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Dear Life
Four lives. Four stories. Four sets of letters. Four brave souls in need of guidance while facing life's greatest challenges.
The anonymously published Dear Life program is designed to help them step outside of their comfort zones, face their obstacles, and relinquish their demons...and prove their existence.
With their lives teetering between wanting more and losing it all, all four souls dive into the program as a New Year’s resolution, sending them on a crazy, life-altering journey.
Dear Life,
Please be kind.
Yours truly, Hollyn, Jace, Daisy, and Carter.
The anonymously published Dear Life program is designed to help them step outside of their comfort zones, face their obstacles, and relinquish their demons...and prove their existence.
With their lives teetering between wanting more and losing it all, all four souls dive into the program as a New Year’s resolution, sending them on a crazy, life-altering journey.
Dear Life,
Please be kind.
Yours truly, Hollyn, Jace, Daisy, and Carter.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2017
1344 people are currently reading
6436 people want to read
About the author
Meghan Quinn
126 books48k followersLike me on FB: https://www.facebook.com/meghanquinna...
When I was in high school I occasionally read books but was consumed by other teenage things so I didn't take the time to appreciate a good book on a cloudy day, wrapped up in a blanket on the couch. It wasn't until I received a Kindle for Christmas one year that my world completely flipped upside down. When looking for books I came across the Contemporary Romance genre and was sold and I haven't turned back since.
You can either find my head buried in my Kindle, listening to inspiring heart ripping music or typing away on the computer twisting and turning the lives of my characters while driving my readers crazy with anticipation.
I currently reside in beautiful Colorado Springs where the sun is always shining and there is a trail waiting to be hiked on every corner. I share a lovely and warm home with the love of my life and my five, four-legged children.
When I was in high school I occasionally read books but was consumed by other teenage things so I didn't take the time to appreciate a good book on a cloudy day, wrapped up in a blanket on the couch. It wasn't until I received a Kindle for Christmas one year that my world completely flipped upside down. When looking for books I came across the Contemporary Romance genre and was sold and I haven't turned back since.
You can either find my head buried in my Kindle, listening to inspiring heart ripping music or typing away on the computer twisting and turning the lives of my characters while driving my readers crazy with anticipation.
I currently reside in beautiful Colorado Springs where the sun is always shining and there is a trail waiting to be hiked on every corner. I share a lovely and warm home with the love of my life and my five, four-legged children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 759 reviews
October 10, 2017
5 stars!!!
Dear Life was my first book of the year, and talk about starting 2017 with a bang. This book was epic. It was a truly stunning and beautiful story about four separate people coming together for different reasons. Some have suffered loss, some are looking to be found, either way, they all need each other more than they’ll ever know. This is a story of healing, of letting go, and of people needing other people. It has so much truth, heart and it’s one of those stories that will stay with you.
All four of the characters in this book were so different. All of them were experiencing something big in their life. Hollyn and Jace both were dealing with a big loss. Daisy is looking to find herself and who she really is. Carter, well, Carter is something else all together, but I found myself loving all four of them. I wanted to give them all huge hugs and tell them everything was going to be okay. I loved them all for different reasons, though I have to say Daisy and Jace were probably my favorites. I want to talk about everything their going through and I would love to go on about their journeys, but you’ll want to discover them all on your own. Trust me on that.
Dear Life is a story that is hard to read at times, but it’s one of those books that makes you feel like you have a purpose. It gives you hope. It reminds you that even when you’re going through something hard, you can overcome it. Sometimes you just need a little help and support. The letter the author wrote at the end of the book touched me so much. Between that letter, and all the parts of the book that were Jace’s, I was a crying mess for a lot of this book. But then I had Daisy that always made me smile. It was a great balance. Grief, hope, change, friendship, and finding your purpose. This is a book everyone needs to read. It’s exceptional. A 5 star favorite for me!
Dear Life was my first book of the year, and talk about starting 2017 with a bang. This book was epic. It was a truly stunning and beautiful story about four separate people coming together for different reasons. Some have suffered loss, some are looking to be found, either way, they all need each other more than they’ll ever know. This is a story of healing, of letting go, and of people needing other people. It has so much truth, heart and it’s one of those stories that will stay with you.
Four lives. Four stories. Four sets of letters
All four of the characters in this book were so different. All of them were experiencing something big in their life. Hollyn and Jace both were dealing with a big loss. Daisy is looking to find herself and who she really is. Carter, well, Carter is something else all together, but I found myself loving all four of them. I wanted to give them all huge hugs and tell them everything was going to be okay. I loved them all for different reasons, though I have to say Daisy and Jace were probably my favorites. I want to talk about everything their going through and I would love to go on about their journeys, but you’ll want to discover them all on your own. Trust me on that.
Dear Life is a story that is hard to read at times, but it’s one of those books that makes you feel like you have a purpose. It gives you hope. It reminds you that even when you’re going through something hard, you can overcome it. Sometimes you just need a little help and support. The letter the author wrote at the end of the book touched me so much. Between that letter, and all the parts of the book that were Jace’s, I was a crying mess for a lot of this book. But then I had Daisy that always made me smile. It was a great balance. Grief, hope, change, friendship, and finding your purpose. This is a book everyone needs to read. It’s exceptional. A 5 star favorite for me!
January 14, 2017
5 Stars!!
Meghan Quinn blew me away with this novel. 'Dear Life' was my second book by this author and while it was so different than the first, I loved it as much. Meghan delivers an amazing story, so well written, compelling and thought-provoking, and...so different from what I had expected and from what I read so far. I’m rarely blown away by an author or, in this case, a story, but Meghan Quinn managed to impress me and move me so much with this engaging, emotional read. She managed to make me feel so much and to be invested in these characters’ stories from beginning until the end.
“You bring four strangers together who know nothing about each other and expose their brokenness, their common heartbreaks, and give them a reason to breathe. The mutual need for companionship, for understanding.”
'Dear Life' tells the story of four people who, despite the fact they are different from each other, have something in common - all four of them are trying to deal with whatever life throws at them as best as they can. Hollyn, Jace, Daisy and Carter are defeated and lost in their own way. Each one of them is trying to deal with something different, each one of them has a unique story to tell and each one of them is desperate to prove their existence. These four people meet each other when they attend a program called ‘Dear Life’, a program that is supposed to help them learn to live again.
“Prove your existence. That’s your new motto to live by. What did you do today to prove your existence, what are you doing tomorrow to prove your existence in this world?”
Hollyn and Jace are dealing with a big loss. Both of them know how is to lose someone, how to feel empty, how not to feel anything anymore and both of them want to learn to live again, to learn how to flip the page to a new chapter. Daisy and Carter are so different from each other, yet similar in so many ways. Both of them desire freedom, in two different ways, both of them wanting a change in their lives.
”Until you face your fears, push through, you will never know what’s waiting for you on the other side.”
'Dear Life' is not a story only about life, like the title suggests. It’s a story about grief, learning to move on and healing, about the fantastic voyage of self-discovery, about family and friends, about love and so much more. This enthralling read was more than raw, more than honest, more than touching – it was REAL. Every word, every sentence, every character was REAL and every character moved me in a way or another, every single one of their stories giving me all the feels.
I loved how the story was built, how it progressed, how these characters’ stories were interlinked. The plot was fantastically developed and I loved the multiple POVs. Hollyn, Jace, Daisy and Carter were wonderfully portrayed characters I came to like and sympathize with from the start. I liked the fact that all of them were so different from each other. All of them were unique, all of them had so much depth, all of them were endearing in their own way. And that’s why I can’t say I have a favorite character, because I truly loved every one of them, loved their portrayals and loved their roles in the others characters' stories.
Every single one of these characters’ story was emotional, thought-provoking and so well written. From the very beginning I wanted so badly for them to heal, to find peace, to find freedom. I experienced every single one of their emotions, each one of them holding me at the edge of my seat for one reason or another.
If you are looking for something different, for something poignant, for something honest and real, don’t hesitate and read this one. Read it, experience it, live it and love it as much as I did! Ahh…and one last thing…I absolutely loved the author’s note in the end. All my respect and admiration for her for not only writing this wonderful story, but also for sharing a piece of her with her readers.
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August 9, 2021
5 STARS
"Dear Life. Learn to live again.”
Are you bored with the same old storylines?
Have you been looking for something different in the romance genre to start your 2017 off right?
Meghan Quinn delivers a four-person pov story that was well entwined while high on emotion, laughter, friendship, growth, and love.
As the four main characters attend a self-help weekly group called “Dear Life”, they all work on learning to live again. After loss, or disappointments, or even just finding out who they are or want to be in the future they are hoping to make a change. Each character’s journey was well written, as was the individual characters’ povs of Jace, Daisy, Carter, and Hollyn.
"For some reason, I can seek a key to happiness within her. I can see her pain helping my pain.”
Not only do these four characters form a friendship, conquer their life roadblocks, but they couple up in the most wonderful of ways.
"Are you jumping in?” I ask him. “If I jump in, will you jump in?”
A well-delivered original story that was a pleasure to read. The love that blossoms between the two couples is fantastic, the humor just right, and the message inspiring!
"Until you face your fears, push through, you will never know what’s waiting for you on the other side.”
"Dear Life. Learn to live again.”
Are you bored with the same old storylines?
Have you been looking for something different in the romance genre to start your 2017 off right?
Meghan Quinn delivers a four-person pov story that was well entwined while high on emotion, laughter, friendship, growth, and love.
As the four main characters attend a self-help weekly group called “Dear Life”, they all work on learning to live again. After loss, or disappointments, or even just finding out who they are or want to be in the future they are hoping to make a change. Each character’s journey was well written, as was the individual characters’ povs of Jace, Daisy, Carter, and Hollyn.
"For some reason, I can seek a key to happiness within her. I can see her pain helping my pain.”
Not only do these four characters form a friendship, conquer their life roadblocks, but they couple up in the most wonderful of ways.
"Are you jumping in?” I ask him. “If I jump in, will you jump in?”
A well-delivered original story that was a pleasure to read. The love that blossoms between the two couples is fantastic, the humor just right, and the message inspiring!
"Until you face your fears, push through, you will never know what’s waiting for you on the other side.”
January 15, 2017
Let's get my disclaimer out of the way first: I LOVE this author. Meghan Quinn is the queen of ROM-COM and so she is one author that I'll hit that one-click button on everytime. I didn't even look at what this book was about and I probably should have. Now if you hate my review..so be it. I have a 1-800 number set up for you to call in with your tears.
Because I kinda didn't like this book.
You have four broken people. Hollyn, who recently was widowed and can't move on from her husband's death. Jace, a famous baseball player who got dumped with a baby and ended up giving it up for adoption. Carter, who's parents commited suicide and left him with an uncaring uncle (who he feels like just wants to keep him down). And then Daisy, who grew up with her grandmother..sheltered and thinking crafting up vests in her spare time was fun.
They all find out or are forced to participate in a "Dear Life" program.
Sort of a peer counseling type programs where they work through life's problems by writing Life a letter at each meeting.
They end up paired together in a group to supposedly help each other. Now I'm not making fun of their life experiences. Life sucks. BELIEVE me I know that.
BUT and this is something that drove me crazy for the whole book, every counseling I've ever seen or heard of tells you to NOT GET ROMANTICALLY INVOLVED when you are working through something. I'm not talking about friendship support, so calm your panties.
Someone I love is going through counseling right now, and she just jumped into another relationship. I can see that if it doesn't work out that she is going to have a crash. It's my opinion (which is worth maybe a sack of potatoes) but I wish she could work on rebuilding her self esteem without being all in lurve. So this was a biggie for me and warped the whole dang book. I just wanted to yell at them at what idiots they were being.
I was totally judging.
I give no craps.
There are some cute moments in the book. Daisy and her grandmother were my favorites out of the whole thing. With Daisy's Alfred Dunner pants and her grandmother reading Fifty Shades...I keep hoping the box would open and I would get something good.
Now does this mean I hate this author and will never buy her books again? Heck no. I'll just look at the type book first. I'm not bashing her or her heart, because I can see she put some heart into this story. It just fell flat for me. I'm a souless heifer who doesn't like for something to try and milk my feelings.
Because I kinda didn't like this book.
You have four broken people. Hollyn, who recently was widowed and can't move on from her husband's death. Jace, a famous baseball player who got dumped with a baby and ended up giving it up for adoption. Carter, who's parents commited suicide and left him with an uncaring uncle (who he feels like just wants to keep him down). And then Daisy, who grew up with her grandmother..sheltered and thinking crafting up vests in her spare time was fun.
They all find out or are forced to participate in a "Dear Life" program.
Sort of a peer counseling type programs where they work through life's problems by writing Life a letter at each meeting.
They end up paired together in a group to supposedly help each other. Now I'm not making fun of their life experiences. Life sucks. BELIEVE me I know that.
BUT and this is something that drove me crazy for the whole book, every counseling I've ever seen or heard of tells you to NOT GET ROMANTICALLY INVOLVED when you are working through something. I'm not talking about friendship support, so calm your panties.
Someone I love is going through counseling right now, and she just jumped into another relationship. I can see that if it doesn't work out that she is going to have a crash. It's my opinion (which is worth maybe a sack of potatoes) but I wish she could work on rebuilding her self esteem without being all in lurve. So this was a biggie for me and warped the whole dang book. I just wanted to yell at them at what idiots they were being.
I was totally judging.
I give no craps.
There are some cute moments in the book. Daisy and her grandmother were my favorites out of the whole thing. With Daisy's Alfred Dunner pants and her grandmother reading Fifty Shades...I keep hoping the box would open and I would get something good.
Now does this mean I hate this author and will never buy her books again? Heck no. I'll just look at the type book first. I'm not bashing her or her heart, because I can see she put some heart into this story. It just fell flat for me. I'm a souless heifer who doesn't like for something to try and milk my feelings.
February 7, 2017
*****5 Stars*****
“Four lives. Four stories. Four sets of letters. Four brave souls in need of guidance while facing life’s greatest challenges.”
“Dear Life” by Meghan Quinn was such a phenomenal story and unlike anything I have read to date. It was absolutely amazing and when I say amazing, I mean amazing. When I finished the book all I could think of was how brilliant it was and sadness that it ended, because I kept wanting more and more and more! I know it’s only the start to the year, but I’m going to put it out there; this book will be hard to beat for me this year. That is how much I loved it. I will be recommending this book to each and every person I know.
This story is about sorrow, anguish and surviving the ultimate heartbreak; after you’ve hit rock bottom, comes healing, belief, and hope. This story is not an easy one to read. I am warning you, it is positively gut-wrenching and shook me to my absolute core. It will make you cry and will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions, but it is well worth the ride.
“Dear Life” is written from the point of view of each of the four main characters; Jace, Hollyn, Carter and Daisy. I loved each and every character, because they each brought something unique and enthralling to this story. They all have their crosses to bear and are struggling in their own way to overcome their adversities and to ultimately learn to live again.
“You bring four strangers together who know nothing about each other and expose their brokenness, their common heartbreaks, and give them a reason to breathe.”
“Dear Life” is a program that is designed to help individuals overcome trauma, personal fears and any other obstacles that life has thrown your way. This program is the first step to taking back your life and being in charge of any situation. All participants of the program heal through writing anonymous letters to Life.
“Prove your existence. That’s your new motto to live by. What did you do today to prove your existence, what are you doing tomorrow to prove your existence in this world.”
“Dear Life” is probably the most real book I have read in a really long time. The problems are real, the emotions are real and I know the heartbreak I felt for each of these characters was real. This story for me really encompassed the importance of finding that support to help pull yourself out of the mire in your darkest hour. I recommend this story to absolutely everyone. The writing was, well, …. simply divine. I was taken on an amazing journey which the author has so beautifully and articulately created for her readers. This is one unforgettable story that I can’t wait to re-read.
February 8, 2017
5 Keeping an Open Mind Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free- It's LIVE!!!!
Disclaimer: This Book lends itself to doing a review a certain way. Others, I know, will do it so much better in writing a letter to Life or Meghan Quinn. Please take every opportunity to read them. This, however, is my contribution... My Letter to You.
Dear Reader,
When picking this book, I saw it was written by Meghan Quinn and knew it would probably be a good read. I had recently read a series by her and was taken by the themes, how she laced all of her elements with heavy doses of humor, sexual tension but with equal care... Heart. That is always a winning combination for me so when this became available, I read the blurb... didn't think too much on it and said yup... I'll read this.
Now I would be lying if I said right away, from the first page I was on board...It seems I forgot the story when I first started... I wasn't "getting it"... So I went re read the blurb and then saw what was happening. In the back of my mind I thought... ok, four people thrown together and we go on their journeys... sounds right...
Well...It was this and so much more.
No, Really... So Much More.
Because Meghan Quinn did not just write a moving book about four people who intersect during critical times in each of their lives...She dove into Life's Bermuda Triangle...That place where all of us have visited in varying degrees. Some of us have only danced around the edges...some only a toe flirting with a dip... Others of us have wadded in the pool and only through true determination have not sucomed and been pulled down by its undertow.
Yes, Life presents all kinds of obstacles and it is the way we work through the overwhelming ones...along side the easier ones that shape who we are as people.
So with all of that said... I suggest you read this book with an open mind and heart.... because if you do...You will get so much more than a well done romance novel about four fully developed characters going through their personal journeys and how each one impacts the other.
What you will get is a way to help you through your own hurdles... if you are willing.
You will get the understanding of things you already know...but by seeing them acted out in this book, through these characters you become concerned for...You might just decide to look internally at your own life...at your own needs and see away to confront whatever may need confronting.
So there is that.
There is also a really fine book which is entertaining and doesn't always take the easy way out. It makes each of its characters think...work for what they want and even is willing to have them sometimes not know exactly what it is.
It builds the relationships the way troubled people are... not all hearts and flowers...There are light moments and extremely dark ones. There are times when the characters may not act the way you expect or want... and there are many times when everything is just how you do.
Kinda like life, huh...
So in my closing, take what I have told you about the book...read other reviews and then decide...If you do decide to read it, I hope it will touch you as much as it did me,
Wendy'sThoughts
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Meghan Quinn has shown me with all of her books...
a Deep Understanding of Heart...
With this new book... I have no doubt it will be front and center...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free- It's LIVE!!!!
Disclaimer: This Book lends itself to doing a review a certain way. Others, I know, will do it so much better in writing a letter to Life or Meghan Quinn. Please take every opportunity to read them. This, however, is my contribution... My Letter to You.
Dear Reader,
When picking this book, I saw it was written by Meghan Quinn and knew it would probably be a good read. I had recently read a series by her and was taken by the themes, how she laced all of her elements with heavy doses of humor, sexual tension but with equal care... Heart. That is always a winning combination for me so when this became available, I read the blurb... didn't think too much on it and said yup... I'll read this.
Now I would be lying if I said right away, from the first page I was on board...It seems I forgot the story when I first started... I wasn't "getting it"... So I went re read the blurb and then saw what was happening. In the back of my mind I thought... ok, four people thrown together and we go on their journeys... sounds right...
Well...It was this and so much more.
No, Really... So Much More.
Because Meghan Quinn did not just write a moving book about four people who intersect during critical times in each of their lives...She dove into Life's Bermuda Triangle...That place where all of us have visited in varying degrees. Some of us have only danced around the edges...some only a toe flirting with a dip... Others of us have wadded in the pool and only through true determination have not sucomed and been pulled down by its undertow.
