Another Life is a novel written by New York Times bestselling author Kristin Hannah. The book was previously published in the USA under the title The Things We Do for Love and was released in 2023 on audio and e-book format under the title Another Life.
I was so excited when I thought there was a new Kristin Hannah book out as I didn’t realise it was a re-release of a previous title. I loved Kristin Hannah’s latest books especially The Nightingale, Four Winds and The Great Alone.
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Plot
Angie Malone’s marriage has crumbled after years of unsuccessfully trying for a baby. Struggling with the loss of both her husband and her babies, Angie returns to her loving Italian family. Angie soon finds herself entangled in the challenge of saving their struggling family restaurant.
Meanwhile Lauren Ribido is a dedicated dedicated high school senior. Lauren is striving for a scholarship to college without any help or support from her troubled mother.
After Angie hires Lauren to work at her family’s restaurant, an instant bond is formed between the two. When Lauren’s mother disappears, Angie opens her heart and home to the teenager. Little do they know, this act of kindness will set in motion a series of events that will challenge them both deeply.
These two women, each yearning for something missing in their lives – Angie for a child and Lauren for a mother’s love – will face unforeseen tests and trials that will push their bonds to the limit.
Another Life Book Review
I did enjoy this book but I did find it just wasn’t in the same league as Kristin Hannah’s newer novels. Her more recent books take you on a real journey and I felt Another Life was just a little bit too predictable.
While the plot itself wasn’t particularly surprising, I did like the characters, especially Angie. I also loved Angie’s chaotic tight-knit family. They were loud and brutally honest yet also supportive and loyal to the end. I could easily understand why Lauren yearned to be part of such a family.
I thought the issue of infertility and loss was sensitively handled. It clearly highlighted the effect such tragedy can have on a relationship. Angie’s journey of self-discovery was marked by heartache but I loved how she became more resilient and strong.
Despite themes such as loss, infertility and family breakdowns, I just didn’t feel as moved by this story as I have by other Kristin Hannah novels. I think that’s because it was quite obvious from the beginning of the book where the story was heading.
Overall, Another Life is an emotive read that weaves together the threads of family, love and the last impacting of kindness. I found it to be an enjoyable read but just not in the same league as her later works.
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Pennie
Monday 13th of November 2023
I totally agree with Jen. Being a reader who appreciates how much Kristin Hannah has grown as an author, I was so excited to see a new 2023 book...only to learn that it is NOT new. Another Life is nowhere near the league of The Nightingale, Four Winds, or The Great Alone. Feel duped and dumb.