Geraldine Verne’s Red Suitcase | By Jane Riley

 

 

Book Review | NetGalley E-Arc

Geraldine Verne's Red Suitcase
His dying wish was to set her free. So why does she feel so trapped? Jack had two dying wishes: that his wife scatter his ashes somewhere ‘exotic’, and that she not give up on life once he was gone. He intended to spur her on to new adventures, but despite clinging to her red suitcase, Geraldine Verne hasn’t left the house for three months. It takes an accident for Geri to accept help from her friends, but when Meals on Wheels arrive she is mortified. Yet heartbroken volunteer Lottie brings with her more than cottage pie and custard. Like Geri, she too is struggling to cut loose. As a gloriously unlikely friendship blossoms, Geraldine begins to feel a long-lost spark of life and a newfound confidence. Perhaps what both women needed most, after all, was each other.   (Goodreads)  

 

 

 

My thoughts 

 

 

Narrative and Plot 

 

 

With a compelling voice and an elderly charm, Geraldine Verne’s Red Suitcase is one of those stories that can easily touch your hearts with its simplicity. Grief is a powerful emotion. The book portrays it with grace and feeling.

The story is mostly character-driven. It is basically the journey of Geraldine Verne and how she overcomes a difficult phase in her life with a little help. This simple story is executed beautifully that it brings a smile to your face while reading. 

 

 

Characters and Conflicts  

 

 

 

While Geraldine Verne is the main character and the narrator of the story, there is enough room for other supporting characters who make an impression.
Mrs Verne is witty and feisty which makes the story all the more interesting. While she portrays this eccentric old woman, Lottie’s character creates a balance by being as grounded as possible.

The conflict of the book is one’s own inhibitions and fears which is quite relatable. To read about someone getting out of it can be quite inspiring even if it is fictional.

The only thing if I had to point out would be, we never get to know much about Lottie and where she is coming from. However, that is forgivable since this is mostly Geraldine Verne’s story. 

 

 

Conclusion 

 

 

If you’re looking for a heart-warming and uplifting book , this one is for you. The story is quite self aware of its limitations. It does not do anything grand and yet, it makes a point by reminding us to rejoice in the simple joys of life.  

 

 

 

About the Author

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

I received an e-ARC of the book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

 

 

 

 

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