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The Art of Loving You
The brand-new emotional and heart-breaking novel from Amelia Henley
'Wistfully uplifting, with a sprinkling of the extraordinary – Libby and Jack’s story is a testament to the power of love and the comfort of hope. I loved it!' Holly Hepburn, author of Coming Home to Brightwater Bay
* * * *
They were so in love . . .
And then life changed forever . . .
Will they find happiness again?
Libby and Jack are the happiest they’ve ever been. Thanks to their dear friend, eighty-year-old Sid, they’ve just bought their first house together, and it's the beginning of the life they've always dreamed of.
But the universe has other plans for Libby and Jack and a devastating twist of fate shatters their world.
All of a sudden life is looking very different, and unlikely though it seems, might Sid be the one person who can help Libby and Jack move forward when what they loved the most has been lost?
The Art of Loving You is a beautiful love story for our times. Romantic and uplifting, it will break your heart and then put it back together again. Perfect for fans of Rebecca Serle,Josie Silver and Sophie Cousens.
* * * *
Praise for Amelia Henley:
‘A love story with a definite difference . . . intensely emotional’
Best
‘Beautifully written and plotted. Get ready for the final chapter – you have been warned’
Candis
‘Intriguing, unusual and intensely romantic’
Sunday Mirror
'Wistfully uplifting, with a sprinkling of the extraordinary – Libby and Jack’s story is a testament to the power of love and the comfort of hope. I loved it!' Holly Hepburn, author of Coming Home to Brightwater Bay
* * * *
They were so in love . . .
And then life changed forever . . .
Will they find happiness again?
Libby and Jack are the happiest they’ve ever been. Thanks to their dear friend, eighty-year-old Sid, they’ve just bought their first house together, and it's the beginning of the life they've always dreamed of.
But the universe has other plans for Libby and Jack and a devastating twist of fate shatters their world.
All of a sudden life is looking very different, and unlikely though it seems, might Sid be the one person who can help Libby and Jack move forward when what they loved the most has been lost?
The Art of Loving You is a beautiful love story for our times. Romantic and uplifting, it will break your heart and then put it back together again. Perfect for fans of Rebecca Serle,Josie Silver and Sophie Cousens.
* * * *
Praise for Amelia Henley:
‘A love story with a definite difference . . . intensely emotional’
Best
‘Beautifully written and plotted. Get ready for the final chapter – you have been warned’
Candis
‘Intriguing, unusual and intensely romantic’
Sunday Mirror
368 pages, Paperback
Published September 14, 2021
23 people are currently reading
638 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
August 17, 2021
This was a gentle but poignant read that was heartbreaking and heart warming all at once!
As someone who has been struggling with grief after losing one of my sisters last year, this was difficult to read at times, but Henley did a great job of evoking the feelings of raw grief and pain.
The story was good, with likeable and funny characters, but several events were a little predictable, and I'm not sure it was all that memorable in this genre.
Nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read, and would recommend it to readers of this genre, or indeed new ones. The predictability of this novel may be exactly what some readers need!
As someone who has been struggling with grief after losing one of my sisters last year, this was difficult to read at times, but Henley did a great job of evoking the feelings of raw grief and pain.
The story was good, with likeable and funny characters, but several events were a little predictable, and I'm not sure it was all that memorable in this genre.
Nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read, and would recommend it to readers of this genre, or indeed new ones. The predictability of this novel may be exactly what some readers need!
July 23, 2021
Life ain't all beer and skittles
Just wow. I was at a loss for words after finishing. This was just incredible. The prologue caught my attention and I had to keep turning the pages to find out what had happened. An emotional, unforgettable and uplifting story. It broke my heart and put me back together again.
Sid is my favourite character, "Life ain't all beer and skittles" is now my new favourite saying. Everyone needs a Sid in their life. Always so positive.This story is so life affirming. It takes you on an emotional rollercoaster and you just want "to be more Jack". I just felt so connected to all the characters.
A love story of love, hopes and dreams. So thought provoking. This will stay with me for a long time.
I had to go and buy my own copy. Thank you to Netgalley and HQ
for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Just wow. I was at a loss for words after finishing. This was just incredible. The prologue caught my attention and I had to keep turning the pages to find out what had happened. An emotional, unforgettable and uplifting story. It broke my heart and put me back together again.
Sid is my favourite character, "Life ain't all beer and skittles" is now my new favourite saying. Everyone needs a Sid in their life. Always so positive.This story is so life affirming. It takes you on an emotional rollercoaster and you just want "to be more Jack". I just felt so connected to all the characters.
A love story of love, hopes and dreams. So thought provoking. This will stay with me for a long time.
I had to go and buy my own copy. Thank you to Netgalley and HQ
for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up!
May 6, 2021
Wow! Amelia Henley really does love to shake up your emotions!
I’m not a crier when it comes to novels and can count the fingers on one hand how many times I’ve cried at a fiction book. Well I can add twice just from this author! (I’m pretty sure you’re happy about that! 😂)
It was the theme that had me in tears and once you read this book and if you know me personally you’ll know why it meant so much to me.
The opening was, as always, fabulous. I love how the prologue always pulls you in with the frustrated wonder of what the big secret is. A hint to a big reveal but with no clue where it’s going or what it will be.
