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Amy Cole #1
Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind
What if rock bottom was the perfect place to find yourself?
Amy Cole is a stay-at-home mum and a woman on the edge.
After a very public breakdown and failed suicide attempt, Amy finds herself trying to make it through her everyday life as a high-functioning zombie.
Elle De Bruyn is a force of nature ready to shake Amy back to life whether she likes it or not.
After a fortuitous meeting, the two embark on a journey together which will change them both and help them find out exactly what they’re capable of when rock bottom is just the beginning.
Amy Cole is a stay-at-home mum and a woman on the edge.
After a very public breakdown and failed suicide attempt, Amy finds herself trying to make it through her everyday life as a high-functioning zombie.
Elle De Bruyn is a force of nature ready to shake Amy back to life whether she likes it or not.
After a fortuitous meeting, the two embark on a journey together which will change them both and help them find out exactly what they’re capable of when rock bottom is just the beginning.
349 pages, Paperback
First published May 2, 2018
336 people are currently reading
513 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 26, 2018
4.25 S.M.U.G. Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.25
Amy Cole has found a fan! This book almost did the impossible... it took very serious subject matter, handled it extremely well.... and added in a huge dose of humor... I was captivated and engaged in Amy’s life from cover to cover....
Amy has a miscarriage... 15%-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage... I myself had two prior to having my three amazing beautiful healthy children.... but it is a lonely grief, because nobody feels the loss as much as you do.... Amy also suffers from depression and this really was a heartwrenching experience for her... I felt for Amy and I was always hoping for her to rally... as Amy tries to make herself better she meets two very important people Joseph and Elle....
Elle was fabulous and I loved the friendship that developed between Amy and her... also thoroughly enjoyed the battle between them and the S.M.U.G. Playgroup... A group of mothers that enjoy passing judgment on other mothers... Joseph was kind of a step in Fairy Godfather, just there with the right opportunity and right words at the right time....
I’m sure you’re thinking, where is the humor in all this? Well the humor was just everywhere... it was in Amy’s inner dialogue... and it really was in the antics that Amy and Elle got themselves into... also the kids absolutely added a dose of humor, as they always do.... I do need to mention Amy’s patient and understanding husband Ben... even though at sometimes he wasn’t quite as understanding or as patient as he probably should have been, he was in a tough situation, and he truly wanted nothing but the best for his wife.... so thrilled there is a follow-up to this book, I can’t wait to spend more time with Amy and family and friends.....
Absolutely recommend to people who enjoy a good story with relatable characters and The perfect dose of humor...
*** thank you so much to the author and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
Amy Cole has found a fan! This book almost did the impossible... it took very serious subject matter, handled it extremely well.... and added in a huge dose of humor... I was captivated and engaged in Amy’s life from cover to cover....
Amy has a miscarriage... 15%-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage... I myself had two prior to having my three amazing beautiful healthy children.... but it is a lonely grief, because nobody feels the loss as much as you do.... Amy also suffers from depression and this really was a heartwrenching experience for her... I felt for Amy and I was always hoping for her to rally... as Amy tries to make herself better she meets two very important people Joseph and Elle....
Elle was fabulous and I loved the friendship that developed between Amy and her... also thoroughly enjoyed the battle between them and the S.M.U.G. Playgroup... A group of mothers that enjoy passing judgment on other mothers... Joseph was kind of a step in Fairy Godfather, just there with the right opportunity and right words at the right time....
I’m sure you’re thinking, where is the humor in all this? Well the humor was just everywhere... it was in Amy’s inner dialogue... and it really was in the antics that Amy and Elle got themselves into... also the kids absolutely added a dose of humor, as they always do.... I do need to mention Amy’s patient and understanding husband Ben... even though at sometimes he wasn’t quite as understanding or as patient as he probably should have been, he was in a tough situation, and he truly wanted nothing but the best for his wife.... so thrilled there is a follow-up to this book, I can’t wait to spend more time with Amy and family and friends.....
Absolutely recommend to people who enjoy a good story with relatable characters and The perfect dose of humor...
*** thank you so much to the author and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
May 29, 2018
5☆ A Sensetive Subject, with a unique witty twist.
Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind is a very different unique book. Elizabeth has taken a very sensitive subject and made it approachable, with adding witt and humour.
Amy suffers from depression.
So much so a heartwrenching event has made her so low she tries to commit suicide. Amy is a mother and a wife and she knows she can't give up.
I know it sounds really deep and your thinking it is going to be a tough read.
But Elizabeth has shown Amy's battles and triumphs as she makes friends, gets herself into mishaps, mayhem making me laugh out loud.
Amy meets Elle, and the two begin a beautiful and fun friendship as they help each other and give each other support and strength.
Amy and Elle get themselves into plenty of mischief that will have you laughing so hard.
Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind is a totally absorbing read that's beautifully written. The writing style is lovely, full of warmth, charm and witt. It really captured my attention, it was effortlessly fluid and captivating, pulling me in from the first page.
Elizabeth has truly captured the Power of Friendship and Family and how important it is.
The characters are strong and unique that you just can't help routing for them to suceed.
I really do urge you to give Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind a try, you won't be disappointed!
Oh and I forgot to mention how much I LOVE the Cover! It's really quirky. Perfect cover for the perfect book!
Enjoy!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily
My Review is also on my Blog Website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind is a very different unique book. Elizabeth has taken a very sensitive subject and made it approachable, with adding witt and humour.
Amy suffers from depression.
So much so a heartwrenching event has made her so low she tries to commit suicide. Amy is a mother and a wife and she knows she can't give up.
I know it sounds really deep and your thinking it is going to be a tough read.
But Elizabeth has shown Amy's battles and triumphs as she makes friends, gets herself into mishaps, mayhem making me laugh out loud.
Amy meets Elle, and the two begin a beautiful and fun friendship as they help each other and give each other support and strength.
Amy and Elle get themselves into plenty of mischief that will have you laughing so hard.
Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind is a totally absorbing read that's beautifully written. The writing style is lovely, full of warmth, charm and witt. It really captured my attention, it was effortlessly fluid and captivating, pulling me in from the first page.
Elizabeth has truly captured the Power of Friendship and Family and how important it is.
The characters are strong and unique that you just can't help routing for them to suceed.
I really do urge you to give Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind a try, you won't be disappointed!
Oh and I forgot to mention how much I LOVE the Cover! It's really quirky. Perfect cover for the perfect book!
Enjoy!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily
My Review is also on my Blog Website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
April 9, 2019
This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster. Amy is a woman who thinks of herself as one huge failure - she even failed at her suicide attempts - how much of a loser is she? Turns out she is anything but. She suffers from depression and anxiety, and the author does an excellent job of describing how these conditions effect daily life.
Enter Elle, a loud outspoken young woman with a marriage on the rocks and two kids she adores. Elle and Amy meet by chance and the two couldn't be much more different - and yet they are the same in many ways. Elle decides to take Amy on as "project" - helping her to climb out of her shell, and breathing life back into her, even as she hides her own deep struggles.
Reading the above, you would think this book is depressing and downbeat. It is not. The book is filled with humorous situations that will leave you laughing out loud. It's a delightful read and I plan on reading the rest of the series too.
Enter Elle, a loud outspoken young woman with a marriage on the rocks and two kids she adores. Elle and Amy meet by chance and the two couldn't be much more different - and yet they are the same in many ways. Elle decides to take Amy on as "project" - helping her to climb out of her shell, and breathing life back into her, even as she hides her own deep struggles.
Reading the above, you would think this book is depressing and downbeat. It is not. The book is filled with humorous situations that will leave you laughing out loud. It's a delightful read and I plan on reading the rest of the series too.
May 29, 2018
Amy Cole’s life has been on a downward spiral for the past few months. Sure, she has a wonderful husband, Ben, and two young boys, but she has fallen into a state of depression, anxiety and self pity that has caused her to try to commit suicide after an emotional loss. Her husband loves her and although he means well, he is not helping Amy with his over protectiveness. Since the failed suicide attempt, or what her mother likes to call “the incident,” Amy has been trying to get her life back on track, but she still has a long way before she can reach it. Amy has let herself go, makeup is overrated anyway, right? And who needs to shave their legs when she can use that time to sleep in instead. With two boys to take care of who has time to look like a movie star.
With some encouragement from her husband, she decides to test the waters and join a local mom’s club where she can take her youngest son to play with other children and where she can socialize with other moms. S.M.U.G. is certainly not what Amy expected and the mothers there well, they were rather smug. Amy definitely did not fit in. That is until a breath of fresh air stormed in named Elle DeBruyn. Elle lit up the room and Amy, for the first time in a while, felt like she could actually make a friend. Can Amy finally learn what the meaning of life and fun means? Can Elle bring out the badass in Amy?
I absolutely adore Amy. She is authentic, loving, a little bit crazy, and she can see the humor in mostly everything around her even when it comes to herself. Sure, she has problems and issues that she has to work through. Life at times can be hard. Amy knows this more than anyone. When she finally decides to do something about her sad state, she opens herself up, often in comical ways with her new found friend, Elle, and really starts coming out of the hole she has buried herself in. I love the transformation that Amy goes through as she finds herself for the first time in a long while. In the process she also helps her friend, Elle, who has problems of her own. Together they are a tag team duo full of life, laughter, and love.
I certainly did not know what I was in for when I cracked open Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind. I knew it was going to be humorous, but Elizabeth McGivern took it to a whole new level of hilarity. I was laughing so much, my stomach started to hurt! The antics Amy and Elle get into like attending a speed dating event, just to feel sexy from male attention, had me in stitches. The more sensitive subject matter is tastefully written with utmost care and compassion. It shows real issues ordinary women face daily. Real issues that matter.
