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stuckinthebook 's review for:

The Staycation by Michele Gorman
4.0

This book couldn't be more relevant. Across the country, due to cancelled flights and holidays because of Covid-19, most people are having to find somewhere in the UK to spend their summer holiday. Some are even camping in their own back garden as a way of experiencing their own 'staycation'.

So when Michele Gorman contacted me about her new release, I couldn't believe my luck. Not only do I get to read an advanced copy of a highly anticipated summer read, but I also got the chance to experience my own staycation.

What I loved about this book is the contrast of characters. One mother is so organised and has her own beloved labelling machine and trip itinerary, whereas the other mum just about gets her children to school on time and never has any time to herself.

It really made me laugh how Sophie and her family got the great end of the stick; staying in a gorgeous cottage up north with its own farm and quaint village high street, whereas Harriet and her family ended up staying in one the messiest houses in the middle of London which was also home to a python named Spot.

There are some really funny moments in this book, and I loved how more of the characters' stories were revealed as the story went on. I really loved getting to know both Harriet and Sophie, but I definitely warmed more to Sophie. She was doing her very best and I felt sorry for her. Her husband was a condescending jerk and I just wanted to give Sophie a huge hug.

I really enjoyed the story and it ironically helped take my mind off what is happening in the world right now. Definitely a great easy read and I could easily see it being made into a film!