THE SUMMER JOB by LIZZIE DENT

Out Now

Well, there’s no wonder the TV rights for this little beauty have been snapped up! 

 I started reading this book at 3am in the morning when I couldn't sleep. I was still reading at 3pm! I loved, loved, and loved this book. It gives you a warm hug. The characterisation, the plot, the setting, the pace and the writing instantly draw you in. I was so invested in the main character Birdie, and her supporting cast of well-drawn characters: Irene and James and Bill and Heather. 

Right from the start, there I was in Scotland in a hotel as if I was there and working there with the characters. I took in the scenery, took myself fishing, to a loch, to a rundown cottage, to a fishing village and to a cosy family home. The descriptions were so cleverly drawn, I could see and taste and smell the surroundings, the food, the newly renovated hotel, but most importantly, I felt the emotions of the characters and I was rooting for them right from the start.   When I finished the book, I was so disappointed. I would have happily stayed there and watched the characters making tea and going about their everyday lives.  I believe this is Lizzie Dent's first adult novel and oh, my goodness, I haven't loved something this much for so long. This book is a breath of fresh air. This book will make you laugh; ugly cry and shake your head in despair. It's a story of friendship. It's a love story. It is a lesson about life and how our insecurities and our past can shape our future though our behaviour and past experiences. It's a story about hope and friendship.  At one point, I was reading and cringing at the car crash that was about to happen for the main character Birdie, but loving it at the same time.  Buy this book. Take yourself off to Scotland and enjoy the ride. You won't be disappointed.  I would thoroughly recommend this book.