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Right Way Up
When plans are upended, who can turn them the right way up?
A heartwarming, wise and tender novel about life's twists and turns and figuring out what really matters, from Australian bestselling author Fiona McCallum.
Kind-hearted and practical psychologist Colin Palmer has spent decades helping his clients. Now he's under pressure to retire and hit the road in a new caravan with his wife Joyce.
However, when Joyce abruptly heads off on her own adventure, Colin's perfectly ordered world is flipped upside down. He's left grappling to make sense of their marriage, who he is and what he wants.
Enter no-nonsense, blunt, firecracker ex-nurse Shirley Royal! Recently widowed, Shirley is also searching for meaning after losing the bedrock of her existence. She's ripe for a new project and Colin might just be it!
But just when Colin's future appears bright and assured, thanks to Shirley's friendship, Joyce tumbles back into his world. How will he now navigate a path between his old life and new?
A heartwarming, wise and tender novel about life's twists and turns and figuring out what really matters, from Australian bestselling author Fiona McCallum.
Kind-hearted and practical psychologist Colin Palmer has spent decades helping his clients. Now he's under pressure to retire and hit the road in a new caravan with his wife Joyce.
However, when Joyce abruptly heads off on her own adventure, Colin's perfectly ordered world is flipped upside down. He's left grappling to make sense of their marriage, who he is and what he wants.
Enter no-nonsense, blunt, firecracker ex-nurse Shirley Royal! Recently widowed, Shirley is also searching for meaning after losing the bedrock of her existence. She's ripe for a new project and Colin might just be it!
But just when Colin's future appears bright and assured, thanks to Shirley's friendship, Joyce tumbles back into his world. How will he now navigate a path between his old life and new?
- GenresAudiobookContemporary
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2025
41 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Fiona McCallum
22 books271 followers** Please be aware Fiona is not active on this site. She can be best found on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fionamccallu... **
Fiona McCallum spent her childhood years on the family cereal and wool farm outside the small town of Cleve on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula.
Fiona now lives in Adelaide and works full-time as a novelist. She writes "heart-warming journey of self-discovery stories" - often with a rural setting, sometimes with a romantic thread and sometimes without. Her tales tie together her love of animals and fascination with the journey people go on to find what really makes their heart sing and then follow their true passions to find happiness, even if it means taking risks and facing seemingly impossible obstacles. It's a storyline very close to Fiona's heart because it reflects her own life.
Fiona now has nine Australian bestsellers to her name: 'Paycheque', 'Nowhere Else', 'Wattle Creek', 'Saving Grace' (Book one of The Button Jar series), 'Time Will Tell' (Book two of The Button Jar series) and 'Meant To Be' (Book three (and at this stage final) in The Button Jar series), 'Leap of Faith', 'Standing Strong' (a sequel to Wattle Creek), and 'Finding Hannah'. Her tenth book, 'Making Peace' has just been released (late March 2018).
Fiona is proof dreams can come true...
Please note, Fiona isn't active here. She only signed up to try and get books by authors of the same name removed from her listing. (Note, this Fiona McCallum is not the clairvoyant and author of "Dear Fiona". Nor is she the Scottish academic who writes about Christianity in the Middle East.) She's too busy writing to be on multiple social media platforms and only does Facebook. She can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/fionamccallu...
Fiona McCallum spent her childhood years on the family cereal and wool farm outside the small town of Cleve on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula.
Fiona now lives in Adelaide and works full-time as a novelist. She writes "heart-warming journey of self-discovery stories" - often with a rural setting, sometimes with a romantic thread and sometimes without. Her tales tie together her love of animals and fascination with the journey people go on to find what really makes their heart sing and then follow their true passions to find happiness, even if it means taking risks and facing seemingly impossible obstacles. It's a storyline very close to Fiona's heart because it reflects her own life.
Fiona now has nine Australian bestsellers to her name: 'Paycheque', 'Nowhere Else', 'Wattle Creek', 'Saving Grace' (Book one of The Button Jar series), 'Time Will Tell' (Book two of The Button Jar series) and 'Meant To Be' (Book three (and at this stage final) in The Button Jar series), 'Leap of Faith', 'Standing Strong' (a sequel to Wattle Creek), and 'Finding Hannah'. Her tenth book, 'Making Peace' has just been released (late March 2018).
Fiona is proof dreams can come true...
Please note, Fiona isn't active here. She only signed up to try and get books by authors of the same name removed from her listing. (Note, this Fiona McCallum is not the clairvoyant and author of "Dear Fiona". Nor is she the Scottish academic who writes about Christianity in the Middle East.) She's too busy writing to be on multiple social media platforms and only does Facebook. She can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/fionamccallu...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 27, 2025
⭐️ 5 ⭐️
The Right Way Up
Plot:
Colin’s wife leaves on a solo trip, his quiet life unravels. A fiery widow Shirley brings new purpose, just as his past returns to complicate everything.
My Thoughts:
I truly loved Colin. His kindness shone through, even in moments when it wasn’t deserved, and that made him such a compelling character. The writing style was warm and inviting, making it an easy, cozy read that I genuinely enjoyed from start to finish. While I wished the ending had a bit more impactful, the journey itself was heartfelt and well worth it.
The Right Way Up
Plot:
Colin’s wife leaves on a solo trip, his quiet life unravels. A fiery widow Shirley brings new purpose, just as his past returns to complicate everything.
