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Matilda ‘Effie’ Heaton has always felt like she’s swimming against the tide. Everyone around her has life sorted, but Effie’s living with her parents and crying into a wine bottle at night. The only thing she loves is her job at a bookshop, where she can lose herself in other people’s stories.
But then she meets Theo, who knows only too well that life isn’t something to take for granted. Because Theo has a life-changing secret, and as Effie starts to realise that she’s falling in love instead of falling apart, fate steps in and deals her a new hand. And this time, the stakes are high.
But then she meets Theo, who knows only too well that life isn’t something to take for granted. Because Theo has a life-changing secret, and as Effie starts to realise that she’s falling in love instead of falling apart, fate steps in and deals her a new hand. And this time, the stakes are high.
400 pages, Paperback
First published May 14, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
May 8, 2020
You can’t help but worry when you pick up a book and take an instant dislike to the protagonist. Will I finish this book? Can I tolerate such a character? Is this just going to make me angry? Thankfully, for me, this became a hate-to-love relationship that made me ever so grateful for persevering.
So, what made me dislike Effie so much, so quickly? Well, it’s her attitude! She is so negative, so despondent and so miserable, that it took every ounce of my own energy to not meet on her this pessimistic level. Yet, through this mist of misery there is an undeniable crudeness and sarcasm. Effie knows that she is a miserable cow, she knows that she hasn’t made much of her life, and is completely aware that she pushes everyone away from herself. And it was this quality that made me start to really like Effie. She is honest, she is humorously sarcastic and I liked her internal monologue. I could relate to her feelings of self-doubt and as a result, wanted to see her get out of the depressing, cyclical rut that she was stuck in.
Poor Effie! She doesn’t realise how good she has things until they start to crumble away. Her relationship with Theo and the subsequent ‘To Do’ list reminded me very much of Jojo Moyes and 'Me Before You'. This was a feeling that stayed with me throughout the story, even though it wasn’t the same, and I think this is why I fell in love with the plot. Theo comes across as Effie’s hero but his secret sends things crashing down, just as Effie is starting to trust herself. Her downfall is tragic and I could not predict how she would turn herself around.
I loved watching Effie’s journey and was delighted in the eventual parallels that are revealed between her and Theo. It was lovely to see Effie realise she isn’t so worthless and to watch her learn to love herself. Those feelings of low self-esteem made her such a believable character that I don’t think any reader would struggle to understand her feelings.
Although I may have conflicted with Effie to begin with, I fell in love with this story – a bit like Effie’s journey herself. Her struggles and pains felt real and I was rooting for her to succeed. This is a powerful story that isn’t just about love and relationships, but acceptance: acceptance for who you are and believing in yourself. I am excited by this debut novel from Sunderland and can’t wait to see what comes next.
With thanks to Avon books and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
So, what made me dislike Effie so much, so quickly? Well, it’s her attitude! She is so negative, so despondent and so miserable, that it took every ounce of my own energy to not meet on her this pessimistic level. Yet, through this mist of misery there is an undeniable crudeness and sarcasm. Effie knows that she is a miserable cow, she knows that she hasn’t made much of her life, and is completely aware that she pushes everyone away from herself. And it was this quality that made me start to really like Effie. She is honest, she is humorously sarcastic and I liked her internal monologue. I could relate to her feelings of self-doubt and as a result, wanted to see her get out of the depressing, cyclical rut that she was stuck in.
Poor Effie! She doesn’t realise how good she has things until they start to crumble away. Her relationship with Theo and the subsequent ‘To Do’ list reminded me very much of Jojo Moyes and 'Me Before You'. This was a feeling that stayed with me throughout the story, even though it wasn’t the same, and I think this is why I fell in love with the plot. Theo comes across as Effie’s hero but his secret sends things crashing down, just as Effie is starting to trust herself. Her downfall is tragic and I could not predict how she would turn herself around.
I loved watching Effie’s journey and was delighted in the eventual parallels that are revealed between her and Theo. It was lovely to see Effie realise she isn’t so worthless and to watch her learn to love herself. Those feelings of low self-esteem made her such a believable character that I don’t think any reader would struggle to understand her feelings.
Although I may have conflicted with Effie to begin with, I fell in love with this story – a bit like Effie’s journey herself. Her struggles and pains felt real and I was rooting for her to succeed. This is a powerful story that isn’t just about love and relationships, but acceptance: acceptance for who you are and believing in yourself. I am excited by this debut novel from Sunderland and can’t wait to see what comes next.
With thanks to Avon books and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2020
4 Stars - for Very Nearly Normal By: Hannah Sunderland.
Loved the two lead characters Effie and Theo. Two distinctly different people, who’s paths accidentally cross. Or could it be fate? Loved their story, together and apart. Loved the character growth. And there was loads - from beginning to end. I could relate to Effie at many different junctures. She landed deeply in my heart and often tore it apart all because of how much I felt for her and in turn for myself.
At times their relationship is very explosive. And not in the way you’d imagine. And Theo, sweet Theo,.... my heart!
As for a twist? (And this isn’t a spoiler! It’s in the blurb on the back of the book.) I thought I’d guessed what it was numerous times. And I wasn’t right with any of my guesses! I didn’t see it coming at all, which was a huge plus for me. The only downside was that I wished the twist would’ve been a bit bigger part of the story. There’s this gradual lead up and after it happens,.... it was a bit lacking.
