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Somewhere Above It All
Self-Discovery on Mount Kilimanjaro
Devastated by her husband’s death from opioid abuse, small-town widow Marren Halleck travels to Tanzania to summit the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Along her trek through the ever-changing scenery of the mountain, Marren finds hope for a new beginning and forms a special connection with her climbing team, including a mysterious cowboy named Chris. Her promising path forward is derailed, however, when she discovers that Chris isn’t who she thinks he is, and she must search inside herself to learn how to truly stand on her own.
In her debut novel, Somewhere Above It All, author Holli Fawcett Clayton takes us on a breathless expedition through nature and brilliantly captures the restorative power of human connection in her poignant portrayal of Marren’s struggle with grief. Readers will be captivated by Marren’s riveting journey to overcome her painful past and find the happiness she longs for.
Devastated by her husband’s death from opioid abuse, small-town widow Marren Halleck travels to Tanzania to summit the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Along her trek through the ever-changing scenery of the mountain, Marren finds hope for a new beginning and forms a special connection with her climbing team, including a mysterious cowboy named Chris. Her promising path forward is derailed, however, when she discovers that Chris isn’t who she thinks he is, and she must search inside herself to learn how to truly stand on her own.
In her debut novel, Somewhere Above It All, author Holli Fawcett Clayton takes us on a breathless expedition through nature and brilliantly captures the restorative power of human connection in her poignant portrayal of Marren’s struggle with grief. Readers will be captivated by Marren’s riveting journey to overcome her painful past and find the happiness she longs for.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 8, 2022
15 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
December 30, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Greenleaf Book Group for the ARC!
1.5 stars. Unfortunately, this book didn't work for me. I loved the premise of the book, as it is about grief and finding happiness after the death of a loved one. However, the execution of the book was a miss for me.
I wasn't the biggest fan of the writing style, as it was primarily telling instead of showing. The writing was a little choppy at times but still readable. There was a lot of back and forth/ changing timelines in the book which made it difficult to follow.
This book is very insta-lovey and while I usually don't mind insta-love I felt that it was out of place for a book about grief (especially since the book itself is very short and is very fast-paced). I couldn't connect to the main character at all and I found myself getting frustrated with her many times throughout the book. I wasn't a huge fan of the love interest either, and I didn't feel the connection between the two. This book also has the third act breakup trope which again I normally love but I couldn't see why the main character took the love interest back, especially when you learn about her past/ past relationship.
The side characters were decent, but in my opinion, they didn't serve much of a purpose and could've been developed a bit more.
Overall, I think that while that others may enjoy this book, it was not my cup of tea and I will personally not be recommending this book.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Release Date: January 11, 2022
Summarized review to be posted on Indigo.ca
Additional Information:
TWs: Domestic Ab*se, Death, Addiction, Suic*de
Genre: Fiction, Romance
Spice? No
Cheating? No
OW/OM? No
HEA? Yes
1.5 stars. Unfortunately, this book didn't work for me. I loved the premise of the book, as it is about grief and finding happiness after the death of a loved one. However, the execution of the book was a miss for me.
I wasn't the biggest fan of the writing style, as it was primarily telling instead of showing. The writing was a little choppy at times but still readable. There was a lot of back and forth/ changing timelines in the book which made it difficult to follow.
This book is very insta-lovey and while I usually don't mind insta-love I felt that it was out of place for a book about grief (especially since the book itself is very short and is very fast-paced). I couldn't connect to the main character at all and I found myself getting frustrated with her many times throughout the book. I wasn't a huge fan of the love interest either, and I didn't feel the connection between the two. This book also has the third act breakup trope which again I normally love but I couldn't see why the main character took the love interest back, especially when you learn about her past/ past relationship.
The side characters were decent, but in my opinion, they didn't serve much of a purpose and could've been developed a bit more.
Overall, I think that while that others may enjoy this book, it was not my cup of tea and I will personally not be recommending this book.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Release Date: January 11, 2022
Summarized review to be posted on Indigo.ca
Additional Information:
TWs: Domestic Ab*se, Death, Addiction, Suic*de
Genre: Fiction, Romance
Spice? No
Cheating? No
OW/OM? No
HEA? Yes
August 16, 2023
I received this book as a part of a Goodreads giveaway.
I want to start by saying this 2/5 isn’t because it was BAD, it just wasn’t for me.
I did really like the complexity of Marren’s grief. Grief is such a complicated thing. You can grieve a person who mistreated you, you can grieve a person you haven’t lost, you can grieve the loss of a life you had before. I think that was beautifully portrayed and relatable.
The whole insta-love thing isn’t really my jam. The pacing was a bit confusing for me. The characters fell a little flat and they all kind of blended into each other. There was also a lot of telling rather than showing, even down to announcing the emotions people were feeling. The “twists” were a bit on the predictable side, despite them being the world’s biggest coincidence.
With all that said, this is the author’s debut novel and I think it was pretty good for a first-time book! Not for me, but certainly for someone. 2/5
I want to start by saying this 2/5 isn’t because it was BAD, it just wasn’t for me.
