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cheyennedierker's review
emotional
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
"The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife" tells the heartwarming tale of Fred, an elderly man mistaken for another named Bernard and taken to Bernard's nursing home. Here, Fred finds solace, learns about Bernard's past, and forms deep connections with the residents and staff. Through his journey, Fred discovers the importance of family, forgiveness, and redemption, finding a sense of belonging in his twilight years.
While the ending is uplifting, the book delves into profound sadness and tackles heavy topics (be sure to check the trigger warnings). Although some dialogue may feel forced, the story is well-paced and emotionally-driven. Overall, it's a solid choice for those who appreciate themes of found family, identity, and love and sacrifice, particularly if you enjoy a slower-paced read with a heartfelt message.
ARC | Kindle Version
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
While the ending is uplifting, the book delves into profound sadness and tackles heavy topics (be sure to check the trigger warnings). Although some dialogue may feel forced, the story is well-paced and emotionally-driven. Overall, it's a solid choice for those who appreciate themes of found family, identity, and love and sacrifice, particularly if you enjoy a slower-paced read with a heartfelt message.
ARC | Kindle Version
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Abandonment, Cancer, Terminal illness, Child death, and Dementia
Minor: Pregnancy, Alcoholism, Infidelity, and Addiction
smitchy's review
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
If you loved "A Man Called Ove" by Fredrik Backman or "The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village" by Joanna Nell this book will be for you. Frederick Fife is 82, widowed, and broke but he always looks on the bright side of life. Having been told by his landlord that he needs to vacate he takes a walk by the local river to try to think where he is going to go. Then he spots a man in a wheelchair, stopping to have a chat he realises the man has in fact passed away! When an unfortunate series of events results in the body in the river and Fred with a bump on the head being bundled back to the nursing home in his place. Fred's uncanny resemblance to Bernard allows Fred to slip into his life, and upon discovering that Bernard too had no-one Fred's conscience is not feeling so guilty and he slips easily into the home's routines. When Bernard's estranged daughter makes contact things get complicated! It is time for Fred to do what he does best and try to fix this borrowed life of his.
This is a moving, funny and charming novel about family, loneliness, grief and community. Fred is such a loveable person and his impact on the inhabitants and staff of the nursing home is immediate. The complicated lives of Fred, Bernard and his daughter intertwine to intrigue the reader and shed light on an anger-filled past. Can Fred's influence bring Hannah the peace she needs?
This is a moving, funny and charming novel about family, loneliness, grief and community. Fred is such a loveable person and his impact on the inhabitants and staff of the nursing home is immediate. The complicated lives of Fred, Bernard and his daughter intertwine to intrigue the reader and shed light on an anger-filled past. Can Fred's influence bring Hannah the peace she needs?
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