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New Normal
After the sudden death of her husband, Emilie Russell just wants to feel normal. But being a middle-aged widow doesn't come with a how-to manual. Her well-meaning friend, Viv, believes the cure to all that ails is simple: a new man. So, she sets Emilie up with her handsome and charming new neighbor, widower Colin. There's only one problem with the plan-Colin is gay.
Emilie embarks on a rollicking journey of self-discovery with Colin as her mentor and best friend. From learning to swipe right without cringing while midlife dating in constricting shapeware to cougar moments in Key West, Emilie reenters the dating pool with both humorous and soul-crushing results.
With the encouragement of her friends, including a new furry one, plus a little therapy, Emilie begins forging a new life, one where she exchanges tears for laughter, and one that maybe-just maybe-includes the courage to find love again.
Emilie embarks on a rollicking journey of self-discovery with Colin as her mentor and best friend. From learning to swipe right without cringing while midlife dating in constricting shapeware to cougar moments in Key West, Emilie reenters the dating pool with both humorous and soul-crushing results.
With the encouragement of her friends, including a new furry one, plus a little therapy, Emilie begins forging a new life, one where she exchanges tears for laughter, and one that maybe-just maybe-includes the courage to find love again.
294 pages, Paperback
Published May 2, 2023
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2557 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 30, 2023
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
First, I want to point out that if you haven’t lost your spouse or someone extremely close to you, you can’t understand the pain your heart and soul endure. I haven’t had a major death happen to me, but having received news the day is near, I feel myself starting the grieving process and this book has and will be something I can look back on to help me move forward.
New Normal is a story of a young widow learning how to find herself again. Along the way, she learns how to let the past go, lean on the ones she’s closest to, and find happiness. Paris tells this story so well; you may believe it’s her real experience. Michelle Paris had the thought since there isn’t a manual for young widowers, she will write one herself, hoping to help the next person who must face life without their loved one. She proves strength comes from all kinds of places in someone’s life and it's okay to be sad and grieve but don’t let it keep you from living life.
Emilie found herself stuck in life. She didn’t know how to move forward or what to do. Her friends help her get out of her rut by helping her see that it was only chapter one that ended, and she still has so much more to live for. As she starts to let go of her late husband, she wants to feel something other than loneliness and tries dating again. With the help of her gay best friend, longtime college friends, and a new addition to her family, Emilie finds that there was something out there for her and sometimes the only way to see the rainbow at the end is to survive the storm.
To be honest, it took a few pages to get into this. Once I did, it was hard to put down. I felt like I could be a third friend to Emilie and Colin, laughing at his antics while holding her hand for strength. I do believe that if her friend didn’t force her to meet Colin, her life wouldn’t have changed. Colin turned out to be her guiding light. But if it wasn’t for Pudding, she wouldn’t have had the chance to start her chapter two.
I enjoyed this book. It was fantastically written with an immersive story. And knowing this is based on her personal experiences makes the feeling so much stronger. When I picked it up, I had a hard time putting it down. I found myself taking it wherever I could. It made me cry and smile. Even if you haven’t become a widow or lost someone significant in your life, this book is still one of those treasures you should still read. You never know what a person is going through, and learning how to use compassion toward others is never outdated. Reading this helps you understand that it's ok to feel what you feel, but it should stop you from living your life and moving on. So, yes, I think you should read this. And if Paris writes anything else, you can bet I’ll be one of the first ones reading her work.
First, I want to point out that if you haven’t lost your spouse or someone extremely close to you, you can’t understand the pain your heart and soul endure. I haven’t had a major death happen to me, but having received news the day is near, I feel myself starting the grieving process and this book has and will be something I can look back on to help me move forward.
New Normal is a story of a young widow learning how to find herself again. Along the way, she learns how to let the past go, lean on the ones she’s closest to, and find happiness. Paris tells this story so well; you may believe it’s her real experience. Michelle Paris had the thought since there isn’t a manual for young widowers, she will write one herself, hoping to help the next person who must face life without their loved one. She proves strength comes from all kinds of places in someone’s life and it's okay to be sad and grieve but don’t let it keep you from living life.
Emilie found herself stuck in life. She didn’t know how to move forward or what to do. Her friends help her get out of her rut by helping her see that it was only chapter one that ended, and she still has so much more to live for. As she starts to let go of her late husband, she wants to feel something other than loneliness and tries dating again. With the help of her gay best friend, longtime college friends, and a new addition to her family, Emilie finds that there was something out there for her and sometimes the only way to see the rainbow at the end is to survive the storm.
To be honest, it took a few pages to get into this. Once I did, it was hard to put down. I felt like I could be a third friend to Emilie and Colin, laughing at his antics while holding her hand for strength. I do believe that if her friend didn’t force her to meet Colin, her life wouldn’t have changed. Colin turned out to be her guiding light. But if it wasn’t for Pudding, she wouldn’t have had the chance to start her chapter two.
