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The Messy Lives of Book People
Have you ever wished you were someone else?
Mother of two Liv Green barely scrapes by as a maid to make ends meet, often finding escape in a good book while daydreaming of becoming a writer herself. So she can't believe her luck when she lands a job housekeeping for her personal hero, megabestselling author Essie Starling, a mysterious and intimidating recluse. The last thing Liv expected was to be the only person Essie talks to, which leads to a tenuous friendship.
But when Essie dies suddenly, a devastated Liv is astonished to learn of her last wish: for Liv to complete Essie's final novel. But to do so Liv will have to step into Essie's shoes, and as Liv begins to write, she uncovers secrets from the past that reveal a surprising connection between the two women--one that will change Liv's own story forever...
Mother of two Liv Green barely scrapes by as a maid to make ends meet, often finding escape in a good book while daydreaming of becoming a writer herself. So she can't believe her luck when she lands a job housekeeping for her personal hero, megabestselling author Essie Starling, a mysterious and intimidating recluse. The last thing Liv expected was to be the only person Essie talks to, which leads to a tenuous friendship.
But when Essie dies suddenly, a devastated Liv is astonished to learn of her last wish: for Liv to complete Essie's final novel. But to do so Liv will have to step into Essie's shoes, and as Liv begins to write, she uncovers secrets from the past that reveal a surprising connection between the two women--one that will change Liv's own story forever...
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 31, 2022
1,130 people are currently reading
33k people want to read
About the author
Phaedra Patrick
17books2,906followersPhaedra Patrick studied art and marketing and has worked as a stained glass artist, film festival organiser and communications manager. An award-winning short story writer, she now writes full time in Saddleworth where she lives with her family.
Her debut novel, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper, was translated into over twenty languages worldwide and has been optioned by a major Hollywood film studio.
Her second novel, Rise and Shine, Benedict Stone (named Wishes Under the Willow Tree in the UK), has been made into a Hallmark Movie and will premiere on TV in Autumn 2021.
Her third novel is The Library of Lost and Found, and the fourth one is titled The Secrets of Love Story Bridge (The Secrets of Sunshine in the UK).
You can find out more about Phaedra and her books at including writing tips
Please follow her on:
Twitter @phaedrapatrick
Instagram @PhaedraPatrick
Her debut novel, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper, was translated into over twenty languages worldwide and has been optioned by a major Hollywood film studio.
Her second novel, Rise and Shine, Benedict Stone (named Wishes Under the Willow Tree in the UK), has been made into a Hallmark Movie and will premiere on TV in Autumn 2021.
Her third novel is The Library of Lost and Found, and the fourth one is titled The Secrets of Love Story Bridge (The Secrets of Sunshine in the UK).
You can find out more about Phaedra and her books at including writing tips
Please follow her on:
Twitter @phaedrapatrick
Instagram @PhaedraPatrick
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April 6, 2022I really hope you enjoy this story about author Essie Starling and her housekeeper Liv Green, and what happens when Liv is left a life-changing last wish to complete Essie’s final novel.
I grew up in a cotton mill town, regarded as one of the most deprived places to live in the UK. As a small girl, going to the library was a treat for me, somewhere I could read and dream of becoming a writer one day. And I gave this same dream to my character Liv.
Personally, I write for many reasons � to show the boss who bullied me at work that I’m a better person, and also to make my family and friends proud. I write because words help to lift others up (more powerful than criticising and putting others down), and in memory of my cousin, my grandparents and a close friend who are no longer here.
Many of us daydream about having a different career or even being a celebrity, so it was interesting to explore what happens when dreams come true and if they live up to reality. A key message from the book is to be happy in your own skin and to discover what’s really important to you. I wish you lots of happy reading.
Best wishes
Phaedra
PS The book is called THE MESSY LIVES OF BOOK PEOPLE in the US and Canada, and THE BOOK SHARE in the UK
I grew up in a cotton mill town, regarded as one of the most deprived places to live in the UK. As a small girl, going to the library was a treat for me, somewhere I could read and dream of becoming a writer one day. And I gave this same dream to my character Liv.
Personally, I write for many reasons � to show the boss who bullied me at work that I’m a better person, and also to make my family and friends proud. I write because words help to lift others up (more powerful than criticising and putting others down), and in memory of my cousin, my grandparents and a close friend who are no longer here.
Many of us daydream about having a different career or even being a celebrity, so it was interesting to explore what happens when dreams come true and if they live up to reality. A key message from the book is to be happy in your own skin and to discover what’s really important to you. I wish you lots of happy reading.
Best wishes
Phaedra
PS The book is called THE MESSY LIVES OF BOOK PEOPLE in the US and Canada, and THE BOOK SHARE in the UK
March 30, 2022
What a fantastic title!
What a charming book cover!
But, unfortunately it was just an okay read.
Perhaps because this book seemed like a cross between “Who is Maud Dixon� by Alexandra Andrews and “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo� by Taylor Jenkins Reid (which was even mentioned in the book) and both featured difficult authors-and those employed by them-it felt a bit too familiar and predictable.
When the moody, reclusive bestselling author Essie Starling, stipulates in her Will that upon her death, her house cleaner, Liv Green should finish writing her twentieth and final-Georgia Rory novel -it will lead Liv on a path of self discovery.
Instead of Morocco (Maud Dixon) Liv will travel to Croatia and she will seek out Essie’s past husbands (Evelyn Hugo) in an attempt to figure out who had been her true love, so that she could “write� this character for the fictional Georgia Rory.
Throughout the narrative we also get to read snippets from the Georgia Rory novels, and well, let’s just say they would have been DNF for me! 🤭🙄
Perhaps readers who haven’t read the above mentioned books will be more charmed by this one than I was, as I seem to be an outlier once again.
