What a CUTE BOOK oh my gosh! Sometimes I like to just wander through my library suggestions and see what they have on offer. Especially lately, since I’ve been so poor at keeping up with new releases. I crave seeing what else I missed from before. I am so very glad that this book popped up on my radar. It was exactly the kind of bittersweet, poignant and charming book that I needed. Yes friends, pun definitely intended.

Arthur Pepper is very set in his ways, especially since the loss of the love of his life. His days are held together by the familiar, mundane tasks that he sets out for himself. Not a bad existence, to be sure. However the reader quickly realizes that Arthur isn’t happy in this little routine. It’s comfortable, but not exciting. It’s easy to follow, but not fulfilling. Lucky for him, one little charm bracelet is all it takes to set him off on a wild adventure.

The writing style here is just so easy to read, and following along with Arthur on his madcap adventures is honestly a blast. I giggled as he met new people and learned new things. I sobbed a bit as he shared stories about his old life, and his lovely wife. Most of all though, I found myself smiling at the fact that this story gave the reader so much to love about this man. I love character growth, and this book is absolutely chock full of it. While some of it feels a little out there in terms of plausibility, it’s so charming that I just accepted it and enjoyed it.

Highly recommend this if you’re looking for a read that is cozy and sweet, with a character who feels like they could be your best friend. It was a delight to read this, and I’ll be looking for more from Phaedra Patrick!