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Treading Water
It’s time she made a splash of her own.
When Fiona’s husband ups and leaves on the same day her only son goes away to college, she suddenly finds herself the wrong side of forty and feeling very alone. Fortunately, there’s a distraction of mammoth proportions swimming in the River Thames.
Determined to make sense of the crazy events surrounding her life, Fiona embarks on a journey of self-discovery. But can she juggle her event planning business, a new-found eco-awareness, and a yoga instructor barely older than her son without it all dragging her under?
Treading Water is a poignant and hilarious contemporary fiction novel about starting over. If you enjoy laugh-out-loud antics, second chances and a dash of romance, you'll love Hannah Lynn’s delightful tale that will leave a lasting impact. -------------------------- Praise for Treading Water " Funny, realistic, crazy and truly an enjoyable read." "Quirky, original, made me laugh , made me think - and a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed ." "Fiona has the potential to be the next Bridget Jones I loved her quirky and chaotic take on life and all its events. A perfect read for the weekend." "What I’ve liked the most about Lynn’s other books are the characters and how she makes them instantly likeable and relatable. Treading Water didn’t disappoint." "A brilliant entertaining read." --------------------------- IMPORTANT Treading Water was previously titled Fiona and the Whale
When Fiona’s husband ups and leaves on the same day her only son goes away to college, she suddenly finds herself the wrong side of forty and feeling very alone. Fortunately, there’s a distraction of mammoth proportions swimming in the River Thames.
Determined to make sense of the crazy events surrounding her life, Fiona embarks on a journey of self-discovery. But can she juggle her event planning business, a new-found eco-awareness, and a yoga instructor barely older than her son without it all dragging her under?
Treading Water is a poignant and hilarious contemporary fiction novel about starting over. If you enjoy laugh-out-loud antics, second chances and a dash of romance, you'll love Hannah Lynn’s delightful tale that will leave a lasting impact. -------------------------- Praise for Treading Water " Funny, realistic, crazy and truly an enjoyable read." "Quirky, original, made me laugh , made me think - and a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed ." "Fiona has the potential to be the next Bridget Jones I loved her quirky and chaotic take on life and all its events. A perfect read for the weekend." "What I’ve liked the most about Lynn’s other books are the characters and how she makes them instantly likeable and relatable. Treading Water didn’t disappoint." "A brilliant entertaining read." --------------------------- IMPORTANT Treading Water was previously titled Fiona and the Whale
352 pages, Paperback
Published December 21, 2020
27 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Hannah M. Lynn
44 books976 followersHannah Lynn is a multi award winning novelist. Publishing her first book, Amendments – a dark, dystopian speculative fiction novel, in 2015. Her second book, The Afterlife of Walter Augustus – a contemporary fiction novel with a supernatural twist – went on to win the 2018 Kindle Storyteller Award and the Independent Publishers Gold Medal for Best Adult Ebook.
Born in 1984, Hannah grew up in the Cotswolds, UK. After graduating from university, she spent 15 years as a teacher of physics, first in the UK and then Thailand, Malaysia, Austria and Jordan. It was during this time, inspired by the imaginations of the young people she taught, she began writing short stories for children, and later adult fiction.
With over 30 publications spanning a number of genres and translated into a dozen languages, Hannah has proven herself to be both an accomplished and prolific author.
Now settled back in the UK with her husband, daughter and clowder of cats, she spends her days writing romantic comedies and historical fiction. Her first historical fiction novel, Athena's Child, was also a 2020 Gold Medalist at the Independent Publishers Awards.
Born in 1984, Hannah grew up in the Cotswolds, UK. After graduating from university, she spent 15 years as a teacher of physics, first in the UK and then Thailand, Malaysia, Austria and Jordan. It was during this time, inspired by the imaginations of the young people she taught, she began writing short stories for children, and later adult fiction.
With over 30 publications spanning a number of genres and translated into a dozen languages, Hannah has proven herself to be both an accomplished and prolific author.
Now settled back in the UK with her husband, daughter and clowder of cats, she spends her days writing romantic comedies and historical fiction. Her first historical fiction novel, Athena's Child, was also a 2020 Gold Medalist at the Independent Publishers Awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 13, 2019
When I read the synopsis of this book, I thought it would be a fun, contemporary, chick-lit story. well it was that, but it was so much more. Fiona's life has taken a turn, a left turn and she is not sure what is going to happen next. When she becomes invested in the story of Martha, the whale that is stranded in the Thames, the last thing she expects is a kick in the gut that kick-starts a complete change in her life and business.
Fiona is a typical business woman, busy, blase about the environment, taking on new clients and making money. When she realized that perhaps her purchase of a helium balloon on her son's 6th birthday might have contributed to the death of Martha the whale, she goes into a tailspin. She realizes that she needs to do more and is willing to take the risks to stick to her principals and become an ethical business woman, actually doing something to help the environment. She is dealing with a plethora of emotions. First the empty nest when her son goes off to university, an abandoned wife when her husband of years walks out on her, the loss of her company when her clients abandon this new idea or hers and move on and finally the pride she feels when she sticks to her guns. Is this just a reaction to her husband walking out on her? Some of her clients think that is the case, but guess again. Throw in an ethical, romantic interest who is handsome and smart and it helps to bring Fiona back to life.