My Thoughts:
I truly loved Colin. His kindness shone through, even in moments when it wasn’t deserved, and that made him such a compelling character. The writing style was warm and inviting, making it an easy, cozy read that I genuinely enjoyed from start to finish. While I wished the ending had a bit more impactful, the journey itself was heartfelt and well worth it.
February 22, 2025
Colin Palmer is a psychologist in Adelaide, he’s been married to Joyce for almost half a century and he’s close to retiring. Joyce is keen for them to become grey nomads, she’s been researching caravans and what type of vehicle they would need to tow one.
Colin is shocked when Joyce up and leaves, she has a reason and he’s used their routine, everything is organised and done by his wife and without her he’s a little bewildered and lost. Colin soldiers on, going to work and seeing his clients and he thinks she will only be for a week? Then Joyce throws him the biggest curve ball and one he didn’t see it coming and his life is turned upside down.
Colin meets ex-nurse and straight to the point Shirley Royal, she’s recently been widowed, and she’s willing to give him much need domestic advice, but not do it for him and they enjoy each other’s company and become friends. Colin has to accept things have changed, he comes to terms with Joyce’s choices and makes plans for his future and feels optimistic. When she returns, he’s worried his new found independence will end and yet he can’t turn his back on Joyce and what about his friendship with Shirley?
I received a copy of Right Way Up from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Fiona McCallum is known for writing stories about relationships, human nature and self-discovery, with interesting characters and in unique situations and that will make you think.
Her latest novel is no exception, anyone whose married knows it changes over time and so do people, Colin and Joyce had their routine and it was too regimented, I felt like they were housemates and not husband and wife.
The narrative explores aspects such as were Colin and Joyce happy or just meandering along, what do you do when plans change and overcoming obstacles and you can’t simply shut the door on your old life and start a new one. How soon is it to move on and should you give someone a second chance and with what kind of boundaries should be established and it won't be the same.
The story is just as detailed and intricate as the cover and it holds clues to what happens and I didn’t predict the ending and it will make you think outside of the box and from different perspectives, I highly recommend and five stars from me.
Colin is shocked when Joyce up and leaves, she has a reason and he’s used their routine, everything is organised and done by his wife and without her he’s a little bewildered and lost. Colin soldiers on, going to work and seeing his clients and he thinks she will only be for a week? Then Joyce throws him the biggest curve ball and one he didn’t see it coming and his life is turned upside down.
Colin meets ex-nurse and straight to the point Shirley Royal, she’s recently been widowed, and she’s willing to give him much need domestic advice, but not do it for him and they enjoy each other’s company and become friends. Colin has to accept things have changed, he comes to terms with Joyce’s choices and makes plans for his future and feels optimistic. When she returns, he’s worried his new found independence will end and yet he can’t turn his back on Joyce and what about his friendship with Shirley?
I received a copy of Right Way Up from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Fiona McCallum is known for writing stories about relationships, human nature and self-discovery, with interesting characters and in unique situations and that will make you think.
Her latest novel is no exception, anyone whose married knows it changes over time and so do people, Colin and Joyce had their routine and it was too regimented, I felt like they were housemates and not husband and wife.
The narrative explores aspects such as were Colin and Joyce happy or just meandering along, what do you do when plans change and overcoming obstacles and you can’t simply shut the door on your old life and start a new one. How soon is it to move on and should you give someone a second chance and with what kind of boundaries should be established and it won't be the same.
The story is just as detailed and intricate as the cover and it holds clues to what happens and I didn’t predict the ending and it will make you think outside of the box and from different perspectives, I highly recommend and five stars from me.
April 10, 2025
EXCERPT: He couldn't imagine a better life partner than sensible, well-adjusted Joyce - a thought he was regularly reminded of during his work days, which often involved counselling married couples, the children of working parents, or people trying to put their lives back together after having their hearts trampled and crushed.
One type that intrigued him the most was those couples who seemed to enjoy sparring - those who appeared ill-suited and even seemed to dislike each other, yet came to him week after week, ostensibly for the purpose of improving their relationship. Sometimes he was left wondering if they simply enjoyed his company. Plenty of times he'd gently suggested they might spend their money and time better elsewhere, but the hints never took and they'd always book another appointment before leaving together amid snipes and curses.
Of course he couldn't tell them they'd be better off calling it quits and getting on with their lives separately and stop making each other so unhappy. They had to come to that decision on their own. Meanwhile, he had a business to run, and fortunately or unfortunately, depending upon how you looked at it, these clients contributed to his bottom line.
ABOUT 'RIGHT WAY UP': When plans are upended, who can turn them the right way up?
Kind-hearted and practical psychologist Colin Palmer has spent decades helping his clients. Now he's under pressure to retire and hit the road in a new caravan with his wife Joyce.
However, when Joyce abruptly heads off on her own adventure, Colin's perfectly ordered world is flipped upside down. He's left grappling to make sense of their marriage, who he is and what he wants.
Enter no-nonsense, blunt, firecracker ex-nurse Shirley Royal! Recently widowed, Shirley is also searching for meaning after losing the bedrock of her existence. She's ripe for a new project and Colin might just be it!
But just when Colin's future appears bright and assured, thanks to Shirley's friendship, Joyce tumbles back into his world. How will he now navigate a path between his old life and new?
MY THOUGHTS: Right Way Up is my first book by Australian author, Fiona McCallum, who is well known for her novels featuring relationships and journeys of self-discovery.
