The stars are not in position - and Krystal Baker is determined to make them fall in line.
It's Krystal's 29th birthday. This year:
* Her boyfriend finally proposed after six years of dating (only for her to find out he cheated on her for five and a half of them)
* She landed her dream job as a writer at Craze magazine (which swiftly fell into administration)
* She moved into her dream flat overlooking the city (just for the pipes to explode making the place unliveable)
As she mourns everything wrong in her life, her best friend mutters the dreaded words: Saturn Return. The time in a woman's life where Saturn returns to the position it was in on the day of their birth, 29.5 years ago, and, according to legend, everything goes to shit. Krystal has never bought into astrology but maybe it's time to re-evaluate - because if the stars got her into this mess, they can get her out of it. And she only has six months to make things right.
Loaded with crystals, horoscopes, tarot cards and a carefully aligned chakra or two, Krystal's determined to have her life back on track by the time Saturn returns. No longer shall she brand herself a 'human disaster' because this time it's not her fault, it's written in the treacherous stars.
It's Krystal versus the universe in a fight for her future that she's determined to win.
Eleanor Pilcher is a writer based in London. She is a Freelance Marketing Consultant, Content Creator on TikTok @eleanorpilcher and the co-host of Why You're Reading, a Top 10 Apple Podcast.
Dieses Buch war mal was anderes und es hat mir richtig gut gefallen! Die Beziehung unserer Protagonistin endet zu Beginn des Buches wohl so ziemlich auf die schlimmste Art und Weise, die man sich vorstellen kann – mit einem Betrug und einem nun-Gott-sei-Dank Ex-Freund, der einfach nur absolut uneinsichtig ist. Gott, hat dieser Mann mich wütend gemacht!
Nach dieser absoluten Misere, denn sie dachte, dass dieser Mann, der „Eine“ wäre, wendet sie sich mehr oder weniger durch einen Zufall der Astrologie zu und findet in Sternzeichen, Karten und Kristallen ihre Zuflucht.
Nun muss ich sagen, dass ich dieses ganze Thema Sternzeichen selbst unglaublich faszinierend finde und obwohl ich mich noch nicht sonderlich viel mit Kristallen beschäftigt habe, fand ich auch diesen Aspekt des Buches sehr interessant. Unsere Protagonistin Krystal startet sogar einen Blog! Etwas womit ich mich wirklich sehr gut identifizieren kann. Alles in allem war mir Krystal einfach auf Anhieb sympathisch und ich fand es ganz reizend, wie sie in ihrer neuen Liebe für die Themen Sternzeichen und Horoskope aufgegangen ist. Allerdings blieb es natürlich nicht lange so, denn über kurz oder lang hat sich das ganze in eine Obsession verwandelt, die leider gar nicht gut für Krystal war, denn diese hat ihr in einigen Bereichen geschadet, auch wenn sie das zunächst gar nicht erkannt hat. Es gab Situationen in denen hätte ich sie am liebsten durch das Buch gepackt und geschüttelt, damit sie wieder klar sieht. Besonders eine Situation, in der ein bestimmter wuterregender Mann eine Rolle spielte, hat mich beim Lesen buchstäblich in meiner Bewegung innehalte lassen. So geschockt war ich von Krystals Gedankengängen in dieser Szene. All das zeigt natürlich in erster Linie, dass mich das Buch wirklich gefesselt hat. 😊
Aber da war auch noch so viel mehr! Ryan.. oh Ryan! Er war toll, auch wenn ich mir gewünscht hätte, dass es noch ein wenig mehr Knistern gegeben hätte. Und auch Krystals beste Freundinnen. Was ein sympathischer Haufen! Ihre Textnachrichten haben sehr viel Spaß gemacht. 😊
Demnach mein Fazit: Ein wirklich unterhaltsames Buch mit einem Thema, dass ich so noch nicht in Büchern gelesen habe.
