What do you think?
Rate this book
Something Like Happy
Jade is just trying to get by. She doesn’t want to talk about it. She doesn’t want a fuss.
But one day she meets Nick and everything changes.
Out of the most difficult of situations, Nick and Jade’s friendship grows into something both of them never knew they needed.
Jade used to be sure that she was better off alone. But could it be that together, with Nick by her side, she can start to feel something like happy again?
But one day she meets Nick and everything changes.
Out of the most difficult of situations, Nick and Jade’s friendship grows into something both of them never knew they needed.
Jade used to be sure that she was better off alone. But could it be that together, with Nick by her side, she can start to feel something like happy again?
- GenresRomance
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 13, 2019
9 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
About the author
Sasha Greene
4 books7 followersI live in Glasgow, and my book is set in this amazing city, which has a beating heart all of its own.
I first started writing stories when I was a child and they were full of witches, wizards and magic animals. These days I am more fascinated by the real world, particularly people and relationships. I love writing romance stories!
I'm really passionate about creating writing that reflects the diverse society that Britain is today, and in my first book, Something Like Happy, I've tried to reflect the diverse range of characters that you can find in Glasgow. I hope you enjoy it! I'd love to hear what you think of it.
I first started writing stories when I was a child and they were full of witches, wizards and magic animals. These days I am more fascinated by the real world, particularly people and relationships. I love writing romance stories!
I'm really passionate about creating writing that reflects the diverse society that Britain is today, and in my first book, Something Like Happy, I've tried to reflect the diverse range of characters that you can find in Glasgow. I hope you enjoy it! I'd love to hear what you think of it.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 23, 2019
‘How is it possible to be happy and sad at the same time? Because that’s what I’m feeling today. Like there’s a black cloud over everything. But then you just made me laugh. Which just feels weird.’📖Something Like Happy📖
🖋Sasha Greene
Read as an eARC.
Buy Now: Amazon ● Barnes & Noble ● Kobo
📚 Series: No.
📚 Genre: General Fiction with a little Romance.
📚 POV: Alternating first person.
📚 Cliffhanger: No.
⚠ Content Warnings: Depression. Suicide. Cyberbullying. Bullying.
Something Like Happy is a simple book about ordinary people with ordinary lives trying to live a good life while managing mental health struggles. It tells the story about Nick and Jade in a way that is easily relatable and feels very real, like they are a personal friend or acquaintance.
Nick was planning to jump off a bridge when he was interrupted by Jade. Jade was able to talk him out of it and challenging him to complete a Happy List, which is basically like a bucket list but for simple, ordinary things that will make you happy but you might forget to do every once in a while.
Their friendship grows, and is promising to grow into something more. But Jade has her own dark past and own pain to deal with which might hinder her into committing to a relationship. Will she fight when she is starting to feel something like happy.
"She would tell her to go for it. To not be afraid. To fall in love . But it wasn’t the love she was worried about, it was the loss on the other side of it."I personally have no qualms with this book except for the fact that the alternating POVs switch with no warning. No page breaks and no chapter breaks and sometimes in every paragraph. I hope the final work will be cleaner, as I have received an uncorrected proof.
All in all, still a good story and a great attempt for mental health awareness.
Much thanks to NetGalley, Harper Impulse and Killer Reads for this complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and opinions are fully my own.
☁ THE CRITERIA ☁
🌻 Blurb:⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Hero:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Heroine:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Support Characters:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Writing Style:⭐⭐
🌻 Character Development:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Romance:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Pacing:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Ending:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Page Turner:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Book Cover:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
☁FINAL VERDICT: 3.18/5 ☁
May 7, 2019
DNF @ 57%
I wanted to like this book. I really did. I liked the setting in Glasgow. I appreciate the attempt to tackle a subject like depression and suicide. I just couldn’t get into the story or get attached to the main characters. I personally very much dislike head hopping in books—changing POVs back and forth without some kind of clean paragraph break or chapter ending—and it made this more difficult to read because I wasn’t always sure whose head I was in. Also the role of Nick’s mental health in their relationship is something that was hard for me to read for personal reasons. Others may enjoy this more than I did, but it wasn’t for me.
