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The Forgotten Guide to Happiness
’WONDERFULLY UPLIFTING’ Trisha Ashley
Sometimes, happiness can be found where you least expect it…
Twenty-eight-year-old Lana Green has never been good at making friends. She’s perfectly happy to be left alone with her books. Or at least, that’s what she tells herself.
Nancy Ellis Hall was once a celebrated writer. Now eighty, she lives alone in her North London house, and thinks she’s doing just fine. But dementia is loosening Nancy’s grip on the world.
When Lana and Nancy become unconventional house mates, their lives will change in ways they never expected. But can an unusual friendship rescue two women who don’t realise they need to be saved?
An irresistible story of love, memory and the power of friendship that readers of The Keeper of Lost Things and The Lido will adore.
Sometimes, happiness can be found where you least expect it…
Twenty-eight-year-old Lana Green has never been good at making friends. She’s perfectly happy to be left alone with her books. Or at least, that’s what she tells herself.
Nancy Ellis Hall was once a celebrated writer. Now eighty, she lives alone in her North London house, and thinks she’s doing just fine. But dementia is loosening Nancy’s grip on the world.
When Lana and Nancy become unconventional house mates, their lives will change in ways they never expected. But can an unusual friendship rescue two women who don’t realise they need to be saved?
An irresistible story of love, memory and the power of friendship that readers of The Keeper of Lost Things and The Lido will adore.
320 pages, Paperback
Published August 9, 2018
100 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
July 26, 2018
This was a refreshing read about Lana, a struggling author, who befriends an elderly famous author, Nancy, who’s dealing with dementia. It’s a surprisingly light read, perfect for the beach or by the fire if in colder weather. Although there is some romance, it’s not done traditionally and I liked that most of the time it was on the back burner.
Lana’s character was both easy to like and get annoyed with simultaneously. She could be quite selfish, often thinking of only how things will help her, but she was also often very real and flawed in a way that was relatable. She also talked about the process of writing excessively and I could have done without that.
After her boyfriend Mark left her she finds herself struggling to make ends meet but soon an opportunity to help with Nancy presents itself.
Lana meets Jack, Nancy’s step-son, first and I really liked him. He was an amazing step-son and too good for Lana. The circumstances surrounding Nancy and his father’s relationship made him bitter toward love but he was still very sweet and “heroic.”
Nancy’s character was both endearing and heartbreaking. Dementia has definitely had its effect on her but she still had a gregarious personality. You could sense other’s frustration when handling her but also their love. Even being an elderly lady suffering from dementia she still had so much to offer.
I was really enjoying this story until about 65% through when Mark reappeared. Lana was angry and hurt earlier in the novel when her writing class had called her character (based on herself) weak and dependent. She thought of herself as brave and independent. Yet the second Mark walked back into her life (after breaking up with her over the phone and no contact for months), she’s ready to jump back into his arms.
Near the end I got a little confused because Lana would mention something that happened and then talk about how she’d write it and I couldn't always tell which was real and what she was saying she wrote for a book.
Overall this was a cute, quirky read with great side characters and a fun plot.
Lana’s character was both easy to like and get annoyed with simultaneously. She could be quite selfish, often thinking of only how things will help her, but she was also often very real and flawed in a way that was relatable. She also talked about the process of writing excessively and I could have done without that.
After her boyfriend Mark left her she finds herself struggling to make ends meet but soon an opportunity to help with Nancy presents itself.
Lana meets Jack, Nancy’s step-son, first and I really liked him. He was an amazing step-son and too good for Lana. The circumstances surrounding Nancy and his father’s relationship made him bitter toward love but he was still very sweet and “heroic.”
Nancy’s character was both endearing and heartbreaking. Dementia has definitely had its effect on her but she still had a gregarious personality. You could sense other’s frustration when handling her but also their love. Even being an elderly lady suffering from dementia she still had so much to offer.
I was really enjoying this story until about 65% through when Mark reappeared. Lana was angry and hurt earlier in the novel when her writing class had called her character (based on herself) weak and dependent. She thought of herself as brave and independent. Yet the second Mark walked back into her life (after breaking up with her over the phone and no contact for months), she’s ready to jump back into his arms.
Near the end I got a little confused because Lana would mention something that happened and then talk about how she’d write it and I couldn't always tell which was real and what she was saying she wrote for a book.
Overall this was a cute, quirky read with great side characters and a fun plot.
December 21, 2018
1/5 stars
Here is a case of a book that everybody seems to like (based on reviews) and I can’t find anything to like about it at all. Except the cover.
DNF at 71% because I don’t care anymore and never did to be honest, I’m surprised I pushed this far into it
______________________________
Ohh, pretty covers - how many times am I going to be hurt by you? Obviously the cover caught my eye. The description was very lovely, and I was expecting something along the lines of The Lido by Libby Page (loved that one!). But this wasn't anything like that. It probably wasn't meant to be anything like it, but I think my expectations got in the way.
I could tell from the very first pages that I wasn't going to like this book, but I kept giving it chances - hoping with all my heart that something would change my mind - but alas, that didn't happen.
My main problem was that I couldn't see the point of this book - not at 20%, not at 51% and not at 71%. I just didn't know why I was reading it and what the book was trying to make me feel. Because I didn't feel anything. Nothing. And if the book doesn't make you feel then what is even the point?
It didn't help that Lana wasn't a very interesting, or for that matter a nice main character to follow. And don't get me wrong, I love unlikable protagonists, but I just couldn't stand Lana. To start off she was as bland as white bread.
She was also very selfish, petty and "know it all". She tried teaching a class, but the students had way more insight on the subject than she did. She violated Nancy's privacy and read her journal because she selfishly hoped to find a story in there. I'm sure she was meant to come off as relatable to the readers, because she had so many flaws, but to me she didn't.
Because Lana was so self-centered the whole book had the voice of conceited stiffness. Everything she did was for self gain - all she cared about was her book, which in hind sight didn't sound like a good book at all.
The plot also didn't make much sense - a random guy encounter who offers to be her "hero" and they go on bunch of fake dates - that's just so unrealistic. Once again I'm sure the goal here was to come off as "sweet" and "different", but to me the whole thing was just weird.
I'm happy for all the people who enjoyed the book, but for me it lacked depth, and I just wasn't the fan of the whole thing altogether. It offered little nourishment and no emotional value to me and that is definitely something I look for in a book.
Big thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for providing me with a digital arc for review. All opinions are my own, honest and come from the heart.
My WEBSITE
My INSTAGRAM
My WORDPRESS BLOG
Here is a case of a book that everybody seems to like (based on reviews) and I can’t find anything to like about it at all. Except the cover.
DNF at 71% because I don’t care anymore and never did to be honest, I’m surprised I pushed this far into it
______________________________
Ohh, pretty covers - how many times am I going to be hurt by you? Obviously the cover caught my eye. The description was very lovely, and I was expecting something along the lines of The Lido by Libby Page (loved that one!). But this wasn't anything like that. It probably wasn't meant to be anything like it, but I think my expectations got in the way.
I could tell from the very first pages that I wasn't going to like this book, but I kept giving it chances - hoping with all my heart that something would change my mind - but alas, that didn't happen.
My main problem was that I couldn't see the point of this book - not at 20%, not at 51% and not at 71%. I just didn't know why I was reading it and what the book was trying to make me feel. Because I didn't feel anything. Nothing. And if the book doesn't make you feel then what is even the point?
It didn't help that Lana wasn't a very interesting, or for that matter a nice main character to follow. And don't get me wrong, I love unlikable protagonists, but I just couldn't stand Lana. To start off she was as bland as white bread.
She was also very selfish, petty and "know it all". She tried teaching a class, but the students had way more insight on the subject than she did. She violated Nancy's privacy and read her journal because she selfishly hoped to find a story in there. I'm sure she was meant to come off as relatable to the readers, because she had so many flaws, but to me she didn't.
Because Lana was so self-centered the whole book had the voice of conceited stiffness. Everything she did was for self gain - all she cared about was her book, which in hind sight didn't sound like a good book at all.
The plot also didn't make much sense - a random guy encounter who offers to be her "hero" and they go on bunch of fake dates - that's just so unrealistic. Once again I'm sure the goal here was to come off as "sweet" and "different", but to me the whole thing was just weird.
