71 Comments
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EO's avatar

It really is so beautifully written and brilliant ❤️

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HW's avatar

Esther, will it eventually come out as an audiobook? If so, will it be you reading it?

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Whining Speccy's avatar

I really enjoyed reading this book. I found it gentle and intelligent.

I also found myself really wanting to help the main character. I really cared about her and I liked her niece too (both brilliantly named).

It’s a really warm, entertaining read and will definitely appeal to Spikers.

ps…I was absolutely desperate to wash those trainers too 😀😀😀

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Lisa Eveleigh's avatar

.,.. a ps. aka GOD, I CAN'T BELIEVE I DIDN'T SAY THIS

Esther has graciously agreed to be interviewed about her debut novel at (my curated) Peasenhall Literary Festival, and will be appearing on the afternoon of Saturday 25th October. Peasenhall is in Suffolk. More info as and when, but save the date if you will be nearish!

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Lisa Eveleigh's avatar

Am one of the lucky ones to receive a proof and do DO please pre-order, because it IS the most wonderful, funny and moving novel. Have already told EC that I think she's pulled off something fantastically clever by writing something that feels fresh and contemporary, yet has universal and timeless themes. I couldn't love it more, or recommend it more highly.

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Raffaella  Barker's avatar

Well done. I will read , I will pre-order, and also I won’t mind how much you mention it and plug it and do your damnedest..this is is the dutiful and awkward dance that all authors have to do now -.as if actual publication was not a big enough deal - you are a compelling writer And I will

Love your book I am sure xxx

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Emma's avatar

This is why people use Amazon .. I went to pre order and it told me I’ve already done so in March. I know it’s an evil empire but it does have an upside for ‘menopausal can’t remember a thing’ me

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Alix's avatar

Sounds great as I love your substack! I’ve pre-ordered 😊

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Alison's avatar

I was lucky enough to read a draft and loved it. I read it in 2 evenings flat and like other readers, felt bereft when I was finished. It is quirky, clever, emotionally astute and really absorbing. Can’t wait to read the book and see how it is changed. I have pre-ordered too.

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Shruti Advani's avatar

Congratulations Esther ! Thank you to Barrie for the link to Bookshop - got Esther’s book coming to me in September and Consider Yourself Kissed more imminently .. feeling very efficient. Need a cuppa after magnificent multitasking ;)

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Denean's avatar

Does anyone know if requesting that your local library stocks it will help with numbers?

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Esther's avatar

god I don't know!! maybe? *visits every library*

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Jane's avatar

I volunteered to read a draft because Esther’s writing has been both a welcome distraction and a source of support down the years and through the travails of work,

marriage and health. Spikers: you will not be disappointed. It’s a big hit of her Substack wit and warmth. I finished the draft with a tear in my eye and I can’t wait for September to get my mitts on the final version.

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Kate's avatar

I read a draft last year, and loved it, and am also going to preorder!

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Rebecca's avatar

I loved my proof so much that I was distracted reading it and went to Nine Elms instead of Kennington, which is one of the worst things that can happen in South West London, and I wasn't even cross because it gave me more reading time.

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Lucy's avatar

Already preordered, says smuggins over here! Cannot wait Esther, I absolutely love The Spike and get such a thrill when you write a new post. Substack is full of a lot of writers that are kind of saying the same thing but yours really is such a welcome voice x

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Esther's avatar

excellent! I feel bad sometimes that I'm not writing THOSE Substack posts but I wouldn't know where to stay. Thank you Lucy Smugginson xxx

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Charlotte's avatar

I love love loved reading this - devoured as quick as I’ve ever read anything. Have pre ordered for all my friends to read. xxx

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