There is a familiarity about the authors books. Well formed characters and idyllic settings. She has a beautiful way with words which show your minds eye a vivid picturesque visual. Chapters that end on cliffhangers and even though it’s not a psychological thriller there are still those little twists that make you gasp.
Something I noticed about this book which I’m not sure I’ve experienced in her novels is the hints to what’s to come. Little snippets of future reveals. I loved this, it really brought the story alive for me.
From a readers point of view and a genre I rarely read, Amelia Henley’s writing is beautifully written and has everything it should and more!
I mean even the title is poetic! A magnificently executed novel with an ending your going to need tissues for!
I’m not a crier when it comes to novels and can count the fingers on one hand how many times I’ve cried at a fiction book. Well I can add twice just from this author! (I’m pretty sure you’re happy about that! 😂)
It was the theme that had me in tears and once you read this book and if you know me personally you’ll know why it meant so much to me.
The opening was, as always, fabulous. I love how the prologue always pulls you in with the frustrated wonder of what the big secret is. A hint to a big reveal but with no clue where it’s going or what it will be.
There is a familiarity about the authors books. Well formed characters and idyllic settings. She has a beautiful way with words which show your minds eye a vivid picturesque visual. Chapters that end on cliffhangers and even though it’s not a psychological thriller there are still those little twists that make you gasp.
Something I noticed about this book which I’m not sure I’ve experienced in her novels is the hints to what’s to come. Little snippets of future reveals. I loved this, it really brought the story alive for me.
From a readers point of view and a genre I rarely read, Amelia Henley’s writing is beautifully written and has everything it should and more!
I mean even the title is poetic! A magnificently executed novel with an ending your going to need tissues for!
July 22, 2021
This book wasn't at all what I was expecting. I've never read anything by this author under this or her other name but was attracted by the cover and title and I'm so glad I got to read it.
I instantly loved the main characters Libby and Jack and felt the story flowed really well.
The book took me took me by surprise a few times, which is part of the reason why I've given it 5 stars.
I'll definitely look out for this author in future and plan to read her other book.
I instantly loved the main characters Libby and Jack and felt the story flowed really well.
The book took me took me by surprise a few times, which is part of the reason why I've given it 5 stars.
I'll definitely look out for this author in future and plan to read her other book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2021
Simultaneously joyful and heartbreaking, this story conveys hope and dreams alongside loss, betrayal, grief and doubt.
‘Life ain’t all beer and skittles’ is a mantra repeated throughout the story and it is fitting for real life and definitely apt for this story. It seems like every time something positive happens, 2 negative things happen to knock Libby down. Her strength of character is admirable as she keeps picking herself up after having a few wobbles and moving on, accomplishing tasks ‘square by square’.
I liked the characters in the book, and how they are portrayed and their individuality is woven into the thread of the story.
An enjoyable but emotional read!
Thanks to #NetGalley for an advanced copy of #TheArtOfLovingYou releases 22 July 2021
‘Life ain’t all beer and skittles’ is a mantra repeated throughout the story and it is fitting for real life and definitely apt for this story. It seems like every time something positive happens, 2 negative things happen to knock Libby down. Her strength of character is admirable as she keeps picking herself up after having a few wobbles and moving on, accomplishing tasks ‘square by square’.
I liked the characters in the book, and how they are portrayed and their individuality is woven into the thread of the story.
An enjoyable but emotional read!
Thanks to #NetGalley for an advanced copy of #TheArtOfLovingYou releases 22 July 2021
July 20, 2021
The Art of Loving you by Amelia Henley is an absolutely wonderful but at times heartbreaking read. I’ve read and loved the authors previous book so was delighted to have the opportunity to read this one. It’s the story of Jack and Libby, a young couple deeply in love. They’ve just purchased their first home together and are looking forward to spending many happy years together. However life doesn’t always work out that way. This book really drew me in, the writing was wonderful and I loved the characters especially dear Sid. I won’t lie that this book had me in tears in places but there were also some laugh out loud moments. I highly recommend this book.
August 26, 2022
This book, without a doubt, is one of my favourite books I’ve read. I don’t even know where to start. I was hooked jn the first chapter. The story is so beautiful and real. I’ve never felt this intense of emotions and attachments to characters like I do with the characters and story in this book. Jack and Libby’s love story is so so beautiful, but quickly becomes a tragedy when Jack dies. What all Libby goes through, the grief and how she has to trudge through life is very real. I found my heart breaking for her and with her. But in the end she makes their story turn beautiful again and I think that is such a good message for people.
I also loved how everything came together, everything was connected and there’s talk in the book about the butterfly affect and it really is true, everything causes something, but that doesn’t mean it’s always gonna be bad in the end. Such beautiful messages in this book.
Overall the book had me ugly crying but I would definitely read this book over and over again.
I also loved how everything came together, everything was connected and there’s talk in the book about the butterfly affect and it really is true, everything causes something, but that doesn’t mean it’s always gonna be bad in the end. Such beautiful messages in this book.
Overall the book had me ugly crying but I would definitely read this book over and over again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2021
❌Trigger Warning: Death, Depression, Attempted Suicide, Grief, Loss❌
Thankyou so much for Netgalley and HQ for allowing me to read an Arc of this amazing, emotional book.
