A story that had me laughing out loud, becoming totally invested in the characters and speed-reading just to find out how it ends (not just because I was reading for review!)
Here's a little breakdown of the plot -
The story follows a grandmother named Lola and her family as she slowly but unwillingly unravels her secrets of the past. Lola, who lives in a beautiful wine valley in Australia, must visit her birth town and face what she left behind 60 years ago.
The story is written from the point of view of a few of the characters: Lola, her journalist granddaughter Bett and other granddaughter, the dippy but fun-loving Carrie. As you may know already, I really like it when books are written this way because it helps you connect with many of the characters rather than just the protagonist.
So what did I think?
At first, from looking at the cover, I was quick to dismiss it as being only for the 'older reader', however I was wrong to think that. From reading the first chapter, I was hooked. This is really rare for me as it often takes me a good few chapters to draw me in. I definitely will be more accepting of all of books from now on.
Lola's humour is one of the aspects that had me reading on; for an 85-year-old, she's pretty funny. One of those grandmothers who don't care what people think, wears flamboyant clothing and is able to get you doing anything and everything! You know the kind!
I think I connected with the story well because my own Mother also emigrated to Australia with my brother when she was younger (before she had me), and my sister was born there. I'm definitely going to give this to her to read as I know she'll love it.
Who's it for?
The Trip of a Lifetime is for anyone who enjoys reading light-hearted stories packed with humorous and quick-witted grandma's! No, but really, if you're into women's fiction then you'll enjoy it. Also anyone who enjoys reading books from authors such as Jojo Moyes, Marian Keyes and Cathy Kelly. Monica's writing style is very similar.
It's a great book to take away with you on holiday this Easter!
The Trip of a Lifetime by Monica Mcinerney, published by Penguin, is available now. You can buy a paperback copy from Amazon UK* for £7.99.
*This is an affiliate link meaning I will receive a small profit if you buy from it.
I received this book from Penguin for review. All opinions are honest and my own.
Have any of your family members ever emigrated like Lola and my Mum? Let me know in the comments.
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