(Note: I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)
I wanted to like this book. I really did. I liked the setting in Glasgow. I appreciate the attempt to tackle a subject like depression and suicide. I just couldn’t get into the story or get attached to the main characters. I personally very much dislike head hopping in books—changing POVs back and forth without some kind of clean paragraph break or chapter ending—and it made this more difficult to read because I wasn’t always sure whose head I was in. Also the role of Nick’s mental health in their relationship is something that was hard for me to read for personal reasons. Others may enjoy this more than I did, but it wasn’t for me.
(Note: I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)
May 18, 2019
I almost didn't read this because it only had two reviews on Goodreads and both were low ratings but I actually really loved it. A few people were saying that they didn't like the jump between POVs but I didn't find it confusing at all.
The story starts with Nick about to take his own life and Jade finds him, making the decision to help him by meeting up with him every Saturday to do something from her 'Happy List'. He doesn't realise that she has lost someone close to her due to suicide and she blames herself for that.
It's a great novel focusing on a normal person and struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. The pace was good, I found myself unable to put the book down because I wanted to see how it ended and I really enjoyed it.
The story starts with Nick about to take his own life and Jade finds him, making the decision to help him by meeting up with him every Saturday to do something from her 'Happy List'. He doesn't realise that she has lost someone close to her due to suicide and she blames herself for that.
It's a great novel focusing on a normal person and struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. The pace was good, I found myself unable to put the book down because I wanted to see how it ended and I really enjoyed it.
October 16, 2019
After reading some bad reviews on this book, I just knew I had to give it a go. You can't help but like the characters of Jade and Nick. I also believe any book that brings awareness of mental health, deserves recognition.
With a few tweaks here and there I think those bad reviews will stop. I enjoyed it 3.5*
With a few tweaks here and there I think those bad reviews will stop. I enjoyed it 3.5*
July 17, 2019
A thoughtful read - the romance is there, the characters are likeable, but rather than drastic battles against an anti-hero, there is insight into the day-to-day nastinesses and lovely gestures of everyday people, along with people's efforts to keep going and make a life. Every day bravery. Have now read it twice!
May 30, 2021
I have to be honest I really wanted to love this book but I just didn’t as much as I tried. Numerous times I wanted to DNF but I just hate doing that so struggled through.
I want to give this book 5/5 for the subject matter of mental health and suicide. This is a really important topic and I’m glad the author chose this for the story, it’s very commendable. However....the book continuously swapped between POV with these tiny little paragraphs. While the POV changing didn’t confuse me like some have said, I just didn’t like that style and the tiny short paragraphs. It felt to bitty and you never really got into the flow of reading. It was very back and forth. Also I just did not like the characters and couldn’t relate to them despite the fact I have family members with mental health issues and personally dealt with suicide.
I can see where the author was going with the story but it just did not work for me.
Would I read this author again? If the book was set out in the same style 100% no but if it wasn’t I’d probably give it a try. To be honest I don’t even know if this author has any other work published but I’ll keep an eye out.
I want to give this book 5/5 for the subject matter of mental health and suicide. This is a really important topic and I’m glad the author chose this for the story, it’s very commendable. However....the book continuously swapped between POV with these tiny little paragraphs. While the POV changing didn’t confuse me like some have said, I just didn’t like that style and the tiny short paragraphs. It felt to bitty and you never really got into the flow of reading. It was very back and forth. Also I just did not like the characters and couldn’t relate to them despite the fact I have family members with mental health issues and personally dealt with suicide.
I can see where the author was going with the story but it just did not work for me.
Would I read this author again? If the book was set out in the same style 100% no but if it wasn’t I’d probably give it a try. To be honest I don’t even know if this author has any other work published but I’ll keep an eye out.
November 15, 2019
Loved this. My first Sasha Greene book and definitely won’t be the last.
It’s the story of Nick and Jade. He’s suffering with poor mental health and she’s dealt with mental health issues in the past. They met in the most unconventional way and we learn more about their lives as the story unfolds.
Very well written, you are able to bring the characters and places to life in your head with the vivid descriptions.
It was difficult to put down as I was keen to see how the plot developed. The ending wasn’t predictable which makes a refreshing change.
It’s the story of Nick and Jade. He’s suffering with poor mental health and she’s dealt with mental health issues in the past. They met in the most unconventional way and we learn more about their lives as the story unfolds.
Very well written, you are able to bring the characters and places to life in your head with the vivid descriptions.
It was difficult to put down as I was keen to see how the plot developed. The ending wasn’t predictable which makes a refreshing change.
