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The Heartbreak Club
The first rule of heartbreak club is - get your heart broken. That's all really.
Caroline's heart broke when her husband took his own life.
Josh's heart broke when his wife was killed in an accident.
And somehow, talking to a group of strangers once a week doesn't seem to be helping either of them.
Until Sylvia arrives.
When she lost her own partner two years ago, she fell apart and had to put herself back together. Most of all she wished for the help of someone who'd been through it already. And now she's here to pass her handbook on to those who need it most.
The problem is, following Sylvia's rules means looking to the future. And Caroline and Josh each need some answers from their past before they can even think about that...
Praise for Eva Woods and her novels:
'Uplifting' Independent
'Life-affirming' Adele Parks
'Smart and wise' Tasmina Perry
'Touching and thought-provoking' Holly Miller, author of THE SIGHT OF YOU
Caroline's heart broke when her husband took his own life.
Josh's heart broke when his wife was killed in an accident.
And somehow, talking to a group of strangers once a week doesn't seem to be helping either of them.
Until Sylvia arrives.
When she lost her own partner two years ago, she fell apart and had to put herself back together. Most of all she wished for the help of someone who'd been through it already. And now she's here to pass her handbook on to those who need it most.
The problem is, following Sylvia's rules means looking to the future. And Caroline and Josh each need some answers from their past before they can even think about that...
Praise for Eva Woods and her novels:
'Uplifting' Independent
'Life-affirming' Adele Parks
'Smart and wise' Tasmina Perry
'Touching and thought-provoking' Holly Miller, author of THE SIGHT OF YOU
- GenresCollections
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2021
19 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
Eva Woods
20 books371 followersEva Woods lives in London, where she writes and teaches creative writing. She likes wine, pop music, and holidays, and thinks online dating is like the worst board game ever invented.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 27, 2021
Two lonely souls, a widow and widower, meet at a grief support group run by volunteer Sinead. Caroline and Josh are both suffering bereavements at a young age. Anto took his own life in the bathroom and Niamh was in an unexpected part of town when she stepped off a curb without looking and was killed by a car.
Caroline and Josh become friends and 80 year old Sylvia completes the trio, having lost her partner too. She has written her own self-help guide which she is determined Caroline and Josh will use.
This book obviously has sad connotations; the yawning forever of the time after Fate takes a terrible hand in snatching away a loved one, and that gap is filled with anger, sorrow, loneliness and depression. How can life ever be good again? And yet it is a heartwarming read, full of promise that life won't be the same, but it can be good in different ways.
Sometimes the glaring truth of what someone means to us is staring at us, waving neon signs, and yet we still don't see. Will Caroline and Josh become more than friends or will they be parted by countries? One left teaching in Belfast, the other returning to London to write for a magazine?
The characters are endearing, the role Sylvia plays pivotal to moving on and yet her story is enveloped in its own particular sadness. There are other group members too who make the setting realistic, Matt, Dad of 3, Cassie cast out by her family because she is gay, and Ruma who doesn't speak.
Together they gently, carefully take one day at a time, sharing, caring and finding a way through the deaths of people who they loved so much.
There is even mystery; no-one knows why Niamh was where she was, and Caroline faces a courtroom battle over a tick in a box she is adamant was a mistake. In this way the novel is given added dimensions which ensure it isn't a throwaway will they/won't they romance read, but instead, a sensitive portrayal of grief and how dead people can still have made mistakes whilst alive. They are not glorified and sainted but real people who were loved and are now gone.
Step into the Heartbreak Club and find out how reaching out to others, changing your routines, spending time with children and writing about your feelings can help broken lives to heal.
Caroline and Josh become friends and 80 year old Sylvia completes the trio, having lost her partner too. She has written her own self-help guide which she is determined Caroline and Josh will use.
This book obviously has sad connotations; the yawning forever of the time after Fate takes a terrible hand in snatching away a loved one, and that gap is filled with anger, sorrow, loneliness and depression. How can life ever be good again? And yet it is a heartwarming read, full of promise that life won't be the same, but it can be good in different ways.
Sometimes the glaring truth of what someone means to us is staring at us, waving neon signs, and yet we still don't see. Will Caroline and Josh become more than friends or will they be parted by countries? One left teaching in Belfast, the other returning to London to write for a magazine?
The characters are endearing, the role Sylvia plays pivotal to moving on and yet her story is enveloped in its own particular sadness. There are other group members too who make the setting realistic, Matt, Dad of 3, Cassie cast out by her family because she is gay, and Ruma who doesn't speak.
Together they gently, carefully take one day at a time, sharing, caring and finding a way through the deaths of people who they loved so much.