I enjoyed this book. It was fantastically written with an immersive story. And knowing this is based on her personal experiences makes the feeling so much stronger. When I picked it up, I had a hard time putting it down. I found myself taking it wherever I could. It made me cry and smile. Even if you haven’t become a widow or lost someone significant in your life, this book is still one of those treasures you should still read. You never know what a person is going through, and learning how to use compassion toward others is never outdated. Reading this helps you understand that it's ok to feel what you feel, but it should stop you from living your life and moving on. So, yes, I think you should read this. And if Paris writes anything else, you can bet I’ll be one of the first ones reading her work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2024
Possible spoilers below - this one is a bit tough to review without giving some detail.
Emilie is a pretty average female, there's no boasting about being perfect with a job that provides an endless bank account. This is an everyday story that could be someone's day-to-day life. There is no heavy-hitting drama or suspense, or over-the-edge antics.
Emilie is trying to get over the loss of her husband. We follow her and her ins and outs with friends, family, work, and returning to dating - for about 18 months after his death.
I loved that things were normal. There are so many over-the-edge books that go for some type of shock value. This was "normal" - normal characters, normal jobs, normal problems.
I loved that she found a gay bestie - she needed someone who had been through what she had been through. Though not in a ton of detail, I did enjoy the bits and pieces of their friendship progressing.
The only reason I rated this book a 4 is because I felt a little disappointed with the ending. I wanted to see her complete happy ending, not just her besties.
That said, still a good read when you want to relate to real life and everyday stories...it's like sitting and chatting with your two besties while having a cup of tea. (I do also wish there was more of the dog)
Emilie is a pretty average female, there's no boasting about being perfect with a job that provides an endless bank account. This is an everyday story that could be someone's day-to-day life. There is no heavy-hitting drama or suspense, or over-the-edge antics.
Emilie is trying to get over the loss of her husband. We follow her and her ins and outs with friends, family, work, and returning to dating - for about 18 months after his death.
I loved that things were normal. There are so many over-the-edge books that go for some type of shock value. This was "normal" - normal characters, normal jobs, normal problems.
I loved that she found a gay bestie - she needed someone who had been through what she had been through. Though not in a ton of detail, I did enjoy the bits and pieces of their friendship progressing.
The only reason I rated this book a 4 is because I felt a little disappointed with the ending. I wanted to see her complete happy ending, not just her besties.
That said, still a good read when you want to relate to real life and everyday stories...it's like sitting and chatting with your two besties while having a cup of tea. (I do also wish there was more of the dog)
April 19, 2023
3.75 stars
Appealing story of a young widow whose husband's sudden heart attack death leaves her reeling. We follow her honest account of working her way back and processing her grief, anger and loneliness. We admire Emilie for her honesty and her determination to heal herself.
She is helped by her best friends: Colin, a failed set up (because he is gay) by a well-intentioned pal, and Viv, a friend since college who keeps trying to set Emilie up. Although the story is on one level about grieving and sadness, there is a lot of humor and a lot of positive energy and it is not a grim or depressing tale.
We also follow Emilie through therapy and are impressed by her self-awareness and candid revelations. The author based this story on her own experience and it is touching and realistic. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Appealing story of a young widow whose husband's sudden heart attack death leaves her reeling. We follow her honest account of working her way back and processing her grief, anger and loneliness. We admire Emilie for her honesty and her determination to heal herself.
She is helped by her best friends: Colin, a failed set up (because he is gay) by a well-intentioned pal, and Viv, a friend since college who keeps trying to set Emilie up. Although the story is on one level about grieving and sadness, there is a lot of humor and a lot of positive energy and it is not a grim or depressing tale.
We also follow Emilie through therapy and are impressed by her self-awareness and candid revelations. The author based this story on her own experience and it is touching and realistic. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 9, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
From the cover design and description, I thought this looked and sounded like a cute book.
I thought it was charming. Sort of heart-breaking but heart-warming at the same time. I very much warmed to the characters and liked the connection between them.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for a free copy to review.
From the cover design and description, I thought this looked and sounded like a cute book.
I thought it was charming. Sort of heart-breaking but heart-warming at the same time. I very much warmed to the characters and liked the connection between them.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for a free copy to review.
January 16, 2023
New Normal by Michelle Paris is a touching story about loss, healing and moving forward towards a "New Normal".
I want to start by saying I am not a widow, so I don't know how someone who lost a spouse would feel, but I feel like this book did a great job of portraying the real parts of grief. How it can feel like it is swallowing you whole while the rest of the world keeps on moving. How it has such a strong hold on you that you feel you may never be able to live again. Or how it can leave you with new feelings of fear, abandonment and so much more.
Even though the subject of this book was heavy, Paris keeps you from spiraling into the darkness by adding in moments of light and laughter. I also enjoyed the emphasis of friendship and learning to lean on "your people". May we all have a Colin in our life!
Grief has no timeline and this story shows just that. It will have you feeling like your heart is in a vice one minute and laughing the next in this heartwarming tale of next chapters.
I received a free advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I want to start by saying I am not a widow, so I don't know how someone who lost a spouse would feel, but I feel like this book did a great job of portraying the real parts of grief. How it can feel like it is swallowing you whole while the rest of the world keeps on moving. How it has such a strong hold on you that you feel you may never be able to live again. Or how it can leave you with new feelings of fear, abandonment and so much more.
Even though the subject of this book was heavy, Paris keeps you from spiraling into the darkness by adding in moments of light and laughter. I also enjoyed the emphasis of friendship and learning to lean on "your people". May we all have a Colin in our life!
Grief has no timeline and this story shows just that. It will have you feeling like your heart is in a vice one minute and laughing the next in this heartwarming tale of next chapters.
I received a free advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 18, 2023
I was given this book to read and review! I found this book to be a little entertaining and an easy to follow story. The author presented many emotions; I just could not get emotionally attached to any of the characters. I found this story to be average with a little entertainment value. I am glad that I gave this author a try and I am sure there are people who will really love this story; I just won't be falling into this category. If you want a glimpse into spousal grief but with a positive spin, then this book should fill that category.
May 3, 2023
New Normal centers on grieving Emilie who is suddenly widowed. It’s easy to connect with her and sympathize with her loss, grief, and journey to healing. I especially liked the witty moments, the warm friendships, and Emilie’s inner strength. Even though Emilie’s loss is heartbreaking, the author does a wonderful job of keeping the story from being heavy and dark.
Even though I haven’t lost a spouse, I have lost many important people in my life, so it took very little effort to place myself in Emilie’s shoes. Well-meaning friends oftentimes try to help, but don’t know how. I kept telling her (in my thoughts) “You do you.” We all have our own way, in our own time, to heal our hearts.
A heartbreaking and heartwarming read. It’s paced nicely and can be read in one setting.
First Line: Emilie tilted the rearview mirror to assess the damage.
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Author: Michelle Paris
Page Count: 294
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Even though I haven’t lost a spouse, I have lost many important people in my life, so it took very little effort to place myself in Emilie’s shoes. Well-meaning friends oftentimes try to help, but don’t know how. I kept telling her (in my thoughts) “You do you.” We all have our own way, in our own time, to heal our hearts.
A heartbreaking and heartwarming read. It’s paced nicely and can be read in one setting.
First Line: Emilie tilted the rearview mirror to assess the damage.
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Author: Michelle Paris
Page Count: 294
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
June 6, 2023
By the looks of it, the book may seem like a cute rom-com or a fun beach read. But it is not. It is an intense women's fiction which is emotional, compulsive and insightful.
Emilie Russel is a middle-aged widow who is trying to cope with the sudden tragic loss of her husband. Her best friend, Viv, suggests that she start seeing other men to feel normal again in life and tries her luck in setting up Emilie with her neighbour. But only that, her neighbour Colin is gay and has also been through the loss of his partner.
After much contemplation, Emilie tries therapy with Dr. Jeffries and finds minimal success in it, while most of her comfort comes from being around Colin and their accidental friendship. Emilie tries dating a few other men until she finds the one, and in the process, she grows, heals and discovers herself a lot.
This book felt like a breath of fresh air with the likes of Emilie, Ida, Pudding and Colin. Colin and Emilie's friendship was my favourite part of the book, and also take note that if you are planning to read books for the pride month, please include this in your list. I haven't read a book so far that represents non-binary people without any stereotypes as this book. The emotional wreckage this book caused me is so real that I sometimes had to stop reading and get back to it later. But the tears were so worth it.
I loved, loved, loved how Emilie and her friends honoured her late husband by carrying his ashes to the places that he wanted to visit, and it was so heartwarming. Except for the slight repetition in the narrative sometimes, this book is an amazing read.
If you loved P.S. I love you and the likes of it; then you will surely love this one as well. It also happens to be a semi-biographical account of the author's life, and it's super commendable how she has dealt with it with so much courage and power.
MY REVIEW: 4.5/5
Emilie Russel is a middle-aged widow who is trying to cope with the sudden tragic loss of her husband. Her best friend, Viv, suggests that she start seeing other men to feel normal again in life and tries her luck in setting up Emilie with her neighbour. But only that, her neighbour Colin is gay and has also been through the loss of his partner.
After much contemplation, Emilie tries therapy with Dr. Jeffries and finds minimal success in it, while most of her comfort comes from being around Colin and their accidental friendship. Emilie tries dating a few other men until she finds the one, and in the process, she grows, heals and discovers herself a lot.
This book felt like a breath of fresh air with the likes of Emilie, Ida, Pudding and Colin. Colin and Emilie's friendship was my favourite part of the book, and also take note that if you are planning to read books for the pride month, please include this in your list. I haven't read a book so far that represents non-binary people without any stereotypes as this book. The emotional wreckage this book caused me is so real that I sometimes had to stop reading and get back to it later. But the tears were so worth it.
I loved, loved, loved how Emilie and her friends honoured her late husband by carrying his ashes to the places that he wanted to visit, and it was so heartwarming. Except for the slight repetition in the narrative sometimes, this book is an amazing read.
If you loved P.S. I love you and the likes of it; then you will surely love this one as well. It also happens to be a semi-biographical account of the author's life, and it's super commendable how she has dealt with it with so much courage and power.
MY REVIEW: 4.5/5
March 22, 2023
New Normal introduces us to Emilie, a young widow, grieving after her husband passes away suddenly. We follow her journey as she tries to work out what her future will look without him.
When a well-meaning friend tries to match make her with the gorgeous (but very gay!) Colin, she discovers that he is also struggling with the death of a loved one and a close friendship is formed. Colin and Emilie support each other and start to look at moving on with their lives. She also finds comfort in a little stray Yorkshire terrier she finds in her garage.
This is the author's debut novel and from the information at the back of the book we learn that she has also suffered a bereavement of a spouse. This is reflected in the sensitive but humorous way that Emilie's experienves are portrayed. A lovely story about grief, friendship and staying strong.
When a well-meaning friend tries to match make her with the gorgeous (but very gay!) Colin, she discovers that he is also struggling with the death of a loved one and a close friendship is formed. Colin and Emilie support each other and start to look at moving on with their lives. She also finds comfort in a little stray Yorkshire terrier she finds in her garage.
This is the author's debut novel and from the information at the back of the book we learn that she has also suffered a bereavement of a spouse. This is reflected in the sensitive but humorous way that Emilie's experienves are portrayed. A lovely story about grief, friendship and staying strong.
May 2, 2023
Emilie's husband died suddenly from a heart attack and leaves Emilie not sure what to do. Emilie's best friend think's she should try dating and sets her up a date with a widower call Colin, only one problem with that, Colin is gay. She might not got a boyfriend but she does get a friend that's willing to help her. We have every emotion going on in this story, grieving, positive, humour, sadness.
I have to say, I could relate to this story and what the author herself went through, as I lost my husband suddenly at 45-year-old. Michelle has shown how realistic it is when this happens
I have to say, I could relate to this story and what the author herself went through, as I lost my husband suddenly at 45-year-old. Michelle has shown how realistic it is when this happens
January 10, 2024
It’s difficult to imagine what it would be like to be a young widow, but Emilie takes us along for the ride while she tries to put her life back together after the sudden death of her husband. She’s refreshingly honest about the ups and downs of grief, new friendships, dating, and learning to be happy again. I just couldn’t help liking Emilie and found myself rooting for her and wanting very much to see her find the peace and happiness she deserves.
April 23, 2023
Practically perfect starring super-hero full of self-awareness, discernment, forgiveness and fresh humor.
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own?” (Matthew 7:3)
Despite her friends’ desires to ‘fix her’, heroine Emilie makes her own way in her own time while living each moment in great clarity.
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own?” (Matthew 7:3)
Despite her friends’ desires to ‘fix her’, heroine Emilie makes her own way in her own time while living each moment in great clarity.
May 6, 2023
This book hits right in the feelings and you go on this emotional journey with the main character Emilie. It is a dark subject, but the author did a great job and keeping it in the grey zone with some very heartfelt moments ( the Swans 😭). Being widowed so young, constantly having friends and loved ones trying to set you up, and just trying to find your “ new normal “ is exhausted. Grief is such a tricky thing and how everyone deals with it can be different.
May 9, 2023
This book had me feeling all the emotions ❤️ following the MFC through her grief journey from the loss of her husband to navigating life after had me laughing and shedding tears along side her. The author has done an amazing job of portraying something that is an inevitable part of life, and showing that it’s unique journey for each person.
April 7, 2023
Having being widowed young myself I could so identify with Emilie and her New Normal after Rob dies.
I really enjoyed this book and following Emilie as she navigates through life on her own.
Beautifully written by Michelle Paris.
I really enjoyed this book and following Emilie as she navigates through life on her own.
Beautifully written by Michelle Paris.
February 20, 2023
I received a ARC free from Book Sirens and this is my voluntary honest review.
Oh, wow! Such a heavy heart, heart breaking emotional read!
A journey of growth through death, sadness, and a rebuilding of ones life! From darkness to light!
It contained a few unnecessary cuss words, but they did not subtract from the message of the story of a sad, strong character. Well done!
Don't miss.
Oh, wow! Such a heavy heart, heart breaking emotional read!
A journey of growth through death, sadness, and a rebuilding of ones life! From darkness to light!
It contained a few unnecessary cuss words, but they did not subtract from the message of the story of a sad, strong character. Well done!
Don't miss.
July 12, 2023
Emilie suddenly loses her husband and finds herself a young widow. As she navigates this unexpected and profound loss, she works to find a new way to live after loss. With the help of friends, a furry friend, and a therapist she puts in the work to find a new normal life.
New Normal is a heartfelt novel about working through grief and what comes after loss. Emilie and Colin were such easy characters to love and to root for. I really enjoyed their friendship and how helpful it was to help Emilie work through her grief. I also loved that Emilie found a furry friend to support her, animals are truly amazing and can change our lives and mindsets in so many ways.
There are a lot of important lessons and messages for those dealing with their own grief, but none of it comes across as too much or makes the tone of the book to heavy. The story is well paced and following along with Emilie was really fun to read. Even if you haven’t dealt with loss of a partner, this is a great and meaningful but still light read. I will definitely be interested in checking out Paris’ next book.
I received a complementary copy of this book, and this review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
New Normal is a heartfelt novel about working through grief and what comes after loss. Emilie and Colin were such easy characters to love and to root for. I really enjoyed their friendship and how helpful it was to help Emilie work through her grief. I also loved that Emilie found a furry friend to support her, animals are truly amazing and can change our lives and mindsets in so many ways.
There are a lot of important lessons and messages for those dealing with their own grief, but none of it comes across as too much or makes the tone of the book to heavy. The story is well paced and following along with Emilie was really fun to read. Even if you haven’t dealt with loss of a partner, this is a great and meaningful but still light read. I will definitely be interested in checking out Paris’ next book.
I received a complementary copy of this book, and this review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
February 22, 2023
Overall I liked this book! It’s refreshing to read something different such as this one that involves a young widow. However, this story seemed to be trying to do too much. Lots of random storylines that didn’t all seem necessary. But, I did enjoy reading the ups and downs of her friendships and relationships. I didn’t find the parts about her job added to the story. And, was disappointed her dog wasn’t more of a focus considering there is a dog on the cover of the book. Thanks to BookSirens and the author for the advanced copy of this book.
July 14, 2019
At the age of 40, Emilie finds herself a widow and trying to navigate what life looks like after losing her husband Rob to a sudden heart attack. Loosely based on the author's own experience after losing her own husband, the book follows Emilie as she wades through the ups and downs of her new life. While the premise of this book could be seen as a bit heavy, the light tone of the book kept it from ever feeling overwhelming. I found myself both tearing up and laughing out loud during parts of the book.
May 19, 2023
Hard to Say, But…
This story is inspired by the author's own experience as a young widow. As such, I feel hesitant to point out its flaws out of respect for her experience and pain. However, as a literary work, it did have some issues. I didn't think it had enough of a sense of rising action, climax, and denouement that a good story should have. Every conversation, whether with friends, potential male interests, or professionals, had a complexity and poignancy that real conversations don't really have. Perhaps these could have been made less dense, or their concepts spread out through the book, or less weighty regular conversations we have with people every day could have been interspersed more often. This book felt like more of a memoir than a proper story. I don't know how much has been fictionalized, but to make it a more gripping read, the author perhaps could have tried to map it to a more traditional story structure and provided more compelling conflicts. I did like this book's secondary characters, from her good buddy Colin to an older woman who becomes much more than a friend by the end of the book. As someone who is going through grief right now, though not of a partner, I question if the way her best friend handled the heroine’s grief at the start of the book is an accurate reflection of what people do. Do people's friends really expect someone to jump back into the dating scene 5 months after losing a long-term, much-beloved partner? Five months is not long at all. If this book interests you, be prepared for a bit of a slow read with a plot that feels like it oscillates in a very narrow band instead of having rising action and for deep conversations that are like few you have in real life.
2.5 stars rounded up to 3
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
This story is inspired by the author's own experience as a young widow. As such, I feel hesitant to point out its flaws out of respect for her experience and pain. However, as a literary work, it did have some issues. I didn't think it had enough of a sense of rising action, climax, and denouement that a good story should have. Every conversation, whether with friends, potential male interests, or professionals, had a complexity and poignancy that real conversations don't really have. Perhaps these could have been made less dense, or their concepts spread out through the book, or less weighty regular conversations we have with people every day could have been interspersed more often. This book felt like more of a memoir than a proper story. I don't know how much has been fictionalized, but to make it a more gripping read, the author perhaps could have tried to map it to a more traditional story structure and provided more compelling conflicts. I did like this book's secondary characters, from her good buddy Colin to an older woman who becomes much more than a friend by the end of the book. As someone who is going through grief right now, though not of a partner, I question if the way her best friend handled the heroine’s grief at the start of the book is an accurate reflection of what people do. Do people's friends really expect someone to jump back into the dating scene 5 months after losing a long-term, much-beloved partner? Five months is not long at all. If this book interests you, be prepared for a bit of a slow read with a plot that feels like it oscillates in a very narrow band instead of having rising action and for deep conversations that are like few you have in real life.
2.5 stars rounded up to 3
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
April 10, 2024
Signed novel received courtesy of Goodreads First Reads Giveaway
I adored this novel. This is Michelle Paris's first novel, and she did a fantastic job! For the past several years, we have all had to come to terms with the idea of "a new normal". Since the book is loosely based on the author's life, the writing comes across as heart-felt and truthful.
Emilie is a 40-year-old widow who is stuck in the muck of her grief. She is having a hard time moving forward after the sudden death of her beloved husband. In an attempt to get Emilie to date again, her friend Viv invites single guy Colin to a cookout and introduces them hoping for a connection between them. In the first couple of minutes after meeting, Colin tells Emilie that he's gay. He's been single since losing his partner to cancer. They become the best of friends and encourage one another in their "new normals". Since Colin has been single longer, he's able to help Emilie take steps, like therapy, to walk through her grief and come out on the other side.
This novel is such a wonderful read. So many people are stuck in their grief and can't move ahead. This novel shows that, although we maneuver through grief in different ways, we can begin to live different lives without disrespecting those we've lost. Highly recommended!
I adored this novel. This is Michelle Paris's first novel, and she did a fantastic job! For the past several years, we have all had to come to terms with the idea of "a new normal". Since the book is loosely based on the author's life, the writing comes across as heart-felt and truthful.
Emilie is a 40-year-old widow who is stuck in the muck of her grief. She is having a hard time moving forward after the sudden death of her beloved husband. In an attempt to get Emilie to date again, her friend Viv invites single guy Colin to a cookout and introduces them hoping for a connection between them. In the first couple of minutes after meeting, Colin tells Emilie that he's gay. He's been single since losing his partner to cancer. They become the best of friends and encourage one another in their "new normals". Since Colin has been single longer, he's able to help Emilie take steps, like therapy, to walk through her grief and come out on the other side.
This novel is such a wonderful read. So many people are stuck in their grief and can't move ahead. This novel shows that, although we maneuver through grief in different ways, we can begin to live different lives without disrespecting those we've lost. Highly recommended!
May 16, 2023
This short novel by first time author Michelle Paris is at times sad but mostly is an unexpectedly entertaining and often humorous, thinly veiled, fictionalized memoir of herself as a suddenly young widow in her early forties after 8 years of marriage. I found the book a bit slow going in the beginning (and never felt comfortable with her relationship with her grief therapist though he appears to have helped her significantly, particularly by encouraging her to write her feelings down in a journal) but as the story progressed and particularly after she meets her best friend, Colin, and later Ida, I adored the rest of the book and didn’t want it to end. I would like to thank Ms. Paris, Apprentice House Press, and BookSirens for providing me with a digital advanced reader’s copy of the book to review prior to its publication and apologize for being slightly late in providing my unbiased, voluntary review.
I think this book is relatable to any person that’s ever gone through any sort of relationship loss in their life, whether it be from death or divorce or any other type of breakup. A loss is a loss, and sometimes it’s difficult to get back on the horse once you’ve been thrown off, particularly after one’s riding skills have become a bit rusty.
I think this book is relatable to any person that’s ever gone through any sort of relationship loss in their life, whether it be from death or divorce or any other type of breakup. A loss is a loss, and sometimes it’s difficult to get back on the horse once you’ve been thrown off, particularly after one’s riding skills have become a bit rusty.
March 23, 2023
“After the sudden death of her husband, Emilie Russell just wants to feel normal.”
What a powerful story of loss, grief, healing, and growth. I felt so many emotions while reading this book. I really liked how there were light hearted moments throughout to balance the moments of sadness. It was very empowering and inspiring to see how Emile navigated through her grief. I really admired her strength and courage as she works through the healing process and even begins dating again. It was fun and entertaining to follow along with her as she re-enters the dating scene. Be prepared for some cringey moments as well that added some humor and relatability. I loved the friendships she had with her girlfriends and Colin. Everyone needs a friend as amazing as Colin! I really enjoyed this book and I think every reader will find it relatable to some degree.
Thank you so much Michelle for the gifted copy!
What a powerful story of loss, grief, healing, and growth. I felt so many emotions while reading this book. I really liked how there were light hearted moments throughout to balance the moments of sadness. It was very empowering and inspiring to see how Emile navigated through her grief. I really admired her strength and courage as she works through the healing process and even begins dating again. It was fun and entertaining to follow along with her as she re-enters the dating scene. Be prepared for some cringey moments as well that added some humor and relatability. I loved the friendships she had with her girlfriends and Colin. Everyone needs a friend as amazing as Colin! I really enjoyed this book and I think every reader will find it relatable to some degree.
Thank you so much Michelle for the gifted copy!
May 3, 2023
This is the book you will insist all your friends read this summer. The cover of the book pulled me in, and fits with the book perfectly! Though you are going into a book knowing it's about a woman who is grieving the sudden loss of her husband, the cover let's you know it will not be doom and gloom. You will laugh, cry and feel all kinds of feelings with this perfect debut novel from Michelle Paris. I truly enjoyed reading this story.
Emilie's sorrow seems unbearable, and she is feeling lost and alone. Her friend, Viv believes a romantic relationship with her new neighbor, Colin will be just what she needs. The only problem with the plan is that Colin is gay, but he is indeed what Emilie needs. Colin's friendship brings her someone to laugh with and navigate her new life. It's about meeting your friends where they are and giving them what they need in that moment.
Thank you to Michelle Paris for sending me this book for the possibility of a review.
Emilie's sorrow seems unbearable, and she is feeling lost and alone. Her friend, Viv believes a romantic relationship with her new neighbor, Colin will be just what she needs. The only problem with the plan is that Colin is gay, but he is indeed what Emilie needs. Colin's friendship brings her someone to laugh with and navigate her new life. It's about meeting your friends where they are and giving them what they need in that moment.
Thank you to Michelle Paris for sending me this book for the possibility of a review.
June 9, 2023
My initial attraction to this book was the main character, Emilie. She’s middle aged, as am I, and it helped me relate to her. The sudden death of her husband leaves her dealing with a devastating loss. How will she adjust to being a widow? Will she ever feel happiness again? Will she ever find love again?
Time passes and the pain lessens somewhat and she finds herself ready to get back out there and date. Colin, the first man she’s fixed up with, is perfect, except for one tiny hiccup. He’s gay. His loss of a loved one enables him to guide Emilie and be there when she needs a shoulder to cry on. I loved their friendship.
I felt all the ‘feels’ in New Normal. Grief, fear, courage and happiness. Emilie was a strong character and I was pulling for her all the way. The author was able to touch on a delicate subject and leave me smiling at the ending.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
Time passes and the pain lessens somewhat and she finds herself ready to get back out there and date. Colin, the first man she’s fixed up with, is perfect, except for one tiny hiccup. He’s gay. His loss of a loved one enables him to guide Emilie and be there when she needs a shoulder to cry on. I loved their friendship.
I felt all the ‘feels’ in New Normal. Grief, fear, courage and happiness. Emilie was a strong character and I was pulling for her all the way. The author was able to touch on a delicate subject and leave me smiling at the ending.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
November 19, 2023
Sometimes, life is not a holiday romcom where you get with the guy in the first go. Sometimes, the guy d!es and you have to re-think your entire life.
New Normal by Michelle Paris, is a book I kept off reading for a year. It's not because I wasn't sure I'd like it (spoiler alert. I LOVE IT) but because like most good things in life there's a certain time when you feel it's 'just right'.
Emilia is a widow. Her life was all going nice when her husband d!es. You'd think her life stops there, young, childless widow, good lord. she thought it too, for a long time until her bestie hooked her up with her new widower neighbour. It would've been fun and typically romcom if it weren't for the fact that Colin is Gay 💅🏻. Michelle was really giving us a front row seat to the Universal Solidarity between a gay guy and his female best friend.
Now Emilia and Colin, trauma-bond, and are besties now. Their friendship is CRAZY and there's magic there. Colin the love guru sets Em up to many dates, some of which are epic fails and some are cool, the point being Emilia takes a second chance. I don't know if you've heard it but some holiday romance had this tagline 'love is just around the corner' and that's Emilia's life. Colin is just WONDERFUL. He's witty, sensational queen with just enough craving for drama. and he wants the best for Emilia (seriously, what a gem)
So this book is basically a bubbling pool of life after death of a loved one, grief, midlife crises, midlife dating, friendships and situationships and everything in between.
Michelle's writing is witty, funny, full of life and humor, truth and my favourite fact is that she doesn't romanticize everything that comes her way. Also, I hope Erik walks into a pole 💖
5 ⭐ because this book kept mama up all night (I was weeping by the end, both with happiness and a bit of grief but yeah that sums about it)
New Normal by Michelle Paris, is a book I kept off reading for a year. It's not because I wasn't sure I'd like it (spoiler alert. I LOVE IT) but because like most good things in life there's a certain time when you feel it's 'just right'.
Emilia is a widow. Her life was all going nice when her husband d!es. You'd think her life stops there, young, childless widow, good lord. she thought it too, for a long time until her bestie hooked her up with her new widower neighbour. It would've been fun and typically romcom if it weren't for the fact that Colin is Gay 💅🏻. Michelle was really giving us a front row seat to the Universal Solidarity between a gay guy and his female best friend.
Now Emilia and Colin, trauma-bond, and are besties now. Their friendship is CRAZY and there's magic there. Colin the love guru sets Em up to many dates, some of which are epic fails and some are cool, the point being Emilia takes a second chance. I don't know if you've heard it but some holiday romance had this tagline 'love is just around the corner' and that's Emilia's life. Colin is just WONDERFUL. He's witty, sensational queen with just enough craving for drama. and he wants the best for Emilia (seriously, what a gem)
So this book is basically a bubbling pool of life after death of a loved one, grief, midlife crises, midlife dating, friendships and situationships and everything in between.
Michelle's writing is witty, funny, full of life and humor, truth and my favourite fact is that she doesn't romanticize everything that comes her way. Also, I hope Erik walks into a pole 💖
5 ⭐ because this book kept mama up all night (I was weeping by the end, both with happiness and a bit of grief but yeah that sums about it)
June 4, 2023
I received a copy of this book from voracious readers only in exchange for an honest review. A compelling story with lots of heartwarming moments as the protagonist (based on the author's lived experience) navigates her way through life after the sudden death of her spouse. Although I enjoyed the read I didn't get immersed in the story, felt like I was watching it unfold rather than being involved in her experiences. At times the prose was lengthy (ie; she received roses -the paper they were wrapped in, the cutting of the flower food packet all described in detail). These descriptors of small events took up more words than necessary. I also found it tiresome the number of times people were described by their good looks and the women by their physical attributes with a focus on breasts.
Overall, wonderful to see Emilie grow and change and chase her dreams.
Overall, wonderful to see Emilie grow and change and chase her dreams.
May 3, 2023
Thank you @rrbooktours and @michelle.paris.7399 for sending me a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I can never fully imagine how horrible it must be to become a widow at any age. Especially when it comes so unexpectedly. The journey to work through this grief was very heartwarming and I love the positive light that therapy was given. Therapy does not work for everyone but for a lot of people it can be very helpful. I will always be an advocate for trying out therapy. However the fact that everyone pushed her to move on and sleep with other people. Not a fan. Also there seems to be a lot of extra scenarios that were just very unnecessary. Overall I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a lighthearted journey coping with the loss of a loved one.
I can never fully imagine how horrible it must be to become a widow at any age. Especially when it comes so unexpectedly. The journey to work through this grief was very heartwarming and I love the positive light that therapy was given. Therapy does not work for everyone but for a lot of people it can be very helpful. I will always be an advocate for trying out therapy. However the fact that everyone pushed her to move on and sleep with other people. Not a fan. Also there seems to be a lot of extra scenarios that were just very unnecessary. Overall I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a lighthearted journey coping with the loss of a loved one.
January 31, 2024
An inspiring and motivating read!!
I adored this book! The blurb is what originally intrigued me, and the author more than delivered. Emilie is such a fun and relatable character. After the death of her husband she’s trying to find a new normal, only this new normal isn’t what she imagined.
This is a novel that helps us realise that life doesn’t need to be perfect and it’s all about the fun of the journey and the people we meet along the way. I loved the fmc and being able to go along with her journey. Michelle really injected this read with humour and characters you can’t help but love like Colin, I simply loved him! A unique and intriguing book that is such a low angst easy read that is sure to cheer you up!
I adored this book! The blurb is what originally intrigued me, and the author more than delivered. Emilie is such a fun and relatable character. After the death of her husband she’s trying to find a new normal, only this new normal isn’t what she imagined.
This is a novel that helps us realise that life doesn’t need to be perfect and it’s all about the fun of the journey and the people we meet along the way. I loved the fmc and being able to go along with her journey. Michelle really injected this read with humour and characters you can’t help but love like Colin, I simply loved him! A unique and intriguing book that is such a low angst easy read that is sure to cheer you up!
April 16, 2024
Emilie is newly widowed and just wants to feel normal, her friend Viv sets her up with Colin. There is just one problem Colin is gay. Kick back and come join Emilie on a heartfelt journey of love and finding yourself through grief and have a blast along the way. This book touched me deep inside while there are a few moments that had a lump in my throat it is written in a way that makes you feel hope and joy. I smiled through my tears. It teaches you that there is no time limit on grief and no right or wrong way to grieve. I enjoyed that Emilie gets a gorgeous little dog who I think helps her heal immensely and his name had me giggling. The friendship and dating mishaps are a part of the wonderful journey of life. I believe we all need a Colin to brighten up our life! A fun read!
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