Don’t get me wrong, it didn’t take away from my love for the book. It just would’ve made the book so much more if it was discussed, explained, incorporated into the characters lives instead of glossed over. I just wish there’d have been more for the reader to hear and see, would’ve liked more.
Overall, as I said above, I loved it. Was a great story that I wasn’t ready for it to end. Highly recommend.
*Thank you goes out to Readers First and the publisher for providing this free early copy of this title for an honest review*
Loved the two lead characters Effie and Theo. Two distinctly different people, who’s paths accidentally cross. Or could it be fate? Loved their story, together and apart. Loved the character growth. And there was loads - from beginning to end. I could relate to Effie at many different junctures. She landed deeply in my heart and often tore it apart all because of how much I felt for her and in turn for myself.
At times their relationship is very explosive. And not in the way you’d imagine. And Theo, sweet Theo,.... my heart!
As for a twist? (And this isn’t a spoiler! It’s in the blurb on the back of the book.) I thought I’d guessed what it was numerous times. And I wasn’t right with any of my guesses! I didn’t see it coming at all, which was a huge plus for me. The only downside was that I wished the twist would’ve been a bit bigger part of the story. There’s this gradual lead up and after it happens,.... it was a bit lacking.
Don’t get me wrong, it didn’t take away from my love for the book. It just would’ve made the book so much more if it was discussed, explained, incorporated into the characters lives instead of glossed over. I just wish there’d have been more for the reader to hear and see, would’ve liked more.
Overall, as I said above, I loved it. Was a great story that I wasn’t ready for it to end. Highly recommend.
*Thank you goes out to Readers First and the publisher for providing this free early copy of this title for an honest review*
April 22, 2020
I had high hopes for Very Nearly Normal.
I'm going to reread this book again and hopefully my view will change. But with reading this book once I feel that I need to be truthful. I didn't get into Very Nearly Normal, which is very unlike me as a lover of reading allsorts of fiction books. I can normally get into any type of book. But something didn't gel with me throughout reading this particular story, I can't explain why as I'm not sure why I couldn't relate to this story. This is why I feel it's important for me to reread this book once more at some stage.
To be perfectly honest I didn't really like the front cover of this book, what made me want to read the book was for the fact I loved the blurb of the story, that I read on Goodreads Amazon,. I was sent a proof copy by the publisher. which I would like to thank the publisher very much for sending me a copy for an honest review. My proof copy was a gorgeous bright pink, my favourite colour, but it had very little discription of what the book was about. I do hope that this blurb from my proof copy will help other readers.
The blurb read Imperfect apart. Perfect together. But one of them has a life-changing secret. A love story to capture your heart. A twist to break it.
The one thing I am very happy about is that lots of readers have enjoyed Very Nearly Normal, on that basis I totally recommend reading Very Nearly Normal
January 27, 2020
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
“Very Nearly Normal”, by Hannah Sunderland (Avon), features two broken people, gives a sometimes hard to read account of alcoholism and provides a beautiful depiction of pain and longing that come when a love relationship ends.
Theo, our wounded hero, is just fine, handsome, as mysterious as his wound (which is very original and painful, and totally surprised me). Effie, the heroine is not very likeable – but that even makes her interesting - but as the story progresses becomes more relatable. Having her pinning for Theo later is a wonderful process to read.
There are a lot of interesting secondary characters and relationships that make the story enjoyable. Perhaps the story dragged a little in some parts or I would have liked to have seen more of Theo.
The recovery from alcoholism was fictionally convincing but in felt a bit unlikely without specialized help in the real world.
The longing, the pain of heartbreak was really well written. I would say the same about the drinking problem, but this dimension was hard to read.
“Very Nearly Normal”, by Hannah Sunderland (Avon), features two broken people, gives a sometimes hard to read account of alcoholism and provides a beautiful depiction of pain and longing that come when a love relationship ends.
Theo, our wounded hero, is just fine, handsome, as mysterious as his wound (which is very original and painful, and totally surprised me). Effie, the heroine is not very likeable – but that even makes her interesting - but as the story progresses becomes more relatable. Having her pinning for Theo later is a wonderful process to read.
There are a lot of interesting secondary characters and relationships that make the story enjoyable. Perhaps the story dragged a little in some parts or I would have liked to have seen more of Theo.
The recovery from alcoholism was fictionally convincing but in felt a bit unlikely without specialized help in the real world.
The longing, the pain of heartbreak was really well written. I would say the same about the drinking problem, but this dimension was hard to read.
May 21, 2020
Oh wow I loved this book, I was unsure when I started it as I thought the main character Effie was so miserable and had a “black cloud” over her head constantly. I wondered if this book was going to depress me but, this was not so. Once I got into it I loved it, it was funny and sad at times but on the whole a very good read. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 24, 2020
This one was an unexpected treasure. At first I absolutely did not like our heroine, Effie. Her constant woe is me, my life sucks, I suck, and it's not my fault it's just who I am was annoying. But I quickly warmed up to her and even saw a lot of myself in her. And let's talk about Theo. Ohmigosh, Theo is a dream. I adored him and how he brought out the best in Effie even when she fought him at every turn. I loved their bantering and he was just pure perfection. Then, things took an unexpected turn and I was devastated. My heart stopped beating, but I knew there had to be some explanation and I hung around nursing my broken heart waiting for it and dreading it in the same breath. If you need a really touching love story in which our heroine grows and learns to become the best version of herself, grab a bottle of wine, some tissues, and dive in.