I didn't particularly like either Colin or Joyce at the beginning of the read. Colin appeared to be an old stick-in-the-mud, and Joyce lost no opportunity to snipe at him. Joyce wants to travel Australia with a caravan in tow, while the whole idea fills Colin with fear and distaste. Colin seems fearful of upsetting Joyce and reluctantly falls in with her plans rather than coming straight out with a simple, 'No, I don't want to do that.' The man is a psychologist, for heaven's sake. I wanted him to practice what he preaches about negotiation and compromise and stop being such a doormat. Little did I know that he was going to have to pull up his big girl's pants and start standing on his own two feet!
Fiona McCallum gave me a lot to think about in Right Way Up, a story about 'late in life' separation, a situation I believe is becoming ever more common. What happens when a couple in their seventies splits up? Who takes what, including friends? How do you split the assets, the house, the money? The plight of the increasing numbers of homeless 50+ women is mentioned. Let's face it, unless the family home is something magnificent in a prime real estate area, it's going to be damned difficult to purchase two reasonable homes for the price of one, and banks aren't known for giving mortgages to old age pensioners. These are all things that are worrying Colin as Joyce moves in with her new partner, and things that we all have to think about. What if . . .
I had no idea of how Colin and Joyce's situation was going to be resolved, or if it could be resolved at all, but Fiona McCallum comes up with a very workable solution that surprised me.
I enjoyed the insights into some of Colin's patient cases. Some are enlightening, some entertaining and some quite sad. The introduction of Shirley into the story was a breath of fresh air, although I did wonder once or twice if he was any match for her.
Oh, and there is a delightful rescue cat called Mrs Tabby!
I'll definitely be reading more from this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
#RightWayUp #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Fiona McCallum was raised on a cereal and wool farm near Cleve on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula and remained in the area until her mid-twenties. Having lived in Melbourne and Sydney, she currently resides in Adelaide. Fiona is the author of more than a dozen bestselling novels that draw on her rich and contrasting life experiences, love of animals and fascination with human nature.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of Right Way Up by Fiona McCallum for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
One type that intrigued him the most was those couples who seemed to enjoy sparring - those who appeared ill-suited and even seemed to dislike each other, yet came to him week after week, ostensibly for the purpose of improving their relationship. Sometimes he was left wondering if they simply enjoyed his company. Plenty of times he'd gently suggested they might spend their money and time better elsewhere, but the hints never took and they'd always book another appointment before leaving together amid snipes and curses.
Of course he couldn't tell them they'd be better off calling it quits and getting on with their lives separately and stop making each other so unhappy. They had to come to that decision on their own. Meanwhile, he had a business to run, and fortunately or unfortunately, depending upon how you looked at it, these clients contributed to his bottom line.
ABOUT 'RIGHT WAY UP': When plans are upended, who can turn them the right way up?
Kind-hearted and practical psychologist Colin Palmer has spent decades helping his clients. Now he's under pressure to retire and hit the road in a new caravan with his wife Joyce.
However, when Joyce abruptly heads off on her own adventure, Colin's perfectly ordered world is flipped upside down. He's left grappling to make sense of their marriage, who he is and what he wants.
Enter no-nonsense, blunt, firecracker ex-nurse Shirley Royal! Recently widowed, Shirley is also searching for meaning after losing the bedrock of her existence. She's ripe for a new project and Colin might just be it!
But just when Colin's future appears bright and assured, thanks to Shirley's friendship, Joyce tumbles back into his world. How will he now navigate a path between his old life and new?
MY THOUGHTS: Right Way Up is my first book by Australian author, Fiona McCallum, who is well known for her novels featuring relationships and journeys of self-discovery.
I didn't particularly like either Colin or Joyce at the beginning of the read. Colin appeared to be an old stick-in-the-mud, and Joyce lost no opportunity to snipe at him. Joyce wants to travel Australia with a caravan in tow, while the whole idea fills Colin with fear and distaste. Colin seems fearful of upsetting Joyce and reluctantly falls in with her plans rather than coming straight out with a simple, 'No, I don't want to do that.' The man is a psychologist, for heaven's sake. I wanted him to practice what he preaches about negotiation and compromise and stop being such a doormat. Little did I know that he was going to have to pull up his big girl's pants and start standing on his own two feet!
Fiona McCallum gave me a lot to think about in Right Way Up, a story about 'late in life' separation, a situation I believe is becoming ever more common. What happens when a couple in their seventies splits up? Who takes what, including friends? How do you split the assets, the house, the money? The plight of the increasing numbers of homeless 50+ women is mentioned. Let's face it, unless the family home is something magnificent in a prime real estate area, it's going to be damned difficult to purchase two reasonable homes for the price of one, and banks aren't known for giving mortgages to old age pensioners. These are all things that are worrying Colin as Joyce moves in with her new partner, and things that we all have to think about. What if . . .
I had no idea of how Colin and Joyce's situation was going to be resolved, or if it could be resolved at all, but Fiona McCallum comes up with a very workable solution that surprised me.
I enjoyed the insights into some of Colin's patient cases. Some are enlightening, some entertaining and some quite sad. The introduction of Shirley into the story was a breath of fresh air, although I did wonder once or twice if he was any match for her.
Oh, and there is a delightful rescue cat called Mrs Tabby!
