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Em & Me
You can't change your past
But what comes next is up to you
That’s what life turns on, isn’t it? The choices and moments that change everything
Once upon a time, Delphine Jones had big dreams. Clever, beautiful and ambitious, she was going to get an education, travel the world, make her mark. But somewhere along the line, it all went wrong… Now Delphine is a struggling single mum, serving coffee for a living, fishing coins out the back of the sofa to make ends meet. All she wants is a safe place for her and her daughter Em, yet nothing she does makes a difference.
But there is one thing she never gave up: hope.
When a brief reprieve from her daily grind forces her to look outwards, she begins to remember who she is and what she’s capable of. Her world opens up, offering new opportunities, adventures – even love – if only she can put the past behind her.
Can hope bloom into something more for Delphine and Em?
But what comes next is up to you
That’s what life turns on, isn’t it? The choices and moments that change everything
Once upon a time, Delphine Jones had big dreams. Clever, beautiful and ambitious, she was going to get an education, travel the world, make her mark. But somewhere along the line, it all went wrong… Now Delphine is a struggling single mum, serving coffee for a living, fishing coins out the back of the sofa to make ends meet. All she wants is a safe place for her and her daughter Em, yet nothing she does makes a difference.
But there is one thing she never gave up: hope.
When a brief reprieve from her daily grind forces her to look outwards, she begins to remember who she is and what she’s capable of. Her world opens up, offering new opportunities, adventures – even love – if only she can put the past behind her.
Can hope bloom into something more for Delphine and Em?
387 pages, Paperback
First published February 3, 2022
105 people are currently reading
2936 people want to read
About the author
Beth Morrey
10 books384 followersBeth Morrey was inspired to write her debut novel, Saving Missy, while pushing a pram around her local park during maternity leave. Getting to know the community of dog owners, joggers, neighbours and families, she began to sow the seeds of a novel about a woman saved by the people around her, strangers who became friends. Previously Creative Director at RDF Television, Beth now writes full time. She was previously shortlisted for the Grazia-Orange First Chapter award, and had her work published in the Cambridge and Oxford May Anthologies while at university. Beth lives in London with her husband, two sons and a dog named Polly.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews
November 20, 2022
Rounded up from roughly 3.5 stars ⭐️
Em & Me follows single mother Delphine as she works to find a place in the world for herself and her daughter, Em. But the past and present collide, making it hard for her to keep things together. Will her previous mistakes come back to haunt her?
I absolutely loved the author’s debut and was so excited that they had brought out another book! This gave me the exact same emotional punch that I loved so much in the first book. Towards the end of the book I found myself feeling a little teary. I love how Beth is able to pull on my heartstrings with her books. I also loved the diversity of cultures within this novel. I truly felt like I was tasting new dishes and experiencing new places. It all felt so vivid, I just wanted to jump into the book and join Delphine.
My biggest gripe with this book is that consent, and not being able to give it, is completely glossed over. It is such an incredibly important topic and the way it was handled made me feel really uncomfortable. It almost felt like the victim was not only blaming themselves, but being blamed by others too, and that was deemed to be fine. It just did not sit well with me and made me knock off some stars. That being said, I loved the message that you can go for what you want no matter what your age. Delphine’s fight to get the best life for herself and her daughter made me feel so empowered. I really resonated with the message that it’s never too late to achieve your dreams. I felt myself cheering Delphine on!
I would recommend this book to fans of easy reads with an emotional background.
Em & Me follows single mother Delphine as she works to find a place in the world for herself and her daughter, Em. But the past and present collide, making it hard for her to keep things together. Will her previous mistakes come back to haunt her?
I absolutely loved the author’s debut and was so excited that they had brought out another book! This gave me the exact same emotional punch that I loved so much in the first book. Towards the end of the book I found myself feeling a little teary. I love how Beth is able to pull on my heartstrings with her books. I also loved the diversity of cultures within this novel. I truly felt like I was tasting new dishes and experiencing new places. It all felt so vivid, I just wanted to jump into the book and join Delphine.
My biggest gripe with this book is that consent, and not being able to give it, is completely glossed over. It is such an incredibly important topic and the way it was handled made me feel really uncomfortable. It almost felt like the victim was not only blaming themselves, but being blamed by others too, and that was deemed to be fine. It just did not sit well with me and made me knock off some stars. That being said, I loved the message that you can go for what you want no matter what your age. Delphine’s fight to get the best life for herself and her daughter made me feel so empowered. I really resonated with the message that it’s never too late to achieve your dreams. I felt myself cheering Delphine on!
I would recommend this book to fans of easy reads with an emotional background.
May 3, 2022
Delphine Jones Takes a Chance by 2022 G.P. Putnam’s Sons publication.
Delphine is a single mom to Emma, a brilliant, advanced child, while living with and caring for her father, and working as a barista. Her life is in a rut, but an ugly encounter with a former classmate shakes Delphine out of her stupor and opens new doors and fresh opportunities for her, if she is willing to grasp them…
I really enjoyed this novel. Delphine lost her mother at a young age and her father completely shut down. Delphine was bright and very intelligent with a very bright future ahead of her when an unplanned teenage pregnancy knocked her off course. Though her life is bleak, she puts her hopes on Emma, but along the way she sees a glimmer of hope for her own future and betterment with an opportunity to do something meaningful to her.
With the help of her insightful daughter and good teachers and friends, Delphine finds the confidence to take a chance on herself, both in life and in love…
As with anything in life, there are some bumps in the road, and Delphine’s confidence is shaken a time or two, (sometimes comically), but she also knows that it is time to explain the missing pieces to her daughter concerning her absentee father. This requires a dual timeline format, to some degree, as the reader goes back in time to Delphine’s teenage years, her relationship with her boyfriend, and how she came to be alone and pregnant and why she made the decisions she did at the time.
The mystery eventually unfolds and allows her small family to make peace with the past and begin the process of living life to the fullest again.
I didn’t always agree with Delphine’s opinions- but I did admire the choices she made when she could have taken a different route, and she reaped the blessings, which are immeasurable.
Overall, a really nice story about a woman who has a personal awakening and takes charge of her life, because ultimately it was up to her to get things done- but it was also about the people in her orbit who encouraged her and inspired her and cared enough to help her along her way to a bigger better life.
4+ stars
Delphine is a single mom to Emma, a brilliant, advanced child, while living with and caring for her father, and working as a barista. Her life is in a rut, but an ugly encounter with a former classmate shakes Delphine out of her stupor and opens new doors and fresh opportunities for her, if she is willing to grasp them…
I really enjoyed this novel. Delphine lost her mother at a young age and her father completely shut down. Delphine was bright and very intelligent with a very bright future ahead of her when an unplanned teenage pregnancy knocked her off course. Though her life is bleak, she puts her hopes on Emma, but along the way she sees a glimmer of hope for her own future and betterment with an opportunity to do something meaningful to her.
