Such a collection of characters that make the story very enjoyable, each with their own little storylines that keep the pages turning. I enjoyed going on this adventure with them!

Thank you NetGalley, Judy Leigh and Boldwood Books for the ARC of Lil’s Bus Trip.
This is my personal review.
This was one bus trip I would have loved to be on with this group of people. It was a great mixture of people who had nothing but fun and friendship on their minds when the set out to discover Europe.
I wanted to stay with them at the end of the book to find out what was next in everyone’s life. The author did such a good job of combining all ages of characters that they all fit together and had the time of their lives.

I have been a fan of Judy’s work for a little while now. I have read everything that she has written to date and each time I finish her current book, I (im)patiently wait for her next book. I read the synopsis for ‘Lil’s Bus Trip’ and it certainly sounded like the sort of book I have to associate with Judy – a light hearted and fun read about love, life and friendships. Well ‘Lil’s Bus Trip’ was one hell of a read and then some, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading but more about that in a bit.
I absolutely ADORED the character of Lil and in fact I like her so much I want to adopt her as my Granny! Lil is a woman in her eighties, who may be old in body (although she probably wouldn’t agree) but she isn’t in spirit. She certainly doesn’t let anybody or anything hold her back. She is mother to a 65 year old woman called Cassie and Lil is a very good friend to her neighbour Maggie. Lil also likes to flirt with men and swapping banter with anybody she meets. An overseas trip is organised by a local pub and Lil thinks that this is just what she, Cassie and Maggie need, so she reserves places for all three of them. Lil is certainly a determined woman and she won’t take no for an answer. What follows is a tale full of fun, frolics, laughter and friendship.
It didn’t take me long at all to get into ‘Lil’s Bus Trip’. The fact that I saw Judy’s name on the cover of a book that I hadn’t read, was enough to grab my attention, the synopsis drew me in and the story within the covers of the book sealed the deal as it were. To say that reading ‘Lil’s Bus Trip’ became addictive is a massive understatement. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story and more about the shenanigans that the three ladies got up to. The pages turned increasingly quickly as I worked my way through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of the story and I had to say farewell to Lil and the other ladies. I found ‘Lil’s Bus Trip’ to be a delight to read.
‘Lil’s Bus Trip’ is superbly written but then I have found that to be true of all of Judy’s books to date. She has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Judy’s books felt more like a chat between friends than reading an actual book. I hope that make sense. Judy has a knack of creating such lovable characters that it is impossible to dislike them. In fact, I began to feel as though they had become friends of mine. I felt as though I was part of the story and that’s thanks to Judy’s superbly realistic and vivid storytelling. ‘Lil’s Bus Trip’ was a hoot to read. I started chuckling away to myself at the start of the book and I didn’t stop chuckling until long after I read the very last word on the very last page. This book did more to cheer me up than any medication possibly could.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Lil’s Bus Trip’ and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Judy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

There are so many reasons why I love Judy Leigh’s books – she creates the most wonderful characters (with a particularly special touch with those of more advanced years), wonderfully drawn situations and settings, a bit of travel and adventure (so much needed when we can’t do it for ourselves), always a little romance, and that perfect and elusive balance between plenty of laughs and moments of real poignancy that capture your heart.

The undoubted star of this book is Lil herself – 82 and living in a sheltered housing complex, full of life and mischief, not beyond flirting with the owner of the local cafe, looking for a little excitement, despairing a little at the closed-in life of her friend Maggie who’s entirely at the beck and call of her tv-watching husband. Lil lives alone, but 65 year old daughter Cassie isn’t far away, they have a lovely relationship, and she provides the practical and emotional support she needs – she’s a poet who regularly performs, with her banjo, in the local pubs and farther afield, happily sharing her home with supportive best friend Jamie.

When Lil hears about the minibus tour of Northern Europe being organised by The Jolly Weaver, she signs up all three of them for the trip – and they’re joined by the pub’s owner and his elderly father, some young friends from the pub’s five-a-side football team, and three slightly stuffy members of the local tennis club (in search of culture and gastronomic delights, rather than high jinks – but then again…) as they embark on their adventure. As they explore the delights of France, Belgium and the Netherlands, we get to know them all considerably better – every single one of them superbly drawn, with interesting back stories and developing storylines – as they grow closer and enjoy their time together.

