The storyline of this book was everything I love in a feel good book; fun, humorous, sad and even quite relatable in some parts. I thoroughly enjoyed it and actually felt a bit of a lull when it was over! I am a busy mum of four who works full time so prioritising when I get to read can sometimes be a bit challenging so for this one, Audible became my best friend on the school runs and work commute. It is narrated by the author herself – and I absolutely adored her narration and vocal depiction of all the characters!
My Favourite Mistake, follows the story, or rather mid-life crisis, of PR Executive Anna who has lost her love for the American Dream and New York, and moves back home to Ireland. With no plans set in stone, she is hired by friends who are in the later stages of opening a high end retreat in a coastal Village of the Emerald Isle. In addition to navigating a bit of a bumpy road to the opening of the retreat, Anna is also balancing her own needs which on occasion means letting her past back in.
All of the characters are lovable, and despite some having minor roles in the story, Keyes has a really unique way of making the reader feel like they really know each character. They are all written with so much depth that I really felt a proper attachment and connection with so many of them – especially the main two or three. Although there are quite a few to characters to get your head around, each one brings a really different perspective to the story.
The storyline flits between past and present dropping little breadcrumbs that come together over the final few chapters. The first few chapters are at a slower pace and set a bit of context (although there are still some gaps that get filled in the more into the book you delve).
The story itself is no major drama but rather a real coming together of all the cups and downs so many may face in an “ordinary life”. As a mum approaching 40, the theme of friendship, especially lost friendships, really pulled at me. My own feelings were really tugged on and challenged by the the various descriptions, feelings and events that surrounded some of the main characters.
It was funny, heart warming, emotional and an all round feel good book! Would 100% recommend!!
Wee Bubble of Books 