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Every Happy Family

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Every Happy Family

By: Sarah Stovell
Narrated by: Emily Pennant-Rea
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Summary

A hilarious drama about family secrets, perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty.

‘[A] gripping family tale… Stovell is a thoughtful, wise and witty writer’ Daily Mail

‘Funny, compelling and so on point about family dynamics’ The Sun

'We read this brilliant book in one sitting’ Bella

Minnie and Bert are over the moon to have their three grown-up children home for the first time in a decade. But having Lizzie, Jess, Owen and the grandchildren under one roof isn’t without its dramas.

Lizzie is off the alcohol (although emergency gin doesn’t count), Jess is juggling a toddler and a newborn, but it’s Owen who has the power to throw a grenade into everything.

It all stems from an incident that happened years ago. And it involves Nora Skelly – a name you don't mention in front of Minnie.

With Nora also back in town, the past is about to come crashing into the present. And what better time to revisit old secrets and resentments than around the family dinner table?

* * *

What readers are saying about Every Happy Family

‘If you love Liane Moriarty then this is a great book for you…I couldn't stop turning the pages and finished the story in 24 hours.’ Netgalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘What a fabulous family drama this was… superb, funny, heart wrenching read. It read so easily and I just couldn't put it down.’ Netgalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘On the one hand I wanted to devour in one sitting but on the other I wanted to ration because I knew that once I'd finished I was going to miss these true to life characters being in my life.’ Netgalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘An absolute must read if you like some family drama (that's not your own!)’ Netgalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘It’s quietly brilliant. My only complaint is that I didn’t want to leave them all. ’ Netgalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Praise for Other Parents:

‘Set to be one of the most talked-about books of 2022’ HELLO!

‘Sensitive, sharply observed and often funny’ Adele Parks, Platinum

Coming of Age Family Life Fiction Genre Fiction Small Town & Rural Women's Fiction
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Critic reviews

Praise for Other Parents

'A timely and intoxicating firecracker of a drama packed with small town secrets, politics and prejudice . . . Thoughtful, thought provoking and always supremely entertaining' Best

'This story about the politics and dark undercurrents of a school community is sharp, compelling, and thought-provoking, with a cast of characters who live and breathe on the page' Amanda Jennings, author of The Cliff House

‘Clever, thought-provoking and darkly funny. Tackles big issues with a light hand’ Tina Baker, author of Call Me Mummy

‘A brilliant book’ Bella

‘Loved it from page one. Fully immersive with beautifully realised characters and a plot that tackles some huge, important issues. This is the kind of book I crave’ Emily Edwards, author of The Herd

‘Topical issues and wry observations abound’ Woman’s Weekly

‘An astute and gripping page-turner that takes many hot topics and examines them from every angle . . . Genuinely original and utterly compelling’ NJ Mackay, author of Found Her

‘The school playground has never been this entertaining . . . funny, moving, complicated and sometimes a bit twisted . . . If you enjoyed Big Little Lies then there are echoes of it here . . . Read and enjoy it now and revisit it in a year or two when the inevitable Netflix miniseries launches’ My London

All stars
Most relevant
I loved the characterisation and the difficult but relatable dynamics of family life. Would make a wonderful book club read. Excellent narration. Will definitely be looking out for more books by this author.

Loved it start to finish.

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Every Happy Family by Sarah Stovell is a captivating audiobook that deserves four stars for its compelling narrative and intriguing characters. The story deftly switches between 1995 and the present day, where there are secrets and drama that is achingly sad in parts, although this is balanced by a sharp observational eye to provide some wry humour.

Sarah Stovell's skill in crafting complex, relatable characters shines through, making each one fascinating and engaging. The plot is filled with enough twists and turns to keep you hooked from start to finish.

A special mention goes to the narrator, Emily Pennant-Rea, whose remarkable performance truly brings the characters to life. Her ability to achieve distinct voices for each character adds an extra layer of immersion and enjoyment to the listening experience.

Every Happy Family is a moving and well-executed story that offers plenty of drama and emotional depth. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a richly woven tale with outstanding narration.

Every Happy Family

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I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The narration was great. There was an element of not knowing what had happened that wasn’t over done and was realistically resolved. Lovable characters, great portrayals of post natal depression and peri menopause subtly woven in. Brilliant storytelling well paced. Highly recommend.

Beautiful story, beautifully written

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Great to listen to. Humane, perceptive, really good characterisation, interwoven stories…loved it. Like all her books can’t wait for the next one.

Every happy family

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Well written, laughs and tears - such a sad story - I didn’t want it to end!

Loved it

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