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The Solo Honeymoon: A Brief, Beautiful True Love Story
The Honeymoon is not a book about grief. There is grief in it, a whole truckload of grief, but it will not offer advice. I'm twenty-eight, what do I know? Instead, it will be primarily the story of my six weeks in Europe on my honeymoon alone, told succinctly and in short chapters based around specific experiences - some emotionally harrowing, most uplifting or even funny - that helped me realize, even at my lowest, that people care, and life is full of moments to be cherished.
Both devastating and inspiring, The Honeymoon is a brilliant commercial non-fiction project, pitched as a non-fiction Nicholas Sparks, a tear-jerker of a heartbreaking love story
Both devastating and inspiring, The Honeymoon is a brilliant commercial non-fiction project, pitched as a non-fiction Nicholas Sparks, a tear-jerker of a heartbreaking love story
5 pages, Audible Audio
First published July 14, 2026
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February 22, 2026
After her fiancé’s sudden death, Laura sets off alone to discover what makes life worth living after tragic loss.
What worked:
The descriptions of the places she visits are beautifully vivid. Laura is a likeable narrator - even writing this review, I’m afraid to hurt her feelings. Several chapters near the end are powerfully written and genuinely moved me. Without getting too specific to avoid spoilers, I deeply related to her anger when her wedding day came and went, and I was especially inspired by her interaction with the woman from Toronto. Throughout the book, there was an overall touching message of the importance of family support as one endures life after loss.
What didn’t work for me:
I so wanted to love this book. I was drawn in by the pretty cover and inspirational title, and the idea of a solo honeymoon felt tragically romantic. However, I spent most of the reading experience wondering what the purpose of this book actually was.
Some of the quips and commentary mirror the voiceovers from the author’s TikToks, so if you’re familiar with her online story, parts can feel repetitive. At times, it felt less like a memoir and more like the story of how someone became TikTok famous. It’s endearing to read about her online community, but much of this content might have worked just as well staying there.
Laura seems to walk on eggshells when writing about her family and friends. She goes above and beyond to compliment and toast them directly in the pages. It sometimes feels like the book is written with their reactions in mind rather than the reader’s. As a result, it lacks the brutal honesty that makes memoirs compelling. Or perhaps she is simply too kind to say anything negative about the people in her life.
Laura and Devon share a quirky, somewhat nerdy love story. Both seem exceptionally nice. Unfortunately, two very nice, cookie-cutter people falling in love doesn’t always translate into a gripping narrative. I smiled for them, but I didn’t feel deeply invested in their relationship. The one moment of betrayal and conflict is glossed over, lacking detail and emotional weight. I kept waiting to feel something - but aside from the final stretch (around the last 15%), I mostly felt disengaged. Even the honeymoon explorations felt anticlimactic.
This story clearly means a great deal to Laura, and I respect the vulnerability it took to share it. There are moments of genuine beauty here, but they aren’t enough to carry the whole. For a story rooted in devastating loss and self-discovery, I expected to feel more. Instead, I finished it wondering why it needed to be a book at all. Two stars.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC.
What worked:
The descriptions of the places she visits are beautifully vivid. Laura is a likeable narrator - even writing this review, I’m afraid to hurt her feelings. Several chapters near the end are powerfully written and genuinely moved me. Without getting too specific to avoid spoilers, I deeply related to her anger when her wedding day came and went, and I was especially inspired by her interaction with the woman from Toronto. Throughout the book, there was an overall touching message of the importance of family support as one endures life after loss.
What didn’t work for me:
I so wanted to love this book. I was drawn in by the pretty cover and inspirational title, and the idea of a solo honeymoon felt tragically romantic. However, I spent most of the reading experience wondering what the purpose of this book actually was.
Some of the quips and commentary mirror the voiceovers from the author’s TikToks, so if you’re familiar with her online story, parts can feel repetitive. At times, it felt less like a memoir and more like the story of how someone became TikTok famous. It’s endearing to read about her online community, but much of this content might have worked just as well staying there.
Laura seems to walk on eggshells when writing about her family and friends. She goes above and beyond to compliment and toast them directly in the pages. It sometimes feels like the book is written with their reactions in mind rather than the reader’s. As a result, it lacks the brutal honesty that makes memoirs compelling. Or perhaps she is simply too kind to say anything negative about the people in her life.
