Is there anyone who doesn’t like Jojo Moyes? Anyone at all? Okay, now that we have that settled…
Clearly, I am a big fan of Moyes. And I’ve only read three of her novels. She is expressive, emotional, witty, and captures her characters vividly. I also love the fact that there is no obvious formula. Each story presents its own pain, joy, and wit in a way that eliminates a frequent reader’s ability to predict what’s coming.
After You is a rare sequel for Moyes. Me Before You, it’s prequel, was so wildly popular, her audience wanted more - demanded more. And Moyes delivered. Our protagonist Louisa is still recovering from the heartache of losing her love, Will and is lost in the world. Will gave her courage, yet she’s not yet fulfilled the potential Will knew she has, and she feels she’s letting Will and herself down. Lou is in a dead end job and still hasn’t unpacked her boxes in her London flat after living there for months. Then, she has an accident.
The accident itself doesn’t change much for her, but her family asks her to attend a support group. It’s hilarious and sad and just what Lou needs. This and the gorgeous paramedic that came to her rescue. There may be promise for her. But then enters the ghost of Will. Moyes introduces someone that rocks Lou’s world, shaking it up and knocking her around - sometimes for good, and sometimes to her detriment.
After You did not give me the same emotional jarring as Moyes’ other works I’ve read (Me Before You and The Girl You Left Behind), but it was gratifying nonetheless. I found myself cheering for not only Louisa, but for all the main characters along the way. And Moyes maintained her unique style that always seems to do the trick.
Read our reviews of other Jojo Moyes works on Beyond the Cover: Me Before You and One Plus One.
Published: 2015
Publisher: Pamela Dorman Books
Vickie’s rating: 4 stars