Sigh
I really wanted to love this novel.
Thank You to Park Row for the gifted ARC of this book. Fans of Phaedra Patrick’s past novels can pick this one up on May 31, 2022
What a charming book cover!
But, unfortunately it was just an okay read.
Perhaps because this book seemed like a cross between “Who is Maud Dixon� by Alexandra Andrews and “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo� by Taylor Jenkins Reid (which was even mentioned in the book) and both featured difficult authors-and those employed by them-it felt a bit too familiar and predictable.
When the moody, reclusive bestselling author Essie Starling, stipulates in her Will that upon her death, her house cleaner, Liv Green should finish writing her twentieth and final-Georgia Rory novel -it will lead Liv on a path of self discovery.
Instead of Morocco (Maud Dixon) Liv will travel to Croatia and she will seek out Essie’s past husbands (Evelyn Hugo) in an attempt to figure out who had been her true love, so that she could “write� this character for the fictional Georgia Rory.
Throughout the narrative we also get to read snippets from the Georgia Rory novels, and well, let’s just say they would have been DNF for me! 🤭🙄
Perhaps readers who haven’t read the above mentioned books will be more charmed by this one than I was, as I seem to be an outlier once again.
Sigh
I really wanted to love this novel.
Thank You to Park Row for the gifted ARC of this book. Fans of Phaedra Patrick’s past novels can pick this one up on May 31, 2022
September 30, 2022
"The Messy Lives of Book People" by Phaedra Patrick is a delightful little respite!
Working as a 'house cleaner', forty-two-year-old Olivia Green can't believe her good fortune meeting and being hired by Essie Starling. Liv idolizes Essie, the celebrated author who abruptly disappeared from public view, years ago, after receiving the most prestigious award of her writing career.
With dreams of becoming a writer, Liv has hopes of learning from Essie by watching and listening to her when she works. Liv soon realizes she is the only person Essie interacts with on a day-to-day basis and although their working relationship begins to bud with touches of light conversation, their interactions are brief.
When Essie doesn't return from a short trip away, Liv fears she has disappeared once again. She's soon informed of Essie's death and her last wish for Liv to finish her final book. She's shocked and saddened by the news of Essie's death but grateful for the opportunity that has come her way.
Liv wonders why Essie has chosen her to complete this monumental task and if Liv is expected to step in for her, she needs to find out more about Essie's past. But mostly, Liv wonders how on earth she'll ever pull this off!
A fun read that has the serious topics of death, alcohol abuse, divorce, deception, and integrity intermingled through the story. Main character Liv is a breath of fresh air and in the midst of living her dream she brings logic and honesty to the forefront of the story. The author has certainly created a main character that is believably genuine.
The audiobook is narrated by Katy Sobey whose lovely British accent and voicing is perfect for this quick and easy read. It's one that can easily be listened to at an accelerated speed.
Although this isn't a memorable or stand-out story, I do recommend it as a delightful little respite for those who enjoy Women’s Fiction, giving your mind a nice little break from the superfluous minutia in your life. I do hope, if you partake, you enjoy meeting Olivia Green!
3.5 stars!
Working as a 'house cleaner', forty-two-year-old Olivia Green can't believe her good fortune meeting and being hired by Essie Starling. Liv idolizes Essie, the celebrated author who abruptly disappeared from public view, years ago, after receiving the most prestigious award of her writing career.
With dreams of becoming a writer, Liv has hopes of learning from Essie by watching and listening to her when she works. Liv soon realizes she is the only person Essie interacts with on a day-to-day basis and although their working relationship begins to bud with touches of light conversation, their interactions are brief.
When Essie doesn't return from a short trip away, Liv fears she has disappeared once again. She's soon informed of Essie's death and her last wish for Liv to finish her final book. She's shocked and saddened by the news of Essie's death but grateful for the opportunity that has come her way.
Liv wonders why Essie has chosen her to complete this monumental task and if Liv is expected to step in for her, she needs to find out more about Essie's past. But mostly, Liv wonders how on earth she'll ever pull this off!
A fun read that has the serious topics of death, alcohol abuse, divorce, deception, and integrity intermingled through the story. Main character Liv is a breath of fresh air and in the midst of living her dream she brings logic and honesty to the forefront of the story. The author has certainly created a main character that is believably genuine.
The audiobook is narrated by Katy Sobey whose lovely British accent and voicing is perfect for this quick and easy read. It's one that can easily be listened to at an accelerated speed.
Although this isn't a memorable or stand-out story, I do recommend it as a delightful little respite for those who enjoy Women’s Fiction, giving your mind a nice little break from the superfluous minutia in your life. I do hope, if you partake, you enjoy meeting Olivia Green!
3.5 stars!
January 20, 2023
Were you looking for a rip-off of paired with ? If so, you've come to the right place. But if you've already read those two books (and especially if you liked them), then you can just go ahead and skip right on by because that's this book in a nutshell.
At first I liked this book, because in true Phaedra Patrick fashion, we have a woman who needs to find her backbone (our main character Olivia). The cover of this book is awesome and I was hoping for a redemption for Liv and some great bookish references. But when all is said and done I got a plot that has been done before, and a woman who gets away with a lot and doesn't really seem to learn anything in the process. I didn't have any buy in for the whys and hows of this book and I really hated Liv's husband and how much he alternately expected from her and hid from her and how much she took it.
I've enjoyed some of Patrick's books in the past for their heartwarming plots, but this is not one of them. I listened to the audiobook and give a star to the narrator Katy Sobey who did a fantastic job narrating. In the future if the author is going to borrow so much of a plot maybe don't do it from a book that everyone and their grandma and their neighbor's book club have read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
At first I liked this book, because in true Phaedra Patrick fashion, we have a woman who needs to find her backbone (our main character Olivia). The cover of this book is awesome and I was hoping for a redemption for Liv and some great bookish references. But when all is said and done I got a plot that has been done before, and a woman who gets away with a lot and doesn't really seem to learn anything in the process. I didn't have any buy in for the whys and hows of this book and I really hated Liv's husband and how much he alternately expected from her and hid from her and how much she took it.
I've enjoyed some of Patrick's books in the past for their heartwarming plots, but this is not one of them. I listened to the audiobook and give a star to the narrator Katy Sobey who did a fantastic job narrating. In the future if the author is going to borrow so much of a plot maybe don't do it from a book that everyone and their grandma and their neighbor's book club have read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
June 9, 2022
Olivia (Liv) Green is no ordinary cleaner. She mixes her own organic solutions. I can just smell the lavender and the lemon. . . One of her clients is a reclusive author named Essie Starling. Liv has been a fan of Essie's heroine Georgia Rory since the first book was published decades ago. While cleaning in Essie's penthouse apartment, Liv dreams of being a writer herself. Her father, Grant Cooper, was an English Literature professor and he believed in his sweet pea. Liv may get to live her dream sooner than she expects. She may find herself getting a little carried away. She may just find herself. Is it any wonder that she is empowered by channeling her inner Georgia Rory? I could really relate to Liv's struggles to balance being a wife and mother with her new challenges. Also loved all the great titles mentioned throughout the book. A fantastic feel good read for booklovers.
Thank you to Park Row and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Park Row and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2022
Let’s start with good points: Great title! Cute cover! Interesting premise! 42-year-old Liv Green cleans offices and homes for a living, but books are her true passion. She loves to read and to listen to audiobooks, and her favorite client is none other than her favorite author, Essie Starling. Essie is an award-winning writer and her Georgia Rory series is still widely consumed today, despite her becoming reclusive in the last several years. When Essie suddenly passes away, Liv is given an amazing opportunity—finish Essie’s 20th novel while keeping her death a secret for the next 6 months, and she will be given a raise and also receive the inheritance willed to her. As she works on the book, she also works to uncover the past of the enigmatic Essie.
Disappointingly, that’s where the positives of the book end.
I wanted to like Liv and root for her. She’s a middle-aged working mom who feels neglected by her husband and grown children and unappreciated by her clients. She gave up on her writing dreams early on and decided to focus on family and more “practical� employment. Unfortunately, Liv is poorly developed as a character so it was difficult for me to feel anything for her.
First of all, Liv is dull. Her only personality trait seems to be that she loves reading. Throughout the novel, books and authors that Liv enjoy are constantly mentioned—after a while, it’s not even fun to recognize the names as a fellow bookworm, it just feels overdone. We get it, she reads a lot. Also, Liv seems overly attached to Essie and her legendary character Georgia, to the point that she wears Essie’s clothing and perfume or dresses like Georgia for inspiration and courage. I suppose readers are meant to infer that Liv has sacrificed so much of herself for the sake of others that books have become her only interest and outlet� but honestly, it was odd, sad, and a bit off-putting to me.
Secondly—there’s no way to say this nicely—Liv is alarmingly naive. She makes makes many questionable and irrational decisions while trying to learn more about Essie and also turn her own life around. For example, Liv RSVPs to an event in Essie’s name and then attends it herself and somehow doesn’t realize—or care?—that people actually expect to see the famous author. It’s frankly unbelievable that Liv would be this foolish. She didn’t go to university and hasn’t traveled much, but that doesn’t mean she should be clueless. She’s in her 40s and has worked full-time since she was a teenager—so she should have some common sense and intelligence. Could readers write off her recklessness as a way for her to cope with her grief and unhappiness? I suppose so but I don’t think Liv has earned that kind of trust and sympathy from the audience.
The supporting characters are even blander and more poorly fleshed out. Liv’s husband is horrible, with the only things in his favor are that he’s not abusive or unfaithful. He comes through for Liv in the end but it feels like too little too late. Also, there is a plot twist involving other characters at around the 85% mark that is meant to tie the whole book together, but they are written so flatly and the reveal is so preposterous that the narrative finally and fully lost steam for me there after dragging on for so long. The moment of realization and resulting lesson did not hold any emotional weight.
Sadly, I cannot recommend this book.
Disappointingly, that’s where the positives of the book end.
I wanted to like Liv and root for her. She’s a middle-aged working mom who feels neglected by her husband and grown children and unappreciated by her clients. She gave up on her writing dreams early on and decided to focus on family and more “practical� employment. Unfortunately, Liv is poorly developed as a character so it was difficult for me to feel anything for her.
First of all, Liv is dull. Her only personality trait seems to be that she loves reading. Throughout the novel, books and authors that Liv enjoy are constantly mentioned—after a while, it’s not even fun to recognize the names as a fellow bookworm, it just feels overdone. We get it, she reads a lot. Also, Liv seems overly attached to Essie and her legendary character Georgia, to the point that she wears Essie’s clothing and perfume or dresses like Georgia for inspiration and courage. I suppose readers are meant to infer that Liv has sacrificed so much of herself for the sake of others that books have become her only interest and outlet� but honestly, it was odd, sad, and a bit off-putting to me.
Secondly—there’s no way to say this nicely—Liv is alarmingly naive. She makes makes many questionable and irrational decisions while trying to learn more about Essie and also turn her own life around. For example, Liv RSVPs to an event in Essie’s name and then attends it herself and somehow doesn’t realize—or care?—that people actually expect to see the famous author. It’s frankly unbelievable that Liv would be this foolish. She didn’t go to university and hasn’t traveled much, but that doesn’t mean she should be clueless. She’s in her 40s and has worked full-time since she was a teenager—so she should have some common sense and intelligence. Could readers write off her recklessness as a way for her to cope with her grief and unhappiness? I suppose so but I don’t think Liv has earned that kind of trust and sympathy from the audience.
The supporting characters are even blander and more poorly fleshed out. Liv’s husband is horrible, with the only things in his favor are that he’s not abusive or unfaithful. He comes through for Liv in the end but it feels like too little too late. Also, there is a plot twist involving other characters at around the 85% mark that is meant to tie the whole book together, but they are written so flatly and the reveal is so preposterous that the narrative finally and fully lost steam for me there after dragging on for so long. The moment of realization and resulting lesson did not hold any emotional weight.
Sadly, I cannot recommend this book.
August 10, 2022
3.5
Cute read that, at times, didn’t seem to know what it wanted to be.
I loved the premise of a 40-something woman who craves change and self-fulfillment after raising two sons and putting her husband’s goals ahead of her own.
I loved the premise of a recluse writer whose chilly disposition hides deeper feelings.
I loved the premise of Liv delving into Essie’s past in order to find her own future.
But there was way too much going on and our heroine goes off the rails so much that it began to turn into something better suited for a TV movie.
Overall, I wanted to know more so it was compelling enough to read in one day. And the ending may have been the best of all!
Cute read that, at times, didn’t seem to know what it wanted to be.
I loved the premise of a 40-something woman who craves change and self-fulfillment after raising two sons and putting her husband’s goals ahead of her own.
I loved the premise of a recluse writer whose chilly disposition hides deeper feelings.
I loved the premise of Liv delving into Essie’s past in order to find her own future.
But there was way too much going on and our heroine goes off the rails so much that it began to turn into something better suited for a TV movie.
Overall, I wanted to know more so it was compelling enough to read in one day. And the ending may have been the best of all!
August 24, 2022
I’m always up for a book about book people! 😍
About the book: “The house cleaner of a famous author must carry out her employer's shocking last wishin this delightful new novel from beloved author Phaedra Patrick.�
I really enjoyed Phaedra Patrick’s, The Library of Lost and Found, a couple years back, and I’m happy to say The Messy Lives of Book People was just as enjoyable.
Liv Green is a housekeeper and mom of two. She dreams of becoming a writer, and she loves to read. Her new job is housekeeping for none other than her favorite author. The two form a friendship as Essie, the author, has become a recluse.
In a twist, Liv finds out she needs to finish a book for Essie. In doing so, she uncovers a secret you have to discover by reading this gem of a feel-good book. I adored Essie’s loves for reading and writing and how they were peppered throughout the story.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: and instagram:
About the book: “The house cleaner of a famous author must carry out her employer's shocking last wishin this delightful new novel from beloved author Phaedra Patrick.�
I really enjoyed Phaedra Patrick’s, The Library of Lost and Found, a couple years back, and I’m happy to say The Messy Lives of Book People was just as enjoyable.
Liv Green is a housekeeper and mom of two. She dreams of becoming a writer, and she loves to read. Her new job is housekeeping for none other than her favorite author. The two form a friendship as Essie, the author, has become a recluse.
In a twist, Liv finds out she needs to finish a book for Essie. In doing so, she uncovers a secret you have to discover by reading this gem of a feel-good book. I adored Essie’s loves for reading and writing and how they were peppered throughout the story.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: and instagram:
June 9, 2022
The Messy Lives of Book People by Phaedra Patrick is the story of two women whose paths and lives become surprisingly entwined. Surprising, because Liv Green and Essie Starling lead completely different lives. Liv is a married mother of two boys in their late teens. She works at three jobs as a cleaner to make ends meet. Essie is the reclusive author of a popular series of books who lives alone in a penthouse apartment. The relationship of these two women is at the heart of this charming novel. I must note that I don’t often read “charming� books but this one captured my interest from the very beginning. This is a story with a good, solid plot and the characters are well-drawn, exposing their flaws, their problems, their joys and their tribulations. Phaedra Patrick now has me as a fan and I look forward to reading her other novels. If you are looking for a good, simple yarn with a lot of heart, The Messy Lives of Book People would be a good choice. Highly recommended. Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing, NetGalley and the author for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2023
The Messy Lives of Book People by Phaedra Patrick
3 1/2 ⭐️’s
I really enjoyed reading this book, a fun story line and very interesting characters. I am definitely into reading about bookshops and books lately.
3 1/2 ⭐️’s
I really enjoyed reading this book, a fun story line and very interesting characters. I am definitely into reading about bookshops and books lately.
June 30, 2022
I really enjoyed this tale of burned out writer, Essie Starling & what happened to her as investigated by her writing "heir" - her cleaning lady & soon-to-be empty nester, Liv. Charming & very entertaining!!
December 29, 2022
I think I heard it said that this book is an ode to writers, writing, and books and the like, and that is the phrase I have had in my head, long before I remembered I had possibly heard it quoted. This book is really about how bestselling authors craft their works, fall in love with their characters, gather their inspiration, and transform other peoples lives as well as their own. And its a fiction novel, and one that is a name dropper. Our main character Olivia is reading the contemporary hits of the last five years, and these books are discussed and dropped often. I actually like seeing when my favorite writers post what they like to read and comment on one another's books. It makes us a whole community. The book was a great end of the year wrap-up, vacation read. And I read 80% of it in one shot early this morning.
This author Phaedra Patrick, just emerged on scene for me. Like its not a name I recognized, and wouldn't given it second thought, if I weren't reading this book. But she is the author of Arthur Pepper and the Curious Charms which is not only on my TBR, but is one of 100 books I am using for a challenge this year. And then oddly enough, another of her books, the Library of Lost and Found, also sits on my TBR. And then I saw her name advertising her two newer books, one that is set to come out, and a review of another. So friends, if this is not a known name to you, and perhaps it is. Let me do a book and writing loving author a favor - Friends, meet Phaedra Patrick.
This author Phaedra Patrick, just emerged on scene for me. Like its not a name I recognized, and wouldn't given it second thought, if I weren't reading this book. But she is the author of Arthur Pepper and the Curious Charms which is not only on my TBR, but is one of 100 books I am using for a challenge this year. And then oddly enough, another of her books, the Library of Lost and Found, also sits on my TBR. And then I saw her name advertising her two newer books, one that is set to come out, and a review of another. So friends, if this is not a known name to you, and perhaps it is. Let me do a book and writing loving author a favor - Friends, meet Phaedra Patrick.
June 4, 2022
4.5 Stars
This cover is irresistible to those who just want to cuddle books all day. And I was pleasantly surprised, because after the general plot set-up, I thought I was watching a train wreck about to happen. But no!! It was unpredictable and I cheered for the plucky characters the whole way through.
I adored this!
This cover is irresistible to those who just want to cuddle books all day. And I was pleasantly surprised, because after the general plot set-up, I thought I was watching a train wreck about to happen. But no!! It was unpredictable and I cheered for the plucky characters the whole way through.
I adored this!
January 24, 2022
(free review copy) A whimsical story about an author and her cleaner and secrets from the past. It had a nostalgic feel to it and I imagine that it will be a treat for those seeking a chaste, book-focused, gentle mystery.
June 23, 2022
Unfortunately, I found myself bored and not invested in the story. It had a strong beginning and I had high hopes that I was going to enjoy it, but it ended up falling flat for me.
June 8, 2022
It’s not that this is a bad book, it’s just that it’s too similar to Evelyn Hugo and it is pale in comparison. It tries to capture the mystery and magic of a reclusive writer but without the actual writer it’s weak and we aren’t invested in her secrets at all.
The story follows Liv who is a cleaner at the house of a reclusive writer, Essie Starling. When Essie dies and asks Liv to complete her last novel while under strict orders to not tell anyone of her death, Liv is put under great stress. Her life, her marriage and her professional dreams all start to flail and she has to quickly learn who Essie and what her secrets were in order to complete the novel.
The segues in this book are very very weak. Just because Liv couldn’t get the chapter on the character’s love right she decided to hunt down all of Essie’s old loves? Just because she wants to get away she jumps on a plane to Prague as Essie? The final reveal was similar as well. These unrealistic jumps made me lose interest. It’s possible if I’d never read Evelyn Hugo I would have enjoyed this a lot more.
The story follows Liv who is a cleaner at the house of a reclusive writer, Essie Starling. When Essie dies and asks Liv to complete her last novel while under strict orders to not tell anyone of her death, Liv is put under great stress. Her life, her marriage and her professional dreams all start to flail and she has to quickly learn who Essie and what her secrets were in order to complete the novel.
The segues in this book are very very weak. Just because Liv couldn’t get the chapter on the character’s love right she decided to hunt down all of Essie’s old loves? Just because she wants to get away she jumps on a plane to Prague as Essie? The final reveal was similar as well. These unrealistic jumps made me lose interest. It’s possible if I’d never read Evelyn Hugo I would have enjoyed this a lot more.
September 1, 2022
Liv Green is the housekeeper for reclusive bestselling author Essie Starling.
When Essie dies suddenly Liv is astonished to learn that Essie's last wish was for Liv to complete Essie's final novel. However there are conditions in place that must be met. This challenge reveals secrets which make this an enjoyable read with a clever plot.
When Essie dies suddenly Liv is astonished to learn that Essie's last wish was for Liv to complete Essie's final novel. However there are conditions in place that must be met. This challenge reveals secrets which make this an enjoyable read with a clever plot.
June 27, 2022
This was totally not the story I expected but it was still quite the enjoyable read!
The book people in the story are all connected and yes, their lives certainly are messy. I really loved the premise of the biggest fan, working as a housekeeper for her favorite author - and all the connections that transpire throughout the story. We see all sorts of bookish angles, including the author, the academic, the publisher, the publicist, the book binder, the reader, and even the journalist.... writing and reading from all angles all interwoven in one big messy story that all revolves around my favorite things... books..
It has an inspirational angle I wasn't expecting and I really enjoyed following Liv's growth from beginning to end - despite endless obstacles and uncovered secrets. A fun mystery, and a heartwarming story!
The book people in the story are all connected and yes, their lives certainly are messy. I really loved the premise of the biggest fan, working as a housekeeper for her favorite author - and all the connections that transpire throughout the story. We see all sorts of bookish angles, including the author, the academic, the publisher, the publicist, the book binder, the reader, and even the journalist.... writing and reading from all angles all interwoven in one big messy story that all revolves around my favorite things... books..
It has an inspirational angle I wasn't expecting and I really enjoyed following Liv's growth from beginning to end - despite endless obstacles and uncovered secrets. A fun mystery, and a heartwarming story!
February 17, 2024
DNF @ 25%
Well, there goes another New Year’s resolution! I was going to try not to DNF any books, and see how that worked out for me. But I just can’t with this one. I checked some of the negative reviews and many compared it to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo which I also didn’t care for.
Well, there goes another New Year’s resolution! I was going to try not to DNF any books, and see how that worked out for me. But I just can’t with this one. I checked some of the negative reviews and many compared it to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo which I also didn’t care for.
June 8, 2022
Not my first book by this author but likely my last. I just couldn’t feel the slightest connection with the main characters. Liv really came across with zero personality.
Successful, award winning author Essie Starling becomes a recluse for reasons not immediately disclosed. Essie is rather snarky and changes assistants like shoes, but the one constant in her life is her cleaning lady, Liv, with whom she forms a close relationship.
Why Liv ended up being a cleaning lady is unclear � her father was Literature professor after all.
It is as surprising to the reader as it is to Liv to be put in the position of keeping Essie’s death a secret until a certain date AND to complete Essie’s last manuscript.
All is explained in the end but it wasn’t enough to get me past 2-stars.
Successful, award winning author Essie Starling becomes a recluse for reasons not immediately disclosed. Essie is rather snarky and changes assistants like shoes, but the one constant in her life is her cleaning lady, Liv, with whom she forms a close relationship.
Why Liv ended up being a cleaning lady is unclear � her father was Literature professor after all.
It is as surprising to the reader as it is to Liv to be put in the position of keeping Essie’s death a secret until a certain date AND to complete Essie’s last manuscript.
All is explained in the end but it wasn’t enough to get me past 2-stars.
March 31, 2022
The Messy Lives of Book People
by Phaedra Patrick
Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row
Pub Date: May 31
Liv Green is happy to just clean the house of her fav writer, reclusive Essie Starling. When Essie unexpectedly dies, she leaves instructions for Liv: To keep her death secret, and to finish her famous series. Liv wonders, "Why me?" As she starts to write, she discovers an unexpected connection to Essie that sheds light on her decision.
A charming cozy mystery that gives a delightful escape when life gets too real. Such fun!
Thanks to the author, Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#TheMessyLivesOfBookPeople #Phaedra Patrick #HarlequinTradePublishingParkRow
#NetGalley #womensfictionnovel #reclusivewriterfiction #cozymystery #bookstagramcommunity
by Phaedra Patrick
Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row
Pub Date: May 31
Liv Green is happy to just clean the house of her fav writer, reclusive Essie Starling. When Essie unexpectedly dies, she leaves instructions for Liv: To keep her death secret, and to finish her famous series. Liv wonders, "Why me?" As she starts to write, she discovers an unexpected connection to Essie that sheds light on her decision.
A charming cozy mystery that gives a delightful escape when life gets too real. Such fun!
Thanks to the author, Harlequin Trade Publishing, Park Row, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#TheMessyLivesOfBookPeople #Phaedra Patrick #HarlequinTradePublishingParkRow
#NetGalley #womensfictionnovel #reclusivewriterfiction #cozymystery #bookstagramcommunity
March 8, 2022
Ah, this book spoke to me on so many levels! It's about a woman who dreams of becoming a writer and who eventually finds a way, against all odds. It's a charming and compelling story populated by unforgettable characters. It also underlines home truths about the nitty-gritty of following your dream, of floundering and failing and rethinking until at last something begins to work. A beautiful book ~ wise, heartfelt and full of hope.
June 10, 2022
3.5 Stars I didn't connect as much with this book as I had with her others.
June 24, 2022
Phaedra Patrick does a terrific job with a fabulous plot about a famous, recluse writer who asks her assistant to help with her 20th book.
Mystery, intrigue, relationships, and life journeys create an exciting page turner!
Mystery, intrigue, relationships, and life journeys create an exciting page turner!
June 1, 2022
Olivia Green cleans houses and businesses for a living. Her husband owns a not so profitable paper company with his family. They have two boys who will both be in university this year. They can barely make ends meet. They are a family; they share game night together and family meals. Even though Liv has always had her own set of dreams as to what she wanted in life, family has always taken precedence.
Liv especially enjoys working for Essie Starling, the best-selling author of the Georgia Rory adventure series which Essie is in the process of writing the twentieth book. Essie is known to be difficult, but Liv takes her with a grain of salt grateful for the opportunity to be around such a renowned author. Liv is an avid reader. You see, secretly, Liv has always wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember. At 10 years old her late father who was an English professor told her she had talent. But, as you know, sometimes life has a way of putting some dreams on the backburner.
Then, Essie suddenly dies, and Liv discovers to her amazement in her will she chose her to finish the final Georgia Rory adventure. But, there are stipulations such as no one can know Essie has died until the publication date of the book, and absolutely no one can know Liv completed the work. Not understanding what was in Essie’s mind, she reluctantly takes on the responsibility of completing the book. The money could certainly come in handy. Unfortunately, she must lie to everybody including her husband Jake as to what she is doing. But with this opportunity comes way more questions than answers.
As Liv reads what Essie has already written, she just can’t get a feel for who the characters really are and where they are going. So, as she begins her work of figuring out where Essie had been going with the story, she soon has more questions than answers. In order to grasp the characters as they are now, she feels the only way she can do Essie’s work justice is to go back in time and find out what exactly Essie was thinking when she created the first story. What were the mysteries lurking in the background of these developed characters?
This idea takes Liv on her own adventure into Essie’s past, the people she knew, who worked for her, who she married and a mysterious love of her life. Liv discovers Essie had many secrets. As the task and deadline quickly approach, Liv is overwhelmed with fear of not doing Essie or the characters justice. This all begins to take a toll on her marriage as well. She begins to see a different side of herself. One which she never knew was inside her.
Then suddenly, Liv discovers Essie’s secrets. These secrets will pull Liv’s and her family’s lives in a direction she never saw coming. All she thought she wanted to do was make Essie proud of her. but it turned into something so much more.
The Messy Lives of Book People is a heartwarming, uplifting story about, well…books, those who read them, those who write them and those who wish they could. But the lesson learned from the story is this, Love is the glue which holds the writer’s and the readers of books together. No matter who you are.
Thank you #NetGalley #ParkRow #PhaedraPatrick #TheMessyLivesofBookPeople for the advanced copy.
Liv especially enjoys working for Essie Starling, the best-selling author of the Georgia Rory adventure series which Essie is in the process of writing the twentieth book. Essie is known to be difficult, but Liv takes her with a grain of salt grateful for the opportunity to be around such a renowned author. Liv is an avid reader. You see, secretly, Liv has always wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember. At 10 years old her late father who was an English professor told her she had talent. But, as you know, sometimes life has a way of putting some dreams on the backburner.
Then, Essie suddenly dies, and Liv discovers to her amazement in her will she chose her to finish the final Georgia Rory adventure. But, there are stipulations such as no one can know Essie has died until the publication date of the book, and absolutely no one can know Liv completed the work. Not understanding what was in Essie’s mind, she reluctantly takes on the responsibility of completing the book. The money could certainly come in handy. Unfortunately, she must lie to everybody including her husband Jake as to what she is doing. But with this opportunity comes way more questions than answers.
As Liv reads what Essie has already written, she just can’t get a feel for who the characters really are and where they are going. So, as she begins her work of figuring out where Essie had been going with the story, she soon has more questions than answers. In order to grasp the characters as they are now, she feels the only way she can do Essie’s work justice is to go back in time and find out what exactly Essie was thinking when she created the first story. What were the mysteries lurking in the background of these developed characters?
This idea takes Liv on her own adventure into Essie’s past, the people she knew, who worked for her, who she married and a mysterious love of her life. Liv discovers Essie had many secrets. As the task and deadline quickly approach, Liv is overwhelmed with fear of not doing Essie or the characters justice. This all begins to take a toll on her marriage as well. She begins to see a different side of herself. One which she never knew was inside her.
Then suddenly, Liv discovers Essie’s secrets. These secrets will pull Liv’s and her family’s lives in a direction she never saw coming. All she thought she wanted to do was make Essie proud of her. but it turned into something so much more.
The Messy Lives of Book People is a heartwarming, uplifting story about, well…books, those who read them, those who write them and those who wish they could. But the lesson learned from the story is this, Love is the glue which holds the writer’s and the readers of books together. No matter who you are.
Thank you #NetGalley #ParkRow #PhaedraPatrick #TheMessyLivesofBookPeople for the advanced copy.
November 18, 2022
THE MESSY LIVES OF BOOK PEOPLE
Phaedra Patrick
Well, I have never read anything by this author and I don't see myself returning for a second try. I had to read this one almost twice because I kept losing my place. I was just so disengaged and disinterested that I could not get involved. I don't know if this was the book or me, but I usually love anything to do with books, I mean look at the cover! It is adorable.
The main character is Liv Green who cleans offices and homes but loves books and was been chosen by one of her clients, Essie Starling. Essie has suddenly passed away (lucky lady) but thought that Live would be perfect to complete her book... She was ill, so the house cleaner would be her first choice. The publisher is going to withhold the death until the book is done and Liv will be rewarded when the book is done.
Liv is just a working mom with grown kids and is taken for granted by everyone.. she is a doormat and I am exhausted with these beaten-down characters who are incompletely drawn. Her greatest attraction is that she likes to read, NO JOKE.. that was all... I almost fell asleep. In fact, I did several times. Some of the things that Liv does are just silly, not silly but unrealistic. I hated Liv's husband, and almost everyone else.. the book was just dullish.
Yuck.
2 stars
Happy Reading!
Phaedra Patrick
Well, I have never read anything by this author and I don't see myself returning for a second try. I had to read this one almost twice because I kept losing my place. I was just so disengaged and disinterested that I could not get involved. I don't know if this was the book or me, but I usually love anything to do with books, I mean look at the cover! It is adorable.
The main character is Liv Green who cleans offices and homes but loves books and was been chosen by one of her clients, Essie Starling. Essie has suddenly passed away (lucky lady) but thought that Live would be perfect to complete her book... She was ill, so the house cleaner would be her first choice. The publisher is going to withhold the death until the book is done and Liv will be rewarded when the book is done.
Liv is just a working mom with grown kids and is taken for granted by everyone.. she is a doormat and I am exhausted with these beaten-down characters who are incompletely drawn. Her greatest attraction is that she likes to read, NO JOKE.. that was all... I almost fell asleep. In fact, I did several times. Some of the things that Liv does are just silly, not silly but unrealistic. I hated Liv's husband, and almost everyone else.. the book was just dullish.
Yuck.
2 stars
Happy Reading!
June 12, 2023
You can always find me attracted to any book that has the word “book� in the title. And this one is no different!
And…you can always count on this author for some interesting characters and a little bit of mystery.
Not the kind of murder mystery, mystery story � but enough of a story that makes you wonder how are these characters connected. Why did she do that � and how will this all work out in the end.
If you remember her previous books her characters in, “The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper� or “Rise and Shine Benedict Stone� you know quirky or loveable, or endearing come to mind.
In this story, Liv is your unlikely heroine. Not that she is having to slay dragons � but, she is given a rather hefty task. And in so doing, something amazing happens for her in the end.
Self-discovery?
I leave it to you to find out. Enjoy.
And…you can always count on this author for some interesting characters and a little bit of mystery.
Not the kind of murder mystery, mystery story � but enough of a story that makes you wonder how are these characters connected. Why did she do that � and how will this all work out in the end.
If you remember her previous books her characters in, “The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper� or “Rise and Shine Benedict Stone� you know quirky or loveable, or endearing come to mind.
In this story, Liv is your unlikely heroine. Not that she is having to slay dragons � but, she is given a rather hefty task. And in so doing, something amazing happens for her in the end.
Self-discovery?
I leave it to you to find out. Enjoy.
June 20, 2022
I had to close my eyes while reading parts of "The Messy Lives of Book People," by Phaedra Patrick.
