May 88 min read

Book Review: Very Very Lucky by Amanda Prowse - A Heartwarming Tale of Friendship and Self-Discovery

Updated: Oct 23

Introduction

What if the most meaningful friendships came from the most unexpected places? Amanda Prowse’s Very Very Lucky is a poignant and life-affirming exploration of the struggles of modern life, the power of serendipity, and the profound impact of unlikely friendships. Known for her deeply emotional and relatable storytelling, Prowse brings us a novel brimming with authenticity, warmth, and a keen understanding of what it means to live fully despite the odds.

Set against the backdrop of everyday challenges, Very Very Lucky follows two protagonists at different stages of their lives who become unlikely friends—a harried mother and a grieving elderly widower. Through their journey, Prowse explores the threads that bind human experiences across generations, leaving readers with a powerful reminder of the importance of connection, self-discovery, and cherishing the simple moments in life. Whether you're a fan of Prowse's previous works or a newcomer to her heartwarming stories, this is one read you won't want to miss.

Book Summary

At the heart of Very Very Lucky are two unforgettable characters: Emma Fountain and Thurston.

Emma is the embodiment of modern life—stretched thin by the demands of family, career, and societal expectations. She is a mother, a wife, and a career woman, and yet she constantly feels the pressure to balance all of these roles perfectly. Emma finds herself in a relentless whirlwind of responsibilities, where moments for herself are rare luxuries. Her story speaks to many, especially those who have experienced the exhaustion of trying to be everything for everyone.

In contrast, we have Thurston, an elderly man grieving the loss of his beloved wife, Mary, with whom he shared 62 beautiful years of marriage. Thurston's struggle to find purpose in his days after Mary’s death is depicted with heart-wrenching honesty. He is a character imbued with deep sorrow, longing, and the quiet wisdom that comes with a life well-lived.

Their worlds collide in an unexpected moment that sparks an unlikely friendship—one that brings a wave of change into both their lives. Emma begins to see her life from a new perspective, learning the importance of prioritizing her own needs, while Thurston finds purpose once more, rekindling a spark of joy he thought he'd lost forever. The value of intergenerational relationships shines brightly through their story, and readers are reminded of the powerful healing effect of human connection.

Author's Style and Craft

Amanda Prowse's writing style in Very Very Lucky is infused with the warmth and authenticity she is known for. Her prose is accessible yet profound, making readers feel like they are sitting down with a close friend who understands their innermost thoughts. Prowse masterfully weaves a narrative that is both introspective and engaging, ensuring that the story never loses its emotional pulse.

The narrative is told in alternating perspectives, switching between Emma and Thurston’s points of view. This choice allows readers to connect deeply with both characters, understanding the stark contrast between their lives and witnessing how they influence each other’s growth. The dialogue is rich, natural, and often infused with humor—even during the most poignant scenes—which adds a comforting levity to the story.

Pacing is another strength here; Prowse knows how to keep readers engaged without making the plot feel rushed. The moments of quiet reflection are balanced with moments of laughter, sorrow, and change, mirroring the rhythms of real life. The character development in particular shines through—Emma and Thurston feel like people we all know, or perhaps even parts of ourselves we have yet to explore.

Themes and Deeper Meaning

Rediscovery and Self-Realization are central themes in Very Very Lucky. Both Emma and Thurston find themselves at a crossroads, where they must decide whether to continue down their current paths or make significant changes. Emma, overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life, learns to slow down and prioritize her happiness, while Thurston finds ways to live beyond his grief. This idea of rediscovery reminds readers that it’s never too late to change—that new opportunities can be just around the corner, waiting to be embraced.

The Healing Power of Friendship is another prominent theme that makes Very Very Lucky a memorable read. Emma and Thurston’s relationship is a testament to how powerful friendships can be, even when formed under unlikely circumstances. Their bond allows them to share their griefs, joys, and vulnerabilities in a way that transforms them both for the better.

The book also touches on Grief and Resilience. Thurston's journey through his grief after the loss of his beloved wife is depicted with a sensitivity that allows readers to explore the subject without feeling overwhelmed. Prowse shows that while grief never truly leaves, there can be a path to finding hope again, especially through meaningful relationships.

Strengths

One of Very Very Lucky's greatest strengths is its emotional resonance. Amanda Prowse has an incredible ability to craft characters that feel undeniably real—individuals with strengths, flaws, fears, and joys that are easy to relate to. Whether it's Emma's struggle to find balance or Thurston's quiet despair, these emotions are conveyed with a rawness that touches the heart.