With the help of her insightful daughter and good teachers and friends, Delphine finds the confidence to take a chance on herself, both in life and in love…
As with anything in life, there are some bumps in the road, and Delphine’s confidence is shaken a time or two, (sometimes comically), but she also knows that it is time to explain the missing pieces to her daughter concerning her absentee father. This requires a dual timeline format, to some degree, as the reader goes back in time to Delphine’s teenage years, her relationship with her boyfriend, and how she came to be alone and pregnant and why she made the decisions she did at the time.
The mystery eventually unfolds and allows her small family to make peace with the past and begin the process of living life to the fullest again.
I didn’t always agree with Delphine’s opinions- but I did admire the choices she made when she could have taken a different route, and she reaped the blessings, which are immeasurable.
Overall, a really nice story about a woman who has a personal awakening and takes charge of her life, because ultimately it was up to her to get things done- but it was also about the people in her orbit who encouraged her and inspired her and cared enough to help her along her way to a bigger better life.
4+ stars
November 25, 2022
Delphine is a single mum with a daughter Emma who is a gifted advanced child.
Delphine works at a barista, struggling to make ends meet she goes through life seeing shades of grey, while looking after her father.
Delphine ends up pregnant her daughter supports her as does the teachers & friends, but life is about to change for the better or is it?
The opinions of Delphine I don’t agree with but she goes with it this is a lovely story full of hope an uplifting read. 3.5 ⭐️
Delphine works at a barista, struggling to make ends meet she goes through life seeing shades of grey, while looking after her father.
Delphine ends up pregnant her daughter supports her as does the teachers & friends, but life is about to change for the better or is it?
The opinions of Delphine I don’t agree with but she goes with it this is a lovely story full of hope an uplifting read. 3.5 ⭐️
May 3, 2022
Delphine Jones Takes a Chance by 2022 G.P. Putnam’s Sons publication.
Delphine is a single mom to Emma, a brilliant, advanced child, while living with and caring for her father, and working as a barista. Her life is in a rut, but an ugly encounter with a former classmate shakes Delphine out of her stupor and opens new doors and fresh opportunities for her, if she is willing to grasp them…
I really enjoyed this novel. Delphine lost her mother at a young age and her father completely shut down. Delphine was bright and very intelligent with a very bright future ahead of her when an unplanned teenage pregnancy knocked her off course. Though her life is bleak, she puts her hopes on Emma, but along the way she sees a glimmer of hope for her own future and betterment with an opportunity to do something meaningful to her.
With the help of her insightful daughter and good teachers and friends, Delphine finds the confidence to take a chance on herself, both in life and in love…
As with anything in life, there are some bumps in the road, and Delphine’s confidence is shaken a time or two, (sometimes comically), but she also knows that it is time to explain the missing pieces to her daughter concerning her absentee father. This requires a dual timeline format, to some degree, as the reader goes back in time to Delphine’s teenage years, her relationship with her boyfriend, and how she came to be alone and pregnant and why she made the decisions she did at the time.
The mystery eventually unfolds and allows her small family to make peace with the past and begin the process of living life to the fullest again.
I didn’t always agree with Delphine’s opinions- but I did admire the choices she made when she could have taken a different route, and she reaped the blessings, which are immeasurable.
Overall, a really nice story about a woman who has a personal awakening and takes charge of her life, because ultimately it was up to her to get things done- but it was also about the people in her orbit who encouraged her and inspired her and cared enough to help her along her way to a bigger better life.
4+ stars
Delphine is a single mom to Emma, a brilliant, advanced child, while living with and caring for her father, and working as a barista. Her life is in a rut, but an ugly encounter with a former classmate shakes Delphine out of her stupor and opens new doors and fresh opportunities for her, if she is willing to grasp them…
I really enjoyed this novel. Delphine lost her mother at a young age and her father completely shut down. Delphine was bright and very intelligent with a very bright future ahead of her when an unplanned teenage pregnancy knocked her off course. Though her life is bleak, she puts her hopes on Emma, but along the way she sees a glimmer of hope for her own future and betterment with an opportunity to do something meaningful to her.
With the help of her insightful daughter and good teachers and friends, Delphine finds the confidence to take a chance on herself, both in life and in love…
As with anything in life, there are some bumps in the road, and Delphine’s confidence is shaken a time or two, (sometimes comically), but she also knows that it is time to explain the missing pieces to her daughter concerning her absentee father. This requires a dual timeline format, to some degree, as the reader goes back in time to Delphine’s teenage years, her relationship with her boyfriend, and how she came to be alone and pregnant and why she made the decisions she did at the time.
The mystery eventually unfolds and allows her small family to make peace with the past and begin the process of living life to the fullest again.
I didn’t always agree with Delphine’s opinions- but I did admire the choices she made when she could have taken a different route, and she reaped the blessings, which are immeasurable.
Overall, a really nice story about a woman who has a personal awakening and takes charge of her life, because ultimately it was up to her to get things done- but it was also about the people in her orbit who encouraged her and inspired her and cared enough to help her along her way to a bigger better life.
4+ stars
February 15, 2022
Em & Me is the second novel by best-selling British author, Beth Morrey. It is nothing like Delphine Jones had envisaged when she was a stellar student at Brownswood Academy: living in her father’s basement flat, working for an awful boss in a low-paying, dead-end job, raising her pre-teen daughter as a single mother, sharing a tiny damp bedroom and bed. A better life for her and Emily looks a long way off.
Delphine dearly loves her daughter and her father, but so much is missing from her life: the music and French language she shared with her late mother; the love of language nurtured during childhood by her still-grieving father, much withdrawn from life since his wife’s death, and the chance of a career centred on literature. And a man? Well, she doesn’t have time for that!
And then an incident with a spiteful rival sees her losing her job: could things get any worse?
Life, though, and her sometimes-devious daughter, have other plans. They conspire to drop opportunities into her lap. Delphine is hesitant at first, but with encouragement and support from newcomers in her life, Delphine convinces herself to grab them with both hands.
It’s not without hiccups but, over a period of months, Delphine finds a job she enjoys, with caring employers, a chance to reconnect with her mother’s native language, the prospect of singing in a band, and possibility of completing the education she abandoned when she decided to keep her baby. And a man, but she still doesn’t have time for that… does she?
