"While writing this book, I reflected a lot on longevity, loyalty, and partnership."
That statement really summed up the essence of this story for me.
Dan and Sylvie were at that stage in their relationship where they could finish each other's thoughts and predict what each would order at restaurants, but after being told by the doctor that they have 68 more years of marriage to look forward to, they began to worry about their future together. Thus, Project Surprise Me was born. However, in an effort to surprise each other, they may have uncovered some flaws and secrets in their marriage that they were unaware of.
Surprise Me had many of Kinsella's signature elements present. There was a lot of humor, warmth, and the everyday chaos of life. As with most of her novels, we had that "serious" part, but I will say, this one took me by surprise, because it was quite a weighty issue she included in the story, but this did not dominate the story the story for me.
My interest was won by all the wonderful characters Kinsella jammed in this book. Each was a delight in their own way, and I really enjoyed getting to know them. A stand out for me, was Sylvie's neighbor, John. He did now have a huge role in this book, but he was just dropping all sorts of beautiful truth bombs, and I wanted to wrap myself up in his words.
Love is finding one person infinitely fascinating.
This book presented a realistic look at relationships. They can be hard, and require work and sacrifice if you want them to flourish. This is true, whether it be a romantic relationship, a friendship, or a familial relationship.
Vincit qui se vincit, keeps running through my head. She conquers who conquers herself.
I also loved Sylvie's growth. It's so important for me to see that people can still grow and change even after thirty. Sylvie may have started Project Surprise Me to keep that spark in her marriage alive, but really, it injected a new spark into her life. She learned so much about herself, and the kind of woman she could be. I wanted to cheer when she became Sylvie in Charge.
And let's give Kinsella a round of applause for that ending. She always writes these wonderful endings, that leave me with a huge smile on my face and joy in my heart.
Sophie Kinsella is on a short list of authors, who I vow, if they write it I will read it, because I can count on her to deliver a humorous story with great characters, depth, and a lot of heart.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
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