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The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything
Kate is sick of being taken for granted by her husband Vince. It’s bad enough that she allowed herself to be dragged away from the London life she loved, but now she’s constantly compelled to keep up with the (very smug) Joneses in this small home counties town. She hates it here. What happened to the fun-loving woman she used to be? At almost 50 Kate feels lost, overlooked and like nothing is ever going to change. That is, until she comes home to an unexpected party – one that she has to cater.
And that’s it. The final straw. Breaking point.
Scrambling out the bathroom window, Kate leaves. She has no plan, but a chance encounter at Euston station sees her following her own heart for once – to beautiful Scotland where a crumbling mansion and a handsome bookseller could be just what she’s needs . . .
As Kate discovers, sometimes you have to feel utterly lost to find out who you truly are.
And that’s it. The final straw. Breaking point.
Scrambling out the bathroom window, Kate leaves. She has no plan, but a chance encounter at Euston station sees her following her own heart for once – to beautiful Scotland where a crumbling mansion and a handsome bookseller could be just what she’s needs . . .
As Kate discovers, sometimes you have to feel utterly lost to find out who you truly are.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2024
3863 people are currently reading
1905 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Gibson
49 books509 followersFiona is an author and journalist who has written for many UK publications including The Observer, The Guardian, Marie Claire, Red, New Woman, Top Sante and Elle. She writes a monthly column for Sainsbury’s magazine and is a Contributing Editor at Red magazine.
Fiona lives in Scotland with her husband, their twin sons and daughter. She likes to draw, run 10k races, play her saxophone and lie in the bath with a big glass of wine, although not all at once.
Fiona lives in Scotland with her husband, their twin sons and daughter. She likes to draw, run 10k races, play her saxophone and lie in the bath with a big glass of wine, although not all at once.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 476 reviews
March 19, 2025
A cute and fun read!! My first from this author.
August 5, 2024
Started out strong and funny… then it went down some sort of weird path with very disjointed writing and superficial character development. I had high hopes… and yet… 2.5 stars at best
March 14, 2024
This was such a fun read! I loved it and could not put it down. Furthermore, Gibson keeps readers guessing so I couldn’t be entirely sure how the story would end. A cracker of a read.
The opening of the story is pretty dramatic: a woman is climbing out of her bathroom window to get away from her life (she lives in a bungalow, it’s not such a big drop). Flashback a few days and it quickly becomes clear why Kate has been driven to breaking point. With a husband that treats her more like a slave than a wife, an unsatisfying job and a bleak bungalow that is in homage to her husband’s late parents, I could really understand Kate’s desperation.
Leaving her husband, Vince, mid-party (he organised, she had to cater for – unexpectedly), it is the beginning of Kate’s adventures that see her impersonating another Kate, a trip to Scotland, a house clearance and an unexpected meeting. It was a book full of enjoyable, mad capers and I was energised to see what would happen to Kate next. Compared to her old life with Vince, it is like Kate is living for herself once more and even she recognises how desperately unhappy she had become.
However, Gibson does not abandon poor Vince completely and the chapters focussing on him back at home were equally entertaining. Whilst he is suffering, I liked seeing how he was trying to cope after the woman he relies on so much has left him. Equally, Vince has little idea about the reasons behind Kate’s departure, simply putting it down to her having a “mad moment” and that she will soon be back and everything will return to normal. Little does he realise exactly what Kate is going through.
I enjoyed seeing how both characters are at a crossroads in their lives and whether their new paths would make a difference for the better. It is evident early on that Kate will be happier in hew new adventures but it is never clear whether she will return to Vince and accept that their marriage can work out. On the other hand, it was interesting to see how Vince gradually adapts to being on his own, looking after his ever-faithful dog in the process. Vince grows to miss Kate for the person she is, rather than the services she provides to their household so that as the novel drew to a close, I could not anticipate what the future would hold for either of them.
Well written and deliciously entertaining throughout, this is a great pick-me-up read that was full of great characters and vivid writing. I thrived off Kate’s spontaneity and admired her risk-taking to get her to a place where she could finally be happy.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The opening of the story is pretty dramatic: a woman is climbing out of her bathroom window to get away from her life (she lives in a bungalow, it’s not such a big drop). Flashback a few days and it quickly becomes clear why Kate has been driven to breaking point. With a husband that treats her more like a slave than a wife, an unsatisfying job and a bleak bungalow that is in homage to her husband’s late parents, I could really understand Kate’s desperation.
Leaving her husband, Vince, mid-party (he organised, she had to cater for – unexpectedly), it is the beginning of Kate’s adventures that see her impersonating another Kate, a trip to Scotland, a house clearance and an unexpected meeting. It was a book full of enjoyable, mad capers and I was energised to see what would happen to Kate next. Compared to her old life with Vince, it is like Kate is living for herself once more and even she recognises how desperately unhappy she had become.
However, Gibson does not abandon poor Vince completely and the chapters focussing on him back at home were equally entertaining. Whilst he is suffering, I liked seeing how he was trying to cope after the woman he relies on so much has left him. Equally, Vince has little idea about the reasons behind Kate’s departure, simply putting it down to her having a “mad moment” and that she will soon be back and everything will return to normal. Little does he realise exactly what Kate is going through.
I enjoyed seeing how both characters are at a crossroads in their lives and whether their new paths would make a difference for the better. It is evident early on that Kate will be happier in hew new adventures but it is never clear whether she will return to Vince and accept that their marriage can work out. On the other hand, it was interesting to see how Vince gradually adapts to being on his own, looking after his ever-faithful dog in the process. Vince grows to miss Kate for the person she is, rather than the services she provides to their household so that as the novel drew to a close, I could not anticipate what the future would hold for either of them.
Well written and deliciously entertaining throughout, this is a great pick-me-up read that was full of great characters and vivid writing. I thrived off Kate’s spontaneity and admired her risk-taking to get her to a place where she could finally be happy.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2024
I thought the writing in this book was good; it was the plot that didn’t pan out. At the beginning of the book, I hated Vince. He absolutely took Kate and their life together for granted. I completely understood why she wanted to escape and deserved some time to figure things out. It just didn’t feel like she ever really did. The longer she stayed away, particularly without talking to Vince or being honest with Fergus and Alice, the harder she was to respect, the more it felt like she was hiding and pretending rather than figuring out who she was. It was Vince who showed real character growth, which surprised me. I admired how he reflected on his mistakes in the marriage, respected Kate’s need for space and determinedly worked towards becoming a better man and partner. In contrast, Kate did very little self-reflection and actively avoided thinking about how some of her decisions would affect the people she cared about. Also, the ending of the story was disappointing.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Avon Books UK and Fiona Gibson. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own.***
***Thank you to NetGalley, Avon Books UK and Fiona Gibson. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own.***
February 22, 2024
Long in the tooth re shouts of ‘Hilarious’ and ‘LOL Funny’ as often books I have started have not been..so I was more than happy to find both true within the first few pages, it really is hilarious and I really was laughing out loud
Kate leaves home via her bathroom window midway through a horrific ‘Abigail’s Party’ esque kind of neighbourhood do and starts an adventure, one she literally runs into and once started cannot get out of, more to the point she doesn’t want to
Vince is left wondering what on earth has happened and what can he do to maintain his life
Both characters are loveable but not perfect but I liked that the story didn’t vehemently favour either of them, just honest and open and not a barrage of anti one thing or another
Some very very funny moments and some poignant happenings turned this into a lovely read and it featured an old fashioned bookshop, what more could we want
Exhilaratingly feel good yet uncompromising on realities
Loved it
Kate leaves home via her bathroom window midway through a horrific ‘Abigail’s Party’ esque kind of neighbourhood do and starts an adventure, one she literally runs into and once started cannot get out of, more to the point she doesn’t want to
Vince is left wondering what on earth has happened and what can he do to maintain his life
Both characters are loveable but not perfect but I liked that the story didn’t vehemently favour either of them, just honest and open and not a barrage of anti one thing or another
Some very very funny moments and some poignant happenings turned this into a lovely read and it featured an old fashioned bookshop, what more could we want
Exhilaratingly feel good yet uncompromising on realities
Loved it
November 21, 2024
The Woman Who Ran Away From Everything is the nineteenth novel by British journalist and author, Fiona Gibson. Kate Weaver is in Scotland, quite a distance from her Buckinghamshire home, and she’s “assuming someone else’s identity and actually conning an older lady who’s shown me nothing but kindness”. When her husband Vince said, the previous night, at the impromptu party he was throwing, “Couldn’t you just knock up a buffet?”, it wasn’t quite the final straw, but close.
Having made a decent effort that is criticised, Kate climbed out the bathroom window and caught a bus. The further away from Shugbury she is, the more she realises just how much, and for how long, she’s been feeling taken for granted. She gave up the museum job she loved (assistant curator for childhood exhibits) to move away from London, her mother and brother, all her friends and an affordable flat in Bethnal Green.