Laura and Devon share a quirky, somewhat nerdy love story. Both seem exceptionally nice. Unfortunately, two very nice, cookie-cutter people falling in love doesn’t always translate into a gripping narrative. I smiled for them, but I didn’t feel deeply invested in their relationship. The one moment of betrayal and conflict is glossed over, lacking detail and emotional weight. I kept waiting to feel something - but aside from the final stretch (around the last 15%), I mostly felt disengaged. Even the honeymoon explorations felt anticlimactic.
This story clearly means a great deal to Laura, and I respect the vulnerability it took to share it. There are moments of genuine beauty here, but they aren’t enough to carry the whole. For a story rooted in devastating loss and self-discovery, I expected to feel more. Instead, I finished it wondering why it needed to be a book at all. Two stars.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC.
July 16, 2026
When forever became goodbye...
Where do I even begin?
Laura, I am so incredibly proud of you for writing this book. I know putting these words on paper couldn't have been easy, but you did it. It takes so much courage to share a story that comes from such a deep place of love and loss. I know Devon would be beyond proud of you.
This book captures the joy of loving someone so deeply, while also honoring the heartbreak of missing them. It's a reminder that even after someone is gone, their love and the memories they leave behind never fade.
I had the pleasure of working across from Devon when he was at Curtis Dawe, and we instantly clicked. Every time I'd glance out his office window from my desk, he'd grin and say, "What are you looking at, Shawn?" I'd always reply, "Nothing, Larry." (That was his nickname—and it's still saved that way in my phone to this day.)
Devon was one of the most genuine people I've ever met. He cared deeply about everyone around him and always had a story that could make you laugh, no matter what kind of day you were having.
He was truly a joy to be around, and his absence is still felt by so many. He is deeply loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten. ❤️
Where do I even begin?
Laura, I am so incredibly proud of you for writing this book. I know putting these words on paper couldn't have been easy, but you did it. It takes so much courage to share a story that comes from such a deep place of love and loss. I know Devon would be beyond proud of you.
This book captures the joy of loving someone so deeply, while also honoring the heartbreak of missing them. It's a reminder that even after someone is gone, their love and the memories they leave behind never fade.
I had the pleasure of working across from Devon when he was at Curtis Dawe, and we instantly clicked. Every time I'd glance out his office window from my desk, he'd grin and say, "What are you looking at, Shawn?" I'd always reply, "Nothing, Larry." (That was his nickname—and it's still saved that way in my phone to this day.)
Devon was one of the most genuine people I've ever met. He cared deeply about everyone around him and always had a story that could make you laugh, no matter what kind of day you were having.
He was truly a joy to be around, and his absence is still felt by so many. He is deeply loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten. ❤️
July 15, 2026
Im so beyond proud of Laura. This book was such a perfect depiction of Dev and such a vulnerable explanation of grief. UGH I’m just speechless!!!!! I love their love.
August 14, 2026
I credit Murphy in her honesty, heartbreak, and growth throughout the grieving process. To tragically lose the love of your life so young, right on the cusp of starting a very exciting future together, is a pain that I could never begin to fathom. There were some moments in this book that were very raw, like the newfound dichotomy of Murphy’s life surrounded by friends having their first babies while she was burying her husband. It’s something no individual should ever have to experience.
I admittedly faced some inner turmoil when determining how to review The Solo Honeymoon. I know many who abide by a personal belief that nonfiction stories, specifically those highlighting somebody’s most vulnerable experiences in life, should not be given a star rating. After all, who are we to judge from such a distance?
This said, while I do feel bad, I morally think it is important to maintain an unwavering set of standards and expectations across all of the works I read. And while I do sympathize with Murphy, this book was indisputable proof that storytelling creators on social media are not guaranteed to translate well on paper. The Solo Honeymoon was just genuinely not a well-written book in any shape, form, or fashion.
Murphy evenly breaks the story up between her life with Devon and her life without him, relying on flashbacks and a parallel timeline leading up to his death. In the gentlest way I can say this, when you remove the tragedy that ended her fiancé’s short life, their love story is incredibly pedestrian and not unique in any sense. They met at work. They went on dates. They met each other’s families and friends. He was outgoing and liked running and taking naps. They went on a beach vacation once even though he wasn’t a big fan of the beach. They had two dogs. They bought a house together.
I’m not saying pedestrian stories aren’t worth coverage or attention… in fact, I believe quite the opposite. But I do think for the everyday to resonate, the writing has to be deep and rich. You need to be able to make these moments feel like poetry to evoke emotion from your reader. The issue is Murphy (and her ghostwriter), rarely prioritized quality prose, opting instead for line after line of painfully literal narration.