I'm happy for all the people who enjoyed the book, but for me it lacked depth, and I just wasn't the fan of the whole thing altogether. It offered little nourishment and no emotional value to me and that is definitely something I look for in a book.
Big thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for providing me with a digital arc for review. All opinions are my own, honest and come from the heart.
My WEBSITE
My INSTAGRAM
My WORDPRESS BLOG
June 7, 2018
4☆ A warm and inspiring read
Forgotten Guide to Happiness is a beautiful and heart warming read about friendship, love and relationships.
Lana is an Author. She has had a huge success with her first book she based on her whirlwind relationship with her boyfriend Mark.
However Mark has decided he no longer wants to be with Lana and breaks her heart.
Of course you would think writing a sequel would be easy, she just draws from all her pain and anguish.
But her publisher has other ideas. She said it's just too sad and she needs to start again.
Lana is heartbroken, broke and practically homeless.
Its here she meets Jack. She bumps into Jack in a nearby pub.
He tells her his step mother Nancy is also a writer. Which Lana simply shrugs off... little does she know Nancy will help change her life!
Jack tells Lana that he will be her inspiration and her next hero!
Oh wasn't he spot on!!
Nancy is a joy, with the onset of dementia and the authorities insisting she is becoming a danger to be left alone. Nancy and Lana move in together. Solves both problems.
I adored all 3 characters relationships.
But Nancy is by far my favourite. She was full of spirit, warmth and I really warmed to her.
Forgotten Guide to Happiness truly is a warm, beautiful read, it's tender and inspiring. The Characters are likeable and charismatic.
The writing really caught my attention, it was a fluid and captivating read that kept me turning pages.
The perfect read to snuggle up with!
Thank you to Avon Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Forgotten Guide to Happiness is a beautiful and heart warming read about friendship, love and relationships.
Lana is an Author. She has had a huge success with her first book she based on her whirlwind relationship with her boyfriend Mark.
However Mark has decided he no longer wants to be with Lana and breaks her heart.
Of course you would think writing a sequel would be easy, she just draws from all her pain and anguish.
But her publisher has other ideas. She said it's just too sad and she needs to start again.
Lana is heartbroken, broke and practically homeless.
Its here she meets Jack. She bumps into Jack in a nearby pub.
He tells her his step mother Nancy is also a writer. Which Lana simply shrugs off... little does she know Nancy will help change her life!
Jack tells Lana that he will be her inspiration and her next hero!
Oh wasn't he spot on!!
Nancy is a joy, with the onset of dementia and the authorities insisting she is becoming a danger to be left alone. Nancy and Lana move in together. Solves both problems.
I adored all 3 characters relationships.
But Nancy is by far my favourite. She was full of spirit, warmth and I really warmed to her.
Forgotten Guide to Happiness truly is a warm, beautiful read, it's tender and inspiring. The Characters are likeable and charismatic.
The writing really caught my attention, it was a fluid and captivating read that kept me turning pages.
The perfect read to snuggle up with!
Thank you to Avon Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
December 21, 2025
The start of the novel is the best part. The second half of the novel loses grip.
Pros:
1) The story: As a struggling author, one must feel somewhat connected to the main lead. Adding another plot of taking care of an eccentric 80-year-old was also nice.
2) Nancy: She's the 80-year-old lady who has dementia and she's actually the only character who brings fun into the novel.
3) The start: The initial 30-40% of the novel is nicely written with on-point situations, flair of writing, and characters.
Cons:
1) The lead: I find her frustrating. She has a million things in her head. Says one thing, does another. Not a good decision maker.
'Use of Filip' was quite repetitive and boring.
2) The tagline of the novel says "sometimes you need help remembering what really matters," but I don't think the lead understood that until 90% of the novel.
And even then, the scenes where the conclusions she comes to, like who she likes? What was the situation in the classroom? And more were neither powerful nor impactful.
3) There were so many attributes to the story: The struggling writer lead, the demented Nancy, The writing class, The romance, and more that the novel doesn't become one, as it fails to achieve perfection in any one of the categories.
It felt like they all started with a nice plan to include in the novel but afterwards the author just left them.
Pros:
1) The story: As a struggling author, one must feel somewhat connected to the main lead. Adding another plot of taking care of an eccentric 80-year-old was also nice.
2) Nancy: She's the 80-year-old lady who has dementia and she's actually the only character who brings fun into the novel.
3) The start: The initial 30-40% of the novel is nicely written with on-point situations, flair of writing, and characters.
Cons:
1) The lead: I find her frustrating. She has a million things in her head. Says one thing, does another. Not a good decision maker.
'Use of Filip' was quite repetitive and boring.
2) The tagline of the novel says "sometimes you need help remembering what really matters," but I don't think the lead understood that until 90% of the novel.
And even then, the scenes where the conclusions she comes to, like who she likes? What was the situation in the classroom? And more were neither powerful nor impactful.
3) There were so many attributes to the story: The struggling writer lead, the demented Nancy, The writing class, The romance, and more that the novel doesn't become one, as it fails to achieve perfection in any one of the categories.
It felt like they all started with a nice plan to include in the novel but afterwards the author just left them.
July 6, 2018
Very good surprise! I wasn't sure if I was going to like this book, I was a bit "afraid" to read it, and I am really happy that I did in the end! To be honest with you, at around 20% into the book I almost decided to gave up this book because I wasn't really sure about the writing style and if I was going to like it or not but I then I decided to go on with my read and a little after that I realized that I had a little gem between my hands! After the mark of 20% into the book, the story begins to be very interesting and then you can't stop turning the pages! I was totally addicted to that book! and the story is really beautiful! The characters are lovely, especially the ones of Nancy and Jack. And I really liked the end of the book! I recommend this novel!
June 11, 2018
Once again, I find myself reviewing a book I wouldn’t normally pick up. But I was swayed by the pretty cover and the book description and I’m chuffed to bits I decided to give this one a go.
Lana Green is an author who has written a romantic novel based on her own relationship with Mark. Unfortunately, writing the sequel turned into a bit of a nightmare when her soulmate abandoned her and her publisher rejects her manuscript. Lana needs a hero, a muse, and quickly before she runs out of money. As such, she is always looking for inspiration and setting the scene, so to speak, and it was fun following her thought processes and imagination.
Then Lana meets Jack, whose stepmother used to be a writer. Now eighty years old, Nancy Ellis Hall sadly suffers from dementia. When Lana moves in with her to keep her safe, an unexpected friendship develops that might just help Lana find happiness again. And a new novel.
Having a grandmother with dementia herself, I often found myself with a lump in my throat. However, this novel isn’t overwhelmingly sad. It is actually quite witty, most definitely uplifting and even more so, incredibly heartwarming. The author managed to tackle a serious illness like dementia in a light-hearted way that just felt right. Yes, there are tears but there is also laughter, as there is in real life, and ultimately it left me with a big smile on my face.
Sure, there were a few predicable moments but who cares? I most certainly didn’t because this wonderful novel is filled with the most fantastic, colourful and slightly quirky characters that each warmed my heart in their own very special ways and I thoroughly enjoyed the time I got to spend with them. Not just Lana and Nancy, but the secondary characters as well. Each and every one of them stands out in a way that adds that little something extra to the story.
The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is a truly delightful story about love, friendship and figuring out what matters the most. It wraps itself around you like a warm, comforting blanket and it made me chuckle, a little emotional at times but in the end, pretty happy.
Lana Green is an author who has written a romantic novel based on her own relationship with Mark. Unfortunately, writing the sequel turned into a bit of a nightmare when her soulmate abandoned her and her publisher rejects her manuscript. Lana needs a hero, a muse, and quickly before she runs out of money. As such, she is always looking for inspiration and setting the scene, so to speak, and it was fun following her thought processes and imagination.
Then Lana meets Jack, whose stepmother used to be a writer. Now eighty years old, Nancy Ellis Hall sadly suffers from dementia. When Lana moves in with her to keep her safe, an unexpected friendship develops that might just help Lana find happiness again. And a new novel.
