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A Day Like This
What if everything you’ve ever loved, ever known, ever believed to be true…just disappeared?
Annie Beyers has everything—a beautiful house, a loving husband, and an adorable daughter. It’s a day like any other when she takes Hannah to the pediatrician…until she wakes hours later from a car accident. When she asks for her daughter, confused doctors tell Annie that Hannah never existed. In fact, nothing after waking from the crash is the same as Annie remembers. Five happy years of her life apparently never happened.
Annie’s marriage is coming to an end. Now a successful artist living in Manhattan, she’s no longer home in their beloved upstate farmhouse. Her long-estranged sister is more like a best friend, and her recently deceased dog is alive and well. With each passing day, Annie’s remembered past and unfamiliar present begin to blur. Haunted by visions of Hannah, and with knowledge of things she can’t explain, Annie wonders…is everyone lying to her?
The search for answers leads Annie down an illuminating path far from home, to reconcile the memories with reality and to discover the truth about the life she’s living.
Annie Beyers has everything—a beautiful house, a loving husband, and an adorable daughter. It’s a day like any other when she takes Hannah to the pediatrician…until she wakes hours later from a car accident. When she asks for her daughter, confused doctors tell Annie that Hannah never existed. In fact, nothing after waking from the crash is the same as Annie remembers. Five happy years of her life apparently never happened.
Annie’s marriage is coming to an end. Now a successful artist living in Manhattan, she’s no longer home in their beloved upstate farmhouse. Her long-estranged sister is more like a best friend, and her recently deceased dog is alive and well. With each passing day, Annie’s remembered past and unfamiliar present begin to blur. Haunted by visions of Hannah, and with knowledge of things she can’t explain, Annie wonders…is everyone lying to her?
The search for answers leads Annie down an illuminating path far from home, to reconcile the memories with reality and to discover the truth about the life she’s living.
287 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2021
About the author
Kelley McNeil
2 books565 followersKelley McNeil is an American author known for her book club fiction, which includes the chart-topping novels, "A Day Like This," and "Mayluna." Her writing is often inspired by the interconnected themes of intuition and the ongoing journey toward personal growth and happiness.
In her latest novel, "Mayluna," these themes are woven together once more, this time with a dose of insight into the behind-the-scenes world of rock & roll, drawing from Kelley's former career in the music industry.
Originally a native of Pittsburgh, these days you'll often find Kelley in sunny South Florida, her current home, where she can be seen immersed in her notebook with her daughters and a menagerie of beloved animals nearby; or sitting with her laptop at a café in London, a place she considers her second home.
Stay connected with Kelley through her newsletter, where she offers behind-the-scenes glimpses into her writing process, shares bonus features, book recommendations, playlists, and glimpses of life. She also enjoys engaging with her readers on social media, where you can find her on Insta at @kelleylmcneil or kelleymcneilauthor on TT & FB.
In her latest novel, "Mayluna," these themes are woven together once more, this time with a dose of insight into the behind-the-scenes world of rock & roll, drawing from Kelley's former career in the music industry.
Originally a native of Pittsburgh, these days you'll often find Kelley in sunny South Florida, her current home, where she can be seen immersed in her notebook with her daughters and a menagerie of beloved animals nearby; or sitting with her laptop at a café in London, a place she considers her second home.
Stay connected with Kelley through her newsletter, where she offers behind-the-scenes glimpses into her writing process, shares bonus features, book recommendations, playlists, and glimpses of life. She also enjoys engaging with her readers on social media, where you can find her on Insta at @kelleylmcneil or kelleymcneilauthor on TT & FB.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,239 reviews
November 27, 2021
What if?
If only…
Annie Beyers lives in the Yellow House, her dream farmhouse. She has a husband named Graham who she’s madly in love with...and a 5-year old daughter named Hannah, who is the apple of her eye.
Imagine Annie’s shock when she wakes up from a car accident only to be told that Hannah doesn’t exist...and that she and Graham are at the tail-end of their divorce.
They don’t live in the Yellow House anymore, and Annie is super close to her sister, Marcie...the sister she grew apart from in her “other” life.
Annie’s recollection of Hannah and their life together is so vivid. She remembers it in detail, but doesn’t recall the details of her current life trajectory. Afraid that everyone is lying to her - or that she might be unhinged - she goes on a journey of truth to figure out what’s going on.
Where will she find herself in the end?
This novel is gripping and intriguing, and very easy to fly through. I loved getting to know the characters, and I was impressed that it was author Kelley McNeil’s debut. Some scenes are touching, some are surprising, and all are interesting.
However, us readers see much more of her “current” life. Although there’s flashbacks to Hannah and what came alternately, it doesn’t really pack the emotional punch I felt it could’ve hit.
Overall, an entertaining and promising debut, and I’m looking forward to reading more from McNeil.
While this is a drama, there is a hysterical scene involving the discussion of chicken eggs. I read it twice and laughed quite a bit...and hopefully I’ll remember the gist of it down the road. You’ll know what I’m talking about if you read it.
This was my October Prime First Reads selection. Now available, and also included with a Kindle Unlimited subscription.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
If only…
Annie Beyers lives in the Yellow House, her dream farmhouse. She has a husband named Graham who she’s madly in love with...and a 5-year old daughter named Hannah, who is the apple of her eye.
Imagine Annie’s shock when she wakes up from a car accident only to be told that Hannah doesn’t exist...and that she and Graham are at the tail-end of their divorce.
They don’t live in the Yellow House anymore, and Annie is super close to her sister, Marcie...the sister she grew apart from in her “other” life.
Annie’s recollection of Hannah and their life together is so vivid. She remembers it in detail, but doesn’t recall the details of her current life trajectory. Afraid that everyone is lying to her - or that she might be unhinged - she goes on a journey of truth to figure out what’s going on.