When everything suddenly goes wrong in Krystal’s life - she loses her job, her flat and her fiancé all in one fell swoop - she decides to leave her future up to the stars and planets. Suddenly into astrology, she checks her horoscopes every day and lets them guide her, as well as taking a sudden interest in crystals and tarot readings. Whilst it all seems to start off well, she soon finds herself isolating her two best friends, missing a dream job interview and potentially losing out on love - is it possible that the stars are what’s keeping her from her dream life?
This was a really quirky and brilliantly paced story - the dialogue and narration is really witty and hilarious, so it feels like it speeds by. I found all the astrology stuff quite fascinating, and even as a huge cynic I was tempted to pick up some crystals of my own by the end of it, even if it’s all in the mind. And that is kind of the big takeaway from this story - that it’s not actually astrology and Krystal’s horoscopes which are the reason for things, but the fact that she believes they are. And in that same vein, they are also the thing holding her back.
Now whilst Krystal is smart and funny, and I could sympathise with her situation, she wasn’t the easiest character to warm to - she can kind of be a brat! I found myself loving the supporting characters far more, like our wonderful love interest Ryan, and her two besties, Tina and Paige, who aren’t afraid to tell her she’s being self-involved.
This is a really fun, uplifting and at times slightly wacky story, and as a fellow Leo I found myself rather drawn into all the talk of personality traits, although I’m not sure I tick many of the boxes! I think there’s a youthfulness to the writing and Krystal which may suit a younger audience, but would happily recommend this to anyone after an uplifting and original story which will make them laugh!
I’m a long-time subscriber to Ellie Pilcher’s newsletter so, when she announced that her debut novel had been bought for publication, I was sure I’d enjoy it.
On many levels, What Planet Can I Blame This On? is a really fun book – Krystal navigates her way through her new life circumstances with plenty of pratfalls and a supporting cast of hilarious characters like the ladies from her astrology class. In many other ways, though it has a serious point to make about our mental health as we age, and the way obsessive behaviours can overwhelm our daily life and relationships. But please don’t let me make it sound heavy – it really is a fun book to read!
Overall, Krystal is a likeable character and, even as you can see her getting pulled deeper into astrological mumbo-jumbo (disclosure: I am a confirmed cynic about all that stuff), it’s still really easy to sympathise with her and support her.
There are some lovely romantic touches to the book and who can argue with a book where a pivotal scene takes place in Waterstones Piccadilly?
Overall, this is a great debut – I don’t know HOW Ellie found time to write it among all her other jobs – and I’m excited to read more from her.
From the first page to the last, this book is guaranteed to have you laughing out loud and will maybe make you check your own horoscope.
Who can blame Krystal for following signs from the universe after her life is falling to pieces? But the more she listens to the universe, the more she ignores her friends and family. As the much anticipated Saturn Return draws closer, she faces a tough decision about her new obsession and those closest to her.
Anyone who is looking for a feelgood read with a clever plot and relatable characters, this is the book for you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
In the blink of an eye, 29-year old Krystal loses her job, her relationship, and her apartment. Her best friend, Tina, believes this is down to her ‘Saturn Return’ - an astrological event in which the planet returns to the same position it was in at her birth, and throws everything off balance. Krystal never bought into astrology before, but the recent events force her to re-evaluate; armed with crystals, tarot cards and horoscopes, she attempts to answer the question: if the stars got her into this mess, can they get her out of it?
The intertwining of astrology with contemporary romcom allows for a completely unique angle of narrative, and something of a masterpiece. Beneath the digestible language and numerous pop-culture references, this novel delves deep into the effect of obsession on forming and attaining relationships, mental well-being and deciphering important life decisions. It showcases the importance of support networks, and accessing help without shame and reluctance.
