What do you think?
Rate this book
Good Good Loving
Ellen's beloved, beautiful, complicated family are gathered around her hospital bed as she prepares to slip away, and boy, is she ready. You'd think she could finally get some peace and quiet, but instead her children have chosen now of all times to have a never-ending discussion about her failings. Every single tiny thing they think she's done wrong over the years - and the one big thing too. After all the sacrifices Ellen has made for every last ungrateful one of them, they still take their father's side. If only they knew the whole story.
Full of big personalities, big mistakes, burning love and quiet heartbreak, Good Good Loving moves backwards in time through some of the most dramatic turning points in the life of Ellen and her family. Their story is as heartrending as it is joyous.
Full of big personalities, big mistakes, burning love and quiet heartbreak, Good Good Loving moves backwards in time through some of the most dramatic turning points in the life of Ellen and her family. Their story is as heartrending as it is joyous.
- GenresContemporaryFiction
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2026
6 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.25 ⭐️
“No one knew better than Ellen how difficult it could be to get your man to keep the zip of his pants up.”
This story is beautifully layered, showing quiet resilience and understated power.
We meet Ellen on her deathbed, lying in hospital surrounded by a family who decide that now is the perfect time to air out all her supposed failings. From there, the narrative moves backwards through time, unraveling the events that shaped this family and brought them to this moment.
Through the viewpoints of Ellen’s children and grandchildren, we see the intricacies of their dynamics and how the family structure came to be.
I loved how each chapter took us further back in time, slowly building a fuller picture. Her move from Montserrat to the UK added even more depth, highlighting themes of migration, sacrifice and belonging.
But Clyde? Straight in the 🗑️🗑️ immediately. The way the children lowkey sided with him and resented Ellen honestly broke my heart, especially when he was utterly despicable!!! Ellen is a better woman than me because I would have LEFT that man without hesitation.
A compelling and thoughtful story about family, legacy, sacrifice, compromise and betrayal.
“No one knew better than Ellen how difficult it could be to get your man to keep the zip of his pants up.”
This story is beautifully layered, showing quiet resilience and understated power.
We meet Ellen on her deathbed, lying in hospital surrounded by a family who decide that now is the perfect time to air out all her supposed failings. From there, the narrative moves backwards through time, unraveling the events that shaped this family and brought them to this moment.
Through the viewpoints of Ellen’s children and grandchildren, we see the intricacies of their dynamics and how the family structure came to be.
I loved how each chapter took us further back in time, slowly building a fuller picture. Her move from Montserrat to the UK added even more depth, highlighting themes of migration, sacrifice and belonging.
But Clyde? Straight in the 🗑️🗑️ immediately. The way the children lowkey sided with him and resented Ellen honestly broke my heart, especially when he was utterly despicable!!! Ellen is a better woman than me because I would have LEFT that man without hesitation.
A compelling and thoughtful story about family, legacy, sacrifice, compromise and betrayal.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The book was brilliant and relatable, especially for those who have shared significant life events with just one other person - in this instance, a spouse.
"the fact that Clyde had never been faithful to her. Ever. To be fair, she had never asked him to be..."
Certain parts of the narrative, including the above, stayed with me: Clyde's presumptuousness and CJ's demands of his mother when Clyde required care.
I also experienced a lot of frustration with the midwife's actions.
Nevertheless, my predominant feeling is one of admiration for Ellen. She exemplifies an excellent role model for all women, conducting herself with grace throughout the story. She raises another woman's child and steadfastly upholds her convictions, even when her children and grandchildren attempt to influence her decisions regarding Clyde's care. We shall overlook her single indiscretion 🤫 - but seriously, who can blame her 🤷🏻♀️.
I look forward to reading more works by Yvvette Edwards. Thanks, NetGalley, for the advance copy.
"the fact that Clyde had never been faithful to her. Ever. To be fair, she had never asked him to be..."
Certain parts of the narrative, including the above, stayed with me: Clyde's presumptuousness and CJ's demands of his mother when Clyde required care.
I also experienced a lot of frustration with the midwife's actions.
Nevertheless, my predominant feeling is one of admiration for Ellen. She exemplifies an excellent role model for all women, conducting herself with grace throughout the story. She raises another woman's child and steadfastly upholds her convictions, even when her children and grandchildren attempt to influence her decisions regarding Clyde's care. We shall overlook her single indiscretion 🤫 - but seriously, who can blame her 🤷🏻♀️.
I look forward to reading more works by Yvvette Edwards. Thanks, NetGalley, for the advance copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
2.75 ⭐
This story begins with Ellen on her death bed listening to her family speak about all of the things she has done wrong for them. This was one of the best parts of the books and it's such a shame we didn't go and learn anything more throughout.
I enjoyed some sections of this story more than others but in the end I just felt sad for Ellen she has done so much for her family only for each of them to hurt or betray her.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy of this book.
This story begins with Ellen on her death bed listening to her family speak about all of the things she has done wrong for them. This was one of the best parts of the books and it's such a shame we didn't go and learn anything more throughout.
I enjoyed some sections of this story more than others but in the end I just felt sad for Ellen she has done so much for her family only for each of them to hurt or betray her.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This book begins with Ellen on her deathbed, surrounded by her children, who have always taken their father’s side. They don’t know she can hear them whilst they discuss how they think she failed as a wife and mother.
Starting from the present day, we move backwards through Ellen’s life. We see her journey from Montserrat to the UK, her tumultuous marriage to Clyde, her strained relationship with her mother, the guilt and grief she has carried through the years.
Ellen spent her life burying her traumas and avoiding her emotions but on her deathbed, there’s nowhere to hide. She unpacks specific moments in her life, revisiting them from different angles, circling the same events she never fully processed.
With so many characters and shifting perspectives, this structure was bit disorienting at times, but this feels deliberate, mirroring Ellen’s fragmented thought process and the non-linear way that memory works.
Every chapter brought plot twist after plot twist. Her family is soooo chaotic in a way that felt almost inherited. Each of her children and grandchildren see her through a different lens, and these lenses tint the sacrifices she made as an immigrant mother according to who they needed her to be.
At the centre of all the drama is her husband Clyde 🤬Most of the Ellen’s ruminations connect back to him, so the story is largely about Ellen in relation to Clyde defined by his betrayals, rather than Ellen in her own right, which is unfortunately the reality for many women in useless marriages.
But back to my opening scene (my fave!) with everyone gathered around her bed. I wish we returned to this setting more often, maybe alternating between the hospital room and the flashback chapters.
This novel would make a great book club pick. There’s a lot to discuss, and even more I can’t say without spoilers 🫢
This book begins with Ellen on her deathbed, surrounded by her children, who have always taken their father’s side. They don’t know she can hear them whilst they discuss how they think she failed as a wife and mother.
Starting from the present day, we move backwards through Ellen’s life. We see her journey from Montserrat to the UK, her tumultuous marriage to Clyde, her strained relationship with her mother, the guilt and grief she has carried through the years.
Ellen spent her life burying her traumas and avoiding her emotions but on her deathbed, there’s nowhere to hide. She unpacks specific moments in her life, revisiting them from different angles, circling the same events she never fully processed.
With so many characters and shifting perspectives, this structure was bit disorienting at times, but this feels deliberate, mirroring Ellen’s fragmented thought process and the non-linear way that memory works.
Every chapter brought plot twist after plot twist. Her family is soooo chaotic in a way that felt almost inherited. Each of her children and grandchildren see her through a different lens, and these lenses tint the sacrifices she made as an immigrant mother according to who they needed her to be.
At the centre of all the drama is her husband Clyde 🤬Most of the Ellen’s ruminations connect back to him, so the story is largely about Ellen in relation to Clyde defined by his betrayals, rather than Ellen in her own right, which is unfortunately the reality for many women in useless marriages.
But back to my opening scene (my fave!) with everyone gathered around her bed. I wish we returned to this setting more often, maybe alternating between the hospital room and the flashback chapters.
This novel would make a great book club pick. There’s a lot to discuss, and even more I can’t say without spoilers 🫢
February 23, 2026
The book follows Ellen, starting at her death bed, moving through her life and ending just before her funeral. It is quite twisted from a time perspective which I really enjoyed. The book is such a rich read and reminds me so my own chaotic Welsh family, I had no problems with the names, as like many families there are some similarities. It is told from some of her families perspective as well. Racism and sexism run through out the book and both are managed well throughout. I do not feel you need to have experienced either to relate to the book. I think even men who struggle with being faithful will enjoy the book, although I’m not sure they deserve the kindness the book shows them. Although there are consequences and I do appreciate Ellen is complicit in her life experiences and has power and I feel so proud of her. Her kindness to others reminds me of women who constantly put others first. There is a point where she changes and I so emphasise with that process. There are lots of examples where she too is cruel and I want to tell her off and yet the book shows us how that harshness comes about. The gentleness shown towards men and boys is something I think is present in so many cultures and the book doesn’t shy away from this double standard or even preference towards specific children.
Clyde……. Ellen’s husband reminded me of my ex. Enough said.
I took my time deciding whether to read this book, I wasn’t sure if it was aimed at me and whether the theme of death would be too much, so close to my Father’s death. I think death was handled so very well by the author.
I recently read the new Elizabeth Strout book and this feels similar in its depiction of characters and not shying away from the darkness of humans as well as joy. Also both authors write so sympathetically without demonising anyone, well maybe apart from Clyde.
I did struggle a bit with a traumatic birth story but I think if you have had a similar experience you might be able to scan through the chapter, as I did, and then re read when you know the outcome. I am glad I was able to read it through properly on the second go and hopefully most people will be able to.
There is a child death that is foreshadowed from the first chapter that is handled very well.
The reflection of the power of sex on her death bed feels so ….alive. I laughed out loud so early on in this book and although there was sad parts I generally found it a joyful book.
Actually the beginning being her death bed scene was very positive and felt very happy.
The family and the writing feel so vibrant, real and so multi dimensional. I am so hopeful to read more from this author and hope lots of people get to read more from them.
I loved this quote so much
“Leah who had never obeyed, never known her place and in response to almost any request, would ask why? “
I’ve never felt more seen, I spent my life refusing to stop asking why and getting into constant problems.
At the end of the book there is more information and I think I want to re read the book again with all the information and I think it is a book that would benefit from a second read.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this advanced copy for free, this is all my own rambling, honest and personal opinion.
Clyde……. Ellen’s husband reminded me of my ex. Enough said.
I took my time deciding whether to read this book, I wasn’t sure if it was aimed at me and whether the theme of death would be too much, so close to my Father’s death. I think death was handled so very well by the author.
I recently read the new Elizabeth Strout book and this feels similar in its depiction of characters and not shying away from the darkness of humans as well as joy. Also both authors write so sympathetically without demonising anyone, well maybe apart from Clyde.
I did struggle a bit with a traumatic birth story but I think if you have had a similar experience you might be able to scan through the chapter, as I did, and then re read when you know the outcome. I am glad I was able to read it through properly on the second go and hopefully most people will be able to.
There is a child death that is foreshadowed from the first chapter that is handled very well.
The reflection of the power of sex on her death bed feels so ….alive. I laughed out loud so early on in this book and although there was sad parts I generally found it a joyful book.
Actually the beginning being her death bed scene was very positive and felt very happy.
The family and the writing feel so vibrant, real and so multi dimensional. I am so hopeful to read more from this author and hope lots of people get to read more from them.
I loved this quote so much
“Leah who had never obeyed, never known her place and in response to almost any request, would ask why? “
I’ve never felt more seen, I spent my life refusing to stop asking why and getting into constant problems.
At the end of the book there is more information and I think I want to re read the book again with all the information and I think it is a book that would benefit from a second read.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this advanced copy for free, this is all my own rambling, honest and personal opinion.