“I got off my plane and then I went to my hotel. Then I posted a TikTok video. Then I walked around the city. Then I went to a bookstore and saw some books I like. Then I felt sad. Then my dad came to visit me. My dad is a judge and he likes to hunt. We went to the beach. I started getting offers for free stuff on social media. Did you know you could film a TikTok video directly in the app? It broke my heart the Devon wasn’t there. I am gluten free.”
This writing style does not do the pain and vulnerability Murphy faced any favors, making a really heartbreaking grief experience feel more akin to forced small talk with a vague acquaintance at a mutual friend’s birthday dinner. Hate to say it, but I am here for your overarching journey, not every middling detail about you, your family/friends, and the history of Canada. Like girl, I’m going to be real with you… I wholeheartedly could not care less that you are a gluten free “Swiftie”, and you don’t need to remind us every other page.
Between the moments of gratuitous unnecessary information, convoluted and poorly written sentences, and painfully literal narration, I genuinely had a hard time getting through My Solo Honeymoon.
I admittedly faced some inner turmoil when determining how to review The Solo Honeymoon. I know many who abide by a personal belief that nonfiction stories, specifically those highlighting somebody’s most vulnerable experiences in life, should not be given a star rating. After all, who are we to judge from such a distance?
This said, while I do feel bad, I morally think it is important to maintain an unwavering set of standards and expectations across all of the works I read. And while I do sympathize with Murphy, this book was indisputable proof that storytelling creators on social media are not guaranteed to translate well on paper. The Solo Honeymoon was just genuinely not a well-written book in any shape, form, or fashion.
Murphy evenly breaks the story up between her life with Devon and her life without him, relying on flashbacks and a parallel timeline leading up to his death. In the gentlest way I can say this, when you remove the tragedy that ended her fiancé’s short life, their love story is incredibly pedestrian and not unique in any sense. They met at work. They went on dates. They met each other’s families and friends. He was outgoing and liked running and taking naps. They went on a beach vacation once even though he wasn’t a big fan of the beach. They had two dogs. They bought a house together.
I’m not saying pedestrian stories aren’t worth coverage or attention… in fact, I believe quite the opposite. But I do think for the everyday to resonate, the writing has to be deep and rich. You need to be able to make these moments feel like poetry to evoke emotion from your reader. The issue is Murphy (and her ghostwriter), rarely prioritized quality prose, opting instead for line after line of painfully literal narration.
“I got off my plane and then I went to my hotel. Then I posted a TikTok video. Then I walked around the city. Then I went to a bookstore and saw some books I like. Then I felt sad. Then my dad came to visit me. My dad is a judge and he likes to hunt. We went to the beach. I started getting offers for free stuff on social media. Did you know you could film a TikTok video directly in the app? It broke my heart the Devon wasn’t there. I am gluten free.”
This writing style does not do the pain and vulnerability Murphy faced any favors, making a really heartbreaking grief experience feel more akin to forced small talk with a vague acquaintance at a mutual friend’s birthday dinner. Hate to say it, but I am here for your overarching journey, not every middling detail about you, your family/friends, and the history of Canada. Like girl, I’m going to be real with you… I wholeheartedly could not care less that you are a gluten free “Swiftie”, and you don’t need to remind us every other page.
Between the moments of gratuitous unnecessary information, convoluted and poorly written sentences, and painfully literal narration, I genuinely had a hard time getting through My Solo Honeymoon.
August 1, 2026
I don’t know where to begin. I honestly just want to thank Laura for writing this book and letting us into something so personal. It felt like such a privilege to read. It was beautifully written and captured Dev so perfectly.
I always admired how much Devon loved Laura. He truly wore his heart on his sleeve and made it so obvious to everyone around him. But reading this book and getting to see how much Laura loved him back.. wow. What they shared was so special, and you can feel that on every single page.
Don’t get me wrong, this book is absolutely heartbreaking, because losing Devon is heartbreaking. But somehow, through all the tears, I found myself smiling just as much. Laughing at Devon’s jokes, his nicknames for everyone and all the little moments they shared made it feel like he was right there. I can hear him now saying “sandwiches for days!” when he was given turkey dinner leftovers.
So thank you, little old Laura Murphy from Corner Brook, Newfoundland (anything but the most regular woman!!) for sharing your heart with all of us. Devon would be so unbelievably proud of you, and I think so many of us are grateful that you found the strength to tell yours and Dev’s story. UGH love you both!
I always admired how much Devon loved Laura. He truly wore his heart on his sleeve and made it so obvious to everyone around him. But reading this book and getting to see how much Laura loved him back.. wow. What they shared was so special, and you can feel that on every single page.
Don’t get me wrong, this book is absolutely heartbreaking, because losing Devon is heartbreaking. But somehow, through all the tears, I found myself smiling just as much. Laughing at Devon’s jokes, his nicknames for everyone and all the little moments they shared made it feel like he was right there. I can hear him now saying “sandwiches for days!” when he was given turkey dinner leftovers.
So thank you, little old Laura Murphy from Corner Brook, Newfoundland (anything but the most regular woman!!) for sharing your heart with all of us. Devon would be so unbelievably proud of you, and I think so many of us are grateful that you found the strength to tell yours and Dev’s story. UGH love you both!
August 13, 2026
Laura's fiancé, Devon, dies in her arms a month before their wedding. To deal with her grief, she goes on their honeymoon solo.
Traveling through Europe without Devon is obviously painful, but it also gives her space to process what happened and slowly reconnect with herself while meeting strangers, spending time with Devon's family and - as someone who's not into social media - even making a few Tiktoks along the way to document her journey that go viral.
There are a few things that felt too quickly skirted over, as well as a lot of emphasis on the author bringing up how her family and friends were likely to read it. It felt like she was scared of what they might think, so she was being very obviously careful with her words, which took me out of the story.
However, healing is not linear, nor is it something that eventually ends one day, which I liked that the author acknowledged. It's all consuming and never ending, just like Laura's love for Devon. I recommend this book for those who want a quick, emotional, nonfiction read.
Thank you Penguin Random House Canada for the ARC :)
Traveling through Europe without Devon is obviously painful, but it also gives her space to process what happened and slowly reconnect with herself while meeting strangers, spending time with Devon's family and - as someone who's not into social media - even making a few Tiktoks along the way to document her journey that go viral.
There are a few things that felt too quickly skirted over, as well as a lot of emphasis on the author bringing up how her family and friends were likely to read it. It felt like she was scared of what they might think, so she was being very obviously careful with her words, which took me out of the story.
However, healing is not linear, nor is it something that eventually ends one day, which I liked that the author acknowledged. It's all consuming and never ending, just like Laura's love for Devon. I recommend this book for those who want a quick, emotional, nonfiction read.
Thank you Penguin Random House Canada for the ARC :)
August 10, 2026
so beautiful and so heartbreaking
no notes 💚
no notes 💚
July 15, 2026
Wow I have not binged a book this fast in a long time. Real and raw and beautiful and heart breaking. Laura is clearly an incredibly strong woman
July 23, 2026
I hadn’t heard of Laura’s tiktoks - I saw the cover at Indigo and the logline captured me. I wasn’t prepared to become so in love with their love story I read it in one sitting.
A beautiful reminder that all we truly have in this life is time and we hope to spend as much of it as we can with those we love 💕
A beautiful reminder that all we truly have in this life is time and we hope to spend as much of it as we can with those we love 💕
July 14, 2026
⭐️4.5
“The hardest part about grief, is the guilt and the feeling that you are forgetting them if you are living your life”.
Thank you Random House Canada for the gifted ARC. I will admit, when I first saw this book, I judged it by its cover and title. I thought it was a cheesy romance about someone who breaks up with their fiancé, decides to go on the honeymoon anyway, and finds true love. But I was so, so wrong. This is a heartbreaking true story of how the author decided to pick herself up after an unexpected and unimaginable tragedy, to go on her honeymoon by herself, to see if life was still worth living. I really admire Laura Murphy for her courage to write this memoir.
The narration is raw and heartfelt. You can feel the author’s pain in her words. As someone who is currently working through grief, this felt even more emotional and difficult to read. A lot of things she said in the book ring true. I love how the author did not just focus on the loss of her beloved fiancé but really tells us about Devon; who he was as a person, what his likes and dislikes were, his odd habits and how they were both perfect for each other. She takes us through some of her favourite memories of their time together. At its core, this is not just a memoir about tragedy, but also a celebration of a life.
If you like memoirs and can handle raw, emotional content, give this one a read. It is truly inspirational. In the end, I feel like I also knew Devon.
“The hardest part about grief, is the guilt and the feeling that you are forgetting them if you are living your life”.
Thank you Random House Canada for the gifted ARC. I will admit, when I first saw this book, I judged it by its cover and title. I thought it was a cheesy romance about someone who breaks up with their fiancé, decides to go on the honeymoon anyway, and finds true love. But I was so, so wrong. This is a heartbreaking true story of how the author decided to pick herself up after an unexpected and unimaginable tragedy, to go on her honeymoon by herself, to see if life was still worth living. I really admire Laura Murphy for her courage to write this memoir.
The narration is raw and heartfelt. You can feel the author’s pain in her words. As someone who is currently working through grief, this felt even more emotional and difficult to read. A lot of things she said in the book ring true. I love how the author did not just focus on the loss of her beloved fiancé but really tells us about Devon; who he was as a person, what his likes and dislikes were, his odd habits and how they were both perfect for each other. She takes us through some of her favourite memories of their time together. At its core, this is not just a memoir about tragedy, but also a celebration of a life.
If you like memoirs and can handle raw, emotional content, give this one a read. It is truly inspirational. In the end, I feel like I also knew Devon.
July 16, 2026
I don't have TikTok/social media so I didn't know of the author or her story when I started this book. It's definitely an emotional audiobook.
August 23, 2026
Incredible and devastating
2026
July 14, 2026There are some books that simply cannot be rated, and The Solo Honeymoon is one of them. How do you put a number on love, grief, memories, and the courage to keep living after unimaginable loss? I read the blurb, but nothing could have prepared me for what I experienced. This didn’t feel like a memoir. It felt like Laura was sitting beside me, sharing her heart. Through her words, I came to know Devon so deeply that I mourned someone I’d never met. I adored the openness of their family and the quiet reminder that sometimes love is simply being there for someone through grief. The beautiful descriptions of Atlantic Canada, London, Ireland, Bath, France, and Italy made me feel like I was travelling alongside Laura, and I even added a few places to my own travel list. More than anything, this memoir is a celebration of Devon’s life, Laura’s love, and the strength it takes to choose life again. Thank you, Laura, for sharing something so deeply personal with the world. And if you decide to read this book, do it with care, an open heart, and one small piece of advice: don’t check Laura’s TikTok until you’ve finished. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
July 23, 2026
Listened to the audiobook. Narration was not good. I’m sorry but this book was so juvenile and written so poorly. I understand the tragedy of losing someone you love. I lost my spouse suddenly after 35 years of a wonderful marriage, but this story was truly told like a teenager wrote it. I loved him. He loved me back. The sex was good. He complimented me on my coat. No no no no no. I think the author should have sat with her grief and loss and feelings for several more years before putting it down on papers so she could sound more composed and genuine. And mature.
July 8, 2026
I was deeply moved by Laura Murphy's story. I appreciated her honesty and vulnerability as she shared not only what happened, but also her thoughts, emotions, and the most difficult parts of her journey. She didn't only show the beautiful moments, she also let us see the pain, the uncertainty, and the grief. She made me feel so many emotions while telling the story of a beautiful love that ended far too soon.
Part of the reason this book resonated so deeply with me is that I have a fiancé myself. I found myself relating to Laura in many ways, her personality, her outlook on life, and even her interests. It made her story feel even more personal. I also found her incredibly brave and inspiring for choosing to take the honeymoon on her own and for sharing such an intimate part of her life with readers.
It's difficult to review a book based on someone's real-life experience because who are we to judge another person's story? What I can say is that this book is both inspiring and thought-provoking. It reminds us that life is precious and meant to be lived. We shouldn't constantly postpone the things that matter most or take our loved ones for granted. Instead, we should try to embrace the present moment, appreciate the little things, be grateful for the people who support us, and make time for the experiences that bring us joy.
Part of the reason this book resonated so deeply with me is that I have a fiancé myself. I found myself relating to Laura in many ways, her personality, her outlook on life, and even her interests. It made her story feel even more personal. I also found her incredibly brave and inspiring for choosing to take the honeymoon on her own and for sharing such an intimate part of her life with readers.
It's difficult to review a book based on someone's real-life experience because who are we to judge another person's story? What I can say is that this book is both inspiring and thought-provoking. It reminds us that life is precious and meant to be lived. We shouldn't constantly postpone the things that matter most or take our loved ones for granted. Instead, we should try to embrace the present moment, appreciate the little things, be grateful for the people who support us, and make time for the experiences that bring us joy.
July 20, 2026
Its so hard to put a number on someone's personal experience, espically when it is of this nature.
