I have had ‘Way Back’ by Sara Cox for a little while, and as I know Sara enjoys reading I thought I would give her novel a go. I mean ‘Between the Covers’ is one of my favourite shows, and the ‘BBC Radio 2 Book Club’ is one of my go to podcasts.
I have to admit that despite the fact I probably am a little cautious when it comes to celebrity authors (rightly or wrongly), I did rather enjoy it. This storytelling definitely has the voice of Sara Cox running through it, which I think was actually what made it enjoyable for me. There was warmth and humour throughout the story, and the characters were rather good fun. And, it has been a while since I have read a book that had me laughing out loud and crying with moments of each other.
Josie is at a crossroads in her life: her marriage has come to an end and she is OK with that but as her daughter has also left home she is not really sure what to do next. When her childhood home comes up for sale she makes a shift in her life, to having a go at being a farmer, just like her beloved Dad. Along the way it leads her to reflect on her past, and create a future, both of which may not be quite what she expects.
This was an enjoyable read, and would make a great holiday read for those of us who may be considering what to pop on our summer reading lists. Although, I can’t promise you won’t potentially shed a tear or two – as Josie explores her past. But there is so much fun in this book too, who knew a cattle auction could sound like so much fun. Or that you would become so invested in the pig who also joins the farm life with Josie.
‘Thrown’ is also on my shelf, so I think it may get bumped up the tbr pile as I plan my summer reads, as I hope it will bring the same level of joy when I read it.