January 12, 2021
Jade meets Nick at what is probably the most important time in his life.
A brave comment from Jade will change Nick's life, but will she let him change hers?
This beautiful book is so full of emotion I think it covers them all; sadness, grief, happiness, despair, pride, anger, selfishness. I felt it all with Nick and Jade.
Sasha Greene writes wonderfully, seamlessly switching between Nick and Jade throughout the story.
At a time where mental health and the #bekind is so important, this book really resonates with me.
I lost a star, purely because I would have liked to know a bit more of what happened between the ending and the epilogue.
TW: depression, suicide
A brave comment from Jade will change Nick's life, but will she let him change hers?
This beautiful book is so full of emotion I think it covers them all; sadness, grief, happiness, despair, pride, anger, selfishness. I felt it all with Nick and Jade.
Sasha Greene writes wonderfully, seamlessly switching between Nick and Jade throughout the story.
At a time where mental health and the #bekind is so important, this book really resonates with me.
I lost a star, purely because I would have liked to know a bit more of what happened between the ending and the epilogue.
TW: depression, suicide
November 2, 2024
Why do authors always rush the ending ?
For such a good story the ending really ruined this for me.
For such a good story the ending really ruined this for me.
September 13, 2019
Round up to 3.5 stars.
Something Like Happy is easy to read, although heavily focused on mental health (trigger warning).
Jade has had a tough past year, dealing with the death of a family member, when she meets Nick, who is having his own troubles and finding difficulty in his move to Glasgow.
Pushing aside her grief, Jade decides to help Nick discover different ways to find happiness and refocus his energy in a more positive manner.
But will it be enough to get Nick out of his depression? Will her efforts only remind Jade of her own grief, or help her accept what has happened?
Greene does a solid job of writing about mental health issues cropping up in the daily lives of everyday people. She creates relatable characters and realistic situations we can see ourselves and those around us in.
Something Like Happy is easy to read, although heavily focused on mental health (trigger warning).
Jade has had a tough past year, dealing with the death of a family member, when she meets Nick, who is having his own troubles and finding difficulty in his move to Glasgow.
Pushing aside her grief, Jade decides to help Nick discover different ways to find happiness and refocus his energy in a more positive manner.
But will it be enough to get Nick out of his depression? Will her efforts only remind Jade of her own grief, or help her accept what has happened?
Greene does a solid job of writing about mental health issues cropping up in the daily lives of everyday people. She creates relatable characters and realistic situations we can see ourselves and those around us in.
January 1, 2023
loved this! read in one day
Read
June 5, 2019Something Like Happy was filled with hilarious, warm-hearted and romantic moments. It actually reminds me of the movie 'Than Came You'
Warnings: mentions of depression and suicide
Jade finds Nick about to jump off a bridge and manages to talk him out of it. To convince him to live she creates a 'happy list' a collective of events that they have to do every week that will ignite happiness within.
As their friendship grows when they are together every weekend checking things off events on the list, it seems to be growing into something even more. However Jade has had her fair share of sadness and unfortunate events, from this she has issues with trusting people and going into a relationship.
The power of love is phenomenal and can cure people in the way we do not expect. This book beautifully implicates the fact that by surrounding yourself with happiness and love, you can come out of anything.
I have to admit it did take me a while to get into the book as I often find it hard to address and read about topics related to mental health. However, the storyline and Jade's enthusiasm and love for Nick really pushed me to finish this book and learned the lesson that with love and happiness anything is possible.
I was generously provided an ARC of this novel by the publisher and author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and views expressed are my own.
Warnings: mentions of depression and suicide
Jade finds Nick about to jump off a bridge and manages to talk him out of it. To convince him to live she creates a 'happy list' a collective of events that they have to do every week that will ignite happiness within.
As their friendship grows when they are together every weekend checking things off events on the list, it seems to be growing into something even more. However Jade has had her fair share of sadness and unfortunate events, from this she has issues with trusting people and going into a relationship.
The power of love is phenomenal and can cure people in the way we do not expect. This book beautifully implicates the fact that by surrounding yourself with happiness and love, you can come out of anything.
I have to admit it did take me a while to get into the book as I often find it hard to address and read about topics related to mental health. However, the storyline and Jade's enthusiasm and love for Nick really pushed me to finish this book and learned the lesson that with love and happiness anything is possible.