Where will she find herself in the end?
This novel is gripping and intriguing, and very easy to fly through. I loved getting to know the characters, and I was impressed that it was author Kelley McNeil’s debut. Some scenes are touching, some are surprising, and all are interesting.
However, us readers see much more of her “current” life. Although there’s flashbacks to Hannah and what came alternately, it doesn’t really pack the emotional punch I felt it could’ve hit.
Overall, an entertaining and promising debut, and I’m looking forward to reading more from McNeil.
While this is a drama, there is a hysterical scene involving the discussion of chicken eggs. I read it twice and laughed quite a bit...and hopefully I’ll remember the gist of it down the road. You’ll know what I’m talking about if you read it.
This was my October Prime First Reads selection. Now available, and also included with a Kindle Unlimited subscription.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
March 4, 2022
3.5⭐
The first half was captivating. The second half was a complete surprise!
Annie Beyers's daughter Hannah has a fever on a Friday afternoon. Luckily, the last patient had canceled the appointment, and her pediatrician's office wants them there in thirty minutes. Annie knows it would take her longer than that on a sunny day and with the nasty storm it'll take her even longer but she'd try anyway. While driving down the country road, Annie glanced at Hannah in the rearview mirror when a pickup truck turned on to the road. Annie woke up at the hospital asking for her daughter but was told she was the only passenger in the car.
My oh my! I had a few speculations of what happened. Needless to say, none were even close. I didn't know going in what the story was about but saw several high ratings for this novel thus the reason I picked it up. I'm reluctant to even share the rest since it doesn't say in the blurb. The second half completely took me by surprise. I enjoyed the story but it got a bit repetitive so I deducted half a star.
The first half was captivating. The second half was a complete surprise!
Annie Beyers's daughter Hannah has a fever on a Friday afternoon. Luckily, the last patient had canceled the appointment, and her pediatrician's office wants them there in thirty minutes. Annie knows it would take her longer than that on a sunny day and with the nasty storm it'll take her even longer but she'd try anyway. While driving down the country road, Annie glanced at Hannah in the rearview mirror when a pickup truck turned on to the road. Annie woke up at the hospital asking for her daughter but was told she was the only passenger in the car.
My oh my! I had a few speculations of what happened. Needless to say, none were even close. I didn't know going in what the story was about but saw several high ratings for this novel thus the reason I picked it up. I'm reluctant to even share the rest since it doesn't say in the blurb. The second half completely took me by surprise. I enjoyed the story but it got a bit repetitive so I deducted half a star.
March 5, 2023
This novel by Kelley McNeil was a delightful surprise. Despite being her first published work, the author demonstrated exceptional talent, showcasing a writing style that was both sophisticated and effortless. A remarkable blend of excitement, wonder, and suspense made it unforgettable from start to finish.
The main twist of the story was that it was an unintentional journey from one dimension to another where the main protagonist, Annie Beyers, finds herself in the wrong situation. With each passing day in this new dimension, Annie’s remembered past and unfamiliar present begin to blur. Haunted by visions of Hannah (her only daughter), and with knowledge of things she can’t explain, Annie wonders... is she getting sick like her mother, or is it all a big lie?! As a mother, reading this book was an emotional and enlightening experience. The journey of the protagonist was so relatable, and I found myself feeling her pain, frustration, and hopelessness. The real joy of this book came from uncovering the answers to all the questions and realizing important lessons through the protagonist's journey. I was pleasantly stunned by the depth of the story and found myself thoroughly engrossed in this mysterious tale. Loved it!
P.S: This book, in my opinion, should have been included in the time travel fantasy genre. In this way, before choosing to read, it would be more convenient for the readers to understand the real theme of the book.
The main twist of the story was that it was an unintentional journey from one dimension to another where the main protagonist, Annie Beyers, finds herself in the wrong situation. With each passing day in this new dimension, Annie’s remembered past and unfamiliar present begin to blur. Haunted by visions of Hannah (her only daughter), and with knowledge of things she can’t explain, Annie wonders... is she getting sick like her mother, or is it all a big lie?! As a mother, reading this book was an emotional and enlightening experience. The journey of the protagonist was so relatable, and I found myself feeling her pain, frustration, and hopelessness. The real joy of this book came from uncovering the answers to all the questions and realizing important lessons through the protagonist's journey. I was pleasantly stunned by the depth of the story and found myself thoroughly engrossed in this mysterious tale. Loved it!
P.S: This book, in my opinion, should have been included in the time travel fantasy genre. In this way, before choosing to read, it would be more convenient for the readers to understand the real theme of the book.
April 16, 2024
4/5
Kelley McNeil just found herself a huge new fan because her books fall into the category of novels that remind me why I love reading. I know this author only has two stories, but reading these two books stirred so many emotions in me that even if I combine all the feelings I felt from some of the twenty books I have already finished this year — even all the emotions from them wouldn't have affected me as much like these two from McNeil. Her books just work for me, and I have to thank lorenhalelover for introducing me to them. I’ll always love you for that.
A Day Like This tells the story of Annie Beyers — mother of the full of life Hanna, and wife to loving husband Graham. Her life seems almost perfect until one accident changes it completely. Her daughter suddenly exists only in her imagination, and the love of her life turned into divorce papers lying on the table. Annie's past and present begin to blur, which raises the question of whether the last five years of her life even happened. Despite people in her life questioning her memory, our heroine tries to find the truth, which may turn out to be something she never expected.
I must admit that the first half of the book was a solid three or three and a half stars for me because the action was still slowly unfolding, but the rest of the story hooked me to the point that I didn't want to stop reading until the very end because I had to find out the truth. Every suspicious thing made me start creating new and new theories about the ending, but in the end none of them — to my surprise, because I usually even manage to predict the ending — turned out to be true. Some were close, some weren't, but even though I thought the ending would be more epic, it still surprised me quite a bit — in a good way.
I already can’t wait for the day when this author announces a new book, because I know that as soon as it comes out, I will sit down and read it. Anyway, I highly recommend this story! It was completely different than Mayluna, but fascinating nonetheless.
Kelley McNeil just found herself a huge new fan because her books fall into the category of novels that remind me why I love reading. I know this author only has two stories, but reading these two books stirred so many emotions in me that even if I combine all the feelings I felt from some of the twenty books I have already finished this year — even all the emotions from them wouldn't have affected me as much like these two from McNeil. Her books just work for me, and I have to thank lorenhalelover for introducing me to them. I’ll always love you for that.
A Day Like This tells the story of Annie Beyers — mother of the full of life Hanna, and wife to loving husband Graham. Her life seems almost perfect until one accident changes it completely. Her daughter suddenly exists only in her imagination, and the love of her life turned into divorce papers lying on the table. Annie's past and present begin to blur, which raises the question of whether the last five years of her life even happened. Despite people in her life questioning her memory, our heroine tries to find the truth, which may turn out to be something she never expected.
I must admit that the first half of the book was a solid three or three and a half stars for me because the action was still slowly unfolding, but the rest of the story hooked me to the point that I didn't want to stop reading until the very end because I had to find out the truth. Every suspicious thing made me start creating new and new theories about the ending, but in the end none of them — to my surprise, because I usually even manage to predict the ending — turned out to be true. Some were close, some weren't, but even though I thought the ending would be more epic, it still surprised me quite a bit — in a good way.
"Some choices are easier than others. The key is to be at peace in the moment. To celebrate the here and now. No life is perfect, I've learned. But if you're lucky, it can come pretty close."
I already can’t wait for the day when this author announces a new book, because I know that as soon as it comes out, I will sit down and read it. Anyway, I highly recommend this story! It was completely different than Mayluna, but fascinating nonetheless.
January 21, 2022
In a Nutshell: Quite an interesting debut novel with a challenging concept. But it aims too high and thus struggles to tie the story together neatly.
Story:
I am not sure how to review this without giving too much away. But I must say that the correct genre of this book isn’t yet present in its currently-assigned GR tags. I guessed the right solution for Hannah’s mystery quite easily so it was just a matter of time before the story started filling in the gaps. Most avid readers will be able to guess the suspense easily, so better not read this as a mystery but as general fiction.
The cover suits the book perfectly. The haziness of the picture represents Annie’s blurred memories. Plus, its ethereal painting-like quality fits Annie’s profession of being an artist.
For a debut novel, its scope is awesome and the narrative, quite convoluted. I appreciate the imagination of the author as she incorporates the concept of “what-if” beautifully in her book. The story is quite emotional at times, and you will empathise with Annie’s situation as she struggles to find the truth of why Hannah exists only in her mind. There are a lot of beautiful descriptions of nature, especially of lilac bushes, that attracted me at first but I soon started skimming through them as they began getting repetitive. At the same time, they add a dark atmospheric aura to the story.
The main problem with the book was that it attempts too much and thereby, the story becomes quite entangled within its own threads. For instance, there is a track about Annie’s mother that wasn’t really required. As is usual in this genre, there are many things left unexplained. I also didn’t like the ending; it seemed like too neat a finish.
The writing seems to be quite quick-paced at first, but until about 60% or so, I felt like no matter how fast I was reading, the percentage indicator wasn't moving upwards fast enough. Only towards the end did I finally manage to surge through it. It took me four days to complete this <300 page book.
Overall, I still liked the book, though I didn’t love it. It is worth a read, in spite of its teeny flaws, for its imaginative storyline. Just keep away your disbelief and your scientific mind to enjoy it better.
3.5 stars.
My thanks to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC of “A Day Like This”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Story:
Annie is living a happy life with her loving husband Graham and her adorable five year old daughter Hannah in the small country farmhouse. One day while taking Hannah to the paediatrician, her car meets with an accident and Annie wakes up a few hours later in hospital. When she asks about her daughter, the doctors tell her that she was alone in the car. Further confusion comes from the fact that there seems to be no evidence of Hannah’s existence. Also, Annie now supposedly stays in Manhattan, her marriage to Graham is almost over, and her estranged sister is now very close to her. Annie is convinced that Hannah exists but no one around her believes her. Are they all lying to her, or has Annie lost her mind after the accident? Was Hannah just a figment of her imagination?
The story comes to us in the first person perspective of Annie.
I am not sure how to review this without giving too much away. But I must say that the correct genre of this book isn’t yet present in its currently-assigned GR tags. I guessed the right solution for Hannah’s mystery quite easily so it was just a matter of time before the story started filling in the gaps. Most avid readers will be able to guess the suspense easily, so better not read this as a mystery but as general fiction.
The cover suits the book perfectly. The haziness of the picture represents Annie’s blurred memories. Plus, its ethereal painting-like quality fits Annie’s profession of being an artist.
For a debut novel, its scope is awesome and the narrative, quite convoluted. I appreciate the imagination of the author as she incorporates the concept of “what-if” beautifully in her book. The story is quite emotional at times, and you will empathise with Annie’s situation as she struggles to find the truth of why Hannah exists only in her mind. There are a lot of beautiful descriptions of nature, especially of lilac bushes, that attracted me at first but I soon started skimming through them as they began getting repetitive. At the same time, they add a dark atmospheric aura to the story.
