Book Review: The Happiness Project by Pippa James

Have you ever noticed that women need each other, but especially mothers need someone on their team?  Have you noticed that sometimes other moms can be just horrible in their judgement and criticism?  Have you ever felt convinced you were messing up your kids irreparably? Wondered if you're slowly poisoning them because they won't eat a darn vegetable despite your best efforts?  Wanted to crash on your best friend's couch in yoga pants with tears because it seems like you do everything at home, and at work, and at school?  If you can relate to any of those questions... you'll relate to my latest read. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and/or author through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

My first read of 2019 and a new-to-me author: Pippa JamesThe Happiness Project was a charming glimpse into the life of three mothers as they make a list of New Years Resolutions together.  Being a mother myself, I found I could relate to all of the women at times. I could sympathize with their worries of failure, the desire to not be judged less-than, and the questioning of their parenting choices.  Each woman's personality was well-developed - and with that, of course, was the fact that you may love them at times and detest them at times, and some days they were just off - much like real life. 

The storyline meandered nicely.  It wasn't too slow, it wasn't too fast - just a nice walk through their lives, culminating happily (which I will admit made me want to go join a fun run.)  A great fictional reminder - at times humorous, often heartfelt - that as women and mothers we need to find our tribes and back them up.  It was a pleasant read, but may have been more gripping if I had read Pippa's "I Will Survive" first. However, it definitely can be read as a stand-alone novel - easy enough to figure out. 

Caution for those who do not approve of swearing in their novels as one of the characters had a rougher vocabulary than the others.  I did not find this detracting as it seamlessly fit with her cheekiness as a whole. A timely plot considering the new year that'll make you want to grab your best mummy friends and share the love.

Published by Bookouture;  Publication Date February 12, 2019

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