April 26, 2026 – My Sanctuary

Everything’s Grand By Freya Kennedy

Becca Burnside finally has life heading in the right direction. She’s loving her new job, writing magazine features about being a woman in her forties, her boys are happy, her romance with Conal O’Hagan is blossoming – and for once, she actually feels like she’s got it together.

But when Conal starts talking about the future, Becca’s commitment collywobbles kick in with a vengeance. Add in a new grandbaby who’s as adorable as she is exhausting, a Fabulous Forties Club that refuses to organise itself, and her mum giving her more reasons than ever to worry, Becca’s ‘fabulous’ forties are starting to look a lot more FFS.

Meanwhile, best friend Laura is discovering there’s more to life than clean laundry and home-cooked dinners. When she finally enrols in the university course she’s always dreamed of, she realises her family have been taking her for granted – especially when they still expect dinner on the table and their pants ironed, even when she’s not at home! But with a little help from Becca and the gang, Laura’s ready to remind everyone (including herself) that it’s never too late to chase what you really want.

Can Becca and Laura hold it all together – or will their fabulous forties turn into full-blown chaos?

At forty-six, Sophie Bianco’s life is half baked—trapped in a controlling marriage and estranged from her critical mother. Her only solace? The Invisible Baker, her secret business helping overwhelmed moms create Pinterest-worthy moments.

When her mother’s death coincides with the last straw in her marriage, Sophie grabs her chance. Armed with divorce papers and her savings, she reclaims her childhood home. But freedom comes with complications: hoarder-level chaos, plumbing disasters, and an ex-husband plotting revenge. When her daughter announces an engagement that echoes Sophie’s own mistakes, the past threatens to repeat itself.

Desperate for income, Sophie takes a position as a pastry chef, finding unexpected sweetness in both the work and the charming restaurant owner. But as family drama and professional opportunities collide, Sophie must finally answer the question she’s been avoiding: Who is she when she’s no longer invisible?

About The Author

My Review

This captivated me with its story of a woman reclaiming her life and refusing to settle for less than she deserves. Sophie Bianco’s journey from heartbreak to self-discovery is at the heart of this novel, and it’s both messy and inspiring. Julie Hatcher balances humor, vulnerability, and genuine emotional growth, making Sophie’s transformation feel authentic rather than tidy or predictable.

Sophie, along with her daughter Camilla and friend Alicia, are characters you can easily root for. Each brings warmth and energy, though Sophie’s perspective as the narrator is especially compelling—her mix of flaws and virtues makes her deeply relatable. Even Raisin, the family cat, steals scenes with effortless charm. The ex-husband, while clearly the antagonist, is portrayed a little too perfectly, lacking nuance, yet he serves his role effectively.

The pacing wavers in the middle, reflecting Sophie’s emotional swings during her divorce, but the story regains momentum and keeps you engaged to the end. Fans of chick lit, especially readers of Sophie Kinsella and Sophie Ranald, will find this warm-hearted, uplifting tale a delightful, feel-good read.

My Rating