Chasing the Sun

by Judy Leigh

From the Amazon charts bestselling author of Five French Hens and The Old Girls' Network comes a story of two sisters in their golden years embarking on the holiday of a lifetime, to find love, friendship and new adventures.

Molly’s seventieth birthday comes as a shock. The woman in the mirror looks every day of those seventy years, but inside Molly feels she still has so much more living left to do. Widowed and living alone with her cat, Molly fears she is slipping into a cliché of old age.

When Molly’s sister Nell appears on her doorstep, distraught that her husband of more than forty years, Phil, has left her for a younger lover, the women decide to seize the day. By the morning, flights are booked, bags are packed, and they're off to Spain.

The sun, the sea, the new friends and the freedom are just the tonic for broken hearts and flagging souls. But even Spain isn’t enough to revive Molly’s spirit so she decides to head off for a solo journey to continue to chase the sun and to chase happiness. Will she find what she’s looking for in a new country, or will she discover that true contentment can’t be found on a map? But it might just be found in a new flame...

Judy Leigh is back, with her trademark spirit of joie de vivre, fun, warmth and timeless lessons in how to live. Perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber and Robyn Carr.

Praise for Judy

‘Brilliantly funny, emotional and uplifting’ Miranda Dickinson

'Lovely . . . a book that assures that life is far from over at seventy' Cathy Hopkins bestselling author of The Kicking the Bucket List

'Brimming with warmth, humour and a love of life… a wonderful escapade’ Fiona Gibson, bestselling author of The Woman Who Upped and Left

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Travel, Contemporary, Audiobook, Womens Fiction, Chick Lit

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2021

About the author

Judy Leigh has lived all over the UK from Liverpool to Cornwall, but currently resides in Somerset. After teaching theatre, writing lyrics for a punk band and setting up Shakespeare Festivals, she completed an MA in Professional Writing.

She is a prolific writer, but when she is not at her computer you will find her on the beach, walking, doing yoga or splashing in the sea. She is also a Reiki healer, a vegan and an animal lover. She has three black cats and she enjoys live music, theatre and football.

Reviews

[DJ Sakata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

… our neighbour is a handsome Swedish man who sits naked in the hot tub on the roof terrace. What’s not to like about Spain?

You need to remember that we’re not living in the sixties now, Ryan. It’s not very flattering to be asked for sex like that – I felt like an after-dinner mint.

Ahead to the right was a white three-sided building wrapped around a courtyard, its interior dirt-dark. Molly thought it looked like a rotten molar.

It wasn’t every day they saw a teenage mutant ninja turtle crawling along the highway on a moped. And this turtle, Michelangelo with the green face, the orange mask and the wide grimacing tombstone teeth was wearing a tight leather jacket, an orange dress and a long black scarf that ballooned behind, resembling a cape… An American man wound down his window and shouted that she had made his day: the ninja turtles he’d seen on TV when he was a kid had never been cross-dressers. Another man yelled that she must be the most mutant ninja turtle he’d ever seen.


My Review:

I reveled in this tale of two older sisters who were capriciously traveling on an impulse to escape their restlessness and the drama of their less than satisfying home situation in England. I savored every word and adored the spontaneous and impetuous nature of Molly; she was unpredictable and prone to whimsy and highly amusing hijinks, even at seventy years young. Molly is my new favorite septuagenarian. Ms. Leigh’s well-crafted storylines and writing style were fluid, engaging, easy to fall into, riotously entertaining, and extremely pleasing. Her wry wit, keenly detailed observations, and shrewd insights resonated with me and I want to amass and read all her clever words. I am now her ardent Fangirl For Life.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story filled with family drama, angst, turmoil and travel as seventy year old Molly and her soon to be divorced sister, Nell, decide they’re not too old to enjoy life, visit new places, meet new people and live! It is a heartwarming story, taking the reader on holidays to both Spain and Mexico, journeys during which the sisters rethink their futures, explore new places and even possible romances. It is a story about taking chances, getting yourself out of a rut and daring to dream.

The story has lovely characters, some fantastic settings and lots of laugh out loud incidents. It is a lovely read that I thoroughly enjoyed and I’ll definitely be looking out for more by this author in future!

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I do love a Judy Leigh book, and this was no exception. I especially love a book featuring foreign countries, and this delivered by the bucket load.

And I also love a book which has plenty of things to giggle at, and well grown women dressed as fish, horse riding in the sea, an ill advised skinny dip are just some of the highlights courtesy of Molly. Oh I did enjoy Molly, she has a keen diary writing habit, has just turned 70, is widowed and has wanderlust.,... and I didn't even mention her "self portrait" .

Then her half sister's marriage breaks down and Molly's solution to all of this is to to take them off to Spain for a few months. And Nell, flourishes in Spain, she makes friends with their neighbours and even has a bit of a romance.

However Molly just can't seem to settle, and thus she ends up in Mexico, and as much as I enjoyed the Spanish portion of the book, things hot up and become even more entertaining in Mexico!

It seemed the Molly really came into her own in Mexico, making her own new friends, with a potential man too, and having all sorts of fun and adventures. There are so many highlights but I wouldn't want to give the game away.

I spent a fair bit of the book just hoping my health is still good when I'm 70, so i can still go on good holidays, or longer than the average holiday and get up to all sorts and have the time of my life.

Once again Judy Leigh has written a book, celebrating the simple fact that life doesn't end at 70, and can if you are fortunate enough can just be embarking on the the next phase of your life, and in fact can begin again at 70!

Which is a rather joyous message to be able to take from a purely enjoyable book.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Lyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Judy Leigh books! Her books all have older, mature ladies who decide they’re not too old to enjoy life, and to live their lives by visiting new places and meeting new people.

Like a good wine, I find that Judy Leigh’s writing is only getting better with each novel. In “Chasing the Sun”, the author is taking you on holidays to Spain and Mexico. The two protagonists, Molly and Nell, are sisters who are on this journey and begin to rethink their futures. It’s a lovely story about taking chances, getting out of a rut and daring to dream.

I thoroughly enjoyed the read and am looking forward to her next book “Lil's Bus Trip”, available Aug 26, 2021.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Molly is a 70 year old widow, who makes the most out of her life. She is happy, and likes her home and neighbors, but when her sister, Nell shows up at her door in tears, she knows she needs to do something drastic. Nell's husband of 40 years, as left her for a 37 year old barista. Molly decides that a few months in Spain will help Nell get a fresh start and hopefully not find out that the home wrecker is pregnant. The two of them spend a few months in Spain and make friends. The stay is going well, when Nell decides to have a relationship with a man who owns a boat that the sisters know. Molly is ready to move on and after meeting a woman she decides to head to Mexico and rent her flat. Things don't go perfectly for Molly, but she adjusts, makes friends and finds a special man. She has no intention of staying in Mexico, but can she leave?

I love this line from the book blurb, "Judy Leigh is back, with her trademark spirit of joie de vivre, fun, warmth and timeless lessons in how to live." as it is exactly what I love about Judy Leigh's books. This story has family drama, some angst, friendship, loyalty and travel as seventy year old Molly and her soon to be divorced sister, Nell, decide they’re not too old to enjoy life, visit new places, meet new people and live! Nell was an interesting character. After a 40 year marriage, she was broken when it ended, but it didn't take long for her to realize it was for the best and she was ready to move on and begin enjoying life again. Molly, is young at heart; creative (body painting, dressing like a cod), spirited, open minded, and spunky. I want to be Molly as she is physically healthy and doesn't seem to have the same aches and pains that I have. She has been alone since the death of her beloved, soul mate and has decided that she needs something new, something different. I would love to have her spunk and free spirit. When love comes her way, she doesn't know what to do as Richard was her soulmate. If you believe in second chances, making the most out of life and remembering that you are alive and in control, then pick this book up. Another great read by the pool. The publisher provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not yet 70 – although I’m hurtling towards it at frightening speed – but I can’t begin to tell you how strongly I identified with Molly when she caught sight of herself in the full length bedroom mirror and wanted to attack it with a cricket bat. I’ve never tried wrapping myself in clingfilm and rolling in paint to create a self portrait yet – I might try that next time the fear strikes.

She’s become officially “old” – she looks at her life, her cat companion Crumper, her neglected home and garden with all their memories, and doesn’t like what it has become. She has a good neighbour – perhaps in rather a rut of her own – and they both visit the curmudgeonly old Colonel who lives on the hill and provides a bit of a vision of what lonely old age might have in store. But when her half sister Nell appears on her doorstep with a large suitcase – she’s the one with the apparently perfect life – telling her that she’s left her husband Phil, and that he’s shacked up with a waitress from the local coffee shop, Molly decides that they could both really do with getting away for a while.

And that’s how they find themselves in the peach coloured apartment in Spain, and Molly embraces the fact that life is there for the living. The Swedish couple who share their roof terrace and hot tub provide an interesting diversion, and then Molly meets Ronnie – he has a boat, is looking for customers for his day trips, and Molly enthusiastically dresses up as a giant carp (yes, really…) to help him drum them up. But a relationship with Ronnie isn’t really what she’s looking for – she desperately misses her husband, who died suddenly five years ago, and it’ll take someone very special to match up to his memory. But it’s the quieter and more strait-laced Nell who rather surprises, and leaves Molly free to pursue her next adventure, flying off on her own to house-sit in Mexico.

There are a few surprises in store there – not least an unexpectedly hairy and amorous lodger – but Molly embraces every adventure that crosses her path. I’m in severe danger of telling you the whole story, and I really mustn’t, but her time in Mexico is full of moments and encounters that made me laugh, made me feel, and made me love the wonderful Molly even more than I already did. Ok, so the horse riding on the beach might not have been her finest moment (but it had me in tears of laughter), but when she danced the bachata with new friend Betty it made my heart sing with joy. There were moments that really made me emotional – Santana’s Samba Pa Ti playing on the beach, the sunrise at Chichén Itzá (that’s definitely one for the bucket list), the offerings to the altar on the Day of the Dead – and it slowly dawns on Molly that after having tasted champagne, she just might not need to settle for flat lemonade after all.

There are a few slips and reversals on the way to the gloriously uplifting ending – and one of the best pursuit scenes ever, hilariously funny, but incredibly emotional too, and I thoroughly loved it. But then I loved the whole book – the most wonderful characters, superbly drawn situations and settings, that taste of travel and adventure that we all need so much at the moment, a quite perfect romance, plenty of laughs but with moments that entirely capture your heart. Oh Molly, I do so hope your future will be a happy one – and Judy Leigh, I love your writing more than I can say. Highly recommended, and without question one of my books of the year.

[Grass monster · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Blurb:
Molly’s seventieth birthday comes as something of a shock. The woman in the mirror certainly looks every day of those seventy years, but inside Molly feels she still has so much more living left to do. Widowed and living alone with her cat Crumper, Molly fears she is slipping into a cliché of old age.
When Molly’s sister Nell appears on her doorstep, distraught that her husband of more than forty years, Phil, has left her for a younger lover, the women decide to seize the day. By the morning, flights are booked, bags are packed, and off they go for an adventure in Spain.
The sun, the sea, the new friends and the freedom are just the tonic for broken hearts and flagging souls. But even Spain isn’t enough to revive Molly’s spirit. A solo journey to Mexico is booked as Molly continues to chase the sun and to chase happiness. Will she find what she’s looking for in Mexico, or will she discover that true contentment can’t be found on a map, but it might just be found in a new flame.

My Thoughts :
Being a big fan of Judy Leigh I was excited to get started on her new book Chasing the Sun.
I love how colourful her covers always are and I think they attract a reader even before the blurb is read.
Here we meet Molly, she is celebrating her 70th Birthday she decides she needs a change and something exciting to do. She still feels young and after her husband Richie passed away Molly has been alone ever since, apart from the company of her cat Crumper. Molly now whats to make the most of the time she has left.
Molly’s sister Nell, seems to have it all that is until her husband Phil cheats on her with a younger woman and decides that is where he wants to be. Devastated and alone, Nell goes to stay with Molly.
Its not long before Molly feels its time to take Nell away from whats happening with Phil. So she books them on a flight to Spain and off they go. With Molly’s house and cat being looked for 4 months by her neighbours son and girlfriend they are all set and ready to go.
I really enjoyed the build up to the holiday as we got to learn more about both Molly and Nell and what had been going on in their lives. Molly ultimately wants to protect her sister from the news that Phil’s new girlfriend is pregnant so the best thing she can do is take Nell away from Somerset where they live and not return until the child is born, hoping by then that Nell would of had some healing time and feel a better about the situation she has been put in.
Everything that happened in Spain and Mexico was a laugh a minute, with such vivid descriptions it was easy to get lost in the thick of things. It was great to see Molly go to Mexico on her own and not be afraid to branch out.
I loved both of these characters but Molly has to be my favourite.
I love how Judy Leigh writes about the older generation and how this story is very much a stark reminder that life can be lived to its fullest, no matter what age you are.
Already waiting on the next release from Judy Leigh.

[Mystica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Molly is celebrating her seventieth birthday and is feeling unsettled. Molly has always been a free spirit, doing whatever she wants to do and doing it impulsively. She is very unlike her sister Nell who is upto now unimaginative, living in a rut and quite pleased with her lot.

When Nell arrives on her doorstep, distraught over an unfaithful husband who has taken up with a young woman, Molly decides to move from the familiar to Spain to an apartment by the beach and see what happens there. The freedom of a new place seems to be the best thing for both sisters and Molly and Nell have adventure after adventure and Nell surprisingly finds a romantic interest as well. Molly now becomes bored with Spain and decides to move on to Mexico, also to give Nell a chance to settle down with the man of her choice. Mexico opens a new vista for Molly.

The story specially in the background of Covid is a fantasy - the dream of disappearing somewhere exotic for just three or four months on a whim. It was a lovely spin on what could be and I am happy if someone out there could actually do this. To read about it was also encouraging - both Molly and Nell were not young and this was definitely a youthful adventure.

[Nila (digitalcreativepages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the most fun book I read in recent times. Molly just had her 70th birthday, and she wanted to shake her life up. And nude painting was the way to go. Wrapped in cling film with green paint on it, then pressing her body to the canvas to the canvas – that was her birthday gift to herself. I loved she was so adventurous. So much more than I am now.

Her sister’s marriage broke down and to distract her, Molly arranged for a four month long vacation in Spain. Things happened and she flew to Mexico, where she found life’s biggest bounty as she chased the sun.

I am so determined to be Molly at any age. The author Judy Leigh was brilliant in her portrayal. She was fun, adventurous, exciting, and she knew her mind. I loved how she made me smile whether she was in cod fish costume or naked on the beach.

Each scene could be beautifully envisionsed. Oh who am I kidding? It was so freaking humorous. I had to silence my giggles as it was the middle of the night, yet a few escaped.

The book was one big tale of exciting adventures where emotions stayed just under the page waiting to be discovered. I loved every line, and Molly touched my heart. Full credit to the author.

And the best part was that she had sex at 70 with all the enthusiasm one would have at 20. Big whoopy do!! I loved it.

That’s it… I am turning into Molly now and when I grow up… 70 is the new 30. If you ever manage to get your hands on this book, the mutant ninja on a vespa was simply hilarious.

[Ella · Rating 4 out of 5]

a nice easy read :)

[Mary Nolan-Fesmire · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5. sweet

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another feel good book by Judy Leigh! If you think this is going to a story about a 70 year old woman sipping a cup of tea, looking out her window at the birds, petting her cat in her lap, you are so wrong!!!

If you want to believe in second chances and love at an older age, this book is for you!

Our main character, Molly, is so young at heart; creative, spirited, open minded, spunky and young in body and soul. It appears somehow, she doesn’t have arthritis or any other aging malady! 😜 Molly is 70 years young! It is her birthday! What to do, how to celebrate?
She has been alone and on her own, after the death of her beloved, soul mate husband. Her life is kind of average and she’s wanting and waiting for more, but it’s never enough. So What to do?

Molly decides to throw caution to the wind when her half sister, Nell, arrives with a suitcase on Molly’s doorstep and an unbelievable story about leaving her husband who cheated on her.

Molly decides to book an apartment in Spain (!) so that she can finally do something unusual and take Nell with her to recharge her / their lives. Molly has the capability to always see the positive in everything. And thus, the adventure begins in a new country, meeting new people, experiencing new things, trying new foods, walking along interesting streets and visiting restaurants, shops and beaches in a totally different country. It’s funny and it’s uplifting. It’s sometimes sad and emotional and heartbreaking.

From a stint in Spain they go to Mexico. First separately and then her and Nell are together again in Mexico. With that opens up another new adventure and enjoying the local beauty and unique life experiences. Who would have thought?

I enjoyed the spunk of Molly. She has a good head on her shoulders and is very active and mostly unafraid. She dives into new experiences whether they go well or not. There’s a part in the book where she goes horseback riding on the beach, though she did not want to. Of course things go quite awry, as she figured. But again, her spunk gets her through it. She is truly a people person. So positive, so kind and caring. I couldn’t help but think, wasn’t she afraid to break a hip or something else? Geez she must have good genes, strong bones, good balance! There are times now that I second guess myself from doing something foolish like going down a hill on a slip n slide with my grandkids! I want to…but I know better at this point in my life! Ha!

The outlandish things she does makes the reader smile / laugh. From taking off her clothes to swim
In the nude at night in the ocean and singing out loud to U2, only to find her clothes stolen (!) to dressing up as a carp fish in a tight latex costume to win a bet between herself and a boat captain to drum up more business for his tours. And…so much more in between. She is something else! I wish I could be her friend! She sounds like such a fun, interesting person!

When Molly’s love heart gets stolen at a time in her life where she never thought this might happen again and the feeling is reciprocal, and good time memories of Richie are flooding her brain, she is now very afraid and unsure. Will she find an everlasting love once again? Are there second chances in love and in life? For this lady, she deserves it all! What a sweetheart with a spark!

5 love stars - I highly recommend this book! You go, Molly!
I originally gave this four stars but on reflection, this story was very well done and it truly hit a spot in my heart. Remember all - Age is just a number and life is for living!

[Kymm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Judy Leigh has become a favorite author of mine. She's got a knack for writing about active seniors who aren't happy just sitting around waiting to die. They are out there having fun, traveling, meeting new people, falling in love and even having one night stands on occasion. Her books are funny, inspiring and they always offer a bit of a life lesson we all could use. In Chasing the Sun, Judy Leigh introduces us to two sisters who after one of them suffers through her husband's cheating then leaving her they decide to set out to forget the incident and all the hum drum of home life when they pick up and travel to Spain, then off to Mexico. They'll meet some very interesting characters and have some wonderful experiences along the way. Hilarity will ensue and the bond between the sisters will grow ever stronger through their travels.

These are quick reads for me. The story's flow so nicely and before you know it you've read over 100 pages. And the characters are great! Me and my sister live together, so anything that deals with sisters and the relationship that brings is of interest to me. These books are funny, the characters are easy to fall for and some of the predicaments they find themselves in are classic! Just a great book to read especially if you want a good chuckle or need to remind yourself that life doesn't stop when your employment does. Seniors rock! Happy Reading!

[Honestmamreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want an author that is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face with their stories. Judy Leigh is one of them. Whenever an email comes through from Boldwood Books or Rachel's Random Resources featuring a book by Leigh. I don't bother reading the synopsis anymore, I just say yes please straight away ☺️ I know that I will enjoy the story.

Chasing The Sun follows the story of Molly who's just celebrated her seventieth birthday, and is wondering what is there for her in life.

Nell her sister has found out that her husband of forty years has decided he wants a younger woman. This calls for drastic actions to cheer themselves up. So they seize an opportunity and fly to Spain for some much needed time for themselves.

What follows is a light hearted journey of discovery for both sisters, which also leads to a visit to Mexico. Judy Leigh is a dab hand now at creating characters that are so easy to fall in love with. We feel completely integrated into their lives. In Chasing The Sun we get a deeper insight into Molly's thoughts and feelings through snippets of her journal.

Chasing The Sun is a perfect book to lose yourself in. Wether you are sat by a pool or just relaxing in the garden this story is a guaranteed winner.

[Gmr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love when a book's title can be taken so many ways. In the literal sense, yes...the characters do in fact chase the sun around the globe, but it's not just for its warmth and light. In the metaphorical sense, the cast of characters is on the higher end of the age bracket, so in a way, they are all chasing the sun, or a new day before it sets its last. I like the middle ground somewhere between these two meanings, where the characters are not going after the great burning ball of light in the sky, but rather finding their way back to themselves.

I found myself in awe of Molly. Her heart was so much bigger than even she knew. Her soul was so much stronger than she gave it credit for. Her wildness, willfulness, and gorgeous behavior was so much more than you'd ever expect of a mature individual, but all of that and then some go into making her the FABULOUS person she was. Watching her break down everything around her bit by bit almost broke my heart because I simply knew that something big was coming her way, but seeing it all built again, and experiencing the pure happiness that she uncovers was unexpected bliss. I can only hope that should I reach her wonderful age one day that I am half as feisty, half as trusting, and half as willing to take the chances that life offers to perhaps discover my best life yet.

So, follow Molly's advice and carpe diem! Do your self the favor and snag a copy of this wonderful book that reminds us that we're only as old as we feel, and that it's never too late for love.



**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own

[Katherine Hayward Pérez]

After Heading over the Hill, Chasing the Sun is my second book by Judy Leigh.

Molly and Nell are half sisters. Molly is 70 and is not sure what to make of that at first but soon decides she will make the best of it. She still has lots of things she wants to do. She is a fun outgoing person and I liked how Judy Leigh portrayed her from the start.

Nell is more reserved than her sister. Having two different characters made me feel I knew I was going to enjoy this. The sisters end up in Spain as they leave their hometown of Yeovil in Somerset.

Judy Leigh uses lots of great imagery to show their journey. The fun ramps up a notch when Molly decides to "go it alone" in Mexico. Will Nell keep in contact with her?

Will either of them want to go home?

These were questions in my mind throughout the book. Fun, and some serious moments ensue as the half sisters have the trip of a lifetime.

Again, the Spanish theme in the plot gripped me and this is pure escapism. I just LOVE the cover.

Judy Leigh creates realistic and memorable characters and I did not want this novel to end. It is perfect for a dose of sun, fun love and fabulous food.

Thanks to Judy Leigh, Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.

5 stars.

[Mary B · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book that would appeal to seniors, like me. And it did. It centres around a still-grieving widow - Molly - and her 'people', and their desire to start living again.
We start in England with Molly, then sister Nell whose husband has just left her for a younger woman. Molly is the mother hen type who tries to make things right for all her people but doesn't seem to know how to help herself.
What follows is the sisters embarking on a trip to Spain, where some romance develops, new friends are made, and they both start to feel better. Then one is off to Mexico for more adventure, etc.
It is fun to follow these ladies and see how "the older set" handles what life hands them. One has to admire and cheer them on.
On a deeper level, the book addresses issues such as loneliness, loss, heartache/heartbreak, and more in a well-developed manner. I felt that I knew each character well. Settings & events were described beautifully, and the story was quite believable.
Good book & nice read. 3.5 stars.

[Tasha Bateman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good holiday book

[Felicity Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uplifting romp of a tale, inspirational and feel good. Loved it!
Molly has a birthday she spends alone, and is so disturbed by what she sees of herself in the mirror that she would like to smash it. Her sister Nell appears on her doorstep when her 40 year marriage comes to an end. What follows next is some gorgeous completely bonkers adventures in Spain and beyond.
I was captivated by the fearless free spirit of Molly. All the characters are observationally brilliant.
This book has capers aplenty, laughs, true love and loss, projects, plant based food, swimming and more.
I am now uplifted and ready to embrace life!!
Thank you for the early read.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sun, sangria and new starts are the focus of Judy Leigh’s newest novel, “Chasing The Sun.” Leigh, known for her mature characters, explores the importance of embracing change and finding where you belong.

Molly Mitchell feels like she’s been treading water for far too long. It’s her 70th birthday and she longs for change. Insulated in Yeovil, Somerset with familiar neighbours and surroundings, Molly has been stuck in a rut since her husband, Ritchie died 5 years ago. Molly feels like she’s been starving her inner spirited character and wants to let loose. She is funny and spontaneous and needs an outlet.

Ellen Spencer (Nell ), Molly’s 63 year old half sister, is the polar opposite. She is neat and organized and sensible. Her marriage has just collapsed, and she wants things to go back to the way they were. She’s been married to her husband, Phil, longer than his mistress has been alive. She has enjoyed the predictability of her 40-year marriage and is fearful facing her golden years full of ‘firsts.’

The two sisters jet off to Spain to see if a change of scenery and a sense of adventure will help them embrace change. Oddly enough, it’s Nell whose inner diva is kindled. Molly is happy for a while, but yearns for change again and convinces Nell to head to Cancun, Mexico. Molly doesn’t know why she’s so unsettled after this milestone birthday, but as she bellows out her favourite U2 song from the top of her lungs, she knows she “still [hasn’t] found what [she’s] looking for!”. As she feeds her new freedom, her impetuousness leads her into some rather funny situations. From Yeovil, England to Calleblanque, Spain to Cancun, Mexico, she’ll lead you on quite an adventure. Hang on!

Leigh tries hard not to make her older characters stereotypes, but rather creates real people who have the potential to love, to change and to fulfil their hearts desires. She crafts them as glamourous, romantic, strong, and with a present and future to live for and look forward to enjoying. My only complaint was Leigh’s tendency to be palaverous; I felt like throwing my Kindle every time I read ‘Yeovil’ or ‘Berlingo’ as they were overused. Small potatoes. You’ll love the timeless lessons on how to live and Leigh’s trademark spirit of joie de vivre. As you turn the last page, you’ll confirm that it’s never too late to change.

Thank you to Judy Leigh, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

Published April 8, 2021.

[Carla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice enough light read. I like that there are elderly women (end 60, beginning of 70) who are the main characters and who are definitely not at the end of their lives. I like how they chose new paths, go out to explore the world; they don't feel 'old' to me at all.

2021 Books #24

[Misfits farm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Molly has lived on her own for the last five years since her husband, the love of her life sadly died. One day her sister Nell arrives on the doorstep case in hand. She has left her husband who has been having an affair and Molly welcomes her in. Molly tries to sort out her sister's marriage but then learns that the new woman is now pregnant- something Nell doesn't know. To get Nell away and for some much needed R & R, Molly books them into an apartment in Spain for four months. Sunshine, sand and sangria- a much needed change for both of them, but after a few weeks Molly still finds she is missing that certain something- and it's not a man. I especially loved the part about riding in the sea- for anyone who has done it- it's an experience to behold. A brilliantly written read to inspire and one that made me smile.
A story of finding yourself later in life (which applies to all ages) and not doing what is expected of you. Of being you and perhaps following your heart a little and living life to the full- whatever that may mean to you. There are down but there are certainly up’s- make the most of all of them. Carpe Diem- Seize the day!

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Readers Copy from #netgalley for honest feedback.

Finding home. Molly is on a journey to find it. Although she has a physical home in Somerset, she is on a journey to find out who she is now. Her mother deserted her as a child. She was a teenage pregnant mother. She has flitted from man to man. But Molly never has found peace.

After the blowup of her sister's marriage, Molly whisks her sister to Spain, where they are able to bond and enjoy being sisters. But after Nell becomes involved with Ronnie, Molly yearns to travel again, so she leaves for Mexico. There she meets Kristof, who centers her and makes her question her wanderlust.

Chasing the Sun would be a great read for fan's of Eat, Pray, Love. Molly is a 70 year old who wants to find herself. The imagery that Ms. Leigh writes about you could actually feel that you are there.

[Judy Christiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can I be missing the people in the story almost immediately after I finished reading it? It is because the author has done a superb job of creating the characters in such detail and with such emotion that I feel that I have become friends with them instead of just reading about them.

Chasing the Sun is a journey going from Yeovil, Somerset, England to Calleblanque, Spain to Cancun, Mexico, but it is also a journey of finding where you belong. It seems many people search for years to try to find that place to truly call “home”. Some find it and some settle for a less than perfect place. I am so glad that this book is a Woman’s Fiction and there usually is a happy ending in this genre! Especially in this time when the world is fighting Covid (for over a year now), I need positive, optimistic books to read.

Judy Leigh is extremely gifted in creating scenery and situations with words and I definitely feel like I traveled along to the wonderful settings and experienced the same things as the characters. I laughed so much while reading and also was overcome with sadness at times when thoughts of loved ones now gone came to mind. I especially enjoyed the part of the book when Molly went to the Day of the Dead celebration and visited the altar. That scene touched me so much!

I have read all of Ms Leigh’s books and I love that she includes characters of an older generation in her stories. Just because someone is older does not mean that their life is over. A few of the characters in this book are in their late 60’s/early 70’s and they are full of life and are a pleasure to spend time getting to know. I look forward to reading many more books by this author in the future.

I want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.

[Sally Tyrer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow adored this read!
Judy Leigh is the champion of older women confirming that your age doesn’t define you it’s only a number! It’s never too late to embrace change, travel, take up new interests or totally change your life!
Divorce or widowhood could all be the catalyst for change and a time of self discovery as demonstrated so well by molly and nell in Chasing the sun! Travelling from Somerset to Spain then onto Mexico the sisters experience many new things, new hobbies, new food, new friends,sexual adventures and in doing so discover more about themselves and start living their best lives! A fantastic positive, affirming read that will leave you wanting more!
Thank you netgalley for this early read.

[Lisa of Hopewell · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Interest

Judy Leigh has become a must-read author for me. Her books are fun, hopeful, and feature romance after the age of 50.
The Story

Molly is a widow still grieving her Richie when she is smacked in the face with her 70th–70!!!–birthday. She has her cat and a daughter up in Cumbria, but her life is just blah. Nell has just been shocked by her husband of many decades asking for a divorce to marry a younger woman who works at the village coffee shop. Off Nell flees to her sister for comfort. Molly decides what they both need is sun and a change of scenery so she finds an apartment to rent in Spain and the sisters head out to sunshine, beaches, and a new way of life for a few months.

Travel, new things to learn, Spanish to improve, new foods, and sunshine enliven the two ladies, out of their respective funks. Molly decides to make a short trip on her own to Mexico and there finds something she needed (no spoilers) in a cultural event unlike any other. When Nell joins her things get even more fun.

My Thoughts

This book took a little longer to get into than the others I’ve read by Judy, but it was worth it. The characters of Nell and Molly were both believable. “Life is a celebration,” chef Christoph says at one point and it is very true. I liked the way Molly and Nell each faced their own new realities, and embraced having new experiences and just plain fun along the way.

I always think Judy’s books would make wonderfully fun movies–like Mama Mia in tone, but without the Abba soundtrack. They are made, too, for Julie Walters and I could see Helen Mirren as Molly–so like her character in Calendar Girls.

This story turned out to be so much fun! I highly recommend it
My Verdict
4.0

Note about the editor: Her editor should have caught and corrected an American saying they had spoken to their “solicitor”–a term not used in the USA. The same character also said, “shan’t” which would only be used in America a very jokey tone–probably with a bad British accent. Another American mentions “the hire car.” We call them “rental cars.” These are not a big deal, I just am always amazed at how little attention editors pay to detail anymore.

It was also humorous to hear a Texan enthuse over “Western-style” “horse riding.” Riding is generally done on “horseback” and on a Western saddle in Texas. English saddles and the English style of equitation are used for fox-hunting, dressage, show jumping, polo, and other more formal equestrian events as well as for formal riding lessons. Trail rides are usually Western in the USA–it is very difficult for a novice to do a trail ride on an English saddle. It doesn’t take away from the fun of that wonderful scene with Molly though! It will be a life-long favorite of mine from Judy’s wonderful books!

[Justine 🦊🍂 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Judy Leigh's "Chasing the Sun" is a delightful and uplifting read that proves it's never too late to embark on a new adventure. As someone who enjoys stories about second chances and personal growth, I found this book to be both entertaining and inspiring.
The protagonist, Molly, is a relatable character whose journey resonated with me. Her struggle with aging and the desire to find meaning in her golden years is portrayed with honesty and humour. I particularly enjoyed how Leigh tackled the subject of late-life crisis with sensitivity and warmth.
The spontaneous trip to Spain with her sister Nell adds a fun, escapist element to the story. The descriptions of the Spanish settings were vivid, making me feel like I was right there with the characters, soaking up the sun and culture. The newfound friendships and experiences they encounter along the way add depth to the narrative and kept me engaged.
What I appreciated most was the book's message that personal growth and new beginnings aren't confined to youth. Molly's solo journey after Spain was particularly inspiring, demonstrating courage and a zest for life that's admirable at any age.
Leigh's writing style is light and accessible, with a good balance of humour and emotion. There were moments that made me laugh out loud, and others that tugged at my heartstrings. The pacing was good, although at times I felt some scenes could have been more concise.
While the plot isn't groundbreaking, the charm lies in the characters and their development. The exploration of themes like friendship, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness in later life was well-executed and thought-provoking.
Overall, "Chasing the Sun" is a feel-good novel that left me with a smile on my face and a renewed appreciation for life's adventures, big and small. It's a perfect read for anyone looking for a bit of escapism and a reminder that it's never too late to chase your dreams.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Judy’s work for a while now. I love the way she writes such feel good and funny stories. I read the synopsis for ‘Chasing The Sun’ and it certainly sounded like I was in for a treat. I jumped straight into the story and boy what a story it is. I thoroughly enjoyed every single second of ‘Chasing The Sun’ but more about that in a bit.
I was drawn into this book from the moment I clapped eyes on the bright and breezy cover and the story within the book’s covers sealed the deal as it were. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read this book just before I went to bed. Let’s just say that bedtime was delayed and I had a ‘lack of sleep’ hangover the following morning. I literally had to force myself to put this book down. If I wasn’t thinking about this book then I was reading the book and vice versa. I managed to finish the book in under 24 hours which is pretty good going for me.
‘Chasing The Sun’ is extremely well written but then I have come to expect nothing else from Judy Leigh. I love the way in which she makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story themselves. She also describes her characters so well that they seem just as realistic as you and I. I couldn’t help but become involved in the story to the point where I was even talking to the characters as if they could hear me. (I’m not mad by the way). I can honestly say that ‘Chasing The Sun’ was another amazing book from Judy and I loved every minute of it. I can honestly say that this book made me chuckle all the way through.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Chasing The Sun’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of her work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

[Ashley Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks NetGalley, author Judy Leigh, and Boldwood Books for giving me an Arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4 stars
After reading "The Old Girls' Network earlier this year, I was excited to see author Judy Leigh was going to publish another book and asked for an advanced copy! This book was so sweet. I loved reading about characters, who rediscover family, make new friends, and find love even in the twilight years of their lives. The author did a wonderful job creating amazing exotic settings for the sisters to travel to in order to find the next steps in their lives. The scenery and cultures of each place they explored were given such great details that the reader will want to books tickets right away. The author created characters that were relatable and full of life. I appreciate how this author is willing to write books with more mature characters (late 60s/early 70s). This allows readers, especially younger readers, that life is to be lived to the fullest not matter one's age.
Molly was the more mature and serious sister. I found her willing to protect her sister at all cost. Nell was the more happy go lucky sister as well as willing to step out and try new things. I was happy both sisters found hope in the new life path they found themselves on unexpectedly. The HEA for each sister was so satisfying! All in all, I highly recommend this author to any reader that enjoys traveling and seeing characters at any age find themselves and love. I can't wait to read more books by this author in the future.

[Corinne Rodrigues · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a firm believer in the fact that it’s never too late to fall in love and find happily ever after! So I’m so glad that I’ve had the chance to read three of this author’s books that reaffirm my belief.

This is mainly Molly’s story. She’s a lovely mix of someone who introspects and yet never misses an opportunity to be adventurous. At 70, Molly is not sure whether she’s looking for love, but she’s certainly looking for a change. She feels a bit stuck in the home she lived with the now deceased Richie, the love of her life. But she’s not sure what she wants to do.

When her sister, Nell, lands on her doorstep after breaking up with her husband, Molly decides that they both need a change of scene and off they go for a longish holiday in Spain. They have a great holiday and some minor adventures, but while Nell seems to find love again, Molly seems to feel unsettled and takes off for Mexico.

There she finds friends and a lovely man, but she isn’t able to commit. Will she finally heal from the loss of her husband and more importantly what she feels is the abandonment of her as a baby by her mother?

This is such a heart-warming read with Molly’s adventurous spirit giving me cause to giggle. Great locations and lovely characters make it a very memorable read.

Most of all the book not only reaffirms that it’s never too late to find love but also focuses on the importance of being surrounded by a supportive community as you get older.

I’ll be on the look out for more of Judy’s books and would absolutely recommend this book to you.