The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley first grabbed me with the title. Then the back cover copy. Courtney Walsh is a go to writer for me and this looked to be a doozy. It was.

The basic premise is a solitary academic researcher takes on thirty one challenges to disprove that the activities will make her happier. Gosh this was a fun yet deep story, and that’s not an easy skill to master. Walsh played my emotions like a marionette – one moment I was chuckling and the next feeling Isadora’s hurt in my chest.

As Isadora works through the different recommendations, she accrues new people in her life, and there’s nothing I love more than a story with ensemble art members who worm right into the heart. I instantly warmed to each of them, and probably warmed to Cal a little more than a married woman should. Such is Walsh’s skill.

My favorite thing about The Secret Life of Isadora Bentley is watching the different relationships blossom, just as Isadora did. I cheered when she smiled and sighed when she hurt. This is definitely recommended for anyone who enjoys contemporary romance, clever plot and a side order of rom com. Bravo.

I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley but the enjoyment was all my own.