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How to Save a Life
You can't have a rainbow, without a little rain ...
When a stranger saves Luke's life, he knows he's been given a second chance. He's going to make it count--and, determined to live each day to its fullest, he starts by saying yes to everything life has to offer.
Slowly but surely, Luke learns that a little bit of blue-sky thinking can go a long way, and things start to look up.
But when Luke's new resolve is tested, will he return to his old ways? Or can one fateful moment truly save a life?
When a stranger saves Luke's life, he knows he's been given a second chance. He's going to make it count--and, determined to live each day to its fullest, he starts by saying yes to everything life has to offer.
Slowly but surely, Luke learns that a little bit of blue-sky thinking can go a long way, and things start to look up.
But when Luke's new resolve is tested, will he return to his old ways? Or can one fateful moment truly save a life?
- GenresFictionContemporary
Audio CD
Published August 25, 2020
58 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
S.D. Robertson
8 books119 followersFormer journalist S.D. Robertson quit his role as a local newspaper editor to pursue a lifelong ambition of becoming a novelist.
An English graduate from the University of Manchester, he’s also worked as a holiday rep, door-to-door salesman, train cleaner, kitchen porter and mobile phone network engineer.
Stuart lives in a village in North West England with his wife and daughter. There’s also his cat, Bernard, who likes to distract him from writing – usually by breaking things.
An English graduate from the University of Manchester, he’s also worked as a holiday rep, door-to-door salesman, train cleaner, kitchen porter and mobile phone network engineer.
Stuart lives in a village in North West England with his wife and daughter. There’s also his cat, Bernard, who likes to distract him from writing – usually by breaking things.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 11, 2020
Thanks to this cover looking similar to another cover and the title sounding familiar, I downloaded this e-audiobook.
Grumpy, almost forty-years-old, divorced barber living in Manchester with his cat, has a life-altering accident that makes him reconsider his actions and outlook on life.
I usually love this kind of books, after all, they're the quintessential character growth novels that I enjoy reading. Also, my cynicism needs the occasional sweetener. Initially, I thought this was going to be the uplifting good novel I was after. Soon, I realised it was too predictable. Also, there was too much overexplaining, overanalysing, I do that in my life, I'd rather not read it in a novel as well.
Mr Robertson, leave some room for the imagination, also, many things are already known and understood to us, we don't need them spoon-fed like we were toddlers.
Being in Luke's head the entire novel was no fun, it became tedious and rather annoying in the end.
Thank goodness it was a relatively short novel.
Grumpy, almost forty-years-old, divorced barber living in Manchester with his cat, has a life-altering accident that makes him reconsider his actions and outlook on life.
I usually love this kind of books, after all, they're the quintessential character growth novels that I enjoy reading. Also, my cynicism needs the occasional sweetener. Initially, I thought this was going to be the uplifting good novel I was after. Soon, I realised it was too predictable. Also, there was too much overexplaining, overanalysing, I do that in my life, I'd rather not read it in a novel as well.
Mr Robertson, leave some room for the imagination, also, many things are already known and understood to us, we don't need them spoon-fed like we were toddlers.
Being in Luke's head the entire novel was no fun, it became tedious and rather annoying in the end.
Thank goodness it was a relatively short novel.
June 14, 2020
A refreshing read that felt so different to many of the novels I have encountered recently. The protagonist, Luke, is a grumpy, lonely man and the writer shows how one incident is the catalyst for bringing about change. All in all, we can learn that it is never to late to make a change in your own life.
I warmed to Luke immediately. His grumpiness was entertaining although his loneliness was painful. Luke does not have anyone to turn to and has managed to convince himself that this is what he prefers. However, the freak accident that leaves him the only survivor forces Luke to re-evaluate his perspective towards life. A self-confessed pessimist, Luke struggles to abandon his life-long belief of expecting the glass to always be half-empty. Yet, being reminded of what he has to be thankful for, reflects the journey of self-discovery that Luke embarks upon.
This is a really touching story. Luke is haunted by events from his past – losing both his parents, his sudden divorce – and what occurs during the storm and then at his barbers, really knocks him back. It takes time for him to trust towards thinking positively and I thought it completely endearing the way he makes friends with those living in his block of flats. Despite being much older than him, it showed to readers how a friend can exist in anyone – even if you consider them to be the polar opposite.
Undoubtedly, the theme of mental health is dominant in Robertson’s story. The writer treats this delicately and demonstrates that the importance of mental health is not exclusive to those from particular walks of life. The broad spectrum of characters in this novel all suffer from some degree of anxiety, worry and some have even sought counselling. They are all brought together by the common need of wanting company and to share experiences. I loved this connection that exists and felt warm as I saw Luke’s own network of friends begins to grow.
I am always trying to broaden my reading horizons – having a male author and a male protagonist is a double change for me! I appreciated Robertson’s portrayal of Luke – pessimistic and lonely, vulnerable and mistrusting to finally, accepting and seeking connections. It was a like watching a flower blossom over the novel and I delighted in the closure that was provided. Some may find this quite an emotional story and I imagine many readers would relate to Luke’s experience. I think this just adds to the realism and overall enjoyment of the story.
In this novel, Luke manages to turn his life around. Those around him are also affected by his actions and as a result, I think Robertson is illustrating that firstly, it is never too late to make a change and secondly, never under-appreciate those you have around you.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I warmed to Luke immediately. His grumpiness was entertaining although his loneliness was painful. Luke does not have anyone to turn to and has managed to convince himself that this is what he prefers. However, the freak accident that leaves him the only survivor forces Luke to re-evaluate his perspective towards life. A self-confessed pessimist, Luke struggles to abandon his life-long belief of expecting the glass to always be half-empty. Yet, being reminded of what he has to be thankful for, reflects the journey of self-discovery that Luke embarks upon.
This is a really touching story. Luke is haunted by events from his past – losing both his parents, his sudden divorce – and what occurs during the storm and then at his barbers, really knocks him back. It takes time for him to trust towards thinking positively and I thought it completely endearing the way he makes friends with those living in his block of flats. Despite being much older than him, it showed to readers how a friend can exist in anyone – even if you consider them to be the polar opposite.
Undoubtedly, the theme of mental health is dominant in Robertson’s story. The writer treats this delicately and demonstrates that the importance of mental health is not exclusive to those from particular walks of life. The broad spectrum of characters in this novel all suffer from some degree of anxiety, worry and some have even sought counselling. They are all brought together by the common need of wanting company and to share experiences. I loved this connection that exists and felt warm as I saw Luke’s own network of friends begins to grow.
I am always trying to broaden my reading horizons – having a male author and a male protagonist is a double change for me! I appreciated Robertson’s portrayal of Luke – pessimistic and lonely, vulnerable and mistrusting to finally, accepting and seeking connections. It was a like watching a flower blossom over the novel and I delighted in the closure that was provided. Some may find this quite an emotional story and I imagine many readers would relate to Luke’s experience. I think this just adds to the realism and overall enjoyment of the story.
In this novel, Luke manages to turn his life around. Those around him are also affected by his actions and as a result, I think Robertson is illustrating that firstly, it is never too late to make a change and secondly, never under-appreciate those you have around you.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2020
Absolutely brilliant read. A down on hope man, Luke was saved by a woman, where he escaped with minor injuries and she didn't. That brought about a change in his heart and outlook toward life.
Having read the previous book by this author, I knew I would be in for a heart wrenching read. What I didn't realize was that the the words had so much power that it made me change my viewpoint.
This was a thought provoking read which inspired me to go beyond my life's disappointments and find my slice of the rainbow. The book was slow paced, but it just gave me time to savor it one page at a time.
A book so apt during these tough times.
Having read the previous book by this author, I knew I would be in for a heart wrenching read. What I didn't realize was that the the words had so much power that it made me change my viewpoint.
This was a thought provoking read which inspired me to go beyond my life's disappointments and find my slice of the rainbow. The book was slow paced, but it just gave me time to savor it one page at a time.
A book so apt during these tough times.
November 2, 2020
What a moving and immersive tale with so many lessons. Luke leads a relatively simple life. He owns a barbershop and is good at what he does. He is not an unkind man, but he is a grump and a bit negative. Life has dealt him a few blows. He lost both of his parents in an accident, his wife unexpectedly left him, and it's just him and his cat. Life isn't unbearable, but it also isn't joyful. One day, while seeking shelter from the rain, a scaffolding collapses on him and a woman who was also sharing that space. He survives, but she doesn't. And this is where his life turns. Luke realizes that he needs to become a person who deserves having been the one who was life was spared. So, he slowly tries to change. But it's difficult to change who you are, and the path to getting there isn't always a straight line. I completely enjoyed Luke's journey, and I think you will too.
August 18, 2020
How to Save a Life
S.D. Robertson
(Review written on 18th August 2020)
Having read, and loved, If Ever I Fall by S.D. Robertson back in February 2018, I was very much looking forward to reading How to Save a Life. I have not been disappointed. This author certainly knows how to write an emotional story.
In this book we meet Luke, who initially comes across as a grumpy character who doesn’t really have the time of day for anyone. You would think this would make it easy to dislike him, but somehow even from the start I was drawn to him. At 39 years old, living alone with his cat, Alfred (LOVE that name for a cat by-the-way!) and singlehandedly running a traditional barber shop I had a feeling he would have a history that wasn’t entirely a happy one. I wasn’t wrong.
When Luke survives a devastating accident, which claims the life of a stranger, he starts to re-evaluate his life and makes a promise to himself, and the poor young lady who lost her life, to be less negative.
Things go well for a while. He even starts to get along with the elderly ladies who have been his neighbours for years and finds he quite likes their company and being helpful to them where he can. He makes amends with his cousin who he has always been close to before a big falling out.
He takes the plunge and starts a new venture in an effort to give something back to his community but, as often is the case, one person ruins it for all and almost undoes all of his hard work to change his outlook on life. My heart really did go out to him.
I found this a very emotional yet uplifting read with a strong message of hope. It is also quite amusing at times. A captivating tale, beautifully written. I highly recommend!
Many thanks to the author and publisher for my review copy via Netgalley.
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2020/08/1...
S.D. Robertson
(Review written on 18th August 2020)
Having read, and loved, If Ever I Fall by S.D. Robertson back in February 2018, I was very much looking forward to reading How to Save a Life. I have not been disappointed. This author certainly knows how to write an emotional story.
In this book we meet Luke, who initially comes across as a grumpy character who doesn’t really have the time of day for anyone. You would think this would make it easy to dislike him, but somehow even from the start I was drawn to him. At 39 years old, living alone with his cat, Alfred (LOVE that name for a cat by-the-way!) and singlehandedly running a traditional barber shop I had a feeling he would have a history that wasn’t entirely a happy one. I wasn’t wrong.
When Luke survives a devastating accident, which claims the life of a stranger, he starts to re-evaluate his life and makes a promise to himself, and the poor young lady who lost her life, to be less negative.
Things go well for a while. He even starts to get along with the elderly ladies who have been his neighbours for years and finds he quite likes their company and being helpful to them where he can. He makes amends with his cousin who he has always been close to before a big falling out.
He takes the plunge and starts a new venture in an effort to give something back to his community but, as often is the case, one person ruins it for all and almost undoes all of his hard work to change his outlook on life. My heart really did go out to him.
I found this a very emotional yet uplifting read with a strong message of hope. It is also quite amusing at times. A captivating tale, beautifully written. I highly recommend!
Many thanks to the author and publisher for my review copy via Netgalley.
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2020/08/1...
March 10, 2023
How to Save a Life by S D Robertson is an emotional story, character driven, narrated solely by Luke, a barber, with a pessimistic outlook on life. His parents died in a tragic accident, then just a fortnight before Christmas his wife told him she’d been having an affair and left him. He is wallowing in misery, living alone with his cat, Alfred. Until he meets Iris. They were both sheltering from a sudden storm under scaffolding when a violent gust brought the building and scaffolding down on them – Luke survived, but Iris didn’t. She had saved his life, pushing him out of the way as the scaffolding collapsed.
Iris’s death has a powerful effect on Luke, especially when he learns what a wonderful person she was – a doctor who was passionate about volunteering her services for a charity scheme in Africa. He felt guilty that he had survived and vowed to change his outlook and his life, trying to be more like Iris.
This book is not my usual choice of genre, but I think it is an interesting book that did give me food for thought. I liked the setting in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, and I could easily visualise Luke’s barber’s shop and its surroundings. However, it is repetitive as Luke analyses his feelings and actions over and over again, and it’s slow paced because of that. He has several setbacks as things don’t all turn out how he had hoped, but it is a heart-warming story, if a little predictable.
Iris’s death has a powerful effect on Luke, especially when he learns what a wonderful person she was – a doctor who was passionate about volunteering her services for a charity scheme in Africa. He felt guilty that he had survived and vowed to change his outlook and his life, trying to be more like Iris.
This book is not my usual choice of genre, but I think it is an interesting book that did give me food for thought. I liked the setting in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, and I could easily visualise Luke’s barber’s shop and its surroundings. However, it is repetitive as Luke analyses his feelings and actions over and over again, and it’s slow paced because of that. He has several setbacks as things don’t all turn out how he had hoped, but it is a heart-warming story, if a little predictable.
March 7, 2021
What seemed to be just an ordinary book turned out to be a book with a strong message about positve living.
June 11, 2020
«How to Save a Life» was the shot of positivity I so desperately needed.
In this heartwarming novel, S.D. Robertson explores the possibility of turning your life around by making some minor changes, by being opening to opportunities and by trying to overcome our inner pessimists.
Luke Craven is a “glass-half-empty” kind of guy. This is something we learn right from the beginning of the story [even from the book] and are reminded throughout the entire story. You can probably guess from the blurb and just from this characteristic of the main character what this book will be about. And most-likely you’ll be right.
Luke runs his own hairdresser / barber shop for many years now. He works alone. He doesn’t have many friends. He lives alone with his cat. And he doesn’t hide his negative emotions towards the world and other people. Basically, he is not a nice person to be around.
Until one faithful day, when his life is put at risk and he finally sees the need to change. Maybe this need didn’t come naturally to him and started out as an honorable thing to do for someone else, but slowly Luke starts to see the importance of doing good, of being nice and helpful to the people around him.
Following Luke’s transformation was pure joy. Even though he started off as rude and unpleasant, in just a couple of pages I was routing for him, smiling and mentally encouraging his deeds.
This is predominantly a slice of life kind of book, with little sub-plots here and there, but all of the author’s attention is on Luke. Even the side characters are there only to help us see Luke’s various facets and to help him through his journey.
As much as I loved the story and message it conveyed, I couldn’t close my eyes to somewhat slow and repetitive writing. I feel like this book needed slightly more editing. The dialogues felt more like an exchange of monologues and the conversations felt too… (I can’t believe I’m going to say this)... polite.
I’m usually the one who cringes from swear words in books, so saying that I found the book “flawed” because it was too polite doesn’t feel right. But that’s exactly what it was! Noone in real life speaks like the characters in this book. If only the conversations were a little bit more polished, they would have felt more real as well which would have added so much more enjoyment from reading «How to Save a Life»!
I will always have a soft spot for the stories that make me want to be and do better. I don’t think this is the best character-driven book I’ve ever read. However, it’s so uplifting that I will make sure to recommend it to everyone, especially during these hard times. We all need a little bit of kindness in our lives right now. And I’m sure this book will inspire many of us to start the change within ourselves and extend the hand of friendship and support to a person in need.
In this heartwarming novel, S.D. Robertson explores the possibility of turning your life around by making some minor changes, by being opening to opportunities and by trying to overcome our inner pessimists.
Luke Craven is a “glass-half-empty” kind of guy. This is something we learn right from the beginning of the story [even from the book] and are reminded throughout the entire story. You can probably guess from the blurb and just from this characteristic of the main character what this book will be about. And most-likely you’ll be right.
Luke runs his own hairdresser / barber shop for many years now. He works alone. He doesn’t have many friends. He lives alone with his cat. And he doesn’t hide his negative emotions towards the world and other people. Basically, he is not a nice person to be around.
Until one faithful day, when his life is put at risk and he finally sees the need to change. Maybe this need didn’t come naturally to him and started out as an honorable thing to do for someone else, but slowly Luke starts to see the importance of doing good, of being nice and helpful to the people around him.
Following Luke’s transformation was pure joy. Even though he started off as rude and unpleasant, in just a couple of pages I was routing for him, smiling and mentally encouraging his deeds.
This is predominantly a slice of life kind of book, with little sub-plots here and there, but all of the author’s attention is on Luke. Even the side characters are there only to help us see Luke’s various facets and to help him through his journey.
As much as I loved the story and message it conveyed, I couldn’t close my eyes to somewhat slow and repetitive writing. I feel like this book needed slightly more editing. The dialogues felt more like an exchange of monologues and the conversations felt too… (I can’t believe I’m going to say this)... polite.
I’m usually the one who cringes from swear words in books, so saying that I found the book “flawed” because it was too polite doesn’t feel right. But that’s exactly what it was! Noone in real life speaks like the characters in this book. If only the conversations were a little bit more polished, they would have felt more real as well which would have added so much more enjoyment from reading «How to Save a Life»!
I will always have a soft spot for the stories that make me want to be and do better. I don’t think this is the best character-driven book I’ve ever read. However, it’s so uplifting that I will make sure to recommend it to everyone, especially during these hard times. We all need a little bit of kindness in our lives right now. And I’m sure this book will inspire many of us to start the change within ourselves and extend the hand of friendship and support to a person in need.
June 13, 2020
I am a fan of novels by this author and eagerly await a new release and this is the 5th book to be published and did not disappoint.
The story begins with the main character Luke having a near death encounter whilst sheltering from the rain. He is suddenly pushed out of the way from falling scaffolding and debris by complete stranger Iris who is also weathering out the storm, but is not so lucky and loses her life.
Luke a divorcee owns a small barber shop in Manchester and tends to keep to himself; my thoughts were that he came across as a rather quiet yet angry introvert person which could possibly be explained by the breakup of his marriage. Social butterfly Luke is certainly not and the only family in the UK is his cousin Meg who he has always been close to apart from a slight rift recently that neither of them would mend as both being a little stubborn. After the accident Meg is Luke’s constant and they soon resume their strong bond.
It is interesting to read how almost losing his life nudges Luke into changing his perspective as he struggles to transform from a pessimistic half empty guy into the complete opposite. The obstacles he encounters along the way only make him stronger and a much more positive person.
A delightful story of friendships, hope and transformation, which I found both enjoyable and satisfying.
My thanks to Net Galley for the ARC and to Julie for allowing me to guest review on her blog.
The story begins with the main character Luke having a near death encounter whilst sheltering from the rain. He is suddenly pushed out of the way from falling scaffolding and debris by complete stranger Iris who is also weathering out the storm, but is not so lucky and loses her life.
Luke a divorcee owns a small barber shop in Manchester and tends to keep to himself; my thoughts were that he came across as a rather quiet yet angry introvert person which could possibly be explained by the breakup of his marriage. Social butterfly Luke is certainly not and the only family in the UK is his cousin Meg who he has always been close to apart from a slight rift recently that neither of them would mend as both being a little stubborn. After the accident Meg is Luke’s constant and they soon resume their strong bond.
It is interesting to read how almost losing his life nudges Luke into changing his perspective as he struggles to transform from a pessimistic half empty guy into the complete opposite. The obstacles he encounters along the way only make him stronger and a much more positive person.
A delightful story of friendships, hope and transformation, which I found both enjoyable and satisfying.
My thanks to Net Galley for the ARC and to Julie for allowing me to guest review on her blog.
August 25, 2020
silly and poorly edited
I skimmed a LOT because author was redundant. predictable. relationships are posed as deep but no reasons given as to why they should be. and totally changing one’s outlook simply because one decides to? come on.
I skimmed a LOT because author was redundant. predictable. relationships are posed as deep but no reasons given as to why they should be. and totally changing one’s outlook simply because one decides to? come on.
May 26, 2020
***I received an ARC of this novel from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This book will be out on June 11th, 2020***
This book touched me on various levels.
In perfect SD Robertson's style, the reader is dragged into the main character's feelings and life with such a force that s/he ends up feeling genuinely for the guy, as if he was family or a close friend.
It's the fifth novel from this author I read and I can safely say he is an artist of feelings.
Life has put Luke, a thirty-nine year old barber in Manchester city centre, through a fair share of grief and loss. Pain and delusion have made him become selfish, cynical and isolated. At home his only company is Alfred, his cat, having recently fallen off with his cousin, his only true friend and only relative living close-by.
One stormy day Luke finds himself looking death in the eyes. Only the prompt, selfless intervention of a stranger will save him from a horrible ending. The stranger, a young, brilliant doctor, won't make it. Her death will affect Luke in ways that go beyond the survivor's guilt. It will force him to put his own life into perspective, realize how he has let the events make him be someone who he did not use to be.
In an effort to keep his promise to honor that life his savior will no longer live, Luke decides to turn on a new leaf and start seeing the world in a more positive way. He will start saying yes to people and things he would have neither replied to before. He starts to open up to new possibilities. He decides to give something back to the community.
Unfortunately, despite all of his good intentions, the road ahead has a few bumps. One of these bumps will see his good intentions being seriously tested, his old way of doing things pushing to creep back into his life.
At the end it will be once again love, trust and friendship that will save him and make him see how, despite negativity can't always be kept at a distance, there is more to gain in seeing the glass half full rather than half empty.
This is a book that speaks to the heart. It's a book about second chances and the positive outcomes of decisions taken for a greater good. It is a journey inside a man's soul, with hindsight on his past and how sometimes life pushes our tolerance to the limits.
It is indeed possible to change, to be a better person than the one we used to be. The transformation we see in Luke can happen to anyone who truly wants to better him/herself. Just as with Luke it takes courage, trust, determination and selflessness. And time. But it can be achieved.
This book touched me on various levels.
In perfect SD Robertson's style, the reader is dragged into the main character's feelings and life with such a force that s/he ends up feeling genuinely for the guy, as if he was family or a close friend.
It's the fifth novel from this author I read and I can safely say he is an artist of feelings.
Life has put Luke, a thirty-nine year old barber in Manchester city centre, through a fair share of grief and loss. Pain and delusion have made him become selfish, cynical and isolated. At home his only company is Alfred, his cat, having recently fallen off with his cousin, his only true friend and only relative living close-by.
One stormy day Luke finds himself looking death in the eyes. Only the prompt, selfless intervention of a stranger will save him from a horrible ending. The stranger, a young, brilliant doctor, won't make it. Her death will affect Luke in ways that go beyond the survivor's guilt. It will force him to put his own life into perspective, realize how he has let the events make him be someone who he did not use to be.
In an effort to keep his promise to honor that life his savior will no longer live, Luke decides to turn on a new leaf and start seeing the world in a more positive way. He will start saying yes to people and things he would have neither replied to before. He starts to open up to new possibilities. He decides to give something back to the community.
Unfortunately, despite all of his good intentions, the road ahead has a few bumps. One of these bumps will see his good intentions being seriously tested, his old way of doing things pushing to creep back into his life.
At the end it will be once again love, trust and friendship that will save him and make him see how, despite negativity can't always be kept at a distance, there is more to gain in seeing the glass half full rather than half empty.
This is a book that speaks to the heart. It's a book about second chances and the positive outcomes of decisions taken for a greater good. It is a journey inside a man's soul, with hindsight on his past and how sometimes life pushes our tolerance to the limits.
It is indeed possible to change, to be a better person than the one we used to be. The transformation we see in Luke can happen to anyone who truly wants to better him/herself. Just as with Luke it takes courage, trust, determination and selflessness. And time. But it can be achieved.
June 13, 2020
When I think of all the books I've read from S.D. Robertson the thoughts that come to mind are evocative, thought-provoking and insightful. He's become one of the authors that I eagerly await their next publication. How to Save a Life, Robertson's newest publication (released today!) is no exception!
A story of a 40 year-old man, Luke, who has become disengaged with life and mostly comes across to others as being irritable, grumpy and unfriendly. A typical glass-half-empty outlook on life. When I first encountered Luke I thought he would be a character that is difficult to relate to, but as the story unfolds you start to learn more about Luke and his struggle with depression after a tragic event in his life. I think this is such an important topic to cover, especially at a time when as a society we are fighting for the stigma around mental health, especially for men, to be removed.
After a freak accident, Luke is given a second chance at life and with this he feels a sense of duty to prove that he deserves it. This book provokes many questions within yourself, about how we see value in people compared with our own value and how our outlook on life can affect the quality of the life we lead.
As Luke starts to appreciate the life he has and tries to live each day to the full, he starts to see amazing changes begin to happen. It's not without little bumps along the way, but it clearly demonstrates the power of a positive mental attitude and the importance of nurturing your mental health.
As always, Robertson's writing draws you in so deeply that you form a real bond with the characters as you follow along their journey. The connection Robertson is able to create between the reader and his characters through his writing style is beautiful one. You can really feel this as you find yourself connecting to Luke, when initially I thought I'd never be able to relate to him. This raises the issue of judging people before you know their story. You never know what someone else has been through until they trust you enough to let you in.
How to Save a Life is provocative and inspiring - a heart-wrenching story that will stay with you for a long time.
A story of a 40 year-old man, Luke, who has become disengaged with life and mostly comes across to others as being irritable, grumpy and unfriendly. A typical glass-half-empty outlook on life. When I first encountered Luke I thought he would be a character that is difficult to relate to, but as the story unfolds you start to learn more about Luke and his struggle with depression after a tragic event in his life. I think this is such an important topic to cover, especially at a time when as a society we are fighting for the stigma around mental health, especially for men, to be removed.
After a freak accident, Luke is given a second chance at life and with this he feels a sense of duty to prove that he deserves it. This book provokes many questions within yourself, about how we see value in people compared with our own value and how our outlook on life can affect the quality of the life we lead.
As Luke starts to appreciate the life he has and tries to live each day to the full, he starts to see amazing changes begin to happen. It's not without little bumps along the way, but it clearly demonstrates the power of a positive mental attitude and the importance of nurturing your mental health.
As always, Robertson's writing draws you in so deeply that you form a real bond with the characters as you follow along their journey. The connection Robertson is able to create between the reader and his characters through his writing style is beautiful one. You can really feel this as you find yourself connecting to Luke, when initially I thought I'd never be able to relate to him. This raises the issue of judging people before you know their story. You never know what someone else has been through until they trust you enough to let you in.
How to Save a Life is provocative and inspiring - a heart-wrenching story that will stay with you for a long time.
June 3, 2020
This is a completely unexpected treasure. As we set off on our journey with Luke, I was not sure I liked the style, or indeed the character, in this book. The dialogue and explanations of Luke’s inner voice seemed over simplistic and somewhat unsophisticated: we join him as he is closing up his (cheap as chips type) barber shop and makes his way home through the inclement weather. Then alarmingly his life is in danger, he survives but only due to a stranger’s bravery – a doctor – and she saved his life at the cost of her own.
Slowly we learn that Luke’s life has fallen apart over the past few years, first the death of his parents and then the end of his marriage. However, the death of Iris, the doctor, has led Luke to examine his own life and his negative viewpoint and he determines to be more positive.
What follows is very uplifting. The simplistic revelations of the plot are a device that manages to conceal the huge changes that Luke is undergoing. Changes that have dramatic impact for him, his friends and acquaintances, and the growth of a more positive attitude, demeanour and a return to Luke’s engagement with the wider world and Society.
Top notch tale bursting with optimism and a salutary tale in this Covid19 lockdown days. Think positive and be kind.
Thank you to the author, publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.
He goes through a long battle with himself and goes through more than anyone could imagine but he is a fighter although he wouldn't admit it himself! All in all a great read and I would recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy for my honest review (less)
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Slowly we learn that Luke’s life has fallen apart over the past few years, first the death of his parents and then the end of his marriage. However, the death of Iris, the doctor, has led Luke to examine his own life and his negative viewpoint and he determines to be more positive.
What follows is very uplifting. The simplistic revelations of the plot are a device that manages to conceal the huge changes that Luke is undergoing. Changes that have dramatic impact for him, his friends and acquaintances, and the growth of a more positive attitude, demeanour and a return to Luke’s engagement with the wider world and Society.
Top notch tale bursting with optimism and a salutary tale in this Covid19 lockdown days. Think positive and be kind.
Thank you to the author, publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.
He goes through a long battle with himself and goes through more than anyone could imagine but he is a fighter although he wouldn't admit it himself! All in all a great read and I would recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy for my honest review (less)
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June 18, 2020
Something really bad happens at the beginning of the story which changes Luke Craven's life forever, and in a way that's no bad thing as Luke has sort of lost his way and it takes a really tragic set of circumstances to jolt him out of his, let's be honest, rather miserable life.
What then follows is a thought provoking read which has all the trademark characteristics which are so evident in this author's writing. We are skilfully maneuvered through the aftermath of loss and grief and taken on a life-affirming journey which will see Luke challenge himself in many different ways. Over the course of the story, I enjoyed watching how Luke's character went through a metamorphosis which, in a way, reiterated the thought, particularly in these challenging times, that we never really know what's around the corner and should appreciate more what blessings we have.
I must admit that it took me a while to warm to Luke's character he seemed such a cup half empty kind of guy however, by the end of the story I was cheering him on and hoped everything would work out for him. I thought that it was also interesting to have a male protagonist and written from a male perspective by a male author gave the story a different dynamic, which I enjoyed.
How to Save a Life is an interesting story about being kind to oneself and others.
What then follows is a thought provoking read which has all the trademark characteristics which are so evident in this author's writing. We are skilfully maneuvered through the aftermath of loss and grief and taken on a life-affirming journey which will see Luke challenge himself in many different ways. Over the course of the story, I enjoyed watching how Luke's character went through a metamorphosis which, in a way, reiterated the thought, particularly in these challenging times, that we never really know what's around the corner and should appreciate more what blessings we have.
I must admit that it took me a while to warm to Luke's character he seemed such a cup half empty kind of guy however, by the end of the story I was cheering him on and hoped everything would work out for him. I thought that it was also interesting to have a male protagonist and written from a male perspective by a male author gave the story a different dynamic, which I enjoyed.
How to Save a Life is an interesting story about being kind to oneself and others.
June 4, 2020
A feel good book about a guy down on his luck who seems to get a second chance at life! Heartwarming with lovable characters who really make the story great!
Luke is a glass half empty kind of guy, looking down on others and just plain miserable after losing his parents and getting divorced in the same short span. It doesn’t matter that it has been several years since those events, he still hasn’t gotten over it. This all changes the day of his brief meeting with Iris. Standing under scaffolding, waiting out a storm, the two strangers strike up a conversation but then tragedy strikes and the scaffolding comes down and Iris pushes Luke out of the danger and herself into it. Luke has no idea why he was the one who survived instead of the kind hearted doctor who everyone loved. He goes to her funeral and finds himself so overwhelmed that he vows to lead a better life and honor the woman whose life was lost!
Luke makes several new friends along the way who help him see a different side of life and change that half empty glass into a full one while helping others!
Thank you netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Luke is a glass half empty kind of guy, looking down on others and just plain miserable after losing his parents and getting divorced in the same short span. It doesn’t matter that it has been several years since those events, he still hasn’t gotten over it. This all changes the day of his brief meeting with Iris. Standing under scaffolding, waiting out a storm, the two strangers strike up a conversation but then tragedy strikes and the scaffolding comes down and Iris pushes Luke out of the danger and herself into it. Luke has no idea why he was the one who survived instead of the kind hearted doctor who everyone loved. He goes to her funeral and finds himself so overwhelmed that he vows to lead a better life and honor the woman whose life was lost!
Luke makes several new friends along the way who help him see a different side of life and change that half empty glass into a full one while helping others!
Thank you netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
August 16, 2020
Luke Craven is a bit of a misery guts who has let life pass him by after the sudden death of his parents and getting divorced from his wife but one freak accident changes everything for him. After a storm leaves Luke's life in danger and a stranger (who saved him) dead he resolves to turn his life around and start to see the brighter side of life.
I loved that Luke was so real and relateable. I could just picture him and his little barber shop in my head and I was rooting for him to finally start enjoying life and to see all the goodness he actually did have in his life.
Luke's resolution to help the homeless opens Luke up to being vulnerable and this is no more true when halfway through the book we are truly shocked to the core when he finds himself victimised just for helping others. I found this part completely heartbreaking.
This was a nice and easy read that I could just settle into and lose myself for a while. It was a true page turner with a nice story that should remind us all to live life to its fullest especially during these crazy times.
Bravo! 10/10. I cannot wait to read more.
I loved that Luke was so real and relateable. I could just picture him and his little barber shop in my head and I was rooting for him to finally start enjoying life and to see all the goodness he actually did have in his life.
Luke's resolution to help the homeless opens Luke up to being vulnerable and this is no more true when halfway through the book we are truly shocked to the core when he finds himself victimised just for helping others. I found this part completely heartbreaking.
This was a nice and easy read that I could just settle into and lose myself for a while. It was a true page turner with a nice story that should remind us all to live life to its fullest especially during these crazy times.
Bravo! 10/10. I cannot wait to read more.
March 19, 2020
When I first started to read this book I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I wasn't sure how the story would go but I was interested to see where the journey would take me.
I instantly found Luke a normal kind of guy. With a pessimistic attitude but a get on with it mind set that helped him through everything that has happened in his past and everything that came in his future.
He goes through so much during this story and parts of it made me want to reach inside the book to give him a hug and tell him things would be OK.
Don't get me wrong, this wasn't a woe is me story, it is full of optimism and love too.
After Luke is nearly killed by a freak accident he decides to change his outlook on life all because of a stranger who saved him from being killed.
He goes through a long battle with himself and goes through more than anyone could imagine but he is a fighter although he wouldn't admit it himself! All in all a great read and I would recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy for my honest review
I instantly found Luke a normal kind of guy. With a pessimistic attitude but a get on with it mind set that helped him through everything that has happened in his past and everything that came in his future.
He goes through so much during this story and parts of it made me want to reach inside the book to give him a hug and tell him things would be OK.
Don't get me wrong, this wasn't a woe is me story, it is full of optimism and love too.
After Luke is nearly killed by a freak accident he decides to change his outlook on life all because of a stranger who saved him from being killed.
He goes through a long battle with himself and goes through more than anyone could imagine but he is a fighter although he wouldn't admit it himself! All in all a great read and I would recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy for my honest review
June 7, 2020
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story is about Luke who owns and single handedly runs a barbershop. Luke is a very pessimistic person. We find out later on why this is. One day Luke is walking home from work when there is a bad storm. He takes shelter under some scaffolding where a woman is also sheltering. The scaffolding is not secure and the woman pushes Luke out of the way. In doing so she saves his life. This sparks a change in Luke and he decides to change his life for the better.
I did enjoy this book overall but I felt that Luke was portrayed as a much older man than he was supposed to be.. I thought that incorporating Luke’s dreams into the story was really clever. I had a lot of sympathy for Luke. The ending was too predictable for my liking.
This story is about Luke who owns and single handedly runs a barbershop. Luke is a very pessimistic person. We find out later on why this is. One day Luke is walking home from work when there is a bad storm. He takes shelter under some scaffolding where a woman is also sheltering. The scaffolding is not secure and the woman pushes Luke out of the way. In doing so she saves his life. This sparks a change in Luke and he decides to change his life for the better.
I did enjoy this book overall but I felt that Luke was portrayed as a much older man than he was supposed to be.. I thought that incorporating Luke’s dreams into the story was really clever. I had a lot of sympathy for Luke. The ending was too predictable for my liking.
June 6, 2020
I really enjoyed this book, as soon as I started reading it I was attracted by two facts. 1 - that it was written with a male main character and 2 - that it was set in Manchester, the Northern Quarter to be precise. I can’t think of many other books I’ve read that have a male lead so this was interesting to me straight away. When I discovered the setting it was another reason why I had to read the book.
I could picture the scenes and events of the book from recollections of streets that I’ve actually walked down myself. I’ve even had my hair cut in the northern quarter albeit it not from a local barbers!
The story takes you through the ups and downs of Luke’s life and although I couldn’t directly relate to any of the issues he faced, I felt like I wanted to know what was happening. There are a few quite vivid scenes which I think the author writes about so well. You get the seriousness of them but don’t feel too grossed out.
I also really liked the inclusion of the homeless community in this story, a subject a lot of people would avoid but it actually makes you open your eyes to the things happening around us.
Really enjoyed reading this book, it wasn’t what i expected on the tin but I’m glad I read it and will seek out more books by S.D. Robertson in the future.
I could picture the scenes and events of the book from recollections of streets that I’ve actually walked down myself. I’ve even had my hair cut in the northern quarter albeit it not from a local barbers!
The story takes you through the ups and downs of Luke’s life and although I couldn’t directly relate to any of the issues he faced, I felt like I wanted to know what was happening. There are a few quite vivid scenes which I think the author writes about so well. You get the seriousness of them but don’t feel too grossed out.
I also really liked the inclusion of the homeless community in this story, a subject a lot of people would avoid but it actually makes you open your eyes to the things happening around us.
Really enjoyed reading this book, it wasn’t what i expected on the tin but I’m glad I read it and will seek out more books by S.D. Robertson in the future.
June 6, 2020
When Iris pushes Luke out of the way of falling scaffolding- everything changes. He's had a really rough go and is in the pits, not so much living as existing. Her selfless act, however, makes him rethink his life and he realizes that he has to wake up. It's not this easy, really, to deal with depression but Robertson has written the sort of novel that argues for kindness. Paying it forward means more than dropping extra change at the cash register; Luke slowly comes around to the realization that he to act. Thanks to Netgalley fo the ARC. This was a good read in the midst of the current troubles but its positivity will resonate whenever you pick it up.
June 4, 2020
This is such a different read ,Luke is a hairdresser ,a bit grumpy with a very pessimistic attitude but he gets through life though it is a lonely one .Then his life is saved one night in a freak accident by Iris and he decides to change his life and turn it around because of her.This is a heartwarming story that is full of hope.There are some brilliant characters and I enjoyed this book very much .Many Thanks to the Publishers the Author and NetGalley for my preview copy in return for an honest review .
June 11, 2020
Like all of S. D. Robertson's books this was another powerful yet thought provoking story. This time about a guy called Luke, who is a bit of a grumpy old man, after a chance but harrowing encounter with a stranger he realises that things happen for a reason and tries to do good and mend his ways. I thought all the things Luke did were very courageous and how people helped him warmed my heart. This book will show you that it is never to late to have a more positive attitude.I look forward to the next book.
June 14, 2020
Thanks to publisher Avon Books UK and NetGalley for a digital advance reader's copy. All comments and opinions are my own.
If you're looking for a feel-good story about a "glass-half empty" kind of guy, this is the book for you. Luke starts out as a man with a negative attitude, someone who is selfish and frequently feels sorry for himself. After a nearly fatal accident, he begins to make changes in his life, how he treats others, and opens his heart as he learns about hope and second chances. This was a comforting, heartwarming novel for these times.
If you're looking for a feel-good story about a "glass-half empty" kind of guy, this is the book for you. Luke starts out as a man with a negative attitude, someone who is selfish and frequently feels sorry for himself. After a nearly fatal accident, he begins to make changes in his life, how he treats others, and opens his heart as he learns about hope and second chances. This was a comforting, heartwarming novel for these times.
April 11, 2020
This is the second book I have read by S D Robertson and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was easy to identify with the main character Luke and the personal crisis he was going through. Luke has a life experience that makes him realise that he needs to change his outlook. Meeting a girl called Iris brings him down a road where he never thought he would go. It would be great to have a sequel to see how Luke continues in his new way of thinking.
July 8, 2020
Luke is a true pessimist. His glass is always half empty, never half full. After losing his parents, swiftly followed by his wife, Luke lives quite a solitary existence, with only his cat, Alfred for company. A freak accident during a storm proves a life changing experience for Luke, and the story that follows is heartwarming and quite lovely. Yes, at some points it's really, really cheesy, but that fits well with the story.
August 20, 2020
Well what can I say. A truly inspiring book that goes to show how people can have an impact on the lives around them. The powerful message behind the book is, always stay positive and remember never judge a book by its cover. Luke is an ordanary guy who is trying to stay dry from the rain when he meets Iris. But what he doesn't know is that his life is about to change. You will have to read the book to find out more.
May 15, 2021
3.5 ⭐
Sweet, feel good novel emphasising how beneficial positivity can be and the importance of relationships in our lives.
I liked the fact that it was told from a man's perspective.
I did feel the blurb at the back of the book gave too much away in terms of the plot. Although a few events do happen over the course of the novel it is told in such an understated way that it can feel that not a lot is happening, but that didn't bother me, as it was a relaxing read.
Sweet, feel good novel emphasising how beneficial positivity can be and the importance of relationships in our lives.
I liked the fact that it was told from a man's perspective.
I did feel the blurb at the back of the book gave too much away in terms of the plot. Although a few events do happen over the course of the novel it is told in such an understated way that it can feel that not a lot is happening, but that didn't bother me, as it was a relaxing read.
March 28, 2020
This was a heartwarming story which puts life in perspective. It basically follows the story of Luke, who is grumpy and pessimistic and how he tries to turn his life around to become a more positive thinker and how this has a bigger impact in his life more than he could have imagined.
A good read which I recommend and I rated it a 4⭐️.
A good read which I recommend and I rated it a 4⭐️.
March 31, 2020
I received this book "How To Save A Life", although on Goodreads it appears to be called "Mr Blue Sky" from NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own. Poor Luke, things just seem to be going wrong at every turn in his life. I thought the book was okay. I didn't find anything exciting about the story. I didn't really connect with the characters.
May 31, 2020
This was an interesting story, how does one come back from the experience that Luke had? Being a pessimist, Luke looks at life as the glass is half empty until he experiences situations that would affect anyone. I enjoyed how he re-discovered the meaning of life and those around him. I have since added more of his books to my TBR pile.
📚Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC📚
📚Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC📚
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