I was really looking forward to this after reading several good reviews. I found the characters likeable and engaging and the story moved along quickly, but then... It all seemed to resolve itself rather unbelievably and quickly at the end. I was a little disappointed, to be honest. From the reviews, I had also expected more depth in terms of the correspondence between Emmy and the readers. Still a sweet read, but not a favourite, in my view.

I was expecting this to be a fairly light and easy read and was pleasantly surprised at its depth and charm. I haven't read many stories with a female protagonist as quirky as Eleanor, and I found her engaging and compelling, perhaps despite her best efforts!

I found the story really compelling, and was rooting (no pun intended) for Francie, but by the end I felt strangely disappointed. Her mother's life was wrapped up far too neatly and her own just left me feeling flat. I wanted more for that tough young sapling, but perhaps that was the author's point.

Just discovered this in our book cupboard! Had been wondering what to read next so I'll take this as a sign...

I happened upon this novel in our lovely book shop on a sad day. I was looking for a chicken soup sort of book. Remembering the warmth of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, I chose this and found it just as soothing and nurturing as I'd hoped. Not an action blockbuster. Not a laugh out loud riotous affair. But gentle and life affirming. Thank you Queenie.