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Amazing Grace

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She’s taking her life back , one step at a time…

Grace thought she had it all. Living in the beautiful village of Little Ollington, along with head teacher husband Mark and gorgeous son, Archie, she devoted herself to being the perfect mum and the perfect wife, her little family giving her everything she ever wanted. 

Until that fateful day when she walked in on Mark kissing his secretary - and her perfect life fell apart.

Now she's a single mum to Archie, trying to find her way in life and keep things together for his sake. Saturday nights consist of a Chinese takeaway eaten in front of the TV clad in greying pyjamas, and she can’t remember the last time she had a kiss from anyone aside from her dog, Becks… 

Grace’s life needs a shake up – fast. So when gorgeous gardener Vinnie turns up on her doorstep, his twinkling eyes suggesting that he might be interested in more than just her conifers, she might just have found the answer to her prayers. But as Grace falls deeper for Vinnie, ten-year-old Archie fears that his mum finding love means she’ll never reconcile with the dad he loves. 

So when ex-husband Mark begs her for another chance, telling her he’s changed from the man that broke her heart, Grace finds herself with an impossible dilemma. Should she take back Mark and reunite the family that Archie loves? Or risk it all for a new chance of happiness? 

267 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 10, 2019

82 people are currently reading
389 people want to read

About the author

Kim Nash

38 books673 followers
Kim Nash is the bestselling author of uplifting, heartwarming, romantic, feel-good fiction. She is published by Boldwood Books and has wanted to write books since she was a little girl. Her other dream, is to live in a home that has a view of a golden sandy beach and the sea sparkling in the sunlight. Until that dream comes true, she’ll continue to write second chance romances about women who live or move to the seaside on her behalf.

The Cornish Cottage by the Sea, the first in a new series, is published on 10th May and is available to pre-order.

One of her greatest writing achievements is to be nominated for the The Kindle Storyteller Award in 2020 and she was delighted when Claudia Winkleman had read her book and said it was 'Totally warm and absolutely lovely.'

She lives in Staffordshire with her son Ollie and English Setter rescue dog Roni, is Author Community Director for publisher Bookouture (a division of Hachette UK) and as an avid reader started her career in the publishing industry as a book blogger.

When she's not working or writing, Kim can be found walking her dog at Cannock Chase, reading and binge-watching TV. She's also quite partial to a spa day, lemon drizzle cake and a gin and tonic (not all at the same time!)

Kim also runs a book club in Staffordshire and organises local and national reader/author events.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
Profile Image for Dash fan .
1,529 reviews716 followers
April 17, 2019
5☆ Amazing Grace.... Is Simply Amazing!
I can't Recommend it Enough!

Amazing Grace is a beautifully Compelling and heart warming read about relationships, juggling motherhood, dating, starting over, grief, loss, discovery, love and Family.

From the first chapter I was completely captivated by Grace's story. So much so I devoured it in one night!

Grace, a newly single mum to Archie after her ex hubby Mark cheated on her.
Grace is Struggling to cope with being alone when Archie leaves to visit his dad. But luckily she has Becks the adorable chocolate Labradoodle, her fur Baby keeps her company.
Believe me when I say Becks will absolutely MELT your heart! 🐶💖

Grace is fed up and lonely and with the help of Monica she is about to re invent herself as a more confident, sexy, strong, independent Yummy Mummy who needs to socialise and find herself.

Monica is her best friend and she is always scheming and plotting ways to help Grace get out there socialising... anything from Swishing (swapping unwanted clothes for new clothes), to make overs and blind dates. Wow there has been some pretty Disastrous Dates.

But Grace's luck is about to change when
Vinnie, the very handsome landscape gardener turns up on her doorstep and he most certainly has got Grace all in a hot fluttering mess!

I Adored Grace, it was so wonderful to see her blossom and gain confidence and self worth, her love for Archie and Becks melted my heart, and the moment's she shared with her mum choked me up and that rarely happens to me!
The budding relationship between Vinnie and Grace was so heart warming and real.
It was refreshing to actually witness the reality of being a single parent, co parenting & dating and the ups and downs.

I seriously could go on and on talking about how much I Adore this book!!

This is Kim's debut novel but you wouldn't think it. She has literally put a sprinkle of everything in it. Romance, emotion, passion, an Adorable fur Baby, humour, fun, it's light hearted yet poignant and tender.

There are some sensitive subjects such as grief, depression and betrayal but Kim handles them with the right amount of tenderness and sensitivity to still make an impact.

The plot is enthralling, relatable, and the lil twists was cleverly weaved in, the pace flowed along beautifully with short chapters which I really enjoy.
The Characters were captivating, well written, complex, strong and very relatable you couldn't help rooting for them to find happiness.

Overall Amazing Grace is a feel good, heart warming, Compelling Read with a good dash of Humour, Mishaps, Romance and Passion, Tear Jerking Moments, and an Enthralling and Entertaining Plot that I couldn't put down!

Would I recommend reading this Gorgeous Book...... Without a Doubt.... 100%....YES!!
I can't wait for Kim's next Book!!

Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.


My Review is also on my Blog Website :-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,322 reviews1,779 followers
April 18, 2019
Favorite Quotes:

I’ve been on eighty-seven dates so far but have still not yet found the girl of my dreams. There’s been something wrong with every single one of them.

Derek, here’s a tip from me. On your next first date, treat your lady like a princess. Turn up on time, be nice to her, buy her a drink, ask her about herself and don’t talk about poo.

To be honest, even if David Beckham woke me up saying he wanted to roger me senseless in the middle of the night, I’d slap him and say, David, don’t bloody wake me up.

He treats me with kindness and respect, something that you don’t appear to have for anyone, not even your own family. And I suggest that if you ever want people to like you, go look those words up in a dictionary.

My Review:

Amazing Grace was a fun and lively read and the publishing debut for this talented weaver of words. I just love finding new authors to fangirl! The storylines were creative and eventful, yet easy to follow and fairly well-balanced in emotional tone between periods of angsty indecision and Grace’s gradual personal transformation as she waded through tense encounters and confusing exchanges with her ex-husband, rueful reminiscences of her mother, parenting issues, a thrilling new love interest, and other-worldly influences; until she finally found her own voice and regained her long-lost sparkle.

Ms. Nash’s writing was pleasantly engaging and evocatively detailed with shimmers of delightful humor that occasionally found me barking out a laugh. She has definitely earned a spot on my Ones to Watch For list. And an interesting addition to my Brit Word List was “big girl’s blouse,” which the Urban Dictionary defined as British slang for “a wimpy, emasculated and weak man. In particular, one who complains immoderately.” Hmm, I used to work with one of those… Retirement is oh, so, sweeet!
Profile Image for Berit☀️✨ .
2,096 reviews15.6k followers
April 18, 2019
Amazing Grace is simply AMAZING!

Kim gNash’s debut is possibly the most relatable book I have read this year! Grace is a single mom and as a single mom myself I found her struggles so authentic. That constant worry that your kid is missing out on something because they don’t have two parents in the home, the constant attempt to be everything to everybody, and the complete loss of who you are. Grace is a real woman, living in the real world, dealing with real problems... isn’t that refreshing! Life is messy, but it is also Full of humor and heart and hope. Kim brings an honest portrayal of life to the pages of this book.

Grace is left to pick up the pieces after she discovers her husband Mark cheating. She stays strong for the sake of her son Archie and with the help of her dog Becks. Her BFF Monica is also by her side gently encouraging her to jump into the dating world again. Grace’s experiences with online dating were simply hilarious. I was cringing, then laughing, then cringing, and then crying because I was laughing so hard. Who hasn’t gone out on a really bad date? Just thinking about the dates in this book is making me smile. It’s not all laughs though, the book also touches on grief. Grace lost her mother many years ago and misses her still every single day. I love the way Grace’s mother was incorporated into the story it was so beautiful, and I hope with all my heart that this is true. I am very fortunate to still have my mom, but I hope I will still be able to feel her presence after she is gone. The romance in the story is so sweet and swoony. Vinny is seriously the perfect man and if I ever were to meet him I might be willing to give love another chance. Unfortunately I believe men as perfect as this probably only exists on the pages of books, but I guess I could be wrong?

Uplifting and heartwarming with just enough tension to make it authentic. This is just one of those stories that will make you smile and feel good about the human condition! Absolutely recommend!

*** many thanks to Hera Books for my copy of this book ***

4.5 stars rounded up🌟
Profile Image for ReadAlongWithSue ★⋆. ࿐࿔catching up.
2,902 reviews442 followers
May 18, 2020
I finally got to this beautiful and touching book.

I’m going to swap the title from Amazing Grace to Grace is amazing, because she is. She’s a single parent doing the best she can. She’s more resilient than what she thinks.

It was so touching reading a letter in here. The relationship between a daughter and her Mother is something quite precious and brought a lump to my throat.

But I also laughed within this reading experience when her friends tried to match her up with a blind date from on the web. Hilariously funny.
Profile Image for Syndi.
3,776 reviews1,052 followers
April 26, 2021
Amazing Grace is simply amazing. It is a story of a single mother finding herself and finding love. In a lot of ways (I am not a single mother) I can relate to Grace.

All her life, Grace only knows how to be a good mom. So when life throwed her a curve ball, she is struggle to adjust. Miss Nash also highlight the love of motherhood.

Vinnie is great but I am glad that Miss Nash puts him in the background so he does not steal the story from Grace.

Overall this is a wonderf book.

4 stars
Profile Image for Mark.
1,721 reviews
March 10, 2019

This is a real feel good romance comedy with added thrills and spills that tbh would be hard not to be uplifted by
Grace is now a single Mum to Archie ( who she dotes on ) but her ex Mark is always there in the background, sometimes being charming, more often than not being selfish but Grace copes, she has her dreams of course, a new man, a bookshop and a slimming club she can run where people aren’t shouted at for eating the wrong thing occasionally.....but will these dreams ever happen???.........
Enter Vinnie, who comes to look at landscaping her garden...her dreams may be starting to become a reality...
The book had me laughing out loud at Grace’s blind dates before Vinnie appears and also at the Slimming club she attends and yet also was very touching re her relationship she had/has with her Mum, her Mum features a lot in the book with advice and memories and the issue of grief is tackled really well
Its a happy ( mostly ) book that as said will make anyone and everyone feel good and a great debut from this author who writes to include the reader and describes events and feelings as we all would recognise
Really enjoyed it
10/10 5 Stars
Profile Image for Angela Marsons.
Author 60 books5,018 followers
March 3, 2019
Well, I’ve just spent the afternoon and evening in the delightful company of this gorgeous book and devoured it in one sitting. From the very first page I found the MC Grace to be both believable, real and totally engaging and found myself totally rooting for her as she discovers just how strong and assured she is. The whole cast of characters jump off the page and offer something to Grace’s journey of self discovery. I laughed ( Grace’s dates were brilliant) I cried (I’m saying nothing more than the bits in italics were incredibly poignant and heartfelt. But most of all I smiled. There was one particular scene between Vinnie and Grace’s son, Archie, that I found so charming and lovely that I read it three times. This book does exactly what it says. It is a feel good, heartwarming tale of self discovery and love that will put a smile on your face. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Finitha Jose.
318 reviews47 followers
April 18, 2019
Kim Nash's debut is a realistic take on the everyday life of a single mom with a sprinkle of romance to bring the cheerful and perfect ending. Reading this has been like living through Ibsen's 'A Doll's House' all over again. Here, in a very modern scenario, Grace is confronted with the same choices as Nora -- should she sacrifice her happiness for the love of her child or should her needs be prioritized? Years must have passed by, but for a woman, it is still hard to make a decision when it involves her kids.
What touched me most about the book is the way Grace is led by her mother's spirit and her vocalisations given at the end of each chapter is really quite beautiful and tear-jerking. The role of the mediator was unsettling since I don't believe in that stuff, but the firm belief that our dear ones are watching over us from heaven is something anyone can share.
On the whole, the book has left me brooding. Reading Grace's story has made me realise the hopeful side of this earthly life. If you have good friends and encouraging siblings any murky water can be waded through with ease.
Profile Image for Robin Loves Reading.
2,946 reviews435 followers
August 21, 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Stars

Grace is a single mum. She has a wonderful son named Archie and a happy dog named Becks. Her life was rolling along just fine before. Fairly happily married to Mark, living in a gorgeous town was all she ever needed. However, walking in on her husband in the middle of him with another women was all it took for Grace to strike out on her own.

Grace and Archie are very close. Sharing him with his father is not easy for Grace, but she knows she must be fair to her son. Before Archie was born, Grace lost her mother. However, her mother was never far from her heart and her thoughts. Her connection with her mum drove her on.

Meanwhile, Grace has found a dear friend and has opportunities in life as never before. It certainly doesn't hurt when someone in the form of a stunningly handsome gardener shows up at her door. Could this possible be the beginning of something new? Would this be the best thing for Archie? Grace has a lot to ponder, especially when Mark begs for another chance.

I loved this story by Kim Nash. I found it to be incredibly sensitive, soothing and touching. I literally felt this story. I felt Grace's connecting with her mother. I felt her closeness with her son, and I felt her battle when it came to her future.

Amazing Grace is an extremely well-written debut novel. I adored the humor in this story, and loved how it made Grace's growth so positive. I would love to have an outlook like she did! One thing that I got from this book was Grace was a woman who learned to appreciate that SHE counted, and that was handled beautifully. Kudos to Ms. Nash. I look forward to reading much more from her. Simply put, this book was A-MAZING!!!!
Profile Image for Noelle.
Author 8 books289 followers
April 21, 2019
OMG! OMG! OH-MY-Goodness-Gracious-Amazing-Grace!Set in the quaint but fictional village of Little Ollington, Staffordshire the reader is taken on a journey of self discovery, confidence, inspiration, comfort zones, family & relationships, friendships, loss, transformation, being happy with who you are, change/new starts, hope, jealousy and oodles of positivity! 

Anyone who know me or follows my blog will know that crime is my genre - but every now and again, I dip into other genres and I'm so glad I do as OMG this book was an absolute pure delight to read! I was immediately pulled into Grace's life from the get go and that was it, I was hooked. I laughed, I cried, I was inspired and I related A LOT to Grace. The storyline was engrossing and I sat and read this in ONE sitting - that's how GREAT this book is. I loved the narrative, it was believable and easy to read. And jaysus! The snippets from Grace's mum had me UGLY CRYING - I'm not even going to try and pretend that this Ice Queen wasn't moved by some of the chapters. An inspirational. emotive and at times seriously laugh-out-loud funny - I can't tell you how absolutely awesome I found this debut novel - there are just NO WORDS. 

Character wise - we are given a whole load of wonderfully drawn out characters who I found pretty relatable. What I particularly enjoyed about the characters was the fact that I was trying to picture my own friend/family circle in some of those the author presented. Whether good or bad, each of them brought something unique to the story. I'll just mention a few that really resonated with me. Grace of course! Her sayings had me in fits of laughter, her love of stationary had me dragging her to Paperchase, her low self confidence had me looking in the mirror and her decision to be happy - had me fist-pumping the air. You go girl!! I also loved Monica - she wasn't going to let Grace wallow in self pity and she was determined to show Grace what she saw - a loveable, gorgeous, funny, and inspirational woman who could do whatever she put her mind to. LOVED HER ...and OMG is swishing a thing??!! I love that! Mark - total and utter (insert whatever swear word fits) - what a narcissistic ponce! But then of course we meet *swoons* Vinnie and forget all about that twat, Mark. Vinnie is just EVERYTHING - he brings out the best in Grace, even when she doesn't see it. There were loads more characters that I enjoyed, but rather than me tell you - grab the book and see for yourself! 

The big question is, would I recommend this read? I think it is fairly obvious, but to quote Grace: "Shit the bed' you bed I would!  Move over Bridget Jones, there's a new gal in town and her name is GRACE! I absolutely ADORED this uplifting, inspirational and moving book from the fabulous Kim Nash!A thought-provoking, feel-good and laugh-out-loud fun read, it evoked all the emotions...Follow up with the tour and grab your copy today! 
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,386 reviews575 followers
March 30, 2019
It isn't often that a rom-com is written so beautifully that I am on the verge of tears by the end of it. Happy tears that is, but due to certain circumstances in the book I was so connected to Grace's story that I read feeling everything she did.

Grace truly is an amazing woman, single mum to Archie, has a nightmare of an ex, gorgeous dog, Becks, is up for a local award but has almost no self confidence at the start of the book.

Her best friend, Monika, is determined to do something about it, and add a result there is a makeover and some hilarious but disastrous online dates.

Archie is a star of the book, and at times he is wise beyond his years.

Grace's mum is also a big part of the story, and written in a way that I was unsure of at first but grew to love.

I can't believe that this is a debut novel..Kim Nash had written an accomplished debut that knocked my socks off! It is simply fabulous.

I adored reading this story and just hope i don't have to wait too long for the next one.

Thank you to Hera Books for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Profile Image for Book Addict Shaun.
937 reviews319 followers
April 9, 2020
I don’t know quite why it took me so long to read Amazing Grace, the debut novel of publicist, blogger extraordinaire, champion of books and bloggers and all-round fabulous woman Kim Nash, but I am so glad that I have now read it. Her brilliant book chat every Tuesday on her Facebook page has seen me filling my Kindle with her guest’s books, it was only fair I filled it with hers too. I can’t remember the last time I read a book in one sitting, but I very quickly got caught up in this story and just could not stop reading it. It was a pure joy from start to finish, if hugely emotional in places too.

Amazing Grace tells the story of single mum Grace, who goes on quite the journey of self-discovery during this wonderful story. Grace is a fantastic character, I was instantly rooting for her and quickly became endeared to her. The relationship she has with her son Archie was magical, it reminded me of how close I was with my mum growing up and I wanted to tell Grace that it is possible for that closeness to be there during the teenage years as mine was and as an adult still is, with my mum. I finished this book imagining that Grace would go on to have the best relationship with Archie such was the closeness of the bond they had. Kim wrote such a fantastic and believable mother and son relationship and I think anyone who knows her will know that would have been easy because of the relationship she has with her own son. Archie was such a great character and really had a huge part to play in Grace going on that journey of self-discovery and really finding that true happiness that she both needed and deserved.

I have to say there was a standout character for me and that was Vinnie. I might have drooled a little bit when he first arrives at Grace’s house and continued to do so as his character began to play a more crucial role in the story. The relationship that develops between these two characters was a delight to read, but as always in these books, the course of true love doesn’t run smooth and so there’s more than a few obstacles for them to overcome during the story. The biggest obstacle being Grace’s absolute twat of an ex-husband, Mark. I don’t want to say too much about him but what a truly horrendous character. The best love stories have you absolutely desperate for a couple to end up with one another and Kim does a good job of throwing these curveballs in the way of our characters all the way through the story.

I really enjoyed the family and friendship element that really shines through the story and I loved how the cast of characters in the story all had their part to play in the journey Grace and Vinnie go on during the story. One such character was Grace’s mum who died before Archie was born. I did think that my own beliefs about death and the afterlife would mean I didn’t relate to or enjoy (for want of a better word) this part of the story but I have to say that I truly did. I don’t want to say too much but this is certainly an emotional story in places. Friendship also plays a huge part too, whether it's Grace's best friend getting her into some horrendously hilarious situations as our story opens, to the wonderful friendship she develops with Vinnie's sister. This is one of those stories where it is all about characterisation and Kim does a brilliant job with each and every character that we meet.

Amazing Grace is one of the best debuts I have read within the Women’s Fiction genre and I am so annoyed with myself for not reading it sooner. It has everything you could want from a story and more. There’s delightful moments, sad moments, hilarious moments, frustrating moments and pure joyous heart-warming moments. Amazing Grace really is just a beautiful story of family, friendship and falling in love. I finished it with tears threatening to fall but with a huge smile on my face. Kim Nash is obviously a woman of many talents and she has now added author to that list. It really is amazing to see people achieve their dreams but none more so than when it’s someone you know, albeit only over the internet. So it’s fantastic to see Kim having this success and writing such an enjoyable book in Amazing Grace. I can’t wait to read her next book, Escape to Giddywell Grange, which is already on my Kindle. I highly recommend Amazing Grace to those who are yet to read it. It is the perfect read in this current climate, and at only 99p on Kindle (at the time of writing) you really have no excuse not to pick it up.
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,895 reviews137 followers
April 22, 2019
I can't believe this is a debut novel! Kim Nash has written a heartwarming story about being strong enough to make your own choices and changes for a happier life.

Life for Grace changed when she discovered her perfect life had a serious flaw because her headteacher husband, Mark, is having an affair with his secretary. Now divorced, she's a single Mum whose life revolves around her son, Archie, and she's doing her best to make a new life for them both. However, when a handsome gardener, Vinnie, arrives to sort out her conifers she's tempted to let him sort out much more - and the attraction is mutual! Archie still dreams of his parents getting back together so when Mark begs her to give them another chance to be a family, should she give him another chance or move on to give new love a chance?

This is a truly fun romantic comedy, with great characters and laugh out loud moments. Grace's best friend, Monika, is determined to help Grace make a fresh start and the resulting make over and blind dates are just some of the hilarious events in this well written romance. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and can't wait to read more by this talented author.

I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Profile Image for Jo.
550 reviews
March 13, 2019
Loved this book so much.
Grace is single mom to Archie & her beloved dog Becks...this is a warm uplifting story of the ups & downs of life.Great characters & lovely location.
It made me smile as all of us can relate to it at times. Completely brilliant!
A fantastic debut from Kim Nash - really can’t wait to read more.
Profile Image for Nicola Clough.
879 reviews42 followers
April 16, 2019
My word this author will go amazingly far as such a heartwarming read and fantastic read didn't want it to end so well written and wonderful characters and you really feel as if you are there with them when you are reading it. So true to life and shows you have to make the right decision for you and shows you have to be with who makes you happy. Full of romance and friends and families and being truly happy.
Grace lives in a beautiful village with her son and she has a husband Mark who she has caught with his secretary and he's been having an affair for some time. He's always been controlling with her and puts her down at every chance he can. She also has a son Archie with Mark but her and Archie move into a house together and she started working to to provide for him but when she has someone round to look at trees in the garden her heart skips a beat when she sees him and she strikes up a friendship but believes she would like more. Problem is her son believes if Vinnie is around more his mum won't have time for him and he's all upset and Mark the ex husband hasn't helped. Her friend gets her to totally change her appearance and make more of herself and especially as she is going to an awards evening with work. Mark learns a new man is hanging around and really tries to show he's changed and that they should get back together especially for the sake of their son and she really considers it and doesn't know what to do. Everyone tells her she is so different with Vinnie and they can see she is happy and he's done so much to prove he loves her but Mark tells Vinnie something and he believes Mark and disappears. Grace speaks with her son and says she will also love her son and he will also come first and once he meets Vinnie he loves him and sees his mum is happy. Who will grace choose Mark or Vinnie and will she be happy again. She's always spoken with her mother who passed away and believes she's speaking to her and with her and she tries to guide her with who to choose but will she listen.
This book is simply fantastic and really didn't want it to end at all and worth far more than 5 stars.
Profile Image for Sarah.
2,987 reviews231 followers
March 6, 2019
Once in a while, a book comes along that you fall head over heels in love with and which you utterly adore and this is that book.

The author has created a protagonist who is down to earth, relatable, likeable and I absolutely loved her. In fact there were just so many things I loved. From her son Archie, her dog Becks, her dreams and aspirations. Hell, I wanted to be her!

By the end of the novel I felt like the characters were dear friends. I laughed, cried and had a whole array of emotions going on. The author touches on the subject of grief and boy do some things really hit home when reading this novel. Whilst you may be wrong in thinking it is going to be a bit morbid, it is far from it, as this really is a light hearted read that really packs a punch.

Vinnie is a fabulous love interest of who, will have all readers wanting one in their lives. He really is a dream boat and I found myself helplessly falling in love with the idea of him. Monica, Grace’s friend, now I’m not sure whether I should use the term loosely as her help with getting Grace on the dating scene is something I certainly would not be grateful for. It does make for some hilarious reading though. If anything it made the two women’s friendship more authentic.

Amazing Grace is this years must read! It is fun, witty, emotional, romantic and full to the brim with all different types of love. It totally stole my heart and with out a doubt will be one of my top reads of 2019. An outstanding debut from an author whose books I can not wait to see more of.

My thanks to Hera Books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Profile Image for booksofallkinds.
1,021 reviews175 followers
April 11, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley

Heartwarming, emotional, captivating, and perfect in every way is the best way to describe AMAZING GRACE by Kim Nash.

You never know what the future holds and as Grace dedicates her life to her beautiful son and her beloved dog, she is getting used to the lonely weekends when Archie spends time with his dad, her ex-husband Mark who cheated on her. But she has her work and her friends and that is enough. But when she meets Vinnie, Grace's simple life begins to take a turn for the exciting. This could be just what she has always dreamed of but when Mark comes back into her life looking for a second chance, will Grace make the right decision?

I was pretty exhausted and a little grumpy when I picked up AMAZING GRACE by Kim Nash and it was the best decision I could have made as two minutes into reading it, I was sucked into Grace's world and never wanted it to end. Grace is a wonderful character that is very relatable and I felt everything alongside her and desperately wanted her to find the right path for her. The setting, the friendships, the gorgeous new man, all combine to make this book something truly special and I completely fell in love with every part of this story.

AMAZING GRACE by Kim Nash is everything you wish for in a good story and I highly recommend it to all fiction readers. I really hope I won't have to wait too long for the next book from this extremely talented author!!!
Profile Image for Mehvish Z Zaidi.
38 reviews22 followers
April 18, 2019
Amazing Grace is the story of a woman named Grace who is trying to reclaim her life after suffering from her husband’s infidelity. Her husband, Mark is not out of her life as she shares the custody of her young boy, Archie with him. Later we meet Vinnie, the romantic interest and with the help of a few other characters, we see Grace become an amazing, self-confident and independent person which is quite a contrast to what she was as Mark’s wife.

I really like stories that focus on self-discovery and finding one’s way to strength and happiness after a loss or tragedy so, I was excited to read this one when I received the ebook from NetGalley. However, I lost interest in it very early and very quickly. I found the story to be too detailed and felt that it dragged in most of the places. I found the writing to be unexciting and the story became typical and cliched. In my opinion, if the author had spent less time complaining about Mark and more on Grace and Vinnie’s relationship, with gripping twists, the story would have stood out. On the whole, I found it to be a disappointing read.

I would like to thank NetGalley, Kim Nash and Hera Books for sharing an egalley of this book with me in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for The Book Review Café.
875 reviews238 followers
April 26, 2019
No you aren’t seeing things I really am reviewing a book that doesn’t involve a crime being committed, copious amounts of blood and gore or a serial killer lurking in the shadows. I decided I needed to read something different, something out of my comfort zone, and I’m so glad I took a chance and picked up Kim Nash debut novel Amazing Grace. I absolutely adored this book, it’s heart lifting, emotional, funny and captivating in equal measures. Grace is devastated to find out that her husband Mark has been having an affair and now finds herself a single mum to son Archie. Determined to make a new life for her and her son she sets out on a journey of self discovery.

Grace is a character every woman up and down the country will be able to relate to on some level, she lacks confidence, her life revolves around work and being a single mum (after her failed marriage to dastardly Mark how I wanted to slap him) mum to Archie. Everyone needs a friend like Grace she has so many positive qualities that make her such an endearing character, she’s warm, bubbly, and honest. The relationship between Grace and her son Archie is such a heartwarming one, I adored Archie, he’s funny, smart and very wise, the relationship between the pair and their love for each other is clear to see. As for Vinnie, I’m sure readers are going to fall in love with him, he’s the perfect pairing for Grace I wouldn’t Be surprised if the author gets inundated with messages to see if he’s based on a real person.

I love the way the author incorporated Grace’s mother into the story, these small bitter sweet snippets made for an emotional read. Kim Nash has created an array of characters that help Grace on the road to self discovery, each one is well drawn, that by the end of the book they feel like old friends. I thought Amazing Grace was such a fun book to read. This book has many a laugh out loud moments, the dating scenes especially, but there’s also depth to this book that I wasn’t expecting. At times I found it quite emotional, but the author manages to inject just the right of humour to balance the story.

Amazing Grace has many themes, juggling motherhood, new beginning’s, loss, self discovery, love and the importance of family. It’s hard to believe this is Kim Nash’s debut, the writing, the characters that were superbly depicted, and although my first love will always be my crime thrillers, I would pick up the author’s next book without hesitation. This is the perfect book to read if you are looking for an uplifting book, one that’s beautifully written, If you are feeling down and need a big dose of sunshine in your life then Amazing Grace is definitely the book for you.

**a note to the author please sign me up to Graces “fat club” it sounds perfect for me **

All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
Profile Image for Joanne Robertson.
1,407 reviews648 followers
April 15, 2019
Amazing Grace truly is amazing! I was so excited to read this debut from Kim Nash and it didn’t disappoint one little bit!

Grace was a wonderful character, the sort of woman we would all love to have as a friend. She came across as a “real” woman-curvy, fond of a G&T and happiest cuddled up at home with son Archie and doggie Becks. Her ex husband has treated her badly but she is tempted to go back to him when he asks just so that she will have Archie back in her life full time again. But the appearance of hunky gardner Vinnie, who seems to have been sent straight from a Diet Coke advert, throws a small trowel in the works!

Kim Nash has created a wonderfully authentic life for her very likeable heroine Grace. This book is just so beautifully written that every part of her story was vividly brought to life as we cheered Grace on towards the “happy ever after” that she so deserves. I think each and every one of us will identify with some part of Graces situation and that’s what makes her so authentic! When her friend Monica goes in to organise her wardrobe (my dream job btw as I’m always doing this for friends and family!) the comments regarding her underwear could have been made by me!! I did laugh thankfully and that humour continued all the way through Amazing Grace and, to be honest, it was much needed to counteract some very poignant moments throughout the rest of the book.

What I adored most about Amazing Grace was the stylish way in which Grace’s mum was brought into the narrative. I wasn’t sure when I first read her POV but by the end I came to love this perspective as it made Amazing Grace a uniquely crafted experience for the reader.

I can’t wait to read more from Kim Nash! Her beautifully expressive prose brought tears to my eyes-both with laughter and with sadness-and I thoroughly enjoyed the emotion journey she took me on.

Definitely an author to watch out for in the future!
Profile Image for Vero Rinconin.
525 reviews134 followers
May 10, 2019
Grace divorciada y con un hijo está aprendiendo a vivir de nuevo. Durante su matrimonio el idiota de su marido, poco a poco, la convirtió en una Grace gris cuya existencia era aburrida y estaba sometida a sus cambios de humor. Sinceramente, a Grace no le pudo ocurrir nada mejor que su marido la engañara y se separaran.
#Netgalley
Por suerte Vinnie entra en su vida y junto con un empujoncito de su amiga Mónica, Grace comienza a vivir "una vida de verdad".
Es un libro que me resultó demasiado espeso y por momentos muy lento. Las partes en las que Grace hablaba con su madre fallecida o su madre fallecida le hablaba a ella, me llegaban a molestar y ralentizar el ritmo de la lectura.
Para mi gusto, tiene muy pocos diálogos y demasiada narración, no es mi estilo y es una pena porque el argumento tenía una pinta fantástica y me daba buenas vibraciones.
Hay momentos divertidos, sobre todo los de las citas a ciegas que le organiza su amiga, o la conversación sobre su seto con Vinnie XDDDD
Debo decir que, aunque pensé que al finalizar el libro lo haría, no conseguí conectar con Grace, para mí lo mejor del libro fueron Vinnie y Archie, incluso Mark, siendo el malo de la película, me gustó más como personaje que Grace.
Profile Image for Zoé-Lee O'Farrell.
Author 1 book244 followers
April 17, 2020
Wow, this book is just beautiful. The story of a woman, my age, with a handsome little man, just muddling through. Her life has always been Archie her boy since her douche ex-husband Mark walked out on her. But when he’s not there, life is not fulfilling it’s empty, until one day she meets Vinnie!

I adored Vinnie, he is everything you want in a man, plus rumour has it that Kim had Alex O’Loughlin in her mind for him and well it helps Vinnie had the same surname 😉

As I messaged Kim whilst I was reading this I feel this book is like a slice of magic. It is the perfect book I needed to read. A book about second chance is always lovely to read especially as I know a few people that are so much happier second time around. Because you know what you don’t want and what you do want. I connected to Grace straight away, she is your everyday gal. I had the same fears and insecurities I have, body issues, age, loveability. Grace could be any one of us and I think that’s what makes this book beautiful. This story is something that I could imagine having a cup of coffee and chat with a friend and this being their life.

I have to say her best friend Monica is an absolute hoot! She had me cracking up so much and I really want to try swishing! (Read the book to find out!) she is the best kind of confidence boost that you need in your life. My only gripe she wasn’t in it enough!!! But I can handle that because as I said Vinnie is a knight in shining armour that everyone woman dreams of. Just the little things mean so much to me, not always the lavish show of affection. More the small things that a lot of people might take for granted, you have here with him.

Being so late to the game in reading this book, you can easily forget this is Kims’ debut novel. Already I feel she is established at what she does, and that she has been writing for years, not someone who at the moment only has two novels under her belt. It has been amazing to message Kim whilst reading this and finding out which bits are real. This has completely added to my reading experience and it makes this book a lot more special as a reader. This is going to making an appearance for sure by the end of the year as a contender for my book of the year. It has got everything I need right now. I have finished this book, tears in my eyes but a smile on my face and a heart filled with love….ok, where are my darker books I am getting way soppy!

Blasted out the park with this book, it’s my slice of magic and it’s a well-crafted novel already for Ms Nash. Now off to read her next one!
Profile Image for Amy.
2,701 reviews2,035 followers
April 20, 2019
I have been anxiously awaiting this gem of a book for what feels like forever so when it was finally time for me to pick it up I was beyond excited! From that cover alone I knew I was going to be reading a light and uplifting book which is honestly all that I’m the mood for lately, but what I didn’t realize what how emotional this one would be, my god it made me tear up too many times to count! I do mean that in the best possible way though, they weren’t tears of pure sadness but instead ones that came from a place of happiness and inspiration, this had a little bit of everything for everyone.

Grace is a newly single mom who’s son Archie is her whole world and while I’m not single myself, I could easily relate to her feelings about motherhood. She does everything for her son and her one purpose in life is to ensure that he’s a happy, well adjusted kid, but somewhere along the way she’s lost herself, her spark. Slowly but surely over the course of the book she begins to find herself again and starts to put her own needs if not before Archie’s, at least towards the top of this list. I really love stories where characters undergo a transformation, there’s something so beautiful about watching it happen and this one was really special. I want a friend like Grace in my own life and to me, that shows the author has done a fantastic job bringing their characters to life.

I said earlier this had something for everyone and it really does, there’s friendship, love, humor, romance and family and a unique and unexpected aspect that really moved me. Grace’s mother died years ago and she’s still grieving the loss but there was a clever little way the reader hears from her that was just so touching and sweet. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a book full of heart and hope, I wholeheartedly loved this and can’t wait to see what Nash comes up with next!

Amazing Grace in three words: Evocative, Hopeful and Beautiful
Profile Image for Best Crime Books & More.
1,204 reviews178 followers
April 24, 2019
I have known Kim for a few years and had I known JUST how good a writer she was I would have been nagging in her ear a lot earlier. For a debut novel this book was absolutely amazing. Many people that know me are well aware I have no fear of criticising books even if the authors are people I consider friends. However, I am in absolutely NO position to criticise anything is this book as I absolutely loved it.Grace is a great lead character and in truth I think thousands of women will identify with her. She is a single mother who is constantly juggling childcare with work as well as trying to appease her (frankly loathsome) ex-husband. Archie is a lovely boy who is growing into that awkward stage of still wanting cuddles from Mummy but questioning quite a lot of what she does. Grace is self-depreciating and warm character that you just want to do well no matter what.Grace's friend Monica was a brilliant addition and think every woman in the world could do with a friend like that! The book takes us on Grace's journey as she tries to start taking control of her life and making decisions that will benefit her as well as Archie. One of the most poignant thing about this book is the exerts where Grace is talking to her Mum who she lost to Cancer many years before. I think this element of the book is done with such finesse that it's sad and poignant, yet reads like a positive experience (if that makes sense).I also had a slight girl crush on Vinnie, the man who makes an appearance in the book very early on. He and his family are amazing characters and they all play their part in this storyline. This was most definitely a positive and feelgood read. For a debut novel Kim has absolutely knocked it out of the park. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a new author in this genre.
Profile Image for Anne Williams.
2,225 reviews
April 12, 2019
It’s rare to be totally hooked from the opening pages, but as Grace faces another Archie-free day, greets Becks the dog, and wonders quite what she’s going to do with her life, I knew I was going to love this book. There’s a real talent in creating characters who are so real that you feel you could bump into them when you leave the house or in the nearest cafe: although our experiences are totally different, there was just so much about Grace and her day-to-day concerns that was totally relatable that I took her to my heart in an instant.

As Grace begins to find her own way, the “fat club” was just wonderful (and something I have experienced – the ritual humiliation, the nursery stickers and the infuriating catch-phrases!), and her on-line dating experiences brought back many uncomfortable memories (thanks, Monica…). But then something happens that every singleton – whose greatest excitement is a new pair of Tesco pyjamas – dreams of, when the man of her dreams knocks on her door, and he rather likes the look of her too.

Every character in this book is wonderfully drawn. I loved the way Archie was sometimes a small and vulnerable child but at other times became Grace’s champion and defender – his interrogation skills were wonderful to behold, and so well observed. Her husband Mark is selfish, manipulative and totally obnoxious – but never becomes a caricature, just an uncomfortable and unwelcome presence and a threat to the hoped for happy ending. I liked Vinnie very much – but that element of suspicion that Grace has, that maybe there’s something he’s not telling her (fuelled by her previous experience of Mark’s deception), is really well done. The minor characters are excellent too – Monica as the friend everyone needs, Vinnie’s sister Ruth, the friendly neighbours. At one point in the story they all come together at a really lovely party – I felt like I was there, and really wished I had been.

While it’s undoubtedly a romantic comedy, with both gentle humour and some more madcap moments that have you in stitches, I loved the emotional elements every bit as much. There’s a strong theme of a mother’s love – a beautifully drawn relationship between Grace and her young son Archie, filled with love, and the great sadness that Grace no longer has her mother to turn to in times of trouble. There’s no heaviness here, but the love is palpable – and I often found myself quite tearful as my heartstrings were gently pulled by the clever writing. The author’s emotional touch is quite perfect – laughter changes to sadness, and then back to that quite lovely lightness again, with total ease and absence of effort.

Perhaps the most remarkable thing about this book is that it’s a debut: the writing is really accomplished, and there wasn’t a single moment on Grace’s journey to happiness when I thought anything could have been done better. There was a point in this book when I felt I was really living it rather than simply reading it – as Grace teeters on the edge of a life-changing decision, I really wanted to talk to her in the hope I could make her see that it was wrong for her in every way. And as I approached the book’s end, I didn’t want it to be over – and that’s a real sign that the author’s drawn you into the world of her characters.

Moving, uplifting, totally convincing characters – desperately sad at times, but also very, very funny. I really loved this book, and look forward very much to seeing what Kim Nash does next.
Profile Image for Susan Hampson.
1,521 reviews69 followers
April 13, 2019
When a relationship ends there is a hole left but it is one where the real you has been hiding and it is time to waken it up. Grace thought she had the perfect marriage but her cheating husband had thought differently. So Grace was starting life over now with just their son Archie and the family dog Becks.
This is Kim Nash’s debut novel and it is truly amazing. I loved Grace straight away because I connected with his on every single level. The heart-break of betrayal followed by the uncertainty that you simple can’t do this on your own. The person she wanted to talk to most, her mum, had sadly died years before and she needed her more than ever now. Oh how I knew that feeling too, it is one that you have to experience to realise the sadness you feel. I loved that the author found the mystical possibility of her mum being there at her side, it really brought a tear to my eyes and a smile.
The story has some absolute wonderful little cheeky moments of double meaning delights in the exchanges between Grace and Vinnie that made me laugh. Vinnie is a character that made me go weak at the knees as well as he did for Grace. Grace wasn’t going to go into a relationship straight away with someone though, she had to dip her toes in this pool of men before jumping in with both feet. Her bestie signs her up for a dating agency which is hilarious. there I was this time crying with laughing.
There were so many cringeable moments in the story, with the choices that Grace made, all for self-sacrifice for what she thinks will make Archie happy because he is Grace’s constant love in her life, no matter what else happens. I really liked how his feelings and fears were explored in the story too, not something that many stories do.
This book felt like the author knew my inner thoughts and feelings as she had connected to every single one that I had experienced myself. A beautiful story with brilliant characters, but with one that is truly Amazing!
I wish to thank NetGalley for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly
Profile Image for Els .
2,303 reviews54 followers
April 13, 2019
I think a lot of you will recognize the feeling : You have heard about a book you are really, really looking forward to read and then suddenly it’s about to happen. The publication date is announced and the count down can begin. BUT what’s even better is that you are able to participate in a blog tour and you get the ARC. Woohoooo. Double partytime! 🙂 🙂

You get comfy on your sofa and before you know it you have finished the book. Hours have flown by without your realized it because you were so taken by the story.

This book has everything a feel good book needs : heaps of love, funny bits, sad bits and a wonderful happy ending.

When I do an author interview, one of my questions is ‘Do you sometimes base characters on people you know?’. I have a inkling the author would say ‘yes’ to this one. 🙂

I also believe that some parts were based on situations she has been through. The way they were written … I can only mean they came straight from the heart.

Please do not keep us waiting too long before we can devoure your next one. (No rush LOL) 5 stars.

Thank you, Kim Nash and Rachel’s Random Resources.

https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Profile Image for Phil Price.
Author 35 books224 followers
July 9, 2020
I picked up this book for a change of genre, the cover and title drawing me towards it. Grace is a single mum, happily plodding through life until her best friend decides that she's in need of a pep up. What follows was a delight to read. Hideous dates with awful guys, as Grace tries to juggle her home and love life.

Then she meets someone by chance, and things start to blossom, albeit with a manipulative ex-husband lurking in the shadows, trying his best to throw a spanner in the works.

Although this formula has been done countless times, what set's this book apart are two things, the characters, and the sense of grief that some of them are going through. It gives the story a much deeper edge, as we begin to realise what Grace and Vinnie have lost along life's journey.

Very funny in parts, with tear-forming moments in others, Amazing Grace isn't just a heartfelt, feel-good book. It's much more than that.

Grace was a great character. A mid-thirties mother, who finally realises that she is beautiful and that life isn't just for others. And a special mention for Vinnie. He was a perfect fit for this story. One of life's good guys.

Highly recommended for anyone who just loves a great book.
Profile Image for Trish at Between My Lines.
1,142 reviews336 followers
August 29, 2021
Life affirming

This book just exploded with emotional, feel good, life affirming energy. Such a lovely comforting book, I read it with a big smile on my face and in my heart.

Recommended if you like spiritual, hopeful and romantic themes.
Profile Image for Lainy.
2,003 reviews72 followers
May 7, 2019
Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 257

Publisher - Hera Books

Source - NetGalley

Blurb from Goodreads

She’s taking her life back, one step at a time…

Grace thought she had it all. Living in the beautiful village of Little Ollington, along with head teacher husband Mark and gorgeous son, Archie, she devoted herself to being the perfect mum and the perfect wife, her little family giving her everything she ever wanted.

Until that fateful day when she walked in on Mark kissing his secretary - and her perfect life fell apart.

Now she's a single mum to Archie, trying to find her way in life and keep things together for his sake. Saturday nights consist of a Chinese takeaway eaten in front of the TV clad in greying pyjamas, and she can’t remember the last time she had a kiss from anyone aside from her dog, Becks…

Grace’s life needs a shake up – fast. So when gorgeous gardener Vinnie turns up on her doorstep, his twinkling eyes suggesting that he might be interested in more than just her conifers, she might just have found the answer to her prayers. But as Grace falls deeper for Vinnie, ten-year-old Archie fears that his mum finding love means she’ll never reconcile with the dad he loves.

So when ex-husband Mark begs her for another chance, telling her he’s changed from the man that broke her heart, Grace finds herself with an impossible dilemma. Should she take back Mark and reunite the family that Archie loves? Or risk it all for a new chance of happiness?

A funny, feel good romance about finding your own path and changing your life for the better – readers of Cathy Bramley, Jill Mansell and Josie Silver will love this uplifting read.


My Review

Meet Grace, working single mum to Archie and focusing on life getting back to "normal" after separating from husband Mark. Moving house, getting her ducks together and keeping focused on her boy and dog. Thankfully best friend Monica is on hand to help Grace focus on her, a new look, dipping back into the world of dating we follow Grace on a journey of self discovery and personal growth. In among all of this we hear wee snippets from Grace's mum who passed away but is overseeing Grace's life/struggles/choices/disasters and journey.

This is a debut although it really doesn't read like one. Grace is one of those characters I think any reader can relate to, we all have those self doubts, that moron ex, grief, loss and if we are lucky a few good eggs in our lives. This book draws you into Grace's world, everything that is important to her and the importance of including our own happiness in the things that are important to us.

There are some laugh out loud moments, oh how I cringed for her but did howl, bless Grace she is a wee chop. Family is everything to her and this allows for her ex husband to maximize his manipulative deplorable behaviour, I honestly wanted to smash his melt in at a few points. The passages from Grace's mother, for anyone who has lost a parent will struggle to get through some of them with a dry eye. Even for those lucky enough to still have their parents I think the passages are written so well you would need a heart of stone not to be touched.

The book takes you on a bit of a rollercoaster ride, infused with laugh out loud feel good with more than a few tender moments to kick you in the feels. Grace is a very human character and some of her choices/thought processes will resonate with some readers and others shouting no guuuuuuuurl. A fab step into the world of writing and I look forward to see what Nash will be bringing next, 4/5 for me this time.
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