I was generously provided an ARC of this novel by the publisher and author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and views expressed are my own.
August 16, 2019
Thanks to Netgalley for this book! I went into this book knowing nothing about it, which was a blessing; because if I had, I might not have picked it up at all.
Not to say that I didn't like this. Quite the opposite.
The story opens with Nick on a bridge, getting ready to kill himself. He's had a bad day, but on top of everything else that's been going on, he's more than ready to end it. Jade happens upon him and talks him down, convinces him to meet her next week to do something on what she calls a 'happy list' and that's where the story begins.
The story is simply written and what you see is what you get. However, the subject matter is immediately recognisable. To everyone who's suffered from depression at one point, so much of Nick's life will ring true. Jade's guilt, her reluctance to be with Nick who is clearly troubled but unwilling to seek (professional) help; all are emotions that we might have experienced at one time or another.
Having said that, I thought the writing seemed rushed in parts. The plot lacked certain details necessary to understand the motivations of the character better. I'm not entirely sure what Nick's great idea at the end even is.
Overall, this is a simple, breezy read which is perfect for a saturday evening read, curled up in bed.
Not to say that I didn't like this. Quite the opposite.
The story opens with Nick on a bridge, getting ready to kill himself. He's had a bad day, but on top of everything else that's been going on, he's more than ready to end it. Jade happens upon him and talks him down, convinces him to meet her next week to do something on what she calls a 'happy list' and that's where the story begins.
The story is simply written and what you see is what you get. However, the subject matter is immediately recognisable. To everyone who's suffered from depression at one point, so much of Nick's life will ring true. Jade's guilt, her reluctance to be with Nick who is clearly troubled but unwilling to seek (professional) help; all are emotions that we might have experienced at one time or another.
Having said that, I thought the writing seemed rushed in parts. The plot lacked certain details necessary to understand the motivations of the character better. I'm not entirely sure what Nick's great idea at the end even is.
Overall, this is a simple, breezy read which is perfect for a saturday evening read, curled up in bed.
May 19, 2019
The story starts with Nick about to jump off a bridge, that’s when Jade finds him. When she saw him on the bridge, she knows she has to talk him out of do it, because she has issues too and knows how hard it is. So she tells him about her 'Happy List', Nick is curious about this list and they agree to meet every Saturday to do something from it.
Jade and Nick spend some time together and get to know each other, she always thought that she was better off alone, with her guilt, but with Nick she start to feel happy again.
I really liked the book, I think it is important to discuss the issue of depression, something that affect most of us, or has affected us at some point in our lives. I loved so much Nick’s character. I liked the pace, it wasn’t boring at any point and always kept me hooked. The only thing I think that could have improved a bit was the POV transitions, they were not very clean, but other than that, I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Sasha Greene, NetGalley, Harper Impulse and Killer for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jade and Nick spend some time together and get to know each other, she always thought that she was better off alone, with her guilt, but with Nick she start to feel happy again.
I really liked the book, I think it is important to discuss the issue of depression, something that affect most of us, or has affected us at some point in our lives. I loved so much Nick’s character. I liked the pace, it wasn’t boring at any point and always kept me hooked. The only thing I think that could have improved a bit was the POV transitions, they were not very clean, but other than that, I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Sasha Greene, NetGalley, Harper Impulse and Killer for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2019
Something like happy- I love reading books that provide glimpsehs into real life mental health issues and this book perfectly fit the bill.
This book is much more than a romance and serendipity. Jade and Nick, through their relationship, shed different perspectives on how mental illness effects everyone in everyday life. Both points of view are valid and relevant today.
All the characters they interact with are real and go along way to prove that- it takes a village even in to adulthood.
I liked how mental illness is portrayed and that being in love is to shown as the cure. The emphasis put on talking out feelings is a very important message to others in similar situations, especially, young adults.
However, the changes in the POV could have been better. It seemed haphazard and distracting at times. The book also reminded me alot of How to fall in love by Cecelia Ahern which is another spectacular read.
*A copy of this book was sent to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All ratings and opinions are based solely on my personal preference*
Luanna
This book is much more than a romance and serendipity. Jade and Nick, through their relationship, shed different perspectives on how mental illness effects everyone in everyday life. Both points of view are valid and relevant today.
All the characters they interact with are real and go along way to prove that- it takes a village even in to adulthood.
I liked how mental illness is portrayed and that being in love is to shown as the cure. The emphasis put on talking out feelings is a very important message to others in similar situations, especially, young adults.
However, the changes in the POV could have been better. It seemed haphazard and distracting at times. The book also reminded me alot of How to fall in love by Cecelia Ahern which is another spectacular read.
*A copy of this book was sent to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All ratings and opinions are based solely on my personal preference*
Luanna
February 14, 2020
I didn't mind the book, and it was good to have a book open about mental health issues and suicide, however, it just didn't seem to flow well.
I had no issues with the perspective hopping between the paragraphs as other people mention, it just didn't really make me want to keep reading.
I had no issues with the perspective hopping between the paragraphs as other people mention, it just didn't really make me want to keep reading.
October 25, 2020
this book was an amazing read and really emotional. it was nice to read something realistic and knowing that characters I read about can relate to me personally just felt really welcoming
July 15, 2021
Slow start but has a good quote. ‘Depression lies’
October 26, 2019
‘They say that everything passes. But I don’t think it does. I think emotions are like the sea. It’s sometimes smooth and sunny, and sometimes the wind is blowing so hard you think you’re going to sink.’
When Jade sees Nick standing on a Glasgow bridge with closed eyes and white knuckles, she simply can’t walk on by. He looks like a young man who is contemplating suicide. In him, she sees a chance to atone for her perceived failings regarding her own sister’s death. So she talks to Nick, offers him her “happy list”—a list of the things she does to lift her spirits when she’s sliding into despair. Nick is curious, intrigued by the girl with jet black hair and a penchant for swearing, so he agrees to meet her the following week and undertake the first thing on the list.
Something Like Happy is a gently paced exploration of depression, despair and the way ordinary people can lose sight of themselves. “Depression lies”, Jade tells Nick; it distorts the lens through which people see themselves, can set them on a path to self-destruction. As Nick and Jade grow closer, their feelings for each other deepen, but this is a romance that is firmly anchored in reality, so there is no quick fix for Jade’s guilt or Nick’s depression. Jade never suggests that the “happy list” is a cure; it’s simply her way of coping. She hopes that it will help Nick, but she also urges him to seek professional help.
Sasha Greene handles a difficult subject sensitively, and in Jade and Nick has created two troubled young characters whose experiences are bound to resonate with anyone who has been through the things that they are going through. Along with authors like Matt Haig, Greene is to be commended for bringing mental health into the spotlight, and for steering clear of suggesting that there is one magic cure for depression. Love helps; understanding helps. A walk in the mountains can help…but the key is realising that you don’t have to be alone; all you have to do is reach out. Being a romantic old thing, I’m pleased that Greene gives Nick and Jade a happy ever after… or something like it anyway.
When Jade sees Nick standing on a Glasgow bridge with closed eyes and white knuckles, she simply can’t walk on by. He looks like a young man who is contemplating suicide. In him, she sees a chance to atone for her perceived failings regarding her own sister’s death. So she talks to Nick, offers him her “happy list”—a list of the things she does to lift her spirits when she’s sliding into despair. Nick is curious, intrigued by the girl with jet black hair and a penchant for swearing, so he agrees to meet her the following week and undertake the first thing on the list.
Something Like Happy is a gently paced exploration of depression, despair and the way ordinary people can lose sight of themselves. “Depression lies”, Jade tells Nick; it distorts the lens through which people see themselves, can set them on a path to self-destruction. As Nick and Jade grow closer, their feelings for each other deepen, but this is a romance that is firmly anchored in reality, so there is no quick fix for Jade’s guilt or Nick’s depression. Jade never suggests that the “happy list” is a cure; it’s simply her way of coping. She hopes that it will help Nick, but she also urges him to seek professional help.
Sasha Greene handles a difficult subject sensitively, and in Jade and Nick has created two troubled young characters whose experiences are bound to resonate with anyone who has been through the things that they are going through. Along with authors like Matt Haig, Greene is to be commended for bringing mental health into the spotlight, and for steering clear of suggesting that there is one magic cure for depression. Love helps; understanding helps. A walk in the mountains can help…but the key is realising that you don’t have to be alone; all you have to do is reach out. Being a romantic old thing, I’m pleased that Greene gives Nick and Jade a happy ever after… or something like it anyway.
June 3, 2019
2.5⭐️ I was very excited to read this story about every day people struggling with mental illness. May being Mental Health Awareness Month seems like a wonderful time to publish and share this book topic with the world. The story starts with Nick standing on a bridge ready to commit suicide. Jade happens to be walking by and feels compelled to stop and talk to him in order to distract him from what he was obviously about to do. The story unfolds as Jade challenges Nick to do different things with her every Saturday in order to give him something to look forward to and a purpose. As they spend more time together they begin to learn more about each other's secrets.
I enjoyed the fact that the main character was a male and suffered with depression. There are many books out in the world where a woman is the main character and is the one struggling with a mental illness of some sort. I enjoyed the perspective of Nick and how we were able to better understand what it feels like for someone to have depression, especially a mail figure. I also enjoyed that both characters were flawed. Jade had her own family and personal issues as well which helped the story to seem more real and was much more effective. I also loved the addition of the older characters in the story and the depth they brought to the storyline. I found that part to be very interesting and unique.
Unfortunately, I didn't really connect with the characters until late into the story. I also would have liked to know more about Nick's conversation with his dad about his depression. I feel like their storyline and the relevance of Nick's dad's depression wasn't explored enough, which left it feeling a little flat for me.
I am grateful that stories like this are being put out into the world. The more we read about characters that are living with various mental illnesses the more opportunity for the stigmas to be broken apart that surround mental illness.
Thank you @netgalley & @harperimpulse for my free digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed the fact that the main character was a male and suffered with depression. There are many books out in the world where a woman is the main character and is the one struggling with a mental illness of some sort. I enjoyed the perspective of Nick and how we were able to better understand what it feels like for someone to have depression, especially a mail figure. I also enjoyed that both characters were flawed. Jade had her own family and personal issues as well which helped the story to seem more real and was much more effective. I also loved the addition of the older characters in the story and the depth they brought to the storyline. I found that part to be very interesting and unique.
Unfortunately, I didn't really connect with the characters until late into the story. I also would have liked to know more about Nick's conversation with his dad about his depression. I feel like their storyline and the relevance of Nick's dad's depression wasn't explored enough, which left it feeling a little flat for me.
I am grateful that stories like this are being put out into the world. The more we read about characters that are living with various mental illnesses the more opportunity for the stigmas to be broken apart that surround mental illness.
Thank you @netgalley & @harperimpulse for my free digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 22, 2021
𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 : Something Like Happy
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 : @sashagreeneauthor
My first read of a book about Mental Health
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
𝑺𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 :
📚
Nick is exhausted by his useless life, and can't bring himself to understand some things. He meets Jade in a situation he never dreamt of. Jade, after a terrific year, has come back to same place where she never wanted to return.
📚
Interestingly, Jade has a list of happy things to do, and is unconsciously happy to involve herself with Nick. On the other hand, Nick is starting to feel after all his life wasn't as bad. A few other friends join their journey which makes Nick realize what he may have missed. Having said that, does Jade have the courage to face another risky relationship? What makes Nick feel that he should rethink his life and some decisions? Will Jade let go of something she has now, because of something that happened in the past?
𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
Trigger Warning. Lot of situations and plots about stress, mental health and suicidal intentions. Please do not read if you are affected by any of these. Apart from that, the story is pretty gripping, something I haven't read before. I picked a couple of books before this one, but couldn't get myself to complete any, so this was good. Kept me hooked thill the last page.
𝑻𝒂𝒈𝒔:
#bookreview #readreviewrecommend #mybookshelf18 #mybookshelf #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #booklife #bookreviews #bookphotography #bookoholic #bookworm #bookcommunity #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #bookphoto #booknerd #bookclub #reviewer #reviews #booklist #bookreaders #bookshelf #sashagreene #richardandjudybookclub #goodreadschallenge #goodreads #booksofinstagram #bookstack #ilovereading #sonalisbookclub #bookrecommendations #bookphotography
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 : @sashagreeneauthor
My first read of a book about Mental Health
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
𝑺𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 :
📚
Nick is exhausted by his useless life, and can't bring himself to understand some things. He meets Jade in a situation he never dreamt of. Jade, after a terrific year, has come back to same place where she never wanted to return.
📚
Interestingly, Jade has a list of happy things to do, and is unconsciously happy to involve herself with Nick. On the other hand, Nick is starting to feel after all his life wasn't as bad. A few other friends join their journey which makes Nick realize what he may have missed. Having said that, does Jade have the courage to face another risky relationship? What makes Nick feel that he should rethink his life and some decisions? Will Jade let go of something she has now, because of something that happened in the past?
𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
Trigger Warning. Lot of situations and plots about stress, mental health and suicidal intentions. Please do not read if you are affected by any of these. Apart from that, the story is pretty gripping, something I haven't read before. I picked a couple of books before this one, but couldn't get myself to complete any, so this was good. Kept me hooked thill the last page.
𝑻𝒂𝒈𝒔:
#bookreview #readreviewrecommend #mybookshelf18 #mybookshelf #bookrecommendations #bookreviewer #booklife #bookreviews #bookphotography #bookoholic #bookworm #bookcommunity #bookstagrammer #bookstagram #bookphoto #booknerd #bookclub #reviewer #reviews #booklist #bookreaders #bookshelf #sashagreene #richardandjudybookclub #goodreadschallenge #goodreads #booksofinstagram #bookstack #ilovereading #sonalisbookclub #bookrecommendations #bookphotography
August 4, 2023
This book was pretty light-hearted as it explored depression and its impact on work, friendships and love. Nick was charming and Jade was sweetly fierce. The beginning was certainly attention grabbing and immediately made me feel empahetic for Nick -- "the ache of loneliness" --
Jade's offer of friendship with her list of how to be happy was so simple, and yet had such an impact - not just on Nick, but on so many people!
There's a phrase I hear quite a bit - 'be kind to people; you never know what they are going through.
This is a book about a regular guy and an ordinary girl who fall in love. It's also a book about real life: how to deal with the ups and downs and boldly looks at how mental health plays a role. Despite the heavy and serious nature of depression and suicide, this book is sweet and heart-warming.
I received a dARC from the publisher via Netgalley; this is my honest review.
Jade's offer of friendship with her list of how to be happy was so simple, and yet had such an impact - not just on Nick, but on so many people!
There's a phrase I hear quite a bit - 'be kind to people; you never know what they are going through.
This is a book about a regular guy and an ordinary girl who fall in love. It's also a book about real life: how to deal with the ups and downs and boldly looks at how mental health plays a role. Despite the heavy and serious nature of depression and suicide, this book is sweet and heart-warming.
I received a dARC from the publisher via Netgalley; this is my honest review.
April 20, 2022
I really wanted to like this book and the theme of depression, especially male depression is a great idea as it is real.
However, this book did not seem to flow, there was no real storyline to it and I felt it bounced around a lo.
I liked the idea short paragraphs, that's what made it easy to read but felt it did just go from one bit to another.
Jade's background with what happened to her sister could of been explored better as could of Nick's life and what led him to where he was.
There was a lot of the middle of the story that I felt didn't need to be there but could of been used to get into the theme more. I also felt it ended abruptly and if what had happened at the end to Nick had happened on the middle then there may of been chance to look at the help that can be given for depression.
However, this book did not seem to flow, there was no real storyline to it and I felt it bounced around a lo.
I liked the idea short paragraphs, that's what made it easy to read but felt it did just go from one bit to another.
Jade's background with what happened to her sister could of been explored better as could of Nick's life and what led him to where he was.
There was a lot of the middle of the story that I felt didn't need to be there but could of been used to get into the theme more. I also felt it ended abruptly and if what had happened at the end to Nick had happened on the middle then there may of been chance to look at the help that can be given for depression.
May 16, 2019
I honestly didn't expect to connect with this book as much as I did. The first quarter of the book was tough to get into specially with the jumping between POVs without a clean break. But as I continued reading I found myself relating to Nick in some ways and liking Jade. She wasn't the unrealistic love interest that magically fixes everything and depression is cured through the power of love. I liked the way this book dealt with mental health as it felt so natural, real and honest. And I was pleasantly surprised that the book overall was for the most part upbeat. It was exactly what I needed to end this day.
Thanks to NetGalley, Sasha Greene, Harper Impulse and Killer for the ARC in exchange for this honest review!
Thanks to NetGalley, Sasha Greene, Harper Impulse and Killer for the ARC in exchange for this honest review!
November 13, 2019
When Jade spots Nick leaning over a Glasgow bridge, she’s certain he’s in trouble and feels compelled to act. She manages talk him back from the brink by telling him about her “happy list”, activities designed to stave off depression. Each week Nick must attempt something new from the list. A gentle friendship blossoms, with the promise of romance. But Jade has her own demons to overcome, which raise barriers in the relationship. Both Nick and Jade must confront their past in order to find a future together.
This is a well-crafted story, which offers an insight into the issues of loneliness and depression. The novel's characters span different generations and are well drawn and sympathetic.
I would definitely recommend this book and would read more books by this author.
This is a well-crafted story, which offers an insight into the issues of loneliness and depression. The novel's characters span different generations and are well drawn and sympathetic.
I would definitely recommend this book and would read more books by this author.
December 10, 2019
Nick tries to commit suicide driven by his depression and unfulfilling job, he climbs to the edge of a building...
Then Jade stops him, bearing the weight of her sister's suicide she wants to prevent anyone else going the same way.
Jade gets Nick to meet up with her and pursue her happy list from days out with Archie an old man
from an elderly folks home, to yoga and dinner dates together the pair find a unique kind of happy from such a horrible situation. But can it last?
This was a fantastic book all about the impact and choice of suicide. It was a deep and tearful read to get through but so much happened I flew through it in a day. A fabulous debut about an ever important topic.
Then Jade stops him, bearing the weight of her sister's suicide she wants to prevent anyone else going the same way.
Jade gets Nick to meet up with her and pursue her happy list from days out with Archie an old man
from an elderly folks home, to yoga and dinner dates together the pair find a unique kind of happy from such a horrible situation. But can it last?
This was a fantastic book all about the impact and choice of suicide. It was a deep and tearful read to get through but so much happened I flew through it in a day. A fabulous debut about an ever important topic.
June 14, 2019
Something Like Happy: If I were to only have one word to describe this book it would be simple; Real. Sasha Greene not only took on difficult situations and complex characters she also left you with a promise of tomorrow.
Nick and Jade fall clumsily together and their friendship takes a number of bumps and bruises. This book is not thoughtless and neither is it ostentatious. Real words. Real hurt. Real people.
“Lose a leg, he thought viciously and everyone feels sorry for you. Lose yourself, and nobody cares. “
Thanks to @netgalley and @harperimpulse for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Nick and Jade fall clumsily together and their friendship takes a number of bumps and bruises. This book is not thoughtless and neither is it ostentatious. Real words. Real hurt. Real people.
“Lose a leg, he thought viciously and everyone feels sorry for you. Lose yourself, and nobody cares. “
Thanks to @netgalley and @harperimpulse for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2023
A story of the day to day struggles of mental illness.
Two people who are impacted by depression in different ways.
Jade meets Nick as he is contemplating jumping off a bridge. What she says to him will change both of their lives forever.
The descriptions of how suddenly life can turn to despair felt so real. The characters felt so real. I was rooting for them both throughout the book.
This wasn't an easy book for me to read, but felt like the book I needed to read. Although it is fiction, it sheds light on the realities of mental illness.
Thanks to netgalley and One More Chapter for the opportunity to read this book.
Two people who are impacted by depression in different ways.
Jade meets Nick as he is contemplating jumping off a bridge. What she says to him will change both of their lives forever.
The descriptions of how suddenly life can turn to despair felt so real. The characters felt so real. I was rooting for them both throughout the book.
This wasn't an easy book for me to read, but felt like the book I needed to read. Although it is fiction, it sheds light on the realities of mental illness.
Thanks to netgalley and One More Chapter for the opportunity to read this book.
July 7, 2025
i liked the book well enough i think, but oh my god, can we talk about formatting? random time jumps, pov switches with no visual indicator, the fact that there even is paragraph breaks between every paragraph? took me several pages before i realized that it was every para and we weren't just skipping forward in time constantly. fine for a manuscript, should not be the case in a published book. it gave everything this stop-start flow because the gap makes me think it's a new scene. and no double gap for a new pov? if you want to do third person omniscient just do it, not constantly swapping between third person limiteds in the same chapter and often same page. what even
June 27, 2019
This book hit the spot for me. It's an excellent depiction of the struggles, discontent and melancholy that hits you in your early 20s. When you realize that adulthood is hard, but you don't know who to talk to about it or what you want to do with your life. It made be cry on several occasions, but in a cathartic way. It addresses depression without judgement or shame, but only has a state of being. Something that needs to be recognized and treated. Well done. Can't wait to read more from this author. (ARC via NetGalley)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews