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Kenneth: A Tale of Destiny, Disbelief, and Dry White Wine
A page-turning tale of fate, fortune, and far too much wine
The first time Kelly Coburn bumped into him, she brushed it off as a chance encounter.
The second time was no coincidence.
The third time, he dropped an impossible bombshell and left her with a head full of questions. Who is the mysterious man in the brown suit? What does he want from her? Is there any wine in the fridge?
As her life descends into chaos, Kelly’s questions lead her along a twisting path towards the truth — a truth she could never have imagined.
The first time Kelly Coburn bumped into him, she brushed it off as a chance encounter.
The second time was no coincidence.
The third time, he dropped an impossible bombshell and left her with a head full of questions. Who is the mysterious man in the brown suit? What does he want from her? Is there any wine in the fridge?
As her life descends into chaos, Kelly’s questions lead her along a twisting path towards the truth — a truth she could never have imagined.
399 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2019
137 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Keith A. Pearson
21 books434 followersI rarely visit Goodreads, on account it's a terrifying place for authors who aren't blessed with a thick skin.
If you'd like to know more about me, head over to my website, or you can follow me on Facebook or Twitter.
If you'd like to know more about me, head over to my website, or you can follow me on Facebook or Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
November 28, 2019
A great page-turner, albeit on my Kindle. I have enjoyed all of Pearson's books and this is well up to standard. Written from a woman's perspective, this is quite hilarious in places but it's a thrilling and yet heart-warming story. The role of Kenneth himself is somewhat obscure compared to other-worldly individuals in some of Pearson's other books - that's slightly disappointing but really it's peripheral to what actually goes on in the story. Definitely one of my favourite authors and I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
November 14, 2019
Another winner from Keith
I've read all of Keith's books and loved all of them. This one was no exception. Not being a writer I can't imagine how a man writes a book from a woman's perspective but Keith pulls it off admirably. You always know it's a good story when you're itching to know how it ends but at the same time you don't want it to. Can't recommend this, or any of Keith's other books highly enough
I've read all of Keith's books and loved all of them. This one was no exception. Not being a writer I can't imagine how a man writes a book from a woman's perspective but Keith pulls it off admirably. You always know it's a good story when you're itching to know how it ends but at the same time you don't want it to. Can't recommend this, or any of Keith's other books highly enough
April 6, 2021
Another lovely tale by Mr Pearson, a real fee-good one.
I’d have liked to have seen a little more of the title character, but splitting hairs really.
I’d have liked to have seen a little more of the title character, but splitting hairs really.
November 24, 2019
Sorry Mr Pearson but you can do better than this.
I've read 86'Fix and Beyond Broadhall and I loved them. But why all the 5 star reviews for this?
I found the book disappointing. Like the illustrations depicted on the outside packaging of ready meals, this bears nothing like the inside reality. However I persevered, thinking maybe it will get better, after all someone described it as "unputdownable", and yet another as "gripping". But for me it was like having a tooth pulled. I couldn't wait for it to be over. Towards the end I started skipping through the predictable romantic slush and sad to say I didn't read further than the epilogue . It was easy to read, but just as easy to forget!
I've read 86'Fix and Beyond Broadhall and I loved them. But why all the 5 star reviews for this?
I found the book disappointing. Like the illustrations depicted on the outside packaging of ready meals, this bears nothing like the inside reality. However I persevered, thinking maybe it will get better, after all someone described it as "unputdownable", and yet another as "gripping". But for me it was like having a tooth pulled. I couldn't wait for it to be over. Towards the end I started skipping through the predictable romantic slush and sad to say I didn't read further than the epilogue . It was easy to read, but just as easy to forget!
December 26, 2019
What's in a name?
This book had me guessing but not for long. It's a love story with a twist and I enjoyed reading it. Not a long read but worth it. The book although titled Kenneth is actually about Kelly and how her life changes by the most simplest thing that can happen. No spoilers here, go and read it.
This book had me guessing but not for long. It's a love story with a twist and I enjoyed reading it. Not a long read but worth it. The book although titled Kenneth is actually about Kelly and how her life changes by the most simplest thing that can happen. No spoilers here, go and read it.
January 11, 2020
A similar concept to the Clement trilogy although different. Kenneth does not make as many appearances in the story as Clement did in his three fine novels but still a good read, although the music tastes of Kelly are questionable and bland, however my music tastes are more left field. If you are a fan of Keith Pearson's work then you won't be disappointed.
Ray Smillie
Ray Smillie
January 27, 2020
Another great read
As the book promised: a page-turner indeed. Whizzed through it. A sweet story and really enjoyed it. Recommend all Keith's books.
As the book promised: a page-turner indeed. Whizzed through it. A sweet story and really enjoyed it. Recommend all Keith's books.
August 10, 2023
I just love this guy's books. And in this one, as well as spinning an engaging story, he did a truly wonderful job of writing from a woman's perspective. Well done Keith!
February 9, 2024
I did quite enjoy this silly book but there were many aspects of the characters that were not quite believable. Or if people were acting this way in real life, their behaviour would be questionable.
Why is this woman feeding someone else’s cat every morning? How is she getting through one or two bottles of wine in a night on such a regular basis? And a flashmob marriage proposal after 3 months of dating, oh dear.
The dialogue could have been more believable. I don’t know any women who call each other ‘chick’ and ‘hun’ as often as the women characters in this book.
This is an easy read and while I wasn’t gripped, I found myself turning the pages to find out what happens.
I will probably read more of his books (and I did really like In Lieu of You). However having spent the last few weeks binging on Kindle Unlimited books, I’m ready for something with more substance.
I just hope that Kelly returns that cat to its owners...
Why is this woman feeding someone else’s cat every morning? How is she getting through one or two bottles of wine in a night on such a regular basis? And a flashmob marriage proposal after 3 months of dating, oh dear.
The dialogue could have been more believable. I don’t know any women who call each other ‘chick’ and ‘hun’ as often as the women characters in this book.
This is an easy read and while I wasn’t gripped, I found myself turning the pages to find out what happens.
I will probably read more of his books (and I did really like In Lieu of You). However having spent the last few weeks binging on Kindle Unlimited books, I’m ready for something with more substance.
I just hope that Kelly returns that cat to its owners...
February 25, 2020
My least favorite of all Pearson’s books. There is far too much wine—have you ever downed a whole bottle by yourself?
NOTE: Pearson could certainly do with an editor. The hyper-correction of “and I” rather than “and me” after prepositions is more than a little irritating, and he does it Every Single Time. There’s also a scattering of bear/bare errors. It is also annoying that no one drinks/downs/gulps/anything—they “neck” it. They always “neck” it. Always. But by far, the most obvious (and annoying) is using the strange—to my ears anyway—sat/stood construct. Instead of “He was standing (or sitting) at the bar”, Pearson writes “He was stood (sat) at the bar.” He does this consistently no matter the education level or background of the character, no matter who is talking, no matter what. Arrrrrrrgh!
NOTE: Pearson could certainly do with an editor. The hyper-correction of “and I” rather than “and me” after prepositions is more than a little irritating, and he does it Every Single Time. There’s also a scattering of bear/bare errors. It is also annoying that no one drinks/downs/gulps/anything—they “neck” it. They always “neck” it. Always. But by far, the most obvious (and annoying) is using the strange—to my ears anyway—sat/stood construct. Instead of “He was standing (or sitting) at the bar”, Pearson writes “He was stood (sat) at the bar.” He does this consistently no matter the education level or background of the character, no matter who is talking, no matter what. Arrrrrrrgh!
February 17, 2022
I do like the premise of all the books this author has written; however, it takes FOREVER to get to the point. All his books follow a similar pattern with a down on their luck (mostly endearing) protagonist and one or two mystery characters. I do find the amount of superfluous narrative so unnecessary though. I always get frustrated and feel like putting his books down (or in my case, stop listening), but I am always sucked in, waiting for the reveal...and maybe that's what makes me keep coming back for more. After all, what do I know 🤔 😆
The narrator makes or breaks audible books and, despite some mispronunciation and samey accents, this narrator was......ok, and the book overall was......ok. Worth a listen, but not one I would listen to again and again.
The narrator makes or breaks audible books and, despite some mispronunciation and samey accents, this narrator was......ok, and the book overall was......ok. Worth a listen, but not one I would listen to again and again.
