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Maybe It's About Time
Two people trapped in their different worlds. One by wealth and one by poverty. Twenty years working for The Firm has given Marcus Barlow everything he wants but has taken his soul in return. Finding a way to leave has become an obsession.
Claire Halford’s life hits rock bottom when she is caught stealing food from Tesco Express. Left alone by her husband with two small children and an STI, her suicide music is starting to play louder in her head.
A chance meeting brings them together. As a mystery virus from China starts to run riot across the country, their world’s collide and they find they have more in common than they knew.
Set in the early months of 2020, Maybe It’s About Time is a story about the difficulty of changing lives for the better. Starting as a funny and satirical view of the egocentric world of professional services, it gives way to a heart-warming story of an unlikely friendship that rejuvenates Marcus and Claire, giving them both hope for a better future.
Claire Halford’s life hits rock bottom when she is caught stealing food from Tesco Express. Left alone by her husband with two small children and an STI, her suicide music is starting to play louder in her head.
A chance meeting brings them together. As a mystery virus from China starts to run riot across the country, their world’s collide and they find they have more in common than they knew.
Set in the early months of 2020, Maybe It’s About Time is a story about the difficulty of changing lives for the better. Starting as a funny and satirical view of the egocentric world of professional services, it gives way to a heart-warming story of an unlikely friendship that rejuvenates Marcus and Claire, giving them both hope for a better future.
- GenresFiction
552 pages, Paperback
Published August 30, 2022
3 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
April 1, 2024
This book literally scared me to death when it arrived - it looked like a stonker - and so heavy (a read at the table kind of book!) - But really surprised me at 'only' 540 pages and I found it a really nice, easy read and nowhere near as onerous as it looked! So definitely, please do not be put off by its size! It's well worth the arm exercise 😉
The next thing that struck me was the cover - a hand-drawn quirky little thing - similar to the old newspaper columns with the little comic strips - fun, unique and shouted satyr! I particularly love the little covid bug floating around out there 🤣 - I could just tell that this was going to be a fun read.
I wasn't sure how I would feel about reading a book that was so heavily focussed on the specific time and troubles surrounding the pandemic in 2020 - but this was truly a joy to read.
Our main characters, Marcus and Claire could not be any more contrasting.
Marcus, a high powered business type who has worked his way up in The Firm for the last 20 years. Bored with the daily grind working in the City while his wife 'swans around' is making him resentful.
Claire on the other hand is struggling to make ends meet in her council flat having been left by her husband with their 2 little ones and no way off the benefits treadmill.
I loved meeting these two alternately through each chapter as we are fed their lives bit by bit. The stark contrast between them so obvious, yet both with their own internal struggles and worries. They were both so completely relatable.
After a chance meeting their lives are thrown together during the first few months of lockdown and we see how community and friendship really drew them together during an absolutely horrific and uncertain time for all. This period was truly life-changing and life-affirming for so many and this was brilliantly depicted here.
It really brought back a lot of memories of a difficult time for all and was a brilliant account of just how life was for so many of us - but this was sensitively written and expertly interwoven with a dark satyrical humour throughout which helped lighten up the overall feel of the book.
Obviously, this was still an emotional rollercoaster - especially the last quarter - and I was shocked by the ending.
It really stops you in your tracks and reminds you to take every day as it comes and to be utterly grateful for everything that we have in the here and now.
I absolutely loved this!
There were some loose ends and I'm not sure whether these will be left for our own interpretation or whether we'll be seeing more from these characters in a second book?
Either way, I can't wait to read more from this author.
The next thing that struck me was the cover - a hand-drawn quirky little thing - similar to the old newspaper columns with the little comic strips - fun, unique and shouted satyr! I particularly love the little covid bug floating around out there 🤣 - I could just tell that this was going to be a fun read.
I wasn't sure how I would feel about reading a book that was so heavily focussed on the specific time and troubles surrounding the pandemic in 2020 - but this was truly a joy to read.
Our main characters, Marcus and Claire could not be any more contrasting.
Marcus, a high powered business type who has worked his way up in The Firm for the last 20 years. Bored with the daily grind working in the City while his wife 'swans around' is making him resentful.
Claire on the other hand is struggling to make ends meet in her council flat having been left by her husband with their 2 little ones and no way off the benefits treadmill.
I loved meeting these two alternately through each chapter as we are fed their lives bit by bit. The stark contrast between them so obvious, yet both with their own internal struggles and worries. They were both so completely relatable.
After a chance meeting their lives are thrown together during the first few months of lockdown and we see how community and friendship really drew them together during an absolutely horrific and uncertain time for all. This period was truly life-changing and life-affirming for so many and this was brilliantly depicted here.
It really brought back a lot of memories of a difficult time for all and was a brilliant account of just how life was for so many of us - but this was sensitively written and expertly interwoven with a dark satyrical humour throughout which helped lighten up the overall feel of the book.
Obviously, this was still an emotional rollercoaster - especially the last quarter - and I was shocked by the ending.
It really stops you in your tracks and reminds you to take every day as it comes and to be utterly grateful for everything that we have in the here and now.
I absolutely loved this!
There were some loose ends and I'm not sure whether these will be left for our own interpretation or whether we'll be seeing more from these characters in a second book?
Either way, I can't wait to read more from this author.
May 27, 2023
Neil Boss has taken two extremes of Life through Marcus and Claire and combined them in such a clever way. I really enjoyed the stark contacts between their lives - particularly financially but how in terms of mental health and humanity it demonstrates how we all can experience issues in our lives.
Claire is a single mum who is broken mentally and financially. Marcus' life is so different with a high flying job and affluent lifestyle but both characters so desperate to get out of their current situations.
Both characters are fascinating and completely imperfect. Claire's story is heartbreaking whilst Marcus Marcus is a little harder to feel for - I think it highlights the problem that mental health issues don't discriminate.
I don't come from an office or business perspective so I'm inexperienced in the matter but I very much imagine that Boss's office workplace satire isn't as exaggerated as you may initially think.
Covid isn't something I would normally chose to read about, however Neil Boss brings it into the story in a way that just adds depth to the story and the character development. He captures the way those times started as something far away and quickly became part of our daily lives. It was such an awful and confusing time for people however so much good emerged too within communities and this is really portrayed in Maybe It's About Time.
It was impossible not to get wrapped in the lives of Claire and Marcus. There are uplifting moments of joy wrapped up in a huge dose of reality. Maybe It's About Time is an intriguing, character driven novel that most people can relate to in some way. I was completely absorbed in their story and very much enjoyed being part of their world.
Claire is a single mum who is broken mentally and financially. Marcus' life is so different with a high flying job and affluent lifestyle but both characters so desperate to get out of their current situations.
Both characters are fascinating and completely imperfect. Claire's story is heartbreaking whilst Marcus Marcus is a little harder to feel for - I think it highlights the problem that mental health issues don't discriminate.
I don't come from an office or business perspective so I'm inexperienced in the matter but I very much imagine that Boss's office workplace satire isn't as exaggerated as you may initially think.
Covid isn't something I would normally chose to read about, however Neil Boss brings it into the story in a way that just adds depth to the story and the character development. He captures the way those times started as something far away and quickly became part of our daily lives. It was such an awful and confusing time for people however so much good emerged too within communities and this is really portrayed in Maybe It's About Time.
It was impossible not to get wrapped in the lives of Claire and Marcus. There are uplifting moments of joy wrapped up in a huge dose of reality. Maybe It's About Time is an intriguing, character driven novel that most people can relate to in some way. I was completely absorbed in their story and very much enjoyed being part of their world.
March 16, 2024
What a truly real, emotional, thought provoking read! Reading this brought back memories of the uncertainty of health and jobs. It's like a time capsule and definitely gets you thinking about what everyone went through at that terrible time. I truly admire the NHS throughout their time during the pandemic and what they did for everyone.
Claire and Marcus's life's were worlds apart but they were brought together by Gavin and what a godsend that was! I really felt like this book got your heartstrings pulled, a young, single mother, living on benefits, trying to get by and do the best for her two children. Marcus, stuck in a job he dislikes just because he's unsure what to do next. His job is stable but is it greener elsewhere? I like how frank he is when it comes to things, such as what times and days are better for 'alignment calls', he made me laugh a few times and I can see people I know in him.
The world needs to know about this book! It showcases what we all went through and puts perspective on different lives and their impact on work or no work and trying to survive through lockdown.
This is a must read!
Claire and Marcus's life's were worlds apart but they were brought together by Gavin and what a godsend that was! I really felt like this book got your heartstrings pulled, a young, single mother, living on benefits, trying to get by and do the best for her two children. Marcus, stuck in a job he dislikes just because he's unsure what to do next. His job is stable but is it greener elsewhere? I like how frank he is when it comes to things, such as what times and days are better for 'alignment calls', he made me laugh a few times and I can see people I know in him.
The world needs to know about this book! It showcases what we all went through and puts perspective on different lives and their impact on work or no work and trying to survive through lockdown.
This is a must read!
February 18, 2024
I found out about this book when I went to The Book Party last year and met the author.
I really enjoyed reading it. The size almost put me off, but it was a joy to read once I started it, and I really like Claire. It took a while for me to warm to Marcus, but he did make me laugh out loud a few times, and I ended up growing to love him!!
The only 2 reasons for knocking off a star - it's all around Covid-19 and very heavy on that, which not everyone will be a fan of reading about. It is quite raw and honest.
I was not expecting the ending to be like it was, and it took me by surprise, emotional!
However, I need to know more about what happens after, her parents' view, the kids' view, Marcus and Alice, Gavin. I needed answers that we didn't get!!!!
I feel there should have been an epilogue or extra chapter to end the story on!!
It was an emotional read, but I enjoyed it!
I really enjoyed reading it. The size almost put me off, but it was a joy to read once I started it, and I really like Claire. It took a while for me to warm to Marcus, but he did make me laugh out loud a few times, and I ended up growing to love him!!
The only 2 reasons for knocking off a star - it's all around Covid-19 and very heavy on that, which not everyone will be a fan of reading about. It is quite raw and honest.
I was not expecting the ending to be like it was, and it took me by surprise, emotional!
However, I need to know more about what happens after, her parents' view, the kids' view, Marcus and Alice, Gavin. I needed answers that we didn't get!!!!
I feel there should have been an epilogue or extra chapter to end the story on!!
It was an emotional read, but I enjoyed it!
June 7, 2023
Set in the time of Covid entering the UK, we follow Claire, a single mum to two young children living in poverty on a council estate, and Marcus, living comfortably wealthwise, working for the Firm in London in a job he now despises.
When Covid hits, their lives are intertwined and we follow their journeys along this pandemic.
This book is a long one, and it does have a lot of description about Marcus’s job which did throw me and start to put me off in the first half, but by the second half I couldn’t put it down, and by the end I was sobbing, so stick with it!
The emotions that you experience is a real rollercoaster ride, especially as the pandemic is not that long ago it brings up memories from lockdown. This book I think will stay with me on my mind.
When Covid hits, their lives are intertwined and we follow their journeys along this pandemic.
This book is a long one, and it does have a lot of description about Marcus’s job which did throw me and start to put me off in the first half, but by the second half I couldn’t put it down, and by the end I was sobbing, so stick with it!
The emotions that you experience is a real rollercoaster ride, especially as the pandemic is not that long ago it brings up memories from lockdown. This book I think will stay with me on my mind.
April 24, 2023
An engaging and emotive novel of our times. This book focuses on a small group of characters in the lead up to and during the recent covid 19 epidemic.
The main focus though are the protagonists Claire and Marcus and their struggles. Claire and Marcus come from polar opposite worlds - Claire is a struggling, single mum of two trying to survive on universal credit, while Marcus works for The Firm, where he makes wye watering sums of money that allow him to live in luxury, but is slowly leeching his soul. The two find a connection through Gavin, a social worker from an elite background, but wrestling his own demons.
Alongside family members and neighbours, this mottley crew and their interactions form the focus, as the pandemic creeps upon them and then rages across the country and their lives.
I became so absorbed by their world and, of course, relived my own experiences of that recent history.
What an emotional read. I became so attached to the characters as they came alive on the page. It is the measure of a great book when I want to find out what happened to them all next. Maybe It's About Time is a page-turner that is a voice of our recent times. #maybeitsabouttime #neilboss
The main focus though are the protagonists Claire and Marcus and their struggles. Claire and Marcus come from polar opposite worlds - Claire is a struggling, single mum of two trying to survive on universal credit, while Marcus works for The Firm, where he makes wye watering sums of money that allow him to live in luxury, but is slowly leeching his soul. The two find a connection through Gavin, a social worker from an elite background, but wrestling his own demons.
Alongside family members and neighbours, this mottley crew and their interactions form the focus, as the pandemic creeps upon them and then rages across the country and their lives.
I became so absorbed by their world and, of course, relived my own experiences of that recent history.
What an emotional read. I became so attached to the characters as they came alive on the page. It is the measure of a great book when I want to find out what happened to them all next. Maybe It's About Time is a page-turner that is a voice of our recent times. #maybeitsabouttime #neilboss
June 14, 2023
I kind of feel like Marcus, the MC, is basically a caricature of your average, fairly well-off modern English business man. Jaded, irritable, nothing is ever quite right or how he wants it, but what will he do about it? Well, he’ll moan a bit, he’ll complain a bit, he’ll pass a few barbed comments at somebody or will be muttering to himself under his breath and generally be right on the limits of being borderline rude under a veneer of politeness before he then just bends over and takes it. Whatever ‘it’ may be … veggie lasagne instead of steak, not the right radio station for his noble music taste, or whatever his latest issue is.
Even though Markus is so annoying (lol) and altogether hard to imagine as a husband, father, and business partner, I found myself wanting to find out what would happen next, what exactly it is this book will be about. I generally felt it was a bit too long and felt like it was dragging in places, especially at the start, when I was wondering where this would all lead. At the same time though, the author’s writing skills are really impressive, and I kept on turning the pages.
It’s not the most uplifting story of all times with the most likeable characters out there, and perhaps it’s a bit too slow and too focused on descriptions of everyday things that don’t really help in getting us to the point, but it is still very real, very gripping, and had me turning the pages. That means somehow it did entertain me a lot. No matter what, I did get attached to the characters and wanted to accompany them on this journey through their lives.
4 stars from me!
Even though Markus is so annoying (lol) and altogether hard to imagine as a husband, father, and business partner, I found myself wanting to find out what would happen next, what exactly it is this book will be about. I generally felt it was a bit too long and felt like it was dragging in places, especially at the start, when I was wondering where this would all lead. At the same time though, the author’s writing skills are really impressive, and I kept on turning the pages.
It’s not the most uplifting story of all times with the most likeable characters out there, and perhaps it’s a bit too slow and too focused on descriptions of everyday things that don’t really help in getting us to the point, but it is still very real, very gripping, and had me turning the pages. That means somehow it did entertain me a lot. No matter what, I did get attached to the characters and wanted to accompany them on this journey through their lives.
4 stars from me!
October 3, 2023
In а wоrld dividеd by weаlth аnd povеrty, twо peоple аre trаpped in thеir own reаlities. Mаrcus Bаrlow hаs еvеrything he ever wаnted аfter working fоr The Firm fоr twenty yеаrs, but he hаs lost his soul in the procеss. He is desрerаte tо esсаpe his gоlden cаge.
Clаire Hаlfоrd hаs nothing left tо live fоr аfter her husbаnd аbаndons her with twо smаll children аnd аn STI. Shе rеsorts tо stеаling food frоm Tesco Exprеss tо survive, but she feels the urge tо end it аll growing stronger еvеry dаy.
A twist оf fаte brings thеm tоgether, just аs а dеаdly virus frоm Сhinа bеgins tо sрreаd аcross the сountry. They discovеr thаt thеy hаve morе in cоmmоn thаn thеy thought, аnd thаt thеy cаn help eаch other heаl thеir wounds.
Mаybe It’s About Тime is а stоry аbоut the chаllenges аnd oррortunities оf chаnging one’s life fоr the better. It stаrts аs а humorous аnd sаrcаstic critique оf the self-сentered wоrld оf prоfessionаl services, but it evolves intо а heаrt-wаrming tаle оf аn unexрected friendship thаt gives Mаrcus аnd Clаire а new hоpe fоr the future.
Clаire Hаlfоrd hаs nothing left tо live fоr аfter her husbаnd аbаndons her with twо smаll children аnd аn STI. Shе rеsorts tо stеаling food frоm Tesco Exprеss tо survive, but she feels the urge tо end it аll growing stronger еvеry dаy.
A twist оf fаte brings thеm tоgether, just аs а dеаdly virus frоm Сhinа bеgins tо sрreаd аcross the сountry. They discovеr thаt thеy hаve morе in cоmmоn thаn thеy thought, аnd thаt thеy cаn help eаch other heаl thеir wounds.
Mаybe It’s About Тime is а stоry аbоut the chаllenges аnd oррortunities оf chаnging one’s life fоr the better. It stаrts аs а humorous аnd sаrcаstic critique оf the self-сentered wоrld оf prоfessionаl services, but it evolves intо а heаrt-wаrming tаle оf аn unexрected friendship thаt gives Mаrcus аnd Clаire а new hоpe fоr the future.
September 29, 2023
I’m not sure any book has given me such anxiety before. It might still be a little too close to the pandemic to read such a detailed account for some of us. Neil Boss brought that fear, dread, and pure terror back to me like I was smack back in the middle of the early days of the pandemic in a way I haven’t experienced since. And I mean that as a huge compliment. A writer who can do that is incredibly talented.
The unlikely relationships built within this novel almost make it worthy of being called a fantasy novel. But they were so lovely and complex in such a way that they seemed so real. The social worker randomly best friends with the rich businessman. The businessman going through a mid-life crisis randomly developing a fatherly affection for a poverty-stricken single mother. All of them weaving in and out of each other’s lives so beautifully. Each character feels so real, and the depth and length of the book give you that nice – but also not nice – book hangover for days.
Sometimes I don’t like any of the characters in a book, but in this one, I disliked very few. All of the baddies were at Marcus’ workplace, and I felt like I was meant to dislike them. We were supposed to want him to leave his workplace as much as all the other people telling him maybe he should. But the long, winding road from Point A to Point Z in this book was nearly as twisty as a thriller. And, as scary as Covid was we could almost argue for some strange new gentle thriller category. Pandemic paranoia thrillers, perhaps?
The exploration of these two vastly different characters was so beautiful. The unexpected crossing of their lives is so mesmerizing. I am pretty sure I experienced most emotions while reading this book, and considering the length there was definitely room to include them all. The first part of the book was definitely a long build-up. No one was really nervous about the pandemic, and it was okay – except for Marcus. Then, as things got real, my anxiety shot through the roof. I think I might have been unpleasant to be around for a couple of days. A good book can do that to you!
I have heard rumors that the author is planning a sequel, and I look forward to that. I want to know what happens next. However, I will admit that the ending of this one hit me very hard. I am a mother of a small child, and without providing further spoilers, this made the ending really hard for me.
Who’s It For
If you’re still triggered by discussing Covid-19, do not read this book. The author did an amazing job of painting the scene. He put you right back in the middle of those stressful early days of the pandemic, and if experiencing that will affect your mental health please protect that. The great thing about books is they will wait until you are ready for them! If you enjoy books that provide social commentary and paint a picture of our world, this book does that beautifully.
Content Warnings: Infidelity, Covid-19, Suicide, Domestic Abuse, Parent Death, Foster Care System, Drug Abuse/Use, Alcohol Abuse, Hoarding, Smoking, Adult Situations, Adult Language, Child Abuse, Religious Talk/Ideas, Sexual Assault, and more
The unlikely relationships built within this novel almost make it worthy of being called a fantasy novel. But they were so lovely and complex in such a way that they seemed so real. The social worker randomly best friends with the rich businessman. The businessman going through a mid-life crisis randomly developing a fatherly affection for a poverty-stricken single mother. All of them weaving in and out of each other’s lives so beautifully. Each character feels so real, and the depth and length of the book give you that nice – but also not nice – book hangover for days.
Sometimes I don’t like any of the characters in a book, but in this one, I disliked very few. All of the baddies were at Marcus’ workplace, and I felt like I was meant to dislike them. We were supposed to want him to leave his workplace as much as all the other people telling him maybe he should. But the long, winding road from Point A to Point Z in this book was nearly as twisty as a thriller. And, as scary as Covid was we could almost argue for some strange new gentle thriller category. Pandemic paranoia thrillers, perhaps?
The exploration of these two vastly different characters was so beautiful. The unexpected crossing of their lives is so mesmerizing. I am pretty sure I experienced most emotions while reading this book, and considering the length there was definitely room to include them all. The first part of the book was definitely a long build-up. No one was really nervous about the pandemic, and it was okay – except for Marcus. Then, as things got real, my anxiety shot through the roof. I think I might have been unpleasant to be around for a couple of days. A good book can do that to you!
I have heard rumors that the author is planning a sequel, and I look forward to that. I want to know what happens next. However, I will admit that the ending of this one hit me very hard. I am a mother of a small child, and without providing further spoilers, this made the ending really hard for me.
Who’s It For
If you’re still triggered by discussing Covid-19, do not read this book. The author did an amazing job of painting the scene. He put you right back in the middle of those stressful early days of the pandemic, and if experiencing that will affect your mental health please protect that. The great thing about books is they will wait until you are ready for them! If you enjoy books that provide social commentary and paint a picture of our world, this book does that beautifully.
Content Warnings: Infidelity, Covid-19, Suicide, Domestic Abuse, Parent Death, Foster Care System, Drug Abuse/Use, Alcohol Abuse, Hoarding, Smoking, Adult Situations, Adult Language, Child Abuse, Religious Talk/Ideas, Sexual Assault, and more
April 1, 2024
Maybe it's about time by Neil Boss.
Two people trapped in their different worlds. One by wealth and one by poverty. Twenty years working for The Firm has given Marcus Barlow everything he wants but has taken his soul in return. Finding a way to leave has become an obsession. Claire Halford’s life hits rock bottom when she is caught stealing food from Tesco Express. Left alone by her husband with two small children and an STI, her suicide music is starting to play louder in her head. A chance meeting brings them together. As a mystery virus from China starts to run riot across the country, their world’s collide and they find they have more in common than they knew. Set in the early months of 2020, Maybe It’s About Time is a story about the difficulty of changing lives for the better. Starting as a funny and satirical view of the egocentric world of professional services, it gives way to a heart-warming story of an unlikely friendship that rejuvenates Marcus and Claire, giving them both hope for a better future.
I was part of a readalong for this book which I really enjoyed taking part of.
This was a really good read. It was different. I liked Marcus. Alice and Olivia. I liked Gavin. I loved Claire. Her story was heartwrenching. I loved Mr mahoney for how he helped Claire. Bought tears to my eyes near the end. This was really well researched. I loved that captain Tom was included. It certainly bought back memories. I'm really looking forward to the next book and in seeing what comes next in the Story. 4*.
Two people trapped in their different worlds. One by wealth and one by poverty. Twenty years working for The Firm has given Marcus Barlow everything he wants but has taken his soul in return. Finding a way to leave has become an obsession. Claire Halford’s life hits rock bottom when she is caught stealing food from Tesco Express. Left alone by her husband with two small children and an STI, her suicide music is starting to play louder in her head. A chance meeting brings them together. As a mystery virus from China starts to run riot across the country, their world’s collide and they find they have more in common than they knew. Set in the early months of 2020, Maybe It’s About Time is a story about the difficulty of changing lives for the better. Starting as a funny and satirical view of the egocentric world of professional services, it gives way to a heart-warming story of an unlikely friendship that rejuvenates Marcus and Claire, giving them both hope for a better future.
I was part of a readalong for this book which I really enjoyed taking part of.
This was a really good read. It was different. I liked Marcus. Alice and Olivia. I liked Gavin. I loved Claire. Her story was heartwrenching. I loved Mr mahoney for how he helped Claire. Bought tears to my eyes near the end. This was really well researched. I loved that captain Tom was included. It certainly bought back memories. I'm really looking forward to the next book and in seeing what comes next in the Story. 4*.
March 31, 2024
This was a bit of a heartbreaker of a book that brought back a lot of memories from the time just before and at the start of the first Covid lockdown in early 2020.
The story follows the lives of two very different families, there's single mum Claire with her two children struggling through the week on benefits and living in a not very appealing block of flats, luckily with good neighbours! Then there is Marcus, he works in the city but the family home is outside London and that's where his wife and daughter are, his son being off at Uni. So during the week he stays in his luxury apartment in London where his neighbour, Gavin, is Claire's support worker and how they meet each other!
There are a lot of issues around food for both families, availability, affordability and veganism seem to all come up often. We also spend a lot of time at work with Marcus and if that's what his job really entailed, I should have gone into mergers instead of accountancy, much less office politics!lol
There is some humour in this book and the ending, well, all I can say about that without giving anything away is that I am looking forward to the second book and finding out what comes next for them all!
The story follows the lives of two very different families, there's single mum Claire with her two children struggling through the week on benefits and living in a not very appealing block of flats, luckily with good neighbours! Then there is Marcus, he works in the city but the family home is outside London and that's where his wife and daughter are, his son being off at Uni. So during the week he stays in his luxury apartment in London where his neighbour, Gavin, is Claire's support worker and how they meet each other!
There are a lot of issues around food for both families, availability, affordability and veganism seem to all come up often. We also spend a lot of time at work with Marcus and if that's what his job really entailed, I should have gone into mergers instead of accountancy, much less office politics!lol
There is some humour in this book and the ending, well, all I can say about that without giving anything away is that I am looking forward to the second book and finding out what comes next for them all!
February 27, 2024
Don't let the sheer size of this book or the talk of covid let this book put you off.
The author Neil Boss has taken two people, both living their lives and has bought them together in a very unique way. One is overwhelming rich, and the other is barely making it by week to week. At first, I just couldn't see how they were going to cross paths, but I loved the way the author introduced them to each other.
I really liked Claire, and I was really able to resonate with her, especially being a single parent myself. Marcus was a little bit harder to appreciate. However, as the story progressed, I felt myself warming to him. Turns out he was quite witty!!
The story is very heartfelt and emotional, especially in the end. Although I felt robbed as I felt the book needed a few extra chapters and more closure. I was left wanting to know the outcome, the parents, the husband, etc. I can only wonder if there is something coming next or if it is really it.
Covid aside, it was a brilliant read, and it definitely took me back a couple of years to our own journey through covid.
Thank you to LoveBooksTours and Neil Boss for the book goodies and readalong opportunity.
The author Neil Boss has taken two people, both living their lives and has bought them together in a very unique way. One is overwhelming rich, and the other is barely making it by week to week. At first, I just couldn't see how they were going to cross paths, but I loved the way the author introduced them to each other.
I really liked Claire, and I was really able to resonate with her, especially being a single parent myself. Marcus was a little bit harder to appreciate. However, as the story progressed, I felt myself warming to him. Turns out he was quite witty!!
The story is very heartfelt and emotional, especially in the end. Although I felt robbed as I felt the book needed a few extra chapters and more closure. I was left wanting to know the outcome, the parents, the husband, etc. I can only wonder if there is something coming next or if it is really it.
Covid aside, it was a brilliant read, and it definitely took me back a couple of years to our own journey through covid.
Thank you to LoveBooksTours and Neil Boss for the book goodies and readalong opportunity.
February 19, 2024
If someone were to put together a time capsule of what life was life in early 2020 when the pandemic emerged, this book would absolutely need to be included! Maybe It’s About Time is a magnificently detailed book about the experiences the world universally felt leading up to the lockdown from COVID-19. Neil Boss creates a world in which dual human experiences are raw, relatable and absolutely gut-wrenching yet told in a way that keeps the reader turning the pages and smiling at the story unfolding before them. Writing this review four years after a life-changing experience that seems like it simultaneously happened yesterday and an entire lifetime ago, this book was beautifully written and a cathartic read. Maybe It’s About Time is a must-read, timeless book that is just perfectly written from beginning to end.
January 26, 2024
An outstanding first novel, filled with fascinating insights and wonderfully crafted characters. A special depiction of the troubled times lived through by the cast as shared by us all. Every chapter contains numerous gems, drawing in the reader and providing both challenge and pleasure in equal measure. A great read.
September 24, 2023
This was my first covid related book and I was worried it was gonna drag just like the pandemic but was happily surprised at the fast paced writing. Our main characters are from two different worlds, Marcus is a Finance Partner, huge house, second home, new cars, privately educated children, money is no issue. Then there’s Claire, after leaving her unfaithful husband she finds herself and her two young children barely scraping by, living in a damp council estate apartment and struggling to feed her family. Gavin is the go between, as Marcus neighbour the two become fast friends enjoying weekly dinners together, Gavin, once a coke addict is now a social worker who works to support Claire. A surprise dinner leads all three to becoming friends and the world seems to be getting better for poor Claire. Only covid hits hard and fast and like many of us know, it’s brutal and without mercy or reason. The three struggle through and try to cope but covid is a killer, and no one is safe
November 22, 2023
A remarkable debut. By turn humorous and moving, never less than thoroughly engaging and reminding us how easily we forget even recent history. If Charles Dickens was alive today, this is the book he would write. My only disappointment is that it is not included in your nominations for best debut. I unhesitatingly recommend this novel and look forward to more from Mr Boss.
April 16, 2024
I admit that going into this I was a bit unsure to how I was going to handle reading about the pandemic, I have generally avoided most books that even mention it for a long time as it felt a bit too soon, but I decided as per the title, Maybe it’s about time. It’s a decision I didn’t regret because this book (although hefty in size I flew through it) was everything, engaging, addictive, emotional is an understatement and just so much of a pleasure to read.
Marcus and Claire are wonderful characters, very , at the start I wasn’t sure about Marcus, but as you get to know each of them as the story progresses they slowly work their way into your . Both so relatable, even though I’m not a single mother or have anything like the lifestyle of Marcus. I loved how this book depicted a time in life we all experienced, but obviously in very different ways but showed common themes we all experienced.
Handled and written so sensitively and with such care, especially that ending (bring boxes of tissues through this book) I thoroughly appreciated and am grateful to have had the chance to experience this wonderful story about a time of life we should all keep important lessons from, whatever they are for each person. Beautiful
Marcus and Claire are wonderful characters, very , at the start I wasn’t sure about Marcus, but as you get to know each of them as the story progresses they slowly work their way into your . Both so relatable, even though I’m not a single mother or have anything like the lifestyle of Marcus. I loved how this book depicted a time in life we all experienced, but obviously in very different ways but showed common themes we all experienced.
Handled and written so sensitively and with such care, especially that ending (bring boxes of tissues through this book) I thoroughly appreciated and am grateful to have had the chance to experience this wonderful story about a time of life we should all keep important lessons from, whatever they are for each person. Beautiful
August 8, 2024
What a fabulous read!! I was introduced to this book by a friend and devoured it in 2 days. A plot that simply resonates for everyone that struggled but overcame Covid and lockdown - this book touches the heart, it inspires the reader to get behind the characters and to really will them on. It made me laugh, it definitely made me cry but most of all it made me believe in the power of human kindness. Don’t go on holiday without this book in your hand luggage!
April 1, 2024
Marcus has everything anyone could ever want. A well-paying job, a wife and kids, and multiple properties. He lives a life of financial stability and never has to wonder about paying for anything. But he has lost a part of himself working for a firm that his heart just isn’t in. Claire has nothing after her husbands abandons her. She’s 25 years old, has two small children, and an STI as a parting gift. Resorting to stealing from Tesco’s to ensure her kids can eat, Claire never imagined that her life would end up like this.
Marcus and Claire are brought together and become the unlikeliest of friends, just as COVID-19 begins to spread. They help each other cope with day to day life, with their lives bringing their own problems and concerns, and they are a vital support to each other amidst the incredibly tough times that they face.
What starts as a social critique on modern day society and the skewed priorities that many have, especially those in Marcus’ position and firm, becomes so much more. Maybe It’s About Time evolves into a truly heartwarming yet heart-wrenching story of friendship, love and loss amidst the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic. Raw, emotive and engaging, this story continues to reel you in with its incredible character development and a plot that feels all too relatable. This book, with its lovable cast of characters makes you believe once again in human compassion and that friends really can be found in the most unlikely of places. If the plot and characters were not enough to make you believe, all royalties from the book sales go towards supporting the Gingerbread Charity.
This is a book that must be read and shared. Thank you to Love Books Tours and Neil Boss for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Marcus and Claire are brought together and become the unlikeliest of friends, just as COVID-19 begins to spread. They help each other cope with day to day life, with their lives bringing their own problems and concerns, and they are a vital support to each other amidst the incredibly tough times that they face.
What starts as a social critique on modern day society and the skewed priorities that many have, especially those in Marcus’ position and firm, becomes so much more. Maybe It’s About Time evolves into a truly heartwarming yet heart-wrenching story of friendship, love and loss amidst the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic. Raw, emotive and engaging, this story continues to reel you in with its incredible character development and a plot that feels all too relatable. This book, with its lovable cast of characters makes you believe once again in human compassion and that friends really can be found in the most unlikely of places. If the plot and characters were not enough to make you believe, all royalties from the book sales go towards supporting the Gingerbread Charity.
This is a book that must be read and shared. Thank you to Love Books Tours and Neil Boss for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2024
What a read! For a big ol’ book, I sped through this! Perhaps it is because it is set in a world and a time that was so memorable for a lot of us - 2020!
Marcus and Claire live very different lives; Marcus works for the Firm, has lots of money, and although missed a lot of his children growing up, they never went without. Claire, a single mother of 2 young children, has been left by her husband, and is on benefits, struggling to make ends meet.
Brought together by Gavin (unusually so!), they learn that their perceptions of the ‘other half’ isn’t always as it seems.
Each chapter is ended with a date, and it just so happened that it echoed very closely to the current date, which made it all the more real.
Without wanting to give it all away, I expected Claire’s ending, but didn’t expect Marcus’, but loved him first it!
Marcus and Claire live very different lives; Marcus works for the Firm, has lots of money, and although missed a lot of his children growing up, they never went without. Claire, a single mother of 2 young children, has been left by her husband, and is on benefits, struggling to make ends meet.
Brought together by Gavin (unusually so!), they learn that their perceptions of the ‘other half’ isn’t always as it seems.
Each chapter is ended with a date, and it just so happened that it echoed very closely to the current date, which made it all the more real.
Without wanting to give it all away, I expected Claire’s ending, but didn’t expect Marcus’, but loved him first it!
January 24, 2024
This story is a time capsule, a look back at the fear and surreal experience of lockdown in 2020, the news bulletins and headlines and the nhs battling on… while these two characters are desperately trying to find themselves and purpose (in poverty and in wealth). Their unexpected meeting (via Gavin a charming neighbour/social worker), forms this friendship and the first hope of a better life in each of them.
Without adding any spoilers… several moments in this were a gut punch! So many feelings! And at first, Marcus was not a likeable POV at all 🤣 but he definitely grew on me, as he learned some life lessons. The references to the isolation, the playlists of music, the interactions with the different worlds of ‘The Firm’ and the housing estate, was so brilliant. A fantastic emotional funny meaningful relatable rollercoaster of a novel!
Without adding any spoilers… several moments in this were a gut punch! So many feelings! And at first, Marcus was not a likeable POV at all 🤣 but he definitely grew on me, as he learned some life lessons. The references to the isolation, the playlists of music, the interactions with the different worlds of ‘The Firm’ and the housing estate, was so brilliant. A fantastic emotional funny meaningful relatable rollercoaster of a novel!
May 31, 2023
Book source ~ TWR Tour
Marcus Barlow and Claire Halford live two very different lives in the UK, but their orbits are about to collide in the days leading up to the outbreak of Covid-19 and beyond.
When I first saw what a chonky book this is I thought it would take me forever to get through. However, it’s a fairly easy read and the pages turn faster than anticipated. It goes back and forth between Claire and Marcus with some Gavin thrown in. I can relate more to Claire than Marcus and even Gavin. I’ve never had much money, so had to make do with what I could afford. And that includes food. This book contains more references to swanky food and fancy cooking than I could enjoy. Mostly because I loathe cooking so that’s a totally personal opinion.
I really like how Marcus describes his workplace and the interactions with his coworkers. I’ve never worked in a large company so it’s fascinating to read about. I even like how he’s become disenchanted with his job and how he flounders on what to do about it. It’s hard to push off into the great unknown and sometimes we need a big kick in the ass to do it.
Claire’s struggle is very real to me personally and thus all the more heart wrenching. Every page turn had me rooting for her all the harder. I cheered her on when she waffled about meeting a new mother for coffee and then working for her. But then Covid-19 rolled into town and I was transported back to what it was like here in the US. Scary, bleak, and ridiculous at times. And I mentioned scary, right? What a kick in the ass this reminder is. Maybe too soon, maybe not. It’s still a story I have strong feelings about. Even if it seems to be slow going in places, it’s well worth the read.
Marcus Barlow and Claire Halford live two very different lives in the UK, but their orbits are about to collide in the days leading up to the outbreak of Covid-19 and beyond.
When I first saw what a chonky book this is I thought it would take me forever to get through. However, it’s a fairly easy read and the pages turn faster than anticipated. It goes back and forth between Claire and Marcus with some Gavin thrown in. I can relate more to Claire than Marcus and even Gavin. I’ve never had much money, so had to make do with what I could afford. And that includes food. This book contains more references to swanky food and fancy cooking than I could enjoy. Mostly because I loathe cooking so that’s a totally personal opinion.
I really like how Marcus describes his workplace and the interactions with his coworkers. I’ve never worked in a large company so it’s fascinating to read about. I even like how he’s become disenchanted with his job and how he flounders on what to do about it. It’s hard to push off into the great unknown and sometimes we need a big kick in the ass to do it.
Claire’s struggle is very real to me personally and thus all the more heart wrenching. Every page turn had me rooting for her all the harder. I cheered her on when she waffled about meeting a new mother for coffee and then working for her. But then Covid-19 rolled into town and I was transported back to what it was like here in the US. Scary, bleak, and ridiculous at times. And I mentioned scary, right? What a kick in the ass this reminder is. Maybe too soon, maybe not. It’s still a story I have strong feelings about. Even if it seems to be slow going in places, it’s well worth the read.
April 1, 2024
Neil Boss Trudy took me on an emotional rollercoaster with this book. A laughed, I cried, I got angry, frustrated, laughed again and then wept 😭 I’m blown away at what an impact this book had on me while reading, and I think will definitely be a story that stays with me forever.
I loved every single character in this book that we meet (except one…you know who 😡) but my absolute favourite was Mr Mahoney, I literally wanted to reach through the pages and hug him. He is such a sweetheart. ❤️
I’m still in shock with how this book ended and really need a sequel!
Neil Boss… thank you so much for writing such a thought provoking read I really enjoyed your book!!
I loved every single character in this book that we meet (except one…you know who 😡) but my absolute favourite was Mr Mahoney, I literally wanted to reach through the pages and hug him. He is such a sweetheart. ❤️
I’m still in shock with how this book ended and really need a sequel!
Neil Boss… thank you so much for writing such a thought provoking read I really enjoyed your book!!
October 17, 2022
Writing: 5/5 Characters: 5/5 Plot: 4/5
A book for our times, this book tackles the Covid era through the intimate stories of two very different people who meet by chance and end up having a surprising impact on each other. Marcus Barlow has everything money can buy, but hates almost every instant of his existence. He works for “The Firm” which is a Dilbertian take on management consulting. It all sounds over the top, and the language is heavily laced in satire, but having lived this myself, I know it’s not terribly exaggerated!. Claire Halford has literally nothing money can buy as she hasn’t any money — only two small children and an STI gifted to her by her adulterous (and now long gone) husband.
When Covid enters the picture — first as a scary whisper and later with a terrifying bang, both characters (along with Marcus’ family, Claire’s neighbors, and Gavin — Marcus’ friend and Claire’s social worker) — are tumbled along in its wake.
There is not a single cliche in this book, despite the fact that the plot could easily have descended into any of the multiple opportunities for banality. We watch each person — from the main characters to the many supporting characters — navigate the confusing, overwhelming, and stressful landscape of lockdowns, shortages, and sudden deaths. As we watch, the taxing times give rise to surprising self knowledge and hidden depths of kindness, compassion, and the desire to behave ethically, despite the discomfort inherent in doing so.
As an aside, the book had a great “soundtrack” as Marcus played different tunes to support his moods (I recognized and liked every one). Also, excellent descriptions of food from multiple tables — from the over-the-top meals for Partners at The Firm, to high end bachelor cooking, to children’s meals cobbled together from discount tins, to vegan meals offered to the unenthused. The author also managed to show empathy for many situations without descending into blame or broadcasting heavy handed social agendas and he spiced the entire book with plenty of humorous and dead accurate social commentary. Very good writing — reminds me of David Lodge who is one of my favorite British authors with the same kind of precise, intuitive writing.
Highly recommended.
A book for our times, this book tackles the Covid era through the intimate stories of two very different people who meet by chance and end up having a surprising impact on each other. Marcus Barlow has everything money can buy, but hates almost every instant of his existence. He works for “The Firm” which is a Dilbertian take on management consulting. It all sounds over the top, and the language is heavily laced in satire, but having lived this myself, I know it’s not terribly exaggerated!. Claire Halford has literally nothing money can buy as she hasn’t any money — only two small children and an STI gifted to her by her adulterous (and now long gone) husband.
When Covid enters the picture — first as a scary whisper and later with a terrifying bang, both characters (along with Marcus’ family, Claire’s neighbors, and Gavin — Marcus’ friend and Claire’s social worker) — are tumbled along in its wake.
There is not a single cliche in this book, despite the fact that the plot could easily have descended into any of the multiple opportunities for banality. We watch each person — from the main characters to the many supporting characters — navigate the confusing, overwhelming, and stressful landscape of lockdowns, shortages, and sudden deaths. As we watch, the taxing times give rise to surprising self knowledge and hidden depths of kindness, compassion, and the desire to behave ethically, despite the discomfort inherent in doing so.
As an aside, the book had a great “soundtrack” as Marcus played different tunes to support his moods (I recognized and liked every one). Also, excellent descriptions of food from multiple tables — from the over-the-top meals for Partners at The Firm, to high end bachelor cooking, to children’s meals cobbled together from discount tins, to vegan meals offered to the unenthused. The author also managed to show empathy for many situations without descending into blame or broadcasting heavy handed social agendas and he spiced the entire book with plenty of humorous and dead accurate social commentary. Very good writing — reminds me of David Lodge who is one of my favorite British authors with the same kind of precise, intuitive writing.
Highly recommended.
December 3, 2023
This is a cracking read. Maybe It’s About Time is quite a big book, but don’t let that put you off - by the end you will wish it was bigger and that there was more to read.
The book starts at the time when very small paragraphs of news were appearing in our newspapers about a virus in China and continues right into the pandemic. There were so many times when I exclaimed to myself”Yes that’s exactly how I felt”
There are three main characters - Claire, Marcus and Gavin and a number of strong supporting characters. This novel bit close to home for me and took me on a rollercoaster of an emotional journey; at times I laughed out loud and at other times there were tears pouring down my face. The book cleverly teases out how relationships, both personal and professional, during Covid changed for many of us. Some became much stronger and others struggled to survive the pandemic. It also allows us to examine, through the characters, how many of us took stock of our lives and really thought about what we were doing and what we wanted to do rather than staying on the same hamster wheel of life. I loved Neil’s use of language, it was so relatable and you could imagine him, or the character, standing in the same room expressing those same views in that same language. I will never refer to Waitrose as anything other than The Temple again.
It is also very real and doesn’t shy away from difficult situations but instead of feeling uncomfortable reading about them it made me feel empowered to want to change things in my own life.
I would highly recommend this book and am hoping very much that Neil will write a sequel, there is much to still know about how the characters will continue to move forwards with their lives.
The book starts at the time when very small paragraphs of news were appearing in our newspapers about a virus in China and continues right into the pandemic. There were so many times when I exclaimed to myself”Yes that’s exactly how I felt”
There are three main characters - Claire, Marcus and Gavin and a number of strong supporting characters. This novel bit close to home for me and took me on a rollercoaster of an emotional journey; at times I laughed out loud and at other times there were tears pouring down my face. The book cleverly teases out how relationships, both personal and professional, during Covid changed for many of us. Some became much stronger and others struggled to survive the pandemic. It also allows us to examine, through the characters, how many of us took stock of our lives and really thought about what we were doing and what we wanted to do rather than staying on the same hamster wheel of life. I loved Neil’s use of language, it was so relatable and you could imagine him, or the character, standing in the same room expressing those same views in that same language. I will never refer to Waitrose as anything other than The Temple again.
It is also very real and doesn’t shy away from difficult situations but instead of feeling uncomfortable reading about them it made me feel empowered to want to change things in my own life.
I would highly recommend this book and am hoping very much that Neil will write a sequel, there is much to still know about how the characters will continue to move forwards with their lives.
May 24, 2024
I had the pleasure of meeting Neil at The Book Party and subsequently purchased this book. It’s definitely not something I would normally go for at over 500 pages and a quirky hand drawn cover.
It’s set at the beginning of 2020, in the run up to the pandemic.
Marcus is a corporate man with money, he has no real idea how it is to live in an everyday climate.
Claire is the opposite, all she knows is having to live from week to week on her benefits as a single mum of 2 children.
It was heartbreaking to read about Claire’s struggles as a single mum. As a parent myself I know how hard it can be to rear children but I have a fab husband and very close family. Claire had no one.
Marcus’s chapters were a bit boring to start with. He was a funny guy but his job was so boring to me. It wasn’t long though until he started going rogue which was much more exciting to read.
This is a fantastic character driven book and I’m so looking forward to seeing where the characters go next. It’s not nice to read about the pandemic but it was so interesting reading about it 4 years later.
I can’t go into a lot of detail without spoiling things but it really was fantastic.
The plus side to purchasing this book is that your money will go towards a charity for single parents. A good book supporting a good cause.
It’s set at the beginning of 2020, in the run up to the pandemic.
Marcus is a corporate man with money, he has no real idea how it is to live in an everyday climate.
Claire is the opposite, all she knows is having to live from week to week on her benefits as a single mum of 2 children.
It was heartbreaking to read about Claire’s struggles as a single mum. As a parent myself I know how hard it can be to rear children but I have a fab husband and very close family. Claire had no one.
Marcus’s chapters were a bit boring to start with. He was a funny guy but his job was so boring to me. It wasn’t long though until he started going rogue which was much more exciting to read.
This is a fantastic character driven book and I’m so looking forward to seeing where the characters go next. It’s not nice to read about the pandemic but it was so interesting reading about it 4 years later.
I can’t go into a lot of detail without spoiling things but it really was fantastic.
The plus side to purchasing this book is that your money will go towards a charity for single parents. A good book supporting a good cause.
June 4, 2023
This amazing story takes us on a trip into the world of corporate business in the City of London followed by a glimpse into the experiences of lockdown under the recent covid pandemic.
Wrapped up in a cleverly constructed and professionally researched easy-to-read narrative, we meet a plethora of wonderfully genuine real and make-believe characters that bring the adventure to life, whilst allowing the reader to delve into the relationships between them, accurately identifying, highlighting and enhancing some of the good, the bad, and the downright ugly aspects that undoubtedly exist within human nature.
Definitely a case of 'Two tales in one City' which run in parallel, whilst never ceasing to impress and entertain in so many ways. I eagerly look forward to discovering the treasures hidden in the sequel which I believe should be arriving sometime this year.
Highly recommended - thank you Mr Boss, certainly a job well done!
Rating: 4.7 stars.
Wrapped up in a cleverly constructed and professionally researched easy-to-read narrative, we meet a plethora of wonderfully genuine real and make-believe characters that bring the adventure to life, whilst allowing the reader to delve into the relationships between them, accurately identifying, highlighting and enhancing some of the good, the bad, and the downright ugly aspects that undoubtedly exist within human nature.
Definitely a case of 'Two tales in one City' which run in parallel, whilst never ceasing to impress and entertain in so many ways. I eagerly look forward to discovering the treasures hidden in the sequel which I believe should be arriving sometime this year.
Highly recommended - thank you Mr Boss, certainly a job well done!
Rating: 4.7 stars.
April 1, 2024
Maybe it’s about time is about two people from very different backgrounds.
There is nothing Marcus doesn't have in life. He works at the top firm, he has money, and he has everything.
To ensure that her children live a comfortable life, Claire lives on the breadline, saving and scrimping to make ends meet.
After being abandoned by her husband and facing the Coronavirus lockdown, her mental health is deteriorating.
The book takes place in 2020, based on the Covid lockdown. I found it humorous at times, emotional at others, and reminiscent at others.
The way in which the two main characters' stories were woven together was really good, and I look forward to reading more after reading this book.
There is nothing Marcus doesn't have in life. He works at the top firm, he has money, and he has everything.
To ensure that her children live a comfortable life, Claire lives on the breadline, saving and scrimping to make ends meet.
After being abandoned by her husband and facing the Coronavirus lockdown, her mental health is deteriorating.
The book takes place in 2020, based on the Covid lockdown. I found it humorous at times, emotional at others, and reminiscent at others.
The way in which the two main characters' stories were woven together was really good, and I look forward to reading more after reading this book.
December 12, 2023
I usually avoid books that are based on real life issues, as I read for escapism. But I’m so glad Neil took me to the book shop and got me to buy his book.
I thought this book was so well written that I was still able to escape. I found it heartwarming, lighthearted. Yet really emotional and was sobbing at the end. The friendship building of two worlds apart people was so unique and felt so special, and the way it was written allowed me to really get to know and get attached to the characters.
It’s safe to say this book gave me a massive hangover and I cannot wait to see whatever Neil does next!
I thought this book was so well written that I was still able to escape. I found it heartwarming, lighthearted. Yet really emotional and was sobbing at the end. The friendship building of two worlds apart people was so unique and felt so special, and the way it was written allowed me to really get to know and get attached to the characters.
It’s safe to say this book gave me a massive hangover and I cannot wait to see whatever Neil does next!
May 31, 2023
My review can be found on my website here
https://bookread2day.wordpress.com/20...
Please buy this book as all of the authors royalties will be going to the charity, Gingerbread, the single parent support organisation.
Maybe It’s About Time, is the best fiction novel I’ve read in a long time. This book comes highly recommended by me!
This story of Maybe It’s About Time, is set in the early months of 2020. This story takes place during the pandemic lockdown.
This fantastic story keeps the reader interested in this heartbreaking world of Claire who been caught stealing food from Tesco, whose on Universal Credit, that is running out, trying to balance her money feeding herself and her little ones.
I had tears streaming down my face feeling really sorry for Claire. The author has got right into a single parent’s mind struggling with heating bills, food, and for new clothes for children which grow so fast they are always needing new clothes and shoes regularly.
Reading about Claire were my favourite chapters as I could relate to her, as over 32 years ago I was a single parent, and I know what’s it’s like struggling to pay heating bills, buy food and pay for new clothes for my daughters.
The story gives takes a special bond between Marcus and Claire, in an unexpected way.
I had tears streaming down my face as I read the chapters about Claire.
I 100% recommend reading Maybe It’s About Time, by author Neil Boss.
Take my advice this is a very touching story where you will need plenty of tissue ready!
( I know you will all want to know more about this novel after reading a little about Claire)
Part of a chapter about Claire.
‘Can we have Haribo, Mummy?’
‘Just wait Kyle, we’ll see.’
‘I’ll get some!’ Said the little boy and started to run.
‘Kyle wait I said!’
The woman grabbed the little boy by his hood and dragged him back to the buggy.
‘ Just do as you’re told,’ she shouted as she shock her by the arm.
The little boy’s lip quivered and he started to cry, tears mixing with the snot. He wiped his nose on his sleeve and wiped his sleeve on Spiderman. The little girl looked up and continued eating raisins. The woman put two bottles of sugar-free Ribena in her bag and moved along the isles to the sweets. They got to the Haribo display and she stopped. She felt bad for shouting at her son. ‘Okay, what do you want then?’ She said, looking down at him.
The little boy’s face lit up and he pointed to a bag of Haribo Milkshakes. She took a bag, opened it and gave him a banana milkshake. He was happy and quiet now. She approached the self -service checkout. They were all busy and she waited until one became available.
‘Please scan your first item,’ said the voice.
She scanned two packets of mince, the machine emitting it’s little boop noise.
‘Please place your items on the shelf.’
She put the packets of mince in one of her bags, and took out the two remaining packets and put them directly in her bag. She repeated this process until her shopping bag was empty.
Two for you, two for me, she thought. Every little helps. The electronic display showed the total of £42.65.
‘Please scan your Tesco Clubcard,’ said the voice. She scanned her Clubcard. Tesco knew a lot about her shopping habits, but not everything.
‘Please select payment type.’
She opened her purse, just over two pounds in loose coins. By the middle of the month, there was little left of her Universal Credit to feed her family. There was only one payment type, her credit card. She had extended her limit three times and would soon be extending it again. She entered her PIN, held her breath, said a prayer and waited.
‘Payment accepted. Would you like a receipt?’ Said the voice.
The machine regurgitated a roll of paper and she stuffed it into one of the plastic bags. Kyle was chewing on another banana milkshake, and he held her arm as they walked to the door. The security guard stood in front of her, arms folded, barring her way to the exit. ‘
‘Excused me. Would you mind if I look in your bags?’
‘Why?’ Is there something you want?’ she said, flippantly.
‘Is this your shopping?’
‘Well, whose do you think it is? Angelina Jolies?’ She could feel her heart starting to race, her breathing becoming heavier.
‘Don’t get smart. Just open your bags. Do you have your receipt?’ said the security guard.
She shrugged her shoulders, opened her arms and gestured for him to take a look.
He unfurled the crumpled receipt and poked around. ‘Mmm it seems you haven’t scanned everything in your bags, have you? In fact, you seem to have forgotten quite a lot.’
‘Have some items not gone through?’ she said. Those machines are quite unreliable, you know?’
‘Come off it. Just admit it, you were nicking. ‘I’ve had my eye on you the whole time. I’m calling the store manager. Don’t move an inch!’
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Please buy this book as all of the authors royalties will be going to the charity, Gingerbread, the single parent support organisation.
Maybe It’s About Time, is the best fiction novel I’ve read in a long time. This book comes highly recommended by me!
This story of Maybe It’s About Time, is set in the early months of 2020. This story takes place during the pandemic lockdown.
This fantastic story keeps the reader interested in this heartbreaking world of Claire who been caught stealing food from Tesco, whose on Universal Credit, that is running out, trying to balance her money feeding herself and her little ones.
I had tears streaming down my face feeling really sorry for Claire. The author has got right into a single parent’s mind struggling with heating bills, food, and for new clothes for children which grow so fast they are always needing new clothes and shoes regularly.
Reading about Claire were my favourite chapters as I could relate to her, as over 32 years ago I was a single parent, and I know what’s it’s like struggling to pay heating bills, buy food and pay for new clothes for my daughters.
The story gives takes a special bond between Marcus and Claire, in an unexpected way.
I had tears streaming down my face as I read the chapters about Claire.
I 100% recommend reading Maybe It’s About Time, by author Neil Boss.
Take my advice this is a very touching story where you will need plenty of tissue ready!
( I know you will all want to know more about this novel after reading a little about Claire)
Part of a chapter about Claire.
‘Can we have Haribo, Mummy?’
‘Just wait Kyle, we’ll see.’
‘I’ll get some!’ Said the little boy and started to run.
‘Kyle wait I said!’
The woman grabbed the little boy by his hood and dragged him back to the buggy.
‘ Just do as you’re told,’ she shouted as she shock her by the arm.
The little boy’s lip quivered and he started to cry, tears mixing with the snot. He wiped his nose on his sleeve and wiped his sleeve on Spiderman. The little girl looked up and continued eating raisins. The woman put two bottles of sugar-free Ribena in her bag and moved along the isles to the sweets. They got to the Haribo display and she stopped. She felt bad for shouting at her son. ‘Okay, what do you want then?’ She said, looking down at him.
The little boy’s face lit up and he pointed to a bag of Haribo Milkshakes. She took a bag, opened it and gave him a banana milkshake. He was happy and quiet now. She approached the self -service checkout. They were all busy and she waited until one became available.
‘Please scan your first item,’ said the voice.
She scanned two packets of mince, the machine emitting it’s little boop noise.
‘Please place your items on the shelf.’
She put the packets of mince in one of her bags, and took out the two remaining packets and put them directly in her bag. She repeated this process until her shopping bag was empty.
Two for you, two for me, she thought. Every little helps. The electronic display showed the total of £42.65.
‘Please scan your Tesco Clubcard,’ said the voice. She scanned her Clubcard. Tesco knew a lot about her shopping habits, but not everything.
‘Please select payment type.’
She opened her purse, just over two pounds in loose coins. By the middle of the month, there was little left of her Universal Credit to feed her family. There was only one payment type, her credit card. She had extended her limit three times and would soon be extending it again. She entered her PIN, held her breath, said a prayer and waited.
‘Payment accepted. Would you like a receipt?’ Said the voice.
The machine regurgitated a roll of paper and she stuffed it into one of the plastic bags. Kyle was chewing on another banana milkshake, and he held her arm as they walked to the door. The security guard stood in front of her, arms folded, barring her way to the exit. ‘
‘Excused me. Would you mind if I look in your bags?’
‘Why?’ Is there something you want?’ she said, flippantly.
‘Is this your shopping?’
‘Well, whose do you think it is? Angelina Jolies?’ She could feel her heart starting to race, her breathing becoming heavier.
‘Don’t get smart. Just open your bags. Do you have your receipt?’ said the security guard.
She shrugged her shoulders, opened her arms and gestured for him to take a look.
He unfurled the crumpled receipt and poked around. ‘Mmm it seems you haven’t scanned everything in your bags, have you? In fact, you seem to have forgotten quite a lot.’
‘Have some items not gone through?’ she said. Those machines are quite unreliable, you know?’
‘Come off it. Just admit it, you were nicking. ‘I’ve had my eye on you the whole time. I’m calling the store manager. Don’t move an inch!’
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