I'll definitely be reading more from this author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
#RightWayUp #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Fiona McCallum was raised on a cereal and wool farm near Cleve on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula and remained in the area until her mid-twenties. Having lived in Melbourne and Sydney, she currently resides in Adelaide. Fiona is the author of more than a dozen bestselling novels that draw on her rich and contrasting life experiences, love of animals and fascination with human nature.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of Right Way Up by Fiona McCallum for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
July 10, 2025
Colin Palmer is a hard working psychologist who has enjoyed his job for many years. His wife Joyce is eager for him to retire so they can buy a caravan and take off on their adventures, but Colin has reservations about becoming nomads and is stalling with his retirement.
Colin for me was a likeable and easy-going character whereas Joyce was the bossy one and to keep the peace Colin went along with what his wife wanted most of the time. At times I wish Colin had’ve stood up to his wife and told her how he really felt, but I guess maybe it was easier to agree than disagree.
One day when Colin gets home from work he finds Joyce has a few bags packed and tells Colin she is going on adventure of her own for a few weeks. Having such set routines Colin’s life is turned upside down, but he manages to muddle through each day. When Joyce returns the story takes a turn which I must admit I didn’t see coming and once again Colin’s life is turned upside down.
Right Way Up by Aussie author Fiona McCallum is an entertaining novel about finding yourself, love, marriage and grief. I think as couples age together they assume they both want the same things in life, but as we see in this book that’s not always the case. This was a truly enjoyable read and one I have no hesitation in recommending.
Colin for me was a likeable and easy-going character whereas Joyce was the bossy one and to keep the peace Colin went along with what his wife wanted most of the time. At times I wish Colin had’ve stood up to his wife and told her how he really felt, but I guess maybe it was easier to agree than disagree.
One day when Colin gets home from work he finds Joyce has a few bags packed and tells Colin she is going on adventure of her own for a few weeks. Having such set routines Colin’s life is turned upside down, but he manages to muddle through each day. When Joyce returns the story takes a turn which I must admit I didn’t see coming and once again Colin’s life is turned upside down.
Right Way Up by Aussie author Fiona McCallum is an entertaining novel about finding yourself, love, marriage and grief. I think as couples age together they assume they both want the same things in life, but as we see in this book that’s not always the case. This was a truly enjoyable read and one I have no hesitation in recommending.
March 31, 2025
What a glorious book. This is the first of Fiona’s books I have read and I absolutely adored it. The story focuses on Colin, a psychologist who is close to retirement and lives with his recently retired wife Joyce, until Joyce decides to go and leave and poor Colin is in a quandary as he has no idea how to cook, or essentially run a household. However, just at the right time he meets recently widowed Shirley and they build a great friendship based on brutal honesty with each other. The storyline shows how relationships change over time, for both the good and bad and the characters were extremely relatable. I now need to go and find more of Fiona’s books to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
March 31, 2025
Big thanks to Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
It makes me happy to know at this time of the year, a Fiona McCallum book will enter my life.
Fiona writes wonderfully authentic stories that are moving, poignant, reflective and inspiring with real life issues and characters who you could know in real life.
Colin Palmer is a psychologist who is nearing retirement.
He is good natured, generous and soft hearted and his wife Joyce wants him to retire now so they can travel the country in a caravan.
But unexpectedly things change and Joyce walks out to make a new life.
Now Colin must navigate work and his home life alone.
Not for long, in strolls Shirley, a self proclaimed bossy retired nurse and widow who helps Colin manoeuvre everyday existence.
A friendship blossoms.
Soon Joyce reappears with news of her own.
Colin now has some decisions he has to make….
I loved this book.
A tale that’s penned with heart and soul, tenderness, honesty, and combining issues of grief, love, self reflection, change and new beginnings just to name a few.
Fiona’s beautiful novels always bring enjoyment, are memorable and the best reading experiences.
Another gem from the winning author.
It makes me happy to know at this time of the year, a Fiona McCallum book will enter my life.
Fiona writes wonderfully authentic stories that are moving, poignant, reflective and inspiring with real life issues and characters who you could know in real life.
Colin Palmer is a psychologist who is nearing retirement.
He is good natured, generous and soft hearted and his wife Joyce wants him to retire now so they can travel the country in a caravan.
But unexpectedly things change and Joyce walks out to make a new life.
Now Colin must navigate work and his home life alone.
Not for long, in strolls Shirley, a self proclaimed bossy retired nurse and widow who helps Colin manoeuvre everyday existence.
A friendship blossoms.
Soon Joyce reappears with news of her own.
Colin now has some decisions he has to make….
I loved this book.
A tale that’s penned with heart and soul, tenderness, honesty, and combining issues of grief, love, self reflection, change and new beginnings just to name a few.
Fiona’s beautiful novels always bring enjoyment, are memorable and the best reading experiences.
Another gem from the winning author.
March 14, 2025
What an incredibly heart-warming, honest story! Right Way Up by Fiona McCallum pulled on my heart fiercely and because it harnessed me at an emotional level, I fell quickly into the plot and became heavily invested in the warm, caring and likeable Colin. The author hits the nail on the head of so many older relationship issues and I felt I was nodding constantly. Wonderful bits of wisdom and truths leap off the page, particularly from Colin who must put his own advice into action more times than not!
Colin is a practicing psychologist in South Australia who spends his working hours trying to help individuals and couples sort their emotional challenges. He is quite sympathetic and understanding and it appears his clients think so, too, as he seems to offer them solutions that work, while helping them recognise behavioural problems. He imparts advice that they must take care of themselves first.