Having a grandmother with dementia herself, I often found myself with a lump in my throat. However, this novel isn’t overwhelmingly sad. It is actually quite witty, most definitely uplifting and even more so, incredibly heartwarming. The author managed to tackle a serious illness like dementia in a light-hearted way that just felt right. Yes, there are tears but there is also laughter, as there is in real life, and ultimately it left me with a big smile on my face.
Sure, there were a few predicable moments but who cares? I most certainly didn’t because this wonderful novel is filled with the most fantastic, colourful and slightly quirky characters that each warmed my heart in their own very special ways and I thoroughly enjoyed the time I got to spend with them. Not just Lana and Nancy, but the secondary characters as well. Each and every one of them stands out in a way that adds that little something extra to the story.
The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is a truly delightful story about love, friendship and figuring out what matters the most. It wraps itself around you like a warm, comforting blanket and it made me chuckle, a little emotional at times but in the end, pretty happy.
August 13, 2018
I'm not sure how to rate this. The story was ticking along quite nicely, although I can't say I really warmed to the protagonist. I found her quite selfish and unlikeable. However, we then get a certain event around 100 pages from the end and it had me absolutely infuriated! I couldn't believe what I was reading; I wanted to give Lana a shake.
I did, however, like Nancy's character; though part of me feels like she wasn't utilised as much as she could have been? She was a little lost at times in all of Lana's crap and I feel like she deserved more!
The 'how to be a hero' theme was a nice idea - maybe that should have been the title instead? I don't really know why the book is called The Forgotten Guide to Happiness. Maybe I missed the point.
I feel like this one won't stay with me - and if it does, it will be with feelings of annoyance rather than positivity!
I did, however, like Nancy's character; though part of me feels like she wasn't utilised as much as she could have been? She was a little lost at times in all of Lana's crap and I feel like she deserved more!
The 'how to be a hero' theme was a nice idea - maybe that should have been the title instead? I don't really know why the book is called The Forgotten Guide to Happiness. Maybe I missed the point.
I feel like this one won't stay with me - and if it does, it will be with feelings of annoyance rather than positivity!
August 26, 2018
My Thoughts
‘... It’s not what you’ll do for love, but what you’ll give up. This was my test and I wasn’t going to make the same mistake this time.’
The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is enjoyable and heartwarming with its touching storyline, solid characters and an easy to read writing style. It is most definitely not the typical formula for a romance book, which was good. There are a range of tales to be told here, that will undoubtedly engage you on more than one level.
‘Love. What was it all about? I thought about my dad and Jo-Ann’s unlikely alliance and whether love amounted to nothing more than finding someone you could watch Netflix with.’
The main character Lana is ‘challenging’, but her flaws are what make her more real. She is a writer searching for a subject for her next book, after her initial book about her whirlwind romance with a travel photographer was a hit. In her search for a story/hero (plus a search for a place to stay and money to pay for things) she befriends a famous feminist novelist from years gone by, who is suffering with dementia and the stepson that cares for her. So you see, apart from Lana’s journey, there is the journey of Nancy and her battle with dementia, plus Jack and his saddened view of love. More than the one proverbial string to this bow as I stated.
‘It’s not right, is it? What are we saving her from, Lana? What are we saving her for? So that she can live a long old age locked up in a place that’s not her own?’
The story was travelling along pleasantly enough until just over the halfway mark when, in my view, Lana completely lost the plot. I know .... I know ... it was her journey, her lessons to be learnt - but seriously! For all her complaining, this particular event was a little hard to swallow. This twist in the tale did not make sense to me at all. It was like Lana became a completely different person. This is where the story lost its way a bit for me.
‘We both had our baggage, and even though it wasn’t actually matching, it was definitely the same brand.’
The characters that kept me engaged to the end were Nancy and Jack. He is a good soul with so much heart. Nancy added the flamboyance to the tale and more of her story would have been beneficial to the overall storyline. Not only her history, but her battle with dementia and its impact on those around her. Overall a good tale about love and the power of friendships.
‘These are the reasons that I like to write: it’s safe. It’s so much easier to make sense of the world in fiction, where there are rules and regulations and the writer has total control over people’s actions. The problem I’ve always had with real life is, you never know what’s going to happen.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘... It’s not what you’ll do for love, but what you’ll give up. This was my test and I wasn’t going to make the same mistake this time.’
The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is enjoyable and heartwarming with its touching storyline, solid characters and an easy to read writing style. It is most definitely not the typical formula for a romance book, which was good. There are a range of tales to be told here, that will undoubtedly engage you on more than one level.
‘Love. What was it all about? I thought about my dad and Jo-Ann’s unlikely alliance and whether love amounted to nothing more than finding someone you could watch Netflix with.’
The main character Lana is ‘challenging’, but her flaws are what make her more real. She is a writer searching for a subject for her next book, after her initial book about her whirlwind romance with a travel photographer was a hit. In her search for a story/hero (plus a search for a place to stay and money to pay for things) she befriends a famous feminist novelist from years gone by, who is suffering with dementia and the stepson that cares for her. So you see, apart from Lana’s journey, there is the journey of Nancy and her battle with dementia, plus Jack and his saddened view of love. More than the one proverbial string to this bow as I stated.
‘It’s not right, is it? What are we saving her from, Lana? What are we saving her for? So that she can live a long old age locked up in a place that’s not her own?’
The story was travelling along pleasantly enough until just over the halfway mark when, in my view, Lana completely lost the plot. I know .... I know ... it was her journey, her lessons to be learnt - but seriously! For all her complaining, this particular event was a little hard to swallow. This twist in the tale did not make sense to me at all. It was like Lana became a completely different person. This is where the story lost its way a bit for me.
‘We both had our baggage, and even though it wasn’t actually matching, it was definitely the same brand.’
The characters that kept me engaged to the end were Nancy and Jack. He is a good soul with so much heart. Nancy added the flamboyance to the tale and more of her story would have been beneficial to the overall storyline. Not only her history, but her battle with dementia and its impact on those around her. Overall a good tale about love and the power of friendships.
‘These are the reasons that I like to write: it’s safe. It’s so much easier to make sense of the world in fiction, where there are rules and regulations and the writer has total control over people’s actions. The problem I’ve always had with real life is, you never know what’s going to happen.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
January 7, 2019
Sometimes it takes a few chapters before you start to really get into a book and the characters. With this book that didn't happen. It actually happened right from page 1! For a book to grab me straight away is quite unusual but thats what The Forgotten Guide to Happiness did. The main character Lana was just so engaging and likeable that I immediately warmed to her despite her desperation to cling onto her failed relationship. We've all been there and know that a broken heart completely messes with your brain.
Lana is a writer and her first book, based on her relationship with her boyfriend becomes an instant hit. Book 2 however not so much and it bombs just as much as the relationship finally did. For someone whose sole income is through their writing, this is not good news and Lana is forced to re-evaluate her life. Being completely broke will do that to you! A chance encounter in a pub with Jack who has his own set of problems with his step-mother Nancy who has dementia, soon sees Lana's life take an unexpected path, forming a friendship with the wonderfully quirky Nancy who I thought was just an amazing character with so much to offer Lana. Could Jack be Lana's new hero? Could Nancy? I found them both adorable! What super characters.
After reading this book I'm definitely a Sophie Jenkins fan. The writing is so beautiful and funny at the same time and completely immerses you in the story. Yes at times its often heartbreaking but its a story full of hope, love and a realization that our lives have many dimensions and often don't work out the way we'd expected or hoped but that's ok. Life is also about new opportunities and finding beauty in things we never expected. Sometimes its the small things that matter the most and love can be found where we least expect it. A brilliant book and a highly recommended read from me!
Lana is a writer and her first book, based on her relationship with her boyfriend becomes an instant hit. Book 2 however not so much and it bombs just as much as the relationship finally did. For someone whose sole income is through their writing, this is not good news and Lana is forced to re-evaluate her life. Being completely broke will do that to you! A chance encounter in a pub with Jack who has his own set of problems with his step-mother Nancy who has dementia, soon sees Lana's life take an unexpected path, forming a friendship with the wonderfully quirky Nancy who I thought was just an amazing character with so much to offer Lana. Could Jack be Lana's new hero? Could Nancy? I found them both adorable! What super characters.
After reading this book I'm definitely a Sophie Jenkins fan. The writing is so beautiful and funny at the same time and completely immerses you in the story. Yes at times its often heartbreaking but its a story full of hope, love and a realization that our lives have many dimensions and often don't work out the way we'd expected or hoped but that's ok. Life is also about new opportunities and finding beauty in things we never expected. Sometimes its the small things that matter the most and love can be found where we least expect it. A brilliant book and a highly recommended read from me!
May 20, 2018
Thank you Netgalley and Avon books for a copy of this book.
Lana Green is a bestselling author of a book about her relationship with Mark. When Mark dumps her. She is left broke and can’t afford the flat she is living in. She meets Jack Buchanan and Nancy Ellis Hall and her life changed for ever. Jack is her pretend boyfriend so she can get her mojo back so, she can write her next book. In the meantime, she takes a job as a lecturer at the literary society for upcoming authors.
She moves in with Nancy Ellis Hall to get inspiration and to be her Carer, as Nancy has dementia and to keep her from going into a care home. Jack is Nancy’s Step son.
I was really enjoyed this story and I loved he character of Nancy How eccentric she was. But, when old flame Mark came back into Lana’s life I thought that the story lost its way and I thought I was reading a completely different book. 3 stars from me.
Lana Green is a bestselling author of a book about her relationship with Mark. When Mark dumps her. She is left broke and can’t afford the flat she is living in. She meets Jack Buchanan and Nancy Ellis Hall and her life changed for ever. Jack is her pretend boyfriend so she can get her mojo back so, she can write her next book. In the meantime, she takes a job as a lecturer at the literary society for upcoming authors.
She moves in with Nancy Ellis Hall to get inspiration and to be her Carer, as Nancy has dementia and to keep her from going into a care home. Jack is Nancy’s Step son.
I was really enjoyed this story and I loved he character of Nancy How eccentric she was. But, when old flame Mark came back into Lana’s life I thought that the story lost its way and I thought I was reading a completely different book. 3 stars from me.
November 19, 2018
Reading this book felt like having a very long chat with a friend after I hadn't seen her for a while.
Novelist Lana's struggles to write her second book. While trying to find inspiration she meets Jack, who offers to be her fictional hero. They go on a few fake dates, but since both don't believe in love it's just for the sake of Lana's book.
When Lana moves in with Jack's 80 y/o step mother, who used to be a successful author, but is suffering from dementia, things get interesting and funny.
Novelist Lana's struggles to write her second book. While trying to find inspiration she meets Jack, who offers to be her fictional hero. They go on a few fake dates, but since both don't believe in love it's just for the sake of Lana's book.
When Lana moves in with Jack's 80 y/o step mother, who used to be a successful author, but is suffering from dementia, things get interesting and funny.
July 14, 2018
Unbearable
This was an empty sort of read, for me. It fell flat and its climax and its resolution was incredibly rushed. But I think my disappointment was, also, in part because the title 'The Forgotten Guide To Happiness' held such promise. You would think the book would be uplifting, possibly life-changing. For a fiction novel especially, you would think there will be incredible depth to the lessons it contains...
It wasn't even close to what I expected. And the only lesson I learnt was, don't read too much into a title and don't pick a book because of its title.
A bit about the book: Lana Green is an author, she's struggling to write a sequel after the success of her debut novel. She had written about her relationship. Trouble is, the relationship is over: he is now her ex. She needs a new hero and is looking to be inspired. Along comes Jack, a cynic more than a hopeless romantic. He believes love without all the drama is the ideal kind of love and he is determined, for reasons that remain unknown, to be Lana's hero. They grow closer when Lana opts to house-share with Nancy, Jack's eccentric stepmother.
For me, aside from the overall lacking depth in the writing and the story, I couldn't understand some of the motivations of the characters. Jack, for example. Why did he feel it necessary to change Lana's view on love? The reader never gets to know his character- but it's more of an oversight than an attempt to create some mystery.
I think anyone who reads this book will agree that Nancy is perhaps the most well thought out character. Lana, I think, is a bit egotistical. She's not horrible about it but she overestimates her self-worth. This is not bad, alone, but it wasn't ideal when she's the narrator of the story. She also doesn't have very many friends which isn't explained- and so it reads as though she only made friends once she began to suffer with a writing block. It wasn't plausible, even if I was irritated by her personality. There were other minor flaws- both she and her ex were proud of maintaining their independence but she readily accepts Jack when he rejects this. Also, when she was seeing her ex, she would agree with him completely and claim his words were logical. She couldn't really stand up nor think for herself and no one helped her realise this.
Or again, it's very possible that I'm reading too much into this ;)
I received this book from Netgalley.
This was an empty sort of read, for me. It fell flat and its climax and its resolution was incredibly rushed. But I think my disappointment was, also, in part because the title 'The Forgotten Guide To Happiness' held such promise. You would think the book would be uplifting, possibly life-changing. For a fiction novel especially, you would think there will be incredible depth to the lessons it contains...
It wasn't even close to what I expected. And the only lesson I learnt was, don't read too much into a title and don't pick a book because of its title.
A bit about the book: Lana Green is an author, she's struggling to write a sequel after the success of her debut novel. She had written about her relationship. Trouble is, the relationship is over: he is now her ex. She needs a new hero and is looking to be inspired. Along comes Jack, a cynic more than a hopeless romantic. He believes love without all the drama is the ideal kind of love and he is determined, for reasons that remain unknown, to be Lana's hero. They grow closer when Lana opts to house-share with Nancy, Jack's eccentric stepmother.
For me, aside from the overall lacking depth in the writing and the story, I couldn't understand some of the motivations of the characters. Jack, for example. Why did he feel it necessary to change Lana's view on love? The reader never gets to know his character- but it's more of an oversight than an attempt to create some mystery.
I think anyone who reads this book will agree that Nancy is perhaps the most well thought out character. Lana, I think, is a bit egotistical. She's not horrible about it but she overestimates her self-worth. This is not bad, alone, but it wasn't ideal when she's the narrator of the story. She also doesn't have very many friends which isn't explained- and so it reads as though she only made friends once she began to suffer with a writing block. It wasn't plausible, even if I was irritated by her personality. There were other minor flaws- both she and her ex were proud of maintaining their independence but she readily accepts Jack when he rejects this. Also, when she was seeing her ex, she would agree with him completely and claim his words were logical. She couldn't really stand up nor think for herself and no one helped her realise this.
Or again, it's very possible that I'm reading too much into this ;)
I received this book from Netgalley.
July 27, 2018
*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Lana Green is a writer, who is now trying to write her second book, after having successfully published Love Crazy. It was based on her real life experiences and now that her boyfriend is gone, with no goal to come back anytime soon, she doesn’t know what to write about. Lana doesn’t know what to do and her financial problems don’t help at all.
Lana starts looking after Nancy Ellis Hall, a once successful writer, who suffers from dementia now. She also starts spending a lot of time with Nancy’s stepson Jack. The two of them get along really well and I really adored their scenes and moments together. He made her enjoy life again and she finally had something to write about again. I definitely felt a chemistry between them, but for Lana it wasn’t an obvious connection at all. It all gets destroyed when her former boyfriend Mark comes back.
Lana also started teaching literary classes, where she made new friends. When Mark is back, she just goes back to him, as if nothing happened. That’s where I kind of lost interest in the book, because I didn’t understand her decision and her actions.
The characters, who kept me in the book were Jack and Nancy. He was a lovely character, with a great heart and a lot of passion. Nancy is so sweet and I think the author found a great way to include dementia in this story.
The ending was a bit confusing in my eyes and I just couldn’t find a connection to Lana anymore.
Sophie Jenkins writing is cute, quirky and enjoyable, but I really struggled with the flow of the story.
Lana Green is a writer, who is now trying to write her second book, after having successfully published Love Crazy. It was based on her real life experiences and now that her boyfriend is gone, with no goal to come back anytime soon, she doesn’t know what to write about. Lana doesn’t know what to do and her financial problems don’t help at all.
Lana starts looking after Nancy Ellis Hall, a once successful writer, who suffers from dementia now. She also starts spending a lot of time with Nancy’s stepson Jack. The two of them get along really well and I really adored their scenes and moments together. He made her enjoy life again and she finally had something to write about again. I definitely felt a chemistry between them, but for Lana it wasn’t an obvious connection at all. It all gets destroyed when her former boyfriend Mark comes back.
Lana also started teaching literary classes, where she made new friends. When Mark is back, she just goes back to him, as if nothing happened. That’s where I kind of lost interest in the book, because I didn’t understand her decision and her actions.
The characters, who kept me in the book were Jack and Nancy. He was a lovely character, with a great heart and a lot of passion. Nancy is so sweet and I think the author found a great way to include dementia in this story.
The ending was a bit confusing in my eyes and I just couldn’t find a connection to Lana anymore.
Sophie Jenkins writing is cute, quirky and enjoyable, but I really struggled with the flow of the story.
June 10, 2018
When I began to read Sophie Jenkins' The Forgotten Guide to Happiness, I thought the book had been printed in the wrong order as the very first page starts with chapter 40 of a book which sounded to me like it should have been at the end. I'll admit I found this slightly confusing to start with but then I presumed this would resolve itself by the conclusion of the story. I needn't have worried myself unnecessarily so early on as within a few pages all did become clear and I could see why the author began the book the way she did. This début novel from Sophie Jenkins follows Lana Green as she begins to forge a new path in life and in doing so finds happiness in the most unexpected of places but in the most delightful of ways.
Lana is a writer and has attempted to write her second book following on from the success of her début Love Crazy. The only problem being her first novel was based on her own real life experiences and now that her personal life has taken a nose dive, she can only write about what she knows and as Kitty, Lana's agent, says people want to read of love and romance not sadness and rejection. Lana has written a full length draft of book two and is hopeful of approval and to get the go ahead for publication but Kitty has more or less tossed the manuscript to one side and told Lana to start all over again. How devastating for Lana particularly as she feels she gave the writing of the book her all. Kitty feels the story is too bleak and depressing and one which readers will not rush out to buy. Lana is told in no uncertain terms that there is a simple formula one which should be adhered to if an author wants to have a successful career and make some money. The storyline should go like this - love, it goes wrong, they get back together, happy ending and Lana should not deviate from this no matter what way her thoughts drift.
I felt Lana was brave not to give up on her dream and that she did want to continue to pursue her writing career but given her perilous financial situation and the fact she has been more or less abandoned by boyfriend Mark, also the star of her début novel, she really was faced with no other choice but to get on with things. If that meant compromising the content of what she was writing, was she willing to do so? Does she agree with the prescribed formula but finding a storyline to even begin the writing process once again would prove very challenging. At times I thought Lana was full of enthusiasm and could make a go of things and then at other points, her lack of just sitting down to write and getting a story down on paper began to frustrate me. But on refection maybe she needed to do everything she experienced and to encounter the people she did in order for the words to flow in such a way that would satisfy both herself, Kitty and her readers.
There were a lot of hidden layers to the story and by this I felt there was a lot of reading between the lines for the reader to figure out the overall picture and really understand the thoughts, feelings, actions and inner workings of the characters hearts and minds. This book in no way was your typical love story, the kind that Kitty wanted Lana to write, and I think it was better overall for it but I do feel the ending the ending was very long winded and as is mentioned with regard to finishing up books within the story itself the ending is reached but then four or five more are included. That's what I thought here but apart from this The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is a very good read with love and finding your happy place in life at its centre.
When Lana meets Jack Buchanan, as she sits pondering her next move over a drink, little does she realise this meeting will be the catalyst that will eventually inspire her. That everything that occurs from now on will see her change her outlook on life, her overall attitude and her perceptions with regard to people and situations. Maybe now is the time when she can come out from under the cloud that Mark has enshrouded her in ever since he failed to return from an assignment he was on as something better seemed to have cropped up. In my mind, Lana was far too bogged down in pining for Mark, who himself seemed to have no regard for her. If he could move on, she needed to as well and as her private life had been traumatic and what she classed as a failure now was the time to do it. Lana believes she needs to find a new hero for her book. But what is a hero? Do they have certain criteria? Or do they just walk off the page to meet you fully formed?
Jack offers his services but she seemed to initially give him short shrift but I enjoyed how he never gave up on Lana but was subtle in the way he went about this. We don't need a bolshy, in your face, perfectly formed male character in every book we read that has a focus on romance. No, sometimes it's nice to have someone who is unobtrusive yet supportive, loyal and kind. Jack never forced himself forward but I did suspect what his long term goals were and wondered would the clouds clear and allow her to see what was right in front of her eyes? Jack takes Lana to meet his stepmother Nancy Ellis Hall, herself once a famous writer and feminist whose own love story throws up so many questions. Lana very much admires Nancy but she is not herself any more, the onset of dementia means she is not the person she one was. How can Lana reach beneath the layers of confusion and endless repetitive questions to discover the real Nancy who surely remains beneath the fog of confusion?
As Lana moves in with Nancy in a kind of carer role, the book took on a lovely feeling and it became a catalyst in the writing process for Lana that she hadn't realised she needed to go through. Nancy was a brilliantly written character. Yes it was sad that a disease was taking her away from those that loved her but her eccentricities provided many laugh out loud moments and I thought everything was dealt with sensitivity and tact. Yes the friendship that develops between the women many would class as unusual but instead the way the story was written it felt natural and realistic. As things developed more both Nancy and Lana really endear themselves to the reader. Although, I can't say the decision Lana made at the halfway point did the same and I think many others will form the same opinion. Just when you think someone has finally understood what their place in life should be and that maybe happiness is right there within reach only for them to do something that has the reader screaming in frustration. I understand why the author did this at this point yet I lost some respect for Lana and I think she realised this herself once she began to see the wood for the trees.
Overall The Forgotten Guide to Happiness was a lovely read and a very promising début. It did become slightly repetitive in the mid part before the story picked up pace again and I have mentioned my issue with the ending. But pushing these issues to one side there within lies a beautiful story with a lovely message and people will enjoy the character of Lana as she navigates her way to finding happiness and to discover does a hero lie within her reach.
Lana is a writer and has attempted to write her second book following on from the success of her début Love Crazy. The only problem being her first novel was based on her own real life experiences and now that her personal life has taken a nose dive, she can only write about what she knows and as Kitty, Lana's agent, says people want to read of love and romance not sadness and rejection. Lana has written a full length draft of book two and is hopeful of approval and to get the go ahead for publication but Kitty has more or less tossed the manuscript to one side and told Lana to start all over again. How devastating for Lana particularly as she feels she gave the writing of the book her all. Kitty feels the story is too bleak and depressing and one which readers will not rush out to buy. Lana is told in no uncertain terms that there is a simple formula one which should be adhered to if an author wants to have a successful career and make some money. The storyline should go like this - love, it goes wrong, they get back together, happy ending and Lana should not deviate from this no matter what way her thoughts drift.
I felt Lana was brave not to give up on her dream and that she did want to continue to pursue her writing career but given her perilous financial situation and the fact she has been more or less abandoned by boyfriend Mark, also the star of her début novel, she really was faced with no other choice but to get on with things. If that meant compromising the content of what she was writing, was she willing to do so? Does she agree with the prescribed formula but finding a storyline to even begin the writing process once again would prove very challenging. At times I thought Lana was full of enthusiasm and could make a go of things and then at other points, her lack of just sitting down to write and getting a story down on paper began to frustrate me. But on refection maybe she needed to do everything she experienced and to encounter the people she did in order for the words to flow in such a way that would satisfy both herself, Kitty and her readers.
There were a lot of hidden layers to the story and by this I felt there was a lot of reading between the lines for the reader to figure out the overall picture and really understand the thoughts, feelings, actions and inner workings of the characters hearts and minds. This book in no way was your typical love story, the kind that Kitty wanted Lana to write, and I think it was better overall for it but I do feel the ending the ending was very long winded and as is mentioned with regard to finishing up books within the story itself the ending is reached but then four or five more are included. That's what I thought here but apart from this The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is a very good read with love and finding your happy place in life at its centre.
When Lana meets Jack Buchanan, as she sits pondering her next move over a drink, little does she realise this meeting will be the catalyst that will eventually inspire her. That everything that occurs from now on will see her change her outlook on life, her overall attitude and her perceptions with regard to people and situations. Maybe now is the time when she can come out from under the cloud that Mark has enshrouded her in ever since he failed to return from an assignment he was on as something better seemed to have cropped up. In my mind, Lana was far too bogged down in pining for Mark, who himself seemed to have no regard for her. If he could move on, she needed to as well and as her private life had been traumatic and what she classed as a failure now was the time to do it. Lana believes she needs to find a new hero for her book. But what is a hero? Do they have certain criteria? Or do they just walk off the page to meet you fully formed?
Jack offers his services but she seemed to initially give him short shrift but I enjoyed how he never gave up on Lana but was subtle in the way he went about this. We don't need a bolshy, in your face, perfectly formed male character in every book we read that has a focus on romance. No, sometimes it's nice to have someone who is unobtrusive yet supportive, loyal and kind. Jack never forced himself forward but I did suspect what his long term goals were and wondered would the clouds clear and allow her to see what was right in front of her eyes? Jack takes Lana to meet his stepmother Nancy Ellis Hall, herself once a famous writer and feminist whose own love story throws up so many questions. Lana very much admires Nancy but she is not herself any more, the onset of dementia means she is not the person she one was. How can Lana reach beneath the layers of confusion and endless repetitive questions to discover the real Nancy who surely remains beneath the fog of confusion?
As Lana moves in with Nancy in a kind of carer role, the book took on a lovely feeling and it became a catalyst in the writing process for Lana that she hadn't realised she needed to go through. Nancy was a brilliantly written character. Yes it was sad that a disease was taking her away from those that loved her but her eccentricities provided many laugh out loud moments and I thought everything was dealt with sensitivity and tact. Yes the friendship that develops between the women many would class as unusual but instead the way the story was written it felt natural and realistic. As things developed more both Nancy and Lana really endear themselves to the reader. Although, I can't say the decision Lana made at the halfway point did the same and I think many others will form the same opinion. Just when you think someone has finally understood what their place in life should be and that maybe happiness is right there within reach only for them to do something that has the reader screaming in frustration. I understand why the author did this at this point yet I lost some respect for Lana and I think she realised this herself once she began to see the wood for the trees.
Overall The Forgotten Guide to Happiness was a lovely read and a very promising début. It did become slightly repetitive in the mid part before the story picked up pace again and I have mentioned my issue with the ending. But pushing these issues to one side there within lies a beautiful story with a lovely message and people will enjoy the character of Lana as she navigates her way to finding happiness and to discover does a hero lie within her reach.
June 4, 2018
I have to be honest and admit that I wasn’t quite sure of what to expect with this book. I read the synopsis and it certainly sounded intriguing, but I was sort of unsure as to whether or not a book featuring a character with dementia could be funny and uplifting. In this case I was more than happy to be proved wrong. I absolutely loved this book but more about that in a bit.
I loved the character of Lana and I really felt for her. Lana is a writer who has already written one bestselling book but the beginning of the book sees her with a serious case of writer’s block. She has a finished manuscript but her agent decides that it is complete tosh. So back to square one for Lana. Lana used her relationship with Mark as a basis for her bestselling book. Whilst she has been writing this second book, Mark is abroad and having a good time. Lana is looking forward to Mark coming home but he decides to remain on his travels for a bit longer. Mark was a real tactless and at times heartless man. Lana has waited in the airport arrivals lounge for Mark to arrive and all the passengers from his flight have collected their luggage and it isn’t until she rings Mark that she finds out what’s what. As Lana has writer’s block and her second novel has been tossed out, she realises that she needs to get an income from somewhere and so she takes a job at the local college in teaching creative writing. She excels at this and by the end of the book her class have formed a close bond and they are friends. At the same time she also realises that she needs to find a cheaper flat to help her almost empty bank account. She knows that a flat share would be even cheaper and she ends up applying for a flat share with an elderly person, which would benefit them both. She becomes acquainted with Jack, who she met in a pub and who has a step mother called Nancy, who is suffering with dementia. It is suggested that Nancy go into a home but the compromise is reached where she remains in her home but that Lana will move in with her. Lana is stunned to realise that Nancy is actually an author who Lana and her mother adored. It isn’t long until Lana’s writing block is a thing of the past. I absolutely loved the friendship that developed between Lana and Nancy. I loved the character of Nancy too. She is one feisty and determined lady, who has dementia but she doesn’t let that hold her back and she certainly doesn’t let it stop her writing. She gets herself into some scrapes too.
This is one book that really surprised me. I don’t mean that to sound nasty as it really isn’t meant that way. This book actually looks at dementia and how it affects somebody in an amusing way and shows that a life with dementia doesn’t have to be overly negative or serious. I really liked this way of dealing with the disease. My Great Aunt suffered with dementia and it was heartbreaking to watch her decline but along the way we did have some tears but we also had some laughs.
The author’s writing style is such that drew my attention from the start and it wasn’t too long until I became addicted to reading ‘The Forgotten Guide To Happiness’. I just had to keep reading on and on to see what happened next in Lana’s life and whether or not she got the happy ever after that she so deserved. I also loved reading about the escapades that Nancy and Lana got up to. Not only were they extremely good friends but they were a great team too. I didn’t notice how quickly the page numbers were flying past until the moment I closed the back cover. I had mixed feelings about finishing the book. Don’t get me wrong I was pleased to finish because I knew how the story ended but at the same time I was disappointed to finish because I was enjoying the writing style and the story so much that I just wanted the book to continue. By the time I finished reading the book I did feel as though I had been through a bit of an emotional wringer. Parts of the book made me want to cry, made me want to shout, made me laugh out loud and well you get the picture.
To conclude I am so glad that I had the chance to read this book. I know that it is a work of fiction but as I mentioned above, there is a serious side to it. ‘The Forgotten Guide To Happiness’ has certainly given me a lot to think about. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to other readers. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this fantastic author. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I loved the character of Lana and I really felt for her. Lana is a writer who has already written one bestselling book but the beginning of the book sees her with a serious case of writer’s block. She has a finished manuscript but her agent decides that it is complete tosh. So back to square one for Lana. Lana used her relationship with Mark as a basis for her bestselling book. Whilst she has been writing this second book, Mark is abroad and having a good time. Lana is looking forward to Mark coming home but he decides to remain on his travels for a bit longer. Mark was a real tactless and at times heartless man. Lana has waited in the airport arrivals lounge for Mark to arrive and all the passengers from his flight have collected their luggage and it isn’t until she rings Mark that she finds out what’s what. As Lana has writer’s block and her second novel has been tossed out, she realises that she needs to get an income from somewhere and so she takes a job at the local college in teaching creative writing. She excels at this and by the end of the book her class have formed a close bond and they are friends. At the same time she also realises that she needs to find a cheaper flat to help her almost empty bank account. She knows that a flat share would be even cheaper and she ends up applying for a flat share with an elderly person, which would benefit them both. She becomes acquainted with Jack, who she met in a pub and who has a step mother called Nancy, who is suffering with dementia. It is suggested that Nancy go into a home but the compromise is reached where she remains in her home but that Lana will move in with her. Lana is stunned to realise that Nancy is actually an author who Lana and her mother adored. It isn’t long until Lana’s writing block is a thing of the past. I absolutely loved the friendship that developed between Lana and Nancy. I loved the character of Nancy too. She is one feisty and determined lady, who has dementia but she doesn’t let that hold her back and she certainly doesn’t let it stop her writing. She gets herself into some scrapes too.
This is one book that really surprised me. I don’t mean that to sound nasty as it really isn’t meant that way. This book actually looks at dementia and how it affects somebody in an amusing way and shows that a life with dementia doesn’t have to be overly negative or serious. I really liked this way of dealing with the disease. My Great Aunt suffered with dementia and it was heartbreaking to watch her decline but along the way we did have some tears but we also had some laughs.
The author’s writing style is such that drew my attention from the start and it wasn’t too long until I became addicted to reading ‘The Forgotten Guide To Happiness’. I just had to keep reading on and on to see what happened next in Lana’s life and whether or not she got the happy ever after that she so deserved. I also loved reading about the escapades that Nancy and Lana got up to. Not only were they extremely good friends but they were a great team too. I didn’t notice how quickly the page numbers were flying past until the moment I closed the back cover. I had mixed feelings about finishing the book. Don’t get me wrong I was pleased to finish because I knew how the story ended but at the same time I was disappointed to finish because I was enjoying the writing style and the story so much that I just wanted the book to continue. By the time I finished reading the book I did feel as though I had been through a bit of an emotional wringer. Parts of the book made me want to cry, made me want to shout, made me laugh out loud and well you get the picture.
To conclude I am so glad that I had the chance to read this book. I know that it is a work of fiction but as I mentioned above, there is a serious side to it. ‘The Forgotten Guide To Happiness’ has certainly given me a lot to think about. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to other readers. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this fantastic author. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a well deserved 5* out of 5*.
June 21, 2018
The Forgotten Guide To Happiness
Well, I am a little perplexed as to where to start with this review. I have so many thoughts shuffling around in my head. At the start of TFGTH, we meet Lana a successful but skint author of one book. Her book was written from experience in her own life and of course, the hero in the book has just broken her heart in real life so when she writes the follow up it’s fueled with bitter tones and is deeply depressing. With her life in a mess, she looks for inspiration for a rewrite of book 2.
I really loved the first half of the book. I was excited and energised by the writing and the uplifting feel it gave me. Lana was someone I liked and I was interested in her journey. As we are introduced to a whole host of other characters the main one that I adored and will remember for a long time was a heart stay character called Nancy. I don’t want to give too much away, so all I will say is that the way the heart-wrenching dementia storyline was handled by Jenkins was beautiful. Using a gentle stroke of humour to pull the reader out of the sadness was a complete genius. The modern-day references to authors and places are really lovely and it enhances the feel of the book.
For me personally, something happened to the progress of the book that didn’t quite work. The Lana I thought I knew changed completely into someone I really didn’t like and I was so disappointed. Also, the not quite knowing if some of the writing was for her book or part of the main story made me a little confused.
One thing that will stay with me long after the last page closed is the addition of Harvey Bristol Cream in the book. It’s mentioned a lot, so much so I had to go and buy a bottle to see just what it’s like. To my amazement, there is NO cream. In my mind, it was going to be all sweet and yummy. It’s very different but I liked the experience of trying something new.
I’ve not had a book hangover in a long time but The Forgotten Guide To Happiness did indeed give me one.
Overall I would say it’s a good book with some corker stand out moments.
Read more reviews over at www.lovebooksgroup.com
Well, I am a little perplexed as to where to start with this review. I have so many thoughts shuffling around in my head. At the start of TFGTH, we meet Lana a successful but skint author of one book. Her book was written from experience in her own life and of course, the hero in the book has just broken her heart in real life so when she writes the follow up it’s fueled with bitter tones and is deeply depressing. With her life in a mess, she looks for inspiration for a rewrite of book 2.
I really loved the first half of the book. I was excited and energised by the writing and the uplifting feel it gave me. Lana was someone I liked and I was interested in her journey. As we are introduced to a whole host of other characters the main one that I adored and will remember for a long time was a heart stay character called Nancy. I don’t want to give too much away, so all I will say is that the way the heart-wrenching dementia storyline was handled by Jenkins was beautiful. Using a gentle stroke of humour to pull the reader out of the sadness was a complete genius. The modern-day references to authors and places are really lovely and it enhances the feel of the book.
For me personally, something happened to the progress of the book that didn’t quite work. The Lana I thought I knew changed completely into someone I really didn’t like and I was so disappointed. Also, the not quite knowing if some of the writing was for her book or part of the main story made me a little confused.
One thing that will stay with me long after the last page closed is the addition of Harvey Bristol Cream in the book. It’s mentioned a lot, so much so I had to go and buy a bottle to see just what it’s like. To my amazement, there is NO cream. In my mind, it was going to be all sweet and yummy. It’s very different but I liked the experience of trying something new.
I’ve not had a book hangover in a long time but The Forgotten Guide To Happiness did indeed give me one.
Overall I would say it’s a good book with some corker stand out moments.
Read more reviews over at www.lovebooksgroup.com
July 10, 2018
When you’re trying to write a love story, maybe the best way is to live it!
I thoroughly enjoyed The Forgotten Guide to Happiness.
I loved the plot and although it’s relatively simple it is so satisfying to read because not only does it have a lovely romantic heart, the conceit of writing as a catalyst for the book is perfectly handled, so that it is actually a very useful book for aspiring writers as well as a warm, compassionate and engaging story.
Lana is a hugely appealing protagonist. She is flawed, insecure and totally human. Once or twice I found myself telling her ‘No! Don’t DO that’ because I cared about what happened to her. Her search for a sequel to her novel Love Crazy, her self blindness at times and her very human need for love all make her feel like a real person.
However, it is Nancy who steals the book for me. Sophie Jenkins has shown so realistically and sensitively that those suffering dementia are still people and Nancy embodies true identity through her confusion, her larger than life personality and her love of colour. Her speech adds such humour in the story so that whilst I felt sorry that she was suffering the disease, I felt uplifted and positive too. What is so cleverly done is the message that Nancy can remember what really is important in life whereas those not suffering her dementia don’t always have the same skill of recollection.
I also loved the themes present that lift The Forgotten Guide to Happiness above being simply a very entertaining read. The way society behaves towards and treats the vulnerable, the way love and identity are universal concerns, and the fact that truth is sometimes staring us in the face when we don’t want to recognise it, all shine through Sophie Jenkins’ smashing writing.
The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is such a lovely book. It has unexpected depth as well as a lightness of touch so that it’s a perfectly balanced and wonderful read. I loved it.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Forgotten Guide to Happiness.
I loved the plot and although it’s relatively simple it is so satisfying to read because not only does it have a lovely romantic heart, the conceit of writing as a catalyst for the book is perfectly handled, so that it is actually a very useful book for aspiring writers as well as a warm, compassionate and engaging story.
Lana is a hugely appealing protagonist. She is flawed, insecure and totally human. Once or twice I found myself telling her ‘No! Don’t DO that’ because I cared about what happened to her. Her search for a sequel to her novel Love Crazy, her self blindness at times and her very human need for love all make her feel like a real person.
However, it is Nancy who steals the book for me. Sophie Jenkins has shown so realistically and sensitively that those suffering dementia are still people and Nancy embodies true identity through her confusion, her larger than life personality and her love of colour. Her speech adds such humour in the story so that whilst I felt sorry that she was suffering the disease, I felt uplifted and positive too. What is so cleverly done is the message that Nancy can remember what really is important in life whereas those not suffering her dementia don’t always have the same skill of recollection.
I also loved the themes present that lift The Forgotten Guide to Happiness above being simply a very entertaining read. The way society behaves towards and treats the vulnerable, the way love and identity are universal concerns, and the fact that truth is sometimes staring us in the face when we don’t want to recognise it, all shine through Sophie Jenkins’ smashing writing.
The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is such a lovely book. It has unexpected depth as well as a lightness of touch so that it’s a perfectly balanced and wonderful read. I loved it.
June 30, 2018
Lana is a struggling author, trying to write a follow up to her last book which was based on her relationship with her boyfriend Mark. However, Mark goes abroad for work and breaks up the relationship, so Lana decides to write a follow-up book on heartbreak - this does not go down well with her agent, who urges her to write another romance book.
Struggling for money to pay her rent and inspiration, Lana bumps into Jack, whose stepmother Nancy is a famous feminist writer now in her 80s and suffering from dementia. A friendship grows between Jack and Lana and she moves in with Nancy. She discovers the ups and downs of living with a sufferer of dementia and why Jack wears bright colours.
This was one of the quirkiest and loveliest romances I have read for some time. The subject of dementia was treated very sympathetically. At no point did I feel sorry for Nancy, and the slow-burning romance between Lana and Jack is beautifully written.
Wonderful!
Thank you Netgalley and Avon for giving me the opportunity of reading this book for an honest review.
Struggling for money to pay her rent and inspiration, Lana bumps into Jack, whose stepmother Nancy is a famous feminist writer now in her 80s and suffering from dementia. A friendship grows between Jack and Lana and she moves in with Nancy. She discovers the ups and downs of living with a sufferer of dementia and why Jack wears bright colours.
This was one of the quirkiest and loveliest romances I have read for some time. The subject of dementia was treated very sympathetically. At no point did I feel sorry for Nancy, and the slow-burning romance between Lana and Jack is beautifully written.
