the setup…
Eddie Winston finds joy in almost every aspect of his life. He volunteers at a charity shop in Birmingham, England, sorting through the donations brought in by the living and from those who’ve passed on. He’s highly perceptive, knowing when he needs to put something aside until the original donator returns to see if the item can be returned. Bella was one of those who had turned in some very precious items belonging to her late boyfriend and love of her life. She’s only 24-years old and is struggling with her grief. She and Eddie develop a friendship, especially when she learns that he’s never been kissed and it becomes her mission to help him find love. Did I mention he’s 90-years old?
the heart of the story…
I don’t know what I loved more, Eddie’s zest for life or the friendship between him and Bella. They were most certainly the odd couple, she with her youth and pink hair and he a nonagenarian. There are so many funny and heartwarming moments but none more than the flashbacks to his youth when he had found his true love, forbidden in that time. Her name was Birdie Bennett and we learn everything from her point of view.
the narration…
Separate narrators are used to provide the points of view for Eddie, Bella and Birdie. I loved Kim Durham’s performance as Eddie, capturing his sunny spirit and smiling voice. Natalie Nightingale and Clare Corbett were equally compelling as Bella and Birdie, respectively.
the bottom line…
What a lovely story, one that I found delightful but also deeply insightful. It adeptly deals with grief and loss in a unique but relevant way. I loved Eddie and the only angst I had was whether or not he’d find that love, be it Birdie or someone else. This was the story I didn’t know I needed in this moment.
Book Info
- Release Date: December 31, 2024
- Narrators: Kim Durham, Clare Corbett & Natalie Nightingale
- Audio Length: 7 hours, 52 minutes
- Publisher: HarperAudio
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I’m glad that you enjoyed it as much as I did Jonetta. Great review!
Thank you, Jodie💜 It’s our kind of story!
Great review, this is on my blacklist, don’t know why I haven’t read it already!
Thank you, Sarah💜 The library hold pushed me to get going😏
I read this over Christmas, Jo, and absolutely loved it! Love your review and I need to get into gear and write mine. 💖📚
Thank you, Sandy💜 I’d love to see what you enjoyed about this book.
I really fancy this one Jonetta. Great review!
Thank you, Joanne💜 This was special.
Great review, I read this last year and loved it. One of my books of the year.
Thank you, Karen💜 It would definitely have made my list. Glad you loved it, too!
Fab review! I loved Lenni And Margot so I will definitely be adding this to my wishlist. xx
Thank you, Yvo💜 Highly recommend you do!
Not many people can do a multi-generational friendship like Marianne Cronin. Wonderful review, Jo. Another one that I need to move up that TBR mountain.
Thank you, Carla💜 And I need to bump up Lenni and Margot.
I will be starting to listen to it as soon as I finish the one I am in the middle of. I have already downloaded it and am ready after your wonderful review.