Things are moving along as usual in his own home, when Joyce, his wife, discusses retirement. But he is not quite ready for it, yet goes along with her desire to get a travelling van with the intentions to travel. But when Joyce heads off on an adventure of her own, she is away longer than Colin expects her to be. When she returns, she drops a bomb on him that will drastically alter their lives. Then he is hit with another trial. This time relating to his work. When faced with two drastic and unexpected curve balls in his personal and work life, initially it sets him off balance. But in the end, the disruptions force him into new directions. These changes, ironically, in his life are for the better. He becomes more independent and learns new activities like cooking, tending to accounts and attending social activities. But there is more. On this journey of growth, he gets help from a female friend named Shirley: a retired nurse who has recently lost her husband. She is a real bright spark in Colin’s life with her friendship, understanding and advice. She’s the magic ingredient of support he needs after a double barrel blow. She helps him to move positively forward. And move forward he does! He truly begins to live a more relaxed fulfilled life. And when another curve ball hits him, he handles it with grace and compassion. The growth in this man is uplifting and you just love him even more.
This story is about changes in relationships, particularly between husband and wife. Also, grief after loss is exceptionally demonstrated. Then there is the importance of friendships, social activities and trying new directions. Listening to Colin counsel (hearing his thoughts about psychological truths) was quite fascinating as it provided an inside view of a psychologist’s job.
Although Colin sometimes accepts blame a little too much (in my opinion) in his marital relationship, he certainly recognises his flaws and tries to make changes in his life. All through the drama, he remains caring and sensitive. recognising that nobody is perfect and no one person can be everything. For we all can use a little improvement here and there!
I adored this novel and so glad I read it! Right Way Up held my attention from start to finish and the conclusion was a pleasant surprise. Characters, dialogue, plot and setting are all well presented. Plus the pace is steady and purrs along nicely. The cat character is a charming addition, too! Highly recommend this positive, delightful relationship-focused gem! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for a review copy.
Colin is a practicing psychologist in South Australia who spends his working hours trying to help individuals and couples sort their emotional challenges. He is quite sympathetic and understanding and it appears his clients think so, too, as he seems to offer them solutions that work, while helping them recognise behavioural problems. He imparts advice that they must take care of themselves first.
Things are moving along as usual in his own home, when Joyce, his wife, discusses retirement. But he is not quite ready for it, yet goes along with her desire to get a travelling van with the intentions to travel. But when Joyce heads off on an adventure of her own, she is away longer than Colin expects her to be. When she returns, she drops a bomb on him that will drastically alter their lives. Then he is hit with another trial. This time relating to his work. When faced with two drastic and unexpected curve balls in his personal and work life, initially it sets him off balance. But in the end, the disruptions force him into new directions. These changes, ironically, in his life are for the better. He becomes more independent and learns new activities like cooking, tending to accounts and attending social activities. But there is more. On this journey of growth, he gets help from a female friend named Shirley: a retired nurse who has recently lost her husband. She is a real bright spark in Colin’s life with her friendship, understanding and advice. She’s the magic ingredient of support he needs after a double barrel blow. She helps him to move positively forward. And move forward he does! He truly begins to live a more relaxed fulfilled life. And when another curve ball hits him, he handles it with grace and compassion. The growth in this man is uplifting and you just love him even more.
This story is about changes in relationships, particularly between husband and wife. Also, grief after loss is exceptionally demonstrated. Then there is the importance of friendships, social activities and trying new directions. Listening to Colin counsel (hearing his thoughts about psychological truths) was quite fascinating as it provided an inside view of a psychologist’s job.
Although Colin sometimes accepts blame a little too much (in my opinion) in his marital relationship, he certainly recognises his flaws and tries to make changes in his life. All through the drama, he remains caring and sensitive. recognising that nobody is perfect and no one person can be everything. For we all can use a little improvement here and there!
I adored this novel and so glad I read it! Right Way Up held my attention from start to finish and the conclusion was a pleasant surprise. Characters, dialogue, plot and setting are all well presented. Plus the pace is steady and purrs along nicely. The cat character is a charming addition, too! Highly recommend this positive, delightful relationship-focused gem! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for a review copy.
April 2, 2025
This was such a lovely and wholesome read. We follow Colin, a psychologist who is nearing retirement. Colin has a nice, well established life with his wife Joyce. Joyce who has just retired herself is getting itchy feet and wants to buy a caravan and go travelling. However, Joyce has a change of heart and abruptly leaves Colin. He must now navigate life on his own for the first time in over fifty years.
This is such a wonderful story about relationships and how they evolve as we age.
My favourite dynamic was between Colin and his new friend Shirley. I absolutely adore Shirley and the impact she has on Colin. I kept expecting their relationship to become romantic, however I was wrong for that!. The friendship/companionship that they had was beautiful and fulfilling in itself. Not every relationship between a man and a woman needs to be romantic for it to be meaningful, the author did such a great job highlighting that fact.
I loved everything about this book. The plot and characters were written to perfection.
This is the first book I've read by this author, I'm very keen now to go check out some of their other books.
This is such a wonderful story about relationships and how they evolve as we age.
My favourite dynamic was between Colin and his new friend Shirley. I absolutely adore Shirley and the impact she has on Colin. I kept expecting their relationship to become romantic, however I was wrong for that!. The friendship/companionship that they had was beautiful and fulfilling in itself. Not every relationship between a man and a woman needs to be romantic for it to be meaningful, the author did such a great job highlighting that fact.
I loved everything about this book. The plot and characters were written to perfection.
This is the first book I've read by this author, I'm very keen now to go check out some of their other books.
March 22, 2025
What a lovely book really enjoyed following Colin as he navigated his new way of life. First book I have read of Fiona McCallum and I will be looking to read more of her books. I was lucky to receive this as an advance copy.
August 18, 2025
Audio.
An unremarkable, dull, character, who in his twilight years has his life turned upside down. You feel sorry for him and admire his calmness, yet his calmness is perhaps also his weakness. He's so accepting that there's barely any drama. So don't expect drama.
Frustrating for me was that he never asked the basic questions he should have been asking. But instead I heard in great detail of all the furniture and the floor coverings and other superfluous info.
This story reminded me of the movie About Schmidt. Neither are classics but they both left you thinking about your own life. Time moves on around us whether we are prepared for it or not, and whether we like it or not. If you don't pay close enough attention to what's happening you are more likely to be blindsided and risk life just passing you by.
I'd like a sequel with the wifes POV to fill the void in the storyline and soothe my frustration.
A couple of good quotes from the book:
"It's when you're not looking that you find the perfect thing."
"It wasn't really her fault that she hurt him.
Each person owes it to themselves to live their best life."
An unremarkable, dull, character, who in his twilight years has his life turned upside down. You feel sorry for him and admire his calmness, yet his calmness is perhaps also his weakness. He's so accepting that there's barely any drama. So don't expect drama.
Frustrating for me was that he never asked the basic questions he should have been asking. But instead I heard in great detail of all the furniture and the floor coverings and other superfluous info.
This story reminded me of the movie About Schmidt. Neither are classics but they both left you thinking about your own life. Time moves on around us whether we are prepared for it or not, and whether we like it or not. If you don't pay close enough attention to what's happening you are more likely to be blindsided and risk life just passing you by.
I'd like a sequel with the wifes POV to fill the void in the storyline and soothe my frustration.
A couple of good quotes from the book:
"It's when you're not looking that you find the perfect thing."
"It wasn't really her fault that she hurt him.
Each person owes it to themselves to live their best life."
May 15, 2025
Fiona McCallum writes contemporary stories that shine a light on human nature and are therefore both relatable and thought provoking. Her latest, Right Way Up, looks at marriage and retirement - what happens when you have grown apart after all these years and no longer want the same things in these sunset years? Fiona brings a wise and heartwarming approach to one such relationship. It’s a journey of self discovery and how our loves and lives will evolve over time if we let them. Take the time to get to know Colin as he has to reinvent himself and become independent with the help of a new found friend. A thoughtful, relatable read about change, growth, and second chances in later life.
June 29, 2025
Fabulous listen! Always love Fiona's books! I always look out for her books when a new one is released. Great exploration of relationships later in life.
June 12, 2025
How is such an incompetent, passive, socially inept older man, a psychologist? Perhaps it's also not too late to change!
March 29, 2025
What a wonderful story, Right Way Up looks at the twists and turns of a long time married couple finding their way as they enter retirement. The main character is Colin; and he is oblivious to the fact that people change, and the fact that technology is advancing faster than Colin can comprehend, so he ignores it for the most part. On the other hand his wife of fifty years, Joyce, has embraced the Internet since she has retired and has got a whole new lease on life as she embraces causes she can get involved in now she has stopped work.
When Colin and Joyce first discussed retirement, the plan was they would buy a caravan and become Grey Nomads, hit the road and explore Australia. But in reality Colin is in a rut, he wants life to stay the same, and he really doesn’t want to live in a caravan, and he doesn’t really want to stop work either. He is a psychologist who spends his working day trying to help individuals and couples sort their emotional challenges. It appears that he seems to offer solutions that work, while helping them recognise behavioural problems. He also imparts advice that they must take care of themselves first, some advice that he doesn’t take on board himself.
His comfortable work/life balance all changes when Joyce suddenly ups and leaves their comfortable life to go and wash oil off stricken seabirds for a week on the other side of Australia. Colin struggles, as everything around the home has been run and organised by Joyce. He tells himself it will be only for a week, but then just when he expects her home, Joyce throws him an even bigger curveball. She is leaving him.
Somehow Colin has to change, and Right Way Up follows his journey. One of his clients is a recently widowed woman, Shirley, and she helps him to develop domestically without doing it for him. One of his other clients helps him with an Internet issue that is destroying Colin’s reputation which he is not even aware of.
Shirley and Colin become firm friends and Colin finally learns to live without Joyce. When he finally has his work/life balance under his control, Joyce returns. Colin is happy with his life, and he doesn’t want to give up his independence, or his friends.
Right Way Up looks at life and how people change, in this case Colin and Joyce change and don’t even know they have. They each go through a journey of self-discovery, although Colin is forced into his journey. I loved the characters and could totally relate to each of them for different reasons. Despite my summary, the story is intricate and I had no idea how Fiona McCallum was going to resolve the issues. Hint - she does it well! A great read, and I recommend it.
Thank you to HQ Fiction for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
When Colin and Joyce first discussed retirement, the plan was they would buy a caravan and become Grey Nomads, hit the road and explore Australia. But in reality Colin is in a rut, he wants life to stay the same, and he really doesn’t want to live in a caravan, and he doesn’t really want to stop work either. He is a psychologist who spends his working day trying to help individuals and couples sort their emotional challenges. It appears that he seems to offer solutions that work, while helping them recognise behavioural problems. He also imparts advice that they must take care of themselves first, some advice that he doesn’t take on board himself.
His comfortable work/life balance all changes when Joyce suddenly ups and leaves their comfortable life to go and wash oil off stricken seabirds for a week on the other side of Australia. Colin struggles, as everything around the home has been run and organised by Joyce. He tells himself it will be only for a week, but then just when he expects her home, Joyce throws him an even bigger curveball. She is leaving him.
Somehow Colin has to change, and Right Way Up follows his journey. One of his clients is a recently widowed woman, Shirley, and she helps him to develop domestically without doing it for him. One of his other clients helps him with an Internet issue that is destroying Colin’s reputation which he is not even aware of.
Shirley and Colin become firm friends and Colin finally learns to live without Joyce. When he finally has his work/life balance under his control, Joyce returns. Colin is happy with his life, and he doesn’t want to give up his independence, or his friends.
Right Way Up looks at life and how people change, in this case Colin and Joyce change and don’t even know they have. They each go through a journey of self-discovery, although Colin is forced into his journey. I loved the characters and could totally relate to each of them for different reasons. Despite my summary, the story is intricate and I had no idea how Fiona McCallum was going to resolve the issues. Hint - she does it well! A great read, and I recommend it.
Thank you to HQ Fiction for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
March 27, 2025
What a wonderful heartwarming story.
I really enjoyed Colin’s character, a tender and nice soul, that I wish I know him too.
A feel good kind of read book this one!
Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher Harlequin Australia, HQ for the ARC.
I really enjoyed Colin’s character, a tender and nice soul, that I wish I know him too.
A feel good kind of read book this one!
Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher Harlequin Australia, HQ for the ARC.
May 25, 2025
Slow, dull and non-engaging. With a disappointing ending as well.
May 27, 2025
I just couldn’t get into this at all
July 4, 2025
Although I have enjoyed McCallum’s work in the past, I found this particular novel a little laboured. It isn’t my favorite of her work.
The plot is interesting and fairly perceptive about relationships. Many readers will find themselves nodding their heads, both at the characters who seek change and those who don’t. There are no great surprises here – both individual events and the overall emotions are easy to see coming – but in a way that just gives a bit more room for thinking about the underlying messages.
This is an accurate depiction of all kinds of grief, including grieving a dead person and grieving the loss of a relationship. I found this aspect sensitive and well handled. However, I felt the novel was straining a bit, and although I appreciated these elements they didn’t move me very much.
McCallum achieves a positive tone for the novel overall despite some dark themes. Hope over rides everything else. This is a fairly undemanding read, and it’s designed to leave the reader feeling good. It didn’t quite achieve that for me, but it probably will for many readers.
While this novel didn’t hit the mark for me, it’s well written and will appeal to readers who want something that’s not too demanding but which might give them some impetus to consider their own relationships and future.
You may be interested in my review of another of Fiona McCallum’s novels:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
The plot is interesting and fairly perceptive about relationships. Many readers will find themselves nodding their heads, both at the characters who seek change and those who don’t. There are no great surprises here – both individual events and the overall emotions are easy to see coming – but in a way that just gives a bit more room for thinking about the underlying messages.
This is an accurate depiction of all kinds of grief, including grieving a dead person and grieving the loss of a relationship. I found this aspect sensitive and well handled. However, I felt the novel was straining a bit, and although I appreciated these elements they didn’t move me very much.
McCallum achieves a positive tone for the novel overall despite some dark themes. Hope over rides everything else. This is a fairly undemanding read, and it’s designed to leave the reader feeling good. It didn’t quite achieve that for me, but it probably will for many readers.
While this novel didn’t hit the mark for me, it’s well written and will appeal to readers who want something that’s not too demanding but which might give them some impetus to consider their own relationships and future.
You may be interested in my review of another of Fiona McCallum’s novels:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
June 17, 2025
I actually enjoyed reading a book set from a male POV rather than a female. Colin and Joyce have been married for many years and Joyce is keen for them to become grey nomads and travel around in a caravan. Colin has always done what Joyce wants but is nervous at this prospect. She wants him to retire from his job as a psychologist but he feels not ready yet. When he suddenly finds himself single again he has to fend for himself and learn to cook, clean and run a business and home. He meets Shirley along the way and she is a great influence on him, but they are only friends. I appreciated the age group referred to in the characters in this book, it’s refreshing to read about mature people and the challenges they face in life. This would suit readers of Australian stories and women’s fiction.
June 30, 2025
Psychologist Colin Palmer is putting off retirement and his wife Joyce wants them to buy a large caravan and go grey-nomading. Then she ups and leaves for another woman. It was all a bit tedious up to here, but then it goes down hill. Colin's clinical approach is basic to say the least, and he would be struck off as a psychologist for his inappropriate professional boundaries. Colin's new friend Shirley is a likeable character, but by this stage the whole thing is unbelievable. Shirley's niece magically redecorates Colin's new home office within a week including having new curtains made up. Joyce returns "home" after her new partner dies. Joyce and Shirley become friends and the three of them live happily ever after playing board games.
A nice yarn if you can be bothered, but I wouldn't recommend it.
A nice yarn if you can be bothered, but I wouldn't recommend it.
March 22, 2025
Right Way Up is a heartwarming, honest and sincere story about Colin a psychologist who has been married to Joyce for decades but when Joyce throws him a curve ball he finds friendship in the form of a bright and forthright ex nurse called Shirley. The book truly reminds me of what it is like getting older even though I am not quite yet 40 as I get older I have realised what really matters. This book highlights that as it certainly isn't the material things that matter but companionship and love are a huge part of a happy life! The story had me absorbed from the first page until the beautiful conclusion! I loved the characters and instantly felt a connection with Shirley but surprisingly by the end it was Colin who became my favourite.
July 25, 2025
This is the second book of Fiona McCallum’s that I have read and it really didn’t disappoint!
Fiona is well known for her heartwarming stories exploring humanity, relationships and both the everyday events and life altering moments we experience.
Fiona has a knack for drawing you in with her relatable stories of life, love, loss, family, friendship and growing older. And ‘Right Way Up’ is no exception.
Reading about the challenges and perspectives of each character really does having you thinking how you would respond if faced with similar situations, particularly later in life.
I especially enjoyed Colin and Shirley as characters, and the beautiful friendship that unexpectedly developed as a result of their individual losses.
Fiona is well known for her heartwarming stories exploring humanity, relationships and both the everyday events and life altering moments we experience.
Fiona has a knack for drawing you in with her relatable stories of life, love, loss, family, friendship and growing older. And ‘Right Way Up’ is no exception.
Reading about the challenges and perspectives of each character really does having you thinking how you would respond if faced with similar situations, particularly later in life.
I especially enjoyed Colin and Shirley as characters, and the beautiful friendship that unexpectedly developed as a result of their individual losses.
April 23, 2025
Lovely cover. Set in suburban Adelaide (my hometown), this heartwarming and captivating novel features Colin Palmer, a seventy something psychologist and his wife, Joyce, who is keen to go caravanning around Australia. Colin, however, has his reservations. Theirs is a settled domestic life but Joyce yearns for more. Then Colin is served a curveball by Joyce and his whole world is turned upside down. He learns to cook and cope with singledom. Then one of his clients, Shirley, takes him under her wing and gradually Colin begins to accept and come to terms with different events happening in his life and work. Captivating and entertaining.
April 28, 2025
It’s refreshing to read a story about seventy somethings, a demographic that is rarely looked into. Colin and Joyce have a steady marriage, but there are cracks. When Joyce leaves him for Carmel , he has to do a lot of learning, and this is the joy of this book. Colin does heal, and moves in new directions and makes new friends. I loved the Shirley character, who is influential in Colin's journey. An interesting ending too.
April 30, 2025
Great story. Colin was such a great guy! And Shirley! Maybe a teeny bit tedious in places - eg the furniture outing - but overall an enjoyable read. I liked Colin's insightful views, one would hope that readers might get some help if they find themselves in an unhealthy relationship.
I also loved the friendship theme throughout the book.
I also loved the friendship theme throughout the book.
March 19, 2025
I enjoyed this book although I found it a bit slow to get into it. It’s easy to picture people of Colin, Joyce & Shirley’s era going through similar situations.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2025
Novels like this are so needed!
A heartwarming story about Colin and Joyce, a couple navigating the challenges of retirement after 50 years of marriage. Colin, a stuck-in-his-ways psychologist, is blindsided when Joyce—who’s embraced her new life, technology, and activism—suddenly leaves him to rescue oil-stricken seabirds and then announces she’s not coming back.
Forced to fend for himself, Colin embarks on a reluctant journey of self-discovery, aided by wise and supportive clients, such as Shirley, a recent widow. As he gradually finds independence and builds a new life, Joyce returns—but Colin is no longer the man he was.
A thoughtful, relatable read about change, growth, and second chances in later life. Fiona McCallum wraps it all up beautifully.
Highly recommended.
A heartwarming story about Colin and Joyce, a couple navigating the challenges of retirement after 50 years of marriage. Colin, a stuck-in-his-ways psychologist, is blindsided when Joyce—who’s embraced her new life, technology, and activism—suddenly leaves him to rescue oil-stricken seabirds and then announces she’s not coming back.
Forced to fend for himself, Colin embarks on a reluctant journey of self-discovery, aided by wise and supportive clients, such as Shirley, a recent widow. As he gradually finds independence and builds a new life, Joyce returns—but Colin is no longer the man he was.
A thoughtful, relatable read about change, growth, and second chances in later life. Fiona McCallum wraps it all up beautifully.
Highly recommended.
May 17, 2025
Mother’s Day present. Good to read something that wasn’t a murder. A psychologist is happily married for years and unexpectedly his wife leaves him for another women. Interesting patients and he needs to work out how to do all the things his wife has done for him. Ending a bit disappointing.
May 25, 2025
This story is about a couple coping with their marriage which has lots of unexpected twists and turns and both being under pressure to retire. It is a moving story about loss, hope and the strength to get back on your feet with situations that arise in your life.
July 18, 2025
An easy read book that was both sad and uplifting at the same time.
Colin was both clueless and really kind.
Oh how I loved Shirley. Everyone should have a Shirley in their life.
As for Joyce, she’s just a spoilt best!!
Colin was both clueless and really kind.
Oh how I loved Shirley. Everyone should have a Shirley in their life.
As for Joyce, she’s just a spoilt best!!
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