The Happiness List

Pammy, Fran and Heather are all living in the neighborhood of Hope Street, that of the famous choir, and while ‘friendly’ in that ‘nod and perhaps chat a moment way, they aren’t visiting and sharing tea. But when a course on Happiness is offered, the three women decide (not necessarily commit) to go to the first session, led by a Danish man, Nik. Of course, the three are ‘grouped’ together at the course, an odd pairing from the outset, but one that is surprisingly the best for all. See, Pammy is in her mid-60’s, married nearly 40 years and finding that she and her husband Barry have lost that luster and camaraderie.. Fran is recently widowed unexpectedly, with her two children and her dog Alan, she’s just retreated from everyone and everything, spending hours on the sofa she hates talking with her dead husband. Heather has just moved back to Hope Street with her fiancé Luke, although he’s constantly off working, or home ignoring her because of work. She’s wanting to plan the wedding and make inroads into the life they will share, and nothing seems to be falling into place as she hoped. What emerges is a story that EVERYONE needs to read for the twists, turns and journeys that these three travel together and separately, showing how, despite being at different ages and stages in life, these three women find ways to support, uplift, advise and nudge one another forward. You wish, no matter where you are currently, that you had friends like this: those who push you when you need it, rant and rail when that is what’s required, and always allow you to be yourself, no matter what form that may take at any time. Annie Lyons is a genius at making readers care for, and empathize with, her characters. Perhaps it is because we can see ourselves in situations, with feelings, and perhaps even mistakes, in her characters, and they seem to find a way through it all, no matter how dire situations may look at first. Make the effort to pick up and read this book, a bit slow to start – soon you will be reading (and rereading) passages because you just don’t want it to end. A favorite for all of the emotions, the characters and the sheer joy of being back to visit Hope Street. I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility

I really enjoyed this book. Couldn’t put it down. Feel good story, lovely characters and some life skills I will adopt!. Can’t wait to read other books by this author.