Book Review: All That Life Can Afford by Emily Everett
When I first stumbled upon All That Life Can Afford, a Reese’s Book Club pick, I was immediately drawn in by its lively premise: a young American woman attempting to carve out a place for herself among London’s elite. As someone who’s navigated the complexities of social dynamics, I felt an instant connection with Anna. Emily Everett, the author, invites us into a world that sparkles with glamour but is grounded in genuine emotional truths, making it impossible to resist diving into this debut novel.
The story follows Anna, who first dreams of a glamorous life in London, far removed from her humble beginnings of food stamps and secondhand clothes. Upon arriving, the reality hits hard—she finds herself in a moldy flat and struggling to make ends meet. It’s a relatable struggle many face, and my heart went out to her. Her journey takes a dramatic turn when she meets the Wilders, a wealthy family that thrusts her into a whirlwind of luxury in places like Saint-Tropez. Here, we see Anna’s transformative journey, but with transformation comes a heavy price.
Key themes of class disparity, ambition, and identity resonate throughout. The dance between belonging and self-worth kept me reflecting long after I turned the last page. Everett adroitly explores what it means to forge a new identity while grappling with the shadows of one’s past. I could feel Anna’s internal struggle, especially when she meets two suitors—one who symbolizes wealth and privilege, and the other who sees the real Anna. This tension adds layers to the story, making it a rich tapestry of love, longing, and self-realization.
Everett’s writing is both lyrical and engaging. Her vivid descriptions of London’s streets and the high-society parties made me feel like I was waltzing alongside Anna. It’s no wonder readers have compared her prose to that of Jane Austen; you can sense the Austenian nods peppered throughout, which not only adds charm but also anchors the story in timeless themes of social class and romance. One line that resonated with me was: “I would arrive, blank like a sheet of notebook paper, and write myself new.” This encapsulates Anna’s quest perfectly, reflecting the transformative power of new experiences.
I appreciated how the narrative unfolds, although some may find the pacing uneven. While the initial chapters set a slower tempo, they also build a necessary emotional landscape that pays off dramatically as the story progresses. Plenty of readers have noted that it felt like a slow burn at first, but once it ignites, it’s impossible to put down.
In conclusion, All That Life Can Afford won’t just appeal to fans of contemporary romance or coming-of-age tales; anyone who has ever felt out of place or craved belonging will find themselves immersed in Anna’s world. This novel artfully encapsulates the contradictions of ambition and authenticity, making it both a thoughtful read and an enchanting escape. Emily Everett has crafted something special here, and I look forward to what she creates next. It’s a warm recommendation from me, especially for those who love a good story wrapped in the exquisite complexities of life.
You can find All That Life Can Afford: Reese’s Book Club here >>