that 3 totally different women can become friends and support each other and that you can built bridges with someone when you keep the bigger picture in mind.
I love the author’s writing style. It also made my smile how people who do not have children (yet) have a theory about how to bring up children. It makes me even smile more when they see that their theory has to be thoroughly adapted once the little one(s) arrive(s).
If you want to read this book (and of course you are lol), I would suggest you grab the previous as well so you do not miss out on how it all started.
I, for sure, will put this one in my 5 stars collection.
Thank you, Pippa James, Bookouture and Netgalley for the review copy.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
January 21, 2019
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review of “The Happiness Project”.
At the beginning of “The Happiness Project” we meet the three main characters, all mothers: hot-tempered, single Frankie, organised Alison and Kate, who is already a mother of two and is feeling less than excited about her new pregnancy. There isn’t a lot of context information about the characters and I found that confusing; after doing some online research I found out that THP is a sequel to another book by Pippa James, “I will survive”. I wish I had known this because reading THP first I felt I missed a lot of information about these characters.
Frankie, Alison and Kate meet on New Year’s Eve and decide to make resolutions or, as they decide to call them, a Happiness Project. Kate decides to chill and enjoy her pregnancy, Frankie resolves to sort out her financial life by finding a stable job - and keeping it, and Alison, who has just lost her mother-in-law, decides to get fit and make some changes in her family’s diet. As the year progresses, the three characters try to keep their Happiness Project going… but sometimes it isn’t easy: life gets in the way.
One aspect I really liked about the book is that the three women act as a wonderful support system for each other. In the book, there are plenty of female characters and not all of them are friendly or supportive: we have ex-wives of boyfriends, queen-of-the-PTA mothers and even a close friend gone vegan that judges every single choice made by more “traditional” mothers. But Alison, Kate and Frankie can always find their safe space when they get together. I also liked the different models of motherhood that are portrayed in the book: I think you can get the message that no model is perfect: at the end of the day, each mum just tries to do what she can to keep her children happy, in a way that aligns with her personal values.
This book caught my interest because the synopsis compared it to some other books I had previously read and loved… and I’m sorry to say it has nothing to do with them. It’s way more shallow and I didn’t feel a connection with the characters. It’s supposed to be a fun, light read but it felt very slow for me. I liked the premise of the story and the synopsis, but as I reader I prefer deeper books - and I believe that you can find that in this particular genre.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book.
At the beginning of “The Happiness Project” we meet the three main characters, all mothers: hot-tempered, single Frankie, organised Alison and Kate, who is already a mother of two and is feeling less than excited about her new pregnancy. There isn’t a lot of context information about the characters and I found that confusing; after doing some online research I found out that THP is a sequel to another book by Pippa James, “I will survive”. I wish I had known this because reading THP first I felt I missed a lot of information about these characters.
Frankie, Alison and Kate meet on New Year’s Eve and decide to make resolutions or, as they decide to call them, a Happiness Project. Kate decides to chill and enjoy her pregnancy, Frankie resolves to sort out her financial life by finding a stable job - and keeping it, and Alison, who has just lost her mother-in-law, decides to get fit and make some changes in her family’s diet. As the year progresses, the three characters try to keep their Happiness Project going… but sometimes it isn’t easy: life gets in the way.
One aspect I really liked about the book is that the three women act as a wonderful support system for each other. In the book, there are plenty of female characters and not all of them are friendly or supportive: we have ex-wives of boyfriends, queen-of-the-PTA mothers and even a close friend gone vegan that judges every single choice made by more “traditional” mothers. But Alison, Kate and Frankie can always find their safe space when they get together. I also liked the different models of motherhood that are portrayed in the book: I think you can get the message that no model is perfect: at the end of the day, each mum just tries to do what she can to keep her children happy, in a way that aligns with her personal values.
This book caught my interest because the synopsis compared it to some other books I had previously read and loved… and I’m sorry to say it has nothing to do with them. It’s way more shallow and I didn’t feel a connection with the characters. It’s supposed to be a fun, light read but it felt very slow for me. I liked the premise of the story and the synopsis, but as I reader I prefer deeper books - and I believe that you can find that in this particular genre.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book.
January 17, 2019
Thank you to bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Happiness Project explores the lives of three friends who decide together that at the start of the new year, they will make changes to spark happiness, including securing a new job, improving health and wellness, and facing motherhood with a new outlook.
Generally, I enjoy a lighthearted friendship read and was immediately drawn in by the cover art and premise of this story. Unfortunately, this book missed the mark for me in nearly all aspects: I found each character completely unlikable, I found their commitment to The Happiness Project to be silly and not fleshed out, and the story seemed to pick up where another left off so I didn't understand why these women were friends or why I should care about these months in their lives. I just wasn't rooting for anyone at all.
I am disappointed in this story, and I cannot recommend this as a light winter read. 1-2 star read, sadly.
Merged review:
Thank you to bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Happiness Project explores the lives of three friends who decide together that at the start of the new year, they will make changes to spark happiness, including securing a new job, improving health and wellness, and facing motherhood with a new outlook.
Generally, I enjoy a lighthearted friendship read and was immediately drawn in by the cover art and premise of this story. Unfortunately, this book missed the mark for me in nearly all aspects: I found each character completely unlikable, I found their commitment to The Happiness Project to be silly and not fleshed out, and the story seemed to pick up where another left off so I didn't understand why these women were friends or why I should care about these months in their lives. I just wasn't rooting for anyone at all.
I am disappointed in this story, and I cannot recommend this as a light winter read.
The Happiness Project explores the lives of three friends who decide together that at the start of the new year, they will make changes to spark happiness, including securing a new job, improving health and wellness, and facing motherhood with a new outlook.