Yes, Life presents all kinds of obstacles and it is the way we work through the overwhelming ones...along side the easier ones that shape who we are as people.
So with all of that said... I suggest you read this book with an open mind and heart.... because if you do...You will get so much more than a well done romance novel about four fully developed characters going through their personal journeys and how each one impacts the other.
What you will get is a way to help you through your own hurdles... if you are willing.
You will get the understanding of things you already know...but by seeing them acted out in this book, through these characters you become concerned for...You might just decide to look internally at your own life...at your own needs and see away to confront whatever may need confronting.
So there is that.
There is also a really fine book which is entertaining and doesn't always take the easy way out. It makes each of its characters think...work for what they want and even is willing to have them sometimes not know exactly what it is.
It builds the relationships the way troubled people are... not all hearts and flowers...There are light moments and extremely dark ones. There are times when the characters may not act the way you expect or want... and there are many times when everything is just how you do.
Kinda like life, huh...
So in my closing, take what I have told you about the book...read other reviews and then decide...If you do decide to read it, I hope it will touch you as much as it did me,
Wendy'sThoughts
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Meghan Quinn has shown me with all of her books...
a Deep Understanding of Heart...
With this new book... I have no doubt it will be front and center...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
February 7, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person – Multiple
Rating:
Four different lives at the end if their roads were looking for a change of course. Some by choice and some by force, they joined the Dear Life program to embark on a journey to rediscover life. But changes could only happen from within and they had to learn to accept their shortcomings in order to move on.
I've read and enjoyed several of Meghan Quinn's hilarious romantic comedy books. When I found out about this book, I was intrigued to see how the author would tackle the subject. I'm glad I enjoyed it as much as her lighter works.
The four characters of Hollyn, Jace Barnes, Daisy Beauregard and Carter Crawford were totally different from each other yet brought together by their shared need to change their lives. And I like how their lives were connected one way or another.
Among them there were the optimist, the pessimist, the bitch and the sweetheart. It was interesting seeing how each of them dealt with their personal issues and each others. They all inadvertently hurt and heal one another.
My favorite is definitely Carter. He just spoke to me from the beginning and I love his letters haha!
Dear Life is an inspirational tale of four individuals learning to get out of the deep end and make the most of what life offered. It would appeal to readers looking for raw, real and relatable story with bits of humor in between.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person – Multiple
Rating:
Four different lives at the end if their roads were looking for a change of course. Some by choice and some by force, they joined the Dear Life program to embark on a journey to rediscover life. But changes could only happen from within and they had to learn to accept their shortcomings in order to move on.
I've read and enjoyed several of Meghan Quinn's hilarious romantic comedy books. When I found out about this book, I was intrigued to see how the author would tackle the subject. I'm glad I enjoyed it as much as her lighter works.
You can see it in his eyes; they are pleading for help, begging for the pain to stop.
The four characters of Hollyn, Jace Barnes, Daisy Beauregard and Carter Crawford were totally different from each other yet brought together by their shared need to change their lives. And I like how their lives were connected one way or another.
A change needs to happen, because right now, the person I see in my reflection is still stuck in the past, and I want her to move into the future.
Among them there were the optimist, the pessimist, the bitch and the sweetheart. It was interesting seeing how each of them dealt with their personal issues and each others. They all inadvertently hurt and heal one another.
My favorite is definitely Carter. He just spoke to me from the beginning and I love his letters haha!
“Life isn’t some walk in the park where you can make wishes on dandelions. Life is work. Life is a journey of triumphs and sorrows. Of successes and failures. Of learning experiences and growing opportunities. You can’t sit back and expect different results when you’re not doing anything to change.”
Dear Life is an inspirational tale of four individuals learning to get out of the deep end and make the most of what life offered. It would appeal to readers looking for raw, real and relatable story with bits of humor in between.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
October 7, 2017
➦I'm glad I finally found the time for some older releases. I absolutely adored this book and it's definitely going on my favorites shelf!
➦I've read Meghan Quinn's romcoms before and I love her sense of humor. Here, however, she managed to write an emotional story with a powerful message AND make it humorous in some parts. It was really a perfect blend of humor, angst and romance. I laughed, cried and hyperventilated.
➦It's a story following four people who get into the Dear Life program, which is supposed to help them learn to find themselves and "prove their existence." They end up finding support and friendship in each other as well as love. It's about healing, moving on and embracing life. Loved it!
January 9, 2019
*****FOUR STARS*****
I thought it was going to be hard to follow four different main character's storylines but they intertwined with each other which made it easy. Another powerful drama by the Queen of RomCom!!
I thought it was going to be hard to follow four different main character's storylines but they intertwined with each other which made it easy. Another powerful drama by the Queen of RomCom!!
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February 10, 2017ONE-CLICK here ---> http://amzn.to/2iBjcT9
Four lives, Four stories. Four sets of letters.
Dear Life is a Contemporary Romance that immerses you into the lives of Jace - the baseball player, Hollyn - the perpetually hurt, Daisy - the sheltered, and Carter - the bitter prick. Teetering on the edge of making something of themselves or losing it all, they join the Dear Life program to ensure their chances at changing the lemons life has handed them.
Be prepared to be swept away by the heartache, heart-warming romance, and ravishing moments that will leave you breathless and wanting more. Told in multiple points of view, the story unravels like a vivid picture right in front of you, filled with heart, humor, and heat, this novel will be sure to capture you from page one.
Four lives, Four stories. Four sets of letters.
Dear Life is a Contemporary Romance that immerses you into the lives of Jace - the baseball player, Hollyn - the perpetually hurt, Daisy - the sheltered, and Carter - the bitter prick. Teetering on the edge of making something of themselves or losing it all, they join the Dear Life program to ensure their chances at changing the lemons life has handed them.
Be prepared to be swept away by the heartache, heart-warming romance, and ravishing moments that will leave you breathless and wanting more. Told in multiple points of view, the story unravels like a vivid picture right in front of you, filled with heart, humor, and heat, this novel will be sure to capture you from page one.
February 7, 2017
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Dear Life by Meghan Quinn is hands down the most raw, intimate, honest, and vulnerable book that she has written so far. This is one of those reads that cannot be fully reviewed since Dear Life is about life’s journey. The good, the bad, and those moments in our life we want a do-over. Four lives. Four strangers are brought together where they bond over the fact that life is not fair. People they love had to die. Sacrifices had to be made. Letting go is not easy. And the hardest part is starting over. Dear Life is a reminder that we exist on this earth for a reason. We can either roll with the punches or let our guilt, pain, sadness, and loss consume us. So if you are looking a story where four different letters addressed to life are written in such a poignant, heartbreaking, touching and visceral manner then this is the book for you.
P.S.
Dear Meghan Quinn,
Thank you for your raw honesty towards the end of the book. Life is truly a journey and things do happen for a reason. I am so happy that life brought you and your wife a bundle of joy this Holiday Season.
Sincerely,
Michelle xo
So I think it’s fitting I end this review with a letter of my own to Life.
Dear Life,
The last half of 2016 has been a very rough year for me personally dealing with my dad’s health. For three months of my life, it was consumed with lots of doctor’s visits, surgeries, and hospital stays. When I thought my dad was on the road to recovery, you had to punch me once again and have them tell me he possibly has leukemia. Right now, I am consumed with mixed emotions. I hate you and then I am thankful. Hate you for the obvious reason. Thankful that the doctors caught his CMML early. So as you can tell, I am so ready for 2016 to be over with. Please be kind to me in 2017. I am tired of being worried and stressed out. I am so definitely tired of crying. So life, I am trusting you with 2017.
~Michelle xo
Meghan Quinn
Dear Life by Meghan Quinn is hands down the most raw, intimate, honest, and vulnerable book that she has written so far. This is one of those reads that cannot be fully reviewed since Dear Life is about life’s journey. The good, the bad, and those moments in our life we want a do-over. Four lives. Four strangers are brought together where they bond over the fact that life is not fair. People they love had to die. Sacrifices had to be made. Letting go is not easy. And the hardest part is starting over. Dear Life is a reminder that we exist on this earth for a reason. We can either roll with the punches or let our guilt, pain, sadness, and loss consume us. So if you are looking a story where four different letters addressed to life are written in such a poignant, heartbreaking, touching and visceral manner then this is the book for you.
P.S.
Dear Meghan Quinn,
Thank you for your raw honesty towards the end of the book. Life is truly a journey and things do happen for a reason. I am so happy that life brought you and your wife a bundle of joy this Holiday Season.
Sincerely,
Michelle xo
So I think it’s fitting I end this review with a letter of my own to Life.
Dear Life,
The last half of 2016 has been a very rough year for me personally dealing with my dad’s health. For three months of my life, it was consumed with lots of doctor’s visits, surgeries, and hospital stays. When I thought my dad was on the road to recovery, you had to punch me once again and have them tell me he possibly has leukemia. Right now, I am consumed with mixed emotions. I hate you and then I am thankful. Hate you for the obvious reason. Thankful that the doctors caught his CMML early. So as you can tell, I am so ready for 2016 to be over with. Please be kind to me in 2017. I am tired of being worried and stressed out. I am so definitely tired of crying. So life, I am trusting you with 2017.
~Michelle xo
Meghan Quinn
February 25, 2017
My review is going to simply be, Read this book, it is absolutely amazingly beautiful. I'm left speechless at how much I fell in love with this book.
Definitely a book I will reread!! And one I hands down recommend to you❤❤❤❤
Definitely a book I will reread!! And one I hands down recommend to you❤❤❤❤
August 5, 2019
4.5 "Let it all out" stars!!
This will be a fairly quick review because I'm still buzzing over this book and I don't want to accidentally reveal too much.
