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The Happy Accidents
Three women wake up to the consequences of one impulsive pact in an insightful novel about friendship, love, and fulfillment by Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jamie Beck.
While at a casino to celebrate her birthday, Jessie Clarke proposes a pact to her reserved sister, Liz, and their childhood friend Chloe: the three women will say yes to any adventure that comes their way. Jessie is mourning her recent divorce, so the other two reluctantly agree. Twelve hours later, they awaken to the shocking consequences of their behavior.
A viral video throws Liz’s career and reputation into question. A major loss at the craps table rocks the foundation of Chloe’s staid marriage. And Jessie’s desperate bid to unblock her artistic creativity results in a life-changing choice. Staring down the crossroads, each woman finds her relationships—with herself, with each other, and with loves both old and new—tested. At every turn, they struggle not to let fear decide their fates. Will they give in, or will their misadventures lead to the greatest fulfillment of all?
While at a casino to celebrate her birthday, Jessie Clarke proposes a pact to her reserved sister, Liz, and their childhood friend Chloe: the three women will say yes to any adventure that comes their way. Jessie is mourning her recent divorce, so the other two reluctantly agree. Twelve hours later, they awaken to the shocking consequences of their behavior.
A viral video throws Liz’s career and reputation into question. A major loss at the craps table rocks the foundation of Chloe’s staid marriage. And Jessie’s desperate bid to unblock her artistic creativity results in a life-changing choice. Staring down the crossroads, each woman finds her relationships—with herself, with each other, and with loves both old and new—tested. At every turn, they struggle not to let fear decide their fates. Will they give in, or will their misadventures lead to the greatest fulfillment of all?
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2021
1193 people are currently reading
5376 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Beck
22 books2,619 followersJamie Beck is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of 18 novels, which have been translated into multiple languages and have sold more than three million copies worldwide. She is a two-time Booksellers' Best Award finalist, a Women’s Fiction Writers Association STAR award finalist, a National Readers' Choice Award winner, and critics at Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, and Booklist have respectively called her work "smart," "uplifting," and "entertaining." In addition to writing novels, she enjoys dancing around the kitchen while cooking and hitting the slopes in Vermont and Utah. Above all, she is a grateful wife and mother to a very patient, supportive family.
Fans can learn more about her on the web (www.jamiebeck.com). She also loves interacting with everyone on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JamieBeckBooks) and Instagram (@writerjamiebeck).
My newsletter subscribers get monthly fun tips, a chance to win a reader gift box, and other exclusive content. Sign up now! https://bit.ly/JBeckNewsletter. For updates on discounts and new releases, follow me on BookBub at http://bit.ly/2GBcLM3. NO SPAM--EVER.
Fans can learn more about her on the web (www.jamiebeck.com). She also loves interacting with everyone on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JamieBeckBooks) and Instagram (@writerjamiebeck).
My newsletter subscribers get monthly fun tips, a chance to win a reader gift box, and other exclusive content. Sign up now! https://bit.ly/JBeckNewsletter. For updates on discounts and new releases, follow me on BookBub at http://bit.ly/2GBcLM3. NO SPAM--EVER.
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May 2, 2021Hello, readers! I thought I’d take a moment to talk about what inspired this story, and how writing it during the first six months of the pandemic lockdown affected me and the book.
I am, by nature, a cautious person. Very often I’ve forgone the potentially fun but risky option in favor of the safe one. That said, because I’ve wanted my kids to have an adventuresome spirit and overcome fears that hold them back, I’ve taught them to imagine the worst-case scenario and then consider what they would do if that happened. Often that helps put things in a different perspective and gives them (or anyone) enough courage to “go for it.” It was this concept that spurred the idea for the premise of this story about friends who let loose for one night and then pay for the fallout afterward. What at first seems like the worst-case scenario becomes the best thing that ever happened to them, which is the kind of optimistic outlook I really needed to reach for while writing this book.
As noted above, I wrote this during some of the worst months of the pandemic (chaos and uncertainty reigned) and the brutal presidential campaign. My mood was not good. I desperately needed to steer clear of the heavier topics and conflict I tend to explore in my work. It was a pleasant diversion to bubble along with three women (sisters and a friend) who get a chance at a new life they didn’t even know they were looking for. What resulted is a breezy story about living more authentically, which is something we can probably all get behind.
I hope you enjoy it.
I am, by nature, a cautious person. Very often I’ve forgone the potentially fun but risky option in favor of the safe one. That said, because I’ve wanted my kids to have an adventuresome spirit and overcome fears that hold them back, I’ve taught them to imagine the worst-case scenario and then consider what they would do if that happened. Often that helps put things in a different perspective and gives them (or anyone) enough courage to “go for it.” It was this concept that spurred the idea for the premise of this story about friends who let loose for one night and then pay for the fallout afterward. What at first seems like the worst-case scenario becomes the best thing that ever happened to them, which is the kind of optimistic outlook I really needed to reach for while writing this book.
As noted above, I wrote this during some of the worst months of the pandemic (chaos and uncertainty reigned) and the brutal presidential campaign. My mood was not good. I desperately needed to steer clear of the heavier topics and conflict I tend to explore in my work. It was a pleasant diversion to bubble along with three women (sisters and a friend) who get a chance at a new life they didn’t even know they were looking for. What resulted is a breezy story about living more authentically, which is something we can probably all get behind.
I hope you enjoy it.
September 22, 2021
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
THE HAPPY ACCIDENTS by Jamie Beck is a Women’s fiction story that has three women in their thirties at a crossroad in each of their lives due to the consequences of an impulsive night on the town.
Successful artist Jessie Clarke has a pact with her younger sister, Liz, the co-host of a successful morning show and her childhood best friend, Chloe, the stay-at-home mom of two in which the three will say “Yes” to any adventure that comes their way.
Jessie is mourning her divorce and reminds her sister and friend of their pact. They go to a casino to celebrate Jessie’s upcoming birthday and twelve hours later wake to the consequences of their behavior. Jess makes a life changing bid to unblock her artistic creativity. A viral video throws Liz’s career and reputation into question. Chloe has a major loss at the craps table.
Now each woman finds their lives and friendships tested. As each struggle with the changes from their pact, they try not to let fear decide their future fates which could lead to their greatest fulfillment yet in their lives.
I enjoyed each of these women’s journeys and I found each of the women to be believably and realistically portrayed. Sometimes when reading a Women’s fiction story, it feels like I am reading a soap opera, but Ms. Beck’s characters make me feel like I am following real people that I could meet anywhere and empathize with. This plot is full of thought-provoking questions, but the story itself is optimistic. Change can be terrifying and most of us prefer to just keep to the status quo, but this story makes you want to fight that fear and find something amazing, fulfilling, and new with a change, forced upon us or not.
I recommend this optimistic Women’s fiction story!
THE HAPPY ACCIDENTS by Jamie Beck is a Women’s fiction story that has three women in their thirties at a crossroad in each of their lives due to the consequences of an impulsive night on the town.
Successful artist Jessie Clarke has a pact with her younger sister, Liz, the co-host of a successful morning show and her childhood best friend, Chloe, the stay-at-home mom of two in which the three will say “Yes” to any adventure that comes their way.
Jessie is mourning her divorce and reminds her sister and friend of their pact. They go to a casino to celebrate Jessie’s upcoming birthday and twelve hours later wake to the consequences of their behavior. Jess makes a life changing bid to unblock her artistic creativity. A viral video throws Liz’s career and reputation into question. Chloe has a major loss at the craps table.
Now each woman finds their lives and friendships tested. As each struggle with the changes from their pact, they try not to let fear decide their future fates which could lead to their greatest fulfillment yet in their lives.
I enjoyed each of these women’s journeys and I found each of the women to be believably and realistically portrayed. Sometimes when reading a Women’s fiction story, it feels like I am reading a soap opera, but Ms. Beck’s characters make me feel like I am following real people that I could meet anywhere and empathize with. This plot is full of thought-provoking questions, but the story itself is optimistic. Change can be terrifying and most of us prefer to just keep to the status quo, but this story makes you want to fight that fear and find something amazing, fulfilling, and new with a change, forced upon us or not.
I recommend this optimistic Women’s fiction story!
May 19, 2021
The Happy Accidents by Jamie Beck is a beautifully written, optimistic look at the lives of three women, who take control of their lives after facing the difficult consequences of an impulsive night out on the town.
Jesse and Liz Clarke, sisters, along with their best friend Chloe, go out to a casino for a girl’s night out. They decide to live life to the fullest and take on any adventure that comes their way. The next morning, when the fallout of that night becomes shockingly apparent, they find their lives forever changed. This is a story of how these women deal with the consequences of their night out and move on, it’s a story of overcoming fear, and how the fear tests their relationships with each other and their families.
This book does an excellent job of exploring women, and women’s choices when it comes to working, family, and their own aspirations and needs. There are different solutions for each of these women and how they find their own work/life balance.
I found this book to be fast-paced, the alternate points of view between the three women made the book a quick, but thoughtful read. The characters were extremely well developed, and I felt a strong connection to each of these women. The author does an excellent job of describing the fears each of these women face, and how they overcome these fears, each in their own way.
I highly recommend this book to everyone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Jesse and Liz Clarke, sisters, along with their best friend Chloe, go out to a casino for a girl’s night out. They decide to live life to the fullest and take on any adventure that comes their way. The next morning, when the fallout of that night becomes shockingly apparent, they find their lives forever changed. This is a story of how these women deal with the consequences of their night out and move on, it’s a story of overcoming fear, and how the fear tests their relationships with each other and their families.
This book does an excellent job of exploring women, and women’s choices when it comes to working, family, and their own aspirations and needs. There are different solutions for each of these women and how they find their own work/life balance.
I found this book to be fast-paced, the alternate points of view between the three women made the book a quick, but thoughtful read. The characters were extremely well developed, and I felt a strong connection to each of these women. The author does an excellent job of describing the fears each of these women face, and how they overcome these fears, each in their own way.
I highly recommend this book to everyone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 21, 2021
Mourning her recent divorce Jess Clarke decides to celebrate her birthday at a casino with her best friend, Chloe, and sister, Liz. While there, she asks the other two women to make a pact to say yes to adventure that night. When they awake the next morning, each woman finds her life turned upside down from decisions the night before. Over the next few months, each of the women must come to terms with the consequences of their decisions and new and unexpected ways their lives change.
Told in alternating first-person perspectives, The Happy Accidents follows Jess, Chloe, and Liz as they each attempt to put their lives back together and make the best choices for their future. The story focuses on the choices women make and how it impacts their relationships and overall happiness.
Liz’s career is in shambles when she is drunkenly caught on camera trashing her cohost on the show, The Morning Dish. When the show fires her she is forced to look critically at her career and her life overall and figure out her next steps. I liked Liz, but she also annoyed me. I found her a bit cold, especially when it came to her sister.
In contrast, Jess, Liz’s sister was my favorite character. I enjoyed her perspective and storyline the most. Her journey towards finding happiness after her divorce intrigued me. I also loved her warm personality and genuine quest to live life to the fullest.
My least favorite storyline was Chloe. I liked Chloe as a character, but her situation frustrated me. After losing $5000 at the casino, Liz’s husband punishes her by canceling their anniversary trip. Determined to find a financial solution, as well as a sense of purpose in her life, Chloe decides to train as a doula. Her husband is less than receptive even though she only plans to work part-time. Every exchange between Chloe and her husband made me so angry. I liked Chloe as a character, and I love how she approached the changes in her life, but I hated her sections.
I liked how The Happy Accidents framed the stories around choices each of the women made and how they deeply impacted their lives going forward. Overall, I liked the story. It had such a positive message and had a lot to say about empathy and self-discovery. I recommend The Happy Accidents to fans of women’s fiction.
Thank you to BookSparks, Montlake, Netgalley, and Jamie Beck for the review copy! All opinions are my own.
Told in alternating first-person perspectives, The Happy Accidents follows Jess, Chloe, and Liz as they each attempt to put their lives back together and make the best choices for their future. The story focuses on the choices women make and how it impacts their relationships and overall happiness.
Liz’s career is in shambles when she is drunkenly caught on camera trashing her cohost on the show, The Morning Dish. When the show fires her she is forced to look critically at her career and her life overall and figure out her next steps. I liked Liz, but she also annoyed me. I found her a bit cold, especially when it came to her sister.
In contrast, Jess, Liz’s sister was my favorite character. I enjoyed her perspective and storyline the most. Her journey towards finding happiness after her divorce intrigued me. I also loved her warm personality and genuine quest to live life to the fullest.
My least favorite storyline was Chloe. I liked Chloe as a character, but her situation frustrated me. After losing $5000 at the casino, Liz’s husband punishes her by canceling their anniversary trip. Determined to find a financial solution, as well as a sense of purpose in her life, Chloe decides to train as a doula. Her husband is less than receptive even though she only plans to work part-time. Every exchange between Chloe and her husband made me so angry. I liked Chloe as a character, and I love how she approached the changes in her life, but I hated her sections.
I liked how The Happy Accidents framed the stories around choices each of the women made and how they deeply impacted their lives going forward. Overall, I liked the story. It had such a positive message and had a lot to say about empathy and self-discovery. I recommend The Happy Accidents to fans of women’s fiction.
Thank you to BookSparks, Montlake, Netgalley, and Jamie Beck for the review copy! All opinions are my own.
September 20, 2021
Jamie Beck writes beautiful novels about women and the challenges they face in their lives and this book is no exception. We meet Jessie, Chloe, and Liz, who get together for a birthday celebration at a casino. Events from that night throw their life in directions they never expected.
I became invested in each character and would get angry at Chloe's husband for not being supportive of her, surprised at how Liz is treated at her job as an online morning show host after a drunk video surfaces, and Jessie's inability to move on after her divorce. However, this book shows the growth that each lady exhibits after handling the situations at hand and the support that they give each other as they venture out on new paths in their lives. I think that there are characters in this book that anyone could relate to and not just the three women. Jessie & Liz's parents are workaholics and seem to expect perfection, or at least their father does from them. There is some resolution to thoughts and events from previous years for each of the sisters that helps to close the circle on any bad thoughts or feelings.
This was a fast read for me but there is so much to take in and I enjoyed every page. We give this book 5 paws up.
I became invested in each character and would get angry at Chloe's husband for not being supportive of her, surprised at how Liz is treated at her job as an online morning show host after a drunk video surfaces, and Jessie's inability to move on after her divorce. However, this book shows the growth that each lady exhibits after handling the situations at hand and the support that they give each other as they venture out on new paths in their lives. I think that there are characters in this book that anyone could relate to and not just the three women. Jessie & Liz's parents are workaholics and seem to expect perfection, or at least their father does from them. There is some resolution to thoughts and events from previous years for each of the sisters that helps to close the circle on any bad thoughts or feelings.
This was a fast read for me but there is so much to take in and I enjoyed every page. We give this book 5 paws up.
October 6, 2021
Three women in their 30’s behaving badly and their life consequences thereafter. I don’t feel that each one redeemed themselves after their mishaps. They come from
money and blame their successful parents for not being there as they were growing up. This is an excuse throughout the story. It’s funny how they fall back into joining the family business after their mishaps caused personal failure. While they are successful, to me, it was just too easy of an out. I felt a lot of “oh woe is me” throughout the book and even clearing the air with people in their lives who were wronged or whatever, just did not appear to be genuine and sympathetic. Suddenly their “mistakes” turned into great opportunities tied up neatly in a bow with happy endings for all.