My best friend experienced a similar tragedy, she lost her person unexpectedly. That was 5 years ago and while she seems to be doing better, there are days when she still struggles. Reading Laura's book helped me to better understand what she is and has gone through. Though I know I will never be able to relate, it brought me some sort of peace? If you can call it that.
Laura did what many would never be able to do. Trying to find beauty, purpose and so much more on her darkest of days.
May we all experience a love such as this. Laura, thank you for writing this book and for being vulnerable enough to share some of your darkest days with us.
My best friend experienced a similar tragedy, she lost her person unexpectedly. That was 5 years ago and while she seems to be doing better, there are days when she still struggles. Reading Laura's book helped me to better understand what she is and has gone through. Though I know I will never be able to relate, it brought me some sort of peace? If you can call it that.
Laura did what many would never be able to do. Trying to find beauty, purpose and so much more on her darkest of days.
May we all experience a love such as this. Laura, thank you for writing this book and for being vulnerable enough to share some of your darkest days with us.
July 29, 2026
This was raw, beautiful, devastating, and somehow was still sprinkled with moments of humour. Whether Laura believes it or not, she’s funny (and one hell of a storyteller).
The first thing I saw was the chapter starting with a picture of glasses, just like the shape of Devon’s. My heart was swelling before I even read a single word.
Obviously when you know the people, you can put a voice and mannerisms to the conversations being had. It’s true - Dev had nicknames for everyone, was always enthused, and made everyone feel welcome and wanted. The whole book made me smile and cut through my heart at the same time.
Seeing Laura say she finally felt maybe a little brave made me feel proud. The proposal story made me roar with laughter. And I cried a lot. This was reaaaaal special to read - Laura thank you for sharing with us 💘
The first thing I saw was the chapter starting with a picture of glasses, just like the shape of Devon’s. My heart was swelling before I even read a single word.
Obviously when you know the people, you can put a voice and mannerisms to the conversations being had. It’s true - Dev had nicknames for everyone, was always enthused, and made everyone feel welcome and wanted. The whole book made me smile and cut through my heart at the same time.
Seeing Laura say she finally felt maybe a little brave made me feel proud. The proposal story made me roar with laughter. And I cried a lot. This was reaaaaal special to read - Laura thank you for sharing with us 💘
August 20, 2026
This really did me in here this evening. Two years ago, 2024, was the year from hell for me - I lost doggo, my nan, and a friend from university in the span of a few weeks, plus a heap of other crushing losses through the year. I remember hearing about Laura and Devon’s story at the time (NL is a socially small place after all, so everyone knows everyone’s news) and it broke my already broken heart, relating to it all in my own way. Now, reading this book about Laura’s journey and her ode to Devon has got me thinking about, and looking at, my own grief from a different vantage. What a deeply beautiful, enduring love story it is (“i love you still” indeed) ♥️ Do yourself the immense honour of reading this book.
August 16, 2026
This is a very sad memoir about a tragic loss. The audiobook is read with great emotion by the author. I enjoyed hearing about the authors, bravery and ability to believe in herself while on this solo honeymoon adventure.
Quotes- “overwhelmed was my default setting.”
“ ‘Not many people get the privilege of experiencing a loss this great.’ I didn’t like that at first, and I’m still not sure I agree. This loss is not a privilege.”
Quotes- “overwhelmed was my default setting.”
“ ‘Not many people get the privilege of experiencing a loss this great.’ I didn’t like that at first, and I’m still not sure I agree. This loss is not a privilege.”
August 5, 2026
Laura’s fiancé died unexpectedly prior to their wedding and my heart breaks for her for all of the pain and suffering she has endured. Writing this must have been so difficult and I hope it was cathartic for her to put all of her feelings and experiences in writing. I admire her courage to embark on a solo honeymoon and wish her all the best in the future.
July 19, 2026
Sweet love story. I followed Laura’s journey a little as I live in NL and know Devon’s family a little as well. I think it is so strong of her to write about her journey….everyone deals with life differently….
August 7, 2026
I remember coming across Laura's first tiktok she describes through this book, I always felt a deep connection and sadness but also, hope for her and the love she experienced. I am so glad she wrote this book and shared a true piece of love and grief: what life is.
July 26, 2026
heartbreakingly beautiful
Read
August 7, 2026So proud of you Laura 🤍
September 3, 2026
3 starts but also i cried multiple times
September 6, 2026
Devastating, raw, hopeful, and a great reminder to keep your heart and community open, no matter how painful.
June 25, 2026
I really dislike rating memoirs because they are personal experiences to the author, and who am I to judge their life and their experiences? But for the purpose of rating and reviewing for the NetGalley Arc I received, I’m rating this 3 stars. To start, I have to give so much love and heart to the author. It is my biggest fear to lose my husband and I can’t even fathom what life would look like without him. I feel so much for the author and wish her all the best. This was such an honest and raw memoir, and one that has so much vulnerability and inspiration behind it. But the inspiration is for who? What I struggle with, even though this was beautiful in its own right, is what I was supposed to gain from reading this. Maybe this was another way for the author to process her grief out loud with the readers. And I do see the appeal to those who have suffered from grief, and in this, maybe finding solidarity or hope when the world seems dark after loss. And while I’ve suffered from great loss in the last few years, there wasn’t much that I gained from this particular account, besides the privilege of getting to know Devon and what a great and whole presence he was in Laura’s life. I say this with great gentleness because I DO feel this could shed some light for some who are in the midst of grief. It was just my personal experience that I didn’t gain much from this myself. I want to thank the author for sharing her story and for being vulnerable with readers in the midst of this tragedy. I wish her all the best and hope this will shed some light and inspiration for many who pick this up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 19, 2026
Initially, I had a hard time connecting with the author, and I’m sure part of that comes from a generational gap. We all process grief differently, but people in my demographic tend to handle it in more private, interpersonal ways. When we’re sad, happy, or simply need connection, we call, text, or email close friends and family. We meet up, talk, cry, hug, and keep talking. I would never share those emotions on social media for the entire world to see.
That said, I genuinely admire the courage it took to go on a Solo Honeymoon and to share that experience so openly. And I truly wish her the strength to hang in there, keep traveling, and continue creating new memories.
That said, I genuinely admire the courage it took to go on a Solo Honeymoon and to share that experience so openly. And I truly wish her the strength to hang in there, keep traveling, and continue creating new memories.
August 21, 2026
Heart breaking story, no doubt about that.
Horrendous writing. She is not an author and should get someone to edit her writing or stick to social media.
Horrendous writing. She is not an author and should get someone to edit her writing or stick to social media.
August 4, 2026
Author Laura Murphy's fiancé, Devon O'Grady, died in her arms just one month before their wedding was supposed to take place. "The Solo Honeymoon," is her tribute to him, to their love, and to the trip she took to Europe, the one she had planned to take with him. I love a good memoir, and Murphy, who is quite young, did a good job with hers, sharing painful, raw, embarrassing, and heartbreaking aspects of her courtship with Devon, and her life in the year after his death.
The pros- the memoir had to be cathartic for Laura, and most likely comforted, and gave hope to others in a similar position. She and Devon were a beautiful couple, looks wise, who met when she started an internship shortly after finishing law firm. In Canada, where they lived, new attorney's have to a year long internship before they can be fully qualified attorneys. He was a few years older, and beloved by all with whom he worked, giving all the other employees funny nicknames. He seemed to adore Laura from the start, enjoyed her family, as she loved his. Their relationship took off from the start, was very intense, and she felt she loved him more than she could ever have imagined. Where I had some doubts were when she learned he had betrayed her. She did not go into great detail, but she learned of this betrayal when looking at his phone. he did not deny it. She forgave him, and that is where I felt her youthful naivety came into play. She was only in her twenties, and had not had the most worldly life living in rural Canada. My thoughts were that if he was a cheater before they even got married, I would never trust him, and from the perspective of many more decades of life than she has lived, think that if he did this when they were still in the googly eyed stage, why would she think that down the road, when real life would take the sparkle away, he would not do so again? My feelings for him changed at that point, and I was less convinced that they would have gone the distance over a lifetime. He claimed he had person issues, insecurities that led him to do what he did. To me, again, with the wisdom of "old age" this was a red flag that would have had me fleeing. A smart, pretty, well educated young woman in her 20s does not have to settle for that. I would say the same thing to my daughters, one of who is about her age, and the other within a year of two of her age. Too young to be ok with this!
Laura's travels were interesting, but more so was the time she spent with those who love her and have supported her through her crushing heartbreak. Friends, her family, Devon's family, and strangers she met along the way. I would have liked her to address how she feels about her future. It is unrealistic to believe she will never love again, will not have a more mature love, and equally intense love, hopefully without any betrayal, and one that will heal her broken heart, especially considering her age. She was around 27 when this happened. I had not heard of her until the book entered my radar, but she started with a TikToks account where she talked about her tragic loss, and plan to go on her honeymoon, alone (though she really was not alone at all which was not what I expected). She had a huge number of followers, but at some point, she decided writing her memoir would be the thing to really help her to express her thoughts and feelings. I want a follow up, to know how she is doing since the publication of the memoir and want to know her plans, career wise. She did say she did not want to go back to the firm where they both worked, as that would be too painful. What is she doing now?