Generally, I enjoy a lighthearted friendship read and was immediately drawn in by the cover art and premise of this story. Unfortunately, this book missed the mark for me in nearly all aspects: I found each character completely unlikable, I found their commitment to The Happiness Project to be silly and not fleshed out, and the story seemed to pick up where another left off so I didn't understand why these women were friends or why I should care about these months in their lives. I just wasn't rooting for anyone at all.
I am disappointed in this story, and I cannot recommend this as a light winter read. 1-2 star read, sadly.
Merged review:
Thank you to bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Happiness Project explores the lives of three friends who decide together that at the start of the new year, they will make changes to spark happiness, including securing a new job, improving health and wellness, and facing motherhood with a new outlook.
Generally, I enjoy a lighthearted friendship read and was immediately drawn in by the cover art and premise of this story. Unfortunately, this book missed the mark for me in nearly all aspects: I found each character completely unlikable, I found their commitment to The Happiness Project to be silly and not fleshed out, and the story seemed to pick up where another left off so I didn't understand why these women were friends or why I should care about these months in their lives. I just wasn't rooting for anyone at all.
I am disappointed in this story, and I cannot recommend this as a light winter read.
February 13, 2019
Three friends, all mums, make new year's resolutions: Alison the hyper-organised perfect wife and mother wants to get fit; Kate the pregnant mother of two is feeling a bit overwhelmed and just wants to be a bit more zen; and Frankie, the single mother, just wants to be able to hold down a job and 'adult'. These three unlikely friends have to combat their own high expectations (Alison), boyfriend's ex-wives (Frankie) and newly pregnant friends who judge their parenting skills (Kate).
I liked this, three unlikely friends each with their own problems, each with their own resolution as they meet their resolutions in unusual ways. It's a reminder that what we look like on the outside isn't always how we feel on the inside, the carefree fun single mum who breezes through parenting may feel like a complete failure on the inside when compared to the mum who prepares homemade packed lunches, labels her child's clothes properly and is a member of the PTA.
Recommended for fans of Katie Fforde.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
I liked this, three unlikely friends each with their own problems, each with their own resolution as they meet their resolutions in unusual ways. It's a reminder that what we look like on the outside isn't always how we feel on the inside, the carefree fun single mum who breezes through parenting may feel like a complete failure on the inside when compared to the mum who prepares homemade packed lunches, labels her child's clothes properly and is a member of the PTA.
Recommended for fans of Katie Fforde.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
November 1, 2023
A huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC to review. My sincerest apologies it took me so long.
3,5/5
I truly don't remember why I thought this would be the book for me. I must have gone solely off the cover and the 'One Day in December' mention; which, this book is nothing like At All.
Having said that, I didn't hate it. It was an easy and quick read, but just not for me. I hope the eventual book got rid of the several inconsistencies later on in the book (character goes from cooking to suddenly having take out; a light is turned on and then turned on again; 3 runners left, two drop out, and there are still 3 left) as they really took me out of it.
I also loved the ending! Frankie was by far my favorite character and the end proved that, even if calling your resolutions achieved in April feels like a recipe for everything going to shit after, haha!
So yeah, if this is the kinda book you're into, you'll probably love it!
3,5/5
I truly don't remember why I thought this would be the book for me. I must have gone solely off the cover and the 'One Day in December' mention; which, this book is nothing like At All.
Having said that, I didn't hate it. It was an easy and quick read, but just not for me. I hope the eventual book got rid of the several inconsistencies later on in the book (character goes from cooking to suddenly having take out; a light is turned on and then turned on again; 3 runners left, two drop out, and there are still 3 left) as they really took me out of it.
I also loved the ending! Frankie was by far my favorite character and the end proved that, even if calling your resolutions achieved in April feels like a recipe for everything going to shit after, haha!
So yeah, if this is the kinda book you're into, you'll probably love it!
January 6, 2026
Okay, turns out I read that in the past and didn't remember until I saw my review from 2019.... Oops. Not as excited about it as the first time I got to read it. It was enjoyable, though. A nice read.
February 12, 2019
Someone please tell me why I haven’t read a Pippa James book before!?! I was drawn into this story from the first page. We meet Alison, Kate and Frankie who agree on New Years Eve to make a pact called The Happiness Project (Alison’s name for the agreement) this leads each women to make a New Years resolution for themselves. I will let you find out their resolutions by reading the book. These three women couldn’t be more different yet they are really close friends. Pippa has written this book in a way that reveals each character’s story separately but in a way that smoothly brings them together in different situations, in no way was I confused by this format. I loved all the characters in this book however Frankie really stood out for me, she’s determined and totally sticks up for herself (even if this means getting herself in a little trouble!) Kate seemed shy but she really supported her friends no matter what. Also Alison is the organised one but I found her personality flourished by the end of the book. Of course I can’t leave out the kids, they were so amusing!
Pippa’s writing is witty, laid back (so easy to read and enjoy!) I didn’t for one second get lost or confused with the narrative of this book. To me this is a book about friendship, determination and being the bigger person! I was totally engrossed whilst reading ‘The Happiness Project’ There were so many twists and turns in this story that I was feeling different emotions for different parts! (What a rollercoaster!)
I already have Pippa’s other book ‘I Will Survive’ on my kindle (no clue why I haven’t read that before now!) as I have to say I’m quite a fan of Pippa after reading ‘The Happiness Project’ I give ‘The Happiness Project’ a very much deserved 5*/5* 😊
Thank you to Bookouture and Pippa for an advanced copy of this book via Netgalley.
Pippa’s writing is witty, laid back (so easy to read and enjoy!) I didn’t for one second get lost or confused with the narrative of this book. To me this is a book about friendship, determination and being the bigger person! I was totally engrossed whilst reading ‘The Happiness Project’ There were so many twists and turns in this story that I was feeling different emotions for different parts! (What a rollercoaster!)
I already have Pippa’s other book ‘I Will Survive’ on my kindle (no clue why I haven’t read that before now!) as I have to say I’m quite a fan of Pippa after reading ‘The Happiness Project’ I give ‘The Happiness Project’ a very much deserved 5*/5* 😊
Thank you to Bookouture and Pippa for an advanced copy of this book via Netgalley.
March 10, 2019
I was drawn to this book through the promise of making positive changes in an effort to bring more happiness into one’s life. Three friends decide to start the new year afresh with the goal of reaching greater heights of happiness - through either a job, health or new family outlook.
I felt the author tried to make the interactions between the three friends as down to earth and realistic as possible, however for me, it just did not work. Perhaps, those that read the first book (this is the second in the series but can be read as a stand-alone) may have found a greater connection to the characters, unfortunately I really struggled and found them underdeveloped on the whole.
There also appeared to be much unresolved, for example, rather strange that it is a year’s resolution yet the book ends within the first few months of the year. As mentioned, I found some of the characters - main and secondary - behaviour at times, to not quite gel and I didn’t really empathise with them. So all up, a well written story that will definitely appeal to some with its classic chick lit approach in both character and story - for me, however, it just fell a little flat which is disappointing as the premise was a worthy one.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release
I felt the author tried to make the interactions between the three friends as down to earth and realistic as possible, however for me, it just did not work. Perhaps, those that read the first book (this is the second in the series but can be read as a stand-alone) may have found a greater connection to the characters, unfortunately I really struggled and found them underdeveloped on the whole.
There also appeared to be much unresolved, for example, rather strange that it is a year’s resolution yet the book ends within the first few months of the year. As mentioned, I found some of the characters - main and secondary - behaviour at times, to not quite gel and I didn’t really empathise with them. So all up, a well written story that will definitely appeal to some with its classic chick lit approach in both character and story - for me, however, it just fell a little flat which is disappointing as the premise was a worthy one.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release
May 12, 2019
Firstly I would like to thank NetGalley for proving me with an eARC copy of this book; all the views and opinions discussed below are my own.
I want to start by saying that this isn’t really my normal genre; I do read some contemporary books, but it’s not my go-to genre here. So this may affect how I viewed this book; I requested this book because I thought it looked quite nice and lighthearted, and honestly that is what the book was. It was a nice easy read overall; it wasn’t particularly gripping and I wasn’t overly invested in any of the characters, however I didn’t hate the book. I don’t really have any overall strong feelings to this book, but it wasn’t terrible.
One of the main issues I have is that I am still confused at how these characters became friends? I feel like this might be something i’ve missed but I also don’t think it was very clearly explained at any point but we’re suddenly meant to believe that they’re best friends? I think this is something that I really struggled with because none of the main three characters really seem to connect to one another and we actually very rarely see them together; we swap between their POV’s and most of this time they are just focused on themselves and sometimes they might think about one of the other characters, but that was about it. I honestly just didn’t get the impression that they were best friends. Also the partners for each characters were a bit bland, I honestly can’t even remember what all their names are now, but they all just seem to blend into one characters. They were all quite typical husbands/partners, and nothing about them really stood out to me.
The plot of this book is about these women finding happiness, but I honestly don’t think they really did find happiness. The women always seemed to internalise their issues, and never really pushed back or confronted what was going on. Alison never speaks to her husband about how she is feeling, Kate doesn’t push back against her friend about her comments on her as a mother, and honestly all Frankie does is push back but she just seems so angry and just flies off at the drop of a hat. The “tension” we’re meant to view between Frankie and Alison was done poorly in my view; I never felt any tension between them and just felt it came out of nowhere and was just another plot point for them to hurdle over. That said I did enjoy the mud run scene, but there was so much time spent on that when it could have been used to really develop the characters further.
The writing itself wasn’t bad, but I just never really understood the overall motivations of the characters and so found it hard to connect to them. This was an okay read, but it won’t be a book that i’ll be purchasing a copy of.
I want to start by saying that this isn’t really my normal genre; I do read some contemporary books, but it’s not my go-to genre here. So this may affect how I viewed this book; I requested this book because I thought it looked quite nice and lighthearted, and honestly that is what the book was. It was a nice easy read overall; it wasn’t particularly gripping and I wasn’t overly invested in any of the characters, however I didn’t hate the book. I don’t really have any overall strong feelings to this book, but it wasn’t terrible.
One of the main issues I have is that I am still confused at how these characters became friends? I feel like this might be something i’ve missed but I also don’t think it was very clearly explained at any point but we’re suddenly meant to believe that they’re best friends? I think this is something that I really struggled with because none of the main three characters really seem to connect to one another and we actually very rarely see them together; we swap between their POV’s and most of this time they are just focused on themselves and sometimes they might think about one of the other characters, but that was about it. I honestly just didn’t get the impression that they were best friends. Also the partners for each characters were a bit bland, I honestly can’t even remember what all their names are now, but they all just seem to blend into one characters. They were all quite typical husbands/partners, and nothing about them really stood out to me.
The plot of this book is about these women finding happiness, but I honestly don’t think they really did find happiness. The women always seemed to internalise their issues, and never really pushed back or confronted what was going on. Alison never speaks to her husband about how she is feeling, Kate doesn’t push back against her friend about her comments on her as a mother, and honestly all Frankie does is push back but she just seems so angry and just flies off at the drop of a hat. The “tension” we’re meant to view between Frankie and Alison was done poorly in my view; I never felt any tension between them and just felt it came out of nowhere and was just another plot point for them to hurdle over. That said I did enjoy the mud run scene, but there was so much time spent on that when it could have been used to really develop the characters further.
The writing itself wasn’t bad, but I just never really understood the overall motivations of the characters and so found it hard to connect to them. This was an okay read, but it won’t be a book that i’ll be purchasing a copy of.
February 13, 2019
When you whoop for joy at the end of a book you know the author has created something special. I completely loved this book and devoured it in one day as it was too good to put down. The struggles of life, family and motherhood are an absolute mind field where rules change on a daily basis and everyone is a critic. This book highlights these issues with perfect humour and the right amount of tongue in cheek.
Now let me introduce you to the three leading ladies......Frankie is a perfect mess and my outright favourite. The chaos that is her life brought the best comic relief moments to the book and I found her haphazard approach to life endearing and heartwarming. Alison is striving for perfection but is her own worst enemy, but her journey throughout the book brought the most satisfaction in terms of growth and self acceptance. Kate was an instantly likeable character and I spent the majority of the book feeling indignation on her behalf. The joys of pregnancy knows no bounds but contrasting approaches to motherhood can only lead to disaster and my heart went out to her on many occasions.
The Happiness Project is an uplifting and feel good story that will leave you wanting more.....hint hint hint. I absolutely feel like these women have so much more to say and look forward to reading their next chapter in life in the near future.
Now let me introduce you to the three leading ladies......Frankie is a perfect mess and my outright favourite. The chaos that is her life brought the best comic relief moments to the book and I found her haphazard approach to life endearing and heartwarming. Alison is striving for perfection but is her own worst enemy, but her journey throughout the book brought the most satisfaction in terms of growth and self acceptance. Kate was an instantly likeable character and I spent the majority of the book feeling indignation on her behalf. The joys of pregnancy knows no bounds but contrasting approaches to motherhood can only lead to disaster and my heart went out to her on many occasions.
The Happiness Project is an uplifting and feel good story that will leave you wanting more.....hint hint hint. I absolutely feel like these women have so much more to say and look forward to reading their next chapter in life in the near future.
February 12, 2019
A wonderfully written story of three very different women who are challenge each other in the best of ways, even if it means being a little, okay hugely pushy and annoying! I had moments where I wondered what brought these women together and why they even liked each other. For them to be any more different than each other would have required herculean effort. I honestly at times found them and their pushiness and overwhelming invasiveness bordering on annoying, mean, self-serving and a little hateful and wanted to stop reading. Had this not been an advanced readers copy I may have put down and revisited at a later. I am so glad I did not have the time to do so! I truly enjoyed getting to watch them all grow, support push, at times seriously annoy, push back at each other and yet embrace the love and forge ahead to lead better more fulfilled lives. Life is hard even on the best of days and to have such wonderful friends to help you through all the while finding some humor in it is a wonderful gift.
The moment this book is released I recommend reading it! We all hope to have such great friendships.
The moment this book is released I recommend reading it! We all hope to have such great friendships.
January 27, 2019
A quick read following three mothers and their New Year’s Resolutions or ‘the happiness project’ as they refer to it. This is the second book in the series but it can be easily read as a stand-alone as I did.
I enjoyed reading each section following the characters but I can’t say I warmed to many of them. Frankie was probably the most interesting and had the best story but I found the others to be quite two dimensional and a little uninteresting. It’s classic chick-lit featuring some fairly bland plots and characterisation. Having said that, I did found that it got more interesting towards the end but I can’t say that I was gripped. It was well written and structured but not particularly memorable.
I enjoyed reading each section following the characters but I can’t say I warmed to many of them. Frankie was probably the most interesting and had the best story but I found the others to be quite two dimensional and a little uninteresting. It’s classic chick-lit featuring some fairly bland plots and characterisation. Having said that, I did found that it got more interesting towards the end but I can’t say that I was gripped. It was well written and structured but not particularly memorable.
February 19, 2019
Frankie and Kate arrive at Alison’s home on New Year’s Eve bearing wine. Alison convinces them to make New Years Resolutions and so they plan the changes they want to make for the coming year.
Alison wants to exercise more to get back her fitness. Kate wants to find more zen during her third pregnancy, to just enjoy it this time round. Frankie just wants a job and not the multi-drop parcel delivery she has just quit...
Each of these women must make their way with the various parenting problems, some relationship issues and past friends all trying to fulfil their happiness project.
The three friends are very different, ‘scary’ Alison is the ultimate organiser and part earth mother. Kate is quite shy and generally stressed by life...Frankie flits about, moody, scatty and lovable.
I love Pippa James’ writing, the way the three friends interact, with their relatable problems and insecurities feels so real. The question I’m sure every mother has asked, am I doing this right ? What makes a good mother? And the pressure women feel to be able to do it all is immense and this is reflected in this tale wonderfully.
This is not all airy and light, the friends do have arguments and issues are serious but it’s also got its light times with some laugh out loud moments to break the tension.
Pippa James has written a completely relatable, funny, heartwarming novel about being a mother, a friend and ultimately happiness.....wonderful.
I would like to thank the Author/bookouture/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
Merged review:
Frankie and Kate arrive at Alison’s home on New Year’s Eve bearing wine. Alison convinces them to make New Years Resolutions and so they plan the changes they want to make for the coming year.
Alison wants to exercise more to get back her fitness. Kate wants to find more zen during her third pregnancy, to just enjoy it this time round. Frankie just wants a job and not the multi-drop parcel delivery she has just quit…
Each of these women must make their way with the various parenting problems, some relationship issues and past friends all trying to fulfil their happiness project.
The three friends are very different, ‘scary’ Alison is the ultimate organiser and part earth mother. Kate is quite shy and generally stressed by life…Frankie flits about, moody, scatty and lovable.
I love Pippa James’ writing, the way the three friends interact, with their relatable problems and insecurities feels so real. The question I’m sure every mother has asked, am I doing this right ? What makes a good mother? And the pressure women feel to be able to do it all is immense and this is reflected in this tale wonderfully.
This is not all airy and light, the friends do have arguments and issues are serious but it’s also got its light times with some laugh out loud moments to break the tension.
Pippa James has written a completely relatable, funny, heartwarming novel about being a mother, a friend and ultimately happiness…..wonderful.
