The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley: A Novel

Courtney Walsh has done it again. Courtney’s female main characters are always written in a way that I connect very strongly with, they are real, and Isadora is no exception.Isadora, on her 30th birthday reads an article about 31 Ways to Be Happy (Today), and scoffs. There is absolutely no way that these 31 things can bring happiness. But as she is a researcher, and loves experiments, she decides to try it, if only to prove the article wrong. During her journey of proving the article and the “soft science Doctor” wrong, she learns more about herself than she ever thought possible.There are a lot of things about myself that I learned while on the happiness journey with Isadora. And that’s what this book was an absolute journey. Because Courtney writes such realistic characters, her characters go through many highs and lows. It’s not all rainbows and roses. Isadora is flawed just like all of us, but this book shows that we should celebrate our differences, stand up for ourselves, and never let anyone change who we are, we are masters of our own happiness.

I absolutely loved this book! It's so funny (I read part of it on an airplane and couldn't stop laughing at some points!) but also addresses some really deep and thought provoking issues such as friendship, forgiveness, love, and of course, happiness. The author tackles these subjects in a way that made me pause and reflect on my own life while also feeling so connected to the characters. The characters are so real and lifelike that I found myself rooting for them as they navigated the challenges of their lives. Some books are so good that the moment you finish them you have to go back and start over because you just aren't ready for it to be done... this was one of those. I'm reading it for a second time now and hoping for a sequel because I'm so not ready to be done with these characters!

I just finished reading two books that were fantastic but absolute downers and was looking for a change in pace. I’m a Courtney Walsh fan and this book came out just in time. It is truly a breath of fresh air- a good read, a light hearted story, a happy ending, and all with true moments of laughing out loud. There are plenty of serious moments,too, and a few tears were shed as Isadora reflected on herself and her experiences. Read this book. It’s a true pleasure!

I don't usually leave reviews, but this book so touched my heart. Courtney Walsh has created such lovable characters in this story. Isadora is a little bit of all of us I think. She brings the characters to life in such relatable ways. I could be friends with the people in this book. She helps us to realize that even though we may be different, and can't always relate to others, we still need people. Relationships are so vital we were meant to be in community with others. I encourage you to read this book and get to know the characters like I did.

Cute book! Really sad in some parts. Like I cried 😂 I’m not interested in finding the secret of happiness, I prefer the concept of joy. It’s just a better word, especially as a Christian. Regardless it was a wonderful, insightful book. I think my biggest take away was who around me could use a smile or a little joy in their life? How could I bring just a little sunshine in someone’s life who needs it? Great book! Walsh didn’t disappoint!

Isadora is like all of us in her thoughts and feelings. You'll enjoy her journey as you read through the book.Friends are a blessing and Isadora certainly gains several in the adventure of her thirtieth year of life.You will see yourself in many of the pages. A delightful read!

The beginning of this story was a little different, and I didn’t think I was going to like it as well as the other books by Courtney Walsh. It wasn’t long until I realized it was an amazing story. I have enjoyed reading all her books!

What a great book! I fell in love with Isadora. And so much wisdom on how we really do get to choose to be happy.

Read via Kindle. 4 stars.This book started out kind of slow for me and I admittedly did not like Isadora much. I was disappointed that it did not have the Christian faith aspect in the story that I expect for Christian fiction.At about 40% through, the story caught fire for me and then I really enjoyed it. The progression of growth and realization of a character I didn’t care for took me by surprise and I grew to respect her and like her very much.It reminded me of that old adage about how we never know what the person next to us is going through—and to be kind. It’s something I’ve always believed and practiced but I deserved a kick in the tail. I realized that I need to brush up on that. (Thank-you, Isadora.)I must say that I was ready to jump up and punch my fist in the air when she finally speaks up for herself to someone who betrayed her. I think we’ve all been hurt by someone and regret that we didn’t speak up at the time and deal with it head on.This book has a lot of bluntness, humour, endearing moments, true friendship, and it blossomed from a small bud to a huge, gorgeous flower that brings a smile to one’s face by simply experiencing it. 🌻

Isadora is real, hilarious (although most of the time that's accidental) and is loveable in all her awkwardness. She sets out to disprove a tabloid magazine writer wrong about finding happiness in 31 steps. Her research, however, proves that possibly, just maybe, she could be wrong. Isadora's ability to say exactly what she's thinking is priceless and something that I believe all introverts can relate to. This is a brilliant novel about finding happiness, not just with others but within yourself. I was moved to tears a few times and laughed out loud many more. This is, by far, the best book I've read this year.