It was not until 3/4 of the way through the memoir that she tells us how Devon died. She tells us from the start that he died in her arms, and she felt guilty for not telling him she loved him, but rather to "Keep breathing. You will be fine," (or something to that effect).
This was a 4 star read for me, as there were some things I felt were missing, and because I think she was turning her late fiancé into a saint, and he was never that. He was fun, loving, bright, and wanted to marry her, but he was not, in my opinion, all that she claimed he was. I am a big believer in recognizing red flags, and no matter how much it hurts, believing those flags, and running! I hope Laura is continuing to heal. Loss is profound no matter what, and some of her pain will always be inside her, will make her grow, and feel compassion for all who grieve.
PS: I absolutely was sickened by the hunting for moose her family did, and her descriptions of these dead creatures, and the meat they took home to eat. As a vegan, the descriptions were just over the top, and not needed. It made me dislike her a bit.
The pros- the memoir had to be cathartic for Laura, and most likely comforted, and gave hope to others in a similar position. She and Devon were a beautiful couple, looks wise, who met when she started an internship shortly after finishing law firm. In Canada, where they lived, new attorney's have to a year long internship before they can be fully qualified attorneys. He was a few years older, and beloved by all with whom he worked, giving all the other employees funny nicknames. He seemed to adore Laura from the start, enjoyed her family, as she loved his. Their relationship took off from the start, was very intense, and she felt she loved him more than she could ever have imagined. Where I had some doubts were when she learned he had betrayed her. She did not go into great detail, but she learned of this betrayal when looking at his phone. he did not deny it. She forgave him, and that is where I felt her youthful naivety came into play. She was only in her twenties, and had not had the most worldly life living in rural Canada. My thoughts were that if he was a cheater before they even got married, I would never trust him, and from the perspective of many more decades of life than she has lived, think that if he did this when they were still in the googly eyed stage, why would she think that down the road, when real life would take the sparkle away, he would not do so again? My feelings for him changed at that point, and I was less convinced that they would have gone the distance over a lifetime. He claimed he had person issues, insecurities that led him to do what he did. To me, again, with the wisdom of "old age" this was a red flag that would have had me fleeing. A smart, pretty, well educated young woman in her 20s does not have to settle for that. I would say the same thing to my daughters, one of who is about her age, and the other within a year of two of her age. Too young to be ok with this!
Laura's travels were interesting, but more so was the time she spent with those who love her and have supported her through her crushing heartbreak. Friends, her family, Devon's family, and strangers she met along the way. I would have liked her to address how she feels about her future. It is unrealistic to believe she will never love again, will not have a more mature love, and equally intense love, hopefully without any betrayal, and one that will heal her broken heart, especially considering her age. She was around 27 when this happened. I had not heard of her until the book entered my radar, but she started with a TikToks account where she talked about her tragic loss, and plan to go on her honeymoon, alone (though she really was not alone at all which was not what I expected). She had a huge number of followers, but at some point, she decided writing her memoir would be the thing to really help her to express her thoughts and feelings. I want a follow up, to know how she is doing since the publication of the memoir and want to know her plans, career wise. She did say she did not want to go back to the firm where they both worked, as that would be too painful. What is she doing now?
It was not until 3/4 of the way through the memoir that she tells us how Devon died. She tells us from the start that he died in her arms, and she felt guilty for not telling him she loved him, but rather to "Keep breathing. You will be fine," (or something to that effect).
This was a 4 star read for me, as there were some things I felt were missing, and because I think she was turning her late fiancé into a saint, and he was never that. He was fun, loving, bright, and wanted to marry her, but he was not, in my opinion, all that she claimed he was. I am a big believer in recognizing red flags, and no matter how much it hurts, believing those flags, and running! I hope Laura is continuing to heal. Loss is profound no matter what, and some of her pain will always be inside her, will make her grow, and feel compassion for all who grieve.
PS: I absolutely was sickened by the hunting for moose her family did, and her descriptions of these dead creatures, and the meat they took home to eat. As a vegan, the descriptions were just over the top, and not needed. It made me dislike her a bit.
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