Book Review: If You Could See Me Now by Cecelia Ahern

The Blurb
Elizabeth Egan's life runs on order: Both her home and her emotions are arranged just so, with little room for spontaneity. It's how she counteracts the chaos of her family -- an alcoholic mother who left when she was young, an emotionally distant father, and a free-spirited sister, who seems to be following in their mother's footsteps, leaving her own six-year old son, Luke, in Elizabeth's care. When Ivan, Luke's mysterious new grown-up friend, enters the picture, Elizabeth doesnt know quite what to make of him. With his penchant for adventure and colorful take on things large and small, Ivan opens Elizabeth's eyes to a whole new way of living. But is it for real? Is Ivan for real?

If You Could See Me Now is a love story with heart -- and just a touch of magic.

My Review
If You Could See Me Now is the second book I’ve read by Cecelia Ahern. The first was Love, Rosie. I absolutely loved that book, so when I got the opportunity to read If You Could See Me Now, I jumped on it.

There is no doubt that Ms. Ahern has a gift with words. The issue that I had was that it was a book of fantasy. I had trouble suspending reality because it was a fantasy set in a realistic environment, not in a true fantasy setting. I kept waiting for it to become real, but it never did and this left me disappointed.

I was impressed with the depth of emotion Ms. Ahern was able to illicit throughout the story. From joyful silliness to deep despair. I smiled a lot and shed a tear or two.

After reading the book something stuck with me. Ivan, the hero of sorts, kept saying throughout the novel, “This is my absolute favorite.” And he changed it up for everything. I thought it was wonderful.  Basically, there are no limits to the favorite things you can have in life. 

I think Ms. Ahern was brave for writing the novel of her heart and putting herself out there. I look forward to reading PS, I Love You and any other work she comes out with.

I purchased this book at a bookstore.