My favourite aspect of this novel was the emphasis on characterisation. Krystal was perfectly flawed, and demonstrated strong character development as time proceed. The cast as a whole were completely loveable; they possessed hilarious and down-to-earth qualities that created a sense of realism, allowing me to feel part of their network and feel alongside them. As well, the chemistry between Ryan and Krystal was impeccable, and made for a perfect slow-burn romance element alongside Tina and Paige’s wholesome relationship.
Overall, this novel is hilarious, heart-felt, and provides a gratifying ending. If I could give it all the stars in Krystal’s universe, I certainly would.
When I read the news that Ellie Pilcher had written a book which was being published in June, I knew that I had to keep up to date as to when I would be able to request an ARC. She has and continues to do such amazing work, especially for publishing hopefuls like myself, but even for those already in the industry too. Her #MarketYourMarketing series of events, available to watch on YouTube, are so brilliant and informative. I was thrilled when I was accepted on NetGalley to read and review her book, in exchange for an honest review.
What Planet Can I Blame This On? did not disappoint. Filled with combinations of humour, romance, friendships and astrology, these all complement each other to create a wonderful, enjoyable read.
Pilcher excellently weaves in astrology into the storyline. I am one to check my horoscope if something that I am reading has a section on it but have never really been interested in going any further, although I have been tempted to have a tarot card reading in London like protagonist Krystal does which I am still considering! You do not need to be an expert in astrology however to both understand and enjoy the book, because explanations of terms and other concepts are provided within the novel. I really liked this element and after reading, I think I may need to do some research into my own Saturn Return. This was cleverly used to create a plot where Krystal’s coping mechanism evolves to the point where she bases her actions on interpretations of her horoscope each day, using external influences and this to get her life back on track at first. However, what eventually happens is that it becomes overwhelming to the point that it is a hinderance rather than helpful. It was really great as the reader to see her grow as a character and to come to this realisation that her own feelings and those who care for her are much more important than letting the planets decide.
Krystal is a hilarious and delightful character. Her narrative is full of jokes evoked from pop culture references and observations. Her friends and family are also such brilliant characters that you would just love to know in real life. Her friends Tina and Paige are hugely supportive whilst also being two figures to push her to realisations that she needs to make. They also add to the comedic elements. Krystal, Tina and Paige complement each other through their different personality traits which allows their terrific friendship group to function as amazingly as it does. Her grandad was also another standout character with positive outlooks on life and offers wise advice to his granddaughter. Krystal’s undeniable chemistry with Ryan from the start, even when they constantly rebuke each other at the beginning but not so much in a very nasty way, blossoms into a relationship where they support each other on their individual endeavours, which was a pleasure to experience as the reader. Basically, all of the characters, other than David of course as the terrible ex-boyfriend, are pretty great and are both relatable and loveable in different ways.
Whether you love astrology or just have a vague interest in it, as I did, you will really enjoy this stunning, fun, unique and addictive debut! As this book and Ellie’s other projects show, she is exceptionally talented, and I look forward to continuing to follow her future endeavours.
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for the ARC of What Planet Can I Blame This On?, in exchange for an honest review!
When I started this book I was really looking forward to getting stuck in but unfortunately I found it very slow to begin and it didn't grab me. I did continue with it and the second half I found did grab me, it got better and I enjoyed it. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion
Saturn Return. It marks the time in a womans life when Saturn returns to exact place it was on the day she was born, when they're 29.5 years old. And according to Krystals best friends and many legends it's the time that life spectacularly falls apart.
Usually Krystal wouldn't believe in that stuff - but now on her 29th birthday things aren't looking too great.
Her boyfriend of six years finally proposed - only for it to come out that he doesn't believe in monogamy and hasn't this whole time.
She's finally got her dream home - only for the pipes to explode and leave her homeless.
She's landed her dream job as a writer - only for the company to close two weeks in.
It looks like the universe is really out to get her. So it's time to align her chakras, bring out the lucky crystals and fight back. If the stars got into this mess, they can get her out of it.