March 20, 2021
"In a world full of lobsters, be a seahorse"
I came up with this quote on my own, you know. Although I gathered the idea through this book, not gonna lie. The thing is, the author sure had a way with the words, but she lacked in the storytelling and plot-making department.
I didn’t like the main character, Effie. Her whole life is the sum of failures. Whereas everyone around her seems to have their life figured out. All my condolences to this poor girl. However, she is full of negativity and self-pity, which I didn’t enjoy reading about.
On the other hand, there is this guy Theo, who is a mystery box till the very end of the story. He tries to be wise for Effie but he himself is full of idiocy. Moreover, the couple lacked chemistry.
I would’ve loved it if the author focused more on Effie’s career; her being a successful writer and the process through which she reaches that point.
I came up with this quote on my own, you know. Although I gathered the idea through this book, not gonna lie. The thing is, the author sure had a way with the words, but she lacked in the storytelling and plot-making department.
I didn’t like the main character, Effie. Her whole life is the sum of failures. Whereas everyone around her seems to have their life figured out. All my condolences to this poor girl. However, she is full of negativity and self-pity, which I didn’t enjoy reading about.
On the other hand, there is this guy Theo, who is a mystery box till the very end of the story. He tries to be wise for Effie but he himself is full of idiocy. Moreover, the couple lacked chemistry.
I would’ve loved it if the author focused more on Effie’s career; her being a successful writer and the process through which she reaches that point.
July 30, 2020
Not only did I fall in love with the book, I fell in love with Effie and Theo. This book is now my favourite of 2020.
Very well written, easy to read and so emotionally gripping you will remember it for years to come.
I laughed, I cried and I felt anger too. I already miss the characters.
Very well written, easy to read and so emotionally gripping you will remember it for years to come.
I laughed, I cried and I felt anger too. I already miss the characters.
May 18, 2020
I liked Very Nearly Normal. It had a unique feel to it. The storyline felt a bit different from anything else I've read and kept my interest. The main character, Effie, is struggling at "adulting." She hasn't quite found her way in life. At least she doesn't think she has. The sad thing is that she may just be too busy comparing herself to others and not allowing herself time to appreciate what she has achieved because it doesn't match up to what she "perceives" others are accomplishing. Regardless, Effie isn't happy with her life. Because of this, one of Effie's best friends is wine. At least until she meets Theo. He is able to bring her out of her shell and help her find a craving for life that she hasn't experiences in a long while. Of course, Effie is waiting for things to fail. She's sure it's too good to be true. What would someone like Theo see in her?
Very Nearly Normal was heartwarming and heartbreaking all rolled together. It was wonderful to see the evolution of Effie and Theo's relationship. It was even more rewarding to see how Effie grows, personally.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Very Nearly Normal was heartwarming and heartbreaking all rolled together. It was wonderful to see the evolution of Effie and Theo's relationship. It was even more rewarding to see how Effie grows, personally.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 20, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. It made me laugh out loud but also tugged at my heartstrings. I loved Effie's character, she was so likeable and I could relate to her, and i liked how she had grown and found herself as a person. It really made me think about myself and what goals I wanted to achieve in life.
Very nearly normal is romantic, funny, and inspiring and makes you realise that things aren't always as they seem in other people's lives. You just have to do what makes you happy and enjoy and make the most of what you have.
I would highly recommend this book. I would definitely read a book by this author again.
Thank you to reader's first, avon and Hannah Sunderland for an ARC of this book.
Very nearly normal is romantic, funny, and inspiring and makes you realise that things aren't always as they seem in other people's lives. You just have to do what makes you happy and enjoy and make the most of what you have.
I would highly recommend this book. I would definitely read a book by this author again.
Thank you to reader's first, avon and Hannah Sunderland for an ARC of this book.
January 6, 2020
I adored this book. Effie is a likeable, flawed protagonist for whom life hasn't worked out the way she hoped it would. She's also spiky - until she meets Theo, when slowly everything starts to change. But Theo has a secret and he doesn't want Effie to know about it.
There is so much humour and I laughed out loud, but this book is full of heart, too. Moving, compelling, entertaining, life-affirming, it's truly a book to lose yourself in.
There is so much humour and I laughed out loud, but this book is full of heart, too. Moving, compelling, entertaining, life-affirming, it's truly a book to lose yourself in.
May 3, 2020
I have to say that I wasn't keen on this book when I first started reading it. Effie, the main character, was a pain in the backside. Very self-absorbed and immature and I felt that the difficulties in her life resulted from her behaviour. However, as the book progressed and her relationship with Theo grew, she became more likeable and by the end I really felt that we could be friends.
The main story is the romance (or not) of Effie and Theo, but there were other side plots regarding other characters , some happy stories and some less so. All believable and valuable editions to the book. Some not completely sewn up but that is the way life works, I suppose. I would like to know more about Effie's parents, who seem to have an unusual relationship (though the reader only sees it through Effie"s eyes) and about Kate .
I will definitely look out for more from this authoress, A good read which leaves you with plenty to think about.
Thankyou to Net Galley & Avon books for the ARC in exchange for an unbiased review & well done Hannah Sutherland for an excellent first novel
The main story is the romance (or not) of Effie and Theo, but there were other side plots regarding other characters , some happy stories and some less so. All believable and valuable editions to the book. Some not completely sewn up but that is the way life works, I suppose. I would like to know more about Effie's parents, who seem to have an unusual relationship (though the reader only sees it through Effie"s eyes) and about Kate .
