Member Reviews
This is such a fun book. Joy is 53 years old and is discovering herself while Visiting her sister in France. I just loved this story about older people living their lives for themselves. This book really resonated with me. I saw a lot of myself in Joy. I loved the characters. The book is funny and sweet. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
Joy is hosting a family Christmas for the first time since her divorce, she tries to please everyone as they demand different meals to suit their latest food fad, complain, argue, and expect her to wait on them hand and foot without a word of thanks. From Christmas Eve to New Year, she manages to keep her cool, I really felt for her and wanted to shout and make a scene on her behalf.
Expecting to wave all the family off, Joy is shocked when her daughter asks to remain while divorcing her husband. Faced with hosting her unappreciative daughter and also anticipating a role as childminder, Joy's sister's invitation to join her in France offers a perfect opportunity to escape the never ending dramas.
Joy's relief (and mine) when arriving at Isabel's rustic and chaotic home was immense, there she finds somewhere where she's loved and respected, and not merely regarded as The Provider. As the days pass, her confidence returns, she rediscovers her femininity and together the sisters improve Isabel's flagging business enterprise.
The characters are fun and believable, the plot humorous, recommended reading.
I have read so many fun books recently. Sisters Making Mischief was my latest read. I definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a light-hearted read.
Even the title is fun…this is a pleasant story of family and friends…holidays and problems…the main character tries to please her family…nothing seems to work…she packs up and goes to visit her sister…mayhem on the way…perhaps romance…I liked this book…it is fun…I like this author…curl up in a comfy chair with a cozy blanket…sit by the crackling fire…a cup of herbal tea…enjoy this story. Thanks Netgalley
This author never ever disappoints. The plot and characters were believable. I was Sucked in from the start. Of course I would Read another book by this author.
First, Joy’s character development was a highlight for me. Her transformation from the overlooked family member to someone who rediscovers her zest for life felt genuine and relatable. I especially loved how you contrasted her life back home with the freedom and chaos she finds in France with Isobel. The emotional shifts she experiences were well-paced, though I think the story could benefit from a few more reflective moments where she contemplates her evolving relationship with her children—this could add even more depth to the character.
Isobel, on the other hand, is such a breath of fresh air. I loved how she acted as a foil to Joy’s more restrained nature, but it might be interesting to see a bit more vulnerability from her, too. It would add balance to her character and deepen the bond between the sisters, especially as they support each other.
The humor in the book was delightful and often had me smiling (and sometimes laughing out loud), but I think there’s potential to explore a few more “serious” moments, especially with Sara’s divorce and John’s move to New York. These plot points felt like they had a lot of potential for emotional impact, but I sensed they were resolved quite quickly. A bit more tension before Joy escapes to France might make her journey feel even more rewarding.
Lastly, the setting in France was wonderfully depicted, and the atmosphere was rich and vivid. The potato farm was a great choice—so unexpected yet perfect for the themes of simplicity and reconnecting with life’s basics. I think it’s a great metaphor for Joy’s situation.