Book Review: This One Life

I want to extend my gratitude to NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of This One Life by Amanda Prowse. This novel took me on an emotional journey that left me both reflective and deeply moved.

Madeleine is a character I instantly connected with; her aspirations and the life she’s built for herself in LA felt so relatable. Just as she’s on the cusp of achieving her dreams, life throws her a curveball when her mother falls ill, pulling her back into her past and forcing her to confront choices she made years ago. Prowse skillfully navigates the complexities of familial obligations versus personal ambition, making me question what I would do in Madeleine’s shoes.

The themes of sacrifice and self-discovery are beautifully woven throughout the narrative. I appreciated how Prowse delves into the tough questions about happiness and fulfillment, particularly from a woman’s perspective. The emotional depth of Madeleine’s struggles made me reflect on my own life choices and the balance between pursuing dreams and honoring family.

The writing is poignant, with moments that tugged at my heartstrings. Prowse's ability to create relatable dilemmas made the story resonate on a personal level. The characters are well-developed, and I found myself invested in their journeys, particularly the complicated relationship between Madeleine and her mother.

Overall, This One Life is a powerful exploration of love, ambition, and the sacrifices we make along the way. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt women's fiction that challenges you to consider the price of happiness. I highly recommend it for your reading list in early 2025!