March 16, 2026
The Bottom Line: A deceptive opening that moves from humour to one of the most touching stories I have read recently. It is an absorbing look at a Caribbean family in the UK and the weight of the truths we don't talk about. I originally received the ARC via NetGalley, but I have since bought a physical copy from Waterstones because the quality of the storytelling is that high.
I really enjoyed this book. It begins with Ellen in a hospital bed in her final moments, and weirdly, the opening feels quite light. Instead of a peaceful passing with mournful goodbyes, she can hear her children, friends, and family recounting all her failures. Despite all the sacrifices she feels she has made, her last moments are spent overhearing her wrongdoings. The novel then moves back in time to some of her most pivotal turning points.
The book touches on a part of history I haven’t heard many narratives on: the children of the Windrush generation, and the reality of being brought up without your parents before moving to a foreign country to reunite with them. The cast of characters truly felt like three generations of a Caribbean family in the UK. The dialogue and attitudes were very relatable for me, feeling like a series of realistic narrative portraits of the culture. All the family relationships, microaggressions, and grudges felt so real.
I found Ellen deeply endearing, particularly her reflections on her marriage and feeling subordinate to her husband, as if she wasn’t worthy of expecting more. That experience isn't hers alone; the novel captures the contrast between the oldest daughters, raised with the discipline expected of West Indian daughters, versus the freedoms given to the Black British son, CJ. Seeing that gender divide play out across the family history felt incredibly authentic.
This story made me reflect on how, despite our good intentions, our actions can be perceived negatively by others, even those closest to us. It highlights how all the little miscommunications can build up walls in relationships over time. While there were some good lessons in the story, there was also interesting drama. Nothing felt too predictable and I was hanging onto every word so I could see the bigger picture.
My only critique is that the majority of the male characters were, frankly, wotless. While there was more diversity with the female characters, the portrayal of the men felt like it could potentially feed into negative stereotypes of the Caribbean community.
Final Thought
I was really impressed by this book; it is emotional, intriguing, and culturally aware all at the same time. It has left a lasting impression on me and is a story that definitely deserves the space to be discussed.
Thank you to Little, Brown Book Group UK for providing an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own and shared honestly
I really enjoyed this book. It begins with Ellen in a hospital bed in her final moments, and weirdly, the opening feels quite light. Instead of a peaceful passing with mournful goodbyes, she can hear her children, friends, and family recounting all her failures. Despite all the sacrifices she feels she has made, her last moments are spent overhearing her wrongdoings. The novel then moves back in time to some of her most pivotal turning points.
The book touches on a part of history I haven’t heard many narratives on: the children of the Windrush generation, and the reality of being brought up without your parents before moving to a foreign country to reunite with them. The cast of characters truly felt like three generations of a Caribbean family in the UK. The dialogue and attitudes were very relatable for me, feeling like a series of realistic narrative portraits of the culture. All the family relationships, microaggressions, and grudges felt so real.
I found Ellen deeply endearing, particularly her reflections on her marriage and feeling subordinate to her husband, as if she wasn’t worthy of expecting more. That experience isn't hers alone; the novel captures the contrast between the oldest daughters, raised with the discipline expected of West Indian daughters, versus the freedoms given to the Black British son, CJ. Seeing that gender divide play out across the family history felt incredibly authentic.
This story made me reflect on how, despite our good intentions, our actions can be perceived negatively by others, even those closest to us. It highlights how all the little miscommunications can build up walls in relationships over time. While there were some good lessons in the story, there was also interesting drama. Nothing felt too predictable and I was hanging onto every word so I could see the bigger picture.
My only critique is that the majority of the male characters were, frankly, wotless. While there was more diversity with the female characters, the portrayal of the men felt like it could potentially feed into negative stereotypes of the Caribbean community.
Final Thought
I was really impressed by this book; it is emotional, intriguing, and culturally aware all at the same time. It has left a lasting impression on me and is a story that definitely deserves the space to be discussed.
Thank you to Little, Brown Book Group UK for providing an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own and shared honestly
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a fabulous read. I never tired of hearing Ellen’s stories. We start out at Ellen’s death bed with all her family around her. As she drifts in and out of consciousness she listens to their chatter and as it says in the description not everything she hears is complimentary. Her family think she can’t hear them, they’re wrong.
Ellen is the matriarch of the family, married to Clyde she came to England from Montserrat in the Caribbean in search of a better life. She left her two young daughters back in the Caribbean and after meeting and marrying Clyde saved and saved until she could bring her two daughters to England to join them. It follows the family’s ups and downs of domestic life through generations of the family across time from Ellen down to her great grandchildren.
Ellen put up with a lot through her life. She was mostly happy but only because she managed very well to turn a blind eye to her husband’s philandering ways. Clyde really was insufferable, not only sleeping with many women, he spent much of his time and their money in pubs but he always came back home and was quite an affable character.
On the whole its a lighthearted book, fun to read and shows us the culture and beliefs of West Indian immigrants to the UK. It illustrates the gradual erosion of that culture with each upcoming generation as they lose some of the values from a time in Ellen’s past. There are however, some quite poignant moments and events along the way as Ellen becomes something of a martyr to Clyde’s thoughtless and errant ways.
Whilst I enjoyed the story very much, with an excellent narrative, I’m not so sure about the way in which it was written. Starting the story at the end of Ellen’s life and working backwards didn’t really sit well with me. It felt confusing at times. Perhaps if it was a paper book that I could easily flick back through chapters to remind me of things that had happened in the future as it were, it might have made it a bit easier to recall things but in an e-book that isn’t so easily done. Things that happened and were said near to the beginning of the book, held relevance in the past but by the time I got half way through I’d forgotten the detail. I would have much preferred the book to have started at the beginning and gone through her life to the end and can’t quite understand why it was written this way. It lost a star for that reason in what would otherwise have been a five star read for me. There is one event that really was unforgiveable as far as Clyde’s actions were concerned, yet we heard little about Ellen’s feelings on that subject. It felt like what would have been a devastating part of her life was just missing.
I did enjoy it though, and one day it would merit a re-read perhaps? Starting at the end of the book and reading my way backwards through the chapters.
Ellen is the matriarch of the family, married to Clyde she came to England from Montserrat in the Caribbean in search of a better life. She left her two young daughters back in the Caribbean and after meeting and marrying Clyde saved and saved until she could bring her two daughters to England to join them. It follows the family’s ups and downs of domestic life through generations of the family across time from Ellen down to her great grandchildren.
Ellen put up with a lot through her life. She was mostly happy but only because she managed very well to turn a blind eye to her husband’s philandering ways. Clyde really was insufferable, not only sleeping with many women, he spent much of his time and their money in pubs but he always came back home and was quite an affable character.
On the whole its a lighthearted book, fun to read and shows us the culture and beliefs of West Indian immigrants to the UK. It illustrates the gradual erosion of that culture with each upcoming generation as they lose some of the values from a time in Ellen’s past. There are however, some quite poignant moments and events along the way as Ellen becomes something of a martyr to Clyde’s thoughtless and errant ways.
Whilst I enjoyed the story very much, with an excellent narrative, I’m not so sure about the way in which it was written. Starting the story at the end of Ellen’s life and working backwards didn’t really sit well with me. It felt confusing at times. Perhaps if it was a paper book that I could easily flick back through chapters to remind me of things that had happened in the future as it were, it might have made it a bit easier to recall things but in an e-book that isn’t so easily done. Things that happened and were said near to the beginning of the book, held relevance in the past but by the time I got half way through I’d forgotten the detail. I would have much preferred the book to have started at the beginning and gone through her life to the end and can’t quite understand why it was written this way. It lost a star for that reason in what would otherwise have been a five star read for me. There is one event that really was unforgiveable as far as Clyde’s actions were concerned, yet we heard little about Ellen’s feelings on that subject. It felt like what would have been a devastating part of her life was just missing.
I did enjoy it though, and one day it would merit a re-read perhaps? Starting at the end of the book and reading my way backwards through the chapters.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a joy to read!
This story, apart from the initial deathbed scene, is told backwards so you know what has happened before you find out the hows or whys. That said, there were two occasions when we didn’t know the real how or why, these being when the philandering Clyde left her, . The final time this happened, it would have been good to have had this explored more, because it was such a treacherous thing to have happened, even after all his other affairs and one night stands. The ultimate betrayal, you might say.
Though there is a lot about the impact on children left behind when their parents go away to earn money, before being reunited with them, as I write this review, I realise this story is more about the impact of Clyde’s womanising on his whole family instead; how his children collude with him against Ellen, how Ellen loses friends and family through it etc. What an awful man he is!
If you decide to read this, and I sincerely hope you do, I suggest you write down a family tree as there are so many people mentioned, some with similar names such as Clyde and Clay (whom I must admit I initially thought were the same person, just a publishing typo), it was very confusing initially. Or try and make sense of my notes below in the first spoiler!
Thoroughly recommended if you like a good story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
This story, apart from the initial deathbed scene, is told backwards so you know what has happened before you find out the hows or whys. That said, there were two occasions when we didn’t know the real how or why, these being when the philandering Clyde left her, . The final time this happened, it would have been good to have had this explored more, because it was such a treacherous thing to have happened, even after all his other affairs and one night stands. The ultimate betrayal, you might say.
Though there is a lot about the impact on children left behind when their parents go away to earn money, before being reunited with them, as I write this review, I realise this story is more about the impact of Clyde’s womanising on his whole family instead; how his children collude with him against Ellen, how Ellen loses friends and family through it etc. What an awful man he is!
If you decide to read this, and I sincerely hope you do, I suggest you write down a family tree as there are so many people mentioned, some with similar names such as Clyde and Clay (whom I must admit I initially thought were the same person, just a publishing typo), it was very confusing initially. Or try and make sense of my notes below in the first spoiler!
Thoroughly recommended if you like a good story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Good good loving by Yvette Edwards, opens with our protagonist Ellen in a hospital on her deathbed surrounded by her family in what I presume to be a comatose state. Her children talk about her, freely amongst themselves and she can hear everything being discussed and they do have a lot to say, not always flattering. Starting from present day, the novel moves backwards in time through Ellen’s life from her upbringing in Monteserrat to meeting her husband Clyde and their journey to England and the 5 kids they raised during their time together.
The novel presents an array of characters, but Ellen is clearly the focal point. She felt remote, distant, almost impenetrable until the very end, which I suspect was deliberate. As a reader, I experienced her the same way the other characters did: standoffish, difficult to understand, and emotionally guarded.
However, while that narrative choice may have been intentional, it didn’t quite work for me. I struggled to form an emotional connection with her. I think part of this comes down to the writing style , at times clumsy and long-winded, with excessive inner dialogue that didn’t always move the story forward. Several sections could have done with firmer editing: trimming in some areas and expanding in others.
The multiple POVs occasionally became overwhelming and disorienting at times, and the setting lacked texture. Despite being set in London, I never truly felt immersed there.
That said, the plot itself was interesting and I liked the structure ( the movement back in time) which added an interesting layer and kept things structurally fresh. The Dumpling and Cassius revelation genuinely surprised me and was one of the book’s stronger moments and I wish there’d been more moments like that.
Some character motivations felt underdeveloped. Why did Clyde marry Ellen? Was it purely about Ellen’s inheritance which was slightly hinted at. If Ellen stayed because she felt it was the best she could get, what truly kept Clyde invested? Those emotional gaps made certain choices difficult to fully believe.
Overall, this was an okay read for me that didn’t quite land for me personally.
Thanks to littlebrownbook for the ARC via netgalley. As always this is an honest review.
The novel presents an array of characters, but Ellen is clearly the focal point. She felt remote, distant, almost impenetrable until the very end, which I suspect was deliberate. As a reader, I experienced her the same way the other characters did: standoffish, difficult to understand, and emotionally guarded.