I don't want to give away this story because you need to read it. You need to travel the path that Fiona travels in this story. The message about the environment is not subtle and the banning of single use plastics it necessary and real, but it is all wrapped up with a great story. This is a well-written story that is very cleverly done. All of a sudden, you find you’re not just reading a good story any more, but a book that is making you think about the future of the planet. At times it is quirky, at times very emotional and at times sweet, but always enjoyable and definitely thought provoking. This is the first story I have read by Hannah M. Lynn, but I will be looking for more. I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
Fiona is a typical business woman, busy, blase about the environment, taking on new clients and making money. When she realized that perhaps her purchase of a helium balloon on her son's 6th birthday might have contributed to the death of Martha the whale, she goes into a tailspin. She realizes that she needs to do more and is willing to take the risks to stick to her principals and become an ethical business woman, actually doing something to help the environment. She is dealing with a plethora of emotions. First the empty nest when her son goes off to university, an abandoned wife when her husband of years walks out on her, the loss of her company when her clients abandon this new idea or hers and move on and finally the pride she feels when she sticks to her guns. Is this just a reaction to her husband walking out on her? Some of her clients think that is the case, but guess again. Throw in an ethical, romantic interest who is handsome and smart and it helps to bring Fiona back to life.
I don't want to give away this story because you need to read it. You need to travel the path that Fiona travels in this story. The message about the environment is not subtle and the banning of single use plastics it necessary and real, but it is all wrapped up with a great story. This is a well-written story that is very cleverly done. All of a sudden, you find you’re not just reading a good story any more, but a book that is making you think about the future of the planet. At times it is quirky, at times very emotional and at times sweet, but always enjoyable and definitely thought provoking. This is the first story I have read by Hannah M. Lynn, but I will be looking for more. I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
October 16, 2019
Contemporary romance novel
This was not your traditional romance novel but more of a story about survival when life comes crashing down on your head.
Fiona was uprooted and had to find her footing in new circumstances. Flawed and headstrong she makes mistakes and has setbacks but ultimately ends up as a 46-year-old Greta Thunberg. I loved following her bumpy ride to understanding that had its heartbreaking moments as well as hilariously funny ones.
The book is written in a compelling style and I will definitely read more from this author.
Recommend!
This was not your traditional romance novel but more of a story about survival when life comes crashing down on your head.
Fiona was uprooted and had to find her footing in new circumstances. Flawed and headstrong she makes mistakes and has setbacks but ultimately ends up as a 46-year-old Greta Thunberg. I loved following her bumpy ride to understanding that had its heartbreaking moments as well as hilariously funny ones.
The book is written in a compelling style and I will definitely read more from this author.
Recommend!
October 3, 2019
In the beginning I thought it would be a routine chick-lit syoe with some laughs, some tears, and a happily ever after. But I WAS WRONG. This book was bloody brilliant. It was fun, honest, ethical, and so passionate. I loved the emotions the book pulled out from me.
A whale Martha lost in river Thames died after ingesting 20 kg of plastic. Fiona, the events planner, whose son had left home and husband was sleeping with secretary, found herself remembering her son's of plastic toy... Found in the stomach of the dead whale. That brought in a flurry of emotions, shock and guilt being the foremost. And a change occurred. A change in the thoughts, a change in the way of being.
The book by Hanna M. Lynn brought out the real social issue of plastic used everywhere in a fictional tale. I loved how the author remained true to the story where it told me how Fiona got her life back, from devastation to hope. A partner walking out produces the most intense pain, I have seen that. So I could identify with the main character.
To see her start living her life again was a joy to me and inspiring. With the backdrop of her event planning company deciding to go eco-friendly, she lost everything, her contacts, business, but she got her life back slowly, sticking to her principles and living in amalgamation with nature, doing her bit to protect environment and animals in it.
I loved everything about this book, the words, the story, the dialogues, the characters, friendships and relationships. OK, I didn't like that louse of an infidel husband. Him, I could have kicked. But he did evoke my emotions. So I suppose I would let him be and wait for karma to get him
This was Fiona's story written by Hannah in a captivating way, disguised as a chick-lit but in reality delivering a poignant message, filled with emotions and hope. Truly inspiring. And one of my most unexpected reads.
A whale Martha lost in river Thames died after ingesting 20 kg of plastic. Fiona, the events planner, whose son had left home and husband was sleeping with secretary, found herself remembering her son's of plastic toy... Found in the stomach of the dead whale. That brought in a flurry of emotions, shock and guilt being the foremost. And a change occurred. A change in the thoughts, a change in the way of being.
