This is another me problem, I do not like books with the divorce being the focus of the book. I'm newly engaged and just don't feel the same way towards the topic as others (which is fine, I'm just in love and not easily relatable to divorce). I read another book similarly but that had more to do with the aspect of dating and that type of aftermath of divorce. I do like the connection of the grandma in this book because my grandma was so important to me. But this is another subject I learned isn't for me.

If We Ever Get There by Laura Barrow is a beautifully written and poignant story about love, self-discovery, and the journey of healing. It follows the journey of two women—Amelia, who is struggling to find her way in life after a difficult breakup, and Grace, who is dealing with the loss of a loved one and trying to make sense of her future. Their paths cross in a way that is both heartwarming and inspiring, leading to a narrative filled with emotional depth and growth.

Barrow’s writing is lyrical and immersive, capturing the complexity of both her characters and the emotional landscape they navigate. The book delves into themes of friendship, grief, and second chances with a tenderness that makes it both relatable and moving. The way the author weaves these themes together is seamless, making it easy for readers to connect with the characters on a personal level. The dialogue is natural and genuine, and the interactions between the characters feel authentic, drawing you deeper into their worlds.

Amelia and Grace are both flawed, yet endearing characters, and their individual journeys of self-discovery are a highlight of the story. The pacing of the book is well-balanced, with moments of lightness balanced by more reflective, emotional scenes. The growth and healing that both characters undergo is gradual and thoughtful, allowing the reader to see their transformation over time. What I appreciated most about this book was how it highlighted the importance of personal growth, the beauty of human connection, and the ways in which our past experiences shape who we are.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is how it portrays the nuances of female friendship. As the two women bond over shared experiences and help each other work through their respective challenges, their relationship becomes a central pillar of the story. The dynamics between Amelia and Grace are realistic and heartfelt, and it was refreshing to see such a positive and supportive depiction of female friendship.

However, while I thoroughly enjoyed the book, I did find that the pacing occasionally slowed in the middle. There were moments where the plot became a bit predictable, and I wished for a bit more tension or conflict to keep things feeling fresh. Nevertheless, this is a minor issue, and the emotional payoff at the end was well worth the wait.

The ending is satisfying and uplifting, leaving the reader with a sense of hope and renewal. Barrow’s ability to balance heartache and healing with an ultimately optimistic message makes this book an uplifting and worthwhile read.

**Thank you to the author and publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

If We Ever Get There by Laura Barrow is a heartfelt and emotional novel that explores the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery. The story follows two women, Izzy and Quinn, as they navigate their evolving relationship while dealing with personal struggles and past trauma. Barrow’s writing is poignant, with deeply relatable characters and an authentic portrayal of emotional growth. The novel’s blend of romance and introspection creates a moving, thought-provoking read that will resonate with fans of contemporary LGBTQ+ fiction.

I really enjoy books that have a dual timeline … especially when they are well written. And the author does a great job with bridging the two time periods. It was a little difficult to read about Effie Baker’s life taking a sudden turn with the end of her 19-year marriage. I could so identify with this character in that respect! Having the POV from Effie in the present and letters from her grandmother, Lolly, to Patsy Cline in the past was fun to experience. I loved watching Effie grow and discover who she really was and what she wants for her life. I found myself humming along to some of the songs from Lolly’s letters. There is a little romance, some paranormal aspects, and the efforts Effie takes to face life struggles head on. I found myself chuckling at times and tearing up at others. Such a wonderful reading experience and I strongly encourage you to put this one on your to-be-read list. I enjoyed it so much that I plan to go back and read her first book, Call the Canaries Home. I am so impressed that this is only the author’s second book to be released. She has such wonderful potential and I can’t wait to see what her future books hold in store for my reading pleasure.

Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!

Laura Barrow’s If We Ever Get There offers a profound exploration into the lives of two generations of women grappling with the complexities of marriage, family, self-love, and personal growth. Set against the evocative backdrop of Patsy Cline's music and legacy, Barrow crafts a narrative that is both poignant and empowering.

The story centers around the experiences of two women: each entrenched in the throes of her marriage and family life, and navigating the legacy of those choices. Barrow delves into the emotional and psychological toll that comes with putting one’s own identity on hold while prioritizing family responsibilities. This theme is incredibly relatable for many readers, especially those who have found themselves sidelined in their own lives while focusing on the needs and expectations of others.

What sets If We Ever Get There apart is its realistic portrayal of the struggle to reconcile personal dreams with familial obligations. The novel paints a vivid picture of the sacrifices and compromises that often accompany long-term commitments. Yet, it also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-love and personal fulfillment.

Barrow’s writing is both intimate and reflective, guided by the timeless influence of Patsy Cline's music and her short lived life, which acts as a comforting and motivating presence throughout the narrative. Cline’s songs echo the themes of heartache and self-discovery, enhancing the emotional depth of the story and providing a soulful soundtrack to the characters' journeys.

At its core, the book is a call to action: a reminder that settling for less in life, marriage, or career is not an option. It encourages readers to carve out time and space for themselves, to pursue what makes them truly happy, and to never lose sight of their own dreams and aspirations.

If We Ever Get There is a moving and insightful read that will resonate deeply with anyone who has ever questioned their place in life or sought to rediscover their own path. Laura Barrow’s heartfelt narrative is a testament to the resilience and strength of women finding their way back to themselves.

Set in the Town of Tilly, Texas mostly in 2024. Effie lives with her two teenage children. Her life is a mess, and her husband has left her for a younger woman.

Effie has surgery to improve her body, but something goes wrong during the surgery and Effie has a near death experience where she receives a message from Patsy Cline. Also, after the surgery Effie discovers she can see people who have died.

This was a fun story about Effie and her family. I loved the descriptions of Effie’s grandmother Lola, and I loved the way Effie tries to help the people she meets who have died.

Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for a chance to read this E-Book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This book was a little difficult to get into. I picked it up and put it down so many times but I’m glad I pushed through. This book was so sweet! I loved the Patsy Cline letters.

Poignant with a touch of whimsy, Laura Barrow's If We Ever Get There is a delightful journey. When protagonist Effie had a near-death experience and wakes up seeing ghosts, her entire life changes and stretches...in a good way. She 'meets' affable Cameron, who nudges her into changes long needed in her life.

Simultaneously, we get diary entries from Effie's beloved grandmother, Lolly, written during her youth, which of course weaves it's way into the present as Effie's journey parallels Lolly's in many ways. I heartily recommend If We Ever Get There for anyone who is a fan of the BBC's Ghosts and Patsy Cline. You'll see why!

I really tried to get into this book. I picked it up and put it down three times. By the blurb, I really thought it was something I could get into. But it just wasn't the book for me.

Thank you netgalley for this arc in exchange for my honest review. Recently split from her husband Effie has plastic surgery and has a near death experience. Apparently this causes her to see and hear the dead. Cameron died in a car accident and gets Effie involved in trying to settle his leftover issues so his soul can move on. There is an interwoven story of her grandmothers story with Patsy Klein. Overall a lighthearted read. I wish I had been more able to read this fluidly but unfortunately it ended up broken up. Four stars.

What a charming story! I absolutely loved it. It's unique story of a woman coming to terms with her divorce. I rooted for Effie throughout the story. I loved how her relationship with her daughter evolved and I adored the letters to Patsy Cline

A very unique, sweet story. I really enjoyed it and what a novel concept.
It was very relatable, very readable and just lovely!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

After reading the authors debut novel Call The Canaries Home and loving it so much, I knew that I would want to read her new book If We Ever Get There. And I have to say I enjoyed it just as much. Laura Barrow is an author that you are going to want to read. This book centers around the life of Effie Baker. She’s a married woman with 3 children who has put her life and dreams on hold to raise her children and assist her husband in building his business and making a successful career for himself. Once Effie learns of her husband’s infidelity her life takes a drastic change. After going through a minor surgery, where Effie believes she died and then comes back, she starts to experience some strange happenings. She can see and talk with dead people! This bit of magical realism makes this story very interesting. With the help of a deceased man that she befriends she learns to accept that some people will never change and that it’s time to move on and start living for yourself. It’s time to follow your own dreams and do what makes you happy. Included in the story are references to Patsy Cline, who Effie’s grandmother idolized, and that also made this book a really fun and entertaining read. I’d like to thank NetGalley for the arc. This is a story I really enjoyed, I found myself laughing out loud on several occasions and it’s a book I will be recommending to everyone I know who reads. Laura Barrow is an author I will be reading more of. I’m giving this book a 5 star rating and will be purchasing a paperback of this to add to my home library of favorites. I’d like to add that I read this book in one day which is something that I never do so that should tell you just how much I really enjoyed it!

If We Ever Get There by Laura Barrow was an enjoyable women's fiction story.
Such a real and relatable story. I enjoyed reading this one.

Thank You NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

4/5 stars ARC comes out 6/18/24
Effie is really adorable. She is the kind of mother and wife that looks out for everyone else but herself. Then one day her unfaithful husband catches her off guard. After experiencing a complete life transformation, she is currently attempting to discover her identity as a single woman. This piece of writing is outstanding. You will become engrossed in it right away. It will become impossible to put down. It's going to make you chuckle, feel angry for Effie, and possibly even cry. This book is ideal for everyone who has ever felt inadequate yet needs to be reminded that they are wonderful just the way they are.

What a sweet story about Effie learning about herself and who she want to be. “If We Ever Get There” by Laura Barrow did a wonderful job telling Effie story. Even though it was slow going in the beginning you are still able to connect with the characters. There was definitely a twist/turn of events I did not see coming. But enjoyed it nonetheless. If you are an emotional person I recommend having tissues as I cried along side Effie.

“Thank you NetGalley, Lake Union, and Laura Barrow for an eARC copy of If We Ever Hey There.

Told in alternating chapters between a present-day middled-aged woman and her grandmother's journal from the early 1960's, this is a story of finding one's place in the world and deciding what to do about it. Although we only get the perspectives of two, the story ultimately involves four generations of women. It's a relatable tale for mothers and daughters everywhere in so many ways.

There is a slight paranormal aspect to this story which is kind of intriguing. I'm not usually a fan of that sort of thing, but it worked in this case; and I didn't find it creepy at all which is normally my reaction when ghosts are mentioned. Yes, I'm a wimp. Also, the references to Patsy Kline and country music throughout were amusing, but they weren't so overpowering that someone who isn't a country fan would be put off. I found both of these aspects to really add some depth to a story that has been told before, frankly, but still managed to feel fresh.

Bottom line: This is women's fiction at its best: intergenerational relationships and legacies, struggling with women's roles and expectations, a bit of romance, and so much more. I would recommend it to any fans of the genre.

Great synopsis but unfortunately the book itself fell short. Poorly written with a very weak storyline makes this a pass.

I didn't know what to expect when I got this story, but I found a gem.

In this story we meet Effie a housewife who has to discover who she is after her marriage of almost 20 years ended due to her husband's infidelity, in this search for her new self she encounters the spirit of Patsy Cline a country star of which her grandmother was a fan.

In this journey we see through Effie's eyes the highs and lows of starting over after living a life a certain way and having it fall apart.

It's been quite a discovery that I have enjoyed greatly, I highly recommend!!!

#IfWeEverGetThere #NetGalley.

Freaking LOVED! Especially as a midlife human going through a divorce this had me laughing so hard and hit me in the heart in so many good ways!!!