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The Life I Didn’t Plan
Beth didn't expect to get pregnant at seventeen.
Nor did she think she'd lose the name and address of the father of her child. Swept up in romance on her French exchange, all she remembers is that his hair smelt like mangoes.
Now, in 2026, at her school reunion, she opens the time capsule she wrote to herself at that time. Inside she finds a letter that alters everything Beth thought she knew about her past, and provides an all important clue for finding the father of her 19-year-old daughter, Maisie.
Hit hard by the difference between the life she hoped for and the one she’s living, Beth is faced with a choice: chase the adventures she once dreamed of, or embrace the new opportunities life presents?
Nor did she think she'd lose the name and address of the father of her child. Swept up in romance on her French exchange, all she remembers is that his hair smelt like mangoes.
Now, in 2026, at her school reunion, she opens the time capsule she wrote to herself at that time. Inside she finds a letter that alters everything Beth thought she knew about her past, and provides an all important clue for finding the father of her 19-year-old daughter, Maisie.
Hit hard by the difference between the life she hoped for and the one she’s living, Beth is faced with a choice: chase the adventures she once dreamed of, or embrace the new opportunities life presents?
- GenresRomance
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2026
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June 18, 2026
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⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Life I Didn’t Plan
Charlotte Butterfield
Publication Date: June 18th, 2026
Avon Books UK | Avon
352 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction
This is my first book by this author, and I am kicking myself for not getting one of her books sooner. I will definitely be checking out her backlist. This story was witty and heartwarming, and for me, very relatable. Beth got pregnant when she was just 17 (me too) while she was an exchange student in France. She has raised her daughter, Maisie, as a single mom because she didn't have much information on the father, as it was a whirlwind summer romance in 2006. But then in 2026, at her high school reunion, she opens a time capsule letter that she wrote to herself, and it contains a clue that could help her track down Maisie's dad. This letter also brings Beth's old dreams back to the forefront of her mind, and she realises the difference between what she wanted and what she got. Maisie is now nineteen years old, so Beth has to decide if she should go chasing the past and her old dreams, or should she just enjoy what she has in the here and now, right in front of her?
This book was very humourous, which surprised me with the heavy issues it tackles. I loved how it showed the funny side of family dynamics. The way the author balances the heavy topics with the funny moments shows how unpredictable life can be. I also appreciated that this wasn't romance-focused; it's more about motherly love, our dreams and wants for ourselves, and second chances when we are faced with an empty nest. Both Beth and Maisie have a wonderful relationship, and I was so happy to read about how close they are—this is true with me and my oldest as we grew up together. I loved their bond and was cheering them both on.
Overall, this was such a joy to read, and the pacing never slowed. There were a few coincidences towards the end, but I was able to overlook them because of how utterly charming the book is and how satisfying I found the end. If you enjoy stories with heart and humour as I do, this is a great way to get both in one single book. I loved how it didn't show teenage pregnancy and single motherhood in a negative light. My life and my son's were both very happy, even though we ran into countless unexpected roadblocks along the way.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
The Book Review Crew Blog
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Life I Didn’t Plan
Charlotte Butterfield
Publication Date: June 18th, 2026
Avon Books UK | Avon
352 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction
This is my first book by this author, and I am kicking myself for not getting one of her books sooner. I will definitely be checking out her backlist. This story was witty and heartwarming, and for me, very relatable. Beth got pregnant when she was just 17 (me too) while she was an exchange student in France. She has raised her daughter, Maisie, as a single mom because she didn't have much information on the father, as it was a whirlwind summer romance in 2006. But then in 2026, at her high school reunion, she opens a time capsule letter that she wrote to herself, and it contains a clue that could help her track down Maisie's dad. This letter also brings Beth's old dreams back to the forefront of her mind, and she realises the difference between what she wanted and what she got. Maisie is now nineteen years old, so Beth has to decide if she should go chasing the past and her old dreams, or should she just enjoy what she has in the here and now, right in front of her?
This book was very humourous, which surprised me with the heavy issues it tackles. I loved how it showed the funny side of family dynamics. The way the author balances the heavy topics with the funny moments shows how unpredictable life can be. I also appreciated that this wasn't romance-focused; it's more about motherly love, our dreams and wants for ourselves, and second chances when we are faced with an empty nest. Both Beth and Maisie have a wonderful relationship, and I was so happy to read about how close they are—this is true with me and my oldest as we grew up together. I loved their bond and was cheering them both on.
Overall, this was such a joy to read, and the pacing never slowed. There were a few coincidences towards the end, but I was able to overlook them because of how utterly charming the book is and how satisfying I found the end. If you enjoy stories with heart and humour as I do, this is a great way to get both in one single book. I loved how it didn't show teenage pregnancy and single motherhood in a negative light. My life and my son's were both very happy, even though we ran into countless unexpected roadblocks along the way.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
April 18, 2026
I cannot believe i loved this book this much. Maybe it was just what I needed? I lovedddd the end of life/hospice inclusions because im super passionate about that. So many good quotes and reflections on how life doesnt always go according to plan. But sometimes its meant to be that way. Ugh i may need to read more from this author!!!
June 26, 2026
The Life I Didn’t Plan was such an enjoyable read. Full of great reflections on how life doesn’t always turn out the way you expected, but sometimes for the best.
Beth was a brilliant character: relatable, likeable, and quietly courageous. I loved watching her push herself outside her comfort zone.
I’ve read a few books by this author now and they’re always a safe bet for an easy, feel-good read with nicely built characters.
Beth was a brilliant character: relatable, likeable, and quietly courageous. I loved watching her push herself outside her comfort zone.
I’ve read a few books by this author now and they’re always a safe bet for an easy, feel-good read with nicely built characters.
July 22, 2026
This was such a lovely little wholesome book which had just the right amount of magic mixed with reality to make it realistic. Will definitely give more by this author a read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Getting pregnant at 17 wasn’t quite what Beth had planned.
What a fabulous book. I loved every moment of The Life I Didn’t Plan. I found it convincing, emotional and completely engaging. It’s an absolute belter.
The plot is super as Beth decides now is the time to begin to live a little. The fact that her ‘journey’ through The Life I Didn’t Plan doesn’t always happen in a straightforward manner, frequently stalls and more often than not terrifies her, ensures that the reader is on her side throughout.
Beth is such a brilliant character. Having spent her entire adult life focused on Maisie, when Maisie heads to university she finds herself somewhat adrift. This is hugely relatable. Whilst she adores her daughter, there is also the poignant sense that she has missed out on her own life in the interim of bringing up Maisie. She has an uneasy relationship with her own parents which provides contrast and depth.
Her job is quite wonderful as she works in palliative care at the end of people’s lives. It’s this profession that leads to so much humour in The Life I Didn’t Plan. Charlotte Butterfield explores the links between life and death, between joy and sadness, and between grief and relief with remarkable dexterity so that the reader feels as if she might be describing their own life, drawing them in and making them feel ‘seen’.
I thought the dynamic between Beth and her daughter Maisie was brilliantly handled because the closeness of their relationship is warm and loving and the direct speech between them is so natural that it’s like eavesdropping on their conversations. At the same time, both have secrets and opinions that they don’t always express fully for fear of hurting one another so that there’s the capacity for tension and change, giving added interest to this fabulous story.
There’s also a wonderful romance in The Life I Didn’t Plan. I was completely enamoured of Jack myself. Charlotte Butterfield is fully aware of Beth’s flaws and presents her unreasonable side as well as her humour as she gets to know Jack, making for fun, frustration and laugh aloud moments that ameliorate some of the more emotionally charged events. I thought this aspect of the book was magnificent.
Whilst The Life I Didn’t Plan is totally wonderful, for me the most fabulous aspect was the exploration of second chances, and of the realisation that what we think we want isn’t necessarily what we truly want – or need. Reading Beth’s story helps the reader to reflect on their own life, assess their own priorities and give thanks for successes, however small they may be. This makes the story incredibly impactful and touching as well as funny and entertaining.
The Life I Didn’t Plan is a cracking read. It made me laugh aloud, brought an occasional lump to my throat and held me captivated from start to finish. I cannot recommend it highly enough. And now I’m off to stick my bucket list on the fridge – or am I?
What a fabulous book. I loved every moment of The Life I Didn’t Plan. I found it convincing, emotional and completely engaging. It’s an absolute belter.
The plot is super as Beth decides now is the time to begin to live a little. The fact that her ‘journey’ through The Life I Didn’t Plan doesn’t always happen in a straightforward manner, frequently stalls and more often than not terrifies her, ensures that the reader is on her side throughout.
Beth is such a brilliant character. Having spent her entire adult life focused on Maisie, when Maisie heads to university she finds herself somewhat adrift. This is hugely relatable. Whilst she adores her daughter, there is also the poignant sense that she has missed out on her own life in the interim of bringing up Maisie. She has an uneasy relationship with her own parents which provides contrast and depth.
Her job is quite wonderful as she works in palliative care at the end of people’s lives. It’s this profession that leads to so much humour in The Life I Didn’t Plan. Charlotte Butterfield explores the links between life and death, between joy and sadness, and between grief and relief with remarkable dexterity so that the reader feels as if she might be describing their own life, drawing them in and making them feel ‘seen’.
I thought the dynamic between Beth and her daughter Maisie was brilliantly handled because the closeness of their relationship is warm and loving and the direct speech between them is so natural that it’s like eavesdropping on their conversations. At the same time, both have secrets and opinions that they don’t always express fully for fear of hurting one another so that there’s the capacity for tension and change, giving added interest to this fabulous story.
There’s also a wonderful romance in The Life I Didn’t Plan. I was completely enamoured of Jack myself. Charlotte Butterfield is fully aware of Beth’s flaws and presents her unreasonable side as well as her humour as she gets to know Jack, making for fun, frustration and laugh aloud moments that ameliorate some of the more emotionally charged events. I thought this aspect of the book was magnificent.
Whilst The Life I Didn’t Plan is totally wonderful, for me the most fabulous aspect was the exploration of second chances, and of the realisation that what we think we want isn’t necessarily what we truly want – or need. Reading Beth’s story helps the reader to reflect on their own life, assess their own priorities and give thanks for successes, however small they may be. This makes the story incredibly impactful and touching as well as funny and entertaining.
The Life I Didn’t Plan is a cracking read. It made me laugh aloud, brought an occasional lump to my throat and held me captivated from start to finish. I cannot recommend it highly enough. And now I’m off to stick my bucket list on the fridge – or am I?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a really good book about second chances and reaching a certain point in your life where you look back and wonder if things could have been different, either if you made a different choice or maybe even if you were given the wrong information at a point in time and that affected your life. I think I am in my reflective era at the moment and I was really drawn into this hugely enjoyable and witty book.
Beth didn’t expect to get pregnant at 17. Now, twenty years later, she realizes there’s a huge gap between the life she’d hoped for and the one she’s currently living. Throw in a school reunion and that always gets you reminiscing about the past, looking back on your life and achievements and wondering how you'll compare to your old school classmates. It was a really good premise for a story and delivered on many levels. The story is from Beth's POV as we look back to 20 years ago and the present day.
At the reunion all the classmates are presented with a Letter to My Future Self, written when they were 17 and described what they thought they'd be doing in the future. We could clearly see the contrast between the 17 year old Beth and the 37 year old Beth, looking back at the letter. She then uses this as an opportunity to make changes to her life, which was fascinating.
Beth is an end of life care giver. I thought this was a really interesting role to give to Beth. To me it kind of signified a profound and deep thinking about the past and how we live our lives, the decisions and choices we make, especially at the end of life. There was a lot of humour along the way though to lighten things up.
Beth was an easy character to like and relate to. I thought she was a great character. You felt you could admire her courage and resilience throughout the book as she made positive decisions in her present to offset the insecurities and difficulties from her past. Bath goes off on adventures and it is fun and enjoyable to be swept along with her.
The writing is so good and does leave you thinking about whether the things you think you want, are really what you need and to maybe enjoy life in the present.
It was full of hope, with a great setting, fab plot and lovely characters to get to know. It was a gentle but powerful story that I enjoyed.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for the chance to review this eARC.
Beth didn’t expect to get pregnant at 17. Now, twenty years later, she realizes there’s a huge gap between the life she’d hoped for and the one she’s currently living. Throw in a school reunion and that always gets you reminiscing about the past, looking back on your life and achievements and wondering how you'll compare to your old school classmates. It was a really good premise for a story and delivered on many levels. The story is from Beth's POV as we look back to 20 years ago and the present day.
At the reunion all the classmates are presented with a Letter to My Future Self, written when they were 17 and described what they thought they'd be doing in the future. We could clearly see the contrast between the 17 year old Beth and the 37 year old Beth, looking back at the letter. She then uses this as an opportunity to make changes to her life, which was fascinating.
Beth is an end of life care giver. I thought this was a really interesting role to give to Beth. To me it kind of signified a profound and deep thinking about the past and how we live our lives, the decisions and choices we make, especially at the end of life. There was a lot of humour along the way though to lighten things up.
Beth was an easy character to like and relate to. I thought she was a great character. You felt you could admire her courage and resilience throughout the book as she made positive decisions in her present to offset the insecurities and difficulties from her past. Bath goes off on adventures and it is fun and enjoyable to be swept along with her.
The writing is so good and does leave you thinking about whether the things you think you want, are really what you need and to maybe enjoy life in the present.
It was full of hope, with a great setting, fab plot and lovely characters to get to know. It was a gentle but powerful story that I enjoyed.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for the chance to review this eARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This novel delivers far more than the book synopsis indicates. Yes, the protagonist does get to explore the differences between teenage dreams for the future and the reality of life as a mature adult. However, that theme is like the lyrics without the melody that brings a song to life. Her work as an end-of-life caregiver and the impact she has on friends, family and clients is more profound and, for me, far more interesting.
Fostering doubts about the wisdom of meeting former classmates, Beth attends her 20-year school reunion and is presented with a “Letter to My Future Self written by her at age 17. The stark contrast between what the letter writer envisioned and how her life has unfolded serves as a catalyst to move out of her comfort zone and explore new possibilities. These include travel, investigating a possible career change, a budding romance, and tracking down the father of her child.
It was easy to relate with Beth as she faces her future now that her daughter has left home for college. I admired her courage and resilience in the face of her insecurities. While parts of the storyline stretched the limits of plausibility, I still found it enjoyable and satisfying. The humor shines through in just the right places, especially in the interactions with Jack, son of a former client, as their attraction turns into romance.
The author sums up the underlying message toward the end of the book, by noting that the future we think we want doesn’t compare with the beauty of the one we are living. She further notes that joy is found in the present…in quiet moments when we stop pursuing the “shoulds” and listen within to what is truly important.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
Fostering doubts about the wisdom of meeting former classmates, Beth attends her 20-year school reunion and is presented with a “Letter to My Future Self written by her at age 17. The stark contrast between what the letter writer envisioned and how her life has unfolded serves as a catalyst to move out of her comfort zone and explore new possibilities. These include travel, investigating a possible career change, a budding romance, and tracking down the father of her child.
It was easy to relate with Beth as she faces her future now that her daughter has left home for college. I admired her courage and resilience in the face of her insecurities. While parts of the storyline stretched the limits of plausibility, I still found it enjoyable and satisfying. The humor shines through in just the right places, especially in the interactions with Jack, son of a former client, as their attraction turns into romance.
The author sums up the underlying message toward the end of the book, by noting that the future we think we want doesn’t compare with the beauty of the one we are living. She further notes that joy is found in the present…in quiet moments when we stop pursuing the “shoulds” and listen within to what is truly important.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I have read three of her books I think and I've enjoyed them all. She writes books that, at first glance might not feel relatable, but then you get to know the characters and you realise that the story could be your own.
It's a book with a powerful message behind it, but it's also fun and enjoyable to read.
I mean, it's advertised as a "laugh out loud" story. But I can't say I found it funny at all. That's not a negative on the book, and if it hadn't have said it, I wouldn't have mentioned it, because it's not something I thought the book needed.
It did take a while to get going. The opening half wasn't bad, but it was a bit too genteel with not much happening. Which I generally don't mind. But it started with this strong look at your past and realising you haven't achieved what you wanted to, but then it continues in that vein for a while, a lot of thinking and talking and very little doing. So I'd have liked it to have picked up a bit earlier.
I like this idea of what you should have achieved by a certain age. When I was a kid, my life plan was: graduate at 21, get my dream job, buy a house at 24, marry at 26, kids by 30. Instead, I am 32, still living with my mum, chronically ill, and unemployed. So life doesn't always turn out the way you think it'll be. But that doesn't have to be a bad thing. It's about finding the positives from your dream life in your real life.