However, while that narrative choice may have been intentional, it didn’t quite work for me. I struggled to form an emotional connection with her. I think part of this comes down to the writing style , at times clumsy and long-winded, with excessive inner dialogue that didn’t always move the story forward. Several sections could have done with firmer editing: trimming in some areas and expanding in others.
The multiple POVs occasionally became overwhelming and disorienting at times, and the setting lacked texture. Despite being set in London, I never truly felt immersed there.
That said, the plot itself was interesting and I liked the structure ( the movement back in time) which added an interesting layer and kept things structurally fresh. The Dumpling and Cassius revelation genuinely surprised me and was one of the book’s stronger moments and I wish there’d been more moments like that.
Some character motivations felt underdeveloped. Why did Clyde marry Ellen? Was it purely about Ellen’s inheritance which was slightly hinted at. If Ellen stayed because she felt it was the best she could get, what truly kept Clyde invested? Those emotional gaps made certain choices difficult to fully believe.
Overall, this was an okay read for me that didn’t quite land for me personally.
Thanks to littlebrownbook for the ARC via netgalley. As always this is an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh what a wonderful book. Good Good Loving is funny, touching, and quietly subversive — a novel that lets its secrets slip out in small bursts of illumination, marking the way home. Ellen is dying. Long relocated from Caribbean Montserrat to England, she lies motionless in her hospital bed, able only to hear her children united in disappointment and anger towards her, particularly over the way she treated their father, her husband, Clyde. Wounded by their ingratitude, she clings to memory to sustain her final hours.
After her death, the novel moves backwards through time, dropping into Ellen’s life at key moments and revealing the struggles and history that shape her. Clyde is a ladies’ man: charming, handsome, and never discreet. Ellen knew exactly what he was like when she married him, took pride in having such a desirable husband, and that whatever his transgressions, he always came home to her. Ground down by her mother, she never expected to be loved and, despite Clyde’s egregious behaviour, refuses to see herself as a victim.
Edwards captures the press of family life — rivalries, loyalties, secrets, and lies — with real energy. The house parties glow, the bust-ups crackle, and the novel offers a rich evocation of the immigrant experience: casual and institutional racism, the solace of a community of faces like your own, culture shock, and the long damage done by splintered families.
Gradually, we come to understand the hard work Ellen has invested in holding the family together despite Clyde’s disappearances and dalliances, and how this effort shaped her children’s view of her as a joyless lawgiver.
Though the material could be grim, Edwards brings vibrancy to every episode, blending humour, tragedy, and drama with a persuasive touch.
Ending a novel that moves backwards in time with such heartwarming, joyous, catharsis takes a rare storytelling gift.
Fantastic.
After her death, the novel moves backwards through time, dropping into Ellen’s life at key moments and revealing the struggles and history that shape her. Clyde is a ladies’ man: charming, handsome, and never discreet. Ellen knew exactly what he was like when she married him, took pride in having such a desirable husband, and that whatever his transgressions, he always came home to her. Ground down by her mother, she never expected to be loved and, despite Clyde’s egregious behaviour, refuses to see herself as a victim.
Edwards captures the press of family life — rivalries, loyalties, secrets, and lies — with real energy. The house parties glow, the bust-ups crackle, and the novel offers a rich evocation of the immigrant experience: casual and institutional racism, the solace of a community of faces like your own, culture shock, and the long damage done by splintered families.
Gradually, we come to understand the hard work Ellen has invested in holding the family together despite Clyde’s disappearances and dalliances, and how this effort shaped her children’s view of her as a joyless lawgiver.
Though the material could be grim, Edwards brings vibrancy to every episode, blending humour, tragedy, and drama with a persuasive touch.
Ending a novel that moves backwards in time with such heartwarming, joyous, catharsis takes a rare storytelling gift.
Fantastic.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The first page had me captivated. The rest stole my heart. Ellen lies dying in her hospital bed, surrounded by children, grandchildren and Wilhemina, a firm friend who wails about how sorry she is. The peaceful death Ellen thought she would have is anything but. On the contrary, everyone seems to have something to say.
The plot moves swiftly to the years leading up to her death. Through multiple perspectives we are introduced to a dysfunctional, but warm and authentic Caribbean family as they navigate their journey from economic immigrants to the present. Ellen’s voice is powerful, dropping patois dialect as she talks with her family. Her warm tones and no-nonsense attitude resonated with me. Some readers may see her as the ultimate doormat, but for me she was the glue that kept the home together. Regardless, it's fair to say there were tears by the end of this novel.
Yvvette Edwards addresses several issues, such as the racism and the disappointment experienced by many of the Windrush immigrants who often left their children back home until sufficient money was raised to send for them. Clyde, Ellen’s unfaithful husband Is an excellent representation of a man who believes that he is irresistible. For me he was a loveable rouge. Despite his appalling behaviour towards his wife and brother, I still warmed towards him.
I really can’t recommend this book enough. It has everything and the rich dialect transported me back to childhood and my own upbringing.
Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for ARC for the opportunity to read this ahead of publication. An absolute must read!
The plot moves swiftly to the years leading up to her death. Through multiple perspectives we are introduced to a dysfunctional, but warm and authentic Caribbean family as they navigate their journey from economic immigrants to the present. Ellen’s voice is powerful, dropping patois dialect as she talks with her family. Her warm tones and no-nonsense attitude resonated with me. Some readers may see her as the ultimate doormat, but for me she was the glue that kept the home together. Regardless, it's fair to say there were tears by the end of this novel.
Yvvette Edwards addresses several issues, such as the racism and the disappointment experienced by many of the Windrush immigrants who often left their children back home until sufficient money was raised to send for them. Clyde, Ellen’s unfaithful husband Is an excellent representation of a man who believes that he is irresistible. For me he was a loveable rouge. Despite his appalling behaviour towards his wife and brother, I still warmed towards him.