The novel's authentic portrayal of intergenerational relationships is also a highlight. Few books manage to convey the unique beauty of friendships formed between different age groups, and Prowse does it with grace and insight. Emma and Thurston’s bond serves as a refreshing reminder that wisdom and understanding are timeless, and that we can learn much from those outside our usual circles.

Finally, the humor in Very Very Lucky serves as an excellent counterbalance to the more somber elements of the story. Prowse understands the human experience’s duality—that life is not solely about our pain or our happiness, but about the interplay between the two. This humor provides a gentle light that keeps the narrative from becoming heavy.

Areas for Improvement

While Very Very Lucky is a delightful read, some readers might find the pace a little slow at times, particularly in the earlier chapters. The novel takes its time establishing Emma’s daily struggles, and while this pays off in terms of character development, it may require patience for those who prefer a faster pace.

Additionally, the predictability of the plot could be a drawback for some readers. The story of an unlikely friendship that transforms both people’s lives is not necessarily new, and while Prowse’s take is heartfelt and well-executed, those looking for unexpected twists and surprises might find the story somewhat conventional.

Another area that could have been expanded is Thurston’s backstory. While his grief is depicted beautifully, readers are given only a glimpse into his life before losing Mary. More insight into their marriage and his previous life would have enriched his character even further.

Comparative Analysis

In comparison to Amanda Prowse’s other novels, Very Very Lucky maintains her signature focus on complex relationships and emotional journeys. It bears similarities to books like The Girl in the Corner or The Light in the Hallway, where Prowse explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. However, what sets Very Very Lucky apart is its unique focus on intergenerational friendship, which offers a refreshing perspective on connection and healing.

For readers who have enjoyed novels by Jojo Moyes or Cecelia Ahern, Prowse’s latest work will resonate deeply. It shares a similar warmth, emotional insight, and focus on finding light even in the darkest of times. Like Moyes’ Me Before You, it balances humor with heartbreak, leaving readers both smiling and in tears.

Target Audience

Very Very Lucky will appeal to readers who love contemporary fiction that focuses on deep character exploration and emotional growth. It is perfect for those who enjoy stories about unexpected friendships, navigating personal challenges, and finding joy amidst sorrow. Fans of women’s fiction, particularly those who appreciate uplifting, reflective stories, will find much to love here.

There are content warnings for themes of grief and emotional struggle, as well as mentions of caregiving stress, which could be triggering for some readers. However, these themes are handled with sensitivity and warmth, making them an integral part of the characters’ growth.

Personal Impact

Reading Very Very Lucky was like a comforting conversation with an old friend. It made me reflect on the value of human connection, the need to slow down, and the unexpected ways we can grow through relationships. The book left me with a sense of gratitude for the small moments in life and the people who make them worthwhile. It is a story that I believe will touch many readers, just as it did for me.

Conclusion

Amanda Prowse's Very Very Lucky is a beautifully told story of friendship, growth, and the human spirit. Through Emma and Thurston, readers are reminded that no matter where you are in life, it is never too late to seek change, find new purpose, and let yourself be lucky. This heartfelt novel encourages us to cherish those around us, embrace the little joys, and always remain open to unexpected blessings.

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FAQs

1. What is Very Very Lucky about?It’s about Emma and Thurston, an unlikely friendship that transforms both their lives, teaching them lessons of love, loss, and rediscovery.

2. Is Very Very Lucky suitable for all age groups?The book is most appropriate for adult readers due to its themes of grief, personal reflection, and life challenges.

3. How does Amanda Prowse portray grief in the novel?Grief is portrayed through Thurston’s journey, with honesty and sensitivity, depicting both sorrow and the hope of renewal.

4. Is this book similar to Amanda Prowse’s other novels?Yes, it shares themes of emotional growth and resilience, similar to her other works like The Light in the Hallway.

5. What is Amanda Prowse’s writing style like?Her style is warm, empathetic, and engaging, with a focus on relatable characters and emotional depth.

6. Does the book have a happy ending?Without giving too much away, the ending is hopeful and uplifting, though it might be seen as too neatly wrapped up for some readers.

7. How does this book compare to Amanda Prowse’s other novels?Very Very Lucky is more introspective than some of Prowse's other works, focusing deeply on the internal journey of self-acceptance and understanding.

8. Does the book deal with heavy themes?Yes, it touches on introspection, marriage struggles, and re-evaluating life’s purpose, but it does so with warmth and humor, making it an emotionally enriching read.

9. What is the tone of the novel?The tone is reflective, hopeful, and warm, balanced with light humor to make even heavy themes approachable.

10. Where can I find more of Amanda Prowse’s books?You can check out Amanda Prowse's official website or visit her books on Goodreads for more information on her novels. more information on her novels.

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