This book really felt like taking a holiday with a group of friends – some of them take a little longer to warm to, some really surprise you – and I enjoyed every single moment, as they explore the sights, bond as a group, and discover things about themselves and others that give real depth to the story. The book is immense fun from beginning to end – some of the set pieces really are laugh-out-loud (particularly as they discover the more dubious delights of Amsterdam) – but with a strong focus on family and friendship, there are many times when it’s also deeply touching. There’s more than a touch of romance too, at both ends of the age spectrum – beautifully done, and a real endorsement that it really is never too late to find happiness where you least expect it.

It really is a quite wonderful ensemble piece – with a mixed bag of individuals where every reader will find someone to identify with and take to their heart, and so many moments to be enjoyed, filled with warmth, as they all embrace their big adventure. I absolutely loved it – very highly recommended to all.

Favorite Quotes:

Denise wrinkled her nose. ‘This is hardly a booze cruise, Cassie. I think it’s a mistake to imply that it is. While we’re enjoying the cultural richness of each place we visit, our interest in the alcohol is purely intellectual.’ She held up her beer, then took a deep draught. Her glass was almost empty.

Lil caught her breath. ‘Maggie, we’re in the middle of the red-light area.’ Maggie stopped and stared at her friend. ‘Oh, no – should we go back?’ ‘Why ever would we do that?’ ‘Someone might proposition us.’ Maggie was aghast with fear. Lil laughed. ‘I’m eighty-two and you’re only a few years younger, Maggie. We’d have more chance of being propositioned if we paid the clients.’

‘Fifty euros for fifteen minutes?’ Maggie marvelled. ‘And I’ve done it for nothing all my married life.’

Lil pressed her lips together, trying not to burst out laughing. It was most entertaining, the way others’ secret lives and liaisons were unfolding on this trip. Lil was enjoying it almost as much as her romance novels.


My Review:

What fun! Every time I pick up a book by this clever wordsmith I find a new favorite octogenarian. I want to be just like her Lil when I grow up, she is eighty-two years young and proudly and unapologetically reads “bonking books,” performs random raids acts of kindness, is up for all types of shenanigans, and flirts outrageously every morning with the much younger tattooed man who owns her favorite breakfast eatery.

The writing was well-honed and shrewdly paced with original and engaging storylines that were relatable and entertaining while packed with wry smirk-worthy humor. The book featured an interesting cast of oddly beguiling characters of various ages and walks of life from common to snooty while traveling together on a coach tour of Europe. I adore and revere this author’s skills as she covers all the feels with smart observations and keen perceptions while keeping a smile on my face during the vast majority of my perusal. Plus, she had me Googling a giggle-snort-worthy exchange between the elderly ladies involving a “posing pouch.”

EXCERPT: 'Cassie, do you think I'm too old?'

'For what?'

'For . . . everything. I've come on holiday; I'm enjoying myself, but - am I too old for all the other things? For a bit of love?'

'Of course not.' Cassie rolled over again; the bed springs creaked. 'None of us are too old, ever. There are some strange attitudes in the world about aging, as if we all suddenly become too far gone for the pleasures in life. I've seen many people over the years who were old at thirty-five, their lives dominated by poverty, misery and disease. And I know inspirational people older than I am - you're one of them - who don't let age hold them back.'

Lil sighed. 'Sometimes I think I'm still forty until I look in the mirror.'

'But you're full of life, Lil - and while you are alive, you can do anything your body will let you: travel, have new experiences, even love.'

ABOUT 'LIL'S BUS TRIP': When 82-year-old Lil decides to book herself, her 65-year-old daughter, Cassie, and her friend Maggie on a bus trip across Europe, she hopes for a little adventure to counteract the monotony of life.

Along with three members of the Salterley Tennis Club and the Jolly Weaver football team, whose ideas of a good time are rather different to Lil’s and strikingly at odds with each other’s, the merry band of travellers set out on their great adventure.

From moving moments on the beaches of Normandy, outrageous adventures in Amsterdam, to the beauty of Bruges and gastronomic delights of France, the holiday is just the tonic Lil, Maggie and Cassie needed.

And as the time approaches for them to head home, Lil makes an unexpected discovery - even in her advancing years, men are like buses – there isn’t one for ages then two come along at once. Is Lil ready to share her golden years, and can the ladies embrace the fresh starts that the trip has given them. Or is it just too late to change…

MY THOUGHTS: There have been some excellent books published recently about seniors living their lives to the full, and I was hopeful that this was going to be another. But, unfortunately, I found it a little too cheesy, a little too twee.

The idea and the intent were great, and I enjoyed it more than not, but Lil's Bus Trip was a read that I never really engaged with. I wanted to feel something for the characters, but it never happened. I wanted an entertaining and uplifting read, but I am sorry this just didn't do it for me.

This was an average read, and I was quite content to close the cover at the end and move on.

I am well aware that I am very much on my own with my feelings on Lil's Bus Trip, and that it may well be a book that you enjoy, so please check out a selection of the very many positive reviews.

⭐⭐.6

#LilsBusTrip #NetGalley

I: @judyrleigh @BookandTonic

T: @JudyLeighWriter @BoldwoodBooks

#contemporaryfiction

THE AUTHOR: Judy Leigh has lived all over the UK from Liverpool to Cornwall, but currently resides in Somerset. After teaching theatre, writing lyrics for a punk band and setting up Shakespeare Festivals, she completed an MA in Professional Writing.

She is a prolific writer, but when she is not at her computer you will find her on the beach, walking, doing yoga or splashing in the sea. She is also a Reiki healer, a vegan and an animal lover. She has three black cats and she enjoys live music, theatre and football.

DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Lil's Bus Trip by Judy Leigh for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.

For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com

This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage

This is an excellent book that moved me, made me laugh and kept me reading as I found it engrossing and entertaining.
It's a light read but it's also the story of a group of people of different ages, of their struggles and joy.
Lil is a great character, well rounded and relatable. You cannot help loving her, feeling for her hard life, and enjoying her antics.
I loved her and I loved Cassie, the free spirited daughter, and her lifestyle. Both share the same zest for life.
Even if they are my favorites all the characters, their stories, are interesting.
I loved the character development and how the author feels for the characters.
The plot is fast paced and gripping, the descriptions of the places are excellent and there's plenty of emotions.
Judy Leigh is an excellent author and this was my favorite astory.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

READ MY REVIEW

Cover: Whimsical, with a peculiar font. It might be unusual, but it fits with the general theme.

A whimsical cover for a whimsical story, that’s Lil’s Bus Trip in a nutshell. Leigh wrote a good little story: funny and witty in places, but with a poignant side too. Hopeful.

The MC, Lil, is an old lady who’s been able to overcome all the adversities of life, while her daughter, Cassie, is an adventurous spirit with a heart of gold. Together with a ragtag group, they embark on a trip to France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, a vacation that might be impromptu but it’s still well-deserved.

Old ladies on a vacation, what could happen? Well, a lot. Maggie, Lil’s friend, realizes something about herself and her marriage; Cassie can spread her wings a little further before accepting what has always been in front of her. And Lil? You’ll find out.

The supporting cast of characters is interesting, and each of them has a distinctive voice. Sue and Denise are maybe the ones I like better because they grow a lot throughout the book. Even Ken has a chance to redeem himself.

Lil’s Bus Trip is written in a fresh, entertaining style. A delightful novel with a finale that’s just heartwarming. If you like feel-good stories, you’re in for a treat.

This must be one of the funniest books I have read lately. When I read the synopsis, I was drawn in by what the books was about, two 'older' ladies; Lil who is 82 and daughter Cassie 65 on a minibus tour of France, Belgium and The Netherlands.

have to confess to loving Judy Leigh’s novels, and so it is with great anticipation that I am starting to read Lil’s bus trip. The anticipation – since I’m sure you are asking yourself about that – is about how to approach this undoubted gem. Should I stay up all night and binge read, lapping the words up greedily like the proverbial cat who’s got the cream – or can I manage a more measured approach; savouring each word, each sentence, like a favourite glass of good wine, or treasured chocolate? Will I demolish this indisputable luxury in one fell swoop, or can I ration the pleasure, in order to make it last longer, allowing me to revel in its glory? (Indeed, is this book a delicacy for me, or a luxury?)Time (and self control) will tell, but I hope that this time I can show some restraint and make the enjoyment last that little bit longer!

Unusually, I was really quite taken with the front cover of this novel. I loved the glorious WYSIWYG feel to it – overflowing with fun, colour and maybe a hint of romance, all enveloped in a fresh bright feel and an overwhelming sense of calm. I also felt incredibly drawn to the subject matter of the trip being embarked upon. I have always liked the idea of visiting the Normandy beaches, such are their historical draw; indeed in an ideal world, such a trip would be mandatory for European teenagers, from all the countries involved in WWII.

Octogenarian Lily is a wonderful character; a unicorn in a field of ponies; the type of person that persistently makes the world seem like a better place. I adored the fact that one of her supposed hobbies, was teasing Keith in the cafe! I have such a fondness for personalities that defy societal ‘norms’ and those character expectations that seem to exist alongside today’s contemporary fiction. Similarly I have the utmost respect for Judy Leigh’s writing and the way that she gives voice to her amazing, often quirky characters. I also love Judy’s effortless recognition that, reflecting the real world, not all literary heroines are slim, stunningly beautiful and under 30 years of age. In a corresponding fashion, not all men in books are of the hunky variety.

I was greatly saddened by Lil’s main memory of 1953. Things have certainly changed for the better since then, as society has woken up to its peoples needs. I found some of Lil’s memories of that year difficult to read; the way she was ostracised by her family – made to feel a lesser person. Full credit to Judy Leigh for broaching what can still be an emotive issue and for describing what really did happen to many women back then. The issue was undoubtedly handled with the respect that it deserved.

Nonetheless in the current day, Lil sounded pretty happy, living in her assisted living complex just across the road from the sea. She reminded me of my dear old Nan, in that respect. She always used to say of her pensioner life-style, that she had never had things so good. She reminded me a bit of my dear old Nan – she always did have the most marvellous outlook on life and I can but hope to emulate that outlook on life when I am in my eighties and nineties. As for Lil, she lives a pretty good life, with green foil wrapped triangular chocolates as her panacea. What’s not to love! I must admit to almost being able to palpably feel the electricity in the air, when Herman turned up for a surprise visit.

Cassie, Lil’s Daughter and Lil’s friend Maggie find themselves booked to go on a minibus tour around three countries in Europe, organised by the local pub landlord. What a unique plot, surely guaranteed to raise some laughs in this house! I did feel sad for Lil’s friend Maggie who seemed to have devoted her life to pandering to her Husband Brian’s every whim. The friends were discussing the impending bus trip bus trip and Maggie was saying how she couldn’t possibly go, in case Brian needed her for some spurious reason. I know of course that this is a work of fiction, but I just felt so acutely aware that for some women, being downtrodden and treated in this demeaning manner, is a completely normal way of life. I felt that the author treated the topic in a thoroughly sympathetic manner, and hopefully she will have helped to raise awareness of this kind of ill treatment. I was drawn out of my malaise, to the extent that I was chuckling rather loudly to myself, at the eventual agreed approach – that Maggie would just go on the trip without saying goodbye – and see how long it would take for Brian to notice that she had actually gone away!

Jamie was an interesting multi-layered character – a bit like an onion. I felt for him, having to juggle coping with a chronic illness whilst enduring house sharing with someone that he is besotted with; worse still, the object of his affections is clearly oblivious to his devotion. I feared for Jamie; was he strong enough to cope without Cassie? Did he read more into their relationship on the romantic front, than she did and if so, how would he cope with the devastation of finding that out, or finding out about a relationship between Cassie and another man?

I liked the relationships between the travellers on the mini bus – how their rapport grew by the day, to the extent that they were happily teasing each other and exchanging banter, for example teasing Ken about the new book he was writing. I found it compelling that Lil was seeking out new friends and experiences; the antithesis of society’s expectation of someone who has moved to an assisted living situation. I saw this as a sign to people of a certain age – that you’re never too old to try something new. There certainly was still was plenty of life left for living, in the old duck that was Lil.