I did really like the complexity of Marren’s grief. Grief is such a complicated thing. You can grieve a person who mistreated you, you can grieve a person you haven’t lost, you can grieve the loss of a life you had before. I think that was beautifully portrayed and relatable.
The whole insta-love thing isn’t really my jam. The pacing was a bit confusing for me. The characters fell a little flat and they all kind of blended into each other. There was also a lot of telling rather than showing, even down to announcing the emotions people were feeling. The “twists” were a bit on the predictable side, despite them being the world’s biggest coincidence.
With all that said, this is the author’s debut novel and I think it was pretty good for a first-time book! Not for me, but certainly for someone. 2/5
February 27, 2022
This is not the kind of book I normally read. But my wife and I received an advanced copy and decided to read it as a way of getting back into reading together. And, so, it came as somewhat of a shock when I found myself asking if we could finish just one more chapter before going to bed to see what happens next.
The novel follows Marren Halleck’s journey to overcome physical pain and self-doubt on her journey to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. The novel flashes back and forth between present day, where the reader follows Marren’s trek to the summit, and the past, where Marren confronts the realities of her husband’s addiction to opioids. Through this style, the novel is able to weave together Marren’s increasingly difficult personal life with the increasingly difficult climb to the top of Kilimanjaro.
Fortunately, Marren is able to lean heavily on her band of unexpected fellow travelers from the United States and her guide, Simon. But these characters are not backdrops, there only to serve as someone for Marren to grow from. Each character has his or her own backstory and reason for traveling over 5,000 miles from home in an attempt to summit Africa’s highest peak.
In addition to the main story, the novel’s description of the intricacies associated with climbing, and of Kilimanjaro itself, transports the reader to the mountain. I found myself continuously drawn to the description of the plant life—or lack thereof—at each different biome on Kilimanjaro.
I am sincerely glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried something new with this novel.
The novel follows Marren Halleck’s journey to overcome physical pain and self-doubt on her journey to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. The novel flashes back and forth between present day, where the reader follows Marren’s trek to the summit, and the past, where Marren confronts the realities of her husband’s addiction to opioids. Through this style, the novel is able to weave together Marren’s increasingly difficult personal life with the increasingly difficult climb to the top of Kilimanjaro.
Fortunately, Marren is able to lean heavily on her band of unexpected fellow travelers from the United States and her guide, Simon. But these characters are not backdrops, there only to serve as someone for Marren to grow from. Each character has his or her own backstory and reason for traveling over 5,000 miles from home in an attempt to summit Africa’s highest peak.
In addition to the main story, the novel’s description of the intricacies associated with climbing, and of Kilimanjaro itself, transports the reader to the mountain. I found myself continuously drawn to the description of the plant life—or lack thereof—at each different biome on Kilimanjaro.
I am sincerely glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried something new with this novel.
January 28, 2022
I was so excited to receive this book from a Goodreads Giveaway, and while the story was enjoyable, I found it difficult to get invested in the characters and the romance. It felt like we were barely introduced to each character before they were falling in love, and it was hard to believe. I found the insta-love aspect of this really hard to comprehend.
December 16, 2021
1.5 rounded up.
this book is a big ol’ cringe fest
this book is a big ol’ cringe fest
March 29, 2022
📚 NOVEL THOUGHTS 📚
((Thanks to the publisher and Goodreads for the ARC of this book in exchange for my unbiased review))
Marren Halleck has experienced two horrific deaths in her young life: her parents from a car wreck when she was 18 that has left her struggling ever since and that of her husband Brody from a drug overdose following years of addiction from opioids when she was in her late 20s. His once promising career as a baseball player ended after a rotator cuff injury and surgery, leaving him devastated, in pain and prescribed with painkillers that he could never wean himself from. His mood swings and desperation rocked their once perfect relationship and marriage and turned him from a loving partner to an abusive one. Marren now struggles with the shame, guilt and loneliness his death has left. She doesn't know how she can go on until in a dream, Brody comes to her and tells her to climb Mt Kilimanjaro so she can regain her self worth. While on this amazing trip, she meets a handsome, self-assured man, Chris, who helps her find the inner strength both mentally and physically to ascend the peak of Mt Kilimanjaro, face her fears and redefine who she is now without Brody and her parents. Of course, she and Chris become more than just climbing buddies until she discovers that Chris isn't who she thinks he is.
Marren is also supported by Brody's parents Trish and George who, like her, are trying to deal with his death. As a way to take some charge over Brody's addiction, the family decides to sue the company that manufactured the drugs that were given to their son. During her deposition, Marren must confront and relive those years of Brody's downward spiral while also trying to accept that her life is going to go on.
The concept of this story of overcoming grief and reinventing yourself is a good one. The author uses the adventure of starting the climb of the mountain as it is flat and easy and full of beauty but as the climb continues, it becomes harder, less pretty and moments that require a partner who can be counted on when things get dangerous and rough as a metaphor for what Marren goes through in her short 7 year marriage. Also, as a travel guide of climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, it was educational.
What didn't work for me was the writing itself at times. It was clunky and sometimes, unrealistic. Silence dances around us, flaunting its disturbing moves. My poisonous past has risen up to my tongue and begun to spew everywhere now. Toxicity lingers in the air. ICK!
As Marren and Chris become close, she shares her truth with him, down to the most intimate details of her difficulties with Brody. When their trip comes to an end, Chris abruptly ends their relationship, much to Marren's shock. The why is obvious to the reader but not to Marren and she dwells and moons for months over this lost relationship which she was sure was going somewhere. Because of what she shared with Chris, what happens in the courtroom is such a conflict of interest, it is stupid! (As a former lawyer, the author should have known better! imho)
When one of the climbers in her group is stricken with hypoxia, she is taken away to the local hospital, but where was the O2 that is usually available for climbers on these hikes?
What was Marren's constant obsession with eye color?? How many times did she have to write about that?
Trish and George say about Chris ".... with this wonderful man sitting next to me." But don't they recall what happened in the courtroom with this "wonderful man?"
Overall, this has some good moments, has a positive message, draws attention to drug abuse and its effects, but it there was so much more this book could have been and wasn't.
((Thanks to the publisher and Goodreads for the ARC of this book in exchange for my unbiased review))
Marren Halleck has experienced two horrific deaths in her young life: her parents from a car wreck when she was 18 that has left her struggling ever since and that of her husband Brody from a drug overdose following years of addiction from opioids when she was in her late 20s. His once promising career as a baseball player ended after a rotator cuff injury and surgery, leaving him devastated, in pain and prescribed with painkillers that he could never wean himself from. His mood swings and desperation rocked their once perfect relationship and marriage and turned him from a loving partner to an abusive one. Marren now struggles with the shame, guilt and loneliness his death has left. She doesn't know how she can go on until in a dream, Brody comes to her and tells her to climb Mt Kilimanjaro so she can regain her self worth. While on this amazing trip, she meets a handsome, self-assured man, Chris, who helps her find the inner strength both mentally and physically to ascend the peak of Mt Kilimanjaro, face her fears and redefine who she is now without Brody and her parents. Of course, she and Chris become more than just climbing buddies until she discovers that Chris isn't who she thinks he is.
Marren is also supported by Brody's parents Trish and George who, like her, are trying to deal with his death. As a way to take some charge over Brody's addiction, the family decides to sue the company that manufactured the drugs that were given to their son. During her deposition, Marren must confront and relive those years of Brody's downward spiral while also trying to accept that her life is going to go on.
The concept of this story of overcoming grief and reinventing yourself is a good one. The author uses the adventure of starting the climb of the mountain as it is flat and easy and full of beauty but as the climb continues, it becomes harder, less pretty and moments that require a partner who can be counted on when things get dangerous and rough as a metaphor for what Marren goes through in her short 7 year marriage. Also, as a travel guide of climbing Mt Kilimanjaro, it was educational.
What didn't work for me was the writing itself at times. It was clunky and sometimes, unrealistic. Silence dances around us, flaunting its disturbing moves. My poisonous past has risen up to my tongue and begun to spew everywhere now. Toxicity lingers in the air. ICK!
As Marren and Chris become close, she shares her truth with him, down to the most intimate details of her difficulties with Brody. When their trip comes to an end, Chris abruptly ends their relationship, much to Marren's shock. The why is obvious to the reader but not to Marren and she dwells and moons for months over this lost relationship which she was sure was going somewhere. Because of what she shared with Chris, what happens in the courtroom is such a conflict of interest, it is stupid! (As a former lawyer, the author should have known better! imho)
When one of the climbers in her group is stricken with hypoxia, she is taken away to the local hospital, but where was the O2 that is usually available for climbers on these hikes?
What was Marren's constant obsession with eye color?? How many times did she have to write about that?
Trish and George say about Chris ".... with this wonderful man sitting next to me." But don't they recall what happened in the courtroom with this "wonderful man?"
Overall, this has some good moments, has a positive message, draws attention to drug abuse and its effects, but it there was so much more this book could have been and wasn't.
January 22, 2022
In my boredom this week, between breathing treatments and reading, I decided to join Netgalley. My first read was Holli Fawcett Clayton’s debut novel Somewhere Above it All. This adventure-driven romance novel was an encouraging first read!
Clayton’s novel follows Marren up Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Through the climb, flashbacks are used to show readers how Marren got to the point of needing the climb this mountain. Marren’s high school sweetheart Brody tumbles into an opioid addiction after a career-ending injury. Just months before her climb, he overdoses. Readers learn the intricate details of their relationship in between chapters of Marren literally climbing this 19,341ft mountain. In present day, the climbing of the mountain, Marren is struggling with understanding the addiction that leads to her loss. She confines in her climbing group and Chris, the only single one (other than her) on the climb. But like every love story, their relationship isn’t constant fireworks and Marren arrives home alone, questioning her ability to truly be. Through self-discovery, strength, and determination Marren does find her happy ending.
I truly enjoyed the plot of this story. Brody’s addiction not only leaves him a druggie, but also abusive, this is abuse shines through in her character. Marren overthinks second guesses and is obsessive. She is in her head most of the story. The first-person point of view gives readers an interesting insight into how truly broken she is. Through much of the story, Marren wants someone to save her, it’s not until she becomes her own savior that she is allowed to move on. Marren figuratively and literally had to climb her mountain to find her serenity. The literal and figurative representation of climbing a mountain in relation to grief was unique and was one of my favorite aspects of the novel.
Though, much of this story was told to the readers instead of shown. Clayton’s writing style left me annoyed and almost not finishing the book. It felt as though she didn’t trust her readers enough to be able to put clues together and instead spoonfed us how she wanted us to think of Marren, what would happen, and left little to the imagination. This left the book predictable. What kept me reading was the plot, I knew Marren would get over her fears but I wanted to witness it for myself. Marren and her climb kept me reading. I hope in the future Clayton can show more than tell.
Overall, if you are looking for a love story with a spicey adventure, I do recommend this novel which will be released in February! Those doing the #monthoflovechallenge this would be a great read for a book set in a different country!
Rating: 3.5 stars
Favorite Quote: “I’ve come to prove something. I’ve come to prove that I can do hard things. That I can survive. I can climb a mountain. All by myself.”
Clayton’s novel follows Marren up Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Through the climb, flashbacks are used to show readers how Marren got to the point of needing the climb this mountain. Marren’s high school sweetheart Brody tumbles into an opioid addiction after a career-ending injury. Just months before her climb, he overdoses. Readers learn the intricate details of their relationship in between chapters of Marren literally climbing this 19,341ft mountain. In present day, the climbing of the mountain, Marren is struggling with understanding the addiction that leads to her loss. She confines in her climbing group and Chris, the only single one (other than her) on the climb. But like every love story, their relationship isn’t constant fireworks and Marren arrives home alone, questioning her ability to truly be. Through self-discovery, strength, and determination Marren does find her happy ending.
I truly enjoyed the plot of this story. Brody’s addiction not only leaves him a druggie, but also abusive, this is abuse shines through in her character. Marren overthinks second guesses and is obsessive. She is in her head most of the story. The first-person point of view gives readers an interesting insight into how truly broken she is. Through much of the story, Marren wants someone to save her, it’s not until she becomes her own savior that she is allowed to move on. Marren figuratively and literally had to climb her mountain to find her serenity. The literal and figurative representation of climbing a mountain in relation to grief was unique and was one of my favorite aspects of the novel.
Though, much of this story was told to the readers instead of shown. Clayton’s writing style left me annoyed and almost not finishing the book. It felt as though she didn’t trust her readers enough to be able to put clues together and instead spoonfed us how she wanted us to think of Marren, what would happen, and left little to the imagination. This left the book predictable. What kept me reading was the plot, I knew Marren would get over her fears but I wanted to witness it for myself. Marren and her climb kept me reading. I hope in the future Clayton can show more than tell.
Overall, if you are looking for a love story with a spicey adventure, I do recommend this novel which will be released in February! Those doing the #monthoflovechallenge this would be a great read for a book set in a different country!
Rating: 3.5 stars
Favorite Quote: “I’ve come to prove something. I’ve come to prove that I can do hard things. That I can survive. I can climb a mountain. All by myself.”
December 22, 2021
A real, raw story of one woman’s journey with grief and the growth she endured to move past a very hard time in her life. This was such a great read. I was not expecting it to be as deep and real as it was, but I felt connected to the main character and invested in her journey to healing and moving forward. A quick, beautiful read that feels like a true story.
Thank you Holli Fawcett Clayton for a gifted copy of your book, I truly loved it!
Marren Halleck has the perfect life, she’s married her high school sweetheart and worked to build a great life with him. Only, it’s not as perfect as it seems. Her husband has an addiction and it quickly stole his livelihood and eventually his life. Now Marren is trying to process, grieve, and overcome the battles going on in her head. She decides to prove to herself, and those around her, of her strength but climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. She expects it to be hard, she expects it to be mentally freeing, but what she doesn’t expect is the connections she will make on the trip. Does she even have the strength to move past her troubled past and begin to trust again? Maybe the actual climb isn’t the hardest part after all…
This is Clayton’s debut novel and I cannot wait to see what she does next!
*trigger warning: addiction, mention of suicide, domestic abuse
Thank you Holli Fawcett Clayton for a gifted copy of your book, I truly loved it!
Marren Halleck has the perfect life, she’s married her high school sweetheart and worked to build a great life with him. Only, it’s not as perfect as it seems. Her husband has an addiction and it quickly stole his livelihood and eventually his life. Now Marren is trying to process, grieve, and overcome the battles going on in her head. She decides to prove to herself, and those around her, of her strength but climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. She expects it to be hard, she expects it to be mentally freeing, but what she doesn’t expect is the connections she will make on the trip. Does she even have the strength to move past her troubled past and begin to trust again? Maybe the actual climb isn’t the hardest part after all…
This is Clayton’s debut novel and I cannot wait to see what she does next!
*trigger warning: addiction, mention of suicide, domestic abuse
December 30, 2021
A story of grief and the (literal and emotional) journey to heal. I love the concept of this story, that of a woman who seeks to achieve the goal of a lifetime and bring herself back to life after the loss of her husband. The writing wasn’t my favorite. It felt like reading a journal - which did allow it to effectively express emotions - but didn’t succeed in creating strong individual voices for the key players. The plot as a whole feels like something that would be written by Nicholas Sparks, but lacked the electricity to match. The relationship between Marren and Chris lacks believability at times, and I struggled to trust him after the first half of the book (as Marren does at times), which ultimately lead to a dissatisfying ending for me.
The redeeming quality of this book is the depth of the main character’s emotions. As a counselor and the spouse of a recovering alcoholic I felt that Marren was a very realistic character whose emotions ebb and flow in a believable way. Also, the trek up Kilimanjaro was stunning and inspiring; if I hadn’t read the acknowledgements I never would have known that the author has not been there (yet)!
I look forward to seeing how this author’s writing grows and evolves in any novels that she writes in the future.
*I was gifted a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
The redeeming quality of this book is the depth of the main character’s emotions. As a counselor and the spouse of a recovering alcoholic I felt that Marren was a very realistic character whose emotions ebb and flow in a believable way. Also, the trek up Kilimanjaro was stunning and inspiring; if I hadn’t read the acknowledgements I never would have known that the author has not been there (yet)!
I look forward to seeing how this author’s writing grows and evolves in any novels that she writes in the future.
*I was gifted a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
January 10, 2022
Somewhere Above it All by debut author Holli Fawcett Clayton is a heartfelt story of finding yourself again. Marren Halleck has been dealing with grief for a long time. First, she lost her parents when she was 18. She dealt with that with the help of her then-boyfriend and future husband Brody. After Brody had a bad injury and got addicted to painkillers, she experienced a new grief of living with an opioid addict. When that addiction ended in his death, Marren knew she had to find a way forward and decided that she needed to push herself and summiting Mount Kilimanjaro was the way to do that. Through her journey to the top she rediscovers her strength as well and an understanding that we need human connections in our lives even in times we want to hide.
I enjoyed Marren’s story of her struggles and her perseverance and the characters she meets along the way! Clayton has a writing style that is easy to read - like I was reading Marren’s personal journal - and that made me really connect with her. At times I could really picture being on that mountain! Congratulations to Holli on a wonderful debut novel!
Thank you to Holli Fawcett Clayton and Greenleaf Book Group for an advanced copy to read in exchange for an honest review! I am very pleased to be able to recommend this book! Publication date is February 8, 2022 so be on the lookout!
I enjoyed Marren’s story of her struggles and her perseverance and the characters she meets along the way! Clayton has a writing style that is easy to read - like I was reading Marren’s personal journal - and that made me really connect with her. At times I could really picture being on that mountain! Congratulations to Holli on a wonderful debut novel!
Thank you to Holli Fawcett Clayton and Greenleaf Book Group for an advanced copy to read in exchange for an honest review! I am very pleased to be able to recommend this book! Publication date is February 8, 2022 so be on the lookout!
December 4, 2021
Wow! What an incredible story of hope and triumph over grief and shame. A must read!
I really related to the main character, Marren. I think a lot of women will feel the same way upon reading this lovely story. She is a sympathetic and compelling character, who carries a lot of the burdens for the people in her life. I find myself thinking about her and her struggles long after I finished the book.
I also loved being transported to Mount Kilimanjaro. The vivid descriptions made me feel like I was actually there. As I read the book, I went back and forth between thinking I would really want to experience a challenge like this and also thinking it is way too terrifying. Even if I don’t get to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, I will feel like I know exactly what it is like thanks to this book!
The twist towards the end of the book really surprised me and made for a particularly dramatic portion of the book. And, without giving any spoilers, I was very satisfied with the ending!
Overall, I would highly recommend this book. It has elements that will be appealing to so many different types of readers because it has a lot of action and also is fairly introspective with character development. Most of all, it is a memorable story that sticks with you!
I really related to the main character, Marren. I think a lot of women will feel the same way upon reading this lovely story. She is a sympathetic and compelling character, who carries a lot of the burdens for the people in her life. I find myself thinking about her and her struggles long after I finished the book.
I also loved being transported to Mount Kilimanjaro. The vivid descriptions made me feel like I was actually there. As I read the book, I went back and forth between thinking I would really want to experience a challenge like this and also thinking it is way too terrifying. Even if I don’t get to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, I will feel like I know exactly what it is like thanks to this book!
The twist towards the end of the book really surprised me and made for a particularly dramatic portion of the book. And, without giving any spoilers, I was very satisfied with the ending!
Overall, I would highly recommend this book. It has elements that will be appealing to so many different types of readers because it has a lot of action and also is fairly introspective with character development. Most of all, it is a memorable story that sticks with you!
March 5, 2022
I love the cover of this book. That made me look at it to see if I wanted to read it. I loved the blurb about the book. I DID want to read it! Marren loses her husband to addiction. She's in a small town, full of judgement, full of memories, full of all the people she's ever known and all of her life's experiences. She starts to dream about Mount Kilimanjaro and decides that her late husband wants her to climb it. She uses the expedition as a chance to learn about herself and to push herself to move forward. Her expedition crew is amazing and she comes to love them and possibly find a second chance at love. But things aren't quite what she believes them to be. I love that the author ties up the loose endings at the end of the book.
The writing is good, the story flows well, and you can't wait to find out the end. I think some of the elements of the story could've been fleshed out better and had potential to add more to the story, such as her dreams about summiting the mountain.
If you are looking for a feel good story with a happy ending, this one is for you. TRIGGER WARNING: There is substance abuse, physical and mental abuse, and overdose portrayed in this novel. It is not graphic, but it is there.
The writing is good, the story flows well, and you can't wait to find out the end. I think some of the elements of the story could've been fleshed out better and had potential to add more to the story, such as her dreams about summiting the mountain.
If you are looking for a feel good story with a happy ending, this one is for you. TRIGGER WARNING: There is substance abuse, physical and mental abuse, and overdose portrayed in this novel. It is not graphic, but it is there.
February 9, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for a free eARC of Somewhere Above it All in exchange for my honest review.
Still reeling from her husband's opioid-related death, Marren travels to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Despite being known as a "golden couple" in their small hometown, Marren and her husband had a dark secret. Following an injury, her husband was forced to retire from his promising baseball career. Before long, he was taking pills to cope with his grief over the lost dream. Their marriage was in tatters even before his fatal overdose. Instead of supporting Marren, her town turns against her, questioning whether she was grieving appropriately and gossiping over the circumstances of his death. Marren realizes that in order to move on with her life, she would need to learn to stand up for herself. And what better place to gain perspective, than the peak of the world's tallest freestanding mountain. There she meets new friends, including the attractive and mysterious Chris, who show her that the world still has so many new experiences open to her.
I loved the descriptions of Mount Kilimanjaro and the explanations about the more technical aspects of the climb. I love reading books that take me to new places, and I think this is the first book I've ever read that revolved around a hike up a mountain. I found myself thinking.... "that doesn't sound so bad!" which is probably not what I should have been taking away from the story considering I usually ponder fainting after running for more than 20 minutes at a time. Maybe I'll start with a smaller mountain.
I found myself wishing that more of the book took place on the mountain, as about halfway through the setting shifted back to Marren's hometown. I would have liked for more of her conflict to have been fought while doing the hike (kind of like Wild), rather than the main conflict occurring after she got home. I also wasn't totally sold on the romance aspect because it felt almost out of place or perhaps a bit rushed.
Still reeling from her husband's opioid-related death, Marren travels to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Despite being known as a "golden couple" in their small hometown, Marren and her husband had a dark secret. Following an injury, her husband was forced to retire from his promising baseball career. Before long, he was taking pills to cope with his grief over the lost dream. Their marriage was in tatters even before his fatal overdose. Instead of supporting Marren, her town turns against her, questioning whether she was grieving appropriately and gossiping over the circumstances of his death. Marren realizes that in order to move on with her life, she would need to learn to stand up for herself. And what better place to gain perspective, than the peak of the world's tallest freestanding mountain. There she meets new friends, including the attractive and mysterious Chris, who show her that the world still has so many new experiences open to her.
I loved the descriptions of Mount Kilimanjaro and the explanations about the more technical aspects of the climb. I love reading books that take me to new places, and I think this is the first book I've ever read that revolved around a hike up a mountain. I found myself thinking.... "that doesn't sound so bad!" which is probably not what I should have been taking away from the story considering I usually ponder fainting after running for more than 20 minutes at a time. Maybe I'll start with a smaller mountain.
I found myself wishing that more of the book took place on the mountain, as about halfway through the setting shifted back to Marren's hometown. I would have liked for more of her conflict to have been fought while doing the hike (kind of like Wild), rather than the main conflict occurring after she got home. I also wasn't totally sold on the romance aspect because it felt almost out of place or perhaps a bit rushed.
January 22, 2022
I received this ARC from Goodreads for an honest Review.
Marren Halleck has something to prove. After losing her husband to an opioid overdose, Marren sets her sight on climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro as a way of proving to herself she can overcome hard things.
“I’ve been down for years now, and I’ve come to this place to go up—physically and emotionally.”
While overall I can say I enjoyed the idea of the plot, it felt very jumpy and I actually found myself enjoying the chapters about Marren’s past rather then the ones about her present.
It is a solid read, but all the plot points felt rushed and not fully developed as I usually prefer.
Favorite Quote: “The tonic of life is human connection,” I once read somewhere. At first, I didn’t really understand what this meant. Now, I think I do. I imagine life as some sort of cocktail, like a vodka tonic, defined by its ingredients. The vodka is experience, and the tonic is connection. One without the other just doesn’t seem to work. Experience alone, without someone to share it, is as harsh as a straight shot of vodka. The connection makes it tolerable.”
March 21, 2022
I won a digital copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway (my first giveaway win!) and I was so excited about it that I immediately started reading it.
The premise of Somewhere Above It All sounded SO interesting, however, as I continued to dive deeper into the story, it fell a little flat for me. I loved the idea behind this novel, and I loved how it showed the rawness and realness of grief and the healing process. But I just couldn't connect with the MC as much as I would have liked to.
It was so fun following Marren's journey to summit Kilimanjaro. If I'm being honest, I know absolutely nothing about summiting this mountain and all the things you have to do to prepare for it. I felt like I learned a lot in that aspect while reading this. But, I feel like the author did a lot more telling than she did showing. I wanted to truly FEEL like I was right next to Marren, Chris, and the rest of the Out Yonder crew, but I had such a hard time being able to visualize it in my head.
Overall, this was a quick read, but definitely not light or easy. There are some triggers throughout this story so I would suggest doing your research before you read this! I liked this novel, but I was just left wanting a little bit more from it.
The premise of Somewhere Above It All sounded SO interesting, however, as I continued to dive deeper into the story, it fell a little flat for me. I loved the idea behind this novel, and I loved how it showed the rawness and realness of grief and the healing process. But I just couldn't connect with the MC as much as I would have liked to.
It was so fun following Marren's journey to summit Kilimanjaro. If I'm being honest, I know absolutely nothing about summiting this mountain and all the things you have to do to prepare for it. I felt like I learned a lot in that aspect while reading this. But, I feel like the author did a lot more telling than she did showing. I wanted to truly FEEL like I was right next to Marren, Chris, and the rest of the Out Yonder crew, but I had such a hard time being able to visualize it in my head.
Overall, this was a quick read, but definitely not light or easy. There are some triggers throughout this story so I would suggest doing your research before you read this! I liked this novel, but I was just left wanting a little bit more from it.
December 27, 2021
I want to say thank you to @holifawcettclayton for sending me this ARC copy of her debut book. I instantly fell in love with the beautiful cover and while reading I fell in love with the story. This book is about one womans journey to to self discovery and overcoming her grief. To do this she goes on a trip to climb Mount Kilmanjaro. This book is full of adventure, emotions, dark moments, & heart felt moments. I have to applaud Holli for her detail in this story, while reading this book I felt like I could be there in Africa climbing along with it.. It made me think wow did Holli climb this too and that's how she knows all of this? I loved the detail and thought the writing was wonderful.
This book had my heart feeling so many emotions. I hurt for Marren, I cried for her, I feared for her, I applauded her, I rooted for her, I felt for her in every way and in the end my heart exploded for her and her triumph.
This was a wonderful debut read from this author and I look forward to what she does next.
This book had my heart feeling so many emotions. I hurt for Marren, I cried for her, I feared for her, I applauded her, I rooted for her, I felt for her in every way and in the end my heart exploded for her and her triumph.
This was a wonderful debut read from this author and I look forward to what she does next.
March 18, 2022
What a refreshing take to have a big mountain book written by a woman. Men have had a monopoly on writing about big mountain adventures, and I loved Holli Fawcett Clayton adding a woman's perspective to these incredible adventure stories.
I also enjoyed the change from nonfiction to fiction in the big mountain setting. Yet, this book is more about grief and love and self-discovery more than it is about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro itself. A romance set in such a grand geographical location is unique among other romances, and among other adventure books.
I cheered for Marren during her climb, and enjoyed some of the side characters' stories as well. Overall, a unique read and a good debut novel. I look forward to more from Clayton in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I also enjoyed the change from nonfiction to fiction in the big mountain setting. Yet, this book is more about grief and love and self-discovery more than it is about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro itself. A romance set in such a grand geographical location is unique among other romances, and among other adventure books.
I cheered for Marren during her climb, and enjoyed some of the side characters' stories as well. Overall, a unique read and a good debut novel. I look forward to more from Clayton in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2023
After losing her husband to an opioid overdose, Marren climbs Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
Even though they were known as a "golden couple" in their small town, Marren and her husband kept a secret. Due to an injury, her husband had to retire from baseball. Due to an injury, her husband had to retire from baseball. Even before his fatal overdose, their marriage was in tatters.
Marren isn't getting much support from the town, which gossips about the circumstances of his death and asks how she's grieving. Marren realizes that in order to move on with her life, she has to be able to stand up for herself.
What better place to get perspective than the top of the world's tallest mountain?
She meets new friends like the mysterious and attractive Chris, who show her that new experiences are still waiting for her.
Even though they were known as a "golden couple" in their small town, Marren and her husband kept a secret. Due to an injury, her husband had to retire from baseball. Due to an injury, her husband had to retire from baseball. Even before his fatal overdose, their marriage was in tatters.
Marren isn't getting much support from the town, which gossips about the circumstances of his death and asks how she's grieving. Marren realizes that in order to move on with her life, she has to be able to stand up for herself.
What better place to get perspective than the top of the world's tallest mountain?
She meets new friends like the mysterious and attractive Chris, who show her that new experiences are still waiting for her.
February 8, 2022
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher Greenleaf Group. The story follows a group of people discovering themselves as they climb a mountain together. Marren is the main character who has lost her husband to addiction after an injury he acquired as a baseball player. He turns into a different person than the man she married and eventually loses his life. She is trying to overcome her grief when she decides she will take the challenge she has always wanted to do. On this journey that takes great strength physically and emotionally she has a connection with a handsome, quirky guy. This guy turns out to be someone different than she thought but she discovers a lot about herself on this trip.
I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
December 23, 2021
This breathtaking debut about one woman’s journey of self-discovery to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro as a way to cope with the death of her husband was utterly captivating from the first page to the last. A beautiful portrayal about the power of human connection and the resilience to overcome the unthinkable. This book almost read as nonfiction which is a testament to the research that the author put into creating this well crafted and poetic story. Many thanks to the author for providing me a copy of this book, I can’t recommend it enough.
March 12, 2022
*First off, thank you to Greenleaf Book Group for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review!*
I loved this book! The descriptions of the plant life and the terrain on the way to Kilimanjaro made me wish I was there to see it all myself. Marren's struggle with grief was well-written, and her character was relatable and real. The plot was a little more romancy than my usual reads, but that took nothing away for me. The way it was written was believable, and I found myself rooting for each and every character to find their happily-ever-after!
@greenleafbookgr
I loved this book! The descriptions of the plant life and the terrain on the way to Kilimanjaro made me wish I was there to see it all myself. Marren's struggle with grief was well-written, and her character was relatable and real. The plot was a little more romancy than my usual reads, but that took nothing away for me. The way it was written was believable, and I found myself rooting for each and every character to find their happily-ever-after!
@greenleafbookgr
May 9, 2022
I received this book as a giveway with Goodreads. Overall, I enjoyed the book. I loved the portions of the book that took place during the Kilimanjaro trip. The cast of characters of the touring group were enjoyable and I loved the character of the guide. I gave this book 3 stars because for me, the book started falling off at the end. It almost felt like a different, more novice writer, wrote the ending of the book. I think this could be a 4 star book if the last portion of the book was re-written with a more fluid storyline and less choppy. But overall, I enjoyed the read!
May 24, 2022
This book had me really confused. In one way it had all the makings of something that I would normally enjoy- a woman overcoming mountains in her personal life, dealing with the battle of trauma, and then overcoming mountains in real life and the journey that ensued. It even had a final romance theme. And yet. It all just fell short for me. I found myself feeling disjointed and not really connected with the characters like I had wanted to be. I think that this could be a really solid five star book for someone, but for me it was just flat.
January 15, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I flew through the second half and was very invested. I did guess one of the ends twist reveals but I still enjoyed reading through it. I enjoyed the characters and the different cultures that were reflected. There were some areas that I thought could have been trimmed and sometimes the short chapters made it feel a bit choppy but all in all I enjoyed the adventure this book took me on and I am glad I won it through goodreads.
January 15, 2022
Slow paced at first, short chapters helped me keep going at times. I really liked the description of the scenery, transporting me to the mountain. Marren’s journey through grief was real and relatable with the ups and downs, memories and understandings as she moved forward. I liked the relationships she developed with her climbing group, even though some parts with Chris were predictable. Overall a really enjoyable read.
I received a copy from a Goodreads giveaway.
I received a copy from a Goodreads giveaway.
February 14, 2022
Disclaimer: I received this book as a giveaway on goodreads.
I thought the plot looked interesting, but I felt that the writing ended up being very mediocre. I thought the plot points moved way too fast at the end like she was just hurrying up the pacing to get the book over with. I thought it was very cliché, and I just didn’t like it at the end. I felt like everything was wrapped up in this happy little bow at the end, and that is absolutely what I did not want from this book.
I thought the plot looked interesting, but I felt that the writing ended up being very mediocre. I thought the plot points moved way too fast at the end like she was just hurrying up the pacing to get the book over with. I thought it was very cliché, and I just didn’t like it at the end. I felt like everything was wrapped up in this happy little bow at the end, and that is absolutely what I did not want from this book.
February 19, 2022
Very interesting
I really enjoyed this book. The attention to detail was awesome. I liked how the story flowed and developed. Climbing a mountain is no easy feat. This book is about discovering yourself and how you grow as events and time passes. Spoiler alert!: I didn't like how Chris proposed when the only time him and Marren spent together was eight days on a mountain. Sorry but I am not that much of a romantic.
I really enjoyed this book. The attention to detail was awesome. I liked how the story flowed and developed. Climbing a mountain is no easy feat. This book is about discovering yourself and how you grow as events and time passes. Spoiler alert!: I didn't like how Chris proposed when the only time him and Marren spent together was eight days on a mountain. Sorry but I am not that much of a romantic.
December 18, 2022
It was somehow repetitive, yet inconsistent all at once. The main characters victimhood disguised as courage was aggravating. The two paged chapters and jumping from past to present to future to dream with little to no indication was a constant jarring and confusing occurrence. And the spelling errors were frustrating, however the publishing agencies fault rather than the author. Not a good book through and through with a predictable climax yet an even worse ending than anticipated.
December 17, 2021
This novel transported me to Mount Kilimanjaro. The moments of romance and thrilling twists kept me turning the page until the end. In addition, the style was an interesting blend of travel writing and fiction. I appreciated the references made throughout the book to other writers. I was rooting for protagonist every step of the way (literally). A must read!
January 30, 2022
I enjoyed reading this novel, especially the descriptions of the scenery and culture surrounding Mt. Kilimanjaro. I wish there had been more of a developed connection between the main character and love interest. I just didn’t find myself rooting for them. I received a copy of this book on a goodreads giveaway!
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