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michelereader's review against another edition
4.0
Greta James is a successful indie musician with her second album about to be released. Her biggest fan was her mother Helen, who would go to her concerts cheering her on. Her father Conrad, being a practical man, couldn’t find it in himself to encourage his talented daughter in a career he felt was too uncertain. When Helen unexpectedly passes away, Greta is crushed and puts her career on hold. She agrees to go with her father on a cruise to Alaska, which was to be a 40th wedding anniversary celebration for her parents. This trip could mean a chance for Greta to finally connect with her father, who also deeply mourns the loss of Helen. And perhaps the cruise could be a chance for Greta to heal and get back to what she loves, making music.
The Unsinkable Greta James tugs at the heart as it deals with loss, regret and the journey to forgiveness. I fully enjoyed author Jennifer E. Smith’s first adult novel, after writing many popular YA books. The family dynamics will probably be relatable for most people. The loss of a parent, in this case a wonderful mother, resonated so deeply that I found myself tearing up often. There’s also some romance mixed in and some light moments. Greta is a very appealing character and all of the people in this book feel very real. The setting of an Alaskan cruise was well done – I’ve never had an interest in going there but this book might have changed my mind.
Many thanks to Ballantine Books / Random House for gifting me this enjoyable and touching book in advance of its release.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
The Unsinkable Greta James tugs at the heart as it deals with loss, regret and the journey to forgiveness. I fully enjoyed author Jennifer E. Smith’s first adult novel, after writing many popular YA books. The family dynamics will probably be relatable for most people. The loss of a parent, in this case a wonderful mother, resonated so deeply that I found myself tearing up often. There’s also some romance mixed in and some light moments. Greta is a very appealing character and all of the people in this book feel very real. The setting of an Alaskan cruise was well done – I’ve never had an interest in going there but this book might have changed my mind.
Many thanks to Ballantine Books / Random House for gifting me this enjoyable and touching book in advance of its release.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
catmclaugh04's review against another edition
4.0
I thought this book was super cute! A bit cheesy, but I’ve read this author before but she’s dependable for a cheesy but good story and decent writing for sure. Made me cry and overall very satisfying
lizzyfoureyes's review against another edition
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Overall, it was an okay read, though by the end, I found myself really disliking Ben—something about his character just didn’t sit right with me as the story unfolded. It wasn’t quite what I expected, but it offered a unique perspective on the complexities of relationships.
If you’re looking for a light read with a different take on love and connection, this one might be worth checking out!
nicollem777's review against another edition
4.0
Good, heartfelt story. I wish there was more in the story about Greta and her Dad instead of the love interest. I enjoyed the writing style and the scenery of the book.
christinamapes's review against another edition
3.0
It's a little bit family drama, a little bit romcom. I liked the cruise ship setting.
kbbae's review against another edition
2.0
This book was maddening. I kept wanting to grab the main character and shake her and scream GET SOME THERAPY! The toxic father did not earn or deserve a relationship with her in any way. She owed him nothing. Her guilt was so unfounded at so many points. Why should she be expected to remember and revere her parents anniversary? It’s weird. The feelings of a grown man are protected over his child’s again and again and the family seems to think that’s normal.
It’s always the responsibility of the parent to form a healthy and happy relationship with the child and not the other way around. If your adult children don’t have a connection with you that is YOUR FAULT. I found myself wishing he would fall off the boat.
It’s always the responsibility of the parent to form a healthy and happy relationship with the child and not the other way around. If your adult children don’t have a connection with you that is YOUR FAULT. I found myself wishing he would fall off the boat.
dhirschhorn's review against another edition
5.0
I really loved this one. In spite of or maybe because of the way it made me viscerally and ugly cry (but in that such good way that feels cleansing and like it's connecting you with others out there in the mess). This book is in the details but also in the universal, that perfect balance. I'm so sorry that it's over but love that it didn't answer all of the questions. Some of you please read this so we can chat.
arielwages's review against another edition
4.0
A light read about some heavy topics - grief and loss, difficulty in relationships, following your dreams. The plot is enjoyable and overall just a nice, heartfelt book.
nyclauren's review against another edition
3.0
I enjoyed this book, but I wish the author would have focused more on the dynamics of Greta and her father instead of the romance. But I did enjoy the setting of the Alaskan cruise.