Phaedra Patrick’s latest release, The Messy Lives of Book People, was the book I needed to read right now. Released May 31, 2022, by Park Row, readers are introduced to Liv Green, a 40-something trying to figure her life out. Working as a maid for her favorite author, Liv is surprised when she is tasked to finish the author’s last book. Why her? Why not her?
Synopsis from Goodreads
Mother of two, Liv Green barely scrapes by as a maid to make ends meet, often finding escape in a good book while daydreaming of becoming a writer herself. So she can’t believe her luck when she lands a job housekeeping for her personal hero, mega-bestselling author Essie Starling, a mysterious and intimidating recluse. The last thing Liv expected was to be the only person Essie talks to, which leads to a tenuous friendship.
But when Essie dies suddenly, a devastated Liv is astonished to learn of her last wish: for Liv to complete Essie’s final novel. But to do so, Liv will have to step into Essie’s shoes, and as Liv begins to write, she uncovers secrets from the past that reveal a surprising connection between the two women–one that will change Liv’s own story forever.
Positives
There are so many books mentioned throughout this book. Yes, there are some fictional books, ones written by Essie Starling. But many others are mentioned as being read by Liv or recommended to her by Essie. The books mentioned are household names (The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid) and not-so-common ones (Heartburn by Nora Ephron). So many books are mentioned; I did a post on them, and you can check that out here.
Negatives
I want to say that Jake, Liv’s husband is negative. But the way he and their relationship is written helps give Liv her motivation and drive.
Honestly, most of the men in the book could be a negative part of the book. While they aren’t flat or one-dimensional, they are not the nicest people. They all seem to want to control some part of the narrative. But in many ways, that helps to drive the story.
My Opinions
Liv Green is a 40-something mom of two teenage boys. She’s married. Overall, she’s okay with her lot in life. But she is stuck wondering if there is more out there for her. Guess who is feeling a lot like Liv lately? You got it, me! That’s why I found this book to be the perfect read right now. I’m happy with my husband and kids, but I feel like the Reba McEntire song Is There Life Out There. The song and the book feature women who are happy where they are but also may feel a bit left behind. And it’s okay to feel that way and also to make time to chase those dreams.
Overall, I feel The Messy Lives of Book People could resonate with everyone. We all have dreams that have been set aside for one reason or another. What would happen if we got the opportunity to make them come alive? Even if only for a little while? Would we take that chance, or would we turn it down?
I enjoyed reading The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper along with this book, and I look forward to reading more by this author.
Looking for some more books to read? Check out my other book reviews and my monthly reading wrap-ups.
Nice review, Pam. I love bookish books, and inspiring books like this one.
I liked one of her other books, so I’m waiting impatiently for this one. Nice job on your review.
Thank you!
I liked The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper and The Library of Lost and Found by this author too. Library’s theme sounds a bit similar to Messy Lives (with a completely different plot), so you might enjoy it too. Thanks for the review!