Thank you to Bookouture for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Alison wants to exercise more to get back her fitness. Kate wants to find more zen during her third pregnancy, to just enjoy it this time round. Frankie just wants a job and not the multi-drop parcel delivery she has just quit...
Each of these women must make their way with the various parenting problems, some relationship issues and past friends all trying to fulfil their happiness project.
The three friends are very different, ‘scary’ Alison is the ultimate organiser and part earth mother. Kate is quite shy and generally stressed by life...Frankie flits about, moody, scatty and lovable.
I love Pippa James’ writing, the way the three friends interact, with their relatable problems and insecurities feels so real. The question I’m sure every mother has asked, am I doing this right ? What makes a good mother? And the pressure women feel to be able to do it all is immense and this is reflected in this tale wonderfully.
This is not all airy and light, the friends do have arguments and issues are serious but it’s also got its light times with some laugh out loud moments to break the tension.
Pippa James has written a completely relatable, funny, heartwarming novel about being a mother, a friend and ultimately happiness.....wonderful.
I would like to thank the Author/bookouture/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review
Merged review:
Frankie and Kate arrive at Alison’s home on New Year’s Eve bearing wine. Alison convinces them to make New Years Resolutions and so they plan the changes they want to make for the coming year.
Alison wants to exercise more to get back her fitness. Kate wants to find more zen during her third pregnancy, to just enjoy it this time round. Frankie just wants a job and not the multi-drop parcel delivery she has just quit…
Each of these women must make their way with the various parenting problems, some relationship issues and past friends all trying to fulfil their happiness project.
The three friends are very different, ‘scary’ Alison is the ultimate organiser and part earth mother. Kate is quite shy and generally stressed by life…Frankie flits about, moody, scatty and lovable.
I love Pippa James’ writing, the way the three friends interact, with their relatable problems and insecurities feels so real. The question I’m sure every mother has asked, am I doing this right ? What makes a good mother? And the pressure women feel to be able to do it all is immense and this is reflected in this tale wonderfully.
This is not all airy and light, the friends do have arguments and issues are serious but it’s also got its light times with some laugh out loud moments to break the tension.
Pippa James has written a completely relatable, funny, heartwarming novel about being a mother, a friend and ultimately happiness…..wonderful.
Thank you to Bookouture for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest review.
February 26, 2019
*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
The book follows three women: Alison, Frankie and Kate. They are all mothers. Kate has two kids and the third one is on the way. Frankie is very chaotic and a single mom. And then we have Alison, who’s mother-in-law passes away and now she has to do all by herself.
The three friends decide to have a fresh start at the beginning of the year and come up with a plan. It’s all connected to live, health, jobs etc.
I liked the idea of the book, but I think I just expected something completely different. I couldn’t warm to the characters and that made it really hard.
I have to be honest, I struggled with this book. I really had difficulties getting into the story, I couldn’t relate to the characters and I feel like the title is a bit misleading. I really wanted to like it and give it a chance. I finished it, but couldn’t really warm up to the storyline. It’s well written and structured, but there was no real excitement for me and it was just not gripping.
The friendship aspect was the strongest part of this book. I think the author really grasped it and included it in the story.
The book follows three women: Alison, Frankie and Kate. They are all mothers. Kate has two kids and the third one is on the way. Frankie is very chaotic and a single mom. And then we have Alison, who’s mother-in-law passes away and now she has to do all by herself.
The three friends decide to have a fresh start at the beginning of the year and come up with a plan. It’s all connected to live, health, jobs etc.
I liked the idea of the book, but I think I just expected something completely different. I couldn’t warm to the characters and that made it really hard.
I have to be honest, I struggled with this book. I really had difficulties getting into the story, I couldn’t relate to the characters and I feel like the title is a bit misleading. I really wanted to like it and give it a chance. I finished it, but couldn’t really warm up to the storyline. It’s well written and structured, but there was no real excitement for me and it was just not gripping.
The friendship aspect was the strongest part of this book. I think the author really grasped it and included it in the story.
February 14, 2019
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Thank you to Bookouture for letting me take part in this tour. I recently read I Will Survive and really enjoyed it so I was excited to return to these characters.
The story is set a few months after the end of I Will Survive. Alison decides that the three of them, herself, Kate and Frankie, need new years resolutions which she titles their Happiness Project. Kate wants to be more Zen for her third pregnancy, Frankie wants to be, well be a real grown up I guess and Alison wants to exercise more, eat healthily and learn how to live again.
Much like the first book this story is peppered with funny moments, PTA politics and real mum problems. Pippa manages to both tell a realistic and heartwarming story while making you laugh through some of the pain of losing a loved one.
It was a joy to return to these characters. This is a light, easy read that was perfect to curl up with on these cold miserable nights. I look forward to seeing what Pippa will bring us in the future.
The story is set a few months after the end of I Will Survive. Alison decides that the three of them, herself, Kate and Frankie, need new years resolutions which she titles their Happiness Project. Kate wants to be more Zen for her third pregnancy, Frankie wants to be, well be a real grown up I guess and Alison wants to exercise more, eat healthily and learn how to live again.
Much like the first book this story is peppered with funny moments, PTA politics and real mum problems. Pippa manages to both tell a realistic and heartwarming story while making you laugh through some of the pain of losing a loved one.
It was a joy to return to these characters. This is a light, easy read that was perfect to curl up with on these cold miserable nights. I look forward to seeing what Pippa will bring us in the future.
January 11, 2019
This book follows the story of three friends who decide to create a happiness project to challenge themselves to make changes to their lives in the new year. Alison's beloved Mother-In-Law has died, and they vow to do things differently to find happiness, helping each other along the way.
The Characters in this book are all very different to one another, and have completely different lifestyles. They all have the same fear that they are not good enough at being a parent. This book shows that despite appearances, people can be insecure, it shows how real friends support and help each other other. The story moves seamlessly between characters, and it is easy to follow the story. All three friends have flaws, and struggle to feel accepted. The characters are likeable and relatable, with realistic problems.
