What happen if everything went wrong in your life?

Single mother ✅
mother-son relationship ✅
road trip ✅
Healing ✅

Jenny James is Not a Disaster is surprisingly enjoyable read for me. I did not have a high expectation, but I really love the premise. There are certain part that are quite heavy but overall such a delightful read.

Single mother Jenny’s trying to make it day to day, supporting herself and her teenage son Charlie, working a job to make ends meet. She and Charlie come home one evening to discover there is no home. It’s pretty much fallen off the cliff’s edge thanks to the erosion caused by the daylong rainstorm. In the aftermath of this disaster, Jenny and Charlie, now homeless, befriend their neighbor Luke and his dog Betty. Luke lives in his caravan and never stays in one place for long. He invites them to join him on his cross country adventures.

What follows is a pleasantly introspective look at what happens when life gives you all the lemons in one torrential downpour. Jenny’s rolled with the punches and survived all these years so this latest event is her doing so yet again. She’s so inspiring! I love the camaraderie that forms between the three, and how their friendship is healing for all of them. There’s fun banter and dry humor that’s catnip for me. The most poignant part is her reconciliation with her parents. Being a parent now, older and wiser offers her a different perspective she hadn’t had before. It’s so touching. There’s a hint of a potential romance, but really the focus is squarely on Jenny’s growth and her aspirations.

Read this for:
* Humor/sarcasm/witty dialogue
* Mother/son bond
* Platonic friendship
* Roadtrip/adventure
* Complicated families
* Healing/reconciliation
* Inspiration

Be aware of: mention of death of a child, divorce

I related to Jenny in so many ways, and her dynamic with her son reminded me of mine with my son. Too bad she’s not real otherwise we’d be besties. This was a fulfilling read for me and I definitely recommend it!

Thank you @harpermusebooks & @netgalley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review. 𝗝𝗲𝗻𝗻𝘆 𝗝𝗮𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗜𝘀 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗔 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 is out July 8th, 2024.

What a fun book and a wonderful reminder to all of us that our worst moments often lead to our best moments. When Jenny has everything imaginable go wrong in her life, car beyond repair, job lost, house blown over a cliff in a horrible windstorm, she has to rely on the kindness of a stranger, Luke. Although she had previously labeled him an "unfriendly," something wonderful happens when she needs his help. If you can imagine a recreational vehicle named "Joy" that is exactly what this story is about. Charlie, Jenny's son, is a true delight and the repartee between mother and son just plain wonderful. How Jenny learns to re-invent herself and truly find Joy is what this story is all about. This story wanted me to buy a recreational van and start visiting all the places I've never had time to go to in the past, whether in England, where this story takes place, or in the United States, where I live. I heartily recommend this book. Although I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this novel, my opinion are my own.

Jenny lost her job and her home, so along with her teenage son, goes off with their neighbor in his motorhome to discover England. Jenny and her son learn to grow closer, while Jenny and her neighbor also grow closer.

Jenny James may not be a disaster but disasters seem to find her. She lost her job, car, and house all in the same day. All seemed dismal until Luke invited Jenny and her son, Charlie, on a roadtrip where Jenny confronts her past and welcomes her future.

Debbie Johnson has a way of crafting stories that warm my heart. I have to admit, I was drawn to this book because it featured a single mom who had the universe seemingly working against her. Jenny's had a lot to overcome, and it's alway so inspiring and feel-good when I can root for the character.

As a single mom, I could relate to many of the battles Jenny had fought and the feelings she felt. Jenny worked hard to build a life for her and Charlie, and it was a nice life. Did she want more? Probably, and I guess all these disasters were the motivation she needed.

Taking that chance and going on the road with Luke was a fantastic decision. I have to say, these excursions were so much fun. I loved the way they selected where they would go, and I liked that I "saw" so much of England. Many of the books I read tend to be set in London. London's great and all, but there are other places to explore in that country. It was a delight that Johnson exposed me to so many other sites.

But that time in the camper van wasn't just about seeing the sites, it was a great way for Luke and Jenny to grow closer. They both carried so much pain and hurt from their past and had accepted their solitary lives. Yet, they found so much comfort in each other, trusting one another with their hurts and fears.It was so lovely seeing their relationship take root and grow while they also healed together.

Parts of this story were heavy, but overall, the book was light. Packed with lots of humor, heart, and lovely life lessons, I was left feeling so happy from reading this book. How could I resist a book with a focus on finding peace, self-discovery, and finding your happy. It was all bound to rub off on me in a good way, and it did.

This was a sweet story. I liked following along with the characters. I felt some parts were a bit rushed, but overall I enjoyed the story.

ARC Book Review: *Jenny James Is Not a Disaster* by Debbie Johnson

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5 stars)

Debbie Johnson’s *Jenny James Is Not a Disaster* is a heartwarming and humorous tale that captures the essence of resilience, self-discovery, and the unexpected twists life can throw at you. This novel is a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and romance, making it a perfect read for anyone looking for a story about overcoming adversity with a smile.

Plot Summary:

Jenny James, a single mother in her thirties, is no stranger to bad days. She juggles the typical challenges of motherhood, financial strain, and an uninspiring job with a commendable sense of humor. However, her life takes a turn for the worse when she experiences a Very Bad Day. Losing her job, her car, and her home all at once, Jenny is left with seemingly no options.

Estranged from her family and with no place to go, Jenny and her teenage son, Charlie, find an unexpected ally in their reclusive neighbor, Luke. Living in a cozy RV, Luke offers them a temporary refuge and an opportunity for a nomadic lifestyle. As they hit the road together, Jenny discovers a new sense of freedom and begins to reflect on her past, her present, and what the future might hold.

Characters:

- **Jenny James:** Jenny is a relatable and endearing protagonist. Her perseverance in the face of adversity and her unwavering love for her son make her a character you can't help but root for. Her journey from despair to self-discovery is both inspiring and entertaining.
- **Charlie:** Jenny's teenage son is a typical adolescent dealing with the upheavals of his life with a mix of frustration and resilience. His relationship with Jenny adds depth to the story.
- **Luke:** The reclusive but kind-hearted neighbor who opens his RV and his life to Jenny and Charlie. Luke’s character provides a sense of stability and support, and his own journey of self-discovery intertwines beautifully with Jenny’s.

Themes:

1. **Resilience and Overcoming Adversity:** Jenny’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Despite the many challenges she faces, she never gives up, showing that even in the darkest times, there is always a way forward.
2. **Self-Discovery and Personal Growth:** As Jenny adapts to her new circumstances, she learns more about herself and what she truly wants from life. This theme of self-discovery is central to the novel and is portrayed with sincerity and warmth.
3. **Community and Support:** The novel highlights the importance of community and the kindness of others in times of need. Luke’s unexpected support plays a crucial role in Jenny’s journey, emphasizing that help can come from the most unlikely places.

Writing Style:

Debbie Johnson’s writing is engaging, witty, and heartfelt. She has a knack for creating relatable characters and situations that resonate with readers. The humor in the narrative lightens the heavy themes, making the story both enjoyable and thought-provoking.

Final Thoughts:

*Jenny James Is Not a Disaster* is a charming and uplifting novel that will leave readers feeling hopeful and inspired. Debbie Johnson has crafted a story that is both humorous and poignant, with characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page.

Highly recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary women's fiction with a touch of romance and a lot of heart.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely loved this book. While it's not out until July 9th, this is one of those books with an endearing lead character. Jenny James may not be a disaster, but her life turned upside down overnight. Her house falls down a cliff (literally) and it takes everything from her life so far along with it. When her neighbor (who saves her from going over the cliff after cherished photos of her son) invites her to travel with him for a few weeks to see if the "camper life" is for her, she starts a blog about her travels along with her new friend Luke and her son Charlie.

I read this book over a weekend, and I loved the character that Debbie Johnson has created. She has her flaws as we all do, but you can't help but root for her to find her way in her new life.

🌊🏡🌧From calamity city to freedom and joy!

What a transformation from the first chapters of Brit Jenny James's story to the end! Her initial problems in Norfolk were catastrophic and yet, her eighteen year-old son Charlie and a kind stranger who's a motor home nomad help her "weather the storm" and embrace the freedom of starting fresh and unencumbered. This is a nice piece of women's fiction, maybe felt a slight bit slow for me, about second chances, coming to terms with the past, and embracing joy wherever you find it.

Single mom Jenny has lived her life since a teenager making a stable environment for her precious son. But he's on the cusp of independence and that plays into her insecurities about the future. She's a very real, very sympathetic character. As is typical, perpetually-starving teen Charlie. And Luke, the caravan nomad with a tragic backstory who takes the pair under his wing and gives them a month of non-stop touring and activity throughout the English countryside in summer.

There is a very, very slow-burn bit of sweet romance, but the author focuses on Jenny's trial of fire (rain and wind?!) and how she makes her way to the other side. Inspiring, real and a good read.

Thanks to Harper and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

Sweet women’s fiction, with a tiny bit of a romance.

Jenny left home at 17, had a baby at 18, and her boyfriend left them soon after. Estranged from her parents, she has lived for 18 years as a single mum to her son Charlie.

Until the day their life fell apart — she got laid off, her car broke down, and their coastal Norfolk cottage fell off a cliff into the sea.

This forces Jenny and Charlie to change their routine; and courtesy of their neighbor who lived in a motor home, they find themselves on the roadtrip of a lifetime.

3.75 stars

A sweet and simple family tale with a lot of heart and humor. Jenny James and her 18 year old son Charlie have had a good life, but with the usual single mom caveats: no money, no extras, financial and job insecurity, etc. Then one day their rented cottage literally slides down a cliff after days of heavy rain -- the same day Jenny's job becomes redundant.

Fate intervenes in the form of a nomadic gentleman traveling in his motor coach. Luke offers Jenny and Charlie a week or two of respite from reality by accompanying him on his wanderings. He, of course, has an interesting story all his own. The trio bond and have a great time. They are all good for each other, especially Jenny and Luke, the two veterans of heartache, guilt, and trust issues.

Jenny is sometimes an exasperating character. She has had to carry on by herself for so long she has lost the ability to collaborate emotionally and finds herself repeating the same mistakes her parents made with her.

It's a fun trip with this sort of family as they just enjoy each other and the unknown fun of the open road. Lessons are learned, new opportunities present themselves, and a lot of forgiveness and communication comes about. Yes, it's a little sentimental but not treacly. Jenny's banter with the two guys is especially endearing. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

What a delight. I loved this book so much, it made me laugh and it certainly had me in tears on more than one occasion. As a mother of boys, I loved the relationship between Jenny and Charlie 💙 Just when you think nothing else can go wrong…
You’re in for a treat with this one- 5 stars from me

Great Read!!! A positive story after disaster hits. Jenny James is a delight. With help from the neighbor that lives in a motor home Jenny is on a adventure along with her 18 year old son.

Jenny James, a single mother, is having an exceptionally tough day. Upon arriving at work, she learns her job is at risk, her car won't start, and upon returning home with her son Charlie, they witness their cottage falling off a cliff. Now almost homeless, jobless, and with a broken car, they notice a large motorhome, previously beside her cottage, now safely away from the cliff. The owner, Luke, invites them inside.

Luke, the owner of the spacious RV, offers Jenny and Charlie a chance to join him on a summer journey. Jenny is at a crossroads, contemplating her future, while Charlie, now eighteen, is preparing for university in the fall.

Accompanied by Luke's dog Betty, the four embark on an adventure. Jenny, who left home as a teenager after a dispute with her parents, had to mature quickly when her boyfriend Rob left her alone with a two-year-old.

Review to come.

Love the cover✔️
Interesting description ✔️
New Author to me ✔️

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC ❤️

Thank you to @netgalley and @HarperMuse for this ARC. Jenny is having a rough week. Her car won't start, she has been put on notice that she is going to lose her job and when she finally arrives home, she finds her house hanging off the side of a cliff due to torrential rains. After she risks her life to trying to save a couple of family photos, she is saved by her new neighbor that lives in an RV not far from her house. With no hope in site, her, her son and their new friend decide to embark on a road trip in Luke's RV. This trip now dubbed "A trip to find Joy" takes them to several parts of the UK but can she truly find a home once again? I enjoyed this book and their adventures! #JennyJamesisNotaDisaster #DebbieJohnson #HarperMuse #July2024

This was a cute book. I absolutely LOVED the beginning; the first few sentences made me chuckle and I was sure this book was going to be amazing! Unfortunately, about halfway down the line, I started to lose interest a little. The story was a bit slow for me and it wasn't as gripping (and funny) as the beginning anymore. I did finish the book, and I liked how the story unfolded. I just expected a bit more.

Debbie Johnson's "Jenny James Is Not a Disaster" is a fun read that takes you through what many would consider if it happened to you: a rollercoaster of loss, discovery, and self-realization. This story captures the essence of resilience and shifting priorities when life throws unexpected challenges your way. (no matter how outrageous the challenges maybe)

Plot Summary:

The story revolves around Jenny James, a woman who faces significant losses that lead her to reassess her life's priorities. With the help of a stranger, Jenny embarks on a new adventure that allows her to explore a long-held secret dream, brings about reconciliation, and deepens her understanding of herself and others.

Characters:

The witty and endearing protagonist, Jenny James, stands out with her sharp sayings and quirky expressions. Her internal conflicts and resilience add depth to her character, making her relatable and lovable.

Jenny James may sometimes feel like a disaster, but her story is one of resilience, joy, and self-acceptance.

The Author:
Debbie Johnson's writing in this book is engaging and infused with a lighthearted flair that makes the book a joy to read. Her ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments kept me hooked from start to finish. However, one minor drawback is the somewhat unrealistic portrayal of blog writing and follower counts, which could have been more grounded. (as a blog writer myself)

I am so impressed with Johnson's writing that I've already added many of her other books to my wishlist for future reading.

For readers who enjoy lighthearted yet meaningful fiction, I recommend checking out Sophie Kinsella's works. I loved her book "My Not So Perfect Life." Much like Debbie Johnson's, her novels feature relatable heroines, humorous situations, and a blend of romance and personal growth that seem similar to "Jenny James Is Not a Disaster."

Thank you, NetGalley, for the early read.

Thanks kindly to NetGalley and Harper Muse for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Jenny James Is Not a Disaster follows Jenny James as she embarks on a motorhome adventure with her son and a good samaritan who helps them out after their home is destroyed in a terrible storm. Well, it actually partially falls off the cliff it's perched on.

The novel kicks off with a series of disasters that leads them on this journey together, and explores themes of identity, single parenthood, family and romance. I loved the mother-son bond between Jenny and Charlie, and Jenny's attempts to not repeat the same mistakes her parents made with her when she was the same age as her son.

I also quite adored the slow burn romance between Jenny and Luke throughout the novel.

Overall a comfy and predictable read, and likely to be enjoyed by a wide variety of folks.

"I stare at him and wonder just how far out of my comfort zone I need to be--I lost my job, my house fell off a cliff, and I have just noticed that I somehow have bug bites on my cleavage."

That's pretty much the gist of the story, or at least, the beginning.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Nevertheless, it's a hard one for me to rate. I loved it to begin with; the author has such a great sense of humor. Having lost her home, Jenny and her teen son, Charlie, end up in a stranger's motor home, touring England, and it got a little monotonous in their travels (or so it felt to me). However, Debbie Johnson is a good writer, and that kept me reading.