I enjoy it, I did, don't get me wrong. It was fun, exciting, hopeful, and everything I wanted. But it didn't grab me. So, when I was reading it, I was enjoying it. But when I put it down, I didn't find myself thinking about it or rushing to get back to it. But I can't give you a reason why that is. Everything about it - setting, plot, characters, message - I enjoyed, but there was just this excitement level, this spark that was missing.
I have read three of her books I think and I've enjoyed them all. She writes books that, at first glance might not feel relatable, but then you get to know the characters and you realise that the story could be your own.
It's a book with a powerful message behind it, but it's also fun and enjoyable to read.
I mean, it's advertised as a "laugh out loud" story. But I can't say I found it funny at all. That's not a negative on the book, and if it hadn't have said it, I wouldn't have mentioned it, because it's not something I thought the book needed.
It did take a while to get going. The opening half wasn't bad, but it was a bit too genteel with not much happening. Which I generally don't mind. But it started with this strong look at your past and realising you haven't achieved what you wanted to, but then it continues in that vein for a while, a lot of thinking and talking and very little doing. So I'd have liked it to have picked up a bit earlier.
I like this idea of what you should have achieved by a certain age. When I was a kid, my life plan was: graduate at 21, get my dream job, buy a house at 24, marry at 26, kids by 30. Instead, I am 32, still living with my mum, chronically ill, and unemployed. So life doesn't always turn out the way you think it'll be. But that doesn't have to be a bad thing. It's about finding the positives from your dream life in your real life.
I enjoy it, I did, don't get me wrong. It was fun, exciting, hopeful, and everything I wanted. But it didn't grab me. So, when I was reading it, I was enjoying it. But when I put it down, I didn't find myself thinking about it or rushing to get back to it. But I can't give you a reason why that is. Everything about it - setting, plot, characters, message - I enjoyed, but there was just this excitement level, this spark that was missing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. This book had elements I really enjoyed, and a few not so much. This book is about a young single mother who has got through life with just her daughter, and now that she's grown, a high school reunion and a letter from her younger self made her rethink her entire life.
The main character is a palliative care nurse, and I loved these elements of the story. The detail of how she cared for the patients, the conversations she had with them and their families were lovely to read.
The relationship with Jack, brother of a school nemesis, was interesting. It felt like she was too harsh in pushing him away, and he just gave in and let her.
Paris was a far fetched plan I felt. Wandering around a town asking about a man and no one raised any issue with this? And the whole jetting off to Paris with a random man who you barely know, then leaving said man and getting a new hotel on your own when you've never left the UK. It was all a bit too extreme and didn't fit in with the story. And the daughters relationship with her new found dad, how quickly she called him dad and just practically moved with him. And she just left her mam, tossed aside the woman who had done everything for her so she could have this whole new family?
And then the Spanish boyfriend and the "step mam", that was such an unnecessary addition I felt.
Overall, a nice easy read filled with a lot of interesting parts, and some not so interesting parts. But I would recommend as a book that you can read quickly and be interested in.
The main character is a palliative care nurse, and I loved these elements of the story. The detail of how she cared for the patients, the conversations she had with them and their families were lovely to read.
The relationship with Jack, brother of a school nemesis, was interesting. It felt like she was too harsh in pushing him away, and he just gave in and let her.
Paris was a far fetched plan I felt. Wandering around a town asking about a man and no one raised any issue with this? And the whole jetting off to Paris with a random man who you barely know, then leaving said man and getting a new hotel on your own when you've never left the UK. It was all a bit too extreme and didn't fit in with the story. And the daughters relationship with her new found dad, how quickly she called him dad and just practically moved with him. And she just left her mam, tossed aside the woman who had done everything for her so she could have this whole new family?
And then the Spanish boyfriend and the "step mam", that was such an unnecessary addition I felt.
Overall, a nice easy read filled with a lot of interesting parts, and some not so interesting parts. But I would recommend as a book that you can read quickly and be interested in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When you read a Charlotte Butterfield novel you know you’re in for an emotional ride, laughing out loud one minute whilst fighting the tears the next, even contemplating your own life choices wondering what you might have done differently.
We follow Beth on her journey of discovery from finding herself pregnant at 17 by a boy she met on a school French trip, only remembering him by his first name Marc and his deliciously smelling hair. With a daughter, Maisie now 19 and away at university, Beth is practically forced to go to her school reunion to open a time capsule where a letter to her future self gives her some serious food for thought making her mind up to return to Paris to try and track down Maisie’s father. Add in Beth’s job as a palliative care giver, she meets an interesting family on New Years Eve which opens up feelings she hasn’t had for a while too.
This book is genuinely wittily funny, heartwarming, heartbreaking and uplifting. There is a message in it to just enjoy the simple things in life, but so much more too. The author has an incredible knack of drawing you in with dialogue that is just so easy to read you almost think you’re part of the conversation. With one-liners that many comedians would be proud of, I find it an absolute joy to read a Charlotte Butterfield book and cannot recommend highly enough. Brilliant.
Many thanks to Jessie at Avon and NetGalley for an early copy in return for an honest review.
We follow Beth on her journey of discovery from finding herself pregnant at 17 by a boy she met on a school French trip, only remembering him by his first name Marc and his deliciously smelling hair. With a daughter, Maisie now 19 and away at university, Beth is practically forced to go to her school reunion to open a time capsule where a letter to her future self gives her some serious food for thought making her mind up to return to Paris to try and track down Maisie’s father. Add in Beth’s job as a palliative care giver, she meets an interesting family on New Years Eve which opens up feelings she hasn’t had for a while too.
This book is genuinely wittily funny, heartwarming, heartbreaking and uplifting. There is a message in it to just enjoy the simple things in life, but so much more too. The author has an incredible knack of drawing you in with dialogue that is just so easy to read you almost think you’re part of the conversation. With one-liners that many comedians would be proud of, I find it an absolute joy to read a Charlotte Butterfield book and cannot recommend highly enough. Brilliant.
Many thanks to Jessie at Avon and NetGalley for an early copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rounded up from 3.5⭐️
This was a really fun, witty read! There were so many moments that made me giggle as well as more emotional, profound scenes. A perfect mix.
I related a lot to Beth and the regret she felt when she opened the letter from her 17 year old self and realised she didn't have the life she dreamed of. It's so easy to get stuck in a cycle of what ifs and comparisons with your peers, which Beth has more time to do now her daughter Maisie is at uni.
I loved the overall message of it not being too late to do the things you planned. Beth makes changes, tries new things, travels, falls in love. But also sees the cracks and imperfections in the life she dreamed. The life she has is better than what she hoped for.
The one thing I found odd was the casual mentions of Beth asking AI/ChatGPT things. I really don't think that should be normalised and it seemed out of character for Beth to be a fan of it. Its inclusion was unnecessary and turned me off the book a bit.
Some parts of the story did also feel a bit far-fetched, especially towards the end. For example, no one would be able to speak French rapidly and fluently to native people after only a year of learning (from experience haha).
But having said that, I did still really enjoy this novel. I loved the travel locations and the found family and Beth's job as an end-of-life carer was really interesting.
This was a really fun, witty read! There were so many moments that made me giggle as well as more emotional, profound scenes. A perfect mix.
I related a lot to Beth and the regret she felt when she opened the letter from her 17 year old self and realised she didn't have the life she dreamed of. It's so easy to get stuck in a cycle of what ifs and comparisons with your peers, which Beth has more time to do now her daughter Maisie is at uni.
I loved the overall message of it not being too late to do the things you planned. Beth makes changes, tries new things, travels, falls in love. But also sees the cracks and imperfections in the life she dreamed. The life she has is better than what she hoped for.
The one thing I found odd was the casual mentions of Beth asking AI/ChatGPT things. I really don't think that should be normalised and it seemed out of character for Beth to be a fan of it. Its inclusion was unnecessary and turned me off the book a bit.
Some parts of the story did also feel a bit far-fetched, especially towards the end. For example, no one would be able to speak French rapidly and fluently to native people after only a year of learning (from experience haha).
But having said that, I did still really enjoy this novel. I loved the travel locations and the found family and Beth's job as an end-of-life carer was really interesting.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and ended up reading it in just a couple of sittings, it completely pulled me in from the start.
The characters felt incredibly real and relatable, the kind of people you genuinely want to cheer on and see succeed. There were so many moments of humour that I could relate to, I actually found myself laughing out loud, only for the next chapter to completely shift my emotions and leave me feeling moved and, at times, quite saddened. That balance between lightness and emotional depth was done beautifully.
The mother-daughter relationship was a real standout for me. It was portrayed with warmth, honesty, and depth, and the theme of parental sacrifice was woven throughout in such a natural and realistic way. Beth’s early pregnancy and the choices she made were handled with honesty and sensitivity, making her story feel authentic and genuinely welcoming to read.
I also loved Beth’s journey of self-discovery. At the beginning, she thinks she knows what she wants, although really, only in the way a 17-year-old can. As the story unfolds, she begins to realise that what she thought she wanted isn’t actually what will make her happy. Watching her rediscover her identity, let go of missed opportunities, and rethink her path was both refreshing and inspiring.
One of the most powerful elements of the story was its reflection on life and loss. The exploration of grief was handled so tastefully, reminding us just how fragile and fleeting life can be. It’s a story that quietly encourages you to take chances, to live fully, and not to leave things unsaid or undone.
At its heart, this book is a gentle but powerful reminder to live life on your own terms, to follow what truly makes you happy, rather than what’s expected of you, and to find contentment in the life you have.
A heartfelt, funny, and thought provoking read that I’d absolutely recommend.
The characters felt incredibly real and relatable, the kind of people you genuinely want to cheer on and see succeed. There were so many moments of humour that I could relate to, I actually found myself laughing out loud, only for the next chapter to completely shift my emotions and leave me feeling moved and, at times, quite saddened. That balance between lightness and emotional depth was done beautifully.
The mother-daughter relationship was a real standout for me. It was portrayed with warmth, honesty, and depth, and the theme of parental sacrifice was woven throughout in such a natural and realistic way. Beth’s early pregnancy and the choices she made were handled with honesty and sensitivity, making her story feel authentic and genuinely welcoming to read.
I also loved Beth’s journey of self-discovery. At the beginning, she thinks she knows what she wants, although really, only in the way a 17-year-old can. As the story unfolds, she begins to realise that what she thought she wanted isn’t actually what will make her happy. Watching her rediscover her identity, let go of missed opportunities, and rethink her path was both refreshing and inspiring.
One of the most powerful elements of the story was its reflection on life and loss. The exploration of grief was handled so tastefully, reminding us just how fragile and fleeting life can be. It’s a story that quietly encourages you to take chances, to live fully, and not to leave things unsaid or undone.
At its heart, this book is a gentle but powerful reminder to live life on your own terms, to follow what truly makes you happy, rather than what’s expected of you, and to find contentment in the life you have.
A heartfelt, funny, and thought provoking read that I’d absolutely recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What happens when the life you planned has never even got started?
I've read two previous novels by Charlotte Butterfield - The Second Chance and The Sister Switch - and really enjoyed them both. So I was excited to read The Life I Didn't Plan.
Pregnant at seventeen (following a brief romance on a school trip to France), and a mother at eighteen, Beth has spent her life looking after others - daughter Maisie, and the terminally ill patients she cares for as a palliative carer. What Beth hasn't managed quite so well is forging any kind of life of her own. Forced to leave school due to her pregnancy, the career as a midwife that she dreamt of never got off the ground, and her love life has been a non-starter.
Now, with Maisie away at university, life is about to develop in unexpected ways. A New Year's Eve callout to a dying elderly man takes an extraordinary turn. And it looks like it's time to finally track down Maisie's father, the boy who never answered Beth's letters...
Sometimes the future we plan isn't nearly as beautiful as the one we never saw coming.
A great read with a really engaging main character who it was easy to warm to. Recommended!
I've read two previous novels by Charlotte Butterfield - The Second Chance and The Sister Switch - and really enjoyed them both. So I was excited to read The Life I Didn't Plan.
Pregnant at seventeen (following a brief romance on a school trip to France), and a mother at eighteen, Beth has spent her life looking after others - daughter Maisie, and the terminally ill patients she cares for as a palliative carer. What Beth hasn't managed quite so well is forging any kind of life of her own. Forced to leave school due to her pregnancy, the career as a midwife that she dreamt of never got off the ground, and her love life has been a non-starter.
Now, with Maisie away at university, life is about to develop in unexpected ways. A New Year's Eve callout to a dying elderly man takes an extraordinary turn. And it looks like it's time to finally track down Maisie's father, the boy who never answered Beth's letters...
Sometimes the future we plan isn't nearly as beautiful as the one we never saw coming.
A great read with a really engaging main character who it was easy to warm to. Recommended!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh what a wonderful read this was.
Beth was such an amazing character, easy to like and very relatable. Her strength and courage were my favourite things about her. Even when something wasn’t comfortable to her she went ahead and did it anyway.
Jack was brilliant, I loved that knowing her for only a little time he encouraged Beth to do something she wanted to do. Encouraged her to live life the way she wanted to. He was so kind and lovely and honestly, I just wanted to hug him
I loved being able to follow Beth on her journey, watch her live and laugh and love. Seeing her experience new things, things she’s wanted to do for so long, it was just beautiful.
Charlotte brought us another amazing book with a whole lot of feelings and growth. This is my second read from this author and I’m addicted, I need to read more.
The storyline and the settings were perfect, the character growth was on point and I just couldn’t get enough.
The Life I Didn’t Plan is about second chances at love, learning to love and live life the way one wants. It’s about overcoming securities and living for one’s self and not everyone else. It was fun and beautiful.
Beth was such an amazing character, easy to like and very relatable. Her strength and courage were my favourite things about her. Even when something wasn’t comfortable to her she went ahead and did it anyway.
Jack was brilliant, I loved that knowing her for only a little time he encouraged Beth to do something she wanted to do. Encouraged her to live life the way she wanted to. He was so kind and lovely and honestly, I just wanted to hug him
I loved being able to follow Beth on her journey, watch her live and laugh and love. Seeing her experience new things, things she’s wanted to do for so long, it was just beautiful.
Charlotte brought us another amazing book with a whole lot of feelings and growth. This is my second read from this author and I’m addicted, I need to read more.
The storyline and the settings were perfect, the character growth was on point and I just couldn’t get enough.
The Life I Didn’t Plan is about second chances at love, learning to love and live life the way one wants. It’s about overcoming securities and living for one’s self and not everyone else. It was fun and beautiful.
June 6, 2026
Beth pregnant at 17 and failing to sit her final school exams,has lived her life bringing up her daughter alone. The father of her baby having been a French boy she met whilst she was on an exchange in France.
Working as a palliative care nurse, helping people at the end of their lives and as a single mother she led quite a simple life. But it wasn’t what she had planned and dreamed of as a young girl, which was revealed at a school reunion in a letter that had been put in a time capsule many years before.
This story started as a journey of a young woman, making a choice to live her life and do the things she felt she had missed out on (while her daughter had gone to university). It was humorous at times, emotional at other times, but always thought provoking and heart warming at the same time .
I really liked the way it was written with an interesting cast of characters who were so well described.
What I most enjoyed was how realistic all the characters were, which made the book relatable and easy to read.
Working as a palliative care nurse, helping people at the end of their lives and as a single mother she led quite a simple life. But it wasn’t what she had planned and dreamed of as a young girl, which was revealed at a school reunion in a letter that had been put in a time capsule many years before.
This story started as a journey of a young woman, making a choice to live her life and do the things she felt she had missed out on (while her daughter had gone to university). It was humorous at times, emotional at other times, but always thought provoking and heart warming at the same time .
I really liked the way it was written with an interesting cast of characters who were so well described.
What I most enjoyed was how realistic all the characters were, which made the book relatable and easy to read.
June 19, 2026
When Beth was 17 she had a fling with a beautiful French boy Marc whilst on an exchange trip. When she returned to the Uk and before her A level exams she found out she was pregnant. It was too late to do anything but have the baby when she realised but didn't expect the school to ask her to leave and the rejection of former friends.
Twenty years later her daughter Maisie is leaving for university and Beth is an end of life palliative care nurse. Reluctantly she attends her school reunion after being pushed by her daughter and best friend. The classes future me letters that were left in a time capsule are unearthed and handed out.
Everything Beth had written in hers hasn't happened and she sets out to experience what she had thought at 17 would be the life she wanted.
Along the way she meets Jack and discovers that his sister is Cleo, her nemesis at school. Cleo has now matured and treats Beth like a human being.
A funny and sometime poignant book which kept me turning the pages.
Twenty years later her daughter Maisie is leaving for university and Beth is an end of life palliative care nurse. Reluctantly she attends her school reunion after being pushed by her daughter and best friend. The classes future me letters that were left in a time capsule are unearthed and handed out.
Everything Beth had written in hers hasn't happened and she sets out to experience what she had thought at 17 would be the life she wanted.
Along the way she meets Jack and discovers that his sister is Cleo, her nemesis at school. Cleo has now matured and treats Beth like a human being.
A funny and sometime poignant book which kept me turning the pages.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Beth is an amazing student with big plans for college and beyond. But she unexpectedly gets pregnant at seventeen with her daughter, Maisie, and her life plans change. Her story unfolds in The Life I Didn’t Plan by Charlotte Butterfield.
This book is charming, with characters who are lovely, quirky, and multifaceted. Without giving anything away, there are times within this story where you will think back to your younger self and wonder “what if…” At other times, you might think about what you wish for your older self. All these thoughts will come as Butterfield tells Beth’s and Maisie’s stories with love and humor.
In the end, Beth holds tight to the family she has and the new friends and family she finds, along with the things she learns about herself at the young age of thirty-seven.
Quite an enjoyable read!
Thank you to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
This book is charming, with characters who are lovely, quirky, and multifaceted. Without giving anything away, there are times within this story where you will think back to your younger self and wonder “what if…” At other times, you might think about what you wish for your older self. All these thoughts will come as Butterfield tells Beth’s and Maisie’s stories with love and humor.
In the end, Beth holds tight to the family she has and the new friends and family she finds, along with the things she learns about herself at the young age of thirty-seven.
Quite an enjoyable read!
Thank you to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another lovely title from this author.
I love how the characters are developed throughout this book, they are so wholesome, real and lovely.
Beth’s character really was a favourite. She just seemed so down to earth and will resonate with so many people.
All the characters grow throughout their own personal journeys and Beth’s accounts of her job really are an eye opener.
Beth’s relationship with her daughter is another lovely part to this book, of course they have their ups and downs but I think the dynamic between them was so well written.
So all in all a lovely heartfelt tale, of love, relationships, life choices and the ability to move on, whatever hand you are dealt. A reminder that people’s hopes and dreams can change, something we thought we wanted, may not actually hold the appeal we thought it would.
This one will have you laughing (with some great banter between the characters), crying but overall feeling the love between everyone.
I love how the characters are developed throughout this book, they are so wholesome, real and lovely.
Beth’s character really was a favourite. She just seemed so down to earth and will resonate with so many people.
All the characters grow throughout their own personal journeys and Beth’s accounts of her job really are an eye opener.
Beth’s relationship with her daughter is another lovely part to this book, of course they have their ups and downs but I think the dynamic between them was so well written.
So all in all a lovely heartfelt tale, of love, relationships, life choices and the ability to move on, whatever hand you are dealt. A reminder that people’s hopes and dreams can change, something we thought we wanted, may not actually hold the appeal we thought it would.
This one will have you laughing (with some great banter between the characters), crying but overall feeling the love between everyone.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK | Avon for allowing me to read an ARC of The Life I Didn’t Plan by Charlotte Butterfield in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely loved this book!
Beth was such a wonderful character, and I really admired her compassion and dedication as an end-of-life caregiver. It added so much depth to her story and made her incredibly easy to root for.
This was such a witty, heartfelt, and genuinely funny read. I laughed, smiled, and got a little emotional along the way. I also loved the message about not getting too caught up in the life you thought you'd have and instead appreciating the life you do have.
The relationships were another highlight for me. Whether it was family, friendship, or romance, every connection felt real and meaningful.
Warm, uplifting, funny, and full of heart—this was such an enjoyable read, and I finished it with a big smile on my face!
I absolutely loved this book!
Beth was such a wonderful character, and I really admired her compassion and dedication as an end-of-life caregiver. It added so much depth to her story and made her incredibly easy to root for.
This was such a witty, heartfelt, and genuinely funny read. I laughed, smiled, and got a little emotional along the way. I also loved the message about not getting too caught up in the life you thought you'd have and instead appreciating the life you do have.
The relationships were another highlight for me. Whether it was family, friendship, or romance, every connection felt real and meaningful.
Warm, uplifting, funny, and full of heart—this was such an enjoyable read, and I finished it with a big smile on my face!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sometimes you want to read slightly melodramatic books with lots of miscommunication and overinflated grand gestures. Then, sometimes books like "The Life I Didn't Plan" represent the complete antithesis and are just as well received for it.
Beth is 37, a hospice nurse and mother to a 19year old daughter. The 20 year anniversary of the school that kicked her out when they discovered she was pregnant looms and with it, Beth's need to question the dreams of her younger self.
This is a lovely book. The writing is self-aware enough to swerve away from saccharine and there is something reassuring about characters who don't ignite their whole lives over one misunderstanding. I was genuinely touched by the ending and thankful for a TBR that can do it all and allow for extremes.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Beth is 37, a hospice nurse and mother to a 19year old daughter. The 20 year anniversary of the school that kicked her out when they discovered she was pregnant looms and with it, Beth's need to question the dreams of her younger self.
This is a lovely book. The writing is self-aware enough to swerve away from saccharine and there is something reassuring about characters who don't ignite their whole lives over one misunderstanding. I was genuinely touched by the ending and thankful for a TBR that can do it all and allow for extremes.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2026
This was great read. I was moved to tears and laughter. I loved the banter between Beth and Jack and the frank but sometimes hilarious conversations between Beth and Grace.
I was captured from the start and loved how the whole story unravelled. The bond between Beth and her daughter Maisie was beautiful and I could see that the life Beth had worked hard to create for both of them was filled with love for her daughter. I was fascinated by her job and have so much respect for what palliative nurses do, Beth really cared about her patients and wanted nothing more than for their last hours to be peaceful and respectful.
A beautiful book from start to finish, with an easy reading flow. I would recommend to everyone.
I was captured from the start and loved how the whole story unravelled. The bond between Beth and her daughter Maisie was beautiful and I could see that the life Beth had worked hard to create for both of them was filled with love for her daughter. I was fascinated by her job and have so much respect for what palliative nurses do, Beth really cared about her patients and wanted nothing more than for their last hours to be peaceful and respectful.
A beautiful book from start to finish, with an easy reading flow. I would recommend to everyone.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Life I Didn’t Plan was an unexpected joy of a novel! It’s about the expectations we have for our lives and how those expectations can turn into a perception of disappointment when things don’t go the way we imagined. The story really leans into examining what truly makes us happy, and how actually seeing what’s right in front of us—rather than obsessing over what “should have been”—can be enough, and even better, leading to a path to happiness in the here and now. It was witty, laugh‑out‑loud funny, and genuinely heartwarming, and I just loved the characters so much. It has found family, a little closed-door romance, and self discovery. Chef’s kiss!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When your 19 year old daughter goes to university, empty nest hits hard. Always having been just the two of them. Unexpectedly pregnant after a school exchange prior to her a levels. Life choices had drastically changed, the university place withdrawn, school refusing to let the a level sat.
Working as a palliative nurse, helping families at the end of life care of their precious relatives. Working the night shift.
School reunion with letters to their 40 year old selves, nemesis and chaos.
Fun, friendship, laughter and love. A book that will make you smile and appreciate those you love. Enjoy I did
Working as a palliative nurse, helping families at the end of life care of their precious relatives. Working the night shift.
School reunion with letters to their 40 year old selves, nemesis and chaos.
Fun, friendship, laughter and love. A book that will make you smile and appreciate those you love. Enjoy I did
June 25, 2026
Beth's life is good, but it's not what she imagined when she was seventeen. When she gets the opportunity to change her life and experience some of the things she thought she wanted, she discovers unexpected truths about life and herself. I invested in Beth from the beginning. She is compassionate, resilient, and self-deprecating, and you want her to realise her true worth. The humorous moments are many, and like life, unexpected. There is sadness and confusion, too, but you always believe she will find her way through. I like the characterisation: the immersive emotions and the unexpectedly lovely romance.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
July 24, 2026
I had high hopes for The life I didn’t plan.
I was looking forward to seeing how Beth gets out of her funk and depression but the book just kept slogging on. Slowly moving like molasses. While traveling was mentioned at 1/2 way in, nothing.
I did not finish this book and stopped at 50 %.
I did however read the last chapter and it appears Beth traveled and made some new friends. That chapter flowed mug better than the first half of the book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
I was looking forward to seeing how Beth gets out of her funk and depression but the book just kept slogging on. Slowly moving like molasses. While traveling was mentioned at 1/2 way in, nothing.
I did not finish this book and stopped at 50 %.
I did however read the last chapter and it appears Beth traveled and made some new friends. That chapter flowed mug better than the first half of the book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
August 2, 2026
This is a surprisingly funny and light hearted read for one that deals with such serious issues. I haven't read anything from Charlotte Butterfield before but I'll definitely pick something by her next time! Beth was a great character - her life didn't go quite the way she planned but she made something wonderful from it anyway. I loved all the characters - they were strong and understandable. The storyline had some twists and stayed interesting but still quite emotional. It was lovely and I'd like to read a second in this series.
August 3, 2026
The decisions we make and where that may lead.
This is a surprising tale of a life not lived as originally planned. Throw in a school reunion and this single mum decides to live a little, thanks to a letter she wrote to herself back at school. But is what we thought we want as a teen anything like what we want as an adult?
For a book with such serious topics, it was delightfully funny in parts, so sweet in others.
You'll be thinking about your own life choices after reading this book... and maybe even questioning some of the paths you've taken and the reasons why.
This is a surprising tale of a life not lived as originally planned. Throw in a school reunion and this single mum decides to live a little, thanks to a letter she wrote to herself back at school. But is what we thought we want as a teen anything like what we want as an adult?
For a book with such serious topics, it was delightfully funny in parts, so sweet in others.
You'll be thinking about your own life choices after reading this book... and maybe even questioning some of the paths you've taken and the reasons why.
June 24, 2026
DNF at 45% - 2.5⭐️
I feel like the idea was good, but the formatting of the ARC I received was messed up and didn’t help with me actually enjoying the book. Even though I was really intrigued in Beth finding her way!
Also, based on the cover I thought it was going to be her traveling and finding herself after so many years as a single mom and so on, but I was almost at 50% and none of that had happened. (Even though it was talked about).
It was not the book for me.
I feel like the idea was good, but the formatting of the ARC I received was messed up and didn’t help with me actually enjoying the book. Even though I was really intrigued in Beth finding her way!
Also, based on the cover I thought it was going to be her traveling and finding herself after so many years as a single mom and so on, but I was almost at 50% and none of that had happened. (Even though it was talked about).
It was not the book for me.
July 27, 2026
I liked the premise of this book.
It’s about the reality of the life you envisioned, not ending up exactly how you envisioned it. That sometimes the unknown and unforeseen can still be good. It’s second chances and remaining hopeful even with things rerouting and going a different course than expected or intended.
Thank you to NetGalley and AvonBooksUK for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s about the reality of the life you envisioned, not ending up exactly how you envisioned it. That sometimes the unknown and unforeseen can still be good. It’s second chances and remaining hopeful even with things rerouting and going a different course than expected or intended.
Thank you to NetGalley and AvonBooksUK for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I don’t know what it is about this book, but it just worked. It’s a gentle book full of humour that is beautifully written. It follows the lives of real people without any additional drama that would make it feel unrealistic. The characters are really well written and you feel like you’ve known them for ages. I thoroughly enjoyed this.
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