There is even mystery; no-one knows why Niamh was where she was, and Caroline faces a courtroom battle over a tick in a box she is adamant was a mistake. In this way the novel is given added dimensions which ensure it isn't a throwaway will they/won't they romance read, but instead, a sensitive portrayal of grief and how dead people can still have made mistakes whilst alive. They are not glorified and sainted but real people who were loved and are now gone.
Step into the Heartbreak Club and find out how reaching out to others, changing your routines, spending time with children and writing about your feelings can help broken lives to heal.
April 13, 2021
Caroline is reeling from the sudden and unexpected death of her husband Anto while Josh is struggling to carry on with life after the death of his wife Niamh in a tragic accident. They’ve both been attending the local grief support group every week and can’t ever see a time when they’ll be able to move on their lives. Both their respective spouses were carrying secrets before their deaths and this is another pressure for Caro and Josh on top on the overwhelming tidal wave of grief and what ifs......
We also get to meet a great cast of supporting characters including the wonderful Sylvie and formidable but caring Maggie.
Eva Woods once again captures human emotions so perfectly and in such a heartfelt and poignant way. The book touches on some tough subjects throughout but shows the importance of reaching out to those that truly care.
Well written and a lovely, if sometimes heartbreaking read.
We also get to meet a great cast of supporting characters including the wonderful Sylvie and formidable but caring Maggie.
Eva Woods once again captures human emotions so perfectly and in such a heartfelt and poignant way. The book touches on some tough subjects throughout but shows the importance of reaching out to those that truly care.
Well written and a lovely, if sometimes heartbreaking read.
February 4, 2024
The book has given me perspectives on life after losing a partner. I never knew how it must have felt, even when my grandfather died, I always wondered how my grandmother cope but, after reading this book, it made me think more about how she lived rather than how she coped. Eva Woods has done a great job in writing this book.
March 23, 2025
Josh and Caroline go through the stages of grief, losing their loved ones .
Join a support group helping each other through it.
Join a support group helping each other through it.
April 15, 2021
Caroline's heart broke when her husband took his own life.
Josh's heart broke when his wife was killed in an accident.
And somehow, talking to a group of strangers once a week doesn't seem to be helping either of them.
Until Sylvia arrives.
When she lost her own partner two years ago, she fell apart and had to put herself back together. Most of all she wished for the help of someone who'd been through it already. And now she's here to pass her handbook on to those who need it most.
The problem is, following Sylvia's rules means looking to the future. And Caroline and Josh each need some answers from their past before they can even think about that...
Thanks to Netgalley and Spher for an early review copy of this book in return for an honest review. This was the first Eva Woods book I have read and it won't be the last. I loved it and read it in one night. It is a wonderfully written book about a subject that shouldn't make for an entertaining book but it does. You learn the stories of Caroline and Josh and how they pick their lives up after losing their spouses and also their back stories and how they cope with life going forward.
A very special book, I look forward to it's release so I can tell others about it.
Josh's heart broke when his wife was killed in an accident.
And somehow, talking to a group of strangers once a week doesn't seem to be helping either of them.
Until Sylvia arrives.
When she lost her own partner two years ago, she fell apart and had to put herself back together. Most of all she wished for the help of someone who'd been through it already. And now she's here to pass her handbook on to those who need it most.
The problem is, following Sylvia's rules means looking to the future. And Caroline and Josh each need some answers from their past before they can even think about that...
Thanks to Netgalley and Spher for an early review copy of this book in return for an honest review. This was the first Eva Woods book I have read and it won't be the last. I loved it and read it in one night. It is a wonderfully written book about a subject that shouldn't make for an entertaining book but it does. You learn the stories of Caroline and Josh and how they pick their lives up after losing their spouses and also their back stories and how they cope with life going forward.
A very special book, I look forward to it's release so I can tell others about it.
April 27, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group for approving me to read and review The Heartbreak Club by Eva Woods. I have given this book three out of five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
We’re introduced to two main characters called: Josh and Caroline. They meet under difficult circumstances at a weekly meeting to help people through grieving as both of their partners have both died. From the synopsis we know that Caroline’s husband has taken his own life and Josh’s wife was killed in an accident. As we follow a dual narrative, we start to learn a lot about Caroline and Josh, how they’re dealing with losing their partners and also, the back stories to their partners’ death as it has left some unanswered questions and secrets behind. I found this concept to be quite interesting as I hadn’t read a story similar to this one before and really enjoyed Eva Woods writing.
I thought Caroline and Josh were two strong, great characters who I liked learning about and could definitely feel a connection between the two even though they’re both in a vulnerable state I thought they were there for one another and at times I could sense the tension surrounding them. I felt very sorry for both of them throughout this novel due to the secrets that are revealed later on in the story, but I wouldn’t want to spoil anything so I’m keeping this book review to a minimum.
One character that made the book for me was Sylvia, she was a wonderful supporting character who definitely holds a special place in my heart after reading this book.
I must commend Eva Woods on her incredible writing throughout this story, she really knows how to captivate an audience with her words.
I’d say the main reason why I didn’t give more stars for this book is down to my reading slump, although I really enjoyed Eva Woods’ writing I’m currently in that state of finding it hard to really fall out of reality and switch off completely. So, I would love to re-visit this story and these characters in the future.
We’re introduced to two main characters called: Josh and Caroline. They meet under difficult circumstances at a weekly meeting to help people through grieving as both of their partners have both died. From the synopsis we know that Caroline’s husband has taken his own life and Josh’s wife was killed in an accident. As we follow a dual narrative, we start to learn a lot about Caroline and Josh, how they’re dealing with losing their partners and also, the back stories to their partners’ death as it has left some unanswered questions and secrets behind. I found this concept to be quite interesting as I hadn’t read a story similar to this one before and really enjoyed Eva Woods writing.
I thought Caroline and Josh were two strong, great characters who I liked learning about and could definitely feel a connection between the two even though they’re both in a vulnerable state I thought they were there for one another and at times I could sense the tension surrounding them. I felt very sorry for both of them throughout this novel due to the secrets that are revealed later on in the story, but I wouldn’t want to spoil anything so I’m keeping this book review to a minimum.
One character that made the book for me was Sylvia, she was a wonderful supporting character who definitely holds a special place in my heart after reading this book.
I must commend Eva Woods on her incredible writing throughout this story, she really knows how to captivate an audience with her words.
I’d say the main reason why I didn’t give more stars for this book is down to my reading slump, although I really enjoyed Eva Woods’ writing I’m currently in that state of finding it hard to really fall out of reality and switch off completely. So, I would love to re-visit this story and these characters in the future.
January 28, 2023
I was pleasantly surprised by this book! Read it from cover to cover on a 3 hour train ride which says it all really.
Honestly, I thought it would be one of those books that imagines people in their thirties as completely old and past it. It was nice to see people at that age still being treated like people and not like OAPs, given most books of this genre focus on the twenty something female.
I found both characters really likeable. Often I find books that frequently switch between two narrative perspectives a bit annoying but this felt like it was organic AND necessary for the story. You got a better understanding of the grief of both Caroline and Josh from their narration, instead of perspective switching purely to retell the kiss/big romantic moment from both viewpoints.
Characters were likeable and even when there were time jumps it didn't completely disorient me from the story.
I loved the way the book was split up into sections based upon Sylvia's recommendations for living with grief as a widow.
Made me laugh, made me cry, made me stop and think. Absolutely would recommend.
Honestly, I thought it would be one of those books that imagines people in their thirties as completely old and past it. It was nice to see people at that age still being treated like people and not like OAPs, given most books of this genre focus on the twenty something female.
I found both characters really likeable. Often I find books that frequently switch between two narrative perspectives a bit annoying but this felt like it was organic AND necessary for the story. You got a better understanding of the grief of both Caroline and Josh from their narration, instead of perspective switching purely to retell the kiss/big romantic moment from both viewpoints.
Characters were likeable and even when there were time jumps it didn't completely disorient me from the story.
I loved the way the book was split up into sections based upon Sylvia's recommendations for living with grief as a widow.
Made me laugh, made me cry, made me stop and think. Absolutely would recommend.
July 8, 2022
Having lost my mom 9 months ago, this book hit home more than expected: how to cope through grief, and the guilt of having to move on with life though that's the last thing you want to do, surrounded by others who go ahead with their lives as it nothing happened. Powerful.
Caroline and Josh have a weekly appointment in common: a support group for people below 40 who lost the ones they love. Caroline lost her husband to suicide; Josh lost his wife in a tragic accident. They find themselves converging towards each other, spending often time after the session in the pub next door, talking and being each other support without even realizing it. Everything is about to change when Sylvia, a 80+ year old lady, walks into one of the sessions one day. She is definitely over 40, but something about her clicks in both of them, to the point of accepting her invitation over to her house. There, she gifts them something: a book she has written about how to cope and live again with grief. Initially suspicious, they embark on a journey through this book, following step by step the advice found in it: write down how you feel, spend time with loved ones, go outside....and so on. And while they are both still trying to make sense of what happened to their loves ones, still on a quest for answers, they also embark on a journey of healing, that eventually lands them in each other arms.
Caroline and Josh have a weekly appointment in common: a support group for people below 40 who lost the ones they love. Caroline lost her husband to suicide; Josh lost his wife in a tragic accident. They find themselves converging towards each other, spending often time after the session in the pub next door, talking and being each other support without even realizing it. Everything is about to change when Sylvia, a 80+ year old lady, walks into one of the sessions one day. She is definitely over 40, but something about her clicks in both of them, to the point of accepting her invitation over to her house. There, she gifts them something: a book she has written about how to cope and live again with grief. Initially suspicious, they embark on a journey through this book, following step by step the advice found in it: write down how you feel, spend time with loved ones, go outside....and so on. And while they are both still trying to make sense of what happened to their loves ones, still on a quest for answers, they also embark on a journey of healing, that eventually lands them in each other arms.
March 13, 2022
This author is brilliant at writing about life changing issues in a sensitive and realistic way and bringing these topics out into the open. The heartbreak club focuses on the characters all coming to terms with their individual grief with the help of each other and exploring the difficult situations and changes their loved ones have left behind.
With every page explore how these characters progress on their healing journey with the help of each other in particularly Sylvia who has written the Manuel for surviving grief and without knowing it has helped those around her immensely while at the same time healing herself.
At times this was a very emotional read but cleverly written with endearing characters particularly that of Sylvia and the book kept us guessing as to where the lives of Josh and Caroline where heading in the future.
With every page explore how these characters progress on their healing journey with the help of each other in particularly Sylvia who has written the Manuel for surviving grief and without knowing it has helped those around her immensely while at the same time healing herself.
At times this was a very emotional read but cleverly written with endearing characters particularly that of Sylvia and the book kept us guessing as to where the lives of Josh and Caroline where heading in the future.
February 5, 2023
This book portrays real and relatable human emotions beautifully, written in a way to not only sympathise with the characters but also with real people who have been through this.
The book really shows the importance of key events such as grieving, moving forwards with life and helping yourself to heal.
My only negative…I didn’t want it to end! I have questions Eva woods!! Do they get a happy ever after?! Does Caroline get what she’s always wanted?!
The book really shows the importance of key events such as grieving, moving forwards with life and helping yourself to heal.
My only negative…I didn’t want it to end! I have questions Eva woods!! Do they get a happy ever after?! Does Caroline get what she’s always wanted?!
February 8, 2024
For the most part I did enjoy this book, the dialogue between the characters seemed very genuine and I felt the process of dealing with grief was written really well. I just didn't find myself fully invested in or connecting with the characters and their stories, each plot twist that was revealed for Caroline and Josh I saw coming from a mile away and I felt that the book just stayed on the same level throughout🤍
January 20, 2023
Just a really lovely read. Lovely storyline and characters are very likeable. Took me nearly a week to read which is why I didn’t give it a 5 star, I didn’t pick it up for 2 days 🙈 I would recommend to others but some of the content could be triggering so be mindful if you fancy picking up this book 😊
August 28, 2023
This was an amazing book about dealing with grief in a way that made you sympathetic and empathetic with the characters. What I loved most about this book was that there was no judgement, or right and wrong way of dealing with grief and that to me was a perfect example of everyday life. Would highly recommend this book, for those who want something different but something very real!!
June 24, 2023
An emotional read of the ups and downs of losing a partner at a young age. Some very heavy topics are dealt with, including loss of a partner, suicide, homophobia and IVF. A good read, but quite a hard hitter in places.
March 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a thought provoking read. Whilst sad at times due to grieving the loss of a partner, it also shows that ‘things get better’ and there will always be people out there to help & support you if you let them.
Such a thought provoking read. Whilst sad at times due to grieving the loss of a partner, it also shows that ‘things get better’ and there will always be people out there to help & support you if you let them.
July 16, 2021
Cute wee read! Eva doesn't disappoint! 😊
January 9, 2022
First 5 star read of 2022 🥰
December 30, 2022
It was so funny and so heart breaking at the same time. It's a quick read, I couldn't put it down. I was bit disappointed in the end, but I still loved it.
December 30, 2022
awh the ending was so sweet. definitely took a while to warm up to the book as it was so focused on the partners deaths.
February 14, 2023
It was a bit slow to start with, but the way it comes together was perfect
February 19, 2023
Took a while to get my attention, but as soon as it did, it was pretty damm good!
July 14, 2023
Bit of a slow starter but when I got into it, the storyline is good & a perfect easy read
October 31, 2023
This was an emotional but lovely read. Lots of humour mixed with grief, loss, and mystery. Loved the ending and how all the characters, no matter how minor, all played their part.
March 6, 2024
so heartfelt but can not be consumed profusely or quickly
March 26, 2024
Perfect chapter lengths
December 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️&✨
March 23, 2025
3.5 - spoke of grief quite well but too much unnecessary repeating of each characters uncertainty about each other - felt like they were both thinking the exact same thing
April 1, 2025
Sweet book about navigating the loss of a partner and journeying through grief. Easy to read, but a little too sad if you’re looking for a mood boosting love story!
October 16, 2022
Didn’t finish this one. I found it difficult to connect with the story and the characters, unfortunately this one just wasn’t my cup of tea.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews