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Review
I’ve never read anything by Barbara Delinsky before, but her books have always caught my eye and I’ve always thought ‘one day’ and I was happy to be given the opportunity to read and review her newest book Blueprints. The plot sounded emotive and just the type of story, similar to those that I love from the likes of Diane Chamberlain and others.
After a brief intro to the TV show ‘Gut It’, we’re introduced properly to Jamie as she meets with her father, Roy. He breaks the news that it’s been decided that Caroline, Jamie’s mum will not host the show. Jamie is unhappy about this and the drama unfolds from there. Most of the time, I found myself absorbed into the story, however about a third of the way in, I found it a bit too slow paced and my interest waned. However, this didn’t last long and as soon as Jamie finds Chip, a new friend to help her with her new found motherhood, things picked up again.
It was great to read two viewpoints, both Jamie’s and Caroline’s. Hearing Caroline’s reaction to her being replaced was fascinating, how her upset turned into doubt, and accusatory tones towards her daughter and best friend Jamie. It was understandable, but at the same time frustrating, you know she’s completely wrong, and while Jamie could have done things slightly differently, ultimately, I can’t claim I would have done different. As I said though, I can understand why Caroline was suspicious.
I think because I am about the same age as Jamie, I can relate a lot more to her than I could Caroline. At times Caroline frustrated me, not just over the initial mistrust of Jamie, but seemingly her stubbornness in keeping the tension between them. It felt that Jamie was trying so hard at times, especially with everything else going on. There were a few other things that I wasn’t sure about with Caroline’s story arc, and I do feel it’s more than likely because of the age difference between Caroline and I. Ask me in about 25 years and then I’ll let you know how I feel and understand her then.
The other characters were all really well written. Brad was utterly infuriating, it was hard to imagine why Jamie had ever gone out with him, they were chalk and cheese. Chip was charming, as was Dean. I really, really liked Samantha, and while she would have had no reason to turn up earlier in the book, I wish I had got to know her better.
Overall I enjoyed this book, it had a cute epilogue that I really enjoyed and I was utterly enthralled to see where Jamie’s story would end. This at heart is a book about family, and what it means by overcoming obstacles, and getting over the hurt we can unintentionally cause.
Published by: Piatkus
Gratefully received from the Publisher for review
View Book on Goodreads
Order on: Amazon UK | Amazon US | Book Depository