Ameila Henley has given us a book that really does touch on all your emotions. You 100% need tissues for this read .
Thankyou so much for Netgalley and HQ for allowing me to read an Arc of this amazing, emotional book.
Ameila Henley has given us a book that really does touch on all your emotions. You 100% need tissues for this read .
August 31, 2021
I’d like to thank NetGalley and HQ for approving me for an ARC of this exceptional book. This is the first book of Amelia Henley’s that I have read but it will not be my last. I have had her debut ‘The Life We Almost Had’ on my kindle shelf for a while and I plan to read it asap.
The Art of Loving You will break your heart. I was 30% in when the tears started to fall and they did not stop. Had it not been for needing some sleep I could of easily read this one through the night, I was a sponge absorbing all of Amelia’s beautiful words.
Jack and Libby are the couple that you can’t help but be happy for but when the unthinkable happens this story takes a different turn. Being a similar age to Libby I sympathised with her a lot. I can’t imagine going through what she did but I never foresaw her story having the kind of bumps it did. To say she was resilient would be an understatement and whilst her paranoia was explained I actually thought she was justified in what she suspected.
This story was so much more than Libby and Jack though, We had Sid, Alice, Faith and of course Liam. All of these characters were well developed and relatable in so many ways. Each of them had their own struggles and whilst Liam was an unexpected surprise my favourite was Sid. I can see why him and Jack got on so much, they both had an optimism about them that was infectious. By the end of the story I was firmer in my belief that if we could all be more Jack than the world would be a better place.
Words can not describe what this did to me emotionally. It was captivating, raw and portrayed the essence of grief perfectly. It shows us that life is short, precious and not to be taken for granted. An outstanding read that will stay with me for a long time.
The Art of Loving You will break your heart. I was 30% in when the tears started to fall and they did not stop. Had it not been for needing some sleep I could of easily read this one through the night, I was a sponge absorbing all of Amelia’s beautiful words.
Jack and Libby are the couple that you can’t help but be happy for but when the unthinkable happens this story takes a different turn. Being a similar age to Libby I sympathised with her a lot. I can’t imagine going through what she did but I never foresaw her story having the kind of bumps it did. To say she was resilient would be an understatement and whilst her paranoia was explained I actually thought she was justified in what she suspected.
This story was so much more than Libby and Jack though, We had Sid, Alice, Faith and of course Liam. All of these characters were well developed and relatable in so many ways. Each of them had their own struggles and whilst Liam was an unexpected surprise my favourite was Sid. I can see why him and Jack got on so much, they both had an optimism about them that was infectious. By the end of the story I was firmer in my belief that if we could all be more Jack than the world would be a better place.
Words can not describe what this did to me emotionally. It was captivating, raw and portrayed the essence of grief perfectly. It shows us that life is short, precious and not to be taken for granted. An outstanding read that will stay with me for a long time.
August 28, 2021
I don’t think I have cried my way through a full book before but that is what I did with this one. I literally cried and sobbed all the way through it and let’s not mention the amount of tissues I went through in the process!
Admittedly I am a highly emotional person anyway but this story was so powerful. Overwhelmingly so in parts. I don’t want to say to much about the actual plot as to do so would be to spoil it for others who haven’t yet read it but what the characters go through, it ripped my heart apart and shattered it into millions of tiny pieces.
The story covers many things like grief, love, forgiveness, guilt but it mainly offers hope. I especially loved Sid’s character who at eighty years young, he is so very wise. I loved finding out more about his own personal life and his relationship with Libby and Jack was so heart-warming to read. In fact there are quite a few characters who I enjoyed getting to know more as well as seeing how things evolved for them.
The Art of Loving You was a highly emotional read that I read in one sitting. These characters grabbed hold of me and wouldn’t let go. I know I will be thinking of them for along time to come. Yes I may have cried my way through this book but I loved every minute of it. It is a stark reminder that we only get one life so enjoy it and more than anything be kind in the time that you are here. A heart-breaking yet uplifting read and without a doubt one of my top reads of 2021!
Admittedly I am a highly emotional person anyway but this story was so powerful. Overwhelmingly so in parts. I don’t want to say to much about the actual plot as to do so would be to spoil it for others who haven’t yet read it but what the characters go through, it ripped my heart apart and shattered it into millions of tiny pieces.
The story covers many things like grief, love, forgiveness, guilt but it mainly offers hope. I especially loved Sid’s character who at eighty years young, he is so very wise. I loved finding out more about his own personal life and his relationship with Libby and Jack was so heart-warming to read. In fact there are quite a few characters who I enjoyed getting to know more as well as seeing how things evolved for them.
The Art of Loving You was a highly emotional read that I read in one sitting. These characters grabbed hold of me and wouldn’t let go. I know I will be thinking of them for along time to come. Yes I may have cried my way through this book but I loved every minute of it. It is a stark reminder that we only get one life so enjoy it and more than anything be kind in the time that you are here. A heart-breaking yet uplifting read and without a doubt one of my top reads of 2021!
July 8, 2021
Thank you so much @hqstories and @netgalley for approving me to read this absolutely beautiful and amazing book!!!