This story is about four people: Hollyn, Jace, Daisy and Carter. It's also told from each of their points of view, so we get an in-depth look at what's going on. Each person has been dealt a hard knock or two from life. They each find themselves at the end of their ropes. Defeated. Lost. The Dear Life program forces each of them to grab life by its horns, embrace it, own it, and best of all, to live it!
In all honesty, all of the characters added their own sort of depth to the plot, but my favorite was Jace. He embodied every positive characteristic that I could possibly think of. He was kind, considerate, patient, understanding, compassionate, nonjudgmental, intelligent, humble, etc. He was really pretty amazing. I loved him so much!
My only disappointment with this book, why I docked half a star, is that I wanted to see more of these people. I wanted more of a HEA. But that's just me and the HFNs they received were still sweet.
I think what touched me the most in this book was what happened at the very end. The author wrote her own letter and it really pulled at my heartstrings. I definitely teared up while reading it. Can't lie. It practically tore my heart open because it was REAL! I admired not only her honest story, but also her bravery in sharing it.
Release Date: January 5, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Multiple - 1st person
Steam: 3 out of 5
Series or Standalone: Standalone
This will be a fairly quick review because I'm still buzzing over this book and I don't want to accidentally reveal too much.
This story is about four people: Hollyn, Jace, Daisy and Carter. It's also told from each of their points of view, so we get an in-depth look at what's going on. Each person has been dealt a hard knock or two from life. They each find themselves at the end of their ropes. Defeated. Lost. The Dear Life program forces each of them to grab life by its horns, embrace it, own it, and best of all, to live it!
In all honesty, all of the characters added their own sort of depth to the plot, but my favorite was Jace. He embodied every positive characteristic that I could possibly think of. He was kind, considerate, patient, understanding, compassionate, nonjudgmental, intelligent, humble, etc. He was really pretty amazing. I loved him so much!
My only disappointment with this book, why I docked half a star, is that I wanted to see more of these people. I wanted more of a HEA. But that's just me and the HFNs they received were still sweet.
I think what touched me the most in this book was what happened at the very end. The author wrote her own letter and it really pulled at my heartstrings. I definitely teared up while reading it. Can't lie. It practically tore my heart open because it was REAL! I admired not only her honest story, but also her bravery in sharing it.
Release Date: January 5, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Multiple - 1st person
Steam: 3 out of 5
Series or Standalone: Standalone
February 15, 2017
4 Stars
Wow, this one took me longer than usual to read. Not because it was bad or boring. But for some reason, I kept on getting distracted by watching "fake news" on current US politics. Now, I can't even tell if this book was just slow paced or if the political status of America forced my concerned distraction! Damn you Trump!!
Although I read this at a snails pace, I did enjoy what I read of this story and have little to no complaints about it. Lovers of safety don't have much to fear and can go into this happily, unless of course you need to know that
Told in 1st person POV from all four of the main characters and standalone story. No epilogue or HEA, but I felt content with how it all ended. Especially the author's letter to life at the end. Thumbs up for that Ms Author :)
Wow, this one took me longer than usual to read. Not because it was bad or boring. But for some reason, I kept on getting distracted by watching "fake news" on current US politics. Now, I can't even tell if this book was just slow paced or if the political status of America forced my concerned distraction! Damn you Trump!!
Although I read this at a snails pace, I did enjoy what I read of this story and have little to no complaints about it. Lovers of safety don't have much to fear and can go into this happily, unless of course you need to know that
Told in 1st person POV from all four of the main characters and standalone story. No epilogue or HEA, but I felt content with how it all ended. Especially the author's letter to life at the end. Thumbs up for that Ms Author :)
February 3, 2018
I really enjoyed this one! The concept was unique and I really loved how MQ set it up, all four people were suffering from different things and yet I never felt like one person's pain outweighed another's. That's one of the great things about this book, I think given the varying personalities and types of pain, most readers could find something to relate to. And the ending message is very uplifting.
But despite her fears and doubts, she also showed the most growth in my opinion. Her strength was very admirable.
Carter, Daisy's love interest, was a bit a dick, but I also loved him. He won me over with his sarcasm 😏 He was a very apathetic character and I loved watching Daisy break down his defenses.
In complete contrast to Carter's brusque personality, Jace is much more reserved. He's the quiet one, the one who notices things rather than striving to be noticed (which is ironic since he's a famous athlete), the listener.
Hollyn, Jace's love interest, was probably the character I related to the least. My heart broke for her, but apart from the first chapter, which began with her POV, I just didn't connect with her much for the rest of the novel. I didn't see her development as much as everyone else's. That also made her relationship with Jace a little lukewarm for me as well. It also could be that I was so obsessed with Daisy that I was always anxious to get to her POV. Either way, all four of these characters were admirable in his/her own way and watching them grow, together and apart, was beautiful 💛
I was also very impressed with the author's ability to integrate some of her trademark humor in such an emotion-driven novel!
So why not 5 stars?
Well, there was some drama at the end that felt a bit unnecessary. The conflicts were necessarily OTT but they felt forced for the sake of conflict. I would have preferred for their emotions to be explored a little more thoroughly and in a more organic way.
I was really touched by the author's note at the end. I love her romantic comedies, but I sure hope she writes some more books like this too! 💛
Closure:
"Prove your existence. That's your new motto to live by. What did you do today to prove your existence, what are you doing tomorrow to prove your existence in this world?"My favorite character without a doubt was Daisy. She reminded me so much of myself! I'm awkward and introverted and insecure and I related to almost everything she said.
How do you know if people like you? If they are being nice to be nice, or if they genuinely want to be nice to you?^^^ THIS. It's like it was pulled from my brain.
But despite her fears and doubts, she also showed the most growth in my opinion. Her strength was very admirable.
I shouldn't want to be another human being. I should want to be myself. This life I'm trying to live, trying to develop, it shouldn't be focused on one man and his heart. It should be focused on me and the beating organ in my chest.She was aware of her flaws and was fighting to fix them.
Maybe this is what life is. One giant, nauseating, and confusing roller coaster. Funny, coming from the girl who was born and raised on a merry-go-round.
It's funny, when one door closes, there really is another door open, ready and waiting for you.
Carter, Daisy's love interest, was a bit a dick, but I also loved him. He won me over with his sarcasm 😏 He was a very apathetic character and I loved watching Daisy break down his defenses.
Daisy, fucking Snowflake. She gets under my skin, buries herself deep within, and shows no plans on leaving.He is resistant, but he ends up being very sweet when he wants to be...
She's sunshine and rainbows; I'm rainclouds and puddles.
"This is a pretty shitty world, but you're a bright beacon amongst all the dark."I didn't feel his growth as acutely as I felt Daisy's, but by the end I loved the difference in his letters to life.
In complete contrast to Carter's brusque personality, Jace is much more reserved. He's the quiet one, the one who notices things rather than striving to be noticed (which is ironic since he's a famous athlete), the listener.
"It's a beautiful thing to be able to listen to each other. Not just hear their words, but read body language as well. Imagine if we were all trained that way, the kind of compassion we'd have for everyone."He had some very wise words and his POV was another one of my favorites...
"You can't devalue what you're going through because you're comparing it to someone else. We're all going through this program for a reason despite how big or small it is. This is not a competition, it's a fellowship."After Daisy, he showed the most growth in my opinion. He was hurting deeply, but he truly came to see the positives to the situation he was in. It wasn't easy, but Jace was very selfless and courageous with his decisions.
Hollyn, Jace's love interest, was probably the character I related to the least. My heart broke for her, but apart from the first chapter, which began with her POV, I just didn't connect with her much for the rest of the novel. I didn't see her development as much as everyone else's. That also made her relationship with Jace a little lukewarm for me as well. It also could be that I was so obsessed with Daisy that I was always anxious to get to her POV. Either way, all four of these characters were admirable in his/her own way and watching them grow, together and apart, was beautiful 💛
I was also very impressed with the author's ability to integrate some of her trademark humor in such an emotion-driven novel!
Never wanting to be a terrible hostess, I hold out the pretzel bag to her and ask, "Want to down the salt at the bottom?"
"It was Fifty Shades of Grey."
Not really aware of any kind of pop-culture. I ask, "What's that? A fabric book? If it is, I would like to get my hands on it. I've had some trouble finding the perfect grey for this quilt I've been working on. The patterns I keep finding aren't mixing well with my other choices so if this book has any suggestions, that would be awesome."
Goodness, I've never even been this intimate with a man before, would it make me a street walker if I stuck my hand down a guy's pants when making out with him? Can I phone a friend and ask Amanda?
So why not 5 stars?
Well, there was some drama at the end that felt a bit unnecessary. The conflicts were necessarily OTT but they felt forced for the sake of conflict. I would have preferred for their emotions to be explored a little more thoroughly and in a more organic way.
I was really touched by the author's note at the end. I love her romantic comedies, but I sure hope she writes some more books like this too! 💛
I thought you [life] were trying to ruin me, when in fact, you were preparing me for the next chapter in my life. - MeghanSafety:
Closure:
February 8, 2017
5.0 "PROVE YOUR EXISTENCE" STARS!!!
WOW! What a BREATH-TAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL story! Hands down to Meghan Quinn because Dear Life just STOLE my heart and OWNED it! When she said this book is different from her other works, I never thought it's this DIFFERENT because for all of those holy, this book is UNIQUELY WRITTEN! It was so real, so raw, so honest and so awe inspiring I have no other thoughts except I LOVE IT WHOLEHEARTEDLY and it became a special part of me. And one of the most important part of the book? It was written with HEART AND SOUL.