I really can’t recommend this book enough. It has everything and the rich dialect transported me back to childhood and my own upbringing.
Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for ARC for the opportunity to read this ahead of publication. An absolute must read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ellen is dying. In fact, she is on her deathbed. She is, in many ways, happy to go after a long life and while she cannot communicate with them, she has her family gathered round her and can hear them talking. Frustratingly for Ellen, her family have chosen her final hours and moments to discuss her failings as a mother, a wife and as a woman. They seem unaware of the sacrifices that Ellen has made for them. If only she could tell them. Over the course of the book, we find out the story of Ellen’s life going backwards to key moments and told from her perspective as well as the perspective of her husband, children and grandchildren. And we find out exactly what Ellen has had to sacrifice over the course of her life.
This is a beautiful, heartbreaking, funny book. It’s one that I’m sure most people can relate to as it delves into the complexities of family relationships and to the “what ifs” of life. I really loved the characters, especially that they felt so human - none of them were perfect but they all had their reasons for behaving in the way that they do. I also really liked the book starting at the end - not unique perhaps but not a way of storytelling that you come across that frequently. I am struggling to find much fault but I did feel like some of the more emotional moments didn’t hit home as much as they could have, perhaps because they had been alluded to a lot because of telling the story backwards. But I wouldn’t change the way the story was told, maybe just tweak some parts.
Anyway, I wouldn’t change definitely recommend this book. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a beautiful, heartbreaking, funny book. It’s one that I’m sure most people can relate to as it delves into the complexities of family relationships and to the “what ifs” of life. I really loved the characters, especially that they felt so human - none of them were perfect but they all had their reasons for behaving in the way that they do. I also really liked the book starting at the end - not unique perhaps but not a way of storytelling that you come across that frequently. I am struggling to find much fault but I did feel like some of the more emotional moments didn’t hit home as much as they could have, perhaps because they had been alluded to a lot because of telling the story backwards. But I wouldn’t change the way the story was told, maybe just tweak some parts.
Anyway, I wouldn’t change definitely recommend this book. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
March 20, 2026
I didn't like this.
All the characters are terrible people. Every single one of them. I found it hard to have anyone to root for. Not even Ellen herself.
Who decided that it was okay for the names to be CJ, Claudette, Clyde, Clay, Cassius and more... I could go on. How to tell anyone apart? Especially as everyone got one personality trait assigned to them and that was it. I struggled to tell who was who, and I chalk that down to the writing and name choices because I had no problem keeping up with the plethora of characters in War and Peace, for example.
Every man, husband or otherise, is a complete wasteman, or cheating, or misogynist, or laughs along to the joke (or worse, says nothing, looking at you Link?? Linus??) even if they're supposed to be the 'good' one. Where's our positive Black man rep? At least one? We want Black men reading or seeing themselves in books and then we severe them this, smh.
Every woman either lets a man walk all over her, or is conniving and cutting to another woman, or cheating, or selfish. There are two positive depictions of women in this and they get about one scene each between them. Sigh.
It's a very dialogue heavy book, and the setting isn't described at all. There was 0 character growth from anyone, which had me at a loss because I couldn't understand why any of them would do what they were doing. And I couldn't discern why it was told backwards? I liked vaguely liked the concept of this but it wasn't utilised in the storyline at all. The ending was just... an end.
All the characters are terrible people. Every single one of them. I found it hard to have anyone to root for. Not even Ellen herself.
Who decided that it was okay for the names to be CJ, Claudette, Clyde, Clay, Cassius and more... I could go on. How to tell anyone apart? Especially as everyone got one personality trait assigned to them and that was it. I struggled to tell who was who, and I chalk that down to the writing and name choices because I had no problem keeping up with the plethora of characters in War and Peace, for example.
Every man, husband or otherise, is a complete wasteman, or cheating, or misogynist, or laughs along to the joke (or worse, says nothing, looking at you Link?? Linus??) even if they're supposed to be the 'good' one. Where's our positive Black man rep? At least one? We want Black men reading or seeing themselves in books and then we severe them this, smh.
Every woman either lets a man walk all over her, or is conniving and cutting to another woman, or cheating, or selfish. There are two positive depictions of women in this and they get about one scene each between them. Sigh.
It's a very dialogue heavy book, and the setting isn't described at all. There was 0 character growth from anyone, which had me at a loss because I couldn't understand why any of them would do what they were doing. And I couldn't discern why it was told backwards? I liked vaguely liked the concept of this but it wasn't utilised in the storyline at all. The ending was just... an end.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Un-put-downable, widely entertaining, laugh out loud funny while being deeply moving, THIS IS HOW YOU WRITE A BOOK!!!!
The book opens with Ellen on her death bed surrounded by some of her children and grandchildren, though they don’t know, she can hear everything they are saying about her. You’d think after years of taking care of everyone Ellen would be able to leave this world in peace, but that is not the case. Ellen must now, on her death bed, sit through hearing all of what they think about her and her failings as a mother, wife and friend.
Good Good Loving is told backwards, in that we start at the present and go back into some of the most dramatic and pivotal moments of Ellen and her husband’s life, starting with Ellen meeting him in Montserrat and them moving to London with everything in-between. Yvette Edwards pens a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, filled with unforgettable characters and moments that will leave you laughing or feeling deeply hurt.
I know it is only January but this is my favourite read for 2026.
The book opens with Ellen on her death bed surrounded by some of her children and grandchildren, though they don’t know, she can hear everything they are saying about her. You’d think after years of taking care of everyone Ellen would be able to leave this world in peace, but that is not the case. Ellen must now, on her death bed, sit through hearing all of what they think about her and her failings as a mother, wife and friend.
Good Good Loving is told backwards, in that we start at the present and go back into some of the most dramatic and pivotal moments of Ellen and her husband’s life, starting with Ellen meeting him in Montserrat and them moving to London with everything in-between. Yvette Edwards pens a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, filled with unforgettable characters and moments that will leave you laughing or feeling deeply hurt.
I know it is only January but this is my favourite read for 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a great book!
The opening, where a family gathers and bickers around Ellen's deathbed. Whilst assuming she knows they are there, they talk as if she has already left the room but we are party to Ellen's comments about them all. Perfect rather random family stuff from unfamiliar characters.
The story then tracks backwards into her own interpretation of her life and who all these family members are. Family "sagas" are such a minefield but I loved this device. It is almost like having a longstanding friend during whose life you have witnessed and taken in the evolving backdrop of her family who rock up at her house regularly spilling all their emotional messiness.
This is beautifully constructed and written novel. Much is hard, painful and uncomfortable yet the spirit of humour rises from a long suffering matriarch. I really enjoyed how stories were revealed and how they were contained between deathbed and funeral.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #Virago for the opportunity to read and review
The opening, where a family gathers and bickers around Ellen's deathbed. Whilst assuming she knows they are there, they talk as if she has already left the room but we are party to Ellen's comments about them all. Perfect rather random family stuff from unfamiliar characters.
The story then tracks backwards into her own interpretation of her life and who all these family members are. Family "sagas" are such a minefield but I loved this device. It is almost like having a longstanding friend during whose life you have witnessed and taken in the evolving backdrop of her family who rock up at her house regularly spilling all their emotional messiness.
This is beautifully constructed and written novel. Much is hard, painful and uncomfortable yet the spirit of humour rises from a long suffering matriarch. I really enjoyed how stories were revealed and how they were contained between deathbed and funeral.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #Virago for the opportunity to read and review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the story of a family.
Complicated. Chaotic. Calamitous.
Sometimes hard to fathom and follow and keep track of who is who, and how they are related.
This family is spread across countries and unusually we learn their story in reverse, beginning at the end as Ellen lies on her deathbed. As her story unfolds, I, as a reader, wondered why she accepted her relationship with Clyde, which greatly affected all the other relationships in her life. Was she the ultimate doormat, or a very strong woman? Reading in reverse, it isn't until the end, which is almost the beginning of her story, that we learn the answer.
I would describe this story as profound, rather than enjoyable, but it certainly made an impression on me.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Complicated. Chaotic. Calamitous.
Sometimes hard to fathom and follow and keep track of who is who, and how they are related.
This family is spread across countries and unusually we learn their story in reverse, beginning at the end as Ellen lies on her deathbed. As her story unfolds, I, as a reader, wondered why she accepted her relationship with Clyde, which greatly affected all the other relationships in her life. Was she the ultimate doormat, or a very strong woman? Reading in reverse, it isn't until the end, which is almost the beginning of her story, that we learn the answer.
I would describe this story as profound, rather than enjoyable, but it certainly made an impression on me.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ellen is dying. Her family gather around, and though Ellen seems no longer to hear them, she does, and she hears what her family have to say about her and about her husband Clyde.
The novel drifts backwards in time from this, showing Ellen and her Clyde, and the stories of this family, going all the way back to Montserrat. We hear how experience shaped her, and how stepped into marriage knowing more than others felt she knew.
Good Good Loving is a beautiful, tender and often funny novel. It's structure of reverse chronology gives it a wonderful emotional tension. Yvette Edwards writing is engaging and she draws her central characters with humour and emotional truth. I read this in one sitting on a flight over the freezing Baltic and it took me away to another place and kept me entertained throughout.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC.
The novel drifts backwards in time from this, showing Ellen and her Clyde, and the stories of this family, going all the way back to Montserrat. We hear how experience shaped her, and how stepped into marriage knowing more than others felt she knew.
Good Good Loving is a beautiful, tender and often funny novel. It's structure of reverse chronology gives it a wonderful emotional tension. Yvette Edwards writing is engaging and she draws her central characters with humour and emotional truth. I read this in one sitting on a flight over the freezing Baltic and it took me away to another place and kept me entertained throughout.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC.
March 27, 2026
I loved this book. It was refreshing. The author has written about a woman in the last days of life, she has lost consciousness, whilst she lies in her bed, she quietly reflects her long life. This book has humour and sadness in bounds. The characters are very well portrayed and it feels they really could be a family I know but giving extra insight into each member, something we rarely get the opportunity to do, to know everyone.
The story is told through Ellen and like so many she has a complicated family. Good Good Loving moves backwards and forwards in time, covering Ellen's long life and includes the good and the bad times. As she lies in her bed with family around her, Ellen cant talk but can listen to her families recollections of her life. This book does not flinch from so many issues, yet it has so many other angles. It's a gripping read.
The story is told through Ellen and like so many she has a complicated family. Good Good Loving moves backwards and forwards in time, covering Ellen's long life and includes the good and the bad times. As she lies in her bed with family around her, Ellen cant talk but can listen to her families recollections of her life. This book does not flinch from so many issues, yet it has so many other angles. It's a gripping read.
January 27, 2026
A hugely enjoyable book, starting in a great way with the heroine of the story listening to her irritating family on her deathbed and allowing herself to reflect on her life.
There’s a great cast of characters, particularly her philandering but attractive husband and her children and grandchildren, who all regularly gather together at her house bringing their issues with them. It manages to be a humorous book despite some of the topics.
She doesn’t deserve most of the difficulties in her life but her character is extremely believable and easy to feel emotion for. You trust that the author is going to tie up all the loose ends as she takes you back through the story.
Thank you to Netgalley for the preview copy in return for a review.
There’s a great cast of characters, particularly her philandering but attractive husband and her children and grandchildren, who all regularly gather together at her house bringing their issues with them. It manages to be a humorous book despite some of the topics.
She doesn’t deserve most of the difficulties in her life but her character is extremely believable and easy to feel emotion for. You trust that the author is going to tie up all the loose ends as she takes you back through the story.
Thank you to Netgalley for the preview copy in return for a review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really liked the structure of this book - beginning at the end and gradually moving backwards allowed the nuances of this family’s relationships to unfold in a really effective way. As the story rewinds, we see how generational stigmas and stereotypes are passed down, often unquestioned, and only recognised when it’s already too late.
I do think the epilogue could have been stronger. I would have liked to see more reflection on how upbringing and generational expectations shape behaviour, particularly in how judgement is passed down through families. Ellen is often viewed in a negative light; however, those around her continue to place the same rigid expectations on the younger generation - a parallel that felt like it deserved to be explored more explicitly.
I do think the epilogue could have been stronger. I would have liked to see more reflection on how upbringing and generational expectations shape behaviour, particularly in how judgement is passed down through families. Ellen is often viewed in a negative light; however, those around her continue to place the same rigid expectations on the younger generation - a parallel that felt like it deserved to be explored more explicitly.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Little Brown Book Group UK and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I went into this read a bit blind, not really knowing what the book was about. It honestly blew me away. The non-chronological story felt like it really added to the experience of understanding characters, their relationships and motivations. I loved learning about Ellen and her family’s lives and felt like I knew her well by the end. It was beautifully written and engaging throughout, well paced and had a perfect balance of story and thoughts/reflections. I would certainly be recommending this to friends and family.
I went into this read a bit blind, not really knowing what the book was about. It honestly blew me away. The non-chronological story felt like it really added to the experience of understanding characters, their relationships and motivations. I loved learning about Ellen and her family’s lives and felt like I knew her well by the end. It was beautifully written and engaging throughout, well paced and had a perfect balance of story and thoughts/reflections. I would certainly be recommending this to friends and family.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Imagine lying on your deathbed while your children and grandchildren speak freely about your flaws, believing you can’t hear them. But Ellen hears everything.
Told backwards, this novel unfolds the life of a woman who built a loving, complicated family while quietly carrying deeply emotional wounds.
Ellen accepts the love she thinks she deserves when she marries Clyde — a man who comes and goes without concern.
She learns to close her eyes to his betrayal, caring for everyone around her in the best way she knows, shaped by her upbringing and inherited patterns of love and endurance.
Despite its heavy themes, this is not a heavy story. It is filled with warmth and humour. A beautifully layered novel and already one of my favourite reads of 2026.
Told backwards, this novel unfolds the life of a woman who built a loving, complicated family while quietly carrying deeply emotional wounds.
Ellen accepts the love she thinks she deserves when she marries Clyde — a man who comes and goes without concern.
She learns to close her eyes to his betrayal, caring for everyone around her in the best way she knows, shaped by her upbringing and inherited patterns of love and endurance.
Despite its heavy themes, this is not a heavy story. It is filled with warmth and humour. A beautifully layered novel and already one of my favourite reads of 2026.
March 5, 2026
I was concerned at first that this was going to be a book that was difficult to read with matriarch Ellen in the terminal stages of illness reflecting on her life and family who are sitting with her in hospital. Instead it was a multi generational story of a family of Caribbean origin now living in the UK with their history told through Ellen's memories. Cut through with humour it tells, in reverse, of her tough life with a cheating husband. I hope she went Up and is enjoying the Garden of Eden
Thank you to netgalley and Little Brown Book Group UK for an advance copy of this book.
Thank you to netgalley and Little Brown Book Group UK for an advance copy of this book.
January 31, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read this book in return for an honest review. I absolutely adored this story and found Ellen to be such an inspirational female protagonist. She was the glue that held the family together. I was deeply moved by parts of this story and I also found myself laughing out loud at other parts. A thoroughly emotional and heartfelt story that I would definitely recommend. 5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
'Good Good Loving' is a heartfelt family story. As Ellen lies dying we get insights into her life. Working backwards and forwards throughout the years of family dramas and relationships we find out what made Ellen tick .. and why. It's a very well written book and at times it's very emotional. This one will stay with you after the last page. Thank you to the author, publisher and netGalley for an arc of this moving novel, one I'm happy to recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A very unusual way of telling Ellen’s life story – from her deathbed to her birth. Lots of interesting stories and reminiscing about her life history as the chapters unfold. It gives a god insight into family dynamics and how her daughters perceive the injustices of their position in the birth order.
An extremely interesting read which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I received a free copy of this novel from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
An extremely interesting read which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I received a free copy of this novel from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book was wonderful! I really enjoyed how the story was told in reverse and everything was tied together perfectly by the end. There are a lot of characters in the novel and you are able to get a balanced perspective from each of them and see how they form part of the bigger picture. Although not an entirely happy story, it was a vety entertaining and satisfying read.
March 27, 2026
This book was sent to me by the publisher through NetGalley.
I'm not as much into family drama-type books, but it gripped me from the start with likeable and relatable characterisation.
The book starts with matriarch, Ellen, on her deathbed, with her family all around her. What follows is snippets of stories of how the characters got to that point, with the picture of the family building, piece by piece. You get to fully understand the sacrifices and compromises that Ellen made, to bring and keep this family together, with admiration for her stoicism growing as you fly through the chapters.
I really enjoyed reading Good Good Loving and would definitely look other books up by Yvette Edwards.
Thanks to Yvette Edwards, Little, Brown Book Group and NetGalley for this ARC in return for an honest review.
I'm not as much into family drama-type books, but it gripped me from the start with likeable and relatable characterisation.
The book starts with matriarch, Ellen, on her deathbed, with her family all around her. What follows is snippets of stories of how the characters got to that point, with the picture of the family building, piece by piece. You get to fully understand the sacrifices and compromises that Ellen made, to bring and keep this family together, with admiration for her stoicism growing as you fly through the chapters.
I really enjoyed reading Good Good Loving and would definitely look other books up by Yvette Edwards.
Thanks to Yvette Edwards, Little, Brown Book Group and NetGalley for this ARC in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A beautiful book with as much humour as it has heart. Here lies the layers and complexities of a West Indian family.
Aunty Yvvette, you smashed it. Grandma Sue would have loved this book 🙂↕️
Aunty Yvvette, you smashed it. Grandma Sue would have loved this book 🙂↕️
March 14, 2026
it was a quick read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews