Every once in a while you pick up a book that isn’t what you thought it was going to be. That could either be a positive or negative depending on how well you like the story.
This particular one that I was able to review kept me guessing for quite a while but ended up being delightfully unique. Read my thoughts on this review below.
The Happiness Blueprint by Ally Zetterberg
Publisher: MIRA; Original edition (April 2, 2024)
ISBN-13: 978-0778369714
OVERVIEW:
Klara and Alex are having trouble connecting, but at least their calendars are in sync.
Klara—who’s always thought of herself as a little different, a sneaker in a world full of kitten heels and polished boots—is feeling a disconnect these days. She has type 1 diabetes, currently works in a dead-end job, and is in desperate need of a change. When her dad falls ill, Klara begrudgingly agrees to help run his small construction company while he recovers, even though it means moving back home and pushing the boundaries of her comfort zone to the extreme.
Alex has been a shell of himself since his brother died in an accident. He’s unemployed, has bills piling up, and is distant from friends and family. His therapist is encouraging him to keep things manageable by setting up a calendar, checking off tasks each day, and looking for work to help get him back on his feet. When an ad pops up for a carpenter position at a small construction company, he jumps at the chance to take a step forward.
Klara’s and Alex’s stories unfold through a series of miscommunications in this clever and witty novel from debut author Ally Zetterberg that’s about finding acceptance and even love in unexpected places.
The Happiness Blueprint by Ally Zetterberg
I do enjoy reading books that are set in different countries because we get the flavor of the culture and a little glimpse into the differences in our world. The author did a great job with arts in terms of setting the stage.
The story is set in Sweden for the most part and is written from two points of view. I have to say the first quarter of the book I had a difficult time figuring out where this story was going to lead.
The main characters had issues; one had depression that he was working through somewhat. The other had definite quirks and traits that were a part of her personality.
Once we started getting into the heart of the story, I started enjoying it so much more. The two started blending together and working on getting to know each other, building a relationship of sorts… Very different from what we normally see in a romance or women’s fiction novel.
By the last quarter of the book, there comes a huge twist along with a big gesture to tie everything together.
To me, the story reads more as a women’s fiction with a romantic feel. The two main characters had feelings for each other through most of the entire book but they never did anything about it. The story never felt romantic but their personalities certainly balanced each other well.
The family of each of the main characters is also a big part of this book and while there is discussion of the death of a sibling, as well as depression, there is also healing, love, and even a few laughs along the way.
Zetterberg sets herself apart with The Happiness Blueprint as it is different in every aspect.
4 STARS!!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.