Writing this review is so hard because I was speechless like utterly speechless and I keep on sobbing because I was really touched on the realness of the story. It really struck me so deep that even days after I can still feel all the emotions I felt reading the book. From the very first page up to the very last one, I devoured every words and lines because it held so much emotions and everything just feels so raw. My heart ached so much it was so painful. I was gutted.The book doesn't just speak about "Four lives. Four stories. Four sets of letters. Four brave souls in need of guidance while facing life's greatest challenges." It speaks so much about us. About life in general and that's what I love about this book even more. In reality really, when struggling and is faced with so much difficulties and obstacles it's just so easy to shout and say "FUCK LIFE! YOU ARE SO UNFAIR! FUCK YOU!!!". But reading this book, It's an eye opener to each and everyone that despite the bumps along the way, no matter how many curve balls thrown at us, we still can move forward. We can grieve no matter how long we wanted, we can feel whatever we wanted to feel but in the end we need to accept the reality because what's important is that,We need to Own Ourselves, Own Our Shit and Prove Our Existence.
Is it easy? Hell NO! But with the right people around us, along the way things will be better. For Jace, Hollyn, Daisy and Carter, they have with them each other. But to be free fully, everything would really starts from within. They may have a life they never would have dream of having from the start but life gives them a plot twist you could definitely say "FUCK LIFE". But in the end it will be "THANK YOU LIFE! I AM STRONGER THAN YOU THINK!".
Highly Recommended!
WOW! What a BREATH-TAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL story! Hands down to Meghan Quinn because Dear Life just STOLE my heart and OWNED it! When she said this book is different from her other works, I never thought it's this DIFFERENT because for all of those holy, this book is UNIQUELY WRITTEN! It was so real, so raw, so honest and so awe inspiring I have no other thoughts except I LOVE IT WHOLEHEARTEDLY and it became a special part of me. And one of the most important part of the book? It was written with HEART AND SOUL.
Writing this review is so hard because I was speechless like utterly speechless and I keep on sobbing because I was really touched on the realness of the story. It really struck me so deep that even days after I can still feel all the emotions I felt reading the book. From the very first page up to the very last one, I devoured every words and lines because it held so much emotions and everything just feels so raw. My heart ached so much it was so painful. I was gutted.The book doesn't just speak about "Four lives. Four stories. Four sets of letters. Four brave souls in need of guidance while facing life's greatest challenges." It speaks so much about us. About life in general and that's what I love about this book even more. In reality really, when struggling and is faced with so much difficulties and obstacles it's just so easy to shout and say "FUCK LIFE! YOU ARE SO UNFAIR! FUCK YOU!!!". But reading this book, It's an eye opener to each and everyone that despite the bumps along the way, no matter how many curve balls thrown at us, we still can move forward. We can grieve no matter how long we wanted, we can feel whatever we wanted to feel but in the end we need to accept the reality because what's important is that,We need to Own Ourselves, Own Our Shit and Prove Our Existence.
Is it easy? Hell NO! But with the right people around us, along the way things will be better. For Jace, Hollyn, Daisy and Carter, they have with them each other. But to be free fully, everything would really starts from within. They may have a life they never would have dream of having from the start but life gives them a plot twist you could definitely say "FUCK LIFE". But in the end it will be "THANK YOU LIFE! I AM STRONGER THAN YOU THINK!".
Highly Recommended!
February 6, 2017
For only my second read by Meghan Quinn, I have to say I'm very impressed. I started this last night and couldn't put it down. This was a phenomenal story or to be more accurate, stories. In Dear Life, Meghan takes us through stories dealing with love, loss, grief, and new experiences.
Hollyn, Daisy, Jace and Carter are the main characters. Each of them decides to attend a self-help group called Dear Life. In this group they are put together into one group to work together, lean on one another and help each other face their fears and prove their existence.
"You bring four strangers together who know nothing about each other and expose their brokenness, their common heartbreaks, and give them a reason to breathe."
Hollyn is grieving the death of her husband. Jace is grieving a loss as well, and though his loss wasn't due to death, it still brings him to his knees. Daisy has grown up in a sheltered environment and is now trying to go out into the world and find herself. Carter is mad at the world. Life has not been easy or good to him and he just wants a way out.
We get each of these characters points of view. Just as something major was happening in one character's story we would flip to the next character. This writing style pulled me in and had me on the edge of my seat craving more of each story. It also allowed me to feel their pain and sadness, but also their excitement and love.
This is just one of those books that makes you stop and think about your own life. The stories are real and relatable even though the characters were all different. We as people are all different, but sometimes we just may need a little help and that's okay. I really loved the last letter the author wrote. It was so real. I love when authors share a piece of themselves like that and I'm so happy it turned out the way it did for her. This a book everyone should read and one I highly recommend.
"Life is bigger than this, live it, love it…prove your existence."
Hollyn, Daisy, Jace and Carter are the main characters. Each of them decides to attend a self-help group called Dear Life. In this group they are put together into one group to work together, lean on one another and help each other face their fears and prove their existence.
"You bring four strangers together who know nothing about each other and expose their brokenness, their common heartbreaks, and give them a reason to breathe."
Hollyn is grieving the death of her husband. Jace is grieving a loss as well, and though his loss wasn't due to death, it still brings him to his knees. Daisy has grown up in a sheltered environment and is now trying to go out into the world and find herself. Carter is mad at the world. Life has not been easy or good to him and he just wants a way out.
We get each of these characters points of view. Just as something major was happening in one character's story we would flip to the next character. This writing style pulled me in and had me on the edge of my seat craving more of each story. It also allowed me to feel their pain and sadness, but also their excitement and love.
This is just one of those books that makes you stop and think about your own life. The stories are real and relatable even though the characters were all different. We as people are all different, but sometimes we just may need a little help and that's okay. I really loved the last letter the author wrote. It was so real. I love when authors share a piece of themselves like that and I'm so happy it turned out the way it did for her. This a book everyone should read and one I highly recommend.
"Life is bigger than this, live it, love it…prove your existence."
February 9, 2017
Release Date: January 5, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Day Update: This book is now LIVE! I highly recommend it to all fans of romance!
Just to put it out there, I absolutely ADORE Meghan Quinn’s books. Most (but not all) are lighthearted, funny, and pretty over the top (in a good way). But this one. WOW. Talk about putting your heart and soul into a piece of paper… Meghan Quinn has surpassed all expectations that I had for Dear Life and this book will be hard to overshadow throughout the year. This has officially become a favorite of mine as it stands apart from all others in the genre. It’s just real. It’s heartbreaking, gut-wrenching, sweet, and pure. It describes deep issues that real people face every day, and does it with compassion. And when you read the ending? I am sure you will cry just like I did. And I mean a hard and ugly cry that makes you so happy. Gah, it filled me with goosies! Thank you Meghan Quinn, for pouring your heart and soul in this book because it is extremely clear that you did. One simply cannot just write such an effective story like this without a heart, and for this I commend you. With that being said, if you are looking for a book that will make you FEEL, a book that’s more about real life than a sappy and overdone romance, and a book that tells a story with compassion and ease than this is the book you should be reading this year. I highly recommend it. Like, very highly. More so than probably ANY book I have read in a long time.
If you would like to read my full review and hear more about the story than you can find it on my blog come release day (January 12, 2017) – www.prettylittlebookreviews.com
6 + stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Day Update: This book is now LIVE! I highly recommend it to all fans of romance!
Just to put it out there, I absolutely ADORE Meghan Quinn’s books. Most (but not all) are lighthearted, funny, and pretty over the top (in a good way). But this one. WOW. Talk about putting your heart and soul into a piece of paper… Meghan Quinn has surpassed all expectations that I had for Dear Life and this book will be hard to overshadow throughout the year. This has officially become a favorite of mine as it stands apart from all others in the genre. It’s just real. It’s heartbreaking, gut-wrenching, sweet, and pure. It describes deep issues that real people face every day, and does it with compassion. And when you read the ending? I am sure you will cry just like I did. And I mean a hard and ugly cry that makes you so happy. Gah, it filled me with goosies! Thank you Meghan Quinn, for pouring your heart and soul in this book because it is extremely clear that you did. One simply cannot just write such an effective story like this without a heart, and for this I commend you. With that being said, if you are looking for a book that will make you FEEL, a book that’s more about real life than a sappy and overdone romance, and a book that tells a story with compassion and ease than this is the book you should be reading this year. I highly recommend it. Like, very highly. More so than probably ANY book I have read in a long time.
If you would like to read my full review and hear more about the story than you can find it on my blog come release day (January 12, 2017) – www.prettylittlebookreviews.com
6 + stars
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April 10, 2017
It's tough rating this because it started off great and then it kinda fizzled. I love Carter and Daisy and there was moments I was grinning so bad.
“Thanks, Life. You’re a real peach. Once again, note the sarcasm.”
But... When a book goes overboard with the "life is short", "no regrets" quotes it put me off a bit. Also Hollyn's character irritated me.
“Thanks, Life. You’re a real peach. Once again, note the sarcasm.”
But... When a book goes overboard with the "life is short", "no regrets" quotes it put me off a bit. Also Hollyn's character irritated me.
January 17, 2017
4.5 Stars
"Prove your existence. That's your new motto to live by. What did you do today to prove your existence, what are you doing tomorrow to prove your existence in this world?"
This book was very special. It was definitely a departure from Meghan Quinn’s funny, quirky, romantic comedies but it was so worth the read. It was different in the best kind of way. Dear Life is the story of Jace, Hollyn, Daisy and Carter. Four very special people that have been dealt a bad hand in live and when we meet them are just trying to exist, not live. They don’t know each other in the beginning but their lives are somehow interconnected. The four of them find themselves participating in the Dear Life program. An anonymous program that consist of steps and letters and provide the tools to make life changes that will help them “prove their existence”.
As the book progresses, the 4 of them form a unique bond and you can see how their lives just transform. It’s not all rainbows and butterflies with this one, some of these characters have suffered some huge losses and basically have to learn how to live again.
"You're never going to be fully ready, Hollyn. You're just going to have to close your eyes and jump. Trust in your strength and the strength in the people around you."