Amy Cole Has Lost Her mind is as real as it gets through all the ups and downs of marriage, life, kids and friendship. It is a story filled with humor and heartache that mix together creating the perfect recipe for an even more perfect book that will give you all the feels. I am so excited that my journey does not end here and Amy, Elle and the rest of the gang will be in a second installment, Amy Cole is Zen as F*ck. OMG, I can’t wait!
With some encouragement from her husband, she decides to test the waters and join a local mom’s club where she can take her youngest son to play with other children and where she can socialize with other moms. S.M.U.G. is certainly not what Amy expected and the mothers there well, they were rather smug. Amy definitely did not fit in. That is until a breath of fresh air stormed in named Elle DeBruyn. Elle lit up the room and Amy, for the first time in a while, felt like she could actually make a friend. Can Amy finally learn what the meaning of life and fun means? Can Elle bring out the badass in Amy?
I absolutely adore Amy. She is authentic, loving, a little bit crazy, and she can see the humor in mostly everything around her even when it comes to herself. Sure, she has problems and issues that she has to work through. Life at times can be hard. Amy knows this more than anyone. When she finally decides to do something about her sad state, she opens herself up, often in comical ways with her new found friend, Elle, and really starts coming out of the hole she has buried herself in. I love the transformation that Amy goes through as she finds herself for the first time in a long while. In the process she also helps her friend, Elle, who has problems of her own. Together they are a tag team duo full of life, laughter, and love.
I certainly did not know what I was in for when I cracked open Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind. I knew it was going to be humorous, but Elizabeth McGivern took it to a whole new level of hilarity. I was laughing so much, my stomach started to hurt! The antics Amy and Elle get into like attending a speed dating event, just to feel sexy from male attention, had me in stitches. The more sensitive subject matter is tastefully written with utmost care and compassion. It shows real issues ordinary women face daily. Real issues that matter.
Amy Cole Has Lost Her mind is as real as it gets through all the ups and downs of marriage, life, kids and friendship. It is a story filled with humor and heartache that mix together creating the perfect recipe for an even more perfect book that will give you all the feels. I am so excited that my journey does not end here and Amy, Elle and the rest of the gang will be in a second installment, Amy Cole is Zen as F*ck. OMG, I can’t wait!
May 29, 2018
Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind is a beautiful "slice of life" story that will have you in a tizzy! It is raw, emotional, and full of humor! Be prepared to lose yourself in this one!
I don't usually grab for women's fiction often, but when I do, it's because I am in the mood for a heartwarming story mixed with emotional struggle, and a dash of humor. I can say that this one checked all those boxes. It was powerful and sentimental, and definitely had me laughing!
I loved that McGivern hit Amy's depression and anxiety head on. Amy's struggles were real, and represented issues that always need to be addressed, understood, and sympathized with. Amy was such a beautiful, important character that grew and flourished within the story, but, at the same time, she kept true to herself, and always recognized that she had a lot to deal with. Her depression and anxiety weren't issues that could just be fixed over night.
I really adored how McGivern highlighted the importance of family and friendship in these situations. I also really loved how Amy was able to open up, and begin part of the healing process, because one amazing, kind, stranger took the time to listen to her. There was so much beauty in this story!
I appreciated the blossoming friendship between Elle and Amy. Though, I didn't always enjoy Elle's character. She was crass and crude at times, and definitely overbearing. But, she managed to bring about a new side to Amy, and helped her open up to herself. Amy gained confidence and a new view on life because of Elle.
And, we cannot forget about the humor! My goodness, I didn't expect to laugh so much! It was like something I could envision Melissa McCarthy in! There was an embarrassing moment for Amy involving a trampoline, a failed attempt at a tryst with her husband, and a hilarious birthday dinner (among many other humorous moments). The comedy added a layer of depth and lightheartedness to the serious tone of the story without taking away from the mental health awareness theme.
I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this! It touched my heart and soothed my soul. Stories like this one are the reason I have reached for the genre in the past, and will continue to reach for it in the future. It was full of dynamic characters, amusement, and strong themes of beauty, family, friendship, and awareness. I was left completely satisfied and wanting the next one!
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources and the author for sending me this free e-ARC in exchange for my honest review, and as part of the blog tour!
I don't usually grab for women's fiction often, but when I do, it's because I am in the mood for a heartwarming story mixed with emotional struggle, and a dash of humor. I can say that this one checked all those boxes. It was powerful and sentimental, and definitely had me laughing!
