Book Review: Some Kind of Wonderful by Giovanna Fletcher

Some Kind of Wonderful
by Giovanna Fletcher

Publication date: November 16th 2017
Publisher: Michael Joseph
Pages: 389

Summary:

Lizzy and Ian have been a couple since their first day at university. Now, after celebrating a decade together, everyone thinks they’re about to get engaged. A romantic escape to Dubai is the perfect moment, but instead of the proposal Lizzy hopes for, Ian reveals he’s not sure he even wants her anymore.

Lizzy is heartbroken. But through the tears, she realises this is her chance to seize the opportunities she missed as Ian’s other half. But what does she want? How much of her is really Lizzy, and how much was Ian’s influence? Determined to discover who she is at heart, Lizzy sets out to rediscover the girl she was before – and in the meantime, have a little fun . . .

Source: Goodreads

Thoughts:

I won this book in a competition over on Instagram (thanks very much @bookie_mama_bear!)

Giovanna Fletcher‘s “Some Kind of Wonderful” really is a wonderful book and it certainly put a smile on my face!

In the opening pages, Lizzy and her long term boyfriend Ian are on holiday in Dubai. They’re taking selfies by the pool, sailing at nearby beaches and enjoying the six themed restaurants that the hotel has to offer. The couple have been together for 10 years and Lizzy is certain that a proposal must be around the corner. But then, the disastrous happens and Ian breaks up with her mid proposal.

The couple head home awkwardly in silence and when they’re back on home soil, it’s up to Lizzy to pull herself together and rediscover who she once was and who she wants to become.

I really enjoyed this story and it was the perfect light read for me. Lizzy’s life is so very English and I loved her for this, seeing so many similarities between her life and my own. She’s a strong leading lady, supported by a comedic team of friends and family, and together these characters made the story very entertaining, especially as I read it mid-pandemic!

“People are meant to come into our lives and affect us. They’re meant to challenged us and help us to grow. From the very first time you’re cradled into your mother’s bosom you’re learning about human contact, love and devotion. Not every interaction will be quite as significant or powerful, but they’ll push and pull you through life and help you grow and learn.”

Sure, maybe some of the things that happen to Lizzy very conveniently fall into place, and they are probably a little more fantasy than real life, but I’m not sure that this matters. This is a warm, cosy read that I’d recommend for chick-lit fans, plus the cover is beautiful too!

I lost a little interest somewhere in the middle where I felt the story slowed down somewhat. I would have preferred the story to be a little shorter, but that’s my only criticism.

This is my first book by Giovanna Fletcher, but it was really well written and I imagine it won’t be my last. I look forward to exploring her other work.

Overall rating: “Some Kind of Wonderful” is a lovely, comforting read about one woman’s journey of self-discovery. I enjoyed this story and will keep an eye out for more books by this author – 4 stars!