Wonderful!
Thank you Netgalley and Avon for giving me the opportunity of reading this book for an honest review.
May 27, 2019
This was a nice light easy read. Lana, a struggling author has broken up with her boyfriend and needs to find a place to live. She meets Jack, and moves in with his elderly stepmother Nancy who is suffering from dementia and is also a famous author. Things then begin to look up for Lana. However just over half way through I began to lose interest when her ex Mark returns and she goes running back to him as if nothing has happened. This showed her to be weak and selfish, especially with how he treated her and Helga after her accident. It baffled me why she would do this when things were looking promising between her and Jack. Overall it was a heartwarming story and the writing style was easy to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2020
It took me so long to finish this book. I couldn’t get into it at all, and because of that I kept putting it down and picking it up, and that probably meant I couldn’t get into it at all, so I kept putting it down …. And I had picked it up because of its cute cover, too! So springlike. I thought, a nice easy read to cheer me up on a wet spring day in early March, and over three and a half weeks later I finally finished what should have been a two-day read. I just didn’t understand it.
I get that 28 year old Lana has written a book on her personal experience with her boyfriend but now he has done a runner, she has lost it – man, muse, mojo. She can only write about what she knows, but conversely seems to be lauded for writing just one book - Love Crazy - a bit chick-lit methinks. She’s hardly writing literary fiction, but is invited to teach a writing course. This isn’t really credible, is it?
None of the characters were really fleshed out and I felt that including Lana moving in with Nancy, who also baffled me, was jumping on the bandwagon of a proliferation of novels with characters with Alzheimers, brain tumours and other illnesses that get all wrapped up in a feelgood story.
I quite liked Jack, Mark was a caricature but I didn’t get Lana, nor Nancy, and I wouldn’t judge a book by its cover. I loved the cover and I thought the story was going to be more gripping than it was. I thought the last few chapters were the best when things actually happened. Other than that, it was a muddle and not a read I would recommend, unfortunately.
I get that 28 year old Lana has written a book on her personal experience with her boyfriend but now he has done a runner, she has lost it – man, muse, mojo. She can only write about what she knows, but conversely seems to be lauded for writing just one book - Love Crazy - a bit chick-lit methinks. She’s hardly writing literary fiction, but is invited to teach a writing course. This isn’t really credible, is it?
None of the characters were really fleshed out and I felt that including Lana moving in with Nancy, who also baffled me, was jumping on the bandwagon of a proliferation of novels with characters with Alzheimers, brain tumours and other illnesses that get all wrapped up in a feelgood story.
I quite liked Jack, Mark was a caricature but I didn’t get Lana, nor Nancy, and I wouldn’t judge a book by its cover. I loved the cover and I thought the story was going to be more gripping than it was. I thought the last few chapters were the best when things actually happened. Other than that, it was a muddle and not a read I would recommend, unfortunately.
August 21, 2018
Lana writes a book about her perfect love affair with Mark and it becomes a best seller. When he leaves her she writes another book and it’s rejected as being vindictive and sad. With no money for rent she moves in with an elderly lady with dementia, Nancy. Jack, Nancy’s stepson arranges their meeting and things start looking up for Lana. As friendships develop the story let’s you feel the failing health, a light romance and life moving forward. Set in England the books flows toward an expected end with a twist. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 30, 2021
The story of Lana a writer who has lost her way after Mark her love leaves. The story of Lana and Jack who becomes her “Hero” in order for her to write again. The story of Lana and Nancy, a well known feminist author who has dementia. Lives crossing in and out. I really enjoyed this book. It was realistic, it was different from other books and it was refreshing. Really well written and kept me wanting to turn the pages.
June 19, 2018
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I loved the cover for this book as soon as I saw it and I was immediately intrigued and knew it was one I would want to read as soon as I looked at the blurb!
The book flowed really well, I loved the characters and was really pleased with how the subject of dementia was dealt with in the book. It was a genuine pleasure to read and could really sympathise with the characters, the book was well thought through and it is definitely one I would be looking to recommend - it is heart warming and emotional.
Four stars from me for this one, a very enjoyable story and as the book says, sometimes, happiness can be found where you least expect it…
I loved the cover for this book as soon as I saw it and I was immediately intrigued and knew it was one I would want to read as soon as I looked at the blurb!
The book flowed really well, I loved the characters and was really pleased with how the subject of dementia was dealt with in the book. It was a genuine pleasure to read and could really sympathise with the characters, the book was well thought through and it is definitely one I would be looking to recommend - it is heart warming and emotional.
Four stars from me for this one, a very enjoyable story and as the book says, sometimes, happiness can be found where you least expect it…
August 7, 2023
Hmm. There was something about this book which meant that I just didn't really warm to it. Maybe because it lacked depth or because the characterisation wasn't brilliant? I'm not sure. Anyway, it was perfectly readable, but just not one of those I'd be in a hurry to recommend.
January 31, 2021
Lovely book. I expected some kind of chic book . But it has a great twist in it. A young writer moves in with an old lady who has dementia. Never read a book like this before. Enjoyed it.
June 13, 2021
Predictable & long winded.
Hard to finish.
The main character I found shallow and annoying.
Lacked character development and explanations.
I persevered hoping it would get better, it didn’t.
Not heart warming at all.
Hard to finish.
The main character I found shallow and annoying.
Lacked character development and explanations.
I persevered hoping it would get better, it didn’t.
Not heart warming at all.
December 4, 2022
An easy and enjoyable read. Written about an author so felt very believable most of the way through. I feel the ending was all a bit rushed / lacking in detail which kind of made it less realistic at that point.
December 28, 2020
Knižka sa mohla radšej volať Ako byť hrdinom. Dávam o bod viac, ako by som inak knihu ohodnotila, ale to len pre postavu Nancy, ktorá síce mohla dostať aj trošku viac priestoru, téma s alzhaimerom a kvôli tomu, že je hlavnou osobou spisovateľka. Hlavná hrdinka kedysi napísala úspešnú knihu o láske, v podstate sa inšpirovala mužom svojho života a opísala svoj zamilovaný príbeh. No teraz ju nechal a musí sa pozbierať. Kruté a reálne, ale dobre. Jej novú kniha o rozchode nevydajú, takže sa musí zamestnať, kým dostane nápad na niečo nové. Kurzy večeného písania sú tou záchranou. Ako aj tajomný neznámy, ktorý sa rozhodol byť jej novým hrdinom. Knižným. Alebo aj nie? Málokedy človek vidí, čo má priamo pod nosom. Takže aj ona musela dospieť a rozhodnúť sa. A ako do toho pasuje Nancy, nebudem prezrádzať. No bolo to milé. Málokto by mal toľko trpezlivosti s jej náladami. Oproti predchádzajúcej knihe Stratené listy som ju čítala kratšie, no asi mám už týchto contemporary po krk. Atmosférou mi trochu pripomínala knihu Ranné želania. A rady spisovateľom boli dosť všeobecné, možno sa aj nimi niekto inšpiruje...
June 1, 2018
The Forgotten Guide to Happiness is an enjoyable and heartwarming novel about Lana Green, who is dumped by her boyfriend Mark and finds herself unable to afford to pay for the flat she is living in. She meets Jack and Nancy who turn things around for her. Jack becomes her pretend boyfriend to help her write her next book and she becomes Nancy carer as Nancy has dementia and moves in with her to prevent her moving into a care home.
This was a very touching and emotional story, with great characters, easy to read and a good storyline, however, I felt as if something was missing and I can't quite put my finger on what. This isn't your typical romance book and I'm not sure entirely how it missed the mark for me, don't get me wrong I did enjoy the story but it didn't grab me as much as certain other books. That said, I would still recommend it to others as just because it didn't pull me in as much as I would have liked, others may find it the opposite.
This was a very touching and emotional story, with great characters, easy to read and a good storyline, however, I felt as if something was missing and I can't quite put my finger on what. This isn't your typical romance book and I'm not sure entirely how it missed the mark for me, don't get me wrong I did enjoy the story but it didn't grab me as much as certain other books. That said, I would still recommend it to others as just because it didn't pull me in as much as I would have liked, others may find it the opposite.
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