OK. I didn't actually close my eyes, but I certainly wanted to as Liv, the cleaner who once dreamed of being a writer, makes questionable choices. The author's decision to make a sudden romantic detour that threatened to upend Liv's life didn't help. I seriously nearly stopped reading.
Liv has had a job cleaning her favorite author's apartment for three years. Suddenly, the reclusive author has a much bigger job for Liv. There are complications. We're supposed to believe that Liv is growing confidence and into her own as she encounters these complications. Nope. Some of her choices are downright ridiculous, not to mention unethical.
Don't get me started about what happened to the author's awards shelf. Just close your eyes and weep.
OK. I didn't actually close my eyes, but I certainly wanted to as Liv, the cleaner who once dreamed of being a writer, makes questionable choices. The author's decision to make a sudden romantic detour that threatened to upend Liv's life didn't help. I seriously nearly stopped reading.
Liv has had a job cleaning her favorite author's apartment for three years. Suddenly, the reclusive author has a much bigger job for Liv. There are complications. We're supposed to believe that Liv is growing confidence and into her own as she encounters these complications. Nope. Some of her choices are downright ridiculous, not to mention unethical.
Don't get me started about what happened to the author's awards shelf. Just close your eyes and weep.
May 27, 2023
Truly Messy
OMG! What a crazy reading ride! About halfway through the book I was ready to give up on it until I looked at the title again. It makes no pretenses about being anything other than messy. And messy it was.
Now that I’ve set that up, I need to tell you the writing is exceptional. The pace of the book is also fantastic.
As I mentioned, it was well written, and it was the characters that made it special. Is a character based novel that didn’t have scenic writing. The characters were fantastic.
I had to recommend. Be ready for a crazy ride!
OMG! What a crazy reading ride! About halfway through the book I was ready to give up on it until I looked at the title again. It makes no pretenses about being anything other than messy. And messy it was.
Now that I’ve set that up, I need to tell you the writing is exceptional. The pace of the book is also fantastic.
As I mentioned, it was well written, and it was the characters that made it special. Is a character based novel that didn’t have scenic writing. The characters were fantastic.
I had to recommend. Be ready for a crazy ride!
March 12, 2022
A shy, unassuming cleaner fulfills the last wishes of a famous, reclusive author in Phaedra Patrick's charming new novel.
Forty-two-year-old Olivia "Liv" Green has lived a safe, conventional life as a dutiful wife, a caring mother of two grown children, and a hardworking cleaner to reclusive author Essie Starling. But Liv has always longed for something more out of life, more adventure, like her childhood literary hero, Georgia Rory, from Essie's famous series of books. After all, her husband spends long hours at the family business, her children have grown up and left the nest, and she still clings to her childhood dream of becoming a writer, as encouraged by her late father, an English professor.
So when Essie, on her deathbed, requests that Liv finish the final novel in her famous Georgia Rory series, Liv is equally thrilled and terrified. More importantly, why did Essie choose her for the task?
As Liv struggles to pen the perfect ending to Georgia Rory's story, she also uncovers the mysteries of Essie's enigmatic past, including the great love of Essie's life. Liv, in turn, gains the courage to step outside the confines of her conventional life to become the writer she always longed to be.
This was a delightful book, juxtaposing the lives of two very different women: a humble cleaner and a reclusive, wealthy author. Liv is a likable, kindhearted protagonist; the reader can't help but root for her as she struggles to overcome her fears and finish Essie's final novel. The deceased Essie's spirit is very much alive throughout the story as Liv unearths the mysteries--and contradictions--of this complex woman's past. And complex she is: there are many gray areas to Essie Starling's character, both sympathetic and unsavory, causing the reader to think and rethink how they perceive her and her final actions. In closing, the scene where Liv visits Essie's college apartment was particularly touching and beautifully summed up the novel's overarching themes.
Phaedra Patrick has given us another lovely novel to add to our libraries.
Thank you to NetGalley, Park Row, and author Phaedra Patrick for an ARC of this novel. All opinions are my own.
Forty-two-year-old Olivia "Liv" Green has lived a safe, conventional life as a dutiful wife, a caring mother of two grown children, and a hardworking cleaner to reclusive author Essie Starling. But Liv has always longed for something more out of life, more adventure, like her childhood literary hero, Georgia Rory, from Essie's famous series of books. After all, her husband spends long hours at the family business, her children have grown up and left the nest, and she still clings to her childhood dream of becoming a writer, as encouraged by her late father, an English professor.
So when Essie, on her deathbed, requests that Liv finish the final novel in her famous Georgia Rory series, Liv is equally thrilled and terrified. More importantly, why did Essie choose her for the task?
As Liv struggles to pen the perfect ending to Georgia Rory's story, she also uncovers the mysteries of Essie's enigmatic past, including the great love of Essie's life. Liv, in turn, gains the courage to step outside the confines of her conventional life to become the writer she always longed to be.
This was a delightful book, juxtaposing the lives of two very different women: a humble cleaner and a reclusive, wealthy author. Liv is a likable, kindhearted protagonist; the reader can't help but root for her as she struggles to overcome her fears and finish Essie's final novel. The deceased Essie's spirit is very much alive throughout the story as Liv unearths the mysteries--and contradictions--of this complex woman's past. And complex she is: there are many gray areas to Essie Starling's character, both sympathetic and unsavory, causing the reader to think and rethink how they perceive her and her final actions. In closing, the scene where Liv visits Essie's college apartment was particularly touching and beautifully summed up the novel's overarching themes.
Phaedra Patrick has given us another lovely novel to add to our libraries.
Thank you to NetGalley, Park Row, and author Phaedra Patrick for an ARC of this novel. All opinions are my own.
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