November 11, 2023
Interesting story with some funny dialogue and engaging characters. The premise of this mystery man Kenneth who keeps turning up with cryptic warnings and messages is interesting, but a shame that you never really get a proper explanation of who he is, or what he is doing. Kenneth's initial warnings seem pointless - who would take the advice of a stranger to give away a huge amount of money based on vague comments that if they don't something bad will happen. His explanation at the end of what is going on makes absolutely no sense what so ever. Kenneth says that she need to do one thing to avoid disaster, She doesn't do it and yet avoids disaster anyway. Worth reading, but dont think too much about the Kenneth character.
May 27, 2024
Mr Pearson never disappoints
Another page turning read that doesn't disappoint. I wasn't sure about this book, having read quite a few of Mr Pearson's other ones, such as the Mungo Thunk and the Clement series, and loved them. But Kenneth is equally as good. I love the familiarity that Mr. Pearson's books convey. The attention to detail, and well thought out narrative. Kenneth is a mysterious character appearing and disappearing at will, adding confusion to his existence by all who meet him. His presence in Kelly's is to assist her if only she could comprehend this until the mountain of events forces her to this conclusion. I look forward to Kenneth making another appearance in a future book.
Another page turning read that doesn't disappoint. I wasn't sure about this book, having read quite a few of Mr Pearson's other ones, such as the Mungo Thunk and the Clement series, and loved them. But Kenneth is equally as good. I love the familiarity that Mr. Pearson's books convey. The attention to detail, and well thought out narrative. Kenneth is a mysterious character appearing and disappearing at will, adding confusion to his existence by all who meet him. His presence in Kelly's is to assist her if only she could comprehend this until the mountain of events forces her to this conclusion. I look forward to Kenneth making another appearance in a future book.
November 14, 2019
More 5 stars for Keith ....
The excitement when the email arrived to tell me Kenneth has landed .
Just spent 2 glorious days reading Kenneth .
I simply adore Keith imaginative mind and the quirky characters he creates.
Kelly life has is tadge stagnant , she suffered loss heartache , and much more .
Throw in a evil bitter ex hubby , and the story takes you on a fabulous journey.
Characters so real , I want Martha to be my friend .
We all knew Kenneth would come good !
That said I prefer mungo or my hero Clemence ( see previous ) books .
Anyway basically if you want an amazing read then read this . I don’t leave 5 stars for just anyone .
The excitement when the email arrived to tell me Kenneth has landed .
Just spent 2 glorious days reading Kenneth .
I simply adore Keith imaginative mind and the quirky characters he creates.
Kelly life has is tadge stagnant , she suffered loss heartache , and much more .
Throw in a evil bitter ex hubby , and the story takes you on a fabulous journey.
Characters so real , I want Martha to be my friend .
We all knew Kenneth would come good !
That said I prefer mungo or my hero Clemence ( see previous ) books .
Anyway basically if you want an amazing read then read this . I don’t leave 5 stars for just anyone .
December 8, 2019
A real page turner!
What would happen if fate had chosen a unkind path for you, but somebody decided they wanted to help you along a better path?
Kelly is stuck in a boring office job, dealing with an ex-husband and sad memories of her parents death in a boating accident. Then things start to move in a direction she couldn't anticipate.
The story in this book creeps up on you. You're innocently reading along and then... wham! You're hooked and absolutely have to read the next chapter!
I've read a number of author Keith Pearson’s books and this one, like his others, is often hilarious, at times very touching, but always gripping.
Another great read from Pearson!
What would happen if fate had chosen a unkind path for you, but somebody decided they wanted to help you along a better path?
Kelly is stuck in a boring office job, dealing with an ex-husband and sad memories of her parents death in a boating accident. Then things start to move in a direction she couldn't anticipate.
The story in this book creeps up on you. You're innocently reading along and then... wham! You're hooked and absolutely have to read the next chapter!
I've read a number of author Keith Pearson’s books and this one, like his others, is often hilarious, at times very touching, but always gripping.
Another great read from Pearson!
December 13, 2023
Keith A. Pearson continues to write excellent provocative stories. 'Kenneth' is, as an afterthought, a love story much like 'A Day in your Diary' but without the time travel dimension. It is still totally absorbing and a bit mystical. We never know much about Kenneth but he is very influential much in the way of Mungo Thunk. Both seem to mystically know more than their mere human counterparts. The central figure in this book is a 39 year old woman, Kelly Coburn, whose believable emotions and desires simply attest to the versatility of Pearson as a writer. He designs a complicated plot with characters of every stripe imaginable. Thought provoking and philosophical, very entertaining.
December 10, 2023
Another great read!
Funny, dramatic, poignant, and a little mysterious, Pearson has the knack for telling a tale. This time it’s through the eyes of a female protagonist, and at the outset I was curious how he’d capture both a woman’s voice and thinking. Not being a woman, my thoughts on that would just be guesswork, so I’ll pass the book along to my wife and report back when she finishes it. Regardless, if Pearson based the women in the story on women he knows, he surely is leading an interesting life!
Funny, dramatic, poignant, and a little mysterious, Pearson has the knack for telling a tale. This time it’s through the eyes of a female protagonist, and at the outset I was curious how he’d capture both a woman’s voice and thinking. Not being a woman, my thoughts on that would just be guesswork, so I’ll pass the book along to my wife and report back when she finishes it. Regardless, if Pearson based the women in the story on women he knows, he surely is leading an interesting life!
November 30, 2019
Very disappointed with Kenneth. Read all Keith's books and loved them. So looked forward to reading Kenneth that I paused reading my current book to start reading it asap. Well what can I say! I were confident the book would be great. But not, started reading and I thought it must get better, I persisted, but it were just bland. I even skipped the last chapter, Mills and boons slush comes to mind. Sorry Keith, you can do much better.
February 20, 2020
Another cracker!
I really enjoy Keith's writing style - funny, realistic dialogue, not too heavy but makes you think. I think he's great at writing female characters too. My only minor annoyance with this one was the almost constant references to the protagonist needing a drink, getting drunk with her friend, being hungover, etc. A bit of any easy trope that took me back to Bridget Jones days :)
I really enjoy Keith's writing style - funny, realistic dialogue, not too heavy but makes you think. I think he's great at writing female characters too. My only minor annoyance with this one was the almost constant references to the protagonist needing a drink, getting drunk with her friend, being hungover, etc. A bit of any easy trope that took me back to Bridget Jones days :)
May 15, 2020
Truely love this wonderful story
l read voraciously and I can honestly say that not many authors tug the leathery old strings of my heart but this story had me laughing and crying and feeling all the emotions in between. I have now read all of Keith A Pearson (I didnt forget the A)work and can say with no shadow of a doubt that he is a fabulous author! If you like something a bit different read this and all the other stories. Most excellent sir!
l read voraciously and I can honestly say that not many authors tug the leathery old strings of my heart but this story had me laughing and crying and feeling all the emotions in between. I have now read all of Keith A Pearson (I didnt forget the A)work and can say with no shadow of a doubt that he is a fabulous author! If you like something a bit different read this and all the other stories. Most excellent sir!
October 8, 2023
This author is a favourite of mine. And Kenneth is a good example. The first half of sets up and fills out the characters and their relationships with each other. Admittedly I get a little impatient waiting for Kenneth to show up, but that is where the real story begins.
The second half is a hair raising ride to the end. I sat up to 3 a.m. to finish. It was worth it. And the ending was particularly satisfying.
Well done again, Mr. Pearson.
The second half is a hair raising ride to the end. I sat up to 3 a.m. to finish. It was worth it. And the ending was particularly satisfying.
Well done again, Mr. Pearson.
June 10, 2025
I hope there is going to be a other Kenneth book?
Since reading the Mungo Thunk and Clement books, Keith A Pearson is now my favourite author. I have now read Kenneth and loved it. But now I would like to read a bit more about Kenneth. But in the next book can we see more of him please? Because even though we knew of his existence we didn't really see much of him. It would be nice to see him much more in the next one. If there is going to be a next one Keith?
Since reading the Mungo Thunk and Clement books, Keith A Pearson is now my favourite author. I have now read Kenneth and loved it. But now I would like to read a bit more about Kenneth. But in the next book can we see more of him please? Because even though we knew of his existence we didn't really see much of him. It would be nice to see him much more in the next one. If there is going to be a next one Keith?
November 14, 2019
Loved it!
Keith’s 8th novel did not disappoint! As always it’s full of humour and wit but also touches on real life issues, loved the plot and the characters and no doubt I will read this again at some point while I wait for the next one! Couldn’t recommend this book enough (or any of Keith’s stuff in fact!) brilliant 😃😃
Keith’s 8th novel did not disappoint! As always it’s full of humour and wit but also touches on real life issues, loved the plot and the characters and no doubt I will read this again at some point while I wait for the next one! Couldn’t recommend this book enough (or any of Keith’s stuff in fact!) brilliant 😃😃
November 20, 2019
Another winner from Keith. If you have not read any of his books before, dive into this one. It is a tale of lost opportunities, good mates, and a fat ginger cat called Frank. As ever, Keith is a sharp observer of human nature - this time his narrator is a woman; and he gets it jolly well right. If you like a book to make you think, laugh and ponder why we exist, give it a go.
December 3, 2019
A quirky page turner!
I discovered Keith A Pearson 18 months ago, The ‘86 fix, and have read more of his novels since, always well written, with a quirky storyline that can never be second guessed and doesn’t disappoint. Loved Kenneth, a well rounded story with love, mystery, intrigue all thrown in the mix. Looking forward to the next one.
I discovered Keith A Pearson 18 months ago, The ‘86 fix, and have read more of his novels since, always well written, with a quirky storyline that can never be second guessed and doesn’t disappoint. Loved Kenneth, a well rounded story with love, mystery, intrigue all thrown in the mix. Looking forward to the next one.
January 26, 2020
Wonderfully different.
As an avid sci-fi reader I picked this book as it was in that section. What a wonderful choice that turned out to be!
It has a gripping story with humour and and a realness of life as most of us live it. Yet it also has a lovely message.
My message is just to read it and enjoy!
As an avid sci-fi reader I picked this book as it was in that section. What a wonderful choice that turned out to be!
It has a gripping story with humour and and a realness of life as most of us live it. Yet it also has a lovely message.
My message is just to read it and enjoy!
February 28, 2020
When newly divorced Kelly meets a stranger called Kenneth her life is turned upside down
Her ex-husband turns up making weird demands
She finds out she might have a wind fall coming her way
And she meets a florist called Liam
Do all of these things have something linking them ?
A great read, well-paced with a great story line and really good characters.
Her ex-husband turns up making weird demands
She finds out she might have a wind fall coming her way
And she meets a florist called Liam
Do all of these things have something linking them ?
A great read, well-paced with a great story line and really good characters.
February 17, 2021
Great read , couldn’t put it down ,heartwarming
Bit different to the authors usual time travelling fare , but a great read nonetheless, believable characters you completely believe in , emotional rollercoaster and truly heart warming , with a little bit of danger splashed in
5 Stars
Bit different to the authors usual time travelling fare , but a great read nonetheless, believable characters you completely believe in , emotional rollercoaster and truly heart warming , with a little bit of danger splashed in
5 Stars
Read
July 25, 2021Another great quirky novel
Having read the 'Clement' series, I wondered where this novel would go. Just as readable, a who and why dunnit story with an element of the supernatural. A very enjoyable read, the pace picking up speed over the course of the book, which wouldn't be put down by the last couple of chapters. Looking forward to the next one.
Having read the 'Clement' series, I wondered where this novel would go. Just as readable, a who and why dunnit story with an element of the supernatural. A very enjoyable read, the pace picking up speed over the course of the book, which wouldn't be put down by the last couple of chapters. Looking forward to the next one.
October 21, 2022
Great read, as usual by Mr. Pearson,
Fantastic, page turning, feel good read. Thank you K. Pearson for every book you write. I'm so glad I took a chance and read "who sent Clement?" Followed by the series, I couldn't put it down. Now, Kenneth, A wholly different feel but your writing style and message, oh! So clear!! Thank You!!!
Fantastic, page turning, feel good read. Thank you K. Pearson for every book you write. I'm so glad I took a chance and read "who sent Clement?" Followed by the series, I couldn't put it down. Now, Kenneth, A wholly different feel but your writing style and message, oh! So clear!! Thank You!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews