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Nobody's Perfect
Does your past define your future?
When her daughter was born with cystic fibrosis, Kate Micklethwaite vowed that Daisy would never be defined by the illness. Kate is determined that her perfect little girl will be known for her love of butterflies and croissants and nothing else. Kate does all she can to be the perfect mother - whatever that means - and yet, somehow, has started seeing herself the way others see her: single parent, source of small-town scandal, drop-out, former mistress. Half a family.
When Daisy starts school, Kate meets her new teacher, the kind and charming Mr Spencer Swanson. Now, with more time on her hands Kate can start thinking about her own future. With her Open University dissertation deadline looming, Kate needs to decide what she wants next. But as she and Spencer get to know each other, Kate notices that people are whispering behind her back once more . . .
When her daughter was born with cystic fibrosis, Kate Micklethwaite vowed that Daisy would never be defined by the illness. Kate is determined that her perfect little girl will be known for her love of butterflies and croissants and nothing else. Kate does all she can to be the perfect mother - whatever that means - and yet, somehow, has started seeing herself the way others see her: single parent, source of small-town scandal, drop-out, former mistress. Half a family.
When Daisy starts school, Kate meets her new teacher, the kind and charming Mr Spencer Swanson. Now, with more time on her hands Kate can start thinking about her own future. With her Open University dissertation deadline looming, Kate needs to decide what she wants next. But as she and Spencer get to know each other, Kate notices that people are whispering behind her back once more . . .
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Published August 19, 2021
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176 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Butland
17 books826 followersStephanie Butland is a writer, who is thriving after breast cancer. (She used to say she was a survivor, but that was a bit lacking in joie de vivre.)
Although she’d never have chosen it, her dance with cancer has changed her life in many positive ways. Now she is happier, healthier, and more careful with her precious life and the precious people and things in it.
Her writing career began with her dance with cancer, and now she is a novelist.
Aside from writing, she works as a speaker and trainer, and she works with charities to help raise awareness and money in the hope that cancer will soon be about as scary as a wart.
She lives in Northumberland.
Although she’d never have chosen it, her dance with cancer has changed her life in many positive ways. Now she is happier, healthier, and more careful with her precious life and the precious people and things in it.
Her writing career began with her dance with cancer, and now she is a novelist.
Aside from writing, she works as a speaker and trainer, and she works with charities to help raise awareness and money in the hope that cancer will soon be about as scary as a wart.
She lives in Northumberland.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 25, 2021
Stephanie Butland pens a heartfelt and heartwarming tale in this beautifully written story. Set in a small English town - Throckton - Daisy is born with cystic fibrosis but her mother, Kate Micklethwaite wants her lovely daughter to be known for other things such as her love for butterflies and being strongly independent. Kate is a single mother, who had plans to go to a top Uni and she often wonders if life would have been different if she hadn't met Daisy's father, a married guy who is no longer around. When Daisy starts school Kate meets her teacher, Spencer Swanson and teaching assistant, Wendy Orr.
Kate's protective instincts were contrasted well with her insecurities and low self-esteem. The supporting cast of characters complemented the story wondrously, from Kate's long-time friend Melissa to her mum Richenda. Rich in emotion, there was a perfect mix of humour and sensitivity here, alongside more serious issues. With warmth literally seeping from the pages Nobody's Perfect is an undoubted worthy read.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bonnier Books UK, Zaffre via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Kate's protective instincts were contrasted well with her insecurities and low self-esteem. The supporting cast of characters complemented the story wondrously, from Kate's long-time friend Melissa to her mum Richenda. Rich in emotion, there was a perfect mix of humour and sensitivity here, alongside more serious issues. With warmth literally seeping from the pages Nobody's Perfect is an undoubted worthy read.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bonnier Books UK, Zaffre via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
August 31, 2021
I’ve had a reading slump. Couldn’t get into books, wasn’t enjoying what I was reading.
I enjoyed Stephanie Butland’s The Curious Heart of Ailsa Rae, and I follow Stephanie on Instagram, so I bought this book based on my previous reading. I really enjoyed it.
Kate is a young, single mother to five year old Daisy, five, who has Cystic Fibrosis. She is 24, and is finally able to think about what career path she wants, after having Daisy at 19, and almost completing her degree. She falls for Spencer, a teacher at Daisy’s school. The story is set in a small English town.
Their relationship is wonderful, until some gossiping teachers try to spoil things, risking Spencer’s job and Kate and Spencer’s relationship.
I felt there were a few ableist moments in then book - especially in the first chapter when Kate rejects the term disability (that’s quite othering and perhaps not connecting her child with other disabled people). But then there were some redemptive moments - Kate doing a dissertation on disability representation in the media (I wanted to know about that!); and when she said Daisy should be able to wear a bridesmaids dress without the need to hide her PICC line). There was not the “warrior mum” trope that is so often present with parents of disabled and chronically ill kids, and I was pleased at that.
