The Life-Changing Magic of Quitting Alcohol

by Sharon Hartley

The Life-Changing Magic of Quitting Alcohol, written by a BBC radio presenter, is a practical and holistic book for anyone looking to cut down and give up alcohol. Funny, full of warmth and inspiration, it’s the go-to guide to saying no to gin o’clock. 

272 pages, Paperback

Published February 11, 2025

Reviews

[Kate Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read quite a few books about quitting or limiting my amount of alcohol. I have read the books, but have yet to take the plunge.
Firstly, this book is super easy to read thanks to Sharon Hartley's writing style. It's so conversational, with added bits of humour, it really does feel like you're having a chat with a friend.
I liked how Hartley includes parts of her own life, as well as snippets from other case studies too. I would have liked there to have been more information about the damage of alcohol and more science based facts - but this book is more of a help with the social side. How to manage when you go out with your pals, what to say, how to make it easier.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I adored Hartley's writing (will definitely pick up whatever she writes next) - but only time will tell if I actually reduce my alcohol intake...

[Joe Stamber · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a 61 year old male, I've been drinking since I was 15, and have had periods of regular drinking, heavy drinking, and rare drinking (lack of money). I now drink regularly, not heavily, but a good way above the recommended limit. I was thinking about cutting down or abstaining when I saw this book on a Kindle Daily Deal for 99p, and decided it might be the spur I needed. Generally, it's got a lot of good advice, although not all relevant to me (I'm retired). I've given it 7/10, rounded down, partly because it's not all relevant to me as the author doesn't seem to have considered that some people might be retired (there's a lot of us!), and partly because a lot is made (ad nauseum) of how wonderful and full of new opportunities your life will be in sobriety. I agree that might be the case for some people, but many their life will improve after quitting drinking, but the measure of that improvement will vary depending on their personality and current life. Some people want to start running marathons (done all that before my knees said "no more!") and singing "The Hills Are Alive", but some of us have more modest aspirations.

[Hailey Hconroybooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this one by Sharon Hartley from Over the Influence (one of my favorite podcasts.). When she was talking about moderation mental gymnastics, I felt like I could have written that section myself! *Same lady, same.* Hartley is also laugh out loud funny! (I got looks for snort laughing while listening to this while grocery shopping.) She has worked in radio broadcast for years, and has a phenomenal voice for this narration. This book is free of judgement and a great quick read or listen for anyone sober, sober curious, or just trying a dry month break like Dry January.

[Nikki Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is not going to win any literary awards. With phrases like balls of steel and arse, it’s not beautifully written. It does hit its point hard and gives good reasons for an alcohol free life. I hope this book resonates with anyone that needs it! All the personal stories and ways to combat the difficulties of making a big change were great.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for an ARC in exchange for my review!

[David RC · Rating 5 out of 5]

A down to earth book for normal people who just dont want to drink. As Sharon writes 'you should give it your full arse' (not your half arse)

[Henrik Keeler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very charming and quite useful, but not groundbreaking.

[Edd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Down to earth, honest and inspiring. This is a great read for anyone either thinking about or in the process of changing their relationship with Alcohol.

[Helen Gibbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book to support you through your first 100 days alcohol free. Helps you see the positives of AF life and sets you up for success in Sharon's down to earth style. I loved it!