The book by Hanna M. Lynn brought out the real social issue of plastic used everywhere in a fictional tale. I loved how the author remained true to the story where it told me how Fiona got her life back, from devastation to hope. A partner walking out produces the most intense pain, I have seen that. So I could identify with the main character.
To see her start living her life again was a joy to me and inspiring. With the backdrop of her event planning company deciding to go eco-friendly, she lost everything, her contacts, business, but she got her life back slowly, sticking to her principles and living in amalgamation with nature, doing her bit to protect environment and animals in it.
I loved everything about this book, the words, the story, the dialogues, the characters, friendships and relationships. OK, I didn't like that louse of an infidel husband. Him, I could have kicked. But he did evoke my emotions. So I suppose I would let him be and wait for karma to get him
This was Fiona's story written by Hannah in a captivating way, disguised as a chick-lit but in reality delivering a poignant message, filled with emotions and hope. Truly inspiring. And one of my most unexpected reads.
October 15, 2019
When i first came across this book as a blog tour request, i sat on it for a bit - it sounded good but also really random. I mean what on earth - a whale? Oh boy, that Whale is a kick to the feels.
This book was bloody good. We meet Fiona - who is seeing her son off to university and getting ready to celebrate her anniversary with her husband. What she doesnt expect is her husand to accounce he is leaving her after an 18 month affair. This news throws Fionas life into turmoil. As she is wallowing in her self pity, she turns on the news and sees a stuck Whale.
Sad right? Oh no, this Whale is a whole lot more. No one could expect the turn this book takes. I loved the way it was written - i loved the interjection of authors notes, it was like she was reading alongside you. I enjoyed getting to know Fiona, as we spent time with her i learnt initial impressions could be wrong.
This was a sweet read that tackled some deeper issues, it really makes you asses your own life and what good you are doing for the world - even when you think you are doing some good, there is always more. The whale is a symbol for something bigger and i think that is really what makes this book!
This book was bloody good. We meet Fiona - who is seeing her son off to university and getting ready to celebrate her anniversary with her husband. What she doesnt expect is her husand to accounce he is leaving her after an 18 month affair. This news throws Fionas life into turmoil. As she is wallowing in her self pity, she turns on the news and sees a stuck Whale.
Sad right? Oh no, this Whale is a whole lot more. No one could expect the turn this book takes. I loved the way it was written - i loved the interjection of authors notes, it was like she was reading alongside you. I enjoyed getting to know Fiona, as we spent time with her i learnt initial impressions could be wrong.
This was a sweet read that tackled some deeper issues, it really makes you asses your own life and what good you are doing for the world - even when you think you are doing some good, there is always more. The whale is a symbol for something bigger and i think that is really what makes this book!
March 6, 2020
I need to begin by saying I have a problem with the cover of this book. The silhouette of the leading lady in this (I am assuming it is her since the story focuses on predominantly her growth arc) is shown in such a barbie doll-like figure. At the same time, there are multiple mentions of the forty-plus character looking her age. I am more concerned about this cover because the content appealed to me otherwise, and I think the cover lowers the expectations when going in.
Now that that rant is over, I will progress to the story itself. We have overachieving and driven Fiona Reeves, who has poured her heart and soul into her company and does not spare much thought about anything on the periphery of her life including misjudging her relationship with her husband. In one swoop, her well-defined life changes completely, but as the author mentions in between, that is not the end of it. There is more change in the offing. This is, in essence, the realisation of a woman who sees the repercussions of her actions to the environment and then has to deal with the overwhelming weight of that realisation. Having made tentative steps towards lowering my own plastic usage, I know the shock described within these pages and although I do not think my efforts have been sizable ones, I will continue to make them as will Fiona. I have to admit that my bias in having gone through a similar thought process with regards to bulk shopping/ waste reduction, I could relate more to the story halfway through. The author had a unique idea to drop into the narrative multiple times in crucial stages and lay the groundwork for us to empathise with the ongoing narrative.
People should be forewarned that there is a lot of information hidden within about the state of our consumptions and I welcomed it because it increased the depth of the character and the fumbling Fiona did when she had to come to terms with them and what she could do with that information.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience and prior knowledge of the zero waste life.
Now that that rant is over, I will progress to the story itself. We have overachieving and driven Fiona Reeves, who has poured her heart and soul into her company and does not spare much thought about anything on the periphery of her life including misjudging her relationship with her husband. In one swoop, her well-defined life changes completely, but as the author mentions in between, that is not the end of it. There is more change in the offing. This is, in essence, the realisation of a woman who sees the repercussions of her actions to the environment and then has to deal with the overwhelming weight of that realisation. Having made tentative steps towards lowering my own plastic usage, I know the shock described within these pages and although I do not think my efforts have been sizable ones, I will continue to make them as will Fiona. I have to admit that my bias in having gone through a similar thought process with regards to bulk shopping/ waste reduction, I could relate more to the story halfway through. The author had a unique idea to drop into the narrative multiple times in crucial stages and lay the groundwork for us to empathise with the ongoing narrative.
People should be forewarned that there is a lot of information hidden within about the state of our consumptions and I welcomed it because it increased the depth of the character and the fumbling Fiona did when she had to come to terms with them and what she could do with that information.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience and prior knowledge of the zero waste life.
May 14, 2025
Not quite sure what I was expecting from this book, but did not feel like the usual Haanah Lynn I am used too. However, that said does make you think how we contribute to this planet and the daily damage we do!
February 8, 2020
This book was wonderful! It was written very well, easy language, clear storyline and believable dialogue. It was very easy to read and well paced.
Most significantly though, it had a very VERY important message which was dealt with incredibly well.
I will be recommending this book to every person I know.
Most significantly though, it had a very VERY important message which was dealt with incredibly well.
I will be recommending this book to every person I know.
October 4, 2019
It would be wrong of me not to use the word “quirky” somewhere in my review – it’s not often that an author steps out from behind her characters, to check that you’re happy with the story so far, and share her thoughts on where it may go next. But it really works extremely well, and was just one way in which this book proved to be full of surprises, each one more unexpected and delightful than the last.
Now where does it sit in the market? Readers of light romance will love it – the romantic content isn’t heavy, but my word, he’s just gorgeous! It’s one for anyone who enjoys a second chance romance – characters who are a little older, the cheating husband, the embarrassing mistakes, the chance of a happy ending (but only after climbing quite a few more obstacles). It certainly ticks the “romcom” box too – the humour, I thought, was perfectly judged, and frequently made me laugh out loud.
The characters are just excellent – you might not take to Fiona at first, when she’s a rather intense workaholic, but as her character develops you’ll come to love her as much as I did. I really enjoyed her supportive friendship too, as it goes through so many twists and turns. The emotional touch is perfect too, and particularly poignant in its treatment of empty nest syndrome.
And then there’s the biggest surprise of all – this book also has a very strong message, brought into being by Fiona’s concern for Martha the stranded whale. It’s so cleverly handled – from its gentle start at the cafe serving “waste food”, the grocer selling unwrapped and imperfect fruit and veg, through to Fiona’s personal involvement and the havoc it temporarily creates. The way the story builds, with its highly original touches, is very cleverly done – and, all of a sudden, you find you’re not just reading a good story any more, but that the book is making you think – quite seriously – about wider issues and the future of the planet.
I was so impressed by this book and its clever writing – but I also thoroughly enjoyed everything about it. Hannah Lynn, you have a new fan… this book was just wonderful.
Now where does it sit in the market? Readers of light romance will love it – the romantic content isn’t heavy, but my word, he’s just gorgeous! It’s one for anyone who enjoys a second chance romance – characters who are a little older, the cheating husband, the embarrassing mistakes, the chance of a happy ending (but only after climbing quite a few more obstacles). It certainly ticks the “romcom” box too – the humour, I thought, was perfectly judged, and frequently made me laugh out loud.
The characters are just excellent – you might not take to Fiona at first, when she’s a rather intense workaholic, but as her character develops you’ll come to love her as much as I did. I really enjoyed her supportive friendship too, as it goes through so many twists and turns. The emotional touch is perfect too, and particularly poignant in its treatment of empty nest syndrome.
And then there’s the biggest surprise of all – this book also has a very strong message, brought into being by Fiona’s concern for Martha the stranded whale. It’s so cleverly handled – from its gentle start at the cafe serving “waste food”, the grocer selling unwrapped and imperfect fruit and veg, through to Fiona’s personal involvement and the havoc it temporarily creates. The way the story builds, with its highly original touches, is very cleverly done – and, all of a sudden, you find you’re not just reading a good story any more, but that the book is making you think – quite seriously – about wider issues and the future of the planet.
I was so impressed by this book and its clever writing – but I also thoroughly enjoyed everything about it. Hannah Lynn, you have a new fan… this book was just wonderful.
October 22, 2019
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources and Arboretum Press for this free copy.
Animal Death
**This content warning was included by the author for this tour.
I honestly don’t know what I was expecting when I read the synopsis for this book, or saw the title. I usually go into books from Rachel with an open mind, because she and her tours really get me out of my comfort zone. I don’t know why I thought that the idea of having a whale involved would be something charming and fun, but I was definitely dead wrong.
The reason why the whale is involved, why the whale is important to the story, is because of the ever prominent issue of pollution in our oceans today. Most specifically, plastic being eaten by our sea life and killing them. Besides the obvious, why is this important to the story?
One of Fiona’s son’s old plastic toys was found in the stomach of the whale. That brings back a lot of memories of when her family was happy and complete. Now, her son is grown up and out of the house, and her husband cheated on her with another woman and left her. It seems like everything is coming to a head with that realization, and it’s enough to make Fiona’s life come crashing down.
This was the kind of book that brings important issues together in a way that is relatable to just about anyone. Even if you personally haven’t gone through the heartbreak of the one you love leaving you for another person, in essence destroying your very heart and soul, you can feel empathy for what Fiona went though. And to see what she does in the aftermath of this pain, and seeing that she doesn’t just lie there and take it anymore, is uplifting and inspiring for anyone that may be thinking of letting things lie as they are.
Animal Death
**This content warning was included by the author for this tour.
I honestly don’t know what I was expecting when I read the synopsis for this book, or saw the title. I usually go into books from Rachel with an open mind, because she and her tours really get me out of my comfort zone. I don’t know why I thought that the idea of having a whale involved would be something charming and fun, but I was definitely dead wrong.
The reason why the whale is involved, why the whale is important to the story, is because of the ever prominent issue of pollution in our oceans today. Most specifically, plastic being eaten by our sea life and killing them. Besides the obvious, why is this important to the story?
One of Fiona’s son’s old plastic toys was found in the stomach of the whale. That brings back a lot of memories of when her family was happy and complete. Now, her son is grown up and out of the house, and her husband cheated on her with another woman and left her. It seems like everything is coming to a head with that realization, and it’s enough to make Fiona’s life come crashing down.
This was the kind of book that brings important issues together in a way that is relatable to just about anyone. Even if you personally haven’t gone through the heartbreak of the one you love leaving you for another person, in essence destroying your very heart and soul, you can feel empathy for what Fiona went though. And to see what she does in the aftermath of this pain, and seeing that she doesn’t just lie there and take it anymore, is uplifting and inspiring for anyone that may be thinking of letting things lie as they are.
December 10, 2019
I requested this book from Netgalley just because I was intrigued by its name. What was a whale doing in a book name? Was it some kind of Moby Dick? Why was the book giving me chick-lit vibes (I hadn’t read the blurb yet)? Even after reading the blurb, I was at sea. How exactly does a whale end up in the scheme of things? Or was it some figurative tool?
I was clueless. The author had a blog going for some time on this topic which I had no idea about.
Anyway, I started the book with no expectations. I was to be pleasantly surprised!
It talks about 46-year old Fiona who runs her own event management company, Omnivents. She loves what she does and is really good at it. She is especially good at figuring out ways through difficult problems and working through them. Her company works mainly in arranging corporate events, though she has now taken up a celebrity wedding as the bride is the niece of Fiona’s leading client.
Stephen is Fiona’s husband. He holds a high position at Altos Foods and is a workaholic. Fiona’s son, Joseph has just joined university.
Life goes on well for Fiona until one day suddenly, Stephen decides to move out. Fiona still braves ahead, thinking he will return.
Until she reads about the sperm whale, Martha that showed up in the Thames.
From then on, Fiona and the whale’s stories become inextricably interlinked. Fiona’s life choices change radically as well as her priorities.
Does Stephen come back to her? Does Fiona move on? Do her choices change irrevocably?
All these questions and more are answered in this book which falls in the “eco-romance” category (I couldn’t find any other word for it.
Fiona and the Whale is a fast read and good one at that. It is not your typical chicklit but it is not a serious book. A breezy read, if anything.
A few points did irk me, though they are not very major and I’d rather omit saying them at all.
All in all, a good read after a heavy book.
My rating: 4 ½ stars out of 5
I was clueless. The author had a blog going for some time on this topic which I had no idea about.
Anyway, I started the book with no expectations. I was to be pleasantly surprised!
It talks about 46-year old Fiona who runs her own event management company, Omnivents. She loves what she does and is really good at it. She is especially good at figuring out ways through difficult problems and working through them. Her company works mainly in arranging corporate events, though she has now taken up a celebrity wedding as the bride is the niece of Fiona’s leading client.
Stephen is Fiona’s husband. He holds a high position at Altos Foods and is a workaholic. Fiona’s son, Joseph has just joined university.
Life goes on well for Fiona until one day suddenly, Stephen decides to move out. Fiona still braves ahead, thinking he will return.
Until she reads about the sperm whale, Martha that showed up in the Thames.
From then on, Fiona and the whale’s stories become inextricably interlinked. Fiona’s life choices change radically as well as her priorities.
Does Stephen come back to her? Does Fiona move on? Do her choices change irrevocably?
All these questions and more are answered in this book which falls in the “eco-romance” category (I couldn’t find any other word for it.
Fiona and the Whale is a fast read and good one at that. It is not your typical chicklit but it is not a serious book. A breezy read, if anything.
A few points did irk me, though they are not very major and I’d rather omit saying them at all.
All in all, a good read after a heavy book.
My rating: 4 ½ stars out of 5
October 6, 2019
Full disclosure: I was sent a free advance copy in exchange for the promise of an honest review.
Lynn writes books that I genuinely enjoy, and when I realized that I hadn't read this yet and was supposed to have gotten a review of it up... today, I knew that getting it done wouldn't be hard because I ALWAYS blitz through her books.
This one isn't my favorite of hers, but I liked it well enough. She's great with character building and I love how she always adds at least a touch of oddity to her scenarios (in this case, a whale in the Thames). I just... I like the characters in this. I'd be happy to hang out with most of them. I would also really like to eat at the restaurant in this book and I think I want to punch the characters I'm supposed to want to punch.
I didn't think the message was too preachy, and it did get me sighing at the plastic containers in my sink. I do, h0wever, worry about a woman who's just been shoved off an emotional cliff starting a new relationship immediately and becoming, overnight, an all-or-nothing environmentalist. Some characters point out that perhaps the severity of her swing away from single-use plastic might have something to do with the way her marriage was so easily discarded and I have to admit that, to me, a lot of her actions struck me more as unhealthy coping mechanisms in response to emotional trauma, but those possibilities end up getting swept aside in favor of tying the story into a neat package. Of course, that said, I grumped about it once when Lynn did NOT tie a book into a neat package, and I don't actually WANT to read a book about unhealthy coping mechanisms (unless it's memoir; I love reading memoirs about unhealthy coping mechanisms) so I'm not really sure what I have to complain about other than that I've got a quiet certainty that Lynn can do more, can push further, and I want to see her do that.
Lynn writes books that I genuinely enjoy, and when I realized that I hadn't read this yet and was supposed to have gotten a review of it up... today, I knew that getting it done wouldn't be hard because I ALWAYS blitz through her books.
This one isn't my favorite of hers, but I liked it well enough. She's great with character building and I love how she always adds at least a touch of oddity to her scenarios (in this case, a whale in the Thames). I just... I like the characters in this. I'd be happy to hang out with most of them. I would also really like to eat at the restaurant in this book and I think I want to punch the characters I'm supposed to want to punch.
I didn't think the message was too preachy, and it did get me sighing at the plastic containers in my sink. I do, h0wever, worry about a woman who's just been shoved off an emotional cliff starting a new relationship immediately and becoming, overnight, an all-or-nothing environmentalist. Some characters point out that perhaps the severity of her swing away from single-use plastic might have something to do with the way her marriage was so easily discarded and I have to admit that, to me, a lot of her actions struck me more as unhealthy coping mechanisms in response to emotional trauma, but those possibilities end up getting swept aside in favor of tying the story into a neat package. Of course, that said, I grumped about it once when Lynn did NOT tie a book into a neat package, and I don't actually WANT to read a book about unhealthy coping mechanisms (unless it's memoir; I love reading memoirs about unhealthy coping mechanisms) so I'm not really sure what I have to complain about other than that I've got a quiet certainty that Lynn can do more, can push further, and I want to see her do that.
October 8, 2019
Fiona and the Whale is my first introduction to Hannah Lynn’s work, and I’m in love. This novel is so refreshing with a main character (the titular Fiona) being a woman in her 40s. Yes, her husband leaves her on the very day they send their son off to college, thus leaving her an empty-nester in more ways than one, but where this could have been a maudlin tale of being dumped, rather it becomes a “coming of middle age” novel.
Of course, there is also an actual whale, Martha, a sperm whale who turns up in the Thames (not the most hospitable of places for large cetaceans). As Fiona becomes more intrigued and invested in Martha’s fate, she also finds herself more aware of, and engaged in, the state of the world.
Obviously aquatic ecosystems are an important part of this story, but, through Fiona (and Martha) author Lynn also tackles food waste, which is an equally important issue in the contemporary world. The Dumpster Dive Cafe is a fabulous creation, and one I applauded while reading about.
At turns hilarious and poignant, this novel may exist in a slightly heightened version of reality, but the characters depicted within are absolutely real. I especially loved the way Lynn wrote about Fiona and her best friend. Well-written friendships between adult women (as opposed to childhood friends or college roommates) are not often found outside of literary fiction, and I was pleased to see it included here.
Overall, I found Fiona and the Whale to be an immensely satisfying read.
Goes well with hearty seven-vegetable soup, crusty bread, and a glass of wine. Red or white, as you prefer.
Of course, there is also an actual whale, Martha, a sperm whale who turns up in the Thames (not the most hospitable of places for large cetaceans). As Fiona becomes more intrigued and invested in Martha’s fate, she also finds herself more aware of, and engaged in, the state of the world.
Obviously aquatic ecosystems are an important part of this story, but, through Fiona (and Martha) author Lynn also tackles food waste, which is an equally important issue in the contemporary world. The Dumpster Dive Cafe is a fabulous creation, and one I applauded while reading about.
At turns hilarious and poignant, this novel may exist in a slightly heightened version of reality, but the characters depicted within are absolutely real. I especially loved the way Lynn wrote about Fiona and her best friend. Well-written friendships between adult women (as opposed to childhood friends or college roommates) are not often found outside of literary fiction, and I was pleased to see it included here.
Overall, I found Fiona and the Whale to be an immensely satisfying read.
Goes well with hearty seven-vegetable soup, crusty bread, and a glass of wine. Red or white, as you prefer.
September 30, 2019
Fiona runs an elite event organising company. She is super busy and enjoys her work even though it takes up the majority of her time. When her husband makes an announcement on the eve of them going away for their anniversary, Fiona is gobsmacked to say the least but believes that things will soon be back to normal. A news item about a stranded whale grabs Fiona’s attention- she never normally watches TV but had it on for background noise since the house was empty. How one small thing can captivate someone and lead to things they never would have imagined. I can’t say how much this book captivated me. I’m not an eco warrior but I am someone who cares and is passionate about making food from scratch (read this and it will make sense) . When packaging is used rather than take a little time to think and prepare more wholesome nutritional food (I’ll step away from my soap-box now) and the amount of plastics that fill and damage our oceans and marine life. This is a brilliant premise and a clever one that makes you stop and think. This made me think of the picture of how one book can affect things- by a wall being built over it and the irregularity of the wall as it gets higher being exponentially greater. (https://mymodernmet.com/brick-wall-in...)
How a small thing can change so much. I for one know in my life how much this is true. A brilliant entertaining read with a couple of commentary pages from the author which I enjoyed. Keep up the good work Hannah, one plastic bag at a time!
How a small thing can change so much. I for one know in my life how much this is true. A brilliant entertaining read with a couple of commentary pages from the author which I enjoyed. Keep up the good work Hannah, one plastic bag at a time!
November 21, 2019
I found this surprising delightful! I was drawn by the title and cover, but had no clue what it was about. I knew it'd involve romance, but wasn't expecting a protagonist is her 40s, whose husband announces he's been cheating on her for 18 months and wants a divorce on the same day their only son leaves for college.
I also wasn't expecting there to be a strong environmental thread through the story. Plastic waste. Food waste. All the ways we humans waste is tackled and reflected on as Fiona gets obsessed with a whale and it changes the course of her life even more than her pending divorce. I actually thought the book did a good job not being preachy about environmental concerns and all mentions and discussions were done naturally.
I liked that the romance was secondary to the book. It doesn't really begin or develop until the last 1/3, but it was still satisfying. I enjoyed watching Fiona's evolution as a woman.
Only weird bit: the author inserts letters to the readers randomly in the narrative. They made me annoyed... mostly because they broke up the flow of the story when I just wanted to read what would happen next.
I also wasn't expecting there to be a strong environmental thread through the story. Plastic waste. Food waste. All the ways we humans waste is tackled and reflected on as Fiona gets obsessed with a whale and it changes the course of her life even more than her pending divorce. I actually thought the book did a good job not being preachy about environmental concerns and all mentions and discussions were done naturally.
I liked that the romance was secondary to the book. It doesn't really begin or develop until the last 1/3, but it was still satisfying. I enjoyed watching Fiona's evolution as a woman.
Only weird bit: the author inserts letters to the readers randomly in the narrative. They made me annoyed... mostly because they broke up the flow of the story when I just wanted to read what would happen next.
October 2, 2019
Having read several books by Hannah Lynn, I knew I’d be in for a treat.... I wasn’t disappointed. I rarely give five stars for a book but this certainly deserves all five!
Fiona And The Whale is not only a fictional tale of a woman going through a difficult period in her life but also a very timely ethical message about the impact humans are wreaking on the environment. I thought Hannah Lynn got the message across in an very humourous yet informative way and you can tell that this is an issue close to the author’s heart.
A very enjoyable read, I am looking forward to seeing what Hannah comes up with next as her books are always so different.
Thank you to TBC Reviewer Request Group for the ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Fiona And The Whale is not only a fictional tale of a woman going through a difficult period in her life but also a very timely ethical message about the impact humans are wreaking on the environment. I thought Hannah Lynn got the message across in an very humourous yet informative way and you can tell that this is an issue close to the author’s heart.
A very enjoyable read, I am looking forward to seeing what Hannah comes up with next as her books are always so different.
Thank you to TBC Reviewer Request Group for the ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
October 12, 2019
I have really enjoyed reading this, I honestly couldn’t put this down. I managed to read this in less than two hours. It is a wonderful book.
Hannah Lynn has tackled the realistic situation of Fiona’s husband leaving unexpectedly. I absolutely adored the writing style used in this book.
The plot of this book has made me both laugh and feel emotional. This is a book which deserves a lot more than five stars, I feel that five stars doesn’t show how fabulous this book is.
This is my first read by Hannah Lynn but I can 100% guarantee that it will not be the last. This is definitely a must read book.
Hannah Lynn has tackled the realistic situation of Fiona’s husband leaving unexpectedly. I absolutely adored the writing style used in this book.
The plot of this book has made me both laugh and feel emotional. This is a book which deserves a lot more than five stars, I feel that five stars doesn’t show how fabulous this book is.
This is my first read by Hannah Lynn but I can 100% guarantee that it will not be the last. This is definitely a must read book.
October 1, 2019
What I’ve liked the most about Lynn’s other books are the characters and how she makes them instantly likeable and relatable. Fiona and the Whale didn’t disappoint. Going in a different direction from her last books (again) there were so many great moments in the book, often funny and sometime very charming. As well this, it’s an incredibly relevant book for today and address important issues without being preachy. It’s an easy ready and because I didn’t want to put it down, I read it over a few evenings. Would recommend.
October 2, 2019
I'm not sure what it was that I expected when I started but it definitely wasn't an environmental story. Oddly enough, with Greta Thurngard making headlines all over the world, this book is timely and it's well written, some grammatical errors notwithstanding. I found Fiona and the Whale well researched and Ms. Lynn has effectively communicated the immediacy of the situation. Strong, yet vulnerable characters portray the humanness of each one, We all have something to answer for, even if we didn't know it at the time. Let's hope we can all stand up for what we believe in.
September 26, 2019
I received a copy of this book from TBC Reviewers request- Thank you
I love Hannah’s books so to get to read another one early- yes please!! Hannah does not disappoint in this novel rather she delivers a cleverly touching novel of a women finding her way after empty nest syndrome and her husband leaving.
Fiona has the potential to be the next Bridget Jones I loved her quirky and chaotic take on life and all its events.
A perfect read for the weekend
I love Hannah’s books so to get to read another one early- yes please!! Hannah does not disappoint in this novel rather she delivers a cleverly touching novel of a women finding her way after empty nest syndrome and her husband leaving.
Fiona has the potential to be the next Bridget Jones I loved her quirky and chaotic take on life and all its events.
A perfect read for the weekend
September 24, 2019
I was granted an opportunity to read an advanced copy of Fiona and the Whale. I promised to give an unbiased review and here it is; Fabulous!! Emotional in a really good way when Fiona deals with an empty nest and a husband walking out by finding her true voice and maybe a little romance. Funny, realistic, crazy and truly an enjoyable read. You'll love all of Hannah's books.
October 2, 2019
Yet again Hannah Lynn has changed genres for her latest book. Her new novel is very contemporary in it’s subject matter and also very thought provoking. It would be nice if readers took away, not only a feeling of having read a good book, but also a desire to do their bit to help bring about the changes we all need.
October 29, 2019
Overall, Fiona and the Whale by Hannah Lynn was a fantastic book! Even though Fiona has struggles that she has to overcome, I enjoyed the story and how Fiona deals with this hard time in her life. The pacing was fantastic and kept me wanting more. There was always a new twist to the story to keep my attention. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is looking for a great contemporary novel.
October 2, 2019
Another lovely novel from Hannah Lynn about the foibles of the human condition. I particularly enjoy Hannah's books because she is so honest with her characters: they are all imperfect and flawed and make ghastly mistakes just like the rest of us. Fiona is no exception; enjoy the read.
October 5, 2019
I was delighted to read another book from the talented Hannah Lynn and this one did not disappoint. I loved the environmental theme of the book and the characters who I grew to love. Modern and topical, what’s not to love.
October 12, 2019
Who knew that eco romance could be such fun!
I loved this book, but it did make me think.
Its about doing a little bit to try to make a difference and the more that facts and figures are spread about what we are doing to the environment in different ways like this, the better.
I loved this book, but it did make me think.
Its about doing a little bit to try to make a difference and the more that facts and figures are spread about what we are doing to the environment in different ways like this, the better.
October 28, 2019
Loved the parallel story of Fiona and Martha. Lyn has created believable characters with an undisputed and subtle message of trust in yourself, trust in others, trust in the future. The impact of Fiona and the Whale will stay with me forever. A definite must-read.
February 1, 2021
Being a lover of all animals/wildlife, the title had me curious from the start but this book is so much more than the story of a whale. I laughed and cried with Fiona . I also learned a lot from it too. Just read it, you won't be disappointed.
October 27, 2019
I started the book, thinking I would read for a few minutes before going to sleep. I didn't get much sleep that night.......I read the book through without stopping (or getting sleepy)!
November 23, 2019
Loved this book. Enjoyed the story and the message ,it really makes me think about how I contribute to the environment.
April 17, 2025
Lynn tackles divorce, female empowerment and environmental issues head on in this book. I applaud her for taking on these complex issues and presenting them to readers with heart, soul, humor and wit and authenticity. Women in the workforce, aging, dealing with a divorce, trying to reinvent yourself in your personal and work life, and falling in love with a whale and having it die a horrible death and falling in love and having a chapter two in midlife are among the topics covered in the novel that will resonate with women both young and old, no matter where they live. The characters are fully human, complex, multi faceted and very, very real. The book covers a full range of emotion and reinforces the idea that people are full of many, many sides, and life is filled with surprises. Humans can be good and bad, they can make good decisions and the outcome is uncertain, and sometimes feelings can co exist. I felt this book was interesting and insightful. SPOILER ALERT - I was happy and comforted by Fiona getting a chapter two with Rory in the end. Yay! It also reminded me that change can be long, arduous and not a straight line. Our environmental issues, globally, are a product of the way humans are hardwired to resist change and savor comfort and safety. Martha, rest in peace, beautiful girl.
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