Instead, she works part-time (reception at the Shugbury Spa Hotel, in uncomfortable heels), cooks, cleans, walks her absent step-daughter’s dog, manages Vince’s diary, handles admin and fends off trolls, and shapes his stream-of-consciousness notes into publishable form. His comedy appearances are handled by his agent but, somehow, Vince can’t lift a finger to help on the domestic scene.
Vince is really noticing her absence. Trouble is, Kate quickly realises from his texts, he’s missing her for all the wrong reasons. And while he acknowledges how well things run when Kate is around, he seems oblivious to his own shortcomings. Despite plenty of clues to on how to modify his behaviour, he misses every opportunity to save his marriage, only bemoaning his misfortune. Does his eventual epiphany come too late?
Meanwhile, at Osprey House, where she’s helping Alice get her late mother’s estate ready for sale, Kate’s deception hasn’t been uncovered: on the contrary, her efforts garner praise and appreciation. She falls in love with the rural Perthshire town, the same place her mother took Kate and her little brother for camping holidays, and finds the people genuinely welcoming, in stark contrast to her neighbours in Shugbury. Then there’s the delightful second-hand book shop, Off The Rails Books, lovingly curated by attractive, kind and thoughtful Fergus, who seems to be the polar opposite of Vince.
Gibson uses two narratives to tell the story, which takes a few unexpected turns before the final chapters. Her characters are appealing for all their very human flaws, and none is perfectly good or perfectly bad. Several of them have wise word to offer one another, and both protagonists discover support from surprising quarters. A moving and uplifting read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Avon Books UK
Having made a decent effort that is criticised, Kate climbed out the bathroom window and caught a bus. The further away from Shugbury she is, the more she realises just how much, and for how long, she’s been feeling taken for granted. She gave up the museum job she loved (assistant curator for childhood exhibits) to move away from London, her mother and brother, all her friends and an affordable flat in Bethnal Green.
Instead, she works part-time (reception at the Shugbury Spa Hotel, in uncomfortable heels), cooks, cleans, walks her absent step-daughter’s dog, manages Vince’s diary, handles admin and fends off trolls, and shapes his stream-of-consciousness notes into publishable form. His comedy appearances are handled by his agent but, somehow, Vince can’t lift a finger to help on the domestic scene.
Vince is really noticing her absence. Trouble is, Kate quickly realises from his texts, he’s missing her for all the wrong reasons. And while he acknowledges how well things run when Kate is around, he seems oblivious to his own shortcomings. Despite plenty of clues to on how to modify his behaviour, he misses every opportunity to save his marriage, only bemoaning his misfortune. Does his eventual epiphany come too late?
Meanwhile, at Osprey House, where she’s helping Alice get her late mother’s estate ready for sale, Kate’s deception hasn’t been uncovered: on the contrary, her efforts garner praise and appreciation. She falls in love with the rural Perthshire town, the same place her mother took Kate and her little brother for camping holidays, and finds the people genuinely welcoming, in stark contrast to her neighbours in Shugbury. Then there’s the delightful second-hand book shop, Off The Rails Books, lovingly curated by attractive, kind and thoughtful Fergus, who seems to be the polar opposite of Vince.
Gibson uses two narratives to tell the story, which takes a few unexpected turns before the final chapters. Her characters are appealing for all their very human flaws, and none is perfectly good or perfectly bad. Several of them have wise word to offer one another, and both protagonists discover support from surprising quarters. A moving and uplifting read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Avon Books UK
February 3, 2024
Many thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars
I was really enjoying this book and it was headed for 4 stars, until I got to the end. All of the chemistry and build up bottomed out and the book took a turn. It felt like a rush to the end when a few more chapters were needed to resolve everything in a meaningful way.
3 stars
I was really enjoying this book and it was headed for 4 stars, until I got to the end. All of the chemistry and build up bottomed out and the book took a turn. It felt like a rush to the end when a few more chapters were needed to resolve everything in a meaningful way.
October 17, 2024
3.5 ✨
This title is EVERYTHING!
I’m not sure any middle age woman can pass by this book without nodding her head in understanding. How I love the drop everything and escape to far away trope. ( Bonus points for landing at an Inn in Scotland) We are all tempted by that fantasy at one time or another (right?!!).
I had a bunch of fun with this book.
This title is EVERYTHING!
I’m not sure any middle age woman can pass by this book without nodding her head in understanding. How I love the drop everything and escape to far away trope. ( Bonus points for landing at an Inn in Scotland) We are all tempted by that fantasy at one time or another (right?!!).
I had a bunch of fun with this book.
October 5, 2024
An easy read but I would have preferred a more definite ending
November 10, 2024
Run of the mill “rom-com” with little com or rom. Didn’t go anywhere, full of cliched characters. A yawn. Also - sack the proofreader as so many typos!
October 24, 2024
Liked this. Bit predictable and ended up feeling a bit sorry for her husband (which I’m sure is not the idea of the book!)
September 12, 2024
Jeepers, did anyone read this book before they sent it to print? I picked up 3 errors while reading this. Vince says: ‘So, anyway, Colin’s looking after Vince while I’m here,’ Vince goes on. 🤣🤣🤣 it was supposed to be Jarvis the dog. Anyway, it was an okay read.
June 2, 2025
I really enjoyed it. Very well written! The story is about 50+ year olds and yet, I could really relate to the main character being myself the whole generation younger. Mature, adult relationship development, different kinds of life and relationship crisis, beautiful love story line and just loved the exploration of masculinity and femininity topics without judgement. The whole storyline just had a different spice to it, a unique spin from my usual reads in a romance genre.
March 2, 2024
Life is too short for a marriage to a despicable selfish husband and also for books about women being treated as doormats. Of course I expect Kat to find herself on her journey and lose her self-loathing along the way, but I won't be there to find out as I gave up after she ran into the dachshund lady with a very convenient mix-up.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book.
January 28, 2025
First book I read on kindle, 10/10 experience. Relatable book as someone who wishes she also could climb out of her window and run away to Scotland (to avoid my job).
April 1, 2024
3.5*
The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything is exactly as you would imagine with that little bit more. On the surface it appears as a light and funny read with chaotic scenes like the one on the front cover - Kate climbing out the bathroom window! It does not take long, however, for readers to understand that this book dives emotionally deeper as Kate’s people pleasing attitude has run aground with her selfish husband Vince resulting in their marriage coming under the spotlight.
‘Nah, don’t worry,’ Vince says dismissively. ‘Kate’ll sort that.’ And that’s it. That’s when I know I can’t do it anymore - be ‘obliging Kate’, that is.’
The book is told through both Kate and Vince’s viewpoint as they deal with separation and what their marriage was and will be. Obviously it’s about Kate finding herself and regaining her autonomy, however, the equally interesting journey is Vince discovering his independence without the assistance of a wife/partner. There are many enjoyable and laugh out loud moments. Equally there are many sad and heart wrenching moments that many readers are sure to either understand or relate to.
‘Just let go of the responsibilities,’ she adds, ‘and think about yourself for a change.’
The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything is a fun and heartwarming tale about marriage, separation, family, friends and learning that it is never too late to make your life everything you want it to be.
‘I’m beginning to remember who I am.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything is exactly as you would imagine with that little bit more. On the surface it appears as a light and funny read with chaotic scenes like the one on the front cover - Kate climbing out the bathroom window! It does not take long, however, for readers to understand that this book dives emotionally deeper as Kate’s people pleasing attitude has run aground with her selfish husband Vince resulting in their marriage coming under the spotlight.
‘Nah, don’t worry,’ Vince says dismissively. ‘Kate’ll sort that.’ And that’s it. That’s when I know I can’t do it anymore - be ‘obliging Kate’, that is.’
The book is told through both Kate and Vince’s viewpoint as they deal with separation and what their marriage was and will be. Obviously it’s about Kate finding herself and regaining her autonomy, however, the equally interesting journey is Vince discovering his independence without the assistance of a wife/partner. There are many enjoyable and laugh out loud moments. Equally there are many sad and heart wrenching moments that many readers are sure to either understand or relate to.
‘Just let go of the responsibilities,’ she adds, ‘and think about yourself for a change.’
The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything is a fun and heartwarming tale about marriage, separation, family, friends and learning that it is never too late to make your life everything you want it to be.
‘I’m beginning to remember who I am.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
March 4, 2024
The Woman Who Ran Away From Everything by Fiona Gibson was a quick, fun read that so many of us can relate to! We all feel we are taken for granted at times whether middle-aged or not and the awesome thing about this book is that it is dual POV with the husband, Vince (who was a grade A, self-absorbed Swine)
KAte gave up a life she loved to build a new life with her husband when she got married, but years later, she is in a rut so deep she sees no way out, until she does. Breaking point, a party she wasn't expecting to come home to but one she is expected to cook for and clean up after. She does a bunk out of the bathroom window and books it to London.
Fiona Gibson is able to pull at your heartstrings and play them like a cello, resonating to the very core of your being. An utterly relatable escapade that we can all be on board with in one way or another
Thank you very much to Netgalley, Avon Books UK, Avon andd the author Fiona Gibson for this lovely ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
KAte gave up a life she loved to build a new life with her husband when she got married, but years later, she is in a rut so deep she sees no way out, until she does. Breaking point, a party she wasn't expecting to come home to but one she is expected to cook for and clean up after. She does a bunk out of the bathroom window and books it to London.
Fiona Gibson is able to pull at your heartstrings and play them like a cello, resonating to the very core of your being. An utterly relatable escapade that we can all be on board with in one way or another
Thank you very much to Netgalley, Avon Books UK, Avon andd the author Fiona Gibson for this lovely ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
February 29, 2024
*I received a copy of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this opportunity*
Kate has had enough. She realized this as she’s halfway out her bathroom window, the sounds of the house party she didn’t know her husband was throwing spilling out into the garden. The used-and-abused wife of comedian Vince Weaver, Kate pretty much single-handedly raised her stepdaughter, manages her husband’s social and professional calendar, written two books for him, cleaned, cooked, cared for the dog, worked her own job, and somehow managed to scrounge up some awful treats for the local bake sale. And what has her husband done? Become an absolute twat as soon as he has a whiff of fame years ago and uprooted their lives to relocate to his parent’s house.
And so, Kate absconds her life and runs away to London as a forty something and the story begins.
Heartwarming and a little unexpected, THE WOMAN WHO RAN AWAY FROM EVERYTHING proves that you’re never too old to make your life into what you want it to be. Told through the dual POVs of Kate (the runner) and, surprisingly, Vince (the wanker husband) this book followed Kate finding her own life and love of life and Vince figuring out how to be a successful adult without the wife he’s been taking advantage of.
I truly enjoyed both characters, with Vince’s story and unexpected (but much appreciated) bonus– it was very vindicating to follow Vince realize how much he depended on Kate and, eventually, mature into a considerate person. This was a delightful and light read, I only wish the book had been longer to really wrap up the stories in a meaningful and purposeful way.
Kate has had enough. She realized this as she’s halfway out her bathroom window, the sounds of the house party she didn’t know her husband was throwing spilling out into the garden. The used-and-abused wife of comedian Vince Weaver, Kate pretty much single-handedly raised her stepdaughter, manages her husband’s social and professional calendar, written two books for him, cleaned, cooked, cared for the dog, worked her own job, and somehow managed to scrounge up some awful treats for the local bake sale. And what has her husband done? Become an absolute twat as soon as he has a whiff of fame years ago and uprooted their lives to relocate to his parent’s house.
And so, Kate absconds her life and runs away to London as a forty something and the story begins.
Heartwarming and a little unexpected, THE WOMAN WHO RAN AWAY FROM EVERYTHING proves that you’re never too old to make your life into what you want it to be. Told through the dual POVs of Kate (the runner) and, surprisingly, Vince (the wanker husband) this book followed Kate finding her own life and love of life and Vince figuring out how to be a successful adult without the wife he’s been taking advantage of.
I truly enjoyed both characters, with Vince’s story and unexpected (but much appreciated) bonus– it was very vindicating to follow Vince realize how much he depended on Kate and, eventually, mature into a considerate person. This was a delightful and light read, I only wish the book had been longer to really wrap up the stories in a meaningful and purposeful way.
February 22, 2025
A casual, lighthearted read that I enjoyed during quiet hours of the week, but what the hell Kate? She was never honest with how she felt to her husband, gaslighted him for not listening to her, um you kind of have to tell him something for him to hear you? Played with Fergus’ emotions, dipped into other peoples lives when it suited her and never really knew how to make a decision except how to run away from one. I wanted to like the story, but the lack of self awareness became very cumbersome.
August 18, 2024
I enjoyed this book- it is very similar to Fleishman is in trouble, which I very much enjoyed. But the thing about that book is I felt bad for both characters, and in this book, I only felt bad for Kate. Vince was a total unrepentant twat. It was hard to feel sorry for a grown man who doesn’t know how to take care of a dog (let it out in the morning, take it for walks, feed it the strict diet that it needs to be healthy.) he is truly so self-centered, I can’t believe Kate didn’t leave him sooner. He’s also not funny, and he’s a stand-up comedian. Can’t see why that didn’t work out. Although I do feel like Kate was very immature and selfish about the situation with Alice. I don’t really feel like Vince’s redemption arc in the end was deserved- it was hard to feel like he really deserved any kind of reunion with kate. And she kinda leaves Fergus high and dry at the bookshop to rush home to her estranged husband who hurt himself because he was a fucking idiot and didn’t ask his neighbor for help hanging a door. Is he ever gonna tell her about his fling with the neighbor? I don’t actually care I think. I found the ending disappointing because kate caved to the man child she married and gives up her lovely, independent life to go play nursemaid to him. If this was a library book, I wouldn’t mind, I would just return it, but I bought so I own it now. (Eye roll)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2025
Poorly Written
I was really looking forward to reading The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything - it seemed like it would be a fun, engaging story. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy it at all. First of all, I absolutely despised Vince. His so-called ‘character growth’ felt forced and superficial, like the author was just ticking a box. And then there’s Kate - she just kept making sketchy, selfish choices that made it impossible to root for her.
I was especially unhappy with both characters cheating. It would have been far more interesting if we saw them get divorced first and then navigate new relationships. On top of that, I wanted to see more of Alice and her B&B - those parts had so much potential but were barely explored.
The ending was dreadful. It felt rushed and incomplete. Fergus was barely in the picture, so I actually thought they had broken up until the very last pages. And Kate choosing to stay in London? That made no sense at all, especially since she kept saying she felt at home in Scotland.
To make matters worse, the book was poorly written and had several errors - like the dog being called ‘Vince’ at one point, and other instances of incorrect wording.
All in all, this was such a disappointment.
I was really looking forward to reading The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything - it seemed like it would be a fun, engaging story. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy it at all. First of all, I absolutely despised Vince. His so-called ‘character growth’ felt forced and superficial, like the author was just ticking a box. And then there’s Kate - she just kept making sketchy, selfish choices that made it impossible to root for her.
I was especially unhappy with both characters cheating. It would have been far more interesting if we saw them get divorced first and then navigate new relationships. On top of that, I wanted to see more of Alice and her B&B - those parts had so much potential but were barely explored.
The ending was dreadful. It felt rushed and incomplete. Fergus was barely in the picture, so I actually thought they had broken up until the very last pages. And Kate choosing to stay in London? That made no sense at all, especially since she kept saying she felt at home in Scotland.
To make matters worse, the book was poorly written and had several errors - like the dog being called ‘Vince’ at one point, and other instances of incorrect wording.
All in all, this was such a disappointment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2024
This book was not for me. The characters and storyline all blended together until it was impossible to understand what was going on. Hard pass.
April 3, 2024
If there is one book that will show you that it's never too late to make your life everything you want it to be, then it must be "The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything".
I liked Kate immediately - it was a woman who has finally took matters in her own hands. I liked getting to know her, to see what has triggered the dramatic exit at the beginning of the story. However, I also liked Vince, he was somehow funny in his own bubbly world, just your typical man taking everything for granted - it is annoying, oh, of course it is, and I was absolutely on Kate's side, but it was also somehow... I don't know... familiar... Sadly. But Vince grew up, of course he did, and I even felt sorry for him - because, you know, I was not so sure about the whole Fergus thing. I missed chemistry there, to be honest, and in the end I didn't buy into this relationship. Nevertheless, I think I felt for the characters so much because they were relatable, mature, they really did see and live through something and their experiences rang a bell and sounded genuine.
It was a long story, sometimes it dragged a bit, but nevertheless I really liked the dual perspective, it was great to hear from both main characters. It was well written, even though sometimes it felt repetitive, but it was filled with quirky, well captured characters, some funny moments and relatable situations and quandaries. There are also some poignant situations that make this book complete - it was a lovely, light - hearted, uplifting story about finding yourself again, about being brave and daring that I truly enjoyed.
I liked Kate immediately - it was a woman who has finally took matters in her own hands. I liked getting to know her, to see what has triggered the dramatic exit at the beginning of the story. However, I also liked Vince, he was somehow funny in his own bubbly world, just your typical man taking everything for granted - it is annoying, oh, of course it is, and I was absolutely on Kate's side, but it was also somehow... I don't know... familiar... Sadly. But Vince grew up, of course he did, and I even felt sorry for him - because, you know, I was not so sure about the whole Fergus thing. I missed chemistry there, to be honest, and in the end I didn't buy into this relationship. Nevertheless, I think I felt for the characters so much because they were relatable, mature, they really did see and live through something and their experiences rang a bell and sounded genuine.
It was a long story, sometimes it dragged a bit, but nevertheless I really liked the dual perspective, it was great to hear from both main characters. It was well written, even though sometimes it felt repetitive, but it was filled with quirky, well captured characters, some funny moments and relatable situations and quandaries. There are also some poignant situations that make this book complete - it was a lovely, light - hearted, uplifting story about finding yourself again, about being brave and daring that I truly enjoyed.
February 10, 2024
The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything by Fiona Gibson is a humorous and heartwarming tale of a wife who reaches her breaking point and makes her way into a new life by revisiting her childhood one via a serendipitous case of mistaken identity.
The character of Kate has allowed herself to be taken advantage of in the extreme by her husband Vince. While almost every wife will see some parts of their own relationship in Kate's marriage, she is unlucky enough to have all of those shortcomings others will recognize combined to make up her unfortunate situation. With all of those problems, the entire situation results in some comical situations.
Told from both Kate's and Vince's points of view, each of them grows throughout the book as they deal with their separation. It is a heart-warming tale of marriage, separation, romance, friendship, and family that keeps the reader chuckling right up to the end. The added point of view of her husband gives the story an extra layer, adding to the relatability of the tale.
The cover art is cute and funny, and will no doubt draw eyes to the book on the shelf.
I was pleased to receive an ARC of #TheWomanWhoRanAwayfromEverything from #NetGalley.
The character of Kate has allowed herself to be taken advantage of in the extreme by her husband Vince. While almost every wife will see some parts of their own relationship in Kate's marriage, she is unlucky enough to have all of those shortcomings others will recognize combined to make up her unfortunate situation. With all of those problems, the entire situation results in some comical situations.
Told from both Kate's and Vince's points of view, each of them grows throughout the book as they deal with their separation. It is a heart-warming tale of marriage, separation, romance, friendship, and family that keeps the reader chuckling right up to the end. The added point of view of her husband gives the story an extra layer, adding to the relatability of the tale.
The cover art is cute and funny, and will no doubt draw eyes to the book on the shelf.
I was pleased to receive an ARC of #TheWomanWhoRanAwayfromEverything from #NetGalley.
January 17, 2025
3.5 stars. That was a surprisingly enjoyable read. A much happier and more satisfying ending than I was expecting.
How does someone in the 21st century not know how to use google to answer questions when their ancilliary brain is no longer around?!? Seriously? What a clown. Can you tell I wasn't at all impressed with Vince?
BTW, as a prolific reader, I stand by my assertion that British women (book characters, I can't speak to IRL) are doormats, but at least this one's worm turned and she didn't stick around to be downtrodden forever. Yay! And kudos to the author! I think I will be tracking down more of her books.
How does someone in the 21st century not know how to use google to answer questions when their ancilliary brain is no longer around?!? Seriously? What a clown. Can you tell I wasn't at all impressed with Vince?
BTW, as a prolific reader, I stand by my assertion that British women (book characters, I can't speak to IRL) are doormats, but at least this one's worm turned and she didn't stick around to be downtrodden forever. Yay! And kudos to the author! I think I will be tracking down more of her books.
December 27, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this novel about a middle-aged woman who got fed up with being taken for granted, and decided on the spur of the moment to run away from home . . . but it turned out that she was running towards finding herself again. I was immediately engrossed with Kate's story and felt emotionally connected to her.
The author did an excellent job of portraying the real difficulties of a marriage, and I also loved how she was able to really get inside Vince's mind. Many of his thoughts and impressions made me laugh out loud and even gave me a little insight into how my husband might see things sometimes (although he's nowhere near as self-absorbed as Vince was :)
Thanks to the author and publisher for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The author did an excellent job of portraying the real difficulties of a marriage, and I also loved how she was able to really get inside Vince's mind. Many of his thoughts and impressions made me laugh out loud and even gave me a little insight into how my husband might see things sometimes (although he's nowhere near as self-absorbed as Vince was :)
Thanks to the author and publisher for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 4, 2024
I've always found Fiona Gibson's books light enjoyable reads and this one was no exception.
Main character Kate reaches the end of her tether when her husband Vince throws an imprompto party for the neighbours and expects her to cater for his guests as soon as she gets home from work, after a long shift at a hotel. Its the last straw for Kate and in a moment of madness she climbs out the bathroom window of their bungalow to escape the party and ends up walking to the station and jumps on a train heading for Glasgow.
I really liked the characters in this book. I felt a little sorry for husband Vince as he meant well, but was set in his ways and a bit thoughtless. Kate was brave not to settle for this, though, to put herself first and go in search of her own dreams.
Main character Kate reaches the end of her tether when her husband Vince throws an imprompto party for the neighbours and expects her to cater for his guests as soon as she gets home from work, after a long shift at a hotel. Its the last straw for Kate and in a moment of madness she climbs out the bathroom window of their bungalow to escape the party and ends up walking to the station and jumps on a train heading for Glasgow.
I really liked the characters in this book. I felt a little sorry for husband Vince as he meant well, but was set in his ways and a bit thoughtless. Kate was brave not to settle for this, though, to put herself first and go in search of her own dreams.
August 11, 2024
Delightfully Unexpected
I picked up The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything expecting to let it languish on my TBR…Spoiler alert, it didn’t! This book pulled me from the jump, as it is the proverbial train wreck - not the writing, but dear Kate’s life.
I adored Kate and wanted to go to battle for her. A lout of a husband, cliquish, judgmental neighbors and living a life that wasn’t really hers. When enough becomes way more than enough, she makes her escape. What happens next is serendipitous and a bit of magic. This isn’t Kate’s first escape and this one takes her back to a place of enchantment in Scotland.
This is an absolutely wonderful book and I devoured within hours - I wanted to see Kate planted somewhere that she could grow and bloom. It all was pure joy!!
I picked up The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything expecting to let it languish on my TBR…Spoiler alert, it didn’t! This book pulled me from the jump, as it is the proverbial train wreck - not the writing, but dear Kate’s life.
I adored Kate and wanted to go to battle for her. A lout of a husband, cliquish, judgmental neighbors and living a life that wasn’t really hers. When enough becomes way more than enough, she makes her escape. What happens next is serendipitous and a bit of magic. This isn’t Kate’s first escape and this one takes her back to a place of enchantment in Scotland.
This is an absolutely wonderful book and I devoured within hours - I wanted to see Kate planted somewhere that she could grow and bloom. It all was pure joy!!
October 4, 2024
A nice easy read that made me smile.
Kate is sick of being taken for granted by her husband Vince. It’s bad enough that she allowed herself to be dragged away from the London life she loved, but now she’s constantly compelled to keep up with the (very smug) Joneses in this small home counties town. She hates it here. What happened to the fun-loving woman she used to be? At almost 50 Kate feels lost, overlooked and like nothing is ever going to change. That is, until she comes home to an unexpected party – one that she has to cater.
And that’s it. The final straw. Breaking point.
Scrambling out the bathroom window, Kate leaves. She has no plan, but a chance encounter at Euston station sees her following her own heart for once – to beautiful Scotland where a crumbling mansion and a handsome bookseller could be just what she’s needs . . .
As Kate discovers, sometimes you have to feel utterly lost to find out who you truly are.
Kate is sick of being taken for granted by her husband Vince. It’s bad enough that she allowed herself to be dragged away from the London life she loved, but now she’s constantly compelled to keep up with the (very smug) Joneses in this small home counties town. She hates it here. What happened to the fun-loving woman she used to be? At almost 50 Kate feels lost, overlooked and like nothing is ever going to change. That is, until she comes home to an unexpected party – one that she has to cater.
And that’s it. The final straw. Breaking point.
Scrambling out the bathroom window, Kate leaves. She has no plan, but a chance encounter at Euston station sees her following her own heart for once – to beautiful Scotland where a crumbling mansion and a handsome bookseller could be just what she’s needs . . .
As Kate discovers, sometimes you have to feel utterly lost to find out who you truly are.
February 23, 2025
As far as light-hearted rom-coms go, this book was a delight! Tired of being taken for granted by her husband Vince, Kate snaps and leaves home on a whim. A chance encounter takes her back to her roots in Scotland’s countryside as she begins on a journey of self-discovery. The novel alternates between Vince’s and Kate’s perspectives, without villainizing one or the other. Although hilarious at points, the novel is very realistic in its depiction of the challenges of everyday life, communication in relationships, and investing in oneself. A super sweet, easy read.
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