This was an exceptionally bright and funny debut for Ellie Pilcher - as a woman in her 20's I felt every single thing Krystal was putting out and it was so damn relatable. Krystal was witty, real and so very lovable - even in her lowest points. As our narrator, she was hilariously truthful and kept up an exciting pace throughout.
This was a wacky, absurd twist on the classic coming-of-age stories - because we don't stop growing when we become adults, do we? Full of adorably cute romance that definitely made my heart flutter a little bit and Krystals amazing friends who were inarguably the highlight of this story for me. Watching Krystal learn to unlove her useless ex and open herself up to the future was amazing, but seeing her and her best friends grow, learn and love each other was the gem I didn't see coming.
Lightheared, utterly adorable and so, so funny - this is an easy read that's from an author who's one to keep an eye on now!
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you to Ellie Pilcher and Hodder & Stoughton for an ARC in return for an honest review.
I was kindly #gifted a proof copy of What Planet Can I Blame This On? By Ellie Pilcher from the guys over at @hodder_studio
This book follows Krystal who finds herself single, homeless and jobless all within the same week. She turns to astrology to give her guidance and finds herself in some crazy situations. Can astrology really be the right way to live your life? Krystal soon finds out the true consequences of following an app rather than her heart for living her life.
“𝑭𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒐𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒆”
Upon reading this book, you would honestly not believe that Ellie is a debut author. I found her style of writing so humorous and lighthearted! I mean the line “𝑯𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝑴&𝑺 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑷𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚” literally had me laughing out loud! I loved the references to London and I’ve added the locations to my “places to visit” list.
I felt that the relationship with Ryan could have been a little bit steamier (personal preference) however I loved how he fell into her life the way he did. It emphasised Krystal’s belief of how fate dictates her life. The inclusion of the crazy friend duo Paige and Tina made the story heartwarming and I think everyone needs a pair of friends like them as they support Krystal through her struggles (and even give her a good talking to).
The main theme of astrology and fate throughout made the story unique compared to other rom com style books I’ve read in the past. I felt like the book was really educating and made me interested in the Saturn Rising and made me look to research my own star chart.
Honestly, i could go on with how much this book blew me away and I could not recommend this book more. I look forward to seeing more from this author in the future. Get your hands on a copy ASAP!
What happens when your coping mechanisms becomes the new cause of your problems?
In order to cope with her life falling apart just before her 29th birthday, Krystal Baker dives headlong into astrology in the delightful and relatable ‘What planet are we on?’ by Ellie Pilcher.
At first this helps get her life on track, until it then becomes her crutch, letting her miss what’s right in front of her, including her friendships and a burgeoning relationship with a rather lovely Irishman.
It’s easy to see our problems as something attributable to mystical factors, or find hope in the mystical realm, which is something relatable to many, especially women. I particularly like that Pilcher also addresses the fall out from this when Krystal becomes too reliant upon her horoscope to make decisions instead of taking control to decide for herself.
I loved Paige’s friends, the caustic and driven Paige and caring and reliable Tina who provide Krystal with support but also the much needed kick up the arse when she needs it. I also loved the wisdom shared by her grandfather in a very sweet scene after Paige’s newfound confidence hits a stumbling block.
If you’ve ever gone to astrology websites to plot your birth chart or read your horoscope, and are after a fun read, this is one to add to your reading list.
Thank you to Netgalley and publisher for the ARC. Views expressed are by a Scorpio sun, Aquarian moon and Leo rising.
Ok so I have to admit I was a little worried at first as I have never been a big fan of horoscopes and have never even heard of “Saturn’s Return” but it didn’t matter in the slightest! The astrology is easy to follow without being overwhelming or relentless and I actually learnt a lot about star signs and what houses they move into, something I’d never really read about before so this was a lovely change! I also really loved the little horoscope snippets at the start of each chapter 😌
Krystal’s life as she knows it all falls down around her at once and therefore she looks to the stars for help. In all honesty I would have looked to anything that would help if I was in her position, and probably having a mental breakdown would have been first on my agenda 😂 Krystal is an extremely likeable character and I laughed out loud at so many points. Herself and her friends, Paige and Tina, make a hilarious little group and have given me some of the best quotes I’ve ever seen.... “He’s M&S priced but Poundland quality” 👏🏼👏🏼 All of the characters felt like they could genuinely be real life people as nothing seemed too far fetched or exaggerated and I loved that!
