At the beginning of the year, I had a few goals that I intended to achieve before the year ended. The year started out well until it seems, someone decided to start playing the game 'Jumanji' and is losing. Plans had to be cancelled and some of the goals I set had to be put on hold. Fortunately, there were a few that could be worked on. One of these goals was to do some more reading. In my quest to increase my leisurely reading I came across a book by Colleen Coleman, called "I'm Still Standing". I was drawn to the title first because it reminded me of the song. After reading the blurb I decided to buy it and give it a read. The book was an interesting read and it led me to another book "Don't Stop Me Now". This was the first book published by Colleen.
Summary
The story follows Poppy Bloom, a PHD graduate whose plans were blighted when she was denied the fellowship she had worked hard to achieve. She is forced to move back home with her mother and stepfather. Poppy finds out that she was betrayed by the two people she loved the most. After reconnecting with her oldest friend she realizes that life off-campus continued, and her peers were now married with children. Poppy lands an amazing internship and scores a new love interest. Things are going well but life is filled with unexpected situations and Poppy has an important decision to make.
My Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It gave me a mixture of emotions, while reading I felt joy, anger and even a few hints of sadness. I've read a number of "laugh-out-loud romantic comedy books recently, but this one actually made me laugh out loud a number of times. I was annoyed when Poppy lost the fellowship and was happy to see her find herself and her place in the world. I even cheered her on when she finally mustered the courage to stand up for herself. Poppy may have had some seemingly far-fetched moments of luck. However, this led me to believe that it is possible for things to work out for regular people.
The book highlighted the importance of support from loved ones. Poppy had a strong support system. Her mother, stepdad and 'ex-dad' in his own way, her teammates, co-workers, and boyfriend. They all rallied around Poppy when she needed them. Through their support Poppy finally started to adjust to the world off-campus and took control of her life.
Lessons I Learnt
There were a few takeaways from this book, things don't always go as planned but that doesn't mean we should throw in the towel. Always have a backup plan and if possible, a backup plan for the backup plan. Cherish the people who stand by you and support you even in your lowest moments. And finally, job centres suck... I'm kidding about that last one but I'm sure Poppy's experience was an unforgettable one.
Conclusion
"Don't Stop Me Now" is nothing if not inspirational. This book is great for anyone who loves happy endings. It is perfect for rainy days or just for when you need a quick escape. It had me hooked from the very first chapter. Colleen Coleman is an exceptional writer. I have read all her books so far and this one is my favourite.
I give it a 4.5/5 just because I wish it was a bit longer. If you would like to give this book a read, please consider purchasing it through my Amazon Affiliate link. I will earn a small commission if you purchase the book through this link.
What's on your reading list? Tell me in the comments below.
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19 Comments
Hi Guys, I hope you enjoyed the review. If you would like to read the book yourself, please consider purchasing it from amazon through my affiliate link below.
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I’ve been on a serious rom-com book kick lately, so this review was precisely what I needed! I can’t wait to get my hands on it soon. I’ve added it to my TBR for the time being. Thanks for posting your thoughts.
I’m happy you found it useful. Thanks for reading!
“Don’t Stop Me Now” sound like my type of read. Im intrigued that Poppy and I share the feeling of initial disappointment after achieving a PhD and not having life go exactly as you planned. Thanks for bringing this book to my attention.
I can only imagine that feeling but look how far you’ve come since then. It just proves that things do work out for regular people.
I rarely read fiction books, I prefer self-developement books. But I think I’ll put it on my list.
I understand, thanks for reading!
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a funny fiction book. So, this was a refreshing recommendation. I’ll definitely keep this series in mind.
You will not be disappointed. Thank you for reading!
This sounds like a fun read! We could all use a bit of escapism at the moment. Definitely adding it to my ever-growing TBR list!
Ikr! It was definitely fun to read. Thank you!
I’m always looking for books that give hope and shares struggles. Her struggles sound eerily similar to mine. I will definitely add this book to my list! Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Same here, I think that is why I enjoy Colleen’s novels. Each of the protagonists in her books experience different struggles but then they overcome them. Thanks for reading!
I added Don’t Stop Me Now to my list! Currently, I have a reading list that is a mile long! I just graduated, so I actually have time to my own reading. Right now, Know My Name by Chanel Miller is next on my list!
That’s amazing, I’m trying to build my list now. Thanks for the suggestion!
Great review! It sounds like an inspiring book to read and I love happy endings. Thank you for sharing and I will have to add this to my list of books to read.
It was, thanks for reading!
This sounds like a book I would really enjoy as well – thanks for sharing. Adding to my reading list! -)
I think you would too. Thank you!