I loved that McGivern hit Amy's depression and anxiety head on. Amy's struggles were real, and represented issues that always need to be addressed, understood, and sympathized with. Amy was such a beautiful, important character that grew and flourished within the story, but, at the same time, she kept true to herself, and always recognized that she had a lot to deal with. Her depression and anxiety weren't issues that could just be fixed over night.
I really adored how McGivern highlighted the importance of family and friendship in these situations. I also really loved how Amy was able to open up, and begin part of the healing process, because one amazing, kind, stranger took the time to listen to her. There was so much beauty in this story!
I appreciated the blossoming friendship between Elle and Amy. Though, I didn't always enjoy Elle's character. She was crass and crude at times, and definitely overbearing. But, she managed to bring about a new side to Amy, and helped her open up to herself. Amy gained confidence and a new view on life because of Elle.
And, we cannot forget about the humor! My goodness, I didn't expect to laugh so much! It was like something I could envision Melissa McCarthy in! There was an embarrassing moment for Amy involving a trampoline, a failed attempt at a tryst with her husband, and a hilarious birthday dinner (among many other humorous moments). The comedy added a layer of depth and lightheartedness to the serious tone of the story without taking away from the mental health awareness theme.
I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this! It touched my heart and soothed my soul. Stories like this one are the reason I have reached for the genre in the past, and will continue to reach for it in the future. It was full of dynamic characters, amusement, and strong themes of beauty, family, friendship, and awareness. I was left completely satisfied and wanting the next one!
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources and the author for sending me this free e-ARC in exchange for my honest review, and as part of the blog tour!
May 7, 2018
Amy is a mother of two boys Arthur and Adam and wife to Ben. She feels at times that she has three children to deal with as Ben is seen as the “fun”parent whilst she is left to deal with the rest- the bad stuff, the mess and the “proper” parenting in her own way. Amy is also a realist as refuses to wrap her children in cotton wool. When she goes to the S.M.U.G nursery group (don’t ask!!) she is horrified when she is almost thrown out but she does meet a like minded friend. I don’t usually read parent/children centric books but because Amy is so grounded I found myself smiling and even laughing at this one. Someone who deals with what life throws at us in their own way- not always as others think we should. We are all human -something that can be forgotten by others when we are trudging through stressful times. For parents and non parents. This book was a breath of fresh air. A real feelgood, laugh out loud read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
October 26, 2019
I loved it!
I couldn't put it down! My husband now understands what it's like to talk to only to hear "what did you say?" or have no response at all. I can't wait to read the next book!
I couldn't put it down! My husband now understands what it's like to talk to only to hear "what did you say?" or have no response at all. I can't wait to read the next book!
November 25, 2020
I wasn't expecting to like this book but was delightfully surprised. It is both amusing and poignant as it shows Amy's struggles with depression and anxiety. It is also a story of relationships.
January 4, 2020
I didn't care for this book. It was supposed to be so funny and turned out to be much darker than it was funny. I'm a big fan of self-deprecating humor - when it's honest, it's funny. When it's forced, it is not funny at all. There were only two places in the book that I came close to laughing. One when Amy Cole ran into her father at an art class, and two when she planned a big night with her husband and it didn't quite turn out as planned. Laughing out loud? No. While I'm riffing on this book, I might as well mention that it was a perfect bound book that was done so tightly, it was hard to keep it open for reading. I know that many people found it funny; I'm willing to bet they are much younger than I am. I didn't find the subject matter, gratuitous swearing, name-calling and crudeness funny in the least. Just sign me Oscar the Grouch. It was a time filler for me and that is all.
June 22, 2019
A page-turning 'LOL-athon'
Fantastic. Funny, endearing, with characters that I cared about- I can even picture them. Fantastic debut novel, very much looking forward to the next instalment.
Fantastic. Funny, endearing, with characters that I cared about- I can even picture them. Fantastic debut novel, very much looking forward to the next instalment.
April 8, 2019
Although I enjoyed it for the most part, the stars are knocked down some because I felt a little mislead. I thought it would be a light, upbeat book and a good portion of it was, but what wasn’t— really, really wasn’t and it soured me a bit.
April 23, 2019
A fluffy chic lit book about a woman's attempted suicide and depression over a miscarriage. Hmm. Not subjects you would think for a light read. I found the book to be mostly unbelievable; where the characters acted, well, out of character. I laughed a few times. A quick, easy read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2020
Not able to get into this one
43% through, I threw in the towel. I didn't like the characters or the theme of the book. I am thankful I have finally overcome my compulsion to finish every book i pick up.
43% through, I threw in the towel. I didn't like the characters or the theme of the book. I am thankful I have finally overcome my compulsion to finish every book i pick up.
December 14, 2020
I was excited for another series, but this is one i won't be finishing. I was bored from the beginning thinking it has to get better , but it never did. Plus it was not funny and the ending just ended . There was no cliff hanger to get you excited about the next book. Just blah.
May 25, 2018
Amy Cole is a woman suffering from depression following a traumatic event in her life. We meet her at a point where she has got so low she has attempted suicide and is now trying to climb back up and find some equilibrium. After all, she had a loving husband and two small boys depending on her. But as anyone who has struggled with depression knows, this is a difficult thing to wrestle with. Enter Elle De Bruyn, a brash, bossy, bullshit-free new best friend who is going to help Amy out of her hole, come hell or high water. However, Elle is struggling with issues or her own, can Amy find the strength to help her friend out in return?
This book is a fascinating mix of really serious issues and absolutely outrageous and hilarious incidents that combine to create a book that approaches its tough subject matter in an original and approachable way. Parts of this book had me howling with laughter – the trampolining exercise class, the speed dating, the life drawing to name but a few. My absolute favourite laugh out loud moment though was the sexting section, I had tears rolling down my face.
There were also lots of relatable moments, especially as a mum. The horror of the mother and baby group filled with competitive, smug mums. The ex-colleague who is constantly shoving her success in your face and making you feel inadequate. The inability to tell the makeover lady at the cosmetics counter that you hare the clown face she has pasted on you and you don’t want to buy any of her products. Elizabeth McGivern has drawn on experiences that women everywhere will be able to connect with.
I adored all the characters in this book, they were all really well rounded and authentic. Amy is a woman that you will recognise as yourself or someone you know. She was very down to earth and honest and I liked her from the start, she feels very real to me. Elle is the best friend we wish we all had, or could be. Amy’s children were a delight and brought back so many memories of my own kids at that age. She has a real knack for observing people.
Underlying all this, as previously mentioned, are some serious issues and I think the author handles these very sensitively and well. Experience of depression is different for everybody, and everybody who suffers will have a different reaction but I think the way the author deals with it feels true to someone’s experience, if not the reader’s. It is good to see a book dealing with this subject, as it is something often swept under the carpet or including in an insensitive way and this book tackles in head on.
I really liked this book, I think it is balanced very well between humour and candour and I would definitely recommend it as a worthwhile read.
This book is a fascinating mix of really serious issues and absolutely outrageous and hilarious incidents that combine to create a book that approaches its tough subject matter in an original and approachable way. Parts of this book had me howling with laughter – the trampolining exercise class, the speed dating, the life drawing to name but a few. My absolute favourite laugh out loud moment though was the sexting section, I had tears rolling down my face.
There were also lots of relatable moments, especially as a mum. The horror of the mother and baby group filled with competitive, smug mums. The ex-colleague who is constantly shoving her success in your face and making you feel inadequate. The inability to tell the makeover lady at the cosmetics counter that you hare the clown face she has pasted on you and you don’t want to buy any of her products. Elizabeth McGivern has drawn on experiences that women everywhere will be able to connect with.
I adored all the characters in this book, they were all really well rounded and authentic. Amy is a woman that you will recognise as yourself or someone you know. She was very down to earth and honest and I liked her from the start, she feels very real to me. Elle is the best friend we wish we all had, or could be. Amy’s children were a delight and brought back so many memories of my own kids at that age. She has a real knack for observing people.
Underlying all this, as previously mentioned, are some serious issues and I think the author handles these very sensitively and well. Experience of depression is different for everybody, and everybody who suffers will have a different reaction but I think the way the author deals with it feels true to someone’s experience, if not the reader’s. It is good to see a book dealing with this subject, as it is something often swept under the carpet or including in an insensitive way and this book tackles in head on.
I really liked this book, I think it is balanced very well between humour and candour and I would definitely recommend it as a worthwhile read.
May 27, 2018
As one might expect from the title this book is the story of Amy Cole, married stay at home Mum of two. Life for Amy isn’t simple as she finds herself locked in a constant battle with depression and anxiety that has already seen her pushed to the brink. Despite medication her inner voice is her constant companion filling her with doubt and self-loathing that she spends her time struggling to hide from the world, including husband Ben.
Amy uses being a stay at home parent as a security blanket to keep herself safe since her breakdown, but Ben wants her to get out into the world and socialise. Despite her anxiety about meeting new people, Amy reluctantly agrees to take their son Arthur to a toddler group, soon realising she is a fish out of water amongst the other ‘perfect’ parents at Special Mum’s United in Growth- S.M.U.G for short! However, it’s here that she meets unconventional and rather zany fellow parent Elle. Despite being polar opposites the two strike up a friendship and Elle takes Amy on a journey of discovery that she didn’t ask for or even realise she needed!
The tone at the beginning of the book is rather serious as it delves into and details Amy’s breakdown and the knock-on effects that it has had on every part of her life, especially her friendships and relationships. As someone who has spent a large part of their life battling with depression and anxiety I could totally relate, especially to the description of Amy’s inner voice and the poison it spreads. From a metal health aspect this book did a superb job of highlighting the effects on those around people who struggle and how relationships are changed as a result. The tone lighters significantly with the arrival of Elle, who I must say was my favourite character – I think everyone will have met an Elle at some point in their life!
There are some heartbreakingly emotional moments which are balanced perfectly with plenty of humour and lots of laugh-out-loud moments. With fantastically written characters and an engaging storyline I couldn’t put this book down and read it in two evenings. Without giving too much away, the end was particularly satisfying leaving the door just a jar for the second novel in the series, Amy Cole Is Zen As F*ck which I can’t wait to read!
**This book deals with miscarriage, suicide and mental health.**
Amy uses being a stay at home parent as a security blanket to keep herself safe since her breakdown, but Ben wants her to get out into the world and socialise. Despite her anxiety about meeting new people, Amy reluctantly agrees to take their son Arthur to a toddler group, soon realising she is a fish out of water amongst the other ‘perfect’ parents at Special Mum’s United in Growth- S.M.U.G for short! However, it’s here that she meets unconventional and rather zany fellow parent Elle. Despite being polar opposites the two strike up a friendship and Elle takes Amy on a journey of discovery that she didn’t ask for or even realise she needed!
The tone at the beginning of the book is rather serious as it delves into and details Amy’s breakdown and the knock-on effects that it has had on every part of her life, especially her friendships and relationships. As someone who has spent a large part of their life battling with depression and anxiety I could totally relate, especially to the description of Amy’s inner voice and the poison it spreads. From a metal health aspect this book did a superb job of highlighting the effects on those around people who struggle and how relationships are changed as a result. The tone lighters significantly with the arrival of Elle, who I must say was my favourite character – I think everyone will have met an Elle at some point in their life!
There are some heartbreakingly emotional moments which are balanced perfectly with plenty of humour and lots of laugh-out-loud moments. With fantastically written characters and an engaging storyline I couldn’t put this book down and read it in two evenings. Without giving too much away, the end was particularly satisfying leaving the door just a jar for the second novel in the series, Amy Cole Is Zen As F*ck which I can’t wait to read!
**This book deals with miscarriage, suicide and mental health.**
May 23, 2019
This funny book blended humorous chick lit with serious womens' fiction and it was a nice escape. I would recommend it and I want to read the other two in the series.
It begins when Amy Cole- mother of two, wife of one- attempts to drown herself after a pregnancy loss. It explores the following serious topics with humor and unexpected lighthearted moments: Pregnancy loss, mental health, marriage, friendship, parenting, aging, body image and infidelity (not between the main couple).
Pros:
- Some parts, especially in the beginning, were LOL hilarious.
- The beginning and the end were good.
- I could relate to all the themes.
- This was a fun treat of a read.
- Set in Ireland with Irish characters by an Irish writer; I enjoyed the Irish flair!
Cons:
- This book badly needed a proofreader; there were a ton of mistakes!
- Some parts were over the top with nearly slapstick humor that made me roll my eyes.
- The book sagged in the middle, seeming to drag on before getting good again.
- At some points the narrator was unlikeable to me and so was her friend (by the end, they both mostly redeemed themselves though).
- There was quite a bit of a "not like other women/moms" theme, where the two friends didn't like a local moms' group so they started their own, but made fun of the other moms from and leader of the first group. I get that it was supposed to be funny and relatable but I also found it annoying because they were being as pretentious and judgmental as the women they disliked.
- The book started out with the premise of pregnancy loss but seemed to forget about that theme pretty quickly; I kept hoping it would circle back around to that but it didn't.
- I wanted to know more about her kids and I think some of the characterization could be better all around.
Even though the cons top the pros I still enjoyed this book. See my reading notes on my Twitter page @AnitaNotherBook by following this link: https://twitter.com/AnitaNotherBook/s...
It begins when Amy Cole- mother of two, wife of one- attempts to drown herself after a pregnancy loss. It explores the following serious topics with humor and unexpected lighthearted moments: Pregnancy loss, mental health, marriage, friendship, parenting, aging, body image and infidelity (not between the main couple).
Pros:
- Some parts, especially in the beginning, were LOL hilarious.
- The beginning and the end were good.
- I could relate to all the themes.
- This was a fun treat of a read.
- Set in Ireland with Irish characters by an Irish writer; I enjoyed the Irish flair!
Cons:
- This book badly needed a proofreader; there were a ton of mistakes!
- Some parts were over the top with nearly slapstick humor that made me roll my eyes.
- The book sagged in the middle, seeming to drag on before getting good again.
- At some points the narrator was unlikeable to me and so was her friend (by the end, they both mostly redeemed themselves though).
- There was quite a bit of a "not like other women/moms" theme, where the two friends didn't like a local moms' group so they started their own, but made fun of the other moms from and leader of the first group. I get that it was supposed to be funny and relatable but I also found it annoying because they were being as pretentious and judgmental as the women they disliked.
- The book started out with the premise of pregnancy loss but seemed to forget about that theme pretty quickly; I kept hoping it would circle back around to that but it didn't.
- I wanted to know more about her kids and I think some of the characterization could be better all around.
Even though the cons top the pros I still enjoyed this book. See my reading notes on my Twitter page @AnitaNotherBook by following this link: https://twitter.com/AnitaNotherBook/s...
May 17, 2018
I've been in need of a good laugh, and this book really did deliver! Despite needing trigger warnings for miscarriages, suicide and depression, this book had me rolling with laughter. Amy is such an authentic character, always second guessing herself and making a fool of herself around strangers, but in a real way rather than an "oh I'm clumsy and socially awkward but that adds to my adorkable charm" way. Throughout the story, she and Elle come up with half-cocked schemes to try to turn Amy's life around, always resulting in hilarity. Though their intentions are always the best, their methods are not always conventional, ending in results such as Amy dripping hot wax all over her husband or getting her face sat on by someone in a sauna.
While I'm not a mom, I feel like moms could easily relate to the chaos caused by Amy's two boys, Arthur and Adam, and to the cult of "perfect moms" dead set on telling others how they should parent their children.
Even though this dealt with some difficult subjects, I felt that it was done in an appropriate manner. While the book as a whole is humorous and entertaining, these tough subjects were not made light of in any way.
This book also included an excerpt from the next in the series, Amy Cole is Zen as F*ck, so that means more Amy and Elle...hooray! Can't wait to dive in to more of this uproarious chaos!
Thanks so much to Rachel's Random Resources and Pernickety Publishing for access to this hilarious read!
While I'm not a mom, I feel like moms could easily relate to the chaos caused by Amy's two boys, Arthur and Adam, and to the cult of "perfect moms" dead set on telling others how they should parent their children.
Even though this dealt with some difficult subjects, I felt that it was done in an appropriate manner. While the book as a whole is humorous and entertaining, these tough subjects were not made light of in any way.
This book also included an excerpt from the next in the series, Amy Cole is Zen as F*ck, so that means more Amy and Elle...hooray! Can't wait to dive in to more of this uproarious chaos!
Thanks so much to Rachel's Random Resources and Pernickety Publishing for access to this hilarious read!
May 30, 2018
Firstly let’s stop and take a moment to soak up this cover image, it must be the quirkiness of it that makes me see something different each time I look at it. Talk about cloud watching! But when you begin reading you will soon discover this IS Amy Cole to a tee. This book should come with a few trigger warnings *suicide, depression, miscarriage but in actual fact the author manages to lift you over the bumps in the road and makes you laugh like a loon!
Amy is a married woman with two kids, she in reality should have it all. But when tragedy strikes all impressions of a perfect family life go out the window. She meets up with up with Elle who is the type to take her off on a wicked journey of mischief while she finds herself again. In her inner deeper thoughts Amy knows she can’t just give up but attempting to function normally is just too much for her.
The writing is approached gently and tenderly at times, the pure friendship the two women have is delightful and suits the circumstances. I admit I thought before I started Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind it would be another shallow trashy romcom of which there are plenty around, so I was pleasantly surprised to find it not only made me chuckle out loud but also made me think about more serious issues.
Give it a go if you want to read a story which is a bit different from the norm.
Thanks to the author and Rachel from Random Resources for inviting me onto the tour. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Amy is a married woman with two kids, she in reality should have it all. But when tragedy strikes all impressions of a perfect family life go out the window. She meets up with up with Elle who is the type to take her off on a wicked journey of mischief while she finds herself again. In her inner deeper thoughts Amy knows she can’t just give up but attempting to function normally is just too much for her.
The writing is approached gently and tenderly at times, the pure friendship the two women have is delightful and suits the circumstances. I admit I thought before I started Amy Cole Has Lost Her Mind it would be another shallow trashy romcom of which there are plenty around, so I was pleasantly surprised to find it not only made me chuckle out loud but also made me think about more serious issues.
Give it a go if you want to read a story which is a bit different from the norm.
Thanks to the author and Rachel from Random Resources for inviting me onto the tour. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
April 25, 2019
This was a free book. I'm trying to stretch book topics (too much WW1, WW2, cold war, espionage), and so I picked a book about a young mom who struggles with identity and depression and finding her way in the world.
At first I hated the book.
Amy is a mom who swears incessantly, who seems disconnected from her husband and kids, and is angry all the time. We get a lot of swearing as this is told first person.
And then she meet a safe person and told him (and her audience) her story of a miscarriage and suicide attempt and her inability to find herself again. I fell in love with this woman and the book.
The rest of the book was a back and forth. Intrigued. Hoping for her. Wanting to yell at her not to do things. Hoping everything will turn out okay. Sometimes there were lulls in the storytelling that just bored me.
I'm glad I read this book because it gave me perspectives in depression and mothering that I don't think I would have. Would I have paid for this book? Not sure. Will I pay for more books in the series? Probably not.
At first I hated the book.
Amy is a mom who swears incessantly, who seems disconnected from her husband and kids, and is angry all the time. We get a lot of swearing as this is told first person.
And then she meet a safe person and told him (and her audience) her story of a miscarriage and suicide attempt and her inability to find herself again. I fell in love with this woman and the book.
The rest of the book was a back and forth. Intrigued. Hoping for her. Wanting to yell at her not to do things. Hoping everything will turn out okay. Sometimes there were lulls in the storytelling that just bored me.
I'm glad I read this book because it gave me perspectives in depression and mothering that I don't think I would have. Would I have paid for this book? Not sure. Will I pay for more books in the series? Probably not.
April 19, 2021
This book is absolutely fantastic. It tackles taboo subjects (miscarriage, suicide attempts, depression) in a frank and honest way. As someone who can relate to some of the issues I found it really refreshing to read a book that is just so open and honest. Although it tackles heavy subjects, it is also absolutely hilarious. Proper laugh out loud funny. I had tears running down my face from laughing so much! I've leant it to so many people. Highly recommend this series! Everyone should experience the escapades of Amy and Elle!
June 23, 2021
Should come with trigger warnings
The description of this book is very misleading. This isn’t a “feel good comedy”. It opens with an attempted suicide after a miscarriage. Yes, humor is used to grapple with serious issues. It’s a good book, but the title isn’t tongue in cheek. Amy has literally lost herself in the black hole of depression and is desperately trying to crawl her way into the light. This isn’t an easy-breezy read. But, if you want to laugh AND cry, then this might be the book for you.
The description of this book is very misleading. This isn’t a “feel good comedy”. It opens with an attempted suicide after a miscarriage. Yes, humor is used to grapple with serious issues. It’s a good book, but the title isn’t tongue in cheek. Amy has literally lost herself in the black hole of depression and is desperately trying to crawl her way into the light. This isn’t an easy-breezy read. But, if you want to laugh AND cry, then this might be the book for you.
April 9, 2023
Ups and downs all the way thru!
I love the friendship, the family and friends relatability. I laughed out loud, then went " oh, maybe I shouldn't have laughed" but it was so situationally funny!!. The is a book with some real meaty topics to discuss, several triggers warnings. Yet, it is presented with really down right bantering humor. In the end, I could really feel the love. Don't hesitate--read it!!
I love the friendship, the family and friends relatability. I laughed out loud, then went " oh, maybe I shouldn't have laughed" but it was so situationally funny!!. The is a book with some real meaty topics to discuss, several triggers warnings. Yet, it is presented with really down right bantering humor. In the end, I could really feel the love. Don't hesitate--read it!!
Read
September 28, 2021This book is weird-it described itself as laugh out loud funny. Not sure about that. The funniest part was Amy and Ben in the restaurant playing detective for Elle
But many other areas of the book are sad. She has a great hubby who loves her to death, thank goodness. Elle is a mess can’t believe they thought that would be a good pair!
But many other areas of the book are sad. She has a great hubby who loves her to death, thank goodness. Elle is a mess can’t believe they thought that would be a good pair!
March 14, 2019
OMG!! This is just a fun book. I had no idea what to think after reading the synopsis. I laughed out loud so many times and I cried, too. I will seek out more books by this author. She's really one of a kind and I may have a girl crush on her. LOL
September 25, 2019
Prepare to laugh your ass off.
This book is so good. I laughed. I cried. I peed my pants. You get the picture. I’m so happy to find there are additional books about these people. There is depth here mixed in with the hilarity.
This book is so good. I laughed. I cried. I peed my pants. You get the picture. I’m so happy to find there are additional books about these people. There is depth here mixed in with the hilarity.
November 2, 2019
Hilarious!
While dealing with the very serious topic of depression, this character manages to make me laugh out loud which is quite a feat. I loved Amy and Elle and can’t wait to read the next in the series.
While dealing with the very serious topic of depression, this character manages to make me laugh out loud which is quite a feat. I loved Amy and Elle and can’t wait to read the next in the series.
January 9, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! Breezy, LOL funny, easy read with characters that are relatae and likeable. I will be reading the next 2 in this series! I enjoy the author's humor and writing style. Great read!
January 16, 2020
I couldn’t finish this book because the language was just too unnecessarily harsh. I am not big on the f word and it’s in about every other sentence with Elle. I was genuinely interested in the story line, though. Maybe one day I’ll pick it back up, but for today, I can do without it.
April 29, 2020
A serious subject with a lot of laughter along the way. An easy, enjoyable read. It's the first book I actually looked forward to picking up and getting lost in in a few reads. Looking forward to continuing the series.
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