It was an easy listen.
I enjoyed Stephanie Butland’s The Curious Heart of Ailsa Rae, and I follow Stephanie on Instagram, so I bought this book based on my previous reading. I really enjoyed it.
Kate is a young, single mother to five year old Daisy, five, who has Cystic Fibrosis. She is 24, and is finally able to think about what career path she wants, after having Daisy at 19, and almost completing her degree. She falls for Spencer, a teacher at Daisy’s school. The story is set in a small English town.
Their relationship is wonderful, until some gossiping teachers try to spoil things, risking Spencer’s job and Kate and Spencer’s relationship.
I felt there were a few ableist moments in then book - especially in the first chapter when Kate rejects the term disability (that’s quite othering and perhaps not connecting her child with other disabled people). But then there were some redemptive moments - Kate doing a dissertation on disability representation in the media (I wanted to know about that!); and when she said Daisy should be able to wear a bridesmaids dress without the need to hide her PICC line). There was not the “warrior mum” trope that is so often present with parents of disabled and chronically ill kids, and I was pleased at that.
It was an easy listen.
October 13, 2021
Having read Stephanie’s books before, The Other Half of My Heart and Lost for Words I knew how superbly she constructs her characters and Nobody’s Perfect has that Butland trademark of a character driven story with depth and emotion.
Kate hasn’t had the easiest of times. At only 24 she already has a history that has been the subject of gossip and a five year old daughter Daisy with cystic fibrosis. Kate has to be constantly vigilant – the sole responsibility and worry is exhausting and that doesn’t include the time she has snatched to try and complete an OU degree.
When Kate meets Daisy’s new teacher, Spencer Swanson there is an instant spark – it’s almost like a schoolgirl crush for Kate but Spencer being Daisy’s teacher might cross boundaries and make life extremely difficult and would give the gossips yet another thing to talk about.
Kate is determined that Daisy is not to be defined by her illness but she has her own dreams and wants more from life for herself than just an identity of a single parent and to be gossip fodder. The problem is that without qualifications her options are limited and life with Daisy is all too consuming – she doesn’t really trust anyone other than her mother to look after her and even a rare night away on her own with her best friend Melissa is a major undertaking.
Kate’s loneliness and the challenges of Daisy’s illness came over so clearly. The subject of CF has been included sensitively with the feeling of a subject that had been well researched. I did sense that Kate’s heart overruled her head at times although I also did feel a little sorry for her in having her every decision questioned by those closest to her – it seemed as though she was always going to be judged by past mistakes.
The artisan bakery and cafe, Adventures in Bread made a return from The Other Half of My Heart and the cast of characters – both those at the centre of the story together with those supporting ones – for example teaching assistant Wendy, her girlfriend Jill, and Kate’s best friend Melissa all made their own impact on Kate and Daisy’s lives.
A story of romance, personal challenges and drama, Nobody’s Perfect shows just that. That nobody is perfect and everyone makes mistakes but do people have to continue to pay for them forever. Another excellent read from Stephanie Butland.
Kate hasn’t had the easiest of times. At only 24 she already has a history that has been the subject of gossip and a five year old daughter Daisy with cystic fibrosis. Kate has to be constantly vigilant – the sole responsibility and worry is exhausting and that doesn’t include the time she has snatched to try and complete an OU degree.
When Kate meets Daisy’s new teacher, Spencer Swanson there is an instant spark – it’s almost like a schoolgirl crush for Kate but Spencer being Daisy’s teacher might cross boundaries and make life extremely difficult and would give the gossips yet another thing to talk about.
Kate is determined that Daisy is not to be defined by her illness but she has her own dreams and wants more from life for herself than just an identity of a single parent and to be gossip fodder. The problem is that without qualifications her options are limited and life with Daisy is all too consuming – she doesn’t really trust anyone other than her mother to look after her and even a rare night away on her own with her best friend Melissa is a major undertaking.
Kate’s loneliness and the challenges of Daisy’s illness came over so clearly. The subject of CF has been included sensitively with the feeling of a subject that had been well researched. I did sense that Kate’s heart overruled her head at times although I also did feel a little sorry for her in having her every decision questioned by those closest to her – it seemed as though she was always going to be judged by past mistakes.
The artisan bakery and cafe, Adventures in Bread made a return from The Other Half of My Heart and the cast of characters – both those at the centre of the story together with those supporting ones – for example teaching assistant Wendy, her girlfriend Jill, and Kate’s best friend Melissa all made their own impact on Kate and Daisy’s lives.
A story of romance, personal challenges and drama, Nobody’s Perfect shows just that. That nobody is perfect and everyone makes mistakes but do people have to continue to pay for them forever. Another excellent read from Stephanie Butland.
August 17, 2021
Young mother Kate’s life is entirely centred on her daughter Daisy – cystic fibrosis makes her desperately vulnerable, and she needs to be constantly alert to the many threats and the measures that are needed to keep her safe, to be the perfect mother. Daisy is far from defined by her illness, vibrant and enchanting, passionate about butterflies and bouncing on trampolines – and the love between mother and daughter is palpable. Kate has always been an outsider in the village of Throckton, the scandal surrounding Daisy’s birth having drawn her to people’s attention (with a nice link to one of the author’s earlier books – a particular treat for me, but recognising that isn’t essential) – but she has the support she needs from her caring mother who is happy to bounce on the trampoline with Daisy and look after her when she needs to, but who also sometimes rather uncomfortably becomes the voice of Kate’s conscience.
When Spencer comes into their lives, he almost seems too good to be true – a teacher at Daisy’s school, he really seems to understand and to be happy to accept the limitations on their lives, and it looks as if Kate is finally destined for some happiness of her own. But there are challenges – the muttering about the inappropriateness of the relationship, the possibility that Kate’s focus on her daughter could slip a little, and that ever present question mark over whether she’s right to let him into their lives and if he can possibly be quite as perfect as he seems.
This was a book I really loved – I sat down to read it one afternoon, and barely moved until I’d read the last page. It first draws you into the lives of mother and daughter, helping you understand the extreme level of vigilance needed to care for such a special child – and then there’s the sheer joy of the romance growing from an initial spark of attraction, the chance of being a complete family at last. The pace of the book is steady, though with moments of particular drama – and the emotional impact exceptional, with moments that pierce you to the heart.
The characterisation is simply superb – I instantly loved both Kate and Daisy, but there’s also a really well-drawn supporting cast (with a special mention for teaching assistant Wendy, a character with particular warmth, whose personal life adds a further interesting dimension to the story – and best friend Melissa, who provides some of the fun but also a vision of the different life Kate could have had).
I knew lamentably little about the reality of living with cystic fibrosis, and I learned a lot – the author’s research is amply clear, and the way she uses it makes you painfully aware of the way it becomes the focus of every waking moment. I knew nothing about the need to maximise the intake of food, the drug regime, the need for exercise, the vulnerability to infection – or the way caring for a child with such challenges entirely takes over your life. But I can’t stress enough that the book never concentrates on the misery – there are plenty of moments of lightness and joy, lots of well-judged humour, the developing romance makes your heart sing, and the relationship between Kate and Daisy has a warmth that radiates from the book’s pages. When Kate hurts, I ached too – the writing really is exceptional. And the book’s title is completely right – none of us is perfect, however hard we try to be, but just sometimes doing the best we can manage is enough.
I loved every moment of this book – one that’ll stay with me for some time, and highly recommended to all.
When Spencer comes into their lives, he almost seems too good to be true – a teacher at Daisy’s school, he really seems to understand and to be happy to accept the limitations on their lives, and it looks as if Kate is finally destined for some happiness of her own. But there are challenges – the muttering about the inappropriateness of the relationship, the possibility that Kate’s focus on her daughter could slip a little, and that ever present question mark over whether she’s right to let him into their lives and if he can possibly be quite as perfect as he seems.
This was a book I really loved – I sat down to read it one afternoon, and barely moved until I’d read the last page. It first draws you into the lives of mother and daughter, helping you understand the extreme level of vigilance needed to care for such a special child – and then there’s the sheer joy of the romance growing from an initial spark of attraction, the chance of being a complete family at last. The pace of the book is steady, though with moments of particular drama – and the emotional impact exceptional, with moments that pierce you to the heart.
The characterisation is simply superb – I instantly loved both Kate and Daisy, but there’s also a really well-drawn supporting cast (with a special mention for teaching assistant Wendy, a character with particular warmth, whose personal life adds a further interesting dimension to the story – and best friend Melissa, who provides some of the fun but also a vision of the different life Kate could have had).
I knew lamentably little about the reality of living with cystic fibrosis, and I learned a lot – the author’s research is amply clear, and the way she uses it makes you painfully aware of the way it becomes the focus of every waking moment. I knew nothing about the need to maximise the intake of food, the drug regime, the need for exercise, the vulnerability to infection – or the way caring for a child with such challenges entirely takes over your life. But I can’t stress enough that the book never concentrates on the misery – there are plenty of moments of lightness and joy, lots of well-judged humour, the developing romance makes your heart sing, and the relationship between Kate and Daisy has a warmth that radiates from the book’s pages. When Kate hurts, I ached too – the writing really is exceptional. And the book’s title is completely right – none of us is perfect, however hard we try to be, but just sometimes doing the best we can manage is enough.
I loved every moment of this book – one that’ll stay with me for some time, and highly recommended to all.
August 20, 2021
This is the story of young single mother Kate, who is trying valiantly to keep all those plates spinning. Her life revolves around her daughter Daisy, who has cystic fibrosis, and she barely has time to think about herself and the dreams she used to have - although she sometimes catches herself reflecting on what might have been. One thing Kate is sure about is that Daisy will never be defined by her condition, instead she will do everything in her power to ensure she is known as the perfect little, butterfly-loving girl that she knows her to be.
When Daisy starts primary school, Kate suddenly feels a little at sea. Instead of the freedom to concentrate on her own needs for a change, she is struggling with finishing her Open University degree studies and to decide what comes next - it doesn't help that she finds Daisy's new teacher, Spencer Swanson, mighty attractive and she is unsure what to do with these feelings. Wary that her reputation as a home breaker among the village gossips proceeds her, they don't get off to the best start, but soon a budding romance develops between them - a relationship that only provides more fodder for the tongue-waggers at the school gate. Does Kate's past have to define her future happiness?
Nobody's Perfect is a complicated romance story, full of emotional themes that explore truth, reputation, and how the way others see us affects how we see ourselves - and along the way Stephanie Butland brings in threads touching on motherhood, acceptance, and the perception of disabilities.
I must admit that I did find Kate quite a tricky character, and found myself speculating quite how much this was intentional, or whether it was simply my impression of her. She is emotionally immature, which is not surprising given her history despite the weight of her responsibilities, and the way she is torn between the life she has now and that she once thought could be hers is very well drawn, but there is a streak of self-righteousness in her that I found very annoying. At times, I wanted to shake her for her lack of self-awareness, especially since it takes her a long time to realise that indeed nobody is perfect, including herself.
However, Butland gives some great insight into some very relatable situations in these pages, that really make the story engaging. The way she describes the state of constant fear that comes with living with a child suffering a condition like cystic fibrosis is beautifully done, and the delicious look as the pecking order, cliqueiness and grapevine of the mothers outside the school gates has something that all of us who have had children will find horribly familiar - and there are some little gems for anyone knows how gossip spreads in a staffroom. There are also some lovely characters, especially the glorious Wendy and Jilly!
I suspect this may be one that divides the crowd depending on which stage of your life you find yourself at, and this is probably why I found the more mature characters more sympathetic than those of more tender years. I leave you to decide for yourselves. In any case there is a lot to enjoy and many aspects of the nature of relationships to ponder, which would make this a fine choice for a book group.
When Daisy starts primary school, Kate suddenly feels a little at sea. Instead of the freedom to concentrate on her own needs for a change, she is struggling with finishing her Open University degree studies and to decide what comes next - it doesn't help that she finds Daisy's new teacher, Spencer Swanson, mighty attractive and she is unsure what to do with these feelings. Wary that her reputation as a home breaker among the village gossips proceeds her, they don't get off to the best start, but soon a budding romance develops between them - a relationship that only provides more fodder for the tongue-waggers at the school gate. Does Kate's past have to define her future happiness?
Nobody's Perfect is a complicated romance story, full of emotional themes that explore truth, reputation, and how the way others see us affects how we see ourselves - and along the way Stephanie Butland brings in threads touching on motherhood, acceptance, and the perception of disabilities.
I must admit that I did find Kate quite a tricky character, and found myself speculating quite how much this was intentional, or whether it was simply my impression of her. She is emotionally immature, which is not surprising given her history despite the weight of her responsibilities, and the way she is torn between the life she has now and that she once thought could be hers is very well drawn, but there is a streak of self-righteousness in her that I found very annoying. At times, I wanted to shake her for her lack of self-awareness, especially since it takes her a long time to realise that indeed nobody is perfect, including herself.
However, Butland gives some great insight into some very relatable situations in these pages, that really make the story engaging. The way she describes the state of constant fear that comes with living with a child suffering a condition like cystic fibrosis is beautifully done, and the delicious look as the pecking order, cliqueiness and grapevine of the mothers outside the school gates has something that all of us who have had children will find horribly familiar - and there are some little gems for anyone knows how gossip spreads in a staffroom. There are also some lovely characters, especially the glorious Wendy and Jilly!
I suspect this may be one that divides the crowd depending on which stage of your life you find yourself at, and this is probably why I found the more mature characters more sympathetic than those of more tender years. I leave you to decide for yourselves. In any case there is a lot to enjoy and many aspects of the nature of relationships to ponder, which would make this a fine choice for a book group.
August 18, 2021
Stephanie Butland is such a skilled author. I've been enjoying her books for a few years now and have such admiration for just how different each of her novels are.
Kate Micklethwaite is a young single mother who never feels as she is quite good enough. She's long been the subject of small town gossip, going from the studious, intelligent girl who was expected to go to a top University, to a single mother of a child with cystic fibrosis, whose father is no longer on the scene.
Kate is determined that daughter Daisy will have the best possible life, dedicating her life to ensuring that she gets enough calories, that she doesn't pick up an infection and that she will never be defined by her illness.
As Daisy is about to start school, Kate goes to meet her teachers and feels a spark that surprises her. Spencer Swanson is new to the school, and the subject of gossip too. Kate finds herself thinking of him a great deal, and struggles to deal with her feelings. She's completing her Open University degree, and has plans for the future, but sometimes plans don't quite go to plan.
It is so easy to lose yourself in Kate and Daisy's world for these characters are perfectly drawn. The fierce love and protective instinct that Kate shows for Daisy is balanced out by her doubts about her own worth. She's not perfect at all, she has regrets, she often wonders what life would have been like if she hadn't become pregnant, but she's oh so real and relatable.
Nobody's Perfect is a novel that teaches the reader, the sensitive way in which the author deals with having a child with a chronic illness is a joy to behold. She doesn't sugar coat this, but the absolute love that shines through is palpable.
The supporting cast of characters wonderfully compliment the story, from Kate's long-time friend Melissa, to her wonderful mother and of course, Spencer Swanson. There is such a perfect mix of warm, humour and sensitivity here, coupled with more serious issues and lessons to be learned.
Heartfelt and heart warming. Recommended by me.
Kate Micklethwaite is a young single mother who never feels as she is quite good enough. She's long been the subject of small town gossip, going from the studious, intelligent girl who was expected to go to a top University, to a single mother of a child with cystic fibrosis, whose father is no longer on the scene.
Kate is determined that daughter Daisy will have the best possible life, dedicating her life to ensuring that she gets enough calories, that she doesn't pick up an infection and that she will never be defined by her illness.
As Daisy is about to start school, Kate goes to meet her teachers and feels a spark that surprises her. Spencer Swanson is new to the school, and the subject of gossip too. Kate finds herself thinking of him a great deal, and struggles to deal with her feelings. She's completing her Open University degree, and has plans for the future, but sometimes plans don't quite go to plan.
It is so easy to lose yourself in Kate and Daisy's world for these characters are perfectly drawn. The fierce love and protective instinct that Kate shows for Daisy is balanced out by her doubts about her own worth. She's not perfect at all, she has regrets, she often wonders what life would have been like if she hadn't become pregnant, but she's oh so real and relatable.
Nobody's Perfect is a novel that teaches the reader, the sensitive way in which the author deals with having a child with a chronic illness is a joy to behold. She doesn't sugar coat this, but the absolute love that shines through is palpable.
The supporting cast of characters wonderfully compliment the story, from Kate's long-time friend Melissa, to her wonderful mother and of course, Spencer Swanson. There is such a perfect mix of warm, humour and sensitivity here, coupled with more serious issues and lessons to be learned.
Heartfelt and heart warming. Recommended by me.
August 24, 2021
I planned to read Nobody's Perfect over four days but I ended up read it in two sittings as I couldn't put it down. It just shows that a book doesn't have to be a thriller to be gripping. In mother and daughter pairing Kate and five-year-old Daisy, Stephanie Butland has created loveable and believable characters whose story I felt emotionally invested in.
Kate is a single parent after an affair with a married man caused tongues to wag in her home town. Although Kate may be an outcast, the positive result of her affair is adorable Daisy and I absolutely loved her. Daisy is so vibrant as she flutters to school wearing her butterfly wings, but beneath the surface a deadly illness looms. Daisy has cystic fibrosis which means that any threat to her respiratory system could see her ending up in hospital.
Kate is a brilliant mum and I love how she tries to make Daisy's life as normal as possible but has a constant eye out for anything that can be harmful. It's very thought-provoking to think that something like the common cold might be a bit of a nuisance to you or me but to others it can have serious repercussions. Daisy is Kate's whole life but a new teacher at the school reignites Kate's passion and she has a chance to be Kate again, rather than 100% mum. Mr Swanson does seem perfect but as the book title tells us, Nobody's Perfect.
Stephanie Butland's writing is beautiful and her characters are so well-developed that they virtually leap out from the page. I felt every beat of Kate's heart as her love for Daisy shone through every wonderful word and I had my fingers crossed as her relationship with Spencer blossomed. With so much to find out about each other, it was interesting to see how they both tackled a new relationship. Kate is very much all in with all her secrets laid bare but Spencer is clearly keeping something back and you can't help but wonder whether his intentions are honourable.
Beautiful, heartwarming and thought-provoking, Nobody's Perfect is a stunning novel and one I will never forget. It's a wonderful contemporary romance and very highly recommended.
I received a digital ARC to read and review for the blog tour and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Kate is a single parent after an affair with a married man caused tongues to wag in her home town. Although Kate may be an outcast, the positive result of her affair is adorable Daisy and I absolutely loved her. Daisy is so vibrant as she flutters to school wearing her butterfly wings, but beneath the surface a deadly illness looms. Daisy has cystic fibrosis which means that any threat to her respiratory system could see her ending up in hospital.
Kate is a brilliant mum and I love how she tries to make Daisy's life as normal as possible but has a constant eye out for anything that can be harmful. It's very thought-provoking to think that something like the common cold might be a bit of a nuisance to you or me but to others it can have serious repercussions. Daisy is Kate's whole life but a new teacher at the school reignites Kate's passion and she has a chance to be Kate again, rather than 100% mum. Mr Swanson does seem perfect but as the book title tells us, Nobody's Perfect.
Stephanie Butland's writing is beautiful and her characters are so well-developed that they virtually leap out from the page. I felt every beat of Kate's heart as her love for Daisy shone through every wonderful word and I had my fingers crossed as her relationship with Spencer blossomed. With so much to find out about each other, it was interesting to see how they both tackled a new relationship. Kate is very much all in with all her secrets laid bare but Spencer is clearly keeping something back and you can't help but wonder whether his intentions are honourable.
Beautiful, heartwarming and thought-provoking, Nobody's Perfect is a stunning novel and one I will never forget. It's a wonderful contemporary romance and very highly recommended.
I received a digital ARC to read and review for the blog tour and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 24, 2021
I am a big fan of Stephanie Butland’s beautiful writing and Nobody’s Perfect, her latest novel, definitely did not disappoint. If you have read her first novel, Letters to My Husband, you will quickly spot the connection between the books but don’t worry if you haven’t. Nobody’s Perfect is a completely standalone novel. It’s the story of Kate, who becomes a mother at a very young age and under something of a cloud of scandal. Her daughter, Daisy, has cystic fibrosis but Kate is determined that although this is a very significant part of her life, it should not be the defining thing about Daisy. When Daisy starts school and Kate starts to get close to her teacher, Spencer Swanson, tongues start wagging again.
This is such a moving and compelling read. The love and bond between mother and daughter was beautiful to read about. I learned a lot about living with cystic fibrosis as a result of this book. The author has clearly done her research but it never feels like you are being educated at the expense of the rest of the story. Kate’s daily routines and constant worries about Daisy are a naturally flowing part of the narrative. Daisy is such a sweet child and I loved her innocent way at looking at the world, which was portrayed so well.
Being such a young mother and then learning to cope with a child with a challenging medical condition means that Kate’s life has not gone the way she expected. She had wonderful support from her mother who is never judgemental but does encourage Kate to carefully consider her decisions. Her best friend Melissa is also supportive and encouraging, although more at the end of the phone since she is living what might be a more conventional life for a woman in her twenties. The developing relationship between Kate and Spencer and the issues it raises is sensitively explored.
I adored this book. It comes very close to equalling Lost for Words as my favourite Stephanie Butland book and, trust me, that is high praise! Nobody’s Perfect is a beautiful and moving story about how sometimes doing your best is enough, that you don’t have to be perfect.
This is such a moving and compelling read. The love and bond between mother and daughter was beautiful to read about. I learned a lot about living with cystic fibrosis as a result of this book. The author has clearly done her research but it never feels like you are being educated at the expense of the rest of the story. Kate’s daily routines and constant worries about Daisy are a naturally flowing part of the narrative. Daisy is such a sweet child and I loved her innocent way at looking at the world, which was portrayed so well.
Being such a young mother and then learning to cope with a child with a challenging medical condition means that Kate’s life has not gone the way she expected. She had wonderful support from her mother who is never judgemental but does encourage Kate to carefully consider her decisions. Her best friend Melissa is also supportive and encouraging, although more at the end of the phone since she is living what might be a more conventional life for a woman in her twenties. The developing relationship between Kate and Spencer and the issues it raises is sensitively explored.
I adored this book. It comes very close to equalling Lost for Words as my favourite Stephanie Butland book and, trust me, that is high praise! Nobody’s Perfect is a beautiful and moving story about how sometimes doing your best is enough, that you don’t have to be perfect.
August 22, 2021
An escapist cwtch of a book
I love Stephanie Butland’s writing, it is always clear that she has a total grasp of her character’s personalities, their background and what makes them tick. The result is a confident novel full of excellent and realistic characters who you want to learn more about.
From very early on in the novel I was rooting for Kate, a young single mother of Daisy, a girl with cystic fibrosis. The authour has done extensive research into cystic fibrosis and she writes with confidence about Daisy’s daily struggles and the impact this has on the people who surround her.
There was potential for this book to become depressing due to the heavy subject matter, but it isn’t at all, it’s a beautiful soft read, reminding the reader about the nuances of life and how we are more than a medical diagnosis. None of us are perfect in reality and the pursuit of perfection can be a dangerous thing.
Kate and Daisy are supported through their days by a number of supporting characters who are equally believable. Richenda, Kate’s mum has been on her own journey of development after divorcing Kate’s father, her life has blossomed and we learn how happier she has become with her new husband Blake. Melissa, Kate’s school friend who is away at university give us an insight to an alternative reality that Kate could have enjoyed if she had gone to university.
Kate develops a relationship with Daisy’s teacher Spencer and it is this relationship, alongside Daisy’s illness and the resulting rollercoasters that keep the readers turning the pages. Kate had been dealt a difficult hand, I felt for her, I wanted to be her friend and for her life to get easier. We watch her develop and blossom as the narrative goes on and this is a delight.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story with a proper beginning, middle and end, with characters that you can empathise with and a story that makes you smile and feel warm and fuzzy inside.
I love Stephanie Butland’s writing, it is always clear that she has a total grasp of her character’s personalities, their background and what makes them tick. The result is a confident novel full of excellent and realistic characters who you want to learn more about.
From very early on in the novel I was rooting for Kate, a young single mother of Daisy, a girl with cystic fibrosis. The authour has done extensive research into cystic fibrosis and she writes with confidence about Daisy’s daily struggles and the impact this has on the people who surround her.
There was potential for this book to become depressing due to the heavy subject matter, but it isn’t at all, it’s a beautiful soft read, reminding the reader about the nuances of life and how we are more than a medical diagnosis. None of us are perfect in reality and the pursuit of perfection can be a dangerous thing.
Kate and Daisy are supported through their days by a number of supporting characters who are equally believable. Richenda, Kate’s mum has been on her own journey of development after divorcing Kate’s father, her life has blossomed and we learn how happier she has become with her new husband Blake. Melissa, Kate’s school friend who is away at university give us an insight to an alternative reality that Kate could have enjoyed if she had gone to university.
Kate develops a relationship with Daisy’s teacher Spencer and it is this relationship, alongside Daisy’s illness and the resulting rollercoasters that keep the readers turning the pages. Kate had been dealt a difficult hand, I felt for her, I wanted to be her friend and for her life to get easier. We watch her develop and blossom as the narrative goes on and this is a delight.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story with a proper beginning, middle and end, with characters that you can empathise with and a story that makes you smile and feel warm and fuzzy inside.
August 21, 2021
Oh wow, I took this book on holiday with me and instantly lost myself between the pages as met Kate and Daisy and got to meet their daily battles.
Daisy was born with cystic fibrosis when Kate was just 19 and since then everything in Kate's life has dramatically changed as it is now all about keeping Daisy healthy. A story that provides insight into how cystic fibrosis can cause so many complications within a tiny body and highlighting how this is not the definition of who the person is just a part of them.
This story is so heartwarming, at times it breaks your heart in two but then heals it again as Kate & Daisy continue to make memories and deal with the normal highs and lows of being five. There is a wonderful assortment of characters in this book emphasising that it takes a village to raise a child and to accept the help and support where it is available to ensure you feel less alone.
A great story that I raced through and felt so much empathy for the characters and was disappointed to reach the end.
Daisy was born with cystic fibrosis when Kate was just 19 and since then everything in Kate's life has dramatically changed as it is now all about keeping Daisy healthy. A story that provides insight into how cystic fibrosis can cause so many complications within a tiny body and highlighting how this is not the definition of who the person is just a part of them.
This story is so heartwarming, at times it breaks your heart in two but then heals it again as Kate & Daisy continue to make memories and deal with the normal highs and lows of being five. There is a wonderful assortment of characters in this book emphasising that it takes a village to raise a child and to accept the help and support where it is available to ensure you feel less alone.
A great story that I raced through and felt so much empathy for the characters and was disappointed to reach the end.
August 22, 2021
This is an easy page turner with a compelling story that looks into the life of a woman who struggles to maintain her own identity and move forward with her own life while caring for her daughter that depends on her completely and reminds her of past regrets and trauma.
One can easily empathise with Kate’s position and the struggles she faces on a daily basis. Themes of motherhood, caring for a disabled child, social standing, parent/teacher relationships are explored in a sensitive way in this narrative. This story could have turned quite depressing but Butland’s storytelling is gentle and feels hopeful.
A heartwarming story that demonstrates that a past life does not determine the future and there’s hope and possibility to change one’s fortune.
One can easily empathise with Kate’s position and the struggles she faces on a daily basis. Themes of motherhood, caring for a disabled child, social standing, parent/teacher relationships are explored in a sensitive way in this narrative. This story could have turned quite depressing but Butland’s storytelling is gentle and feels hopeful.
A heartwarming story that demonstrates that a past life does not determine the future and there’s hope and possibility to change one’s fortune.
October 27, 2025
I liked this book very much. The characters are interesting and believable, and there's a delightful five-year-old, Daisy, who has cystic fibrosis. The book is about her first year at school, and how her mother starts to deal with this.
It's also a gentle romance between two thoroughly likeable people, although - unsurprisingly - there's a rift which separates them for a while. It's about family solidarity, and friendships, and about what it means to be independent, while still relying on the love and care of others.
Recommended if you like women's fiction with a few added contemporary issues.
Longer review: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/...
It's also a gentle romance between two thoroughly likeable people, although - unsurprisingly - there's a rift which separates them for a while. It's about family solidarity, and friendships, and about what it means to be independent, while still relying on the love and care of others.
Recommended if you like women's fiction with a few added contemporary issues.
Longer review: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/...
September 5, 2021
I love jodi picoult books and so when I read the synopsis for this book I knew it was a must read for me....once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. Its a thought provoking read and I learnt so much from this book, tears did come to my eyes!
September 28, 2021
3.5 - enjoyable but predictable
October 15, 2021
Kate Micklethwaite is a single mum to beautiful five year old Daisy who has cystic fibrosis. She’s determined that her daughter should lead as fulfilling life as possible despite the challenges her condition provides. Kate herself had big ambitions when she was younger. Due to study at Oxford, she fell pregnant and couldn’t go, the father being a married man at the time and dying before Daisy was born. Kate had to suffer the gossip and being such a young mother to a baby who needed more care than she was expecting, she grew up quickly, putting her own dreams on hold.
When Daisy starts school and Kate meets her teacher, Mr Swanson, she is instantly drawn to him and she begins a relationship with him after years of being on her own. But things aren’t plain sailing and eventually she has to face the gossips once more.
This book is just gorgeous. The characters are so likeable - Daisy is wonderful and I admired Kate’s strength and the way she was bringing up Daisy. It’s an emotional read at times, and I was rooting for Kate so much with her Open University degree and relationship after years of being alone. The way she does everything she can to make sure Daisy is living a full life is heartwarming and the lovely way it’s written make this book about hope as well as hardship, family and resilience. Kate has a fantastic support network and I loved them all - Melissa, Richenda and Wendy. I loved this book and got lost in its pages quickly, leaving me with a warm and fuzzy feeling long after I’d finished!
When Daisy starts school and Kate meets her teacher, Mr Swanson, she is instantly drawn to him and she begins a relationship with him after years of being on her own. But things aren’t plain sailing and eventually she has to face the gossips once more.
This book is just gorgeous. The characters are so likeable - Daisy is wonderful and I admired Kate’s strength and the way she was bringing up Daisy. It’s an emotional read at times, and I was rooting for Kate so much with her Open University degree and relationship after years of being alone. The way she does everything she can to make sure Daisy is living a full life is heartwarming and the lovely way it’s written make this book about hope as well as hardship, family and resilience. Kate has a fantastic support network and I loved them all - Melissa, Richenda and Wendy. I loved this book and got lost in its pages quickly, leaving me with a warm and fuzzy feeling long after I’d finished!
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September 10, 2023
Well written light read with good insight into parenting a child with additional needs
June 8, 2022
Nice, easy read. Nothing ground breaking. Some depth to the characters which was interesting.
July 29, 2021
After a rocky start to motherhood in her teens, Kate is determined to be the perfect mother to Daisy, an impossible task for everyone but made more difficult since Daisy has cystic fibrosis and requires vigilance and care no one fully understands except those close to her. This romantic novel gives an eye opening insight into the world of CF while it tells the story of Kate trying to find her place when life is changing and Spencer arrives in her life. It's a gentle book with depth, emotion and showcases the strength, resilience and love families dealing with chronic illness need to get through when even on the brightest days, its lurking ready to strike at any moment.
Nobody's perfect has a different feel to Stephanie Butland's previous book, Woman in the Photograph but will also be one I will not forget.
Nobody's perfect has a different feel to Stephanie Butland's previous book, Woman in the Photograph but will also be one I will not forget.
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