Please click to read a synopsis of Planning to Live.
To read an excerpt of this book, please visit Heather’s website.
My Review:
It’s rather ironic that I was in the middle of reading this book when the tragic events occurred in Japan. Perhaps it is why this book really brought out some strong emotions in me. Rhiannon is the main character, who is in a single car accident and gets seriously hurt. While the story is really over the course of one evening, Rhiannon recalls certain memories of her recent past. She is an educated single woman, who is the maid of honor for her best friend. Wanting to look good, while standing next to her friend and the other bridesmaids, Rhiannon decides she needs to lose weight. Thus, begins her journey towards weight loss, acceptance, and love.
Rhiannon is the kind of woman we all have met or are. She is very dependable, takes her job very seriously, and doesn’t have time to interact with others. If anything, interacting with her co-workers would probably just slow her down because she is that intense when it comes to working. She isn’t a very talkative and outgoing person, however she certainly has a best friend that knows everything about her.
In the midst of crisis, Rhiannon maintains her composure and begins to write letters to those she loves and cares for. While doing this, she reminisces of past experiences and relationships, allowing the reader to know and love her just as she is. Planning to Live is the kind of story that truly made me reflect on my own life and is a wonderful example of someone focusing on what one can control, as opposed to focusing on the “why me?”. Through the course of the evening, Rhiannon realizes and eventually embraces the notion that life is about appreciating the small things along the way and the value of relationships. There are some surprises along the way, but it is not a heavy read at all.
So, as only Rhiannon can write it best, I am attaching a letter she wrote to her friends and loved ones. Heather Wardell has it posted on her website as well, as it doesn’t give away what happens in the book.
Please Note: A copy of this book was provided free of any obligation by Heather Wardell. No monetary or any other form of compensation was received.
