This Is Us by Helen McGinn is a poignant and hopeful story about friendship, marriage, and new beginnings. It’s the story of Stella’s journey, as she struggles to find her way in life without her husband.
My Overview
Stella and Simon have been married for eleven years and have three children. They also have a beautiful home in London and a successfull business. Their life is perfect … or so Stella thinks. One evening, Simon abruptly tells Stella he no longer feels the same way about her, and leaves. Just like that, he disappears. Suddenly, Stella’s picture-perfect life is shattered. She’s left devastated and trying to figure out what to tell their children.
As if that’s not tragic enough, the more Stella searches for clues and answers to piece together what’s happened, the more secrets and unfavorable information she uncovers about Simon. Not only does she not know what happened to her marriage, she doesn’t even know who Simon really is. While Stella tries to get her life back together, the mystery of Simon’s whereabouts and identity looms.
Is this story too heavy? No. It’s overall a hopeful and uplifting story about friendship and new beginnings. At the core of the story, is the unwavering support Stella receives from the women in her life. In her time of need, Stella was surprised by the support system she didn’t even know she had: her sister, close group of friends, colleagues, and those she meets along the way.
The storyline is well-balanced with humor, friendship banter, and hopeful moments. One of my favorite parts of the story was the trip Stella took with her friends to Florence. The vivid descriptions of the food, wine, art, and architecture truly transported me to that city. Just like Stella and her friends, I didn’t want their trip to end. It took me back to my own visit to Florence years ago.
My Recommendation
This is my first book by this author, and I loved it. This is a memorable story that will stay with me for a long time. Needless to say, I highly recommend this book. If you can, listen to the audiobook. It truly makes the story feel captivating and real.
I think this book would be a good selection for a book club. It offers a lot of food for thought and opportunites for discussions. Also, Stella and her friends had a book club themselves 📚🍷.
Have you read this story too? Which other books by Helen McGinn have you read?
Rachel @Waves of Fiction
This sounds like a story I’d enjoy. I wonder if there was any hint of a romance for Stella? Not a necessary component, but I always like at least the hint of a romantic HEA and it sounds like Stella deserves one!
Lucy
You shall read and find out … all I can say is that I did like the ending 😉.
Suzanne @ The Bookish Libra
This one is new to me and it sounds wonderful so thanks for putting it on my radar. 🙂
Lucy
You’re welcome. Hopefully you’ll be able to give this book a try 😉.
Lindsey @ Lindsey Reads
I haven’t read this author before, but this story does sound wonderful, emotional yet hopeful. I’m glad to hear your enjoyed it!
Lucy
It is. This one really took me by surprise, especially since it’s my first book by the author 😊.
Sam@WLABB
You mention all buzzwords that make me want to read something – uplifting, hopeful, humor. The synopsis had me thinking there was a bit of a domestic thriller going on there, but you have me thinking it’s more about healing and rising from the ashes. Sounds great!
Lucy
Glad you found it helpful! I wouldn’t consider this one a domestic thriller, but “rising from the ashes” would be accurate.
Lark
I haven’t read this author before but you make me want to give her a try. 😀
Lucy
I hope you’ll give this story a chance. I’m glad I stumbled upon this book 😊.