The Book that Matters Most by Ann Hood

DRB Reviews...The Book that Matters Most by Ann Hood

Book Bub posted its daily deals one day in November and I purchased The Book that Matters Most for my kindle. I really wanted to read something different besides the usual mystery thriller I usual buy, and it didn't disappoint me. It was money well spent.

​The Book that Matters Most is about a woman named Ava, going through a divorce. She finds companionship by joining her friend's book club. I loved the concept that literature could heal. I chose not to read other peoples reviews before I started reading this book, and I am glad I did. Not all reviews of this book are positive; had I read the negative reviews early on, I may have ditched reading it altogether and I am glad that didn't happen.

I believe Hood created real characters, that are flawed and raw. I am a trauma survivor and I had to learn how to cope with addiction in my marriage. I struggled with trauma bonds and low self-esteem as a result. Hood's book reminded me of these real issues; the book moved me. I don't think readers can truly appreciate the characters and story lines, because it isn't the usual "feel good" scenarios; as a result, they can't relate. Well, I did. Maggie's story line was gripping, and broke my heart; her experiences felt real and too close to home. Ava's divorce came across as genuine. I could relate to her trying to find coping strategies to help her survive. Hood wrote her characters with weakness and vulnerabilities, which gave the story more substance. The Book that Matters Most is not a feel-good Rom Com, but a gritty story that hit me in the gut. Other readers complained that the story-line bounced around a bit...it did, but once I was hooked, I didn't mind the jumping around.

This book was messy, sad and real and I really enjoyed it. (I love the simplicity of the cover design too; beautiful.)

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