The main problem with the book was that it attempts too much and thereby, the story becomes quite entangled within its own threads. For instance, there is a track about Annie’s mother that wasn’t really required. As is usual in this genre, there are many things left unexplained. I also didn’t like the ending; it seemed like too neat a finish.
The writing seems to be quite quick-paced at first, but until about 60% or so, I felt like no matter how fast I was reading, the percentage indicator wasn't moving upwards fast enough. Only towards the end did I finally manage to surge through it. It took me four days to complete this <300 page book.
Overall, I still liked the book, though I didn’t love it. It is worth a read, in spite of its teeny flaws, for its imaginative storyline. Just keep away your disbelief and your scientific mind to enjoy it better.
3.5 stars.
My thanks to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC of “A Day Like This”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
October 3, 2021
I absolutely loved this book and read it in one sitting. It centers on Annie, who gets in a car accident with her daughter, but wakes up being told that she never had a daughter at all.
This book has a unique way of converging the believable with the maybe believable to weave an authentic story that leaves you rooting for Annie no matter what decisions she makes. I thought it had it all figured out but the way it ended was even more beguiling than I had imagined.
That’s all I need to say- just go read the book, and make sure you have 3-4 hours to do it! Thanks to Amazon’s first read program for giving me early access.
This book has a unique way of converging the believable with the maybe believable to weave an authentic story that leaves you rooting for Annie no matter what decisions she makes. I thought it had it all figured out but the way it ended was even more beguiling than I had imagined.
That’s all I need to say- just go read the book, and make sure you have 3-4 hours to do it! Thanks to Amazon’s first read program for giving me early access.
October 7, 2021
What a disappointment after a promising start. Expected a real twist and battled on. And on. And on. Nothing! Just waffle waffle, Hannah bla bla. Sorry but what a waste of my time
January 4, 2022
A Day Like This........seems to put the wonk in wonky.
From the very beginning you know that things are definitely off-kilter. There's something brewing heavily in the background. It's like knowing you've got a dozen eggs in the carton only to view a different number each time you lift the lid.
Annie Beyers is a good mom. When little Hannah is listless and running a fever, she immediately schedules a last minute appointment with the pediatrician. With just minutes to spare, she zooms down the road heading to his office. But Annie doesn't see the truck turning into their lane.
And we'll be walking on egg shells from here on out. Annie is in the hospital with her injuries. She keeps crying out for her daughter, Hannah. The nurses inform her that she was brought in alone. She was the only one in the car. There is no Hannah. Whoa......
When her husband, Graham, shows up, he tells Annie that they don't have a child. Furthermore, she and Graham are separated and not on good terms. Where did those recent five years go? The doctor explains that although nothing has shown up in the tests, Annie may be suffering from paramnesia. He recommends psychotherapy as her memory regains itself. Annie is not buying what they are selling.
Here's where Annie begins walking into the convoluted maze of her current mind trying to convince everyone that her daughter is real. Frantically, she begins making phone calls and starts looking for any evidence of Hannah. And to add to this knotted web is the fact that Annie's mother suffered with mental illness for years before her death. All the little ducks are lined up......laying eggs.
A Day Like This is a good read at a 3.5 Stars kicked up to 4-Stars for the creativity of the storyline. The first part of the book was very engaging while the second part became almost repetitious. Perhaps I was looking for more of a sonic boom at the end. Wrapped up nicely and with no egg shells on any surfaces. A nice debut offering by this author. I'll be looking forward to the next.
From the very beginning you know that things are definitely off-kilter. There's something brewing heavily in the background. It's like knowing you've got a dozen eggs in the carton only to view a different number each time you lift the lid.
Annie Beyers is a good mom. When little Hannah is listless and running a fever, she immediately schedules a last minute appointment with the pediatrician. With just minutes to spare, she zooms down the road heading to his office. But Annie doesn't see the truck turning into their lane.
And we'll be walking on egg shells from here on out. Annie is in the hospital with her injuries. She keeps crying out for her daughter, Hannah. The nurses inform her that she was brought in alone. She was the only one in the car. There is no Hannah. Whoa......
When her husband, Graham, shows up, he tells Annie that they don't have a child. Furthermore, she and Graham are separated and not on good terms. Where did those recent five years go? The doctor explains that although nothing has shown up in the tests, Annie may be suffering from paramnesia. He recommends psychotherapy as her memory regains itself. Annie is not buying what they are selling.
Here's where Annie begins walking into the convoluted maze of her current mind trying to convince everyone that her daughter is real. Frantically, she begins making phone calls and starts looking for any evidence of Hannah. And to add to this knotted web is the fact that Annie's mother suffered with mental illness for years before her death. All the little ducks are lined up......laying eggs.
A Day Like This is a good read at a 3.5 Stars kicked up to 4-Stars for the creativity of the storyline. The first part of the book was very engaging while the second part became almost repetitious. Perhaps I was looking for more of a sonic boom at the end. Wrapped up nicely and with no egg shells on any surfaces. A nice debut offering by this author. I'll be looking forward to the next.
February 27, 2021
Masterfully crafted and wonderfully original, A Day Like This is storytelling at its best, leaving you with the tingly “what if” feeling that keeps you wondering about the story and the possibilities for your own life long after the last page is turned.
October 6, 2021
This was one of my Amazon First Reads picks for the month of October.
Annie Beyers has a perfect life with a perfect husband and a perfect daughter. Then, one day she goes to take her daughter to the pediatrician and she gets into a car accident. When she wakes in the hospital, she's frantic to find out how her daughter is but no one will answer her. She fears the worst only to be told the one thing she wasn't expecting. She doesn't have a daughter. Not only that, but it turns out the last 5 years that she was the happiest in her life, wasn't real. It's all something she conjured up in her head. At least that's what she is told. While she tries to reach her true memories that seem hidden to her, she starts to wonder if maybe everyone is lying to her. Everything seemed so real. It can't be just her imagination, a life her brain created in a moment of trauma. She sets out to find the truth, but will it be the one she wants?