This is quite honestly one of the most life affirming books I’ve read in a very long time, and I am literally left feeling all the feels now.
My heart was ripped open, but piece by piece and square by square it was firmly put back together.
This story of Libby and Jack is beautiful and ethereal and I want every single person to read it.
I won’t go into detail because I want you to enjoy this book for yourself, but all I will say is that I did not expect it to turn out the way it did. The plot completely took me by surprise and I adored that. I really want to “be more Jack”
Irrevocably timeless and beautiful…..a complete must read
This is quite honestly one of the most life affirming books I’ve read in a very long time, and I am literally left feeling all the feels now.
My heart was ripped open, but piece by piece and square by square it was firmly put back together.
This story of Libby and Jack is beautiful and ethereal and I want every single person to read it.
I won’t go into detail because I want you to enjoy this book for yourself, but all I will say is that I did not expect it to turn out the way it did. The plot completely took me by surprise and I adored that. I really want to “be more Jack”
Irrevocably timeless and beautiful…..a complete must read
July 22, 2021
For emotional and sentimental hearts like mine this book is everything, and I adored it.
A brilliantly written tearjerker of a love story, I was ugly crying on more than one occasion as we learn about the true romance of Libby and Jack’s relationship. Libby and Jack are wonderful main characters- warm and compassionate with such love and kindness for eachother and those around them. I loved Sid’s attitude to life and agree with his beer and skittles analogy completely. Such a thought provoking romantic story.
A brilliantly written tearjerker of a love story, I was ugly crying on more than one occasion as we learn about the true romance of Libby and Jack’s relationship. Libby and Jack are wonderful main characters- warm and compassionate with such love and kindness for eachother and those around them. I loved Sid’s attitude to life and agree with his beer and skittles analogy completely. Such a thought provoking romantic story.
July 12, 2021
“Life ain’t all beer and skittles is it?”
In the follow up to her first love story The Life We Almost Had Amelia Henley packs an emotional punch, reducing you to a blubbering mess once again with this beautiful tearjerker of a novel. Unapologetically romantic and sentimental this is the story of Libby and Jack who are embarking on a new adventure as a couple and life couldn’t be more exciting. With the keys to a property they plan to turn into an art centre/ retreat for under privileged kids courtesy of their ‘surrogate grandfather’ Sid they have so much to look forward to together. However even the best laid plans can have a habit of going awry so when life throws a massive spanner in the works in the form of four life changing phone calls it’s going to take an awful lot of love, kindness, imagination and perseverance to reinvent the future.
Taking inspiration from a much loved film (thank you for that trip down memory lane!) this novel will have instant appeal for sentimental old, and young, fools alike. If you’re going to pick up a piece of fiction that deals with delicate and sensitive topics, embracing emotions that will be uniquely personal to every individual you want an author who will write direct from the heart, someone who can blend compassion and sorrow with love and romance, but who can also manage to make you smile and even laugh through the sadness, lifting you up beyond the clouds to find rays of warm sunshine. Amelia Henley does just that with the assistance of a cast of three dimensional characters who literally leap off the pages and burrow their way into your soul. Adding her own special stamp on the genre she slides a few miniature twists into the proceedings (a nod to her psychological thriller roots) to ensure there’s an element of surprise, however small, along the way.
So, as the storyline marches in time to the beat of certain refrains octogenarian Sid is so fond of saying, it’s the characters who bring this romantic tale alive and none more so than Sid himself. His philosophy on life is one worth listening to and I don’t think I’ll be the only person to say he’s my absolute favourite character. With his predilection for mints and tobacco and memories of his beloved wife Norma serving as inspiration for the likes of Libby I’d adopt Sid any day of the week. What a shame not everyone can be lucky enough to have a Sid or a Jack in their lives but we can all dream can’t we?? The character who provided me with the most laughs though has to be Libby’s mum who can be relied upon for an anecdote to suit every conceivable situation courtesy of her bakery customers. Libby and her sister Alice may find them irritating but they definitely got me giggling! As for Liam and Noah they are both responsible for some particularly heart rending, poignant moments ultimately proving that good things can come out of bad.
This is a storyline about the “butterfly effect”, acts of kindness and paying it forward. It’s about learning to take the rough with the smooth and opening your heart to new ways of living even if it isn’t the life you originally had planned. Life is an adventure full of both wonderful happy memories and the not so great ones but with family, blood related or not, and friends by your side the future doesn’t have to be a daunting prospect as some of these characters may initially believe. In a nutshell, we all need to “be more Jack”. My only criticism is that the storyline is far from original, perhaps it’s too reminiscent of that film whose name I can’t mention but thanks to the big hearted, warm and loving individuals who grace us with their presence it’s a novel to fall head over heels in love with.
I rarely read novels twice but The Art of Loving You is one I’d happily dive back into on the occasions when life is getting on top of me and I need to be reminded that somewhere, out there is a world brimming over with love and kindness. There’s a genuine warmth to this author’s writing which is hard to beat. I gobbled up the majority of this beautiful novel with my eyes brimming with tears. Happy tears and sad tears. Have tissues at the ready…you won’t get through to the end without them! This wins 5 heavenly ⭐️ from me but if I were possible I’d easily give this book 20!!
My thanks as always to the publisher HQ and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
In the follow up to her first love story The Life We Almost Had Amelia Henley packs an emotional punch, reducing you to a blubbering mess once again with this beautiful tearjerker of a novel. Unapologetically romantic and sentimental this is the story of Libby and Jack who are embarking on a new adventure as a couple and life couldn’t be more exciting. With the keys to a property they plan to turn into an art centre/ retreat for under privileged kids courtesy of their ‘surrogate grandfather’ Sid they have so much to look forward to together. However even the best laid plans can have a habit of going awry so when life throws a massive spanner in the works in the form of four life changing phone calls it’s going to take an awful lot of love, kindness, imagination and perseverance to reinvent the future.
Taking inspiration from a much loved film (thank you for that trip down memory lane!) this novel will have instant appeal for sentimental old, and young, fools alike. If you’re going to pick up a piece of fiction that deals with delicate and sensitive topics, embracing emotions that will be uniquely personal to every individual you want an author who will write direct from the heart, someone who can blend compassion and sorrow with love and romance, but who can also manage to make you smile and even laugh through the sadness, lifting you up beyond the clouds to find rays of warm sunshine. Amelia Henley does just that with the assistance of a cast of three dimensional characters who literally leap off the pages and burrow their way into your soul. Adding her own special stamp on the genre she slides a few miniature twists into the proceedings (a nod to her psychological thriller roots) to ensure there’s an element of surprise, however small, along the way.
So, as the storyline marches in time to the beat of certain refrains octogenarian Sid is so fond of saying, it’s the characters who bring this romantic tale alive and none more so than Sid himself. His philosophy on life is one worth listening to and I don’t think I’ll be the only person to say he’s my absolute favourite character. With his predilection for mints and tobacco and memories of his beloved wife Norma serving as inspiration for the likes of Libby I’d adopt Sid any day of the week. What a shame not everyone can be lucky enough to have a Sid or a Jack in their lives but we can all dream can’t we?? The character who provided me with the most laughs though has to be Libby’s mum who can be relied upon for an anecdote to suit every conceivable situation courtesy of her bakery customers. Libby and her sister Alice may find them irritating but they definitely got me giggling! As for Liam and Noah they are both responsible for some particularly heart rending, poignant moments ultimately proving that good things can come out of bad.
This is a storyline about the “butterfly effect”, acts of kindness and paying it forward. It’s about learning to take the rough with the smooth and opening your heart to new ways of living even if it isn’t the life you originally had planned. Life is an adventure full of both wonderful happy memories and the not so great ones but with family, blood related or not, and friends by your side the future doesn’t have to be a daunting prospect as some of these characters may initially believe. In a nutshell, we all need to “be more Jack”. My only criticism is that the storyline is far from original, perhaps it’s too reminiscent of that film whose name I can’t mention but thanks to the big hearted, warm and loving individuals who grace us with their presence it’s a novel to fall head over heels in love with.
I rarely read novels twice but The Art of Loving You is one I’d happily dive back into on the occasions when life is getting on top of me and I need to be reminded that somewhere, out there is a world brimming over with love and kindness. There’s a genuine warmth to this author’s writing which is hard to beat. I gobbled up the majority of this beautiful novel with my eyes brimming with tears. Happy tears and sad tears. Have tissues at the ready…you won’t get through to the end without them! This wins 5 heavenly ⭐️ from me but if I were possible I’d easily give this book 20!!
My thanks as always to the publisher HQ and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2021
"The butterfly effect. The delicate flutter of wings. The tiniest change leading to chaos, catastrophe, an ordered life falling apart."
The Art of Loving You is a different kind of love story. An exploration of love, grief and the afterlife, it looks at what we do with the love we have for someone when they are suddenly gone and asks how we find new meaning when life feels meaningless.
It is narrated by Libby, who has been left heartbroken and adrift after the sudden death of her soulmate Jack. But it isn’t only grief that she is struggling with, Libby is also finding it hard to trust people and the world around her. She is stuck in a tortuous roller-coaster that she can’t seem to get off. Family and friends rally around and do their best, but nothing helps. All she wants is the one thing she can’t have: Jack.
Skillfully written, every page is coated in pain, but there is a hopefulness that creeps in and some funny moments that lighten the mood. But the writing device I enjoyed most of all was how Libby would insert snippets of things that are yet to happen or be revealed, referencing her ignorant bliss before something rocked her world. This happens mostly at the end of a chapter, a cunning ploy by the author to make the book impossible to put down that totally worked on this reader. That devilish hint of foreboding that kept me on the edge of my seat and made me think I’d read just one more chapter; and then another, and another. Before I knew it I’d flown through half the book. Well written and well played, Ms. Henley.
"Enjoy the beer and skittles days."
There are some wonderful and fascinating characters in the book and I really liked both Libby and Jack, but the one who stole my heart was Sid. Delightful, funny and wise, he brightened up every scene he was in and I could have happily read an entire book just about him. I loved his relationship with Jack and Libby and I feel like I need to write his words of wisdom in a notebook. He is a character that I won’t forget and I think will make an impact on everyone who reads this book.
Uplifting, emotional, heartbreaking and hopeful, The Art of Loving You is an hopelessly romantic tearjerker that also manages to be funny and real. A truly beautiful and captivating story that I highly recommend.
The Art of Loving You is a different kind of love story. An exploration of love, grief and the afterlife, it looks at what we do with the love we have for someone when they are suddenly gone and asks how we find new meaning when life feels meaningless.
It is narrated by Libby, who has been left heartbroken and adrift after the sudden death of her soulmate Jack. But it isn’t only grief that she is struggling with, Libby is also finding it hard to trust people and the world around her. She is stuck in a tortuous roller-coaster that she can’t seem to get off. Family and friends rally around and do their best, but nothing helps. All she wants is the one thing she can’t have: Jack.
Skillfully written, every page is coated in pain, but there is a hopefulness that creeps in and some funny moments that lighten the mood. But the writing device I enjoyed most of all was how Libby would insert snippets of things that are yet to happen or be revealed, referencing her ignorant bliss before something rocked her world. This happens mostly at the end of a chapter, a cunning ploy by the author to make the book impossible to put down that totally worked on this reader. That devilish hint of foreboding that kept me on the edge of my seat and made me think I’d read just one more chapter; and then another, and another. Before I knew it I’d flown through half the book. Well written and well played, Ms. Henley.
"Enjoy the beer and skittles days."
There are some wonderful and fascinating characters in the book and I really liked both Libby and Jack, but the one who stole my heart was Sid. Delightful, funny and wise, he brightened up every scene he was in and I could have happily read an entire book just about him. I loved his relationship with Jack and Libby and I feel like I need to write his words of wisdom in a notebook. He is a character that I won’t forget and I think will make an impact on everyone who reads this book.
Uplifting, emotional, heartbreaking and hopeful, The Art of Loving You is an hopelessly romantic tearjerker that also manages to be funny and real. A truly beautiful and captivating story that I highly recommend.
July 22, 2021
Libby and Jack are young and in love. They have their whole lives ahead of them
and they have just been gifted a run-down property to renovate which will bring artist Jack’s dream of an art retreat for troubled teenagers to life. Their elderly best friend Sid has given his house to them as he has recently moved into a care facility and it seems that everything is going swimmingly for them both. Life is good and Jack is close to proposing to Libby when an absolutely devastating occurrence shocks them both and changes their lives forever. Life will never be the same again and how will Libby cope with this all consuming grief and pain?
From the moment I began to read this book I just fell in love with the characters of both Libby and Jack. In fact, all of the characters are likeable and so real. Their friend Sid is a fabulous character and is like a substitute grandfather for them both. Libby’s relationship with her sister is relatable and touching.
The sadness that hits Libby and hit me as a reader is a shock and I did find myself with tears in my eyes as I read. This does give way to little glimmers of hope and beauty as Libby discovers that life is worth living again. There is the renewed energy that she shows towards realising Jack’s dream, her sister’s baby to look forward to and friendships with Sid, Liam and Noah to keep her going. Slowly her relationship with her mother is repairing and the grief makes way for something else: hope.
This story is written beautifully and with such feeling. I enjoyed the little snippets and clues as to what was going to happen in the next chapters. I could not wait to pick the book up and read more about Libby’s life and I ended up with a huge smile on my face as it ended.
I thoroughly recommend this excellent tear-jerking yet positive book.
and they have just been gifted a run-down property to renovate which will bring artist Jack’s dream of an art retreat for troubled teenagers to life. Their elderly best friend Sid has given his house to them as he has recently moved into a care facility and it seems that everything is going swimmingly for them both. Life is good and Jack is close to proposing to Libby when an absolutely devastating occurrence shocks them both and changes their lives forever. Life will never be the same again and how will Libby cope with this all consuming grief and pain?
From the moment I began to read this book I just fell in love with the characters of both Libby and Jack. In fact, all of the characters are likeable and so real. Their friend Sid is a fabulous character and is like a substitute grandfather for them both. Libby’s relationship with her sister is relatable and touching.
The sadness that hits Libby and hit me as a reader is a shock and I did find myself with tears in my eyes as I read. This does give way to little glimmers of hope and beauty as Libby discovers that life is worth living again. There is the renewed energy that she shows towards realising Jack’s dream, her sister’s baby to look forward to and friendships with Sid, Liam and Noah to keep her going. Slowly her relationship with her mother is repairing and the grief makes way for something else: hope.
This story is written beautifully and with such feeling. I enjoyed the little snippets and clues as to what was going to happen in the next chapters. I could not wait to pick the book up and read more about Libby’s life and I ended up with a huge smile on my face as it ended.
I thoroughly recommend this excellent tear-jerking yet positive book.
May 25, 2021
Libby and Jack are on the brink of an amazing new life together, a new home, a new project, a new adventure. A tragic twist of fate rips their dreams apart and nothing will ever be the same again.
I'm not a huge lover of romance, but The Art of Loving You is so much more than that. It's a powerful, moving and 'cry one minute and laugh the next' story of love, loss and hope in the face of adversity.
The plot was a little bit predictable but while she isn't exactly reinventing the wheel, Henley is a fantastic writer. The story flowed wonderfully and was so captivating, I binged it in 24 hours. The whole cast is incredibly likeable and relatable (who wouldn't want a Sid in their lives?) which makes the story even more gut wrenchingly heartbreaking. I don't often cry at books, but this had me bubbling like a baby and vowing to 'be more Jack'. I'm a sucker for a found family trope and I love that Henley gave Libby a found family that merged so beautifully with her biological one.
The Art of Loving You is an enjoyable, quick read that leaves you feeling hopeful and warm and fuzzy inside. I highly recommend it for fans of Jojo Moyes, Sophie Cousins and Marian Keyes.
A massive thank you to Netgalley and HQ for my advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
I'm not a huge lover of romance, but The Art of Loving You is so much more than that. It's a powerful, moving and 'cry one minute and laugh the next' story of love, loss and hope in the face of adversity.
The plot was a little bit predictable but while she isn't exactly reinventing the wheel, Henley is a fantastic writer. The story flowed wonderfully and was so captivating, I binged it in 24 hours. The whole cast is incredibly likeable and relatable (who wouldn't want a Sid in their lives?) which makes the story even more gut wrenchingly heartbreaking. I don't often cry at books, but this had me bubbling like a baby and vowing to 'be more Jack'. I'm a sucker for a found family trope and I love that Henley gave Libby a found family that merged so beautifully with her biological one.
The Art of Loving You is an enjoyable, quick read that leaves you feeling hopeful and warm and fuzzy inside. I highly recommend it for fans of Jojo Moyes, Sophie Cousins and Marian Keyes.
A massive thank you to Netgalley and HQ for my advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
July 20, 2021
A beautifully written heart-breaking story that will stay with you forever!
After falling in love with Amelia’s debut novel last year, I couldn’t wait for her next book. Did I take this story to my heart as much as I did with The Life We Almost Had? Absolutely!
This incredible story had my attention from the start where I fell in love with the main characters Libby and Jack. The blurb makes it clear that life for this lovely young couple doesn’t always remain all beer and skittles (you’ll know what I mean here when you read the book). It isn’t long before we realise this and all I can say is get the tissues ready. Not many books make me cry by chapter four.
Another character who you can’t help but fall in love with is eighty-year-old Sid. A friend to Libby and Jack but more like a Grandfather, Sid plays a huge part in this couple’s life and future. He’s not had an easy life himself, but he is an upbeat character and made me smile a lot throughout the story. Everybody needs a Sid in their life!
The story is perfectly paced and beautifully written with real-life situations at the core. If I’ve learnt anything from this book, then it is to not waste a single day and enjoy everything in life and never take anything for granted.
Amelia’s extensive research and her own life experiences shine through every chapter in this book, she really is an incredible writer. I don’t know how she does it, but she manages to make everything seem so real, you literally feel like you’re there, right inside the story. I felt all the heartache and happiness that the characters felt.
This book broke my heart and then slowly chapter by chapter it put it back together again. The Art of Loving You is an absolute must-read this summer!
Thank you so much to Amelia Henley for sending me a copy of this book, right when I needed it most and Thank you to HQ for including me on the blog tour 😀
After falling in love with Amelia’s debut novel last year, I couldn’t wait for her next book. Did I take this story to my heart as much as I did with The Life We Almost Had? Absolutely!
This incredible story had my attention from the start where I fell in love with the main characters Libby and Jack. The blurb makes it clear that life for this lovely young couple doesn’t always remain all beer and skittles (you’ll know what I mean here when you read the book). It isn’t long before we realise this and all I can say is get the tissues ready. Not many books make me cry by chapter four.
Another character who you can’t help but fall in love with is eighty-year-old Sid. A friend to Libby and Jack but more like a Grandfather, Sid plays a huge part in this couple’s life and future. He’s not had an easy life himself, but he is an upbeat character and made me smile a lot throughout the story. Everybody needs a Sid in their life!
The story is perfectly paced and beautifully written with real-life situations at the core. If I’ve learnt anything from this book, then it is to not waste a single day and enjoy everything in life and never take anything for granted.
Amelia’s extensive research and her own life experiences shine through every chapter in this book, she really is an incredible writer. I don’t know how she does it, but she manages to make everything seem so real, you literally feel like you’re there, right inside the story. I felt all the heartache and happiness that the characters felt.
This book broke my heart and then slowly chapter by chapter it put it back together again. The Art of Loving You is an absolute must-read this summer!
Thank you so much to Amelia Henley for sending me a copy of this book, right when I needed it most and Thank you to HQ for including me on the blog tour 😀
June 21, 2021
From the first page I thought, yes, I'm going to love this book. The descriptions like honeysuckle and happiness just made me smile and imagine the amazing smell of honeysuckle.
I can really relate to this because hubby and I were smiling so much when we bought our first house and got the keys that our face ached, I was always taking pictures and it was just perfect, exhausting but perfect.
I really related to Jack with his involvement with young people because I gave a degree in Youth and Community development and can really picture his dream for the area he lives.
I was hoping so much that I was wrong thinking Jack had done something he may regret doing down the line.
I really love the despite their hard times Libby and the gang continue with the plans and I really like the friendship building with Libby and young Liam. I wasn't a fan of Noah in this story and I think Libby was good to forgive him bit he also seems to have gone through a lot.
What a brilliant book. It's both emotional and heartwarming.
I can really relate to this because hubby and I were smiling so much when we bought our first house and got the keys that our face ached, I was always taking pictures and it was just perfect, exhausting but perfect.
I really related to Jack with his involvement with young people because I gave a degree in Youth and Community development and can really picture his dream for the area he lives.
I was hoping so much that I was wrong thinking Jack had done something he may regret doing down the line.
I really love the despite their hard times Libby and the gang continue with the plans and I really like the friendship building with Libby and young Liam. I wasn't a fan of Noah in this story and I think Libby was good to forgive him bit he also seems to have gone through a lot.
What a brilliant book. It's both emotional and heartwarming.
May 31, 2021
Firstly thank you to netgalley for the oppurtunity to read the second offering from Amelia Henley. After reading her first novel, i knew inhad to give this one a go. I have to say, it was very good.iit didnt break me like the first one but i was close to tears on quite a few occasions. All the characters were lovely and i definitely warmed to them all for one reason or another. A beautiful story that really makes you appreciate your loved ones, and shows that you really dont know what is around the corner, so you should make the most of the time you have with your loved ones because things can change in an instant. Definitely worth a read if you enjoyed amelias first love story
August 10, 2021
Firstly thank you HQ for sending me this #gifted book 📖
What a wonderful surprise! I haven’t read a book like this in ages, so easy to read, emotional but uplifting and I do always love to come back to books just like this one. It reminded me of Paige Toon, Sophie Cousens and Rebecca Serle and was definitely one I could easily have read in a day.
For lovers of uplifting and romantic books this one is just beautiful.
All the stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a wonderful surprise! I haven’t read a book like this in ages, so easy to read, emotional but uplifting and I do always love to come back to books just like this one. It reminded me of Paige Toon, Sophie Cousens and Rebecca Serle and was definitely one I could easily have read in a day.
For lovers of uplifting and romantic books this one is just beautiful.
All the stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 12, 2021
I slipped into Jack and Libby’s world straight away.
The story evokes all emotions and it feels like a rollercoaster at times.
I really enjoyed the style of writing as it flowed really well.
A definite recommendation from me.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
The story evokes all emotions and it feels like a rollercoaster at times.
I really enjoyed the style of writing as it flowed really well.
A definite recommendation from me.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
June 16, 2021
This story made me cry, like snot bubbling ugly cry. It tore at my heart, and after personally experiencing a very similar twist of fate, I felt this whole story deep in my bones.
It was wonderfully written and it’s going to stay with me for a very long time.
It was wonderfully written and it’s going to stay with me for a very long time.
February 27, 2022
It was hard to put down this book. A. Henley knows how to write a great book! I was close to tears many times. The story was beautifully sad, but also hopeful. I LOVED the ending. Everything is going to be fine.
May 16, 2022
Oh this book 🥲. I loved every single thing about this book, I read this over 24 hours, I couldn’t put it down. It broke my heart and put me back together again. It made me laugh and made me absolutely sob. I already wish I could read it again for the first time.
A beautifully written story about love, loss and learning to cope with grief. Whilst the book is widely heartbreaking there is so much happiness and uplifting moments. A lovely bundle of characters, I just wanted to give them all a big hug and tell them they’re amazing.
I have to discuss Sid, a grandfather figure to Libby, what a loving and gentle human. He melted my heart with his kindness.
This novel is packed with so much throughout that you find yourself so engrossed. The characters are so well described and it was written so brilliantly, it felt like the whole story came to life. A lovely unforgettable special read, one I absolutely recommend. ♥️
A beautifully written story about love, loss and learning to cope with grief. Whilst the book is widely heartbreaking there is so much happiness and uplifting moments. A lovely bundle of characters, I just wanted to give them all a big hug and tell them they’re amazing.
I have to discuss Sid, a grandfather figure to Libby, what a loving and gentle human. He melted my heart with his kindness.
This novel is packed with so much throughout that you find yourself so engrossed. The characters are so well described and it was written so brilliantly, it felt like the whole story came to life. A lovely unforgettable special read, one I absolutely recommend. ♥️
January 12, 2024
This book captivated my thoughts and emotions. The writing style is descriptive yet easy to read. I laughed, cried and smiled I loved the ending. HOPE believe in the future take 1 day at a time and through hardship will be a shining light.
February 23, 2022
Primer libro que leo de la autora y me encanta!!!! Muy bonito, hermosa la prosa, las reflexiones son tan inspiradoras, todo de libro es genial.
Este libro hay duelos, problemas familiares, secretos, intentos de suicidio. Son temas delicados pero que nos ayudan a entender el entorno de la situación. La protagonista muy valiente y fuerte se ve claramente si evolución. Los personajes secundarios todos me encantaron.
Este libro hay duelos, problemas familiares, secretos, intentos de suicidio. Son temas delicados pero que nos ayudan a entender el entorno de la situación. La protagonista muy valiente y fuerte se ve claramente si evolución. Los personajes secundarios todos me encantaron.
July 13, 2023
A gentle, slightly predictable, and very character-driven story about grief, loving and letting go, and embracing life. It’s also refreshing compared to the many other similiar story written out there.
March 10, 2024
really emotional
July 19, 2023
woah this book made me cry within the first 100 pages. so many plot twists it was honestly a little much. cute story but a lot to keep up with
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