I will definitely look out for more from this authoress, A good read which leaves you with plenty to think about.
Thankyou to Net Galley & Avon books for the ARC in exchange for an unbiased review & well done Hannah Sutherland for an excellent first novel
June 14, 2020
Great read
Literally made me laugh and cry I can really identify with Effie and her search for happiness a lovely read completely that I bought on a whim and couldn’t put down. Definitely recommend
Literally made me laugh and cry I can really identify with Effie and her search for happiness a lovely read completely that I bought on a whim and couldn’t put down. Definitely recommend
March 26, 2020
Wow what a read!!!
I think alot of people can relate to Effie, in one way or another. Some parts of this broke me, had a good cry for her.
One that was hard to put down thats for sure. It was brilliantly written, really draws you in.
Not really been into these kind of books until recently.
Effie very much down on her luck. Seemed like she could never catch a break. And seeing everyone around her happy and moving on with their lifes. Meanwhile she was still living with her parents, single, and liked to drink a bit too much. Loved seeing how it all turned around for her. Even if she had to endure some really hard times.
Well deserved 5 stars. I'd say it's a must read. Hope everyone else enjoys it as much as I did!
I think alot of people can relate to Effie, in one way or another. Some parts of this broke me, had a good cry for her.
One that was hard to put down thats for sure. It was brilliantly written, really draws you in.
Not really been into these kind of books until recently.
Effie very much down on her luck. Seemed like she could never catch a break. And seeing everyone around her happy and moving on with their lifes. Meanwhile she was still living with her parents, single, and liked to drink a bit too much. Loved seeing how it all turned around for her. Even if she had to endure some really hard times.
Well deserved 5 stars. I'd say it's a must read. Hope everyone else enjoys it as much as I did!
November 22, 2020
This was terrible. Really, truly, terrible.
The main character, Effie, is full of negativity and self-pity for not really any good reason, right from the very first sentence. And she continues to be this pathetic character for all of the book. I mean, she even complains about her name, "Matilda Effie Heaton'; she hates it because when abbreviated, it spells "meh" and she thinks that pretty much sums up her poor excuse of a life. Give me a break! This character genuinely believes she has a shit, tough life. She's incredibly judgmental, superficial, and just plain miserable about everything and everyone. I could not stand her, living inside her head was a nightmare. If you're going to produce such a hateful character, how on earth are we meant to believe that some random guy takes a liking to her instantly? It's not plausible. No one should be anywhere near Effie until she sorts her shit out, because she is insufferable! I think the author made her this way on purpose so that we could see some sort of personal growth along the way, but to be honest there was no hope for that, I hated this character!
I also could not stand the writing style, it was incredibly dumbed-down, lacked any sort of technique and flow. The dialogue was cringe, the characters just didn't speak like normal people some of the time, and the humour was really lame. Very juvenile writing, I'm surprised this managed to get published because this book more belongs on Wattpad or just not seen at all.
The high ratings? Boggles the mind. People have said this book is "delightfully romantic", "compelling and quirky" and an "unconventional romance". Please do not be fooled, this book is none of those things!
I guess I'm in the minority here, but I would not recommend this book or this author and I won't be reading anything else by Hannah Sunderland.
The main character, Effie, is full of negativity and self-pity for not really any good reason, right from the very first sentence. And she continues to be this pathetic character for all of the book. I mean, she even complains about her name, "Matilda Effie Heaton'; she hates it because when abbreviated, it spells "meh" and she thinks that pretty much sums up her poor excuse of a life. Give me a break! This character genuinely believes she has a shit, tough life. She's incredibly judgmental, superficial, and just plain miserable about everything and everyone. I could not stand her, living inside her head was a nightmare. If you're going to produce such a hateful character, how on earth are we meant to believe that some random guy takes a liking to her instantly? It's not plausible. No one should be anywhere near Effie until she sorts her shit out, because she is insufferable! I think the author made her this way on purpose so that we could see some sort of personal growth along the way, but to be honest there was no hope for that, I hated this character!
I also could not stand the writing style, it was incredibly dumbed-down, lacked any sort of technique and flow. The dialogue was cringe, the characters just didn't speak like normal people some of the time, and the humour was really lame. Very juvenile writing, I'm surprised this managed to get published because this book more belongs on Wattpad or just not seen at all.
The high ratings? Boggles the mind. People have said this book is "delightfully romantic", "compelling and quirky" and an "unconventional romance". Please do not be fooled, this book is none of those things!
I guess I'm in the minority here, but I would not recommend this book or this author and I won't be reading anything else by Hannah Sunderland.
May 15, 2020
Effie, a 28-year-old, with no dreams to speak of, living with her parents and drowning her miseries in wine meets Theo, an optimistic and persistent man who encourages Effie to stop throwing herself pity-parties and make some serious amends to her otherwise solitary, depressing life style. But Theo's optimism comes from a position of grief and loss that has taken a toll on him, his only ray of sunshine being our beloved, Effie.
I never realized I would end up liking Effie. She is cranky and complains non-stop. She uses all her resistance to push Theo away. This story isn't the most original, but there is something about their personalities that makes you want to read on. Countless times I have wished for a Theo of my own to save me from certain miseries and Effie's transformation from a crybaby to a woman in control of her life is inspirational .
Effie and Theo complement each other as their personalities are extremely opposite. Through a whirlwind of making each other's lives better, they give you a reason to sob through a lot of their story, feeling their emotions as yours. Sunderland's writing is engaging and has a way to such you right into the plot. The other characters around Effie such as Arthur, Toby and Joy are a sight to behold , making them all make a space in our minds with their distinct personalities.
Effie and Theo give us a story to remember, and a message along with it and that it is important to accept people with all their flaws and be patient because you never know what someone is going through. Also, move you ass and get shit done, for the love of God.
I never realized I would end up liking Effie. She is cranky and complains non-stop. She uses all her resistance to push Theo away. This story isn't the most original, but there is something about their personalities that makes you want to read on. Countless times I have wished for a Theo of my own to save me from certain miseries and Effie's transformation from a crybaby to a woman in control of her life is inspirational .
Effie and Theo complement each other as their personalities are extremely opposite. Through a whirlwind of making each other's lives better, they give you a reason to sob through a lot of their story, feeling their emotions as yours. Sunderland's writing is engaging and has a way to such you right into the plot. The other characters around Effie such as Arthur, Toby and Joy are a sight to behold , making them all make a space in our minds with their distinct personalities.
Effie and Theo give us a story to remember, and a message along with it and that it is important to accept people with all their flaws and be patient because you never know what someone is going through. Also, move you ass and get shit done, for the love of God.
May 18, 2020
Where to start with Very Nearly Normal? Like so many books published in the past couple of years the blurb describes it as 'for fans of Gail Honeyman' and, actually, I think the protagognist of this book, Effie, comes close at times to the seminal (for this genre) Eleanor Oliphant but my, oh my ,is Effie unlikeable at the start of this book!
The description of this book grabbed me right from the off - quirky heroine, bookshop setting, a non-traditional love story. It bumped right up my 'to read' list as, after purchasing it for my Kindle, i kept thinking about it. I very nearly gave up around 15% of the way through as I really didn't understand how I was going to warm to this obnoxious 'heroine', but warm I did. I thawed towards Effie as she got to know Theo and became thoroughly invested in her journey by the end of the book. I did see where the story was going and, despite the personalities it's not that untypical a romance story in the end, but it is different, and it does show how people can change their own path once they decide to take action. I think this one will stay with me for a while.
The description of this book grabbed me right from the off - quirky heroine, bookshop setting, a non-traditional love story. It bumped right up my 'to read' list as, after purchasing it for my Kindle, i kept thinking about it. I very nearly gave up around 15% of the way through as I really didn't understand how I was going to warm to this obnoxious 'heroine', but warm I did. I thawed towards Effie as she got to know Theo and became thoroughly invested in her journey by the end of the book. I did see where the story was going and, despite the personalities it's not that untypical a romance story in the end, but it is different, and it does show how people can change their own path once they decide to take action. I think this one will stay with me for a while.
May 22, 2020
I felt a real connection with Effie who considers herself one of life’s losers. Not that I feel that I am a loser but I do agree that some people sail through life while for others it’s a hard slog through what feels like quicksand.
Her life is a bit of a shambles and after a disastrous Tinder date with Daz she meets Theo and life changes. Theo sees right through her facade to her very core and foists himself into her life much to Effie’s chagrin.
I have to say Effie’s humour in this book was very similar to mine. Snarky, sarcastic and dry and unless you get it, it can come across as rude. But it fit her character like a glove and just warmed me to her even more. And the positively effervescent Theo was more than a match, throwing witty remarks back at her like they were playing a game of humour tennis. But with these two it’s like mixing rain and sunshine and getting a beautiful rainbow.
And I haven’t even got to the other characters, her argumentative mother who she is constantly battling, her eBay obsessed father shut away in his room, Arthur and Toby and even the strange cat is full of personality.
Then there is the story itself which is heartbreakingly glorious. This is for anyone who has ever felt different, not quite good enough or that they don’t matter. You do matter, this is about how we all make our mark in the world even though we feel like we are failures. So if like me you like to root for the underdog, read this and root for Effie. Follow her struggles and be inspired.
Her life is a bit of a shambles and after a disastrous Tinder date with Daz she meets Theo and life changes. Theo sees right through her facade to her very core and foists himself into her life much to Effie’s chagrin.
I have to say Effie’s humour in this book was very similar to mine. Snarky, sarcastic and dry and unless you get it, it can come across as rude. But it fit her character like a glove and just warmed me to her even more. And the positively effervescent Theo was more than a match, throwing witty remarks back at her like they were playing a game of humour tennis. But with these two it’s like mixing rain and sunshine and getting a beautiful rainbow.
And I haven’t even got to the other characters, her argumentative mother who she is constantly battling, her eBay obsessed father shut away in his room, Arthur and Toby and even the strange cat is full of personality.
Then there is the story itself which is heartbreakingly glorious. This is for anyone who has ever felt different, not quite good enough or that they don’t matter. You do matter, this is about how we all make our mark in the world even though we feel like we are failures. So if like me you like to root for the underdog, read this and root for Effie. Follow her struggles and be inspired.
August 28, 2025
oh my God, how do I even begin. I loved this book a lot, but the emotional rollercoaster it put me through was CRUEL.
As many other readers, I too didn't like Effie at first. She was way too relatable to me than I would've liked, but she was also really different in some ways, so that balanced it out. She's a well written character, but girlie really needs to chill sometimes lol
then there's Theo- oh, how much I love this man. He is so selfless and sweet, it made my heart grow three sizes when he and Effie bonded so well.
There was a moment towards the end of the book, where I thought my heart stopped. I was so scared for the outcome, and the relief that I felt when I realized I completely guessed wrong was, well, relieving.
I really loved this book and I will read it again!
As many other readers, I too didn't like Effie at first. She was way too relatable to me than I would've liked, but she was also really different in some ways, so that balanced it out. She's a well written character, but girlie really needs to chill sometimes lol
then there's Theo- oh, how much I love this man. He is so selfless and sweet, it made my heart grow three sizes when he and Effie bonded so well.
There was a moment towards the end of the book, where I thought my heart stopped. I was so scared for the outcome, and the relief that I felt when I realized I completely guessed wrong was, well, relieving.
I really loved this book and I will read it again!
July 6, 2020
Never have I ever felt so emotion for a book, by far the best book I have read in years!! Eiffe a young woman who wasnt popular at school or anyone's number one choice feels she has been given the wrong card in life until one day a date that starts as a distarer turns into something more. I really felt for every character in this book, I've cried, laughed throughout this book. Wonderfully written!! A true gem of a read. 10 stars if that was possible.
April 18, 2021
This book is amazing. One of my favourites. I absolutely loved it from start to finish. A must read.
May 13, 2021
What can I say about this book! When it first popped up on my Facebook page I nearly a scrolled past it but something made me open the post and read the synopsis. I’m so glad I did. It’s a beautiful story, it’s made me laugh, it’s made me read till the wee small hours desperate to devour as much as I can, it’s made me cry (more than once) I can’t recommend this highly enough and I look forward to reading more of Hannah Sunderland 😊
May 24, 2020
This was such an easy story to lose myself in when I needed to distract myself from all the recent stress of 2020. Effie and Theo's story definitely provided me with a few laughs as I read along.
What I loved about this book:
1. The was such a cute romance that really packed an emotional punch. Definitely have tissues close by while reading this one.
2. Effie was an unhappy person who is completely honest it. At first you may find her a bit off putting, but she definitely grows on you. I found her sarcasm witty and I really enjoyed seeing her character grow and realise her self worth.
3. I like how this book touched on alcoholism and how using it as an escape can lead to real problems.
4. This book had a unique plot that easily keeps the reader engaged. I love seeing both Effie and Theo evolve and grow together.
This book was both heartwarming, humorous, and heartbreaking at the same time, but overall enjoyable. I definitely recommend you give this one a read.
What I loved about this book:
1. The was such a cute romance that really packed an emotional punch. Definitely have tissues close by while reading this one.
2. Effie was an unhappy person who is completely honest it. At first you may find her a bit off putting, but she definitely grows on you. I found her sarcasm witty and I really enjoyed seeing her character grow and realise her self worth.
3. I like how this book touched on alcoholism and how using it as an escape can lead to real problems.
4. This book had a unique plot that easily keeps the reader engaged. I love seeing both Effie and Theo evolve and grow together.
This book was both heartwarming, humorous, and heartbreaking at the same time, but overall enjoyable. I definitely recommend you give this one a read.
March 26, 2020
I’m in a bit of a reading slump at the moment and this book was exactly what I needed to read in these uncertain times.
I related so much to the main character Effie, her poor self esteem and belief that she didn’t fit in would resound with many. Who hasn’t looked at someone else’s life with envy when the reality may be something completely different!,
Effie's life is not working out well, she struggles to hold herself together until Theo comes along and she begins to feel appreciated and loved. But Theo is keeping a secret and it’s one he doesn’t want to share with Ellie.
I loved this amazing debut novel. The characters are fantastic and the mix of humour and heartbreak was perfect. Theo’s secret is central to the story and it had me guessing right to the end.
This book covers so many different topics - forgiveness, helping others, excepting yourself, love, letting go,mental health and self discovery are among them. How can you define normal? Being very near normal in my opinion is what everyone should aim for
I would recommend this feel good book and look forward to the authors next one
I related so much to the main character Effie, her poor self esteem and belief that she didn’t fit in would resound with many. Who hasn’t looked at someone else’s life with envy when the reality may be something completely different!,
Effie's life is not working out well, she struggles to hold herself together until Theo comes along and she begins to feel appreciated and loved. But Theo is keeping a secret and it’s one he doesn’t want to share with Ellie.
I loved this amazing debut novel. The characters are fantastic and the mix of humour and heartbreak was perfect. Theo’s secret is central to the story and it had me guessing right to the end.
This book covers so many different topics - forgiveness, helping others, excepting yourself, love, letting go,mental health and self discovery are among them. How can you define normal? Being very near normal in my opinion is what everyone should aim for
I would recommend this feel good book and look forward to the authors next one
November 6, 2021
Spočiatku mi pripadala táto kniha ako óda na ufňukanosť, depresiu a závisť, začiatok bol pre mňa ťažký, pretože keby som bola na mieste Effie (inak pracuje v kníhkupectve, chcela by byť spisovateľkou, má ryšavé vlasy a je pehavá - to by mohla byť sympatická knižná postava, nie?), tiež by som sa možno správala podobne, ale nepáčilo by sa mi to a bola by som rozladená sama zo seba, navyše by som pila menej vína a jedla viac koláčov 🙈. Nemusela by som sa spiť do kómy, aby som dokázala horekovať nad tým, že sa cítim osamelo a neúspešne.
Pri čítaní ma udržal autorkin chytľavý a vtipný a citlivý štýl písania. Som rada, lebo kniha fakt stála za to.
Effie má viacero problémov, ktoré je potrebné vyriešiť.
Problém číslo jeden: úspešná kamarátka, ktorá sa k nej správa fakt zle a vyvyšuje sa nad ňu #richBitch
Problém číslo dva: býva u rodičov #mamaHotel
Problém číslo tri: napísala román, ktorý všetci odmietli a leží pod posteľou, kde sa sám od seba neupraví a ani nevydá #noMotivation
Problém číslo štyri: neskutočne nízke sebavedomie a takmer nulová sebaláska #noSelflove
Problém číslo päť: muži... #noComment😁
Na scénu vstupuje Theo (ako spevák mojej obľúbenej kapely Hurts), ktorý sa v detstve túžil stať Davidom Bowiem - ja mám dosť, roztápam sa... doriti, milujem ho! Dosť o mne 😁😂
Effie oslovil náhodne po jej nevydarenom rande. Nechce veriť, že by sa o ňu mohol chlap ako on zaujímať a potom sa dejú veci... Jazda ako na kolotoči, zloží ho jedinou ranou, ogrcá mu auto a takmer si kvôli nemu zlomí zápästie... Potom sek.
Viem, že som toho až tak veľa zmysluplného o deji nenapísala, no kniha stojí fakt zato.
Až mám chuť spísať si zoznam vecí, ktoré chcem ešte v živote dosiahnuť a urobiť a postupne ich vyškrtávať ako Effie😍
Pri čítaní ma udržal autorkin chytľavý a vtipný a citlivý štýl písania. Som rada, lebo kniha fakt stála za to.
Effie má viacero problémov, ktoré je potrebné vyriešiť.
Problém číslo jeden: úspešná kamarátka, ktorá sa k nej správa fakt zle a vyvyšuje sa nad ňu #richBitch
Problém číslo dva: býva u rodičov #mamaHotel
Problém číslo tri: napísala román, ktorý všetci odmietli a leží pod posteľou, kde sa sám od seba neupraví a ani nevydá #noMotivation
Problém číslo štyri: neskutočne nízke sebavedomie a takmer nulová sebaláska #noSelflove
Problém číslo päť: muži... #noComment😁
Na scénu vstupuje Theo (ako spevák mojej obľúbenej kapely Hurts), ktorý sa v detstve túžil stať Davidom Bowiem - ja mám dosť, roztápam sa... doriti, milujem ho! Dosť o mne 😁😂
Effie oslovil náhodne po jej nevydarenom rande. Nechce veriť, že by sa o ňu mohol chlap ako on zaujímať a potom sa dejú veci... Jazda ako na kolotoči, zloží ho jedinou ranou, ogrcá mu auto a takmer si kvôli nemu zlomí zápästie... Potom sek.
Viem, že som toho až tak veľa zmysluplného o deji nenapísala, no kniha stojí fakt zato.
Až mám chuť spísať si zoznam vecí, ktoré chcem ešte v živote dosiahnuť a urobiť a postupne ich vyškrtávať ako Effie😍
February 10, 2020
Full review on my blog
I’ve related to Effie from the very beginning; how much she hated herself, thinking of herself as a failure and never did anything in life, as that’s how I felt about myself. (still does a bit)
The novel made me go through a range of emotions; some parts were funny, in some cases it broke my heart, and others made me feel all lovey dovey.
Effie had grown so much within this novel- she had the push she needed to finally be who she wanted to be, and became happy. When I thought this was over for the romance and it was going to be solely on this growth, I was happily mistaken and the story twisted yet again! But this time, I’m so glad it did, as it ended so beautifully 💕 A good view at what love truly is and how far you’d go for it; from both parts, as it does take a lot to do what they both did.
I’ve related to Effie from the very beginning; how much she hated herself, thinking of herself as a failure and never did anything in life, as that’s how I felt about myself. (still does a bit)
The novel made me go through a range of emotions; some parts were funny, in some cases it broke my heart, and others made me feel all lovey dovey.
Effie had grown so much within this novel- she had the push she needed to finally be who she wanted to be, and became happy. When I thought this was over for the romance and it was going to be solely on this growth, I was happily mistaken and the story twisted yet again! But this time, I’m so glad it did, as it ended so beautifully 💕 A good view at what love truly is and how far you’d go for it; from both parts, as it does take a lot to do what they both did.
March 28, 2020
I enjoyed this book a lot and at times I could really relate to the main character Effie. I enjoyed following her growth throughout the book although I must say that her life isn't nearly as bad as she thinks. Yes, she's 28 years old and still lives with her parents and is single and works in a bookshop. Well, I didn't move out until I was about 24 only to be back at 26 and not leave again until I was 30. Then came back to live at my parents again at 31. The other difference is that I don't have random men ask me out on dates and stuff like that.
I get that Effie was in a bad place and I have been in a bad place and still regurarly visit that bad place unfortunately, I just don't find it believable that she seems to have her life completely in order after only a year, including her mindset. In my experience it takes a lot longer than that to change that so significantly.
I was so angry at Theo when he just told her to go. How dare he make that decision for her? I'm glad that was one of Effie's arguments in the end as well. People tend to do that in life. Thinking that they know better in these situations.
All in all. I enjoyed it but it wasn't perfect.
I get that Effie was in a bad place and I have been in a bad place and still regurarly visit that bad place unfortunately, I just don't find it believable that she seems to have her life completely in order after only a year, including her mindset. In my experience it takes a lot longer than that to change that so significantly.
I was so angry at Theo when he just told her to go. How dare he make that decision for her? I'm glad that was one of Effie's arguments in the end as well. People tend to do that in life. Thinking that they know better in these situations.
All in all. I enjoyed it but it wasn't perfect.
March 30, 2020
I loved this book!! Effie is the main character and I felt great sympathy to her. She feels like her life is going nowhere, she has few friends, no career to speak of and lives at home with her parents. She has a last ditch attempt with an Internet date with the worlds worst man and is at rock bottom and to make matters worse someone witnesses her humiliation. Enter Theo! Theo brings out the best in Effie and slowly she sees herself in a different light.
There is some great humour in the book which had me laughing to myself. It engrossed me and I read it in 2 days. There are a some situations that I think most people can relate to and that was one of the things I enjoyed in the book.
After I had read this I felt warm and happy and completely took my mind off the current world situation!
There is some great humour in the book which had me laughing to myself. It engrossed me and I read it in 2 days. There are a some situations that I think most people can relate to and that was one of the things I enjoyed in the book.
After I had read this I felt warm and happy and completely took my mind off the current world situation!
May 16, 2020
I received an ARC of this book via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Effie is not this years IT gir, nor is she the IT girl of any earlier or future year and she has spent each of those years bemoaning her lot in life in comparison to that of her friends. Obviously such comparisons have always been on the debit side of her accounting column. We open as she is preparing herself for a last chance in the relationship department and a date arranged via an online site. When it goes disastrously as everything she touches is fated to go a twist in the tale brings a new potential love into her life.
Of course nothing is straightforward and much of it is not helped by Effie's relationship with her other love of alcohol. Yet we do see Effie and Theo's relationship develop through some rater cute goal chasing only for it all to come crashing down as the tale takes a darker twist. Pulling herself proverbial socks up Effie manages to create a less awful place in life only for the unfinished past to come haunting.
This is a reasonably well written novel which follows the propensity of romance novels to have an on again / off again relationship. My main problem with it was I couldn't really like the central character of Effie. I generally just wanted to shake her or her slap her face. I found that i was way past 50% through the book before i had any real desire to see what the end might bring.
Romance is not my first love and I am sure many will enjoy it. For me it just failed to light a spark and I have found it difficult to rate for these reasons. I probably would have given it a 2.5 if that option had been open as it is better than just OK so I have decided on 3 stars in the end
Of course nothing is straightforward and much of it is not helped by Effie's relationship with her other love of alcohol. Yet we do see Effie and Theo's relationship develop through some rater cute goal chasing only for it all to come crashing down as the tale takes a darker twist. Pulling herself proverbial socks up Effie manages to create a less awful place in life only for the unfinished past to come haunting.
This is a reasonably well written novel which follows the propensity of romance novels to have an on again / off again relationship. My main problem with it was I couldn't really like the central character of Effie. I generally just wanted to shake her or her slap her face. I found that i was way past 50% through the book before i had any real desire to see what the end might bring.
Romance is not my first love and I am sure many will enjoy it. For me it just failed to light a spark and I have found it difficult to rate for these reasons. I probably would have given it a 2.5 if that option had been open as it is better than just OK so I have decided on 3 stars in the end
March 21, 2020
Effie thinks she fails at everything in her life that she touches and is living in a world so far removed from the perfection she sees on her friends’ social media accounts. The only good thing in her life is her job at a bookshop until one day, she meets Theo. As they spend more and more time together Theo’s kindness and warmth slowly starts to leave a mark on Effie. But little does she know, there is a life-changing secret waiting around the corner threatening to change her new world. A world in which for once, instead of falling apart, she is slowly starting to fall in love...
I have loved every moment of this incredible debut and am going to really miss these wonderful characters. From the outset I adored Effie, whose perspective this story is told from and found myself really laughing at the things she said and did; a feeling that continued throughout the story. I really felt like I was there beside her on her journey of self discovery. Theo also completely stole my heart and the list he compiles for Effie is just so thoughtful! Feeling such love for Effie and Theo meant I really felt each of their emotions and at times I felt my heart ache. It’s such an incredible feeling when an author can make you feel such a strong affinity to their characters in this way.
The way the secret plays a crucial role in the story is really clever too and I was sad to be right about the actions of a particular person from the past. Their choice really impacts the present day and the direction Effie and Theo’s lives take. It makes this story all the more powerful and emotional though! I also really enjoyed seeing Effie grow and evolve; it brought the biggest smile to my face. I loved the ending too; a perfect end to a beautiful story.
I would recommend this book to everyone and cannot wait to see what Hannah writes next!
I have loved every moment of this incredible debut and am going to really miss these wonderful characters. From the outset I adored Effie, whose perspective this story is told from and found myself really laughing at the things she said and did; a feeling that continued throughout the story. I really felt like I was there beside her on her journey of self discovery. Theo also completely stole my heart and the list he compiles for Effie is just so thoughtful! Feeling such love for Effie and Theo meant I really felt each of their emotions and at times I felt my heart ache. It’s such an incredible feeling when an author can make you feel such a strong affinity to their characters in this way.
The way the secret plays a crucial role in the story is really clever too and I was sad to be right about the actions of a particular person from the past. Their choice really impacts the present day and the direction Effie and Theo’s lives take. It makes this story all the more powerful and emotional though! I also really enjoyed seeing Effie grow and evolve; it brought the biggest smile to my face. I loved the ending too; a perfect end to a beautiful story.
I would recommend this book to everyone and cannot wait to see what Hannah writes next!
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