The Woman Who Stole My Life

July 6, 2015
Keyes (The Mystery of Mercy Close) infuses her trademark levity into her latest novel, an honest examination of how dynamics change when one is struck with a life-threatening disease. Irish beautician Stella Sweeney is leading an unremarkable life with her husband and children when she is stricken by Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Immediately, the disease renders her locked into her bodyâable to think, see, and hear, but only able to communicate via blinking. After her marriage breaks up, the only bright spots in her days are visits from her neurologist, Mannix Taylor, with whom she forms a reluctant alliance. After she recovers, Stella discovers that Mannix has compiled all of the messages she blinked into book form, and she is thrust into the spotlight as a self-help author while also trying to adjust to an unexpected yet much appreciated romance. Keyes meanders a bit with the story, which toggles between the present day and Stella's illness in the past, introducing plot points that might resonate betterâand be better understoodâonce readers have gotten to know the flawed yet engaging main character and the solid lineup of supporting characters. Still, Keyes manages to bring a lightness and humor to a weighty topic.

December 1, 2015

Unlike her husband, Ryan, who designs lavish theme bathrooms, Irish beautician Stella Sweeney doesn't crave artistic celebrity, but then misfortune consigns him to household duties and makes her a household name. Temporarily paralyzed by Guillain-Barre syndrome, with only her eyelids operational, Stella telegraphs plucky bits of everyday philosophy to her neurologist, who documents everything. Months later, those optimistic quotables resurface, attracting a six-figure book deal. The dazzled Stella, envisioning a glamorous life makeover with her new love, decamps with her two fractious teens to New York City, where hostile book tour audiences, an ineffectual agent, and a suspiciously conscientious assistant/personal trainer await. Despite structural issues--the plot meanders at times and chronologically alternating chapters muddle the story arc--Keyes's (The Mystery of Mercy Close) latest is satisfying and rich in her signature heartbreak-infused humor. Aoife McMahon's sparkling narration centers the narrative, underscoring Stella's Everywoman qualities and distinctively voicing a charmingly idiosyncratic supporting cast. VERDICT Recommended for fans of British chick lit and book clubbers seeking diverting but provocative fare (best served with a side of Jaffa Cakes). ["A deeply charming work, despite its unevenness": LJ 5/1/15 review of the Viking hc.]--Linda Sappenfield, Round Rock P.L., TX

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