A super light hearted and fun read which also touches on some mental health issues such as anxiety and panic attacks. This read gives you humour, reflection, great friendships and the cutest grandparent there ever was 👨🏻🦳🤍 I genuinely couldn’t fault it and would 100% recommend it!
This was such an amusing read, the mix of humour, romance, friendship and astrology made for a unique plot that at times had me laughing out loud and at others, rolling my eyes! Even if you know next to nothing about astrology (i.e me!) it was easy to follow and to put yourself in the shoes of Krystal - the situations that she finds herself in, were relatable as was the despair that came with them.
Admittedly, I didn't find Krystal the most likeable character to begin with, her unhealthy obsession with checking her horoscope (she really goes full force) causes more trouble than help as she distances herself from her mates but she grew on me as she started to own up to her mistakes and make amends with her friends. Friendship was a huge theme with Tina and Paige proving that good friends really are priceless, especially those who forgive and forget and help you get back on track. And the slow burn romance between Krystal and Ryan was the perfect frenemies to lovers storyline, which are always fun, I was glad to witness their relationship develop despite the many bumps in the road!
Overall, I found Krystal's (later than usual) coming of age story and Pilcher's debut to be both heart felt and hilarious, the ideal book to lose myself in over a sunny weekend - I really enjoyed it!
My review was originally posted as part of a blog tour on Instagram HERE
I recived an ARC from the publisher! Thank you! This have no impact on my review.
♡ REVIEW ♡ “WHAT PLANET CAN I BLAME THIS ON?” is a wonderful book about finding yourself, when several of the worst possible things hit you at the same time. It’s a quirky story with scarily familiar elements. Because when you try to discover new parts of yourself in a new hobby, it’s easy to let the rest of you disappear in it as well.
I loved all of the different elements that are in this book. Of course, we have a focus on astrology throughout the book, but I love how it focus’ on friendship, ego, and blossoming love right alongside it. Krystal (the MC) is one of those characters that you sometimes kinda wanna stop and shake a bit, because they’re so dumb. But you also really can’t do that because she’s so goddamn relatable and her actions makes sense! 😂
I wished we got to see and experience more of Krystal’s relationship with Mr. Hot Irish Guy (also called Ryan) even tho’ I love a good slow burn romance (which this was!) it was a little bit anti climatic that it ended the book with a little kiss. Not that I didn’t squeal or anything when it happened (😂😍), but I would’ve just liked to see it!
But generally I think this book had such a great pace for a romcom, and I loved how it’s a fresh take on the traditional contemporary romcom! I can definitely recommend this book - even if you’re not that into astrology. 😉
My rating: ⭐️ 4/5⭐️
Author: Ellie Pilcher Publisher: @Hodder_Studio Pub date: 3rd June 2021
This was a fun, easy, attention-grabbing read by debut author Ellie Pilcher about a woman who turns to astrology after suffering a series of life-changing misfortunes. Astrology and horoscopes aren't topics that I have any particular interest in and yet I was really intrigued (and entertained) to follow the story of Krystal, who steadily becomes obsessed with astrology and her Saturn Return, to the point where almost every decision she makes is based on what her horoscope recommends. While I couldn't relate to the character at all, I could still tell that she was realistically written and can imagine there's a lot of people who'd find her and her struggles really relatable. Pilcher's writing style is pretty impeccable for a debut author – the humour was definitely a stand out for me and kept me engaged throughout. I loved all the references to London and British humour too. Would definitely recommend this to people who are into Bridget Jones types of books, about a main character trying to find herself in her late 20s and with a strong focus on female friendship.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an eArc copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
Branching out a bit from my usual reading niches of fantasy, sci-fi and mystery, this book was a joy to deviate with.