I'm not sure what I was expecting. A sinister psychological thriller? A ghost story? A tale of a woman's descent into madness? To be honest, any of these would have been great but that's not what I got. A Day Like This is a well written story with characters that are thought out and an intriguing sounding plot. The problem is that it wasn't what I thought it was going to be and after reading it, it's not even sure it knows what it wants to be. It starts out as something that would be viewed on the Lifetime channel then takes a wild turn into the Twilight Zone before ending with a soft flutter as a Hallmark movie of the week. I'm fairly ok with the first one, totally on board with the second, but have to give a hard pass to the third. As far as the *actual* plot, it seems the focus is to beg the question, what if? It explores what your life would have been like had you made different choices....but it doesn't stop there. Instead, it delves into the idea of multiple dimensions, universes and time travel. Oy! As much as I love a good sci-fi flick, this idea doesn't work for me here.
That wasn't my only issue however. Contrary to a lot of other readers, I didn't care for the main character. It's blatantly obvious that we're supposed to be sympathetic to her but for some reason, I couldn't. There was something about her that I genuinely disliked. I can't for the life of me tell you what that is, but unfortunately it carried on throughout the entire book. The good thing I can say is that this is a quick read so you aren't putting yourself out much by indulging and it is engaging at times. You can't help but continue on just to find out if any of her memories of a different life were real or not. Unfortunately, it just wasn't what I was looking for and left me feeling unsatisfied.
Annie Beyers has a perfect life with a perfect husband and a perfect daughter. Then, one day she goes to take her daughter to the pediatrician and she gets into a car accident. When she wakes in the hospital, she's frantic to find out how her daughter is but no one will answer her. She fears the worst only to be told the one thing she wasn't expecting. She doesn't have a daughter. Not only that, but it turns out the last 5 years that she was the happiest in her life, wasn't real. It's all something she conjured up in her head. At least that's what she is told. While she tries to reach her true memories that seem hidden to her, she starts to wonder if maybe everyone is lying to her. Everything seemed so real. It can't be just her imagination, a life her brain created in a moment of trauma. She sets out to find the truth, but will it be the one she wants?
I'm not sure what I was expecting. A sinister psychological thriller? A ghost story? A tale of a woman's descent into madness? To be honest, any of these would have been great but that's not what I got. A Day Like This is a well written story with characters that are thought out and an intriguing sounding plot. The problem is that it wasn't what I thought it was going to be and after reading it, it's not even sure it knows what it wants to be. It starts out as something that would be viewed on the Lifetime channel then takes a wild turn into the Twilight Zone before ending with a soft flutter as a Hallmark movie of the week. I'm fairly ok with the first one, totally on board with the second, but have to give a hard pass to the third. As far as the *actual* plot, it seems the focus is to beg the question, what if? It explores what your life would have been like had you made different choices....but it doesn't stop there. Instead, it delves into the idea of multiple dimensions, universes and time travel. Oy! As much as I love a good sci-fi flick, this idea doesn't work for me here.
That wasn't my only issue however. Contrary to a lot of other readers, I didn't care for the main character. It's blatantly obvious that we're supposed to be sympathetic to her but for some reason, I couldn't. There was something about her that I genuinely disliked. I can't for the life of me tell you what that is, but unfortunately it carried on throughout the entire book. The good thing I can say is that this is a quick read so you aren't putting yourself out much by indulging and it is engaging at times. You can't help but continue on just to find out if any of her memories of a different life were real or not. Unfortunately, it just wasn't what I was looking for and left me feeling unsatisfied.
May 23, 2023
داستان در مورد انی، زنیه که با شوهر و کودک خردسالش هانا تو یه خونه روستایی در حومه نیویورک یه زندگی آروم و بیدغدغه داره. یه روز که داره هانا رو میبره پزشک اطفال، توی مسیر تصادف میکنه و وقتی تو بیمارستان به هوش میاد و سراغ دخترش رو میگیره، همه بهش میگن که انی هیچ وقت دختری نداشته، شوهرش مدتی هست که ازش جدا شده و انی اصلا در حومه شهر زندگی نمیکنه! انی هم که زیر بار نمیره که تمام خاطراتش با هانا و این زندگیای که بخاطر میاره رو مغزش بعد از تصادف از خودش ساخته باشه، راه میفته دنبال پیدا کردن حقیقت....
این یه کتاب تو ژانر رئالیسم جادویی بود؛ تلفیقی از زندگیهای موازی و سفر در زمان. توصیفات قشنگی داشت و احتمالا علاقمندان به داستانهای کلاسیک از توصیفات دقیقش لذت ببرن. اما برای من، اون چیزی که دوست داشتم باشه نبود. این ایده که طرف کلا دو روز با یکی معاشرت میکنه و به سرعت بهش علاقمند میشه و این آدم میشه همونی که همیشه میخواسته، توی هر داستانی روی اعصابمه! (نه که الان مسئلهام با این کتاب این باشه، ولی خب کلا!)
بطور کلی توصیه به خوندن یا نخوندنش نمیکنم، بنظرم کاملا به سلیقه افراد بستگی داره.
یه قاچ از کتاب:
"بعضی از انتخابها سادهتر هستند. مهم این است که از انتخاب خودمان راضی باشیم. مهم این است که تک تک لحظههای زندگیمان را قدر بدانیم و گرامی بداریم. به این نتیجه رسیده بودم که هر زندگیای کمیها و کاستیهایی دارد، اما اگر بخت یارتان باشد، میتواند شاد و شیرین باشد."
این یه کتاب تو ژانر رئالیسم جادویی بود؛ تلفیقی از زندگیهای موازی و سفر در زمان. توصیفات قشنگی داشت و احتمالا علاقمندان به داستانهای کلاسیک از توصیفات دقیقش لذت ببرن. اما برای من، اون چیزی که دوست داشتم باشه نبود. این ایده که طرف کلا دو روز با یکی معاشرت میکنه و به سرعت بهش علاقمند میشه و این آدم میشه همونی که همیشه میخواسته، توی هر داستانی روی اعصابمه! (نه که الان مسئلهام با این کتاب این باشه، ولی خب کلا!)
بطور کلی توصیه به خوندن یا نخوندنش نمیکنم، بنظرم کاملا به سلیقه افراد بستگی داره.
یه قاچ از کتاب:
"بعضی از انتخابها سادهتر هستند. مهم این است که از انتخاب خودمان راضی باشیم. مهم این است که تک تک لحظههای زندگیمان را قدر بدانیم و گرامی بداریم. به این نتیجه رسیده بودم که هر زندگیای کمیها و کاستیهایی دارد، اما اگر بخت یارتان باشد، میتواند شاد و شیرین باشد."
October 12, 2021
Enjoyed it enough but I expected to like it more. It dragged with descriptions of furniture, the house interior, thra backyard, the trees… and I found myself skipping paragraphs towards the end.
Nice idea, but I expected a stronger plot and a stronger ending.
Nice idea, but I expected a stronger plot and a stronger ending.
November 2, 2021
Great story! I really connected to these characters. Initially, I was worried the tragedy would overshadow the mystery (just because I don't enjoy sad books), but it was a great combination.
Definitely recommend to thriller/mystery readers!
Definitely recommend to thriller/mystery readers!
July 6, 2024
A Day Like This is a gripping novel of unwavering love, what ifs, and second chances. At no point in the story did I know what would happen next & just when it all seemed clear--another twist was thrown into the mix. I love love love this author's writing style. The ending left a little to be desired, but I was completely absorbed from start to finish. 4 stars.
Although I thoroughly enjoyed this one it will take a lot to top the emotional rollercoaster that is Mayluna. One thing is for sure...I can't wait to read whatever Kelley writes next!
Although I thoroughly enjoyed this one it will take a lot to top the emotional rollercoaster that is Mayluna. One thing is for sure...I can't wait to read whatever Kelley writes next!
November 29, 2021
3.5 thoughts soon.
October 16, 2022
Beautifully written!
I honestly dreaded reading more of this book. It was breaking my heart. As a mom I could feel her pain knowing she had something but just couldn't prove it. I've also often wondered about different paths we could have taken. So many different choices I could have made and yet I've always felt that the choices I've made, gave me the best version of my life. I've had dejavu so many times and often wondered why that happens. Maybe it is a little insight to another life that could have been. Anyways, this book was beautifully written! Emotions were all over the place. I tend to like those stories ♥️
Also how she described the yellow house as crying and being just as sad as she was. I really felt that. All my life I have put emotional bonds onto physical things. Maybe sometimes it isn't healthy. I have a hard time getting rid of certain things, because of the emotional hold I have on them. But memories and feelings are sometimes all we have and to have a physical object tie us back to that feeling of a certain time, makes my soul happy.
I honestly dreaded reading more of this book. It was breaking my heart. As a mom I could feel her pain knowing she had something but just couldn't prove it. I've also often wondered about different paths we could have taken. So many different choices I could have made and yet I've always felt that the choices I've made, gave me the best version of my life. I've had dejavu so many times and often wondered why that happens. Maybe it is a little insight to another life that could have been. Anyways, this book was beautifully written! Emotions were all over the place. I tend to like those stories ♥️
Also how she described the yellow house as crying and being just as sad as she was. I really felt that. All my life I have put emotional bonds onto physical things. Maybe sometimes it isn't healthy. I have a hard time getting rid of certain things, because of the emotional hold I have on them. But memories and feelings are sometimes all we have and to have a physical object tie us back to that feeling of a certain time, makes my soul happy.
November 6, 2021
I loved this book and I'm amazed that this is Ms. McNeil's first. I think it's the best book I've ever chosen from Amazon First Reads!
Can you imagine getting into a car accident with your daughter in the car, but waking up in the hospital and being told you've never had a daughter??? I won't go into everything Annie woke up to but it was a fascinating, heartwrenching premise. All I can say is if you want to escape into a story of big WHAT IFs, the road not taken, or second chances, you will love this book as much as I did!!
Can you imagine getting into a car accident with your daughter in the car, but waking up in the hospital and being told you've never had a daughter??? I won't go into everything Annie woke up to but it was a fascinating, heartwrenching premise. All I can say is if you want to escape into a story of big WHAT IFs, the road not taken, or second chances, you will love this book as much as I did!!
October 2, 2021
This was such a different novel and so enjoyable. I was really rooting for the main character and was shocked at the twist at the end. My mind was going in all directions while I was reading this accusing all and sundry but had no idea how it would turn out. Worth a read.
April 19, 2022
What to say about this book? Hmm. It's definitely not your normal, every day read - I honestly don't even know what genre to put this in? Fantasy, suspense, domestic drama? It's a bit of them all, and it's one of those books that you need to read for yourself and decide.
Annie Beyers is on her way to the pediatrician with her five-year-old daughter, Hannah, when she is involved in a car accident. When she wakes up in the hospital, her husband and the doctors all tell her that she does not have a daughter. In fact, they tell her that not much of what she remembers about her life is true. She is not a stay-at-home, country-living mom, but instead a successful artist in New York City. She cannot believe it, as her memories of Hannah are so real, and she sets out on a quest to discover what has happened. I don't want to give anything away, but what happens next is a bit of a mind f*** and will have your head spinning.
McNeil definitely has a way of bringing story to life with her descriptions and dialogues, and I found myself easily mesmerized by her writing style. I loved the first half of the book, but the second half of the book had a bit too much of a Twilight Zone feel for me. I found myself getting a bit irritated with the direction in fact, but then I must admit, the ending saved it for me.
Overall, an intricately woven tale of reality versus perception, and the possibilities of the human brain. Impressive debut work for McNeil and definitely worth the read. 4 stars.
Annie Beyers is on her way to the pediatrician with her five-year-old daughter, Hannah, when she is involved in a car accident. When she wakes up in the hospital, her husband and the doctors all tell her that she does not have a daughter. In fact, they tell her that not much of what she remembers about her life is true. She is not a stay-at-home, country-living mom, but instead a successful artist in New York City. She cannot believe it, as her memories of Hannah are so real, and she sets out on a quest to discover what has happened. I don't want to give anything away, but what happens next is a bit of a mind f*** and will have your head spinning.
McNeil definitely has a way of bringing story to life with her descriptions and dialogues, and I found myself easily mesmerized by her writing style. I loved the first half of the book, but the second half of the book had a bit too much of a Twilight Zone feel for me. I found myself getting a bit irritated with the direction in fact, but then I must admit, the ending saved it for me.
Overall, an intricately woven tale of reality versus perception, and the possibilities of the human brain. Impressive debut work for McNeil and definitely worth the read. 4 stars.
October 14, 2021
I guess I had a hard time empathizing someone experiencing extra dimensional world jumping. I felt like the book started off great and then we spent most of the book with the protagonist sitting around pining after a nonexistent child. Then, finally, the protagonist gets her old life back, but wait it gets better. She finds all the great things from her alter's life and acquires them in her old life! The bow couldn't be any bigger or tighter.
Did the author think about the fact that the protagonist could, at some point in the future, jump right back into the crappy alter #1's life? Or better yet, she could jump to alter #2's life.
No we all sing kumbaya at then end and the credits roll. If I was the protagonist, I'd be worried about jumping worlds again.
Did the author think about the fact that the protagonist could, at some point in the future, jump right back into the crappy alter #1's life? Or better yet, she could jump to alter #2's life.
No we all sing kumbaya at then end and the credits roll. If I was the protagonist, I'd be worried about jumping worlds again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2021
This read like a cross between a sci-fi movie and a Lifetime movie for me.
I’m not sure what I expected, but I was underwhelmed. Quick read though so, yay for that.
I’d be reluctant to read another book by the author.
I’m not sure what I expected, but I was underwhelmed. Quick read though so, yay for that.
I’d be reluctant to read another book by the author.
October 31, 2021
Why did I read this? Terrible, vomit inducing. One good character: Charlie although he didn’t have much of a personality. I should have known better.
August 2, 2022
Review coming soon.
June 10, 2022
If Dark Matter and What Alice Forgot had a book baby, this would be it. Compelling, plot-forward, and well-written, and very tied-up-in-a-bow at the end (if that’s not your thing, FYI). It was absolutely a case of right book at the exact right time for me, and I enjoyed it!
November 5, 2021
Anne and her 5 yo daughter, Hannah are on their way to the pediatrician during a bad storm and they had a horrible car accident. She wakes up in the hospital asking where is Hannah and everyone tells her she has no daughter. Has she been living a lie for years? Wow this was such a fascinating and intriguing story and I could not figure out how it was going to end. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. I met my reading challenge this year. This is book #150 for 2021!!
January 15, 2022
Such a great take on alternative life streams. And the love a mother has for her child. And soulmates.
February 2, 2023
3.5 ⭐⭐⭐
Unlike any other book I've ever read, at first I wasn't sure what to think, if it was just another of those soap opera-like amnesia stories, or if we had something really unique here. Unique it was! And the writing was lovely as was the narration.
I don't want to give away too much, as the big reveal at the end is reeeeally big and you need to not see it coming. I just thought it should have ended there rather than going on to add even more seasoning to the mix. It was a tad too much fantasy for me.
Unlike any other book I've ever read, at first I wasn't sure what to think, if it was just another of those soap opera-like amnesia stories, or if we had something really unique here. Unique it was! And the writing was lovely as was the narration.
I don't want to give away too much, as the big reveal at the end is reeeeally big and you need to not see it coming. I just thought it should have ended there rather than going on to add even more seasoning to the mix. It was a tad too much fantasy for me.
January 22, 2024
Woman's Fiction / Contemporary
Publication date : November 1, 2021
Narrated by: Amanda Leigh Cobb
Length: 9 hrs and 3 mins
As the story begins we see Annie Beyers (37) admiriring her fragrant lilac bushes and looking after her 5-year-old daughter, Hannah. Her husband has been delayed due to stormy weather. When Hannah gets fever, Annie has to rush to the doctor for the last minute appointment. On the way there they get into the car accident. After Annie wakes up, her life like she knew it, has completely changed...
A DAY LIKE THIS pulled me in immediately. The writing was so vivid that it made me feel like I was there along with Annie. I was intrigued and I enjoyed exploring Annie's two worlds—one in her memories from the Yellow House, and the other in the present settings of New York and London.
I enjoyed the mystery and I was wondering along with Annie what was going on. Was she crazy? Dissilusional? Stuck in parralel universe? If so, how to "get back" to her "other/old" life? I could feel Annie's emotions -- her fear, confusion, loss, desperation, her need for the answers. I liked Annie a lot - she was a character I could sympathize with, have pity and compassion for.
Well, definitely one of those stories that surprised me so pleasantly. Hard to believe that this was author's debut novel! Annie's journey to find and connect with her family was heartbreaking, bittersweet, touching, magical and hopeful. This was one of those reads that when I got nearly to the end I rewinded because I didn’t want the story to end.
I'd also like to mention narrator Amanda Leigh Cobb. She was wonderful at bringing this story into life and giving voice to Annie. Well done!
Publication date : November 1, 2021
Narrated by: Amanda Leigh Cobb
Length: 9 hrs and 3 mins
As the story begins we see Annie Beyers (37) admiriring her fragrant lilac bushes and looking after her 5-year-old daughter, Hannah. Her husband has been delayed due to stormy weather. When Hannah gets fever, Annie has to rush to the doctor for the last minute appointment. On the way there they get into the car accident. After Annie wakes up, her life like she knew it, has completely changed...
A DAY LIKE THIS pulled me in immediately. The writing was so vivid that it made me feel like I was there along with Annie. I was intrigued and I enjoyed exploring Annie's two worlds—one in her memories from the Yellow House, and the other in the present settings of New York and London.
I enjoyed the mystery and I was wondering along with Annie what was going on. Was she crazy? Dissilusional? Stuck in parralel universe? If so, how to "get back" to her "other/old" life? I could feel Annie's emotions -- her fear, confusion, loss, desperation, her need for the answers. I liked Annie a lot - she was a character I could sympathize with, have pity and compassion for.
Well, definitely one of those stories that surprised me so pleasantly. Hard to believe that this was author's debut novel! Annie's journey to find and connect with her family was heartbreaking, bittersweet, touching, magical and hopeful. This was one of those reads that when I got nearly to the end I rewinded because I didn’t want the story to end.
I'd also like to mention narrator Amanda Leigh Cobb. She was wonderful at bringing this story into life and giving voice to Annie. Well done!
January 3, 2022
This was my first book of the year for 2022! 🥳
This book was also an Amazon Prime First Reads pick for the month of October (2021).
Unfortunately, I didn’t love this book like everyone else seemed to. There are many five star reviews, so I couldn’t wait to read this. A Day Like This starts off really well, and then the middle of the book just became too weird for me. I had to push myself to keep on reading. I’m not even sure what genre this book would fall into? I’m guessing science fiction? I honestly had no clue where this book was going.
Now to the good part… I absolutely adored the last two chapters of the book. I also enjoyed the Acknowledgments at the end of the story. Because everything was wrapped up in a nice, pretty bow for me, I ended up liking this book more than I had initially thought I would. I am also glad that I pushed on and kept on reading.
If you are a fan of “what if’s”, and a little time travel, then I do recommend this book for you.
This book was also an Amazon Prime First Reads pick for the month of October (2021).
Unfortunately, I didn’t love this book like everyone else seemed to. There are many five star reviews, so I couldn’t wait to read this. A Day Like This starts off really well, and then the middle of the book just became too weird for me. I had to push myself to keep on reading. I’m not even sure what genre this book would fall into? I’m guessing science fiction? I honestly had no clue where this book was going.
Now to the good part… I absolutely adored the last two chapters of the book. I also enjoyed the Acknowledgments at the end of the story. Because everything was wrapped up in a nice, pretty bow for me, I ended up liking this book more than I had initially thought I would. I am also glad that I pushed on and kept on reading.
If you are a fan of “what if’s”, and a little time travel, then I do recommend this book for you.
October 13, 2021
It’s a difficult one to review without giving too much away so this review is a little vague.
We’ve all heard of an incident or accident that altered the life and life’s path of the person who experienced it and Ann is no different to a lot of those people, however, her life changed in ways she could never have imagined. One day she is pootling along nicely, living out her dream, the next she finds herself caught up in a nightmare, where nothing is as it should be.
I was totally intrigued as to where the story was going. What Ann is going through would be the stuff of your worst nightmare and for the first half of the book I was completely absorbed, wanting so desperately to find a solution for her, trying to figure out if she was being played, was part of some awful conspiracy concocted against her, and why that would be if it were the case. I wanted to know if she had been living among ghosts due to a figure she keeps seeing and whether they, or the house have anything to do with the situation she finds herself in.
Then the second half of the book took hold, and sadly things all became a little silly and really quite disappointing. I kept reading until the end just because I wanted to see where Ann's story was going to end up but I kind of wish I'd not bothered to continue and had stopped earlier.
I feel there was so much more the author could have done with the story, so many different routes she could have taken and I from the first part I really was expecting it to have a deep, dark twist to it but in the end it all falls quite flat.
It's a shame because it could have been such a good book.
We’ve all heard of an incident or accident that altered the life and life’s path of the person who experienced it and Ann is no different to a lot of those people, however, her life changed in ways she could never have imagined. One day she is pootling along nicely, living out her dream, the next she finds herself caught up in a nightmare, where nothing is as it should be.
I was totally intrigued as to where the story was going. What Ann is going through would be the stuff of your worst nightmare and for the first half of the book I was completely absorbed, wanting so desperately to find a solution for her, trying to figure out if she was being played, was part of some awful conspiracy concocted against her, and why that would be if it were the case. I wanted to know if she had been living among ghosts due to a figure she keeps seeing and whether they, or the house have anything to do with the situation she finds herself in.
Then the second half of the book took hold, and sadly things all became a little silly and really quite disappointing. I kept reading until the end just because I wanted to see where Ann's story was going to end up but I kind of wish I'd not bothered to continue and had stopped earlier.
I feel there was so much more the author could have done with the story, so many different routes she could have taken and I from the first part I really was expecting it to have a deep, dark twist to it but in the end it all falls quite flat.
It's a shame because it could have been such a good book.
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