the setup
Kate and Cam Whitacre are having the best times of their lives. They have a wonderful relationship, including their young son Charlie. Cam’s a university English literature professor and Kate’s ready to return to work. On the day she interviews for the job, it becomes apparent she’s met her prospective boss, Hugh Lancaster, earlier…during an embarrassing gym incident. He later turns out to be her lifeline, providing invaluable support when life deals Kate a devastating hand. Cam is diagnosed with a cruel terminal illness at just 38-years old that will cut short their idyllic life and immerse Kate in grief that she’s unprepared to manage.
the heart of the story…
If you’ve ever suffered the unexpected loss of someone close and dear to you, Kate’s experience will feel familiar but extraordinarily so. Rarely have I seen grief portrayed in such a meaningful and authentic way, addressing the minor moments that strike at unpredictable times as well as the more pivotal ones. Kate doesn’t try to pretend or power her way through it, allowing herself to just be in the experience until she’s ready to emerge on her own terms. But at her side throughout is the steadfast Hugh who became close to Cam and was that proverbial solid shoulder for Kate and Charlie.
the narration…
The story is set in Australia and I loved that the narrator reflected that in her dialect. She’s a great storyteller and captured Kate beautifully.
the bottom line…
As the title implies, Cam’s note writing was an important element of the story but not the focus. This was all about Kate finding her way for not only herself but her young son, being able to manage through the cycles of grief to a different life, one to create and hold onto while figuring out how those lovely memories can transition from painful to providing joy and solace. It’s clear the author is writing from experience because she captures this so remarkably. I’ve been Kate, felt everything she did quite viscerally. Despite the subject matter, this is a beautiful story told with sensitivity and honesty. Listen to it if you have that option.
Book Info
- Release Date: November November 28, 2023
- Narrator: Leeanna Walkman
- Audio Length: 10 hours, 32 minutes
- Publisher: Zibby Books
Listen to a Sample!
Blue Mood Café 
Wonderful review Jo sounds like an emotional listen!
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Thank you, Nicki💜 It was but in a very meaningful way.
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Wow, sounds very emotional!
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It is, Joanne, but not in a gratuitous way💜
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This sounds like such a beautiful read but a little too emotional for me at this point in my life. Such a lovely review Jonetta.
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Thank you, Jodie💜 Understand completely. Timing is everything and I loved it as it brought back relatable memories.
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Wonderful review Jo, it sounds like an emotional and powerful read x
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Thank you, Sarah💜 Powerful is the perfect word!
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It sounds like one that can prepare me with emotions with the loss of loved ones. Both of my parents are in their 80’s and my MIL is 94. Thank you for your review Jonetta!
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Thank you, Diane💜 That’s it exactly.
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As I already told you, this story sounds like one that would have me blubbering. Excellent review!
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Thank you, Tessa💜 If you’ve ever experienced loss, you’re gonna feel it here.
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Oh, dear. This sounds fantastic, but I know I’d be a mess trying to read it. Wonderful review.
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Thank you, Christopher💜 I had my messy moments but overall, it was inspiring.
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Lovely review, Jo. Being a widow, I understand that loss, but I was 59 with grown children, young and with kids is a totally different thing. This sounds like a very emotional, yet hopeful book.
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Thank you, Carla💜 Though your circumstances are different, the heart of the grief may be similar. You’re absolutely right about it still being hopeful.
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