This book was well written and heartwarming. It was funny in places, and also moving and inspiring. I did not know that this book was a sequel until I finished it, but it did not detract from my understanding and enjoyment of the story in any way. It can definitely be read as a standalone book, although I am looking forward to reading the first book as soon as possible. I absolutely recommended this book.
The Characters in this book are all very different to one another, and have completely different lifestyles. They all have the same fear that they are not good enough at being a parent. This book shows that despite appearances, people can be insecure, it shows how real friends support and help each other other. The story moves seamlessly between characters, and it is easy to follow the story. All three friends have flaws, and struggle to feel accepted. The characters are likeable and relatable, with realistic problems.
This book was well written and heartwarming. It was funny in places, and also moving and inspiring. I did not know that this book was a sequel until I finished it, but it did not detract from my understanding and enjoyment of the story in any way. It can definitely be read as a standalone book, although I am looking forward to reading the first book as soon as possible. I absolutely recommended this book.
February 11, 2019
For me, this book was just ok. I feel like it was a washed out version of what it could have been. The highs weren't high enough and the lows weren't low enough. Sure things happened in the story, but I felt like the only action was Frankie overreacting to situations around her. Even at the beginning when the premise of the book was established, I didn't feel like the characters were even committed to the concept that would theoretically drive the plot of the book. I gave it 3, versus 2, stars because despite never feeling like we got to the action of the story, it was a cute diversion. Maybe this would be better as a mindless beach read?
A copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.
A copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2019
The premise of this book appealed to me. I figured it was a cute, British chick lit book that would be a quick, fun weekend read. And it was a quick read, but I was a little disappointed that this was apparently a sequel. I was too far in to the story to quit and read the first book, so I continued on. Although this could be read as a stand-alone, I definitely think knowing the backstories of the main characters would have enhanced the story.
I found Frankie the most interesting of the three women in the book, but, I still felt that the characters were underdeveloped, and the idea of a "happiness project" was not fully explored.
Overall, it was a perfectly okay read. Not entirely what I wanted, but that may be because I haven't read the first book and was not totally invested in the characters.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher for an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts and review.
I found Frankie the most interesting of the three women in the book, but, I still felt that the characters were underdeveloped, and the idea of a "happiness project" was not fully explored.
Overall, it was a perfectly okay read. Not entirely what I wanted, but that may be because I haven't read the first book and was not totally invested in the characters.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher for an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts and review.
February 13, 2019
Having not read I Will Survive, which introduces the three main characters in this story the three women Alison, Kate and Frankie jump right into this story on New Year’s Eve, just after Alison lost her mother-in-law. With Kate, now newly pregnant and Frankie, newly unemployed, these three catch up with one another at the school gates, and in the in-between times when time, babysitters and life allows. And these three are rather solidly defined in their personalities: Alison is organized within an inch of her (and everyone’s) life with a plan for everything and a place for every plan. Frankie is the single mum who has taken the ‘failure’ label to the next level in terms of her confidence – but is bold, self-determined and unwilling to let anyone or anything take advantage of those she cares about. Lastly there is Kate – with her two children and one on the way she’s more the caretaker, the people pleaser and nurturing one who manages to keep her finger in every pie, even if she’s exhausted.
The three have decided to make resolutions for the new year – resolutions that will be both a challenge and a step away from their ‘comfort zone’. With Alison organizing Frankie’s CV, Frankie’s found a new job that has potential for upward mobility, with solid ideas, if an allergy to organizing and ‘trying to adult” don’t get in her way. Kate’s reconnected with a former girlfriend of her husband’s best friend – and finding her “I know everything about Earth Mother living even though I’ve never had a child proclamations to be judgy – and fueling her own ‘bad mum’ guilt. And we have Alison who’s trying on different things to see if they ‘fit’ in an effort to stretch her own personal experiences. Strangest of all, these three are building a friendship that is truly based in little more than being the “outsiders’ in the PTA mums – and proximity seems to make all the difference.
There are no huge ‘aha’ moments for any of them – and quite frankly - everyone is so busy hiding their worries and ‘bad mum’ moments that the time to really share the deeply personal stuff between them is missing, and that left this story feeling more like a year in the life, with Frankie actually making the biggest tangible strides, while both Katie and Alison found little victories and moments. What James does really well is show the ups and downs of relationships, adulting, friendships and self-belief in ways that feel plausible, if a bit frantic at times. A solid book that would have done better by establishing the connections between the three, or making it very clear that this was the second featuring these characters.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
The three have decided to make resolutions for the new year – resolutions that will be both a challenge and a step away from their ‘comfort zone’. With Alison organizing Frankie’s CV, Frankie’s found a new job that has potential for upward mobility, with solid ideas, if an allergy to organizing and ‘trying to adult” don’t get in her way. Kate’s reconnected with a former girlfriend of her husband’s best friend – and finding her “I know everything about Earth Mother living even though I’ve never had a child proclamations to be judgy – and fueling her own ‘bad mum’ guilt. And we have Alison who’s trying on different things to see if they ‘fit’ in an effort to stretch her own personal experiences. Strangest of all, these three are building a friendship that is truly based in little more than being the “outsiders’ in the PTA mums – and proximity seems to make all the difference.
There are no huge ‘aha’ moments for any of them – and quite frankly - everyone is so busy hiding their worries and ‘bad mum’ moments that the time to really share the deeply personal stuff between them is missing, and that left this story feeling more like a year in the life, with Frankie actually making the biggest tangible strides, while both Katie and Alison found little victories and moments. What James does really well is show the ups and downs of relationships, adulting, friendships and self-belief in ways that feel plausible, if a bit frantic at times. A solid book that would have done better by establishing the connections between the three, or making it very clear that this was the second featuring these characters.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
February 10, 2019
This is the story of three friends – Alison, Kate and Frankie. If you have read the author’s previous book, I Will Survive, you will recognise these women already! They were the main characters from this book and whilst they all had vastly different personalities, they all became close friends when they met at their children’s school. In this book we meet up with the ladies again right at New Year. Alison’s world has just come crashing down around her after her mother in law, Maggie passes away and she decides they all need a New Year’s Resolution, which she calls The Happiness Project. For the three of them, their resolutions consist of keeping fit, being healthier and learning how to live again. Vowing to be more like Maggie, Alison tries to find her happiness back but finds it more difficult than she could ever imagine.
I didn’t realise at first that this was a follow on from I Will Survive, the thing that attracted me to the book initially was the beautiful cover! When I realised that I had met these characters before, I reread my review from the previous book just to give me a reminder of who they were. By doing that I remembered how much I had enjoyed that book and the characters, so I knew I was going to enjoy this book also.
I loved all of the three women in different ways, but the one I could definitely relate to more was Alison. I could see so much of myself in her, especially in her organisational abilities!! I have a bit of a thing for stationery, lists and plans and can’t think of anything better than to have sticky labels over everything and that everything should be in its right place and perfectly co-ordinated!! So did Alison, and I could totally get how she was feeling when she wanted to behave more spontaneously and do things differently as it sends me into a cold sweat just thinking about it! The relationship between her and her best friends was wonderful and so endearing.
This book messed about with my emotions having me laughing at one point and crying the next. It is a heart-warming story full of friendship, families, love and loss. I did enjoy the story and the friendship and family theme did leave me with a warm glow as I was reading it. The sadder parts around losing Maggie did hit home slightly and reminded me of people that I had lost and how I dealt with it. I do think this author has a definite flair of taking difficult topics and turning them into something a little more light hearted that you can have a connection with. A very enjoyable read and I hope there’ll be another book to carry on the ladies’ story!
I didn’t realise at first that this was a follow on from I Will Survive, the thing that attracted me to the book initially was the beautiful cover! When I realised that I had met these characters before, I reread my review from the previous book just to give me a reminder of who they were. By doing that I remembered how much I had enjoyed that book and the characters, so I knew I was going to enjoy this book also.
I loved all of the three women in different ways, but the one I could definitely relate to more was Alison. I could see so much of myself in her, especially in her organisational abilities!! I have a bit of a thing for stationery, lists and plans and can’t think of anything better than to have sticky labels over everything and that everything should be in its right place and perfectly co-ordinated!! So did Alison, and I could totally get how she was feeling when she wanted to behave more spontaneously and do things differently as it sends me into a cold sweat just thinking about it! The relationship between her and her best friends was wonderful and so endearing.
This book messed about with my emotions having me laughing at one point and crying the next. It is a heart-warming story full of friendship, families, love and loss. I did enjoy the story and the friendship and family theme did leave me with a warm glow as I was reading it. The sadder parts around losing Maggie did hit home slightly and reminded me of people that I had lost and how I dealt with it. I do think this author has a definite flair of taking difficult topics and turning them into something a little more light hearted that you can have a connection with. A very enjoyable read and I hope there’ll be another book to carry on the ladies’ story!
January 15, 2019
This book isn’t listed as a series here on Goodreads (at least not while I was reading the ARC). But you notice pretty quickly that the characters have a background story that’s left a bit fuzzy here. The fact that they referenced how they used to consider Alison a bit scary made me question if another book came first.
So, the first book was I Will Survive. I think it would be easier to understand the dynamics of the characters’ relationship if you read that first. I didn’t, so I’m just guessing.
In this story, Alison has just lost her mother-in-law. She makes a few New Years resolutions and her friends Frankie and Kate want to be encouraging so they join in.
Alison wants to be healthier overall, to eat more vegetables as a family and to exercise more.
Kate is pregnant for the third time. She has decided to try to be more relaxed and have a zen pregnancy.
Frankie wants to hold onto a job and she also acknowledges that she needs to find a way to let her son’s father be a part of his life.
They have decided to call their resolutions “ the happiness project”.
All of their goals are jeopardized by outside forces.
Alison’s husband and son are not on board with all the vegetarian food. And her husband seems to think her goal is a bit predictable and boring. He feels that if she wants to honor his mother’s memory, she should try something new.
Kate’s zen pregnancy is complicated by a friend who is pregnant for the first time and wants to do everything perfectly.
Frankie’s goal is complicated by the fact that her coworker is a leach.
I liked some characters more than others. Kate’s pregnant friend was beyond irritating and Alison’s husband got on my nerves. He seemed condescending and unaware of his wife’s efforts of dealing with their loss.
I wouldn’t call this a funny story per se. But it is a story showing a unique friendship and the best ways that change us. As different as these women are, they all respect the things that make them different from each other.
I got to read an early ebook edition from NetGalley. Thanks!
So, the first book was I Will Survive. I think it would be easier to understand the dynamics of the characters’ relationship if you read that first. I didn’t, so I’m just guessing.
In this story, Alison has just lost her mother-in-law. She makes a few New Years resolutions and her friends Frankie and Kate want to be encouraging so they join in.
Alison wants to be healthier overall, to eat more vegetables as a family and to exercise more.
Kate is pregnant for the third time. She has decided to try to be more relaxed and have a zen pregnancy.
Frankie wants to hold onto a job and she also acknowledges that she needs to find a way to let her son’s father be a part of his life.
They have decided to call their resolutions “ the happiness project”.
All of their goals are jeopardized by outside forces.
Alison’s husband and son are not on board with all the vegetarian food. And her husband seems to think her goal is a bit predictable and boring. He feels that if she wants to honor his mother’s memory, she should try something new.
Kate’s zen pregnancy is complicated by a friend who is pregnant for the first time and wants to do everything perfectly.
Frankie’s goal is complicated by the fact that her coworker is a leach.
I liked some characters more than others. Kate’s pregnant friend was beyond irritating and Alison’s husband got on my nerves. He seemed condescending and unaware of his wife’s efforts of dealing with their loss.
I wouldn’t call this a funny story per se. But it is a story showing a unique friendship and the best ways that change us. As different as these women are, they all respect the things that make them different from each other.
I got to read an early ebook edition from NetGalley. Thanks!
January 11, 2019
3.5 stars.
I joined netgalley in 2009, and then proceeded to do nothing for ten years. Last Monday, I finally decided to dig up my login information and see if I can start using it. The Happiness Project was the first book that accepted me so I decided it had to be the first one I read.
And I am glad I did.
Apparently this is not the first book, so the author jumps right into the story without giving too much of a background on each of the characters. This didn't bother me at all, though I will say by the end of the story I still couldn't really tell you much about the physical characteristics of any character except that one of them is pretty petite. This, too, wasn't a huge problem for me. I did feel like I got to know each of the characters as a "person" and they felt uniquely different from each other, and reasonably three-dimensional to me. They were flawed, interesting, thoughtful characters.
The book was a fun and quick read. When I was reading it, I liked getting lost in their stories and when I wasn't reading it, I found myself looking forward to reading more. While there were some learning moments for each character, this wasn't a story of major growth.
When they first make the "Happiness Project" I thought it would end up being that they would each learn something about what happiness meant for them and how their project/goal would shift with the learning etc. but it wasn't a book like that. It was light, fun and one of those books that come together beautifully at the end, leaving you smiling and happy.
If you're looking for a deep, literary book that will make you learn about new cultures, or appreciate complex characters, I wouldn't recommend you pick this one. But if you want to have fun, enjoy a good story with characters that are real and experience real-life situations, especially around marriage and motherhood, I think this is a fantastic pick.
I gave it a 3.5 stars because while I would have liked a bit more depth, I really enjoyed the story and had fun the whole time I read it.
I joined netgalley in 2009, and then proceeded to do nothing for ten years. Last Monday, I finally decided to dig up my login information and see if I can start using it. The Happiness Project was the first book that accepted me so I decided it had to be the first one I read.
And I am glad I did.
Apparently this is not the first book, so the author jumps right into the story without giving too much of a background on each of the characters. This didn't bother me at all, though I will say by the end of the story I still couldn't really tell you much about the physical characteristics of any character except that one of them is pretty petite. This, too, wasn't a huge problem for me. I did feel like I got to know each of the characters as a "person" and they felt uniquely different from each other, and reasonably three-dimensional to me. They were flawed, interesting, thoughtful characters.
The book was a fun and quick read. When I was reading it, I liked getting lost in their stories and when I wasn't reading it, I found myself looking forward to reading more. While there were some learning moments for each character, this wasn't a story of major growth.
When they first make the "Happiness Project" I thought it would end up being that they would each learn something about what happiness meant for them and how their project/goal would shift with the learning etc. but it wasn't a book like that. It was light, fun and one of those books that come together beautifully at the end, leaving you smiling and happy.
If you're looking for a deep, literary book that will make you learn about new cultures, or appreciate complex characters, I wouldn't recommend you pick this one. But if you want to have fun, enjoy a good story with characters that are real and experience real-life situations, especially around marriage and motherhood, I think this is a fantastic pick.
I gave it a 3.5 stars because while I would have liked a bit more depth, I really enjoyed the story and had fun the whole time I read it.
February 12, 2019
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
We are back with Frankie, Alison and Kate for another relatable tale about motherhood and regaining your confidence after a baby. 'The Happiness Project' is the second book in the series and, if you haven't read the first book, 'I Will Survive', don't worry too much as each one can be read as a stand-alone.
Out of the two books I think this one has to be my favourite because the vibe was more relaxed and less forced. I will admit that I wasn't too sure of the storyline to begin with as I couldn't work out what was happening in amongst the whinging between characters, however as the story progressed the main characters seemed to relax a bit more and I found myself giggling at the one liners more often than not.
It was great to see a different side to Alison, especially as she was thought of as the 'up her own backside' one who was 'practically perfect in every way'. Of course that wasn't the case as she was just organised and thought a lot about what people thought of her and her choices.
All in all, 'The Happiness Project' left me with a big smile on my face. The way in which certain characters came together at the end just made me feel as though I was on a cloud. Sometimes, even though you may be annoyed at something someone has done or what they've said, you end up realising that being the bigger person is more advantageous to your own mental health. I thought the way in which Kate stood up for her choices whilst pregnant (finally) was brilliant and it just highlighted how different everyone is, which of course isn't bad at all.
An uplifting, sitting on a cloud read which made me giggle many times.
We are back with Frankie, Alison and Kate for another relatable tale about motherhood and regaining your confidence after a baby. 'The Happiness Project' is the second book in the series and, if you haven't read the first book, 'I Will Survive', don't worry too much as each one can be read as a stand-alone.
Out of the two books I think this one has to be my favourite because the vibe was more relaxed and less forced. I will admit that I wasn't too sure of the storyline to begin with as I couldn't work out what was happening in amongst the whinging between characters, however as the story progressed the main characters seemed to relax a bit more and I found myself giggling at the one liners more often than not.
It was great to see a different side to Alison, especially as she was thought of as the 'up her own backside' one who was 'practically perfect in every way'. Of course that wasn't the case as she was just organised and thought a lot about what people thought of her and her choices.
All in all, 'The Happiness Project' left me with a big smile on my face. The way in which certain characters came together at the end just made me feel as though I was on a cloud. Sometimes, even though you may be annoyed at something someone has done or what they've said, you end up realising that being the bigger person is more advantageous to your own mental health. I thought the way in which Kate stood up for her choices whilst pregnant (finally) was brilliant and it just highlighted how different everyone is, which of course isn't bad at all.
An uplifting, sitting on a cloud read which made me giggle many times.
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