As Delphine approaches each new chance at her dreams, her thoughts are also plunged deep into her past, gradually revealing to the reader just how her life changed from her happy and loving childhood to the dissatisfying fog she inhabits at twenty-eight. And as she emerges, so, eventually, does another significant person in her life.
This is a story that abounds with literary references, so those well-read or at least familiar with classics will find their enjoyment much enhanced. Morrey fills her novel with characters that capture the heart and stir up the emotions. She saddles them with realistic problems and challenges that will have the reader cheering them on to a satisfactory resolution. A story that demonstrates the vital importance, in a young person’s life, of a good teacher, Beth Morrey’s second novel is inspirational and uplifting.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by Better Reading Preview and Harper Collins Australia.
Delphine dearly loves her daughter and her father, but so much is missing from her life: the music and French language she shared with her late mother; the love of language nurtured during childhood by her still-grieving father, much withdrawn from life since his wife’s death, and the chance of a career centred on literature. And a man? Well, she doesn’t have time for that!
And then an incident with a spiteful rival sees her losing her job: could things get any worse?
Life, though, and her sometimes-devious daughter, have other plans. They conspire to drop opportunities into her lap. Delphine is hesitant at first, but with encouragement and support from newcomers in her life, Delphine convinces herself to grab them with both hands.
It’s not without hiccups but, over a period of months, Delphine finds a job she enjoys, with caring employers, a chance to reconnect with her mother’s native language, the prospect of singing in a band, and possibility of completing the education she abandoned when she decided to keep her baby. And a man, but she still doesn’t have time for that… does she?
As Delphine approaches each new chance at her dreams, her thoughts are also plunged deep into her past, gradually revealing to the reader just how her life changed from her happy and loving childhood to the dissatisfying fog she inhabits at twenty-eight. And as she emerges, so, eventually, does another significant person in her life.
This is a story that abounds with literary references, so those well-read or at least familiar with classics will find their enjoyment much enhanced. Morrey fills her novel with characters that capture the heart and stir up the emotions. She saddles them with realistic problems and challenges that will have the reader cheering them on to a satisfactory resolution. A story that demonstrates the vital importance, in a young person’s life, of a good teacher, Beth Morrey’s second novel is inspirational and uplifting.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by Better Reading Preview and Harper Collins Australia.
March 30, 2022
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Em & Me by Beth Morrey. (2022).
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 2 February 2022**
For too long - since the death of her mother at 13, and the birth of her daughter Em at 17 - Delphine has been unable to let go of the past, obsessed with protecting Em and clinging to a secret that could ruin everything. She's been living life in safe shades of grey. But now she begins to remember what it's like to want more: rediscovering her singing voice, making friends, and reviving her mother's roots and memories. As her life fills with colour, can she be brave for herself and for Em? And what would happen if she finally told the truth?
I quite enjoyed this contemporary story about a young mother who is finally finding herself after many years of just trying to make ends meet for herself, her daughter Em, and her father who they live with. Delphine had been forced to become fairly independent after losing her mother at only 13 and her father not coping with grief, and then she becomes a mother at the age of 17. She puts aside her hopes and dreams in order to care for Em, who is a determined, intelligent and slightly sneaky young lady. With Em working behind the scenes, some opportunities come Delphine's way and it is time for her well-deserved second chance...
Overall: this is an uplifting contemporary story and readers will be cheering Delphine on as she slowly starts opening up.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Em & Me by Beth Morrey. (2022).
**Thank you to HarperCollins Australia for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review; published 2 February 2022**
For too long - since the death of her mother at 13, and the birth of her daughter Em at 17 - Delphine has been unable to let go of the past, obsessed with protecting Em and clinging to a secret that could ruin everything. She's been living life in safe shades of grey. But now she begins to remember what it's like to want more: rediscovering her singing voice, making friends, and reviving her mother's roots and memories. As her life fills with colour, can she be brave for herself and for Em? And what would happen if she finally told the truth?
I quite enjoyed this contemporary story about a young mother who is finally finding herself after many years of just trying to make ends meet for herself, her daughter Em, and her father who they live with. Delphine had been forced to become fairly independent after losing her mother at only 13 and her father not coping with grief, and then she becomes a mother at the age of 17. She puts aside her hopes and dreams in order to care for Em, who is a determined, intelligent and slightly sneaky young lady. With Em working behind the scenes, some opportunities come Delphine's way and it is time for her well-deserved second chance...
Overall: this is an uplifting contemporary story and readers will be cheering Delphine on as she slowly starts opening up.
November 17, 2025
A lovely, simple book about a struggling single mum trying to get her life back on track. Delphine was sitting her A levels and a top student, when she became pregnant at sixteen and gave it all away to do the best she could to raise her daughter. Living with her severely depressed dad after his beloved wife died and sharing a bed and room with her 12 year brilliant daughter Em, it's time for things to change.
And it does. Lovely mother/daughter relationship, lovely friends, including a cranky old French lady who challenges her, Delphine starts studying again, starts singing and playing the piano and somehow does what needs doing. Nicely done, lovely book. 4 solid stars for me.
"I never wanted to be rich; just wanted not to have to think about it. Presumably rich people would have to think about it, just from a different angle, whereas I wanted to occupy a sweet spot where we had neither too much nor too little, all the time."
"He nodded, a smile hovering about his mouth. ‘A persuasive argument. Which would you rather be: clever or beautiful?’ I wrinkled my nose. ‘I’d rather be rich.’"
"Maybe you couldn’t interfere with people’s choices, but you could make it easier for them to make the right ones."
"Adam was the gleaming grand piano to my battered old upright, and it didn’t really matter how we played; we were both working with very different instruments."
And it does. Lovely mother/daughter relationship, lovely friends, including a cranky old French lady who challenges her, Delphine starts studying again, starts singing and playing the piano and somehow does what needs doing. Nicely done, lovely book. 4 solid stars for me.
"I never wanted to be rich; just wanted not to have to think about it. Presumably rich people would have to think about it, just from a different angle, whereas I wanted to occupy a sweet spot where we had neither too much nor too little, all the time."
"He nodded, a smile hovering about his mouth. ‘A persuasive argument. Which would you rather be: clever or beautiful?’ I wrinkled my nose. ‘I’d rather be rich.’"
"Maybe you couldn’t interfere with people’s choices, but you could make it easier for them to make the right ones."
"Adam was the gleaming grand piano to my battered old upright, and it didn’t really matter how we played; we were both working with very different instruments."
July 5, 2022
Publication date February 3rd, 2022.
Blurb: That’s what life turns on, isn’t it? The choices and moments that change everything
Once upon a time, Delphine Jones had big dreams. Clever, beautiful and ambitious, she was going to get an education, travel the world, make her mark. But somewhere along the line, it all went wrong… Now Delphine is a struggling single mum, serving coffee for a living, fishing coins out the back of the sofa to make ends meet. All she wants is a safe place for her and her daughter Em, yet nothing she does makes a difference.
But there is one thing she never gave up: hope.
***
COMMENTS
This is a wholesome read. It's never too late to restart the future, it all depends on what you choose to define you. It took Delphine a few years after leaving school, to find her way back to her own dreams. It was a challenging road, but with the help of new friends and inspired by her daughter, her life changed in more ways than she ever hoped for.
This novel is so rich in culture, people and possibilities. From music to literature, to food and all the different characters that formed a friendship and support ring around Delphine and her daughter Em.
A cozy, relaxing experience.
Blurb: That’s what life turns on, isn’t it? The choices and moments that change everything
Once upon a time, Delphine Jones had big dreams. Clever, beautiful and ambitious, she was going to get an education, travel the world, make her mark. But somewhere along the line, it all went wrong… Now Delphine is a struggling single mum, serving coffee for a living, fishing coins out the back of the sofa to make ends meet. All she wants is a safe place for her and her daughter Em, yet nothing she does makes a difference.
But there is one thing she never gave up: hope.
***
COMMENTS
This is a wholesome read. It's never too late to restart the future, it all depends on what you choose to define you. It took Delphine a few years after leaving school, to find her way back to her own dreams. It was a challenging road, but with the help of new friends and inspired by her daughter, her life changed in more ways than she ever hoped for.
This novel is so rich in culture, people and possibilities. From music to literature, to food and all the different characters that formed a friendship and support ring around Delphine and her daughter Em.
A cozy, relaxing experience.
March 25, 2022
Em & Me is the second novel by best-selling British author, Beth Morrey. The audio version is narrated by Pearl Mackie. It is nothing like Delphine Jones had envisaged when she was a stellar student at Brownswood Academy: living in her father’s basement flat, working for an awful boss in a low-paying, dead-end job, raising her pre-teen daughter as a single mother, sharing a tiny damp bedroom and bed. A better life for her and Emily looks a long way off.
Delphine dearly loves her daughter and her father, but so much is missing from her life: the music and French language she shared with her late mother; the love of language nurtured during childhood by her still-grieving father, much withdrawn from life since his wife’s death, and the chance of a career centred on literature. And a man? Well, she doesn’t have time for that!
And then an incident with a spiteful rival sees her losing her job: could things get any worse?
Life, though, and her sometimes-devious daughter, have other plans. They conspire to drop opportunities into her lap. Delphine is hesitant at first, but with encouragement and support from newcomers in her life, Delphine convinces herself to grab them with both hands.
It’s not without hiccups but, over a period of months, Delphine finds a job she enjoys, with caring employers, a chance to reconnect with her mother’s native language, the prospect of singing in a band, and possibility of completing the education she abandoned when she decided to keep her baby. And a man, but she still doesn’t have time for that… does she?
As Delphine approaches each new chance at her dreams, her thoughts are also plunged deep into her past, gradually revealing to the reader just how her life changed from her happy and loving childhood to the dissatisfying fog she inhabits at twenty-eight. And as she emerges, so, eventually, does another significant person in her life.
This is a story that abounds with literary references, so those well-read or at least familiar with classics will find their enjoyment much enhanced. Morrey fills her novel with characters that capture the heart and stir up the emotions. She saddles them with realistic problems and challenges that will have the reader cheering them on to a satisfactory resolution. A story that demonstrates the vital importance, in a young person’s life, of a good teacher, Beth Morrey’s second novel is inspirational and uplifting.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Harper Collins UK
Delphine dearly loves her daughter and her father, but so much is missing from her life: the music and French language she shared with her late mother; the love of language nurtured during childhood by her still-grieving father, much withdrawn from life since his wife’s death, and the chance of a career centred on literature. And a man? Well, she doesn’t have time for that!
And then an incident with a spiteful rival sees her losing her job: could things get any worse?
Life, though, and her sometimes-devious daughter, have other plans. They conspire to drop opportunities into her lap. Delphine is hesitant at first, but with encouragement and support from newcomers in her life, Delphine convinces herself to grab them with both hands.
It’s not without hiccups but, over a period of months, Delphine finds a job she enjoys, with caring employers, a chance to reconnect with her mother’s native language, the prospect of singing in a band, and possibility of completing the education she abandoned when she decided to keep her baby. And a man, but she still doesn’t have time for that… does she?
As Delphine approaches each new chance at her dreams, her thoughts are also plunged deep into her past, gradually revealing to the reader just how her life changed from her happy and loving childhood to the dissatisfying fog she inhabits at twenty-eight. And as she emerges, so, eventually, does another significant person in her life.
This is a story that abounds with literary references, so those well-read or at least familiar with classics will find their enjoyment much enhanced. Morrey fills her novel with characters that capture the heart and stir up the emotions. She saddles them with realistic problems and challenges that will have the reader cheering them on to a satisfactory resolution. A story that demonstrates the vital importance, in a young person’s life, of a good teacher, Beth Morrey’s second novel is inspirational and uplifting.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Harper Collins UK
February 7, 2022
This story opens with an incredibly gripping first chapter. It hooked me in right away, wanting to know more about the main character and her life, her history and where this was all going.
It was such an easy read but also with great depth. At its core it’s the story of a mother and daughter, but it’s so much more. It’s hopeful and heartwarming, celebrating real personal growth. It’s also beautifully written!
It was such an easy read but also with great depth. At its core it’s the story of a mother and daughter, but it’s so much more. It’s hopeful and heartwarming, celebrating real personal growth. It’s also beautifully written!
October 30, 2022
Delphine Jones knew what she wanted from life and she was determined to do all she could to get it no matter what.
But as we all know best made plans don't always go to plan which Delphine was about to find out.
I'm honestly not sure what made me pick this book up, but I'm so pleased I did.
But as we all know best made plans don't always go to plan which Delphine was about to find out.
I'm honestly not sure what made me pick this book up, but I'm so pleased I did.
February 20, 2022
An enjoyable and predictable storyline with loveable characters that are all just broken enough to make them relatable. But is anyone going to mention the fact that SHE WAS RAPED BY HER SCHOOLTEACHER????? I mean WTF! I actually can’t believe that this was part of the storyline and it was glossed over in such a blasé and dismissive manner. She was 16, she was drunk, there was no consent = rape, coercion, abuse of power. The way this is treated in the storyline is shameful, perpetuating the message of victim guilt - but it’s all ok because he died in a car crash. I am actually so shocked that in 2021 this aspect of the story was approved for publication. Shame
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2022
Maybe I’m too old and grumpy for a story like this. Probably better for a reader in their 20s. I found Delphine and her teen pregnancy, school drop-out backstory and now ten years later trying to get her life back on track to be fine but just a bit tedious. There’s also a big issue of consent/ rape that is dealt with a little too neatly for my liking. The characters were hard to picture, Roz the school teacher who was once a well-known actor who toys with becoming a movie star but then decides she loves teaching after all? Ten year old Em who acts like she’s eighteen and is some sort of literary genius. Some things just didn’t sit right. I enjoyed the character Letty and all the French but think it’s a bit smarty-pants presumptuous to put that much foreign language in a novel and expect everyone to understand it.
Near the beginning Delphine narrates “That’s what your life turns on, isn’t it? Single details; the choices and moments that change everything.” To me this was the crux of the story, how all those choices and moments had played out and how new ones can forge a way forward.
Near the beginning Delphine narrates “That’s what your life turns on, isn’t it? Single details; the choices and moments that change everything.” To me this was the crux of the story, how all those choices and moments had played out and how new ones can forge a way forward.
February 5, 2022
Well Delphine may be one of my new favourite characters, this was a wonderful story of learning to try new things, come out of your shell and experience what life has to offer.
After falling pregnant at an early age Delphine is derailed from her expected path and works in a cafe to look after her child Em and her struggling father. An event at the cafe leads Delphine to reassess her life and this is a pivotal moment and wonderful too.
I loved following Delphine grow throughout this book and her interactions with Em and Letty the elderly lady she befriends (always love an intergenerational friendship) as well as how she takes control and we learn about Delphines childhood too.
Despite not knowing most of the books talked about it was still excellent to have this scattered throughout the book and the French conversations too.
There are some TW though, so it's not all sunshine.
After falling pregnant at an early age Delphine is derailed from her expected path and works in a cafe to look after her child Em and her struggling father. An event at the cafe leads Delphine to reassess her life and this is a pivotal moment and wonderful too.
I loved following Delphine grow throughout this book and her interactions with Em and Letty the elderly lady she befriends (always love an intergenerational friendship) as well as how she takes control and we learn about Delphines childhood too.
Despite not knowing most of the books talked about it was still excellent to have this scattered throughout the book and the French conversations too.
There are some TW though, so it's not all sunshine.
May 14, 2022
the kind of book you throw across the room
February 2, 2022
As a true lover of Beth Morrey's previous book 'Saving Missy' I was looking forward to seeing where she went with this one. And then when I first saw the length of this book I wasn't all that excited as it seemed like a long book and some long books can bore me. But not this one!
This is the story of a mother and daughter yet it is so much more. It is about family, friendship, loss and love. It is about extending yourself to make life better and understanding what that means to you. It is a story that tells you of the past but always brings you back to the present with more of an understanding as to why things in life happen the way they do.
I loved the characters as they were all different but they all brought so much to this story. Some were quirky, some where unique but they all had a role to play. All in all this was the tory of Delphine and her life, not forgetting the past but trying to make the present and future a better place not all for yourself but for those you love.
Great, wonderful, heartwarming book that I highly recommend.
Em & Me
Beth Morrey
HarperCollins Publishers
This is the story of a mother and daughter yet it is so much more. It is about family, friendship, loss and love. It is about extending yourself to make life better and understanding what that means to you. It is a story that tells you of the past but always brings you back to the present with more of an understanding as to why things in life happen the way they do.
I loved the characters as they were all different but they all brought so much to this story. Some were quirky, some where unique but they all had a role to play. All in all this was the tory of Delphine and her life, not forgetting the past but trying to make the present and future a better place not all for yourself but for those you love.
Great, wonderful, heartwarming book that I highly recommend.
Em & Me
Beth Morrey
HarperCollins Publishers
May 13, 2022
Delphine Jones Takes a Chance is another moving story full of moments and details by Beth Morrey.
This story is full of details and it will maybe take you a little time to get into the characters and the story but it's going to get there, and everything will start to make sense.
Delphine Jones Takes a Chance is the story of delphine a young lady who is working hard to support her daughter and her father, she is a single mother who at times feels like she doesn't really know where is she heading lost and sometimes feels like the world is crumbling all around.
My favorite character was Emma she was a smart, intelligent a very special girl who brought so much to her mother's and grandparent's life, she was unique and different in a very good way, and her intelligence made her stand out also in a good way.
Miss Morrey has a great way of describing all the details of the story and this makes the book more magical and more inspiring I really enjoy Delphine she was a good character.
Without getting into much detail Delphine Jones was a good book something to remember, to immerse yourself in and lose yourself with the characters and the story
Overall I really enjoy this book because somehow it feel very empowering, for me Delphine's character was empowering role model for many of us.
Thank you, NetGalley and Penguin group Putnam, G.P. Putnam's Sons for the advanced copy of Delphine Jones Takes a Chance in exchange for my honest review.
This story is full of details and it will maybe take you a little time to get into the characters and the story but it's going to get there, and everything will start to make sense.
Delphine Jones Takes a Chance is the story of delphine a young lady who is working hard to support her daughter and her father, she is a single mother who at times feels like she doesn't really know where is she heading lost and sometimes feels like the world is crumbling all around.
My favorite character was Emma she was a smart, intelligent a very special girl who brought so much to her mother's and grandparent's life, she was unique and different in a very good way, and her intelligence made her stand out also in a good way.
Miss Morrey has a great way of describing all the details of the story and this makes the book more magical and more inspiring I really enjoy Delphine she was a good character.
Without getting into much detail Delphine Jones was a good book something to remember, to immerse yourself in and lose yourself with the characters and the story
Overall I really enjoy this book because somehow it feel very empowering, for me Delphine's character was empowering role model for many of us.
Thank you, NetGalley and Penguin group Putnam, G.P. Putnam's Sons for the advanced copy of Delphine Jones Takes a Chance in exchange for my honest review.
February 25, 2022
My feelings toward this read are ho hum. As I read I felt like I was skimming along the surface, not able to dive deeply into the text. A young mother is striving to improve herself, get her degree, and shore up some issues from her past, especially dealing with her daughter’s father.
This novel just was not for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam for the advance read.
This novel just was not for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam for the advance read.
April 5, 2022
**audiobook version**
Narrator 5 stars
Story 5 stars
I found this book and is evolution of the story to be quite beautiful. I really enjoyed listening to this
Narrator 5 stars
Story 5 stars
I found this book and is evolution of the story to be quite beautiful. I really enjoyed listening to this
January 31, 2022
I’m automatically attracted to the kind of storylines Beth Morrey’s Em and Me offers and in the past year in particular I’ve feasted upon a huge array of titles all promising the same thing; that I’ll find the content heartwarming, uplifting and joyous. Invariably I do but sometimes this type of fiction can be a trifle too lighthearted and/or frivolous for my liking. Em and Me isn’t like that. It is beautifully written, emotionally intelligent and nuanced, starring a character with whom I felt an affinity towards. What truly blew me away was the relationship between these characters and the sheer amount of love and friendship that exists within their circle. Some of these relationships really struck a chord with me. Em and Me is a novel about second chances and finding the confidence, however late in life, to achieve your dreams. It’s about grief and holding onto memories but ultimately not letting these memories hold you back. It’s about love in all its glorious forms and treading your own path to happiness and although I would consider this novel to err on the more serious side of life at times, it is by no means depressing. I found this novel to be inspiring, hopeful and entertaining. It is tender, sweet, a little bit quirky, funny and yes, I’m afraid I can’t escape using those three adjectives, it is heartwarming, uplifting and joyous! But it has an element of mystery too which I also found appealing. This was definitely my cup of tea and I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did.
Delphine (Fifi) Jones is a single mum living with her 12 year old daughter Em and her father who is consumed by grief over the loss of his beloved French wife Jojo. They are a close unit but money is extremely tight with Delphine working as a barista and cleaner, the only options open to a woman who dropped out of school aged 16, pregnant. Once a promising student herself, destined for great things, Em is following in Delphine’s scholarly footsteps, a chip off the old block as they say. All Delphine wants is for her daughter to succeed where she has failed, just like any other parent would. The sudden loss of her barista job is another blow on the financial front but strangely and serendipitously this is the point at which Delphine’s life takes an upward turn. Finding work as a waitress at Merhaba, an Eritrean coffee/bookshop run by Selassie and his wife Abrihet, Delphine’s world begins to open up, introducing her to like minded souls who together broaden her horizons, offering her the opportunities to live her best life.
Divided into four sections according to the academic school year the storyline charts Delphine’s progress from a stressed out mum with an empty belly and an empty bank account to a woman embracing all life has to offer, fulfilling her true potential and rediscovering her passions. It goes backwards and forwards in time, enabling the reader to meet the younger Delphine, a star pupil besotted by English literature and experiencing romantic love for the first time. I loved this aspect of the novel, these insights clarifying Delphine’s reasons for her lack of confidence and self belief, for holding back, afraid to let go of the past. They made me love her just a little bit more. Like I’ve already said this is a novel concerned with the relationships that shape and define us, good and bad. Beth Morrey’s exploration of those that exit between mothers and daughters, between daughters and fathers, between teachers and pupils, between the old and the young is one of the biggest strengths of this novel. As a single mum to an only daughter I completely connected with Delphine and Em, instantly recognising that close, fierce bond they share. Despite the fact that life is hard, Em is the reason Delphine keeps on getting up in the morning, for Delphine is nothing if not brave and resilient. The love Delphine feels for her daughter knows no bounds and that resonated with me 100%. Meanwhile the dynamic between Delphine, her dad and Em is exquisitely observed and simply gorgeous. There can be no denying these three are a tight knit team. The way in which Delphine cares for her father, accepting that he has chosen to lock a part of himself away, his life bleached of all colour is both beautiful and heart rending. Time and again their interactions brought a lump to my throat. These emotional connections are really quite intense and none more so than the love still felt for Jojo, memories of whom linger everywhere, her ghostly presence felt in every corner of their lives. For this reason she is a hugely important character, whose role in Delphine’s metamorphosis equals that of any of the other characters, all encouraging Delphine to take a leap of faith.
That leads me nicely onto a discussion about the individuals who Delphine somewhat fortuitously crosses paths with. First mention goes to the generous hearted Selassie and Abrihet who welcome both Delphine and Em into their lives, cosseting and nurturing them like they would their own child or grandchild. These two hold a special place in my heart for the warmth,kindness and friendship they extend and the guidance they give to Delphine as she begins to find her feet again. There’s Em’s English teacher and former child actress Roz Gill who is another big influence in Delphine’s life, taking her under her wing, inspiring and encouraging her to resume her studies, finishing what she started all those years ago. Roz is also partly responsible for bringing music and singing back into Delphine’s life, introducing her to husband Sanjay and friend Dylan who are both musicians. Last but not least there’s the wonderful outrageous Letty, a widow searching for a French speaking companion and Delphine naturally fits the bill. They form a beautiful friendship, embarking on a French adventure of their own helping Delphine to not only reconnect with her mother’s roots but to learn how to find joy and pleasure once more. Letty brings the fun element to the table which is a welcome respite from the more serious stuff playing out behind the scenes.
I can’t compare Em and Me to Saving Missy because the latter is still languishing on my bookshelf (apologies to the author) but what I do know is I adored Delphine’s story. Beth Morrey takes you on an emotional journey with a novel that celebrates love, friendship and personal growth alongside characters who all have a positive impact on this young woman’s future self. Definitely life affirming and food for the soul Em and Me is a novel to hold dear.
My thanks as always to the publisher HarperCollins and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
Delphine (Fifi) Jones is a single mum living with her 12 year old daughter Em and her father who is consumed by grief over the loss of his beloved French wife Jojo. They are a close unit but money is extremely tight with Delphine working as a barista and cleaner, the only options open to a woman who dropped out of school aged 16, pregnant. Once a promising student herself, destined for great things, Em is following in Delphine’s scholarly footsteps, a chip off the old block as they say. All Delphine wants is for her daughter to succeed where she has failed, just like any other parent would. The sudden loss of her barista job is another blow on the financial front but strangely and serendipitously this is the point at which Delphine’s life takes an upward turn. Finding work as a waitress at Merhaba, an Eritrean coffee/bookshop run by Selassie and his wife Abrihet, Delphine’s world begins to open up, introducing her to like minded souls who together broaden her horizons, offering her the opportunities to live her best life.
Divided into four sections according to the academic school year the storyline charts Delphine’s progress from a stressed out mum with an empty belly and an empty bank account to a woman embracing all life has to offer, fulfilling her true potential and rediscovering her passions. It goes backwards and forwards in time, enabling the reader to meet the younger Delphine, a star pupil besotted by English literature and experiencing romantic love for the first time. I loved this aspect of the novel, these insights clarifying Delphine’s reasons for her lack of confidence and self belief, for holding back, afraid to let go of the past. They made me love her just a little bit more. Like I’ve already said this is a novel concerned with the relationships that shape and define us, good and bad. Beth Morrey’s exploration of those that exit between mothers and daughters, between daughters and fathers, between teachers and pupils, between the old and the young is one of the biggest strengths of this novel. As a single mum to an only daughter I completely connected with Delphine and Em, instantly recognising that close, fierce bond they share. Despite the fact that life is hard, Em is the reason Delphine keeps on getting up in the morning, for Delphine is nothing if not brave and resilient. The love Delphine feels for her daughter knows no bounds and that resonated with me 100%. Meanwhile the dynamic between Delphine, her dad and Em is exquisitely observed and simply gorgeous. There can be no denying these three are a tight knit team. The way in which Delphine cares for her father, accepting that he has chosen to lock a part of himself away, his life bleached of all colour is both beautiful and heart rending. Time and again their interactions brought a lump to my throat. These emotional connections are really quite intense and none more so than the love still felt for Jojo, memories of whom linger everywhere, her ghostly presence felt in every corner of their lives. For this reason she is a hugely important character, whose role in Delphine’s metamorphosis equals that of any of the other characters, all encouraging Delphine to take a leap of faith.
That leads me nicely onto a discussion about the individuals who Delphine somewhat fortuitously crosses paths with. First mention goes to the generous hearted Selassie and Abrihet who welcome both Delphine and Em into their lives, cosseting and nurturing them like they would their own child or grandchild. These two hold a special place in my heart for the warmth,kindness and friendship they extend and the guidance they give to Delphine as she begins to find her feet again. There’s Em’s English teacher and former child actress Roz Gill who is another big influence in Delphine’s life, taking her under her wing, inspiring and encouraging her to resume her studies, finishing what she started all those years ago. Roz is also partly responsible for bringing music and singing back into Delphine’s life, introducing her to husband Sanjay and friend Dylan who are both musicians. Last but not least there’s the wonderful outrageous Letty, a widow searching for a French speaking companion and Delphine naturally fits the bill. They form a beautiful friendship, embarking on a French adventure of their own helping Delphine to not only reconnect with her mother’s roots but to learn how to find joy and pleasure once more. Letty brings the fun element to the table which is a welcome respite from the more serious stuff playing out behind the scenes.
I can’t compare Em and Me to Saving Missy because the latter is still languishing on my bookshelf (apologies to the author) but what I do know is I adored Delphine’s story. Beth Morrey takes you on an emotional journey with a novel that celebrates love, friendship and personal growth alongside characters who all have a positive impact on this young woman’s future self. Definitely life affirming and food for the soul Em and Me is a novel to hold dear.
My thanks as always to the publisher HarperCollins and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2022
Delphine Jones adored her daughter, and therefore accepted living in her childhood room and working a dead-end job. The universe, and her daughter, seemed to have different plans for her, as a string of opportunities came her way, extending her circle of friends and reviving her dreams.
This story was something special. As a single mom, I related so much to many of Delphine’s experiences. I also have a daughter who I adore and was worth making sacrifices for. It doesn’t mean you can’t want more, and as I read, I wanted more for Delphine. Her life wasn’t easy before she became a teen mom, and it got even harder after. Seeing Delphine step outside her comfort zone and take these chances was such a reward for me, and I was cheering her on every step of the way.
There was something really wonderful about the how the events unfolded. One opportunity lead to another, and some came with a side of healing for Delphine. The pain of losing her mother was something she carried with her, and she felt her memories of her mother fading more and more each day. Two of the characters who entered her world help her reconnect with her mother. This reconnection pushed Delphine’s healing process forward, and like almost all things in this book, it had a domino effect on her life, making other positive things happen.
The opportunities that came her way plus Delphine’s hard work and perseverance resulted in so many amazing things for her, but there was a little help from her friends. And, wow! What an incredible group of people came into her life. She already had the love of her spectacular daughter, but the new additions to her world made things even better. They helped restore her hopes and made her aspire for more. They pushed her, encouraged her, and supported her. Most of all, they believed in her. Cue the tears because I found it all really moving.
Overall: A beautiful and uplifting story of making changes and taking chances that really touched my heart.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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This story was something special. As a single mom, I related so much to many of Delphine’s experiences. I also have a daughter who I adore and was worth making sacrifices for. It doesn’t mean you can’t want more, and as I read, I wanted more for Delphine. Her life wasn’t easy before she became a teen mom, and it got even harder after. Seeing Delphine step outside her comfort zone and take these chances was such a reward for me, and I was cheering her on every step of the way.
There was something really wonderful about the how the events unfolded. One opportunity lead to another, and some came with a side of healing for Delphine. The pain of losing her mother was something she carried with her, and she felt her memories of her mother fading more and more each day. Two of the characters who entered her world help her reconnect with her mother. This reconnection pushed Delphine’s healing process forward, and like almost all things in this book, it had a domino effect on her life, making other positive things happen.
The opportunities that came her way plus Delphine’s hard work and perseverance resulted in so many amazing things for her, but there was a little help from her friends. And, wow! What an incredible group of people came into her life. She already had the love of her spectacular daughter, but the new additions to her world made things even better. They helped restore her hopes and made her aspire for more. They pushed her, encouraged her, and supported her. Most of all, they believed in her. Cue the tears because I found it all really moving.
Overall: A beautiful and uplifting story of making changes and taking chances that really touched my heart.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
April 5, 2022
As I write this review, I’m still trying to process the goodness of this book. It is pure, it is wholesome, and it just a makes you feel. Sometimes the simplest of stories are my favorite. Not flashy. Not overly dramatic. Not scandalous. Just a pure perfection story.
This story is about life, love, losses, personal growth, and second chances. As it follows 28 year old, Delphine Jones, as she navigates her life as a single mother to an 11 year old, Em. What a brilliant character you created in Em, Beth Morrey! I loved Delphine and her relationships with all of the people in her life. But her relationship with her daughter, is so, so special. The personal growth and confidence that Delphine experiences is truly inspiring.
I don’t think I have words adequate enough to do this one justice. It is an absolute gem. And I’m going to make a bold statement: this has been my favorite read so far this year!
I have not read Morrey’s other novel, “The Love Story of Missy Carmichael,” but it is on my shelf and I am going to be moving that one up on my TBR list very soon! I have a good feeling it will also be phenomenal.
Thank you times a million to Beth Morrey and Putnam Books for this beautiful gifted copy.
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 11, 2022
Em & Me by Beth Morrey was a delightful surprise. Not because I didn't think I'd enjoy it. I certainly loved Morrey's debut novel, Saving Missy... but my thrall here was because my reading of it came at exactly the right time. It was the feel-good book I didn't know I needed. If that makes sense.
Before I started it I'd wondered if the blurb gave away too much and the book itself would have nothing left to proffer, but it wasn't the case. Because though we do kinda know where this is going, I was very happy to travel along with Delphine and her daughter Emily and the assortment of family and friends they've gathered along the way.
I really enjoyed this new read by Morrey. It’s heartwarming but not cliched. We know what’s coming but it’s not predictable. The characters are delightful but not without faults and flaws. And bonus points…. lovers of literature will appreciate there are a lot of reference to popular and iconic classics.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
Before I started it I'd wondered if the blurb gave away too much and the book itself would have nothing left to proffer, but it wasn't the case. Because though we do kinda know where this is going, I was very happy to travel along with Delphine and her daughter Emily and the assortment of family and friends they've gathered along the way.
I really enjoyed this new read by Morrey. It’s heartwarming but not cliched. We know what’s coming but it’s not predictable. The characters are delightful but not without faults and flaws. And bonus points…. lovers of literature will appreciate there are a lot of reference to popular and iconic classics.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
January 4, 2022
A wonderful book about choices and second chances, with the question "Can you be rich and poor at the same time?" at its heart.
Delphine Jones is juggling and struggling her job as a waitress, with the care of both her daughter and her grief stricken father, with the memories of her dead mother hovering around them. The three of them share a small two bedroom flat and life is not easy.
I loved the relationship between Delphine and her daughter Em. The love and protection Delphine offers is heartening from a person with so much on her plate. Em is gifted and as Delphine does everything she can to help and encourage her, she begins to remember her own schooling and what she missed out on by having Em so young.
This book is a riot of colour and music, education and love; chock full with a rich cast of characters. A real uplifting and hopeful novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and to HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this early copy.
Delphine Jones is juggling and struggling her job as a waitress, with the care of both her daughter and her grief stricken father, with the memories of her dead mother hovering around them. The three of them share a small two bedroom flat and life is not easy.
I loved the relationship between Delphine and her daughter Em. The love and protection Delphine offers is heartening from a person with so much on her plate. Em is gifted and as Delphine does everything she can to help and encourage her, she begins to remember her own schooling and what she missed out on by having Em so young.
This book is a riot of colour and music, education and love; chock full with a rich cast of characters. A real uplifting and hopeful novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and to HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this early copy.
February 3, 2022
A classic single-mom trying to give her child a better life, while finding her own way. However, this one is deliciously multi-layered and complex. While I cheered Fifi, I fell hard for Letty!! We need a book that's about Letty's life!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
June 29, 2022
Absolutely loved this. I will read anything by this author. The story of Delphine and her dad and daughter is so moving and riveting. It is about love in all its manifestations. Highly recommend to all.
March 3, 2022
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for approving me for an ARC of this book. I absolutely adored Beth Morrey’s debut, Saving Missy, so I couldn’t wait to read this one. I did a mini group buddy read of this and I think it is safe to say that we all loved it.
This book belongs on that list of books that are too good to review. I honestly feel that whatever I say my words will not be enough to explain just how good this story is. Beth Morrey dives deep into the emotion of the characters and makes them people you not only root for but want to sweep up and protect from the world.
There were several occasions when I found myself weeping at not just the beautiful writing but the characters and their stories. From the loveable Em who constantly has her nosed buried in a book to the brash and flamboyant Letty who certainly took Delphine under her wing. There are ample of characters to love and enjoy scattered throughout the pages and a slight mystery to be solved too.
The story takes us back to Delphine’s childhood when were learn more about her and the events that lead to how her life is now. I had to admire Delphine and how she evolved as a character. At the start she was very timid and certainly needed a shove in the right direction but she soon blossomed and realised her potential. This story just shows how important not just family are but the friends you surround yourself with. Delphine found a great group of friends who helped her make some tough choices but they also cheered her on and kept her grounded.
Beth Morrey has done it again and completely stolen my heart. her last book was in my top books of the year and I have a feeling that this one will be there too!
This book belongs on that list of books that are too good to review. I honestly feel that whatever I say my words will not be enough to explain just how good this story is. Beth Morrey dives deep into the emotion of the characters and makes them people you not only root for but want to sweep up and protect from the world.
There were several occasions when I found myself weeping at not just the beautiful writing but the characters and their stories. From the loveable Em who constantly has her nosed buried in a book to the brash and flamboyant Letty who certainly took Delphine under her wing. There are ample of characters to love and enjoy scattered throughout the pages and a slight mystery to be solved too.
The story takes us back to Delphine’s childhood when were learn more about her and the events that lead to how her life is now. I had to admire Delphine and how she evolved as a character. At the start she was very timid and certainly needed a shove in the right direction but she soon blossomed and realised her potential. This story just shows how important not just family are but the friends you surround yourself with. Delphine found a great group of friends who helped her make some tough choices but they also cheered her on and kept her grounded.
Beth Morrey has done it again and completely stolen my heart. her last book was in my top books of the year and I have a feeling that this one will be there too!
March 28, 2022
Delphine Jones Takes a Chance by Beth Morrey. Pub Date: April 5, 2022. Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟. Delphine Jones is a young woman raising her daughter, taking care of her father and getting lost and feeling stuck in the unknown. She works at a low paying and thankless job, lives with her father and doesn’t have enough funds to branch out to get a place of her own with her daughter. Throughout the story, little scenes of inspiration start to unfold and Delphine begins a journey of reawakening, new experiences and hope. I absolutely adored this novel and loved how the story unfolded. Thanks to Penguin Group Putnam and NetGalley for this e-arc in exchange for my honest review. #netgalley #putnam #penguinbooks #delphinejonestakesachance #bookstagram #bibliophile #igreads #bookworm
March 22, 2023
This is a general fiction novel about a woman called Delphine, and her daughter Em. It has a lovely story, which is heartwarming and inspiring. I really enjoyed it.
Delphine is a single mother who works hard to support herself, her daughter and her father. She has gone through a lot in her life. This is the story about how she picks herself up and betters herself, fulfilling her dreams, and becoming who she has always wanted to be.
The audiobook narrator is wonderful, and her voice suited the story perfectly.
Many thanks to the author, narrator, publisher, NetGalley and The Pigeonhole for a copy of this book.
Delphine is a single mother who works hard to support herself, her daughter and her father. She has gone through a lot in her life. This is the story about how she picks herself up and betters herself, fulfilling her dreams, and becoming who she has always wanted to be.
The audiobook narrator is wonderful, and her voice suited the story perfectly.
Many thanks to the author, narrator, publisher, NetGalley and The Pigeonhole for a copy of this book.
April 9, 2022
4.5 🤩⭐️
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