Vulnerability is a theme throughout the book and the author deals with it most eloquently. Denise feels left out within the travelling party. Cassie tries to reach out to her, but it’s not very successful as Cassie is part of why Denise feels like she does. No blame can be attributed to Cassie – it’s just that Denise has this overwhelming sense of Cassie being perfect and of not being able to live up that standard.The other susceptible person is Jamie. He is clearly missing Cassie, and is underplaying how he feels. This quite rightly leaves Cassie concerned about him. The point when Jamie realises that Cassie is still going to be away for another 8 days, is positively heartbreaking wrenching. As a reader I was concerned about Jamie too – a testament to how realistic Judy Leigh makes her characters – to the extent that you genuinely find yourself caring about them.

Humour also features strongly throughout the book, with my favourite moment involving three of the older travellers, pot brownies and strip poker; enough said! In addition I think that the book sends messages about age – that you are never to old to find love – or in fact to do anything, should you choose to do so! What a fantastic outlook on life!

This book really was a panacea. I managed not to make the mistake of staying up all night to binge read it and I made it last a little longer. It brightened up my life. Even though I am nowhere near as old as Lil, this book affected me.

It made me laugh (in a most unbecoming fashion, at times).

It made me smile.

It made me laugh.

It made me cry. (most unbecoming again; funny tears; big ugly wet tears).

It made me see that you’re never too old for love.

it made me see you’re never too old to travel.

It made me realise that you’re never too old for anything, and especially anything new. Just listen to your heart.

It made me see that each of us is our own person – and you can do what the heck you like (so long as it’s legal!)

It made me want to make the most of my life, however old I may be; to seize every opportunity that crosses my path.

It made me think of death but in a positive way – as in thinking of good life lived.

This was one deep, powerful piece of writing, disguised as a lighter work of contemporary fiction.

Lil's Bus Trip By Judy Leigh
Pub Date 26 August 2021
It's always a good time for a road trip… When 82-year-old Lil decides to book herself, her 65-year-old daughter, Cassie, and her friend Maggie on a bus trip across Europe, she hopes for a little adventure to counteract the monotony of life.
Along with three members of the Salterley Tennis Club and the Jolly Weaver football team, whose ideas of a good time are rather different to Lil's and strikingly at odds with each other's, the merry band of travellers set out on their great adventure.
From moving moments on the beaches of Normandy, outrageous adventures in Amsterdam, to the beauty of Bruges and gastronomic delights of France, the holiday is just the tonic Lil, Maggie and Cassie needed.
And as the time approaches for them to head home, Lil makes an unexpected discovery - even in her advancing years, men are like buses – there isn't one for ages then two come along at once. Is Lil ready to share her golden years, and can the ladies embrace the fresh starts that the trip has given them. Or is it just too late to change…
Lil's Bus Trip is a well-written delightful, easy read. The author has skillfully established a broad range of characters, each with their own complexities, temperaments but most of all, a lust for life. Of course, there is emotion and anguish along the way, but as always, Judy Leigh's books leave you uplifted and smiling.
I enjoyed reading this book, and I highly recommend it.
I want to thank NetGalley, Boldwood Books and author Judy Leigh for this pre-publication copy to review.

I got this book as a widget from the publisher Boldwood Books and I didn't exactly know what to expect from it.
It has been my first one by Judy Leigh, but definitely not my last. Such a funny, delightful read!
A bunch of very different people, of different ages and different background go on a bus tour around Europe.
I loved the easy writing (such a pleasure to read), the skillfully drawn characters (each with their own traits and peculiarities) that seemed very real and true to life and the humourous (yet touching) undertone of the story.
Highly entertaining!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Lil’s Bus Trip is a sweet book combining new friends, romantic deceit, awakening love, and camaraderie.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Having read a few of Judy’s recent stories, I already had a good idea of what to expect from this book and wasn’t even slightly disappointed.
Lil makes the perfect protagonist, her lust for life, along with love for her daughter and friends, is a joy. Eager for a bit of fun, she books tickets on a European Bus Trip, with stops in France, Belgium and Amsterdam. There’s a mixed selection of other trippers, including members of the local pub football team to a couple of ladies from the Tennis Club. It’s immediately obvious that there will be fun times and maybe a few fireworks.
Whilst Lil was my favourite character, a special mention needs to go to Maggie and Pat. Both characters went from being somewhat downtrodden or the butt of jokes to metamorphosing as the trip went on. Their stories were simply lovely, and I enjoyed following their progress.
The descriptions of the towns and sites visited were perfect and I honestly felt like I’d climbed a tower in Bruges, eaten a feast in a Belgian farmhouse and maybe visited a coffee shop in Amsterdam.
After the lockdowns of the last couple of years and travel restrictions still in place, this was a love letter to Europe. Our travel to the continent may be a different experience to what we remember before lockdown, but I am still eager to return and explore.
Judy Leigh has created another wonderful story, once again proving that life doesn’t end at retirement. If we’re prepared to go and look for it, there’s plenty of fun to be had.

Absolutely brilliant, I loved this book. A group of 13 people go on a trip to Europe and we are with them on their adventures. Each character is written brilliantly and we get to know each one of them as we journey with them. They are all various ages with Lil being 82. I laughed out loud in several places and was sorry when the book ended.
My first book by Judy Leigh but now looking forward to reading her others.
Absolutely recommended.

Imagine a disparate group of people, all ages, all different walks of life. Some are long time friends, some parent-adult children, some mates who play sports together. Somehow this group of people from a small town in the UK go on a bus trip around Europe together and come out as family in the end.

I really enjoyed this book, and think that there are a lot of themes that would make this a great book club choice. Oil’s relationship with her daughter, and the path they’ve both taken in personal relationships due to the past. Do they both manage to overcome their worries and open their hearts? What about Maggie, will Brian notice she’s gone? Has Pat found his ever after? What about Ken, Denise and Sue, will they figure out what’s happening?

This was a well-written, thoughtful book about life, love and being open to new adventures, regardless of your age.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

Another fun novel by Judy Leigh who never fails to deliver!

Setting out on a bus trip across Europe, every one of the passengers is seeking something different; 82 year old Lil is looking for adventure, accompanied by her daughter Cassie and neighbour Maggie, hoping that the latter’s absence will give husband Brian a much needed wake up call. Along with members of the local tennis club, football team and the local landlord they set off on their unforgettable journey.

What an absolutely fabulous read! This author has the knack of creating a wide range of characters, each with their own personalities and idiosyncrasies, and bringing them to life. There is laughter and angst along the way but, more than anything else, there is wonderful entertainment. I look forward to each of Judy’s books as I know they will raise my spirits and make me giggle while also having a realistic side too. A marvellous read, thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommended. 4.5*.

My thanks to the publisher for my copy and to Rachel Gilbey for my spot on this tour; this is – as always – my honest, original and unbiased review.

Laugh out loud fabulous book!! Absolutely love Judy Leigh's books about all generations of life and love!
This was such a joy and delight to read!
Lil and her friend Maggie are off on holiday with Lil's daughter Cassie, and a few of the locals from the pub and local tennis club.
The trip across northern Europe is brilliantly described, and the antics of this little group are hilarious and touching.
Mischievous, light hearted, loving and warm, loved it, and can highly recommended.
Thank you for the opportunity to read early NetGalley and Boldwood books.

What larks! I gobbled this romp of a book up in a couple of days. what fun they had. What enthusiasm! I hope I'm like that when I'm Lil's age!

Lil's Bus Trip is sure to put a smile on your face. Li'l is the most energetic, full of life and fun 82 year old character that I have ever come across in a book or real life and I hope to be just like her when I get older! Forget the rules about how you should behave based on your age. Age is just a number and getting older is no excuse to stop having adventures, having fun and enjoying life to the fullest.

Lil and her daughter have a really special relationship which is really touching and they really look out for each other and always have. On the bus trip, which takes us through France, Belgium and to Amsterdam we see how Lil interacts with others and help this groupd of practical strangers become friends and care for each other. Lil is definitely the strongest and funniest character in this book, but the other characters all add to the story and the fun.

The places visited were not that spectacular for me as I have been to all of them and I find it funny how it is mentioned, France, Belgium and Amsterdam (just like I mentioned above), I guess it wasn't France, Belgium and The Netherlands as the trip only took them to one city in The Netherlands. Nevertheless, all places were discussed in an interesting way that would make the reader want to visit them and experience them, if they had not done so already.

So what can you expect in this story:
✅ old people that are full of life and sometimes mischief

✅ people of various ages bonding

✅ adventure, including some laugh out loud moments

✅stereotype adventures in some of the places visited

✅ friendships

✅ romance

✅ second chances

I really enjoyed Judy's writing style and will not hesitate to read more of her books.