Wait - What just happened here? 😳 Is there even such a thing as a “happy accident?”
money and blame their successful parents for not being there as they were growing up. This is an excuse throughout the story. It’s funny how they fall back into joining the family business after their mishaps caused personal failure. While they are successful, to me, it was just too easy of an out. I felt a lot of “oh woe is me” throughout the book and even clearing the air with people in their lives who were wronged or whatever, just did not appear to be genuine and sympathetic. Suddenly their “mistakes” turned into great opportunities tied up neatly in a bow with happy endings for all.
Wait - What just happened here? 😳 Is there even such a thing as a “happy accident?”
May 4, 2021
Thank you to the author and #NetGalley for this ARC.
I don't want to start this review out on a sort of sour note, but to me, the first half of the book was a little slow for some reason.
Liz and Jessica are sisters, and Chloe, their friend go to a casino on Jess's almost 37th birthday. Everything changes after that in in their lives, and not for the good. However, good things start to happen and things change for the better for all of them. Big decisions have to be made. Liz was a morning talk show host, who's ranting blew up and there goes her job. Jess, who is a painter, cannot get her groove back and then things really change and then there's Chloe, who's marriage is almost perfect except for her husband who doesn't want her to have a part-time job and does not feel respected.
All in all, an enjoyable book.
I don't want to start this review out on a sort of sour note, but to me, the first half of the book was a little slow for some reason.
Liz and Jessica are sisters, and Chloe, their friend go to a casino on Jess's almost 37th birthday. Everything changes after that in in their lives, and not for the good. However, good things start to happen and things change for the better for all of them. Big decisions have to be made. Liz was a morning talk show host, who's ranting blew up and there goes her job. Jess, who is a painter, cannot get her groove back and then things really change and then there's Chloe, who's marriage is almost perfect except for her husband who doesn't want her to have a part-time job and does not feel respected.
All in all, an enjoyable book.
June 6, 2021
Another solid women's fiction by Beck. I particularly liked how I could relate to each woman in this book. The premise was compelling and the fallout spectacular. I liked that there was a bit of tongue in cheek for the main character Jesse who is adamant in who she is but discovers that life sometimes has its own plans for a person. Chloe was probably the easiest to identify with for stay at home mothers, and Liz, who I found the most challenging character, learns to settle into bing a person she'd never considered before, and finds she finds the perfect fit. I love books that challenge characters' visions of themselves and this book does that. If you're a fan of flawed characters and meant-to-bes, click the buy button. You won't be sorry!
*I received an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
*I received an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
April 21, 2021
First, thank you to Jamie Beck for accepting me into her ARC club and providing me with an advanced copy of The Happy Accidents, as well as thanks to Netgalley.
Wow! What an incredible read! When I first read the blurb for The Happy Accidents, it sounded right up my alley. What could have happened to make three women’s lives change so drastically overnight? I had to know! I’ll admit, it felt a bit slow to start, but I really came to love each of these unique and beautiful women.
Chloe felt the most relatable to myself, as a mother to two young boys with a not always great relationship with their father. I’m also a stay at home mom, and sometimes feel trapped in the way that Chloe felt when it comes to financial decisions. I also have her sense of pride when it comes to her home, her family, and loving on everyone around her. Reading the dialogue between her and everyone around her was like looking into my own life. I truly appreciate an author that can make relatable and real characters like that!
Jess and Liz were a bit less relatable for me, but nevertheless, also real in every sense. I also felt their fears with the problems that came from Jess’s birthday disaster, once again, thanks to the author. She really knows how to write characters that you could imagine in everyday life.
While there isn’t a whole lot of action happening in this book, there are several heart to hearts, musings, and lessons learned. There’s a reason it’s called The Happy Accidents. Be prepared to root for these girls as if they were your own friends.
TW for those who might need it - abortion is discussed.
5/5 stars, and I’m greatly looking forward to the next book by Jamie Beck!
Wow! What an incredible read! When I first read the blurb for The Happy Accidents, it sounded right up my alley. What could have happened to make three women’s lives change so drastically overnight? I had to know! I’ll admit, it felt a bit slow to start, but I really came to love each of these unique and beautiful women.
Chloe felt the most relatable to myself, as a mother to two young boys with a not always great relationship with their father. I’m also a stay at home mom, and sometimes feel trapped in the way that Chloe felt when it comes to financial decisions. I also have her sense of pride when it comes to her home, her family, and loving on everyone around her. Reading the dialogue between her and everyone around her was like looking into my own life. I truly appreciate an author that can make relatable and real characters like that!
Jess and Liz were a bit less relatable for me, but nevertheless, also real in every sense. I also felt their fears with the problems that came from Jess’s birthday disaster, once again, thanks to the author. She really knows how to write characters that you could imagine in everyday life.
While there isn’t a whole lot of action happening in this book, there are several heart to hearts, musings, and lessons learned. There’s a reason it’s called The Happy Accidents. Be prepared to root for these girls as if they were your own friends.
TW for those who might need it - abortion is discussed.
5/5 stars, and I’m greatly looking forward to the next book by Jamie Beck!
January 30, 2022
thanks to @booksparks + @writerjamiebeck for this #frc2021 read!
this is a story of three friends at crossroads in their lives thanks to a catalytic weekend, and it tackles career, marriage, family, identity, change, and so much more as jess, liz, and chloe’s lives play out. i think people who have faced unexpected circumstances that have led to very different life events would find this book relevant and honest, and it was fun to see how different each character’s world was by the end of the book from where they began.
this is a story of three friends at crossroads in their lives thanks to a catalytic weekend, and it tackles career, marriage, family, identity, change, and so much more as jess, liz, and chloe’s lives play out. i think people who have faced unexpected circumstances that have led to very different life events would find this book relevant and honest, and it was fun to see how different each character’s world was by the end of the book from where they began.
June 14, 2022
This was decent on audio although I didn’t like the narrator for Liz at all. Overall the story was interesting with some unrealistic aspects, and I wouldn’t have wanted to use a credit for it in Audible but since it was included in Kindle Unlimited it’s all good.
April 20, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It was told from the perspective of three different women, and I loved getting to know them and seeing the way they dealt with and grew despite the challenges that came from Jess’s birthday pact. While I enjoyed Liz’s storyline the most, I could often see myself in Chloe and even Jess which made the book feel that much better and more relatable.
This was definitely an easy feel-good read that I read through rather quickly in order to see how each woman’s situation turned out.
This was definitely an easy feel-good read that I read through rather quickly in order to see how each woman’s situation turned out.
May 20, 2021
This book is about three women, Jesse, Liz, and Chloe whom have taken a trip to casino for a girl’s night out. What they didn't know would happen in that would night would change their lives. This night will test their friendship and their bravery. Jamie Beck has done it again and never disappoints.
Thank you NetGalley and author for this advance read.
Thank you NetGalley and author for this advance read.
September 14, 2021
The Happy Accidents, is a solid women's fiction that I would strongly recommend to every woman out there. This is a feel good book that will have you feeling compassion and relation to each of these women.
The Happy Accidents, is a story of three women, two sisters and their best friend . After a girls night out at the casino they wake and have to face the aftermath of what has taken place and their lives forever changed. Jesse, Chloe and Liz. All very different women . Jesse is confident and knows who she is, or does she? Chloe, the stay at home mom and Liz, oh, I have no words for Liz. All three of these characters were well developed and flawed, but dont we all have a bit of flaws? That is what made this book so real.
This is a fast paced, compelling novel that faces your fears head on and shows you how differently people face troubling situations.
The Happy Accidents, is a story of three women, two sisters and their best friend . After a girls night out at the casino they wake and have to face the aftermath of what has taken place and their lives forever changed. Jesse, Chloe and Liz. All very different women . Jesse is confident and knows who she is, or does she? Chloe, the stay at home mom and Liz, oh, I have no words for Liz. All three of these characters were well developed and flawed, but dont we all have a bit of flaws? That is what made this book so real.
This is a fast paced, compelling novel that faces your fears head on and shows you how differently people face troubling situations.
January 1, 2022
The complicated lives of three women and friends. Very enjoyable!
September 29, 2021
What a heartfelt little surprise this one turned out to be. I read a lot of thrillers these days and every now and then I need something a bit more straightforward, and this hit the spot. Here we have three very different women (two sisters and their friend) all on different paths in their lives. Jess is a free spirit, an artist, and definitely walks to the beat of her own drum. She is recently divorced from the love of her life because she didn't want to become a mom, which they both agreed to but he changed his mind along the way - and she's reeling from the breakup and possible regret. Then we have her younger sister, Liz. Liz works in the morning tv show industry, but has a very public drunken rant about her unqualified co-host, which derails her career. She is very used to caring about what people think and appearing to have it all. She's at a crossroads and not sure how to move ahead. Lastly, we have Chloe - mother Earth. Amazing mom, loving and supportive wife. However, she is feeling unfulfilled and perhaps a tad restless and resentful. She's ready for a change in her life and to do something for herself, but where is her support? One birthday weekend and life takes a turn for them all - and they get to forge new paths in life.
August 26, 2021
“Go for it” … we’ve all heard someone say it. Have we ever taken the advice? Is the freedom worth it?
Three thirty-something year old women impulsively agree to a “just say yes” adventure pact on a birthday get away weekend. Twelve hours later, Jessie, Liz, and Chloe wake up to the consequences of this pact. As they each deal with the fall out and search for control of their lives, they discover new things about friendship, love and happiness.
Told from the perspective of all three women, The Happy Accidents is an insightful book about how fulfillment and living authentically sometimes comes as a result of struggle and misadventure. Beck explores the hopes and dreams of her characters and shows how difficult it is sometimes for women to strike a balance between work and family. Knowing that readers will be able to relate to at least one of these women and knowing that most of us face a crossroads or unexpected upheaval at some point in our lives, Beck’s book encourages us to examine how often we’ve foregone the fun but risky option in favor of the safe option and lived with regret. A quick read with thought provoking topics, this book has an optimistic outlook that we all need at this stage of pandemic living.
As you turn the final page you’ll question whether these women wrecked their lives or if they simply reinvented them?
Publishes September 21, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Jamie Beck, Montlake, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Three thirty-something year old women impulsively agree to a “just say yes” adventure pact on a birthday get away weekend. Twelve hours later, Jessie, Liz, and Chloe wake up to the consequences of this pact. As they each deal with the fall out and search for control of their lives, they discover new things about friendship, love and happiness.
Told from the perspective of all three women, The Happy Accidents is an insightful book about how fulfillment and living authentically sometimes comes as a result of struggle and misadventure. Beck explores the hopes and dreams of her characters and shows how difficult it is sometimes for women to strike a balance between work and family. Knowing that readers will be able to relate to at least one of these women and knowing that most of us face a crossroads or unexpected upheaval at some point in our lives, Beck’s book encourages us to examine how often we’ve foregone the fun but risky option in favor of the safe option and lived with regret. A quick read with thought provoking topics, this book has an optimistic outlook that we all need at this stage of pandemic living.
As you turn the final page you’ll question whether these women wrecked their lives or if they simply reinvented them?
Publishes September 21, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Jamie Beck, Montlake, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 16, 2021
Awesome Yet Also Problematic. This story is Beck's usual excellence as far as storytelling itself goes. Beck sucks you in with the aftermath of almost a Hangover (movie) type night (though to be clear, not *that* wild) where three women - two sisters and their friend - have made life-changing decisions... and now have to handle the repercussions. We open the story the morning after, and only ever get the high level details of what happened that night - the story is about life *after*. And for two of the three women, Beck does *amazing* work showing that even in screw-ups, good things can happen. The other lady's story is the more problematic one, and it comes from Beck's own unfamiliarity with the growing subculture of the childfree. Seeming without meaning to, Beck confronts this particular issue as much of society at large does... and unwittingly causes many eyes to roll. Having been a part of this community for several years (I'm a 38yo DINK - Dual Income No Kids and happily childfree), know that if you're a part of this community and in particular a woman in it, this storyline is going to make you want to throw this book off the nearest dam or into the nearest bonfire. But don't, because the other two subplots are truly excellent, and even this one is dealt with *some* degree of realism. Overall an excellent book, and let's face it - even with its growing popularity, the life of the childfree isn't exactly dominant yet. Meaning most readers will enjoy all three subplots very much. Very much recommended.
April 23, 2021
“We’re both facing a blank canvas, Let’s make it count.”
Jess and her sister Liz and their friend Chloe celebrate Jess’ 37 birthday.. casino style...when they awake hungover the next morning, horrified and embarrassed over their drunken behavior, They all return home to help begin to clean up their messes… These mistakes ripple deeper than they think not only to those around them but what they resonate inside each of them. When they awake that next morning they have no idea how the consequences are going to change their lives!
I’d like to think we all have part of each of these women… Chloe with her love of family and always putting your family first, Liz career driven and ready to rise above and turn her situation around, And Liz just wanting to live every day to its fullest.
I loved this book and I was all in from the first chapter.
Jess and her sister Liz and their friend Chloe celebrate Jess’ 37 birthday.. casino style...when they awake hungover the next morning, horrified and embarrassed over their drunken behavior, They all return home to help begin to clean up their messes… These mistakes ripple deeper than they think not only to those around them but what they resonate inside each of them. When they awake that next morning they have no idea how the consequences are going to change their lives!
I’d like to think we all have part of each of these women… Chloe with her love of family and always putting your family first, Liz career driven and ready to rise above and turn her situation around, And Liz just wanting to live every day to its fullest.
I loved this book and I was all in from the first chapter.
October 19, 2021
Happy Accidents was like watching a season of This is Us. We follow two sisters and their friend as they all confront the stagnation in their lives. One crazy night, they each make a decision which forces them to reassess their lives: careers, relationships, childhood traumas.
The story examines gender roles, self acceptance and the value of true friendship. It was a nice read with characters who dug deep and made real progress during the novel. I personally didn’t resonate with any of the issues in the novel but I think if I had my rating would be higher.
Thanks to Booksparks for a copy. All opinions above are my own.
The story examines gender roles, self acceptance and the value of true friendship. It was a nice read with characters who dug deep and made real progress during the novel. I personally didn’t resonate with any of the issues in the novel but I think if I had my rating would be higher.
Thanks to Booksparks for a copy. All opinions above are my own.
April 24, 2021
While I did enjoy this book and the topics that each woman had to handle, I really wish there would have been more of a buildup before the casino weekend. More to make you see the characters as themselves before the huge change occurs.
Also, the fact that the parents and husband were all so unbelievably unsupportive seemed so drastic, more so than believable at times. There were moments that the main characters themselves were unlikable to me.
Overall I liked this book and I think it hit upon very interesting topics of life decisions many women face.
Also, the fact that the parents and husband were all so unbelievably unsupportive seemed so drastic, more so than believable at times. There were moments that the main characters themselves were unlikable to me.
Overall I liked this book and I think it hit upon very interesting topics of life decisions many women face.
September 21, 2021
The Happy Accidents is a heartwarming story about three women at a crossroads. Each of them thought they had their lives worked out, with careers and family, but in one weekend all of that changes. I loved watching the three women-Jess, Liz, and Chloe—as they transform their lives into something that brings them fulfillment and joy. Their desires for change are upsetting to those around them, causing ripples as they face numerous challenges. All of their emotions felt real and genuine, and I’m sure readers will find their stories relatable and heart-tugging.
April 23, 2021
While on a girls trip, two sisters and a friend had a “happy accident” that caused each of the to reflect on their life and how this “accident” changed them.
They all faced hard decisions and made some life alterations.
This was an interesting subject and the perservance needed to make the decisions they each made.
It also showed the strength of supportive families.
I thank Jamie Beck for the ARC and the chance to read this great book.
They all faced hard decisions and made some life alterations.
This was an interesting subject and the perservance needed to make the decisions they each made.
It also showed the strength of supportive families.
I thank Jamie Beck for the ARC and the chance to read this great book.
March 23, 2022
The Happy Accidents by author Jamie Beck was about three friends, who made a pact and found themselves dealing with the consequences of that one night when they let go of all their inhibitions.
The story was all about friendship, family, and love. Things that defined us as human beings.
Courageous and inspiring were the two words that came to mind when I thought back about this book.
The positivity in the book and the bonds of friendship had me longing to be a part of these ladies.
Filled with real characters and oodles of emotions all of which I could identify with, the book had that elusive quality that I loved in a women's fiction.
The ability to stay hooked to the story, despite the world moving on its axis.
Best friend, Chloe, needed more pages on the book as I felt the other two got the major share. Chloe was actually stronger than the two as she was managing without life without a safety net. I would have liked to know her more.
Down the book, the women had become my friends, so to see them find their paths in life was inspiring. Hope, tiny bubbles of it, burst through me for myself and my life when I read the book.
The story was all about friendship, family, and love. Things that defined us as human beings.
Courageous and inspiring were the two words that came to mind when I thought back about this book.
The positivity in the book and the bonds of friendship had me longing to be a part of these ladies.
Filled with real characters and oodles of emotions all of which I could identify with, the book had that elusive quality that I loved in a women's fiction.
The ability to stay hooked to the story, despite the world moving on its axis.
Best friend, Chloe, needed more pages on the book as I felt the other two got the major share. Chloe was actually stronger than the two as she was managing without life without a safety net. I would have liked to know her more.
Down the book, the women had become my friends, so to see them find their paths in life was inspiring. Hope, tiny bubbles of it, burst through me for myself and my life when I read the book.
September 20, 2021
The Happy Accidents by Jamie Beck
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Thanks Netgalley for my digital copy. This book will be available 9/21/21.
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When three friends make a pact at a birthday weekend, they all have to face the unexpected consequences. Will they let those consequences make them, or break them, is what they have to figure out.
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I really enjoyed this book! What I liked:
-I loved how different each woman was; Jess was free-spirited, Liz was so structured, and Chloe was a full-time mom. Even though they were so different I found myself so invested in each woman and how she fought her challenges head on!
-I loved the message that I kept picking out from this book. There was lots of open communication, between marriage mates, parents with grown children, and between friends. Also, that people don’t have to be afraid of change and we all grow over time so it’s ok if you feel you need to shake things up and try things a different way.
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4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved Jess, Chloe and Liz’s stories very much and wish there was another epilogue.
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Thanks Netgalley for my digital copy. This book will be available 9/21/21.
.
When three friends make a pact at a birthday weekend, they all have to face the unexpected consequences. Will they let those consequences make them, or break them, is what they have to figure out.
.
I really enjoyed this book! What I liked:
-I loved how different each woman was; Jess was free-spirited, Liz was so structured, and Chloe was a full-time mom. Even though they were so different I found myself so invested in each woman and how she fought her challenges head on!
-I loved the message that I kept picking out from this book. There was lots of open communication, between marriage mates, parents with grown children, and between friends. Also, that people don’t have to be afraid of change and we all grow over time so it’s ok if you feel you need to shake things up and try things a different way.
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4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved Jess, Chloe and Liz’s stories very much and wish there was another epilogue.
October 4, 2021
This book reminded me of the old saying ‘when life gives you lemons, make lemonade’. But in this case sisters Jess and Liz with their friend Chloe went out and picked those lemons straight off the tree themselves. A night out at the casino and a pact to ‘say yes to any adventure that comes their way’ was all it took to knock them out of their well‑worn comfort zones. The way each one found a new balance in life after accidentally upending their old one made this an engaging and relatable story about change and personal growth. I especially liked that it explored several different approaches to the home/family/individual needs/career balancing act with insight and believability.
My thanks to Goodreads Giveaways and the publisher for a digital copy to review.
My thanks to Goodreads Giveaways and the publisher for a digital copy to review.
January 28, 2022
I don't know about this you guys...
I'm about 160 pages in and I'm waiting on things even though I think the "things" I'm waiting on are happening already and I'm a bit just like "eh"
Basically it is 3 women in their 30s that have a, from my viewpoint, a bit of a mishap, that changes the course their lives were headed in. Fair enough, and a pretty realistic take on what could really happen, although I don't think any of the characters really "dug deep" enough or went on this profound quest to find themselves. Money, and having a lot of it, plays a pretty big role in this novel and I found myself rolling my eyes after a few pages and putting it down.
Keep in mind I'm currently reading a Thousand Splendid Suns and I just picked up (and falling in love with) The Keeper of Happy Endings. I'm going to shelf this one for a bit and may go back to it but I wouldn't be surprised if I never did.
I'm about 160 pages in and I'm waiting on things even though I think the "things" I'm waiting on are happening already and I'm a bit just like "eh"
Basically it is 3 women in their 30s that have a, from my viewpoint, a bit of a mishap, that changes the course their lives were headed in. Fair enough, and a pretty realistic take on what could really happen, although I don't think any of the characters really "dug deep" enough or went on this profound quest to find themselves. Money, and having a lot of it, plays a pretty big role in this novel and I found myself rolling my eyes after a few pages and putting it down.
Keep in mind I'm currently reading a Thousand Splendid Suns and I just picked up (and falling in love with) The Keeper of Happy Endings. I'm going to shelf this one for a bit and may go back to it but I wouldn't be surprised if I never did.
September 23, 2021
See the full review & more at HarlequinJunkie
A heartfelt example of women’s fiction done right, The Happy Accidents showcased author Jamie Beck’s clear writing voice and on-point, emotional storytelling ability.
I have to admire an author who can take characters with dissimilar personalities and give them a credible friendship that resonates with readers. And I think our terrific trio: Jess, Liz, and Chloe embodied that quite well. Alternately told from all three of their perspectives, I ended up thinking of them as The Artist, The TV Journalist, and The Supermom, respectively, until I got to know them better as the story played out. Readers will likely have one (or maybe more) character that they can empathize with the most, based on personal experience... Read More
A heartfelt example of women’s fiction done right, The Happy Accidents showcased author Jamie Beck’s clear writing voice and on-point, emotional storytelling ability.
I have to admire an author who can take characters with dissimilar personalities and give them a credible friendship that resonates with readers. And I think our terrific trio: Jess, Liz, and Chloe embodied that quite well. Alternately told from all three of their perspectives, I ended up thinking of them as The Artist, The TV Journalist, and The Supermom, respectively, until I got to know them better as the story played out. Readers will likely have one (or maybe more) character that they can empathize with the most, based on personal experience... Read More
September 28, 2021
I enjoyed this book, which revolves around three women: Chloe, the only married one, and two sisters, Jess, a free-spirited artist, and Liz, a host of a network morning show. After making a pact to be uninhibited, all three make decisions that negatively impact their lives. Without giving anything away, the resulting fallout of their actions and how each woman grows and deals with the impact is the heart of the story.
As a male reader of romance and women’s fiction, I am greatly interested in how men are portrayed in these types of literature. I’m always looking for the romance in women’s fiction books, and the men are portrayed positively in Chloe and Liz’s stories. Chloe’s husband eventually becomes supportive of the “new” Chloe, and Liz finds happiness with a partner in her new business venture. Jess’s experiences are different. There was a split with her long-time husband (I judged neither at fault), but Jess’s later experience with Josh shows him to be an unlikeable character. Thus, I had no problem with how Ms. Beck portrays the male characters.
I heartily recommend this moving story of the personal growth of the three main female characters. An excellent story!
I received an ARC from NetGalley, am voluntarily reviewing the book, and the opinions expressed here are my own. Although I purchased a copy of the book when the book became available, the review is based on the ARC.
As a male reader of romance and women’s fiction, I am greatly interested in how men are portrayed in these types of literature. I’m always looking for the romance in women’s fiction books, and the men are portrayed positively in Chloe and Liz’s stories. Chloe’s husband eventually becomes supportive of the “new” Chloe, and Liz finds happiness with a partner in her new business venture. Jess’s experiences are different. There was a split with her long-time husband (I judged neither at fault), but Jess’s later experience with Josh shows him to be an unlikeable character. Thus, I had no problem with how Ms. Beck portrays the male characters.
I heartily recommend this moving story of the personal growth of the three main female characters. An excellent story!
I received an ARC from NetGalley, am voluntarily reviewing the book, and the opinions expressed here are my own. Although I purchased a copy of the book when the book became available, the review is based on the ARC.
October 4, 2021
It all began with a girl’s night out where Jessie, her sister Liz and her best friend Chloe decide a little fun is in order and where better than a fun filled night at the casino. Choices that were made that night are about to change not only the present but the future as well.
Three woman all at different stages in their lives as one is recently divorced and struggling in her career, one has a successful career that is about to come crashing down and one is a married stay at home mother. Their lives will never be the same as they are forced to re-evaluate every aspect of their lives and discover what will truly make them happy.
The characters are relatable and there are certain to be aspects of their journey that will appeal to everyone in one way or another as they are forced to acknowledge if they are truly happy with their lives or worried about upsetting the status quo.
Three woman all at different stages in their lives as one is recently divorced and struggling in her career, one has a successful career that is about to come crashing down and one is a married stay at home mother. Their lives will never be the same as they are forced to re-evaluate every aspect of their lives and discover what will truly make them happy.
The characters are relatable and there are certain to be aspects of their journey that will appeal to everyone in one way or another as they are forced to acknowledge if they are truly happy with their lives or worried about upsetting the status quo.
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