"Is This Seat Taken?: Random Encounters That Change Your Life" is one of three books by the author that use the same title. The only readily apparent differentiators are the subtitles of each book and minor changes to each cover. So, it all starts off a bit confusingly. However, I enjoyed the first book of this trilogy so much that I opted to read another.

While the book I read previously focused on more notable names and the lessons the author took away from their experiences, this one focuses more on everyday people the author has encountered along the way. I liked the juxtaposition between the books that emphasizes that there is always something we can learn from everyone, whether rich and famous or poor and seemingly unremarkable.

I look forward to reading the third book to see what approach it takes next.

Thank you to Kristin Kaufman, Greenleaf and NetGalley for advance review copies.

I liked the encounters but it took too long to get there.
Narrative was monotone. If you are gonna listen to the audiobook I recommend 2x speed.

Kristin S. Kaufman's Is This Seat Taken?: Random Encounters That Change Your Life is a thought-provoking work that explores the lessons that can be learned from strangers, helpers and friends that may be encountered throughout life.

The audiobook is well narrated by the author for the most part, although the first chapter that relied on imitating an accent was jarring and I feel the the the narration would have worked better without the accent.

The lessons from strangers provided an important perspective and the book is worth reading. I would have preferred more information and description of the takeaways in most chapters. The book overall was quite short but I did really appreciate the summary and reflection questions throughout.

I would consider reading from this author again in the future. Thank you to Net Galley and Greenleaf Audiobooks for providing an audio version of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I really struggled with the tone and pace of the narration. The basis of this book is excellent, but I recommend to read it instead of listening

Thank you to Greenleaf Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen and review this audiobook. I was drawn in when I read the description. Kristin S. Kaufman talks about encounters in her life that have led to life lessons or have given her reason to pause. I found the book had good information about things you can learn when you least expect it but found the narration very flat. I struggled a bit to listen to the entire audiobook.

Is This Seat Taken? is a charming collection of stories that showcases the power of chance encounters and how they can change our lives. The author shares heartfelt and humorous moments that remind us every stranger has the potential to make a difference.

I loved how relatable each story is. They feel like snapshots of everyday life, prompting me to reflect on my own encounters that have shaped who I am. Whether it’s a conversation on a bus or a moment in a coffee shop, the book captures the magic of being open to the world around us.

The writing is engaging and easy to read, making it perfect for those quiet moments when you need a little inspiration. If you’re looking for a feel-good read that celebrates human connections, I highly recommend this one!

Thank you to the author, narrator, publisher and Net Galley for providing a free e-audio version of this title in exchange for my review.

This was a nice, short, collection of experiences the author had with random people. Narrated by the author, and enjoyable to listen to.

4 stars for 'really liked it'. Recommend to all!

This book made me think. I love the concept of looking at lessons we have learned or ways we have been blessed with random experiences. I felt that some of the experiences were a stretch for the lesson but it obvious different if you experience it.

The book is about random encounters that change your life. Kristen writes about her personal experiences and how random encounters bring joy and happiness to her life. This book is narrated by the author Kristin Kaufman. Kristin's voice is not unpleasant but it also didn't inspire me to want to listen. I found the stories to be flat. I have read other books with this same theme and the stories have more life to them. I would give 2.5 but rounded up.
Thank you to NetGalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks for the ARC

The book covers familiar ground, living in the present, finding purpose, and aligning oneself which leads to happiness. While these ideas are undeniably important, they’re also widely discussed in countless similar works.The author, who also narrates the audiobook, shares stories of individuals she’s met who have "opened her eyes" to life's deeper truths, but the content feels rather standard in this genre. Narration itself is pleasant.