It’s really hard to explain and put into words what is all about. I was interested and mesmerized the entire time. More than a romance, this book is inspirational and more than anything hopeful. Meghan takes you through this amazing journey with these four characters and you can���t help but being totally invested in their lives.
“I felt the pull between us, like our beings were trying to attach themselves together.”
I loved all 4 characters; they were so different yet similar. I loved the bond that was formed between the 4 of them and also the bond that was formed separately between the 2 main couples. I will say that out of the 4 I loved Daisy and Carter the most. Carter was probably my favorite of the 4.
“She's sunshine and rainbows; I'm rainclouds and puddles.”
I loved the entire book, the writing was simply amazing and even though it’s more serious than Meghan’s usual books, her signature quirkiness is ever present. The one thing I would’ve loved was an epilogue. I would've loved to catch up with their lives in the future, but that’s just my preference, I love epilogues. If you’re looking for something different, inspirational and full of feels, then this is definitely the book for you!
"My life has been silent for so long and then you came along and brought music, lightness, and a brief glimpse of happiness into it."
**An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
JOIN THE SISTERHOOD! FIND US ON: FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / BLOG
"Prove your existence. That's your new motto to live by. What did you do today to prove your existence, what are you doing tomorrow to prove your existence in this world?"
This book was very special. It was definitely a departure from Meghan Quinn’s funny, quirky, romantic comedies but it was so worth the read. It was different in the best kind of way. Dear Life is the story of Jace, Hollyn, Daisy and Carter. Four very special people that have been dealt a bad hand in live and when we meet them are just trying to exist, not live. They don’t know each other in the beginning but their lives are somehow interconnected. The four of them find themselves participating in the Dear Life program. An anonymous program that consist of steps and letters and provide the tools to make life changes that will help them “prove their existence”.
As the book progresses, the 4 of them form a unique bond and you can see how their lives just transform. It’s not all rainbows and butterflies with this one, some of these characters have suffered some huge losses and basically have to learn how to live again.
"You're never going to be fully ready, Hollyn. You're just going to have to close your eyes and jump. Trust in your strength and the strength in the people around you."
It’s really hard to explain and put into words what is all about. I was interested and mesmerized the entire time. More than a romance, this book is inspirational and more than anything hopeful. Meghan takes you through this amazing journey with these four characters and you can���t help but being totally invested in their lives.
“I felt the pull between us, like our beings were trying to attach themselves together.”
I loved all 4 characters; they were so different yet similar. I loved the bond that was formed between the 4 of them and also the bond that was formed separately between the 2 main couples. I will say that out of the 4 I loved Daisy and Carter the most. Carter was probably my favorite of the 4.
“She's sunshine and rainbows; I'm rainclouds and puddles.”
I loved the entire book, the writing was simply amazing and even though it’s more serious than Meghan’s usual books, her signature quirkiness is ever present. The one thing I would’ve loved was an epilogue. I would've loved to catch up with their lives in the future, but that’s just my preference, I love epilogues. If you’re looking for something different, inspirational and full of feels, then this is definitely the book for you!
"My life has been silent for so long and then you came along and brought music, lightness, and a brief glimpse of happiness into it."
**An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
JOIN THE SISTERHOOD! FIND US ON: FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / BLOG
January 2, 2017
WOW WOW WOW! I am used to Meghan's romantic comedies - goofy, sweet, fun ... but Dear Life? We are seeing another brilliant side of Meghan and I LOVED IT. This book is inspiring, emotional, heartwarming, serious, sad but also hilarious as hell in some parts. I cried one minute and then the next I busted out laughing my a** off. Then I ugly cried happy tears at the end. You must read this.
The story surrounds four people with very different lives and circumstances. Hollyn is a newlywed, madly in love, but her husband tragically dies in a training accident after just one year. Jace is blessed with a daughter but being gone most of the time, he can’t give his daughter the life she deserves. Daisy spends her adult life taking care of her grandma and all of a sudden Daisy is faced with the real world all by herself – she is scared and lost. Carter is a gifted chef but he is stuck working in his uncle’s kitchen – all hopes are gone because he lost his one last ticket to escape. All of their stories are quite heart-wrenchingly sad. They are trapped in the past with no hope or strength to move on with their lives. These four meet at Dear Life, a program that is supposed to help people face their demons, accept the present and prove their existence. This book gives us a glimpse of the characters’ past but mostly we get to see the four of them embarking on a life-changing journey to save themselves and to be free. This book is raw and heartbreaking; it will pull at your heart strings and make you cry. But, it’s so satisfying to see how they come out on the other side.
I cannot get enough of Meghan Quinn’s stories. Her rom coms are fabulous but this is entirely different from what she usually writes. Let me tell you this story is magnificent and proves she is a versatile author. If you are looking for a book that has all the feels, you got it right here. As I mentioned before it’s a little sad reading what these characters have to go through, but don’t worry it will be worth it. There are so many hilarious parts as well, and let’s not forget the beautiful romance, the sweet heroines and the swoony heroes …. and the hot sex :)
I hope you all will love it as much as I do! MUST READ!
Thank you Meghan. You really inspired me with this gorgeous story. B**bs squeeze and love you :)
PS: write your Dear Life letter... Here is mine…
Dear Life,
I am truly grateful for the life I have. I won’t bore you with the details, but I have come a long way from living in a poverty-stricken third world country with little food and no electricity but 3 hours/day. I did not have much growing up but we shared the little that we had. Most importantly, I had the love of my family. I was fortunate enough to come to this country when I was 14 years old. I knew it was my once in a lifetime chance to make a better life for myself. It was a hard road but I did it, and I am a proud American citizen.
Today, I am grateful to have a loving husband, 2 beautiful children, good health, good jobs, and a roof over my head. I don’t take anything for granted. I work hard and give back when I can. Christmas season is a fun time but for some not as much. I always feel a little melancholy because it reminds me of when I did not have much – some people were kind to us, others weren’t. Just remember, it doesn’t matter how small the amount, every bit is always appreciated. So, pay it forward if you can. I do.
Hug your family a little tighter. Be kind to one another. Life is too short. That’s all!
Anne
Purchase link ~ http://amzn.to/2iBhJLX
The story surrounds four people with very different lives and circumstances. Hollyn is a newlywed, madly in love, but her husband tragically dies in a training accident after just one year. Jace is blessed with a daughter but being gone most of the time, he can’t give his daughter the life she deserves. Daisy spends her adult life taking care of her grandma and all of a sudden Daisy is faced with the real world all by herself – she is scared and lost. Carter is a gifted chef but he is stuck working in his uncle’s kitchen – all hopes are gone because he lost his one last ticket to escape. All of their stories are quite heart-wrenchingly sad. They are trapped in the past with no hope or strength to move on with their lives. These four meet at Dear Life, a program that is supposed to help people face their demons, accept the present and prove their existence. This book gives us a glimpse of the characters’ past but mostly we get to see the four of them embarking on a life-changing journey to save themselves and to be free. This book is raw and heartbreaking; it will pull at your heart strings and make you cry. But, it’s so satisfying to see how they come out on the other side.
I cannot get enough of Meghan Quinn’s stories. Her rom coms are fabulous but this is entirely different from what she usually writes. Let me tell you this story is magnificent and proves she is a versatile author. If you are looking for a book that has all the feels, you got it right here. As I mentioned before it’s a little sad reading what these characters have to go through, but don’t worry it will be worth it. There are so many hilarious parts as well, and let’s not forget the beautiful romance, the sweet heroines and the swoony heroes …. and the hot sex :)
I hope you all will love it as much as I do! MUST READ!
Thank you Meghan. You really inspired me with this gorgeous story. B**bs squeeze and love you :)
PS: write your Dear Life letter... Here is mine…
Dear Life,
I am truly grateful for the life I have. I won’t bore you with the details, but I have come a long way from living in a poverty-stricken third world country with little food and no electricity but 3 hours/day. I did not have much growing up but we shared the little that we had. Most importantly, I had the love of my family. I was fortunate enough to come to this country when I was 14 years old. I knew it was my once in a lifetime chance to make a better life for myself. It was a hard road but I did it, and I am a proud American citizen.
Today, I am grateful to have a loving husband, 2 beautiful children, good health, good jobs, and a roof over my head. I don’t take anything for granted. I work hard and give back when I can. Christmas season is a fun time but for some not as much. I always feel a little melancholy because it reminds me of when I did not have much – some people were kind to us, others weren’t. Just remember, it doesn’t matter how small the amount, every bit is always appreciated. So, pay it forward if you can. I do.
Hug your family a little tighter. Be kind to one another. Life is too short. That’s all!
Anne
Purchase link ~ http://amzn.to/2iBhJLX
February 4, 2017
You might know Meghan Quinn for her hilarious (and yes, sometimes wacky) humor. She does the romantic comedy really well, but she also nails the serious and the heartbreaking, too. While there are still elements of humor in Dear Life, the intensity of the situations and the emotions really shine through, leaving you thinking about this story long after it is finished.
Dear Life, the book, is a heartfelt and realistic look at four lives who have been changed or shaped by events beyond their control. Dear Life, the program, is about facing your fears and letting go of your grief to become the person you’re meant to be. Dear Life, the story, focuses on four members of the program and the reasons they attend the meetings. Some have suffered losses; others are just lost. Through the program, they are able to interact with others who are stuck or overwhelmed, are given the tools to move forward, as well as write letters to themselves about their experiences.
I loved everything about this story! From the characters and their histories to their progression through the program and their interactions, everything about it was amazing. The story flows brilliantly and I loved how it is layered and woven together. There is an underlying strength in each of the people this story follows. In truth, life may have knocked them down, but each of them is standing in their own way of getting back up. The strength lies in facing their problems head on and finally making progress. And that, right there, is what makes this book marvelous in my eyes.
While I am sad that Meghan had to go through a trying ordeal and heartbreak to be inspired to write this book, I am so happy that she came through her dark time and wrote this incredible story. Dear Life is a unique look at life’s troubles and the loving relationships that can come from taking a risk and putting yourself out there. It is refreshing to read something ‘different’ within the romance genre, where things can tend to become repetitive. I highly, highly recommend reading this--especially if you are craving something different, too.
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ Order: Kindle | Paperback
▸ For more reviews, visit
Dear Life, the book, is a heartfelt and realistic look at four lives who have been changed or shaped by events beyond their control. Dear Life, the program, is about facing your fears and letting go of your grief to become the person you’re meant to be. Dear Life, the story, focuses on four members of the program and the reasons they attend the meetings. Some have suffered losses; others are just lost. Through the program, they are able to interact with others who are stuck or overwhelmed, are given the tools to move forward, as well as write letters to themselves about their experiences.
I loved everything about this story! From the characters and their histories to their progression through the program and their interactions, everything about it was amazing. The story flows brilliantly and I loved how it is layered and woven together. There is an underlying strength in each of the people this story follows. In truth, life may have knocked them down, but each of them is standing in their own way of getting back up. The strength lies in facing their problems head on and finally making progress. And that, right there, is what makes this book marvelous in my eyes.
While I am sad that Meghan had to go through a trying ordeal and heartbreak to be inspired to write this book, I am so happy that she came through her dark time and wrote this incredible story. Dear Life is a unique look at life’s troubles and the loving relationships that can come from taking a risk and putting yourself out there. It is refreshing to read something ‘different’ within the romance genre, where things can tend to become repetitive. I highly, highly recommend reading this--especially if you are craving something different, too.
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ Order: Kindle | Paperback
▸ For more reviews, visit
October 21, 2017
Dear Life
, I'm so glad I picked this book! it was everything I expected and more, so captivating and addictive, the story of four people who suffer from different tragedies.. It was so beautiful and sad at the same time, I found myself crying most of the time without even realizing it!
This book will take you into the journey of four people: Hollyn, Daisy, Jace and Carter. they meet through a program called Dear Life that will help them cope with their problems. As the program begins, so does a new friendship between the four of them, each different from the other, some of them will lead to simply falling in love!
I really enjoyed this book, it is definitely going to be one of my favourites, I do recommend this one because simply it is worth it!
This book will take you into the journey of four people: Hollyn, Daisy, Jace and Carter. they meet through a program called Dear Life that will help them cope with their problems. As the program begins, so does a new friendship between the four of them, each different from the other, some of them will lead to simply falling in love!
I really enjoyed this book, it is definitely going to be one of my favourites, I do recommend this one because simply it is worth it!
January 5, 2017
Dear Life by Meghan Quinn
5 stars!!!
What a way to start 2017! Meghan Quinn brings a totally different side to her writing ability in this book and from start to finish this book hit me where it hurts…in the heart. The raw emotion poured into every word was apparent in spades and you could tell that certain aspects of this book were written from the heart, from experiences both good and bad.
This book is an experience, a journey of four lives and you live and breathe every single one. No one character is superfluous, all stories are interlinked, all stories are explored in depth, both in plot and emotion. You feel everything, from pain, from laughter, from new experiences, from guilt and grief, to love. Meghan Quinn’s ever present wit is interspersed throughout and uplifts the story when you most need it as each character battles their past to find their present and future. This was a stunning story from start to finish, it is on the longer side, but no word was unwarranted, each word had presence, thought and meaning behind it and my only niggle…I didn’t want to leave these characters behind.
Dear Life is a story of healing for four characters, Hollyn, Jace, Daisy and Carter. Each character is battling something different and are united in their attendance at a self-help group called, Dear Life. Dear Life is like an AA meeting without the alcoholics. It is a place, where in confidence, you tackle life in general, tackle what is holding you back, work through your troubles, off load, get advice and make friends. This is a book of hope, a book of healing and a book of letting go.
Each character is different, unique and battling their own demons, but every character is lovable in their own way.
Hollyn, while seemingly brash and offensive on the outside is a woman drowning in guilt and grief on the inside. Her prickles are her defences and it will take someone special to trim those suckers down. Meghan Quinn portrayed Hollyn perfectly, no miracle cures, no instantaneous miraculous recovery, Hollyn was made to work for it and you are with her every step of the way.
Jace, OMG Jace, he brought me to my emotional knees. Jace is drowning in grief but in a totally different way to Hollyn. This man wears his heart on his sleeve and the blood that is currently pumping out of it is plain for all the see. Jace was perfect but more importantly he wasn’t afraid to show his emotions, he wore them like a badge of honour and a man totally in tune with his emotions is refreshing and honest. He was adorable with a capital A.
Daisy was the light and laughter to this group. Daisy was a twenty-one-year-old sheltered woman with no and I mean NO life experience. No friends, no electronics, no fashion, nothing, she was a young woman living a pensioner’s life and now Daisy needed to learn to live. Daisy is a total innocent in everything. She was adorkable in every single way, I just wanted to give her the biggest hugs.
Carter has the hugest chip on his shoulder, hates the hand he has been dealt and just hates life in general. Yes, he had been dealt a shit hand, but it could have been a lot worse and sometimes life has its own way of giving one huge life lesson, always with the best intentions. Carter needed to see the wood for the trees, would Dear Life afford him the opportunity?
This was a stunning book from start to finish, many tears were shed but many more smiles and laughs were given. This whole book is a life lesson, when life hands you lemons…you make lemonade. Look for the positives, embrace them, live for them. The past is just that, the past, learn from it, never forget it, but don’t let it determine your future and your happiness. This is one book I won’t be forgetting in a hurry. Amazing read. Loved everything about it. Four lives…four letters…but five huge shiny stars.
www.theromancecover.com
5 stars!!!
“Life is bigger than this, live it, love it…prove your existence.”
What a way to start 2017! Meghan Quinn brings a totally different side to her writing ability in this book and from start to finish this book hit me where it hurts…in the heart. The raw emotion poured into every word was apparent in spades and you could tell that certain aspects of this book were written from the heart, from experiences both good and bad.
“It’s not until you face your fears that you will finally be able to find acceptance.”
This book is an experience, a journey of four lives and you live and breathe every single one. No one character is superfluous, all stories are interlinked, all stories are explored in depth, both in plot and emotion. You feel everything, from pain, from laughter, from new experiences, from guilt and grief, to love. Meghan Quinn’s ever present wit is interspersed throughout and uplifts the story when you most need it as each character battles their past to find their present and future. This was a stunning story from start to finish, it is on the longer side, but no word was unwarranted, each word had presence, thought and meaning behind it and my only niggle…I didn’t want to leave these characters behind.
“I’m not going to devalue your feelings or emotions. You have the right to be mad, but be mad with a purpose. Be mad at the right thing.”
Dear Life is a story of healing for four characters, Hollyn, Jace, Daisy and Carter. Each character is battling something different and are united in their attendance at a self-help group called, Dear Life. Dear Life is like an AA meeting without the alcoholics. It is a place, where in confidence, you tackle life in general, tackle what is holding you back, work through your troubles, off load, get advice and make friends. This is a book of hope, a book of healing and a book of letting go.
Each character is different, unique and battling their own demons, but every character is lovable in their own way.
Hollyn, while seemingly brash and offensive on the outside is a woman drowning in guilt and grief on the inside. Her prickles are her defences and it will take someone special to trim those suckers down. Meghan Quinn portrayed Hollyn perfectly, no miracle cures, no instantaneous miraculous recovery, Hollyn was made to work for it and you are with her every step of the way.
Jace, OMG Jace, he brought me to my emotional knees. Jace is drowning in grief but in a totally different way to Hollyn. This man wears his heart on his sleeve and the blood that is currently pumping out of it is plain for all the see. Jace was perfect but more importantly he wasn’t afraid to show his emotions, he wore them like a badge of honour and a man totally in tune with his emotions is refreshing and honest. He was adorable with a capital A.
“I knew we were connected on a deeper level…I saw the same tortured look in your eyes in my reflection.”
Daisy was the light and laughter to this group. Daisy was a twenty-one-year-old sheltered woman with no and I mean NO life experience. No friends, no electronics, no fashion, nothing, she was a young woman living a pensioner’s life and now Daisy needed to learn to live. Daisy is a total innocent in everything. She was adorkable in every single way, I just wanted to give her the biggest hugs.
Carter has the hugest chip on his shoulder, hates the hand he has been dealt and just hates life in general. Yes, he had been dealt a shit hand, but it could have been a lot worse and sometimes life has its own way of giving one huge life lesson, always with the best intentions. Carter needed to see the wood for the trees, would Dear Life afford him the opportunity?
“She’s sunshine and rainbows; I’m rainclouds and puddles.”
This was a stunning book from start to finish, many tears were shed but many more smiles and laughs were given. This whole book is a life lesson, when life hands you lemons…you make lemonade. Look for the positives, embrace them, live for them. The past is just that, the past, learn from it, never forget it, but don’t let it determine your future and your happiness. This is one book I won’t be forgetting in a hurry. Amazing read. Loved everything about it. Four lives…four letters…but five huge shiny stars.
“Dear Life, Puffy paint? Fuck you. Carter.”
www.theromancecover.com
January 6, 2017
Beyond beautiful and heartfelt!
Dear Life was so much more than a romance. It was a love story in so many different ways. It was a story about growth, healing, and forgiveness. Forgiving yourself, and forgiving people who don't matter anymore. Learning to love yourself. Learning to trust yourself. God, it was just a little bit of everything.
At points I was crying because this story was so devastatingly beautiful. There were times I was swooning because the love in this story was so amazing in so many different ways. This story was so well rounded and multi-faceted. I can't explain enough how this is so much more than your average romance. Sure it has some naughty bits, and a bit of the angst any love story may have. This angst was just more meaningful.
Plus one of the characters stories just broke and healed my heart over and over. Such an amazing beautiful journey to watch, and read about.
Plus, Meghan's heartfelt "Dear Life" letter at the end. So real and so raw. It really shows her motivation behind this story, and the amount of truth behind the message.
Wonderful job.
Yes this review is vague. You'll just have to read this story to learn about the amazingness.
January 6, 2017
4 "Hope" Stars
4 Stories, 4 Letters, 4 Lives, 4 POV.
Dear Life,
F*ck you.
Carter
4 Stories, 4 Letters, 4 Lives, 4 POV.
Dear Life,
F*ck you.
Carter
December 28, 2016
It's hard to start this review because I'm still so raw from reading Dear Life. This book is one of those books that changes you. Different facets of the four main characters lives so completely shredded my heart and yet, the author still found a way to repair that tear just as life has a way of working out the kinks.
We evolve.
We grow.
We change.
Every experience we have molds our day to day lives. Being open to each experience and taking part actively is imperative to the outcome. Even when the worst we could imagine happens, we still survive. That's what I personally took from Dear Life, but there are so many beautiful lessons and four very complex characters to fall in love with.
I cannot accurately express how much this book affected me. Just know that when you read it, you will experience something very profound. After reading this I will spend my year actively trying to prove my existence each and every day.
"Dear Life has me in awe of Ms. Quinn's talent to tell such a gut-wrenching, life-altering and soul-rebuilding tale so eloquently. I'll never be the same after this story and neither will you." ~Audrey Carlan, #1 NYT Bestselling Author
We evolve.
We grow.
We change.
Every experience we have molds our day to day lives. Being open to each experience and taking part actively is imperative to the outcome. Even when the worst we could imagine happens, we still survive. That's what I personally took from Dear Life, but there are so many beautiful lessons and four very complex characters to fall in love with.
I cannot accurately express how much this book affected me. Just know that when you read it, you will experience something very profound. After reading this I will spend my year actively trying to prove my existence each and every day.
"Dear Life has me in awe of Ms. Quinn's talent to tell such a gut-wrenching, life-altering and soul-rebuilding tale so eloquently. I'll never be the same after this story and neither will you." ~Audrey Carlan, #1 NYT Bestselling Author
February 8, 2017
Dear Readers,
Meghan Quinn is known for being Queen of Rom Com. But with Dear Life, she has done something different. She has given us something poignant and thought provoking, something emotional and heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. Meghan has given us 4 characters who have nothing in common but the life that has been given to them. Each suffering from something that emotionally and physically cripples them from living life to the fullest. Enter the Dear Life program; a program that asks each character to look internally within themselves to prove their existence daily. And we, as the readers, are taken on each character's journey as they try to prove their existence, as they try to make decisions to better themselves and their future and most important as they truly live life as their life is meant to be lived.
I enjoyed these characters journeys, each giving perspective into what's important in life and in which made me think about my own life and how fragile and short life is - we need to prove our existence daily and we need to enjoy our lives and everything that has been given to us.
Dearest Readers - you will fall in love with Meghan's writing and storytelling in Dear Life as you see another side of this author that will touch your heart and soul <3
Meghan Quinn is known for being Queen of Rom Com. But with Dear Life, she has done something different. She has given us something poignant and thought provoking, something emotional and heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. Meghan has given us 4 characters who have nothing in common but the life that has been given to them. Each suffering from something that emotionally and physically cripples them from living life to the fullest. Enter the Dear Life program; a program that asks each character to look internally within themselves to prove their existence daily. And we, as the readers, are taken on each character's journey as they try to prove their existence, as they try to make decisions to better themselves and their future and most important as they truly live life as their life is meant to be lived.
I enjoyed these characters journeys, each giving perspective into what's important in life and in which made me think about my own life and how fragile and short life is - we need to prove our existence daily and we need to enjoy our lives and everything that has been given to us.
Dearest Readers - you will fall in love with Meghan's writing and storytelling in Dear Life as you see another side of this author that will touch your heart and soul <3
February 4, 2017
Dear Life,
You are a mystery that with the time we have we really won't be able to comprehend.
Each and every saying be it if life gives you lemons then you make lemonade or life throws you a curveball then...just to name a few but these at the best of times just aren't enough to get you through the day hell not even through an hour, a minute or even a second.
What dear life are you trying to teach us? Are we not looking at the big picture?
Why dear life do you pull the carpet from under our feet. I assume you don’t want us to be stagnant for the rest of your life.
In some ways you are cruel to us, in other ways you can give such joy and beauty that when the bad times we really know how to savour it. But in those darkest days seeing the light is hard.
You teach us love, hate, despair, heartache, laughter, what unconditional love is. What a means to make a sacrifice and dealing with the consequences of the choices that we make. To be angry, mad and pissed at the world. That life is fucked up in so many ways.
Life you aren’t fair and I don’t think you ever will be yet you can be fulfilling. Having a new motto in life of proving your existence. Well life how do we go about dealing with that?
With regards
Kate
A programme designed to deal with yourself and emotions to write a letter to your life does it really help? Four people take that step. Four entirely different people set out on a journey to figure it out. This is utterly unique with a list of emotions with characters that are so different but each offer one another a support system with ups and downs. Learning to grieve, learning to overcome your fear, learning to move on. To overcome trials and tribulations. To feel contentment dare I even say happiness. Steven Tyler said that “Life’s a journey not a destination”
This book made me feel a lot of things I didn’t want to feel. I laughed but mainly I felt the heartache and the pain that each person endured. Each and every character is unique in their own way and you have a run of emotions to cheering them on and being their biggest advocate.
For feeling a loss no matter how big or how small.
Making a sacrifice that not all could make for being selfless and offering someone else their deepest wishes and desires.
For the naïve girl who is sheltered to grow up who wants to experience life or wants to see a different reflection in the mirror.
For the guy that has the biggest chip on his shoulder and that his past defines him that the path he takes will make him or in the end break him.
Giving up a wonder but still although struggling being a reactive listener observant and taking nothing for granted.
The last letter of all the letters of this book explains a lot and it is a defining moment that the author shared with us. A therapy that we can all write letters to life with all of what we have experienced be it the negative or the positive and that we are not alone.
Book received in by The Social Butterfly PR exchange for an honest review.
Review can also be found @ http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
February 7, 2017
Dear Life
If years could be described as cookies, then 2016 would have been Raisin Oatmeal. It’s only a cookie in name, but we all know it’s more of a thinly veiled healthy snack. And when you’re knee deep into satan’s waterfall every month I doubt any woman has ever said: “Let me at those Raisin Oatmeals!” Just like these “cookies” the year was filled with unwanted surprises, weird textures and chewy bits but still you’re just grateful to be having a cookie.
This latest book by Meghan Quinn must have been your way of apologising. The sugary icing which promises that everything is not going to be horrible. A bit of hope amongst all the dried up old raisins. It’s the silver icing over the weird textury, raisiny, chewy mess that was life in 2016.
This book is a blend of hate and anger, off loss and pain, of sacrifice and letting things go, of new beginnings and endings but above all it is about HOPE. Meghan Quinn wove all these themes perfectly. (Though I doubt she did so with a Raisin Oatmeal in hand). This is a collection of stories about people who are excruciatingly relatable in their pain. I read this book with tears brimming in my eyes and swallowing sobs right up until the last letter – when I completely lost it and had an ugly cry that could rival both Oprah and Kim Kardashian.
Reading this book was the perfect way to start the New Year. It’s almost like a mirror holding up an image of all the emotions you’re capable of. Or a Google search history showing you all the interesting, sometimes weird and often ‘WTF’ things you’ve come across. Or like a recipe for the most delicious, most indulgent brownie imaginable. This book was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Of beautiful and ugly things. And sometimes it makes you laugh.
So, Dear Life, you’ve really fucked us in 2016, but this was a good apology. A promise that life can still be beautiful. Thank you for books. Thank you for Meghan Quinn. Thank you for brownies. Thank you for life.
Kitty
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
If years could be described as cookies, then 2016 would have been Raisin Oatmeal. It’s only a cookie in name, but we all know it’s more of a thinly veiled healthy snack. And when you’re knee deep into satan’s waterfall every month I doubt any woman has ever said: “Let me at those Raisin Oatmeals!” Just like these “cookies” the year was filled with unwanted surprises, weird textures and chewy bits but still you’re just grateful to be having a cookie.
This latest book by Meghan Quinn must have been your way of apologising. The sugary icing which promises that everything is not going to be horrible. A bit of hope amongst all the dried up old raisins. It’s the silver icing over the weird textury, raisiny, chewy mess that was life in 2016.
This book is a blend of hate and anger, off loss and pain, of sacrifice and letting things go, of new beginnings and endings but above all it is about HOPE. Meghan Quinn wove all these themes perfectly. (Though I doubt she did so with a Raisin Oatmeal in hand). This is a collection of stories about people who are excruciatingly relatable in their pain. I read this book with tears brimming in my eyes and swallowing sobs right up until the last letter – when I completely lost it and had an ugly cry that could rival both Oprah and Kim Kardashian.
Reading this book was the perfect way to start the New Year. It’s almost like a mirror holding up an image of all the emotions you’re capable of. Or a Google search history showing you all the interesting, sometimes weird and often ‘WTF’ things you’ve come across. Or like a recipe for the most delicious, most indulgent brownie imaginable. This book was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Of beautiful and ugly things. And sometimes it makes you laugh.
So, Dear Life, you’ve really fucked us in 2016, but this was a good apology. A promise that life can still be beautiful. Thank you for books. Thank you for Meghan Quinn. Thank you for brownies. Thank you for life.
Kitty
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
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