Review | The Shelf by Helly Acton

Blurb

Ever feel like you're losing a race you never signed up for?

Everyone in Amy's life seems to be getting married, having children and settling down (or so Instagram tells her), and she feels like she's falling behind.

So, when her long-term boyfriend surprises her with a dream holiday, she thinks he's going to finally pop the Big Question. But the dream turns into a nightmare when, instead, she finds herself on the set of a Big Brother-style reality television show, The Shelf.

Along with five other women, Amy is brutally dumped live on TV and must compete in a series of humiliating and obnoxious tasks in the hope of being crowned 'The Keeper'.

While inside the house, will Amy learn that there are worse things than being 'left on the shelf'?

Review

Hilarious, refreshing & original!

This novel is like a breath of fresh air, its real, authentic, and relatable. Acton perfectly captures friendship the strength, the support, and the way it anchors you. 

Individually the contestants aren't perfect they are flawed, they are insecure and they all have their struggles, but together they are a force to be reckoned with and are all lovable. I felt the women had very distinctive voices and all stood out from each other. 

I loved the empowerment in is novel, learn to love yourself, follow your head and your heart to do what makes you happy. Yes, the message at its core about finding 'the one' but never ignore those red flags and know the sometimes 'the one' is you. Be confident. Be strong. Be you. 

Overall this story is brimming with laugh-out-loud moments and a few heart-wrenching ones there is never a dull moment. It's a must-read!

A huge thanks to Clare Kelly & Bonnier Books for gifting me a copy in return for an open & honest review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