- The characters were vibrant and multifaceted. The friendship between Krystal and her two gal pals was particularly well portrayed and felt FRIENDS-esque in it's warm and cosy friendship feel.
- Whilst several plot points were reasonably easy to predict, the storyline was very enjoyable and, again, cosy.
- The author has clearly researched well and it shows in the details of the book, especially the astrological elements.
- Krystal's grandad is a wise, wise man and his advice resonated with more than his granddaughter.
- The mental health advice included in this book is very sound and it made me so happy to see it discussed in a book.
My little adventure outside of my comfort zone was well worth it and What Planet Can I Blame This On? really made me laugh, smile and think. I can't wait to read more from this author.
Rated 3 1/2 stars - This is surprisingly very funny. It starts with Krystal's birthday and her bemoaning her playlist, of which I may have furrowed my brow at Stay Shakespear's Sister, but each taste is different. Moving on... It's her birthday and her playlist dislike is the absolute least of her worries. Her boyfriend and his behaviour is her biggest problem. Luckily she has friends, Tina and Paige to turn to. The conversation that ensues is seriously funny and the humour in the descriptions and dialogue continue throughout as they decide what they want to do with the bad boyfriend. There's also a funny description and reference to Villanelle in Killing Eve and Harry Potter and other references to things such as pop culture and more, carefully placed, and in a witty way Life just tumbles for her as she then loses her job and finds herself which planet or star she can blame it all on. It's a book that lives and breaths in grown-up millienials in some ways and in another, in the most funniest ways, that the planets and stars have a lot to play in her life. As much as throughout, it is fun to laugh with Krystal and her friends and at her, it is easy to cheer her on and hope that things pick up in her life again, from all the freefalling catastrophes that life can throw at people. She then relies on horoscopes and planet alignments to help her re-evaluate her life and to try to change it and her friends are there too, full of kindness. Whatever stage you are in life, there will be something relatable and it is ultimately a laugh-out-loud book, that's as good as some sitcoms in some of the humour.
The humour makes this a wonderful book to sit with a glass of wine or something, out in the sun.
The story follows 29 year old Krystal who finds herself single, homeless and without a job all in one week! She becomes curious when her bestfriend mentions the words ‘Saturn Return’, the time in a woman’s life where Saturn returns to the position it was on their birth and everything leads to disaster. Krystal has never believed in Astrology before, but maybe it can help get her out of the mess. Will following horoscopes, tarot cards and crystals help get her life back on track.
I loved this book! It is genuinely laugh out loud, contemporary, and utterly relatable. A beautifully written fast paced story that encompasses friendships, romance, astrology and a ‘coming of age’ element. I absolutely adored it and read it so quickly.
Astrology is perfectly blended into the story, it is not overbearing which works really well. The popular culture references made this book so special. I felt like it was made for me – Princess Diaries quotes, Hot Fuzz reference, Tik Tok virals and of course Miranda’s comical ‘Tuesday’ - if you know, you know.
This review has been made possible thanks to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for providing me with an Advance Reader's Copy in exchange for an honest review.
The novel is about 29 year-old Kris, a young woman living her best life, working her dream job, living in her dream apartment with her fiancé. Within a week, she finds that he's been cheating on her for 5 1/2 out of their 6 years together, her apartment (and almost all of her belongings) floods due to an issue with the pipes and she gets made redundant from her job. She relies on her friends and leans heavily on astrology to guide her through her Saturn's Return in the hope that it would fix all of her problems. With many meet-cutes, fate intervening, and exploring spirituality, this book takes Kris through a journey of self-discovery and development to becoming a better person. 💃🏼
I found the tone of the novel really positive, with a good sense of humour and moments for reflection. You can feel the pain Kris feels by being abandoned by her ex, her despair due to not having a clear plan and the support of her family and friends through this difficult time in her life. While sometimes the dialogue felt a little too telling, trope-y and stilted, the characters were pretty well fleshed out and their relationships with each other, and the plot flows well from one notable event to another. 📖
I'd recommend this to anyone feeling a little lost in life, interested in spirituality or who has a set of tarot cards, a pile of rose quartz in the corner or a wish to understand what planet you can blame. 🔮
Krystal and her best pals are a group of very fun main characters and their experiences I’m sure resonate with many late 20s/early 30s readers (like myself). I found the premise of this book so enjoyable as I’ve been known to purchase crystals and listen to my horoscope every now and then. It was interesting to learn more about astrology alongside Krystal and as a Libra myself you know I’m all about fun! A cracking read that will resonate with twenty-somethings and young professionals trying to find their way in this crazy world - however maybe our fate is actually controlled out of this world ✨🪐
Krystal Baker is having just the worst week when she discovers it may be down to astrology and what is set in the stars. Following her horoscope leads her on a journey of coping with what has been thrown her way, and rebuilding her life. No spoilers! This book is just brilliant!! I loved it!! Laugh out loud hilariously funny, but also makes you stop and think. A joy to read about Krystal and her friends and the people in her life. Great story, well written, well thought out, can't wait for the next Ellie.Pilcher release! Thank you for the opportunity to read early NetGalley
“What Planet Can I Blame This On?” is a fun and quirky read that encapsulates what it’s like to have the rug pulled out from underneath you and finding the motivation to avidly create the steps needed get your life back on track... With some help from astrology, the stars, your horoscope and some funny friends.
About to turn 29, on paper Krystal is living her best life. Disaster strikes and she loses it all: she ends her long-term relationship with her cheating fiancé, goes to work to find out she’s lost her job, and then for the cherry on top - the pipes burst in her dream apartment, and has only a backpack of dry clothes to her name. Suddenly single/unemployed/homeless, she can luckily rely on the kindness of her best friends, Paige, with a rent-free sofa to sleep on, and Tina, who can’t help but think that Krystal’s bad luck is to blame on her Saturn Return.
I found the clever plot of this book fascinating, and I quickly did my own research of my Saturn Return - and unsurprisingly, I’m going through mine right now so this book was very welcomed. Google yours, it’s fascinating. Eagerly glued to living her life with what her horoscope tells her to do and how to act each day, we see Krystal obsessively follow the stars, tarot cards and her new crystals to prepare her for a new chapter that sees her life more on track than its current train wreck.
I valued the realistic journey of Krystal’s acceptance that not everything in her life can be determined by her daily horoscope. We see her cling on to a sense of consistency she finds in following it almost as a roadmap that will get her out of this funk. I adored her Grandfather’s character as the voice of reason and his lust for life and willingness to have a new hobby every few weeks. Each person in her life carries beautiful insights and it’s wonderful to see her surrounded by them.
I really enjoyed the way this story was written - it was quirky and made me laugh. The constant pop culture references fit perfectly with its tone of voice and I felt like I could relate to Krystal’s character throughout while she navigated life and love in London.
A massive thank you to NetGalley for an early e-copy of this book that came into my life at the perfect time... during my own Saturn Return.
Wanted to give up on this book so many times, I love the idea of astrology and tarot and I’m like that myself, but I found that I liked her character in the beginning then slowly disliked her as it went on. I was also told and led to believe that this was in fact a rom com which it really isn’t in my opinion, there is not enough of Ryan in the book don’t really get to see his personality at all really. 2/5 stars
This was such a light and fun read! I positively laughed out loud a couple of times, and I had a delightful time diving into this story! I loved how goofy Krystal was and her obsession with horoscopes. I can definitely recommend this.
I laughed a lot and had a lot of fun in reading this book. It's well plotted, full of humour and the characters are well developed. Recommended. Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine