I absolutely loved this book!! Amy's husband shows up after having left three years ago and she is presented with the opportunity to have time to herself while he takes the kids for the summer. She goes on a #momspringa, so named by her friend Talia who runs a magazine. What's a momspringa you ask? Well it is a vacation to find yourself again. Amy Byler takes us on a hilarious journey to New York city. This book is full of snarky comments and is laugh out loud funny. The characters are so realistic that I felt like they were my friends. It explores what we, as women, need. Sometimes that is a break from our day to day lives. I want a momspringa! Great flow throughout with incredible dialogue, this is a book that needs to be read. An absolutely amazing book that will leave you laughing. Go grab it now! Uplifting and full of love this book will knock your socks off! Thank you Kelly Harms for one of the best books I have ever read! 10 stars!!
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I LOVED this book! Every mom, single or married, is going to relate to this one. I certainly did. Who wouldn't want a week (or more) away from kids, husband/partner, and just from having to be responsible and in charge of EVERYTHING and EVERYONE?! I want to experience a "momspringa" in New York City, actually anywhere, like Amy Byler did. What an amazing experience and much-needed break for Amy after taking care of her kids and home by herself for three years after her husband left her to go work overseas because he couldn't handle life with a wife and two kids. Yeah. So he comes back, wanting to make amends and become a part of the kids' lives again, which gives Amy, relunctantly, the chance to get away for a week while loser husband spends time with the kids. Her time in NYC is quite the adventure, meeting a hot librarian, getting a makeover courtesy of her friend Talia and her assistant Matt, and just having the time of her life. I wanted to be Amy!

This was such a fun, laugh-out-loud book that I really am glad to have read. I needed a book like this right now. The writing is excellent, and I absolutely adored these characters (okay, except for loser husband. Ha!). I cannot believe I haven't read more of Kelly Harms' books but that is going to change! The Overdue Life of Amy Byler is one that shouldn't be missed.

I received a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Absolutely a fun book to read! Every mom needs a momspringna! There where a few twist of sadness that I did not see comging, but then isn't that life? This story is rich with attitude and characters to love! Great for a summer read that will give mom clubs great topics for discussion!

3.5 Stars for The Overdue Life of Amy Byler!

Harms' novel was all things fun, real, sassy and entertaining. You might think you've heard the story of an exhausted single mom trying to reclaim herself on a #momspringa, but Harms puts a spin on her version that sets this one apart. Making our protagonist a school librarian who wants to introduce her students to more books immediately warmed me to Amy and her Flexthology program (pick up the book to learn more about that!). What really set this one apart for me was Amy's daughter Cori. Each chapter started with a journal entry to Amy from Cori in the sassiest voice possible - which endeared me and made me laugh out loud!

As a single woman, it's sometimes hard for me to relate to the worn out mother but I still enjoyed this book nonetheless! I think this one will resonate with many moms and I would definitely recommend!

Thank you to Lake Union for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

Such a relatable story of a hardworking mom who gets the chance to have a week off in New York. She is also working through the sudden reappearance of her husband John after three years.

There was so much to love about this book: Amy is a librarian and she develops a whole new learning method, she loves her children unreservedly, she has a great circle of friends.

As her husband tries to make amends with their children, Amy alternates between being grateful and angry that he’s trying so hard with them, but not her.

As a week turns into two months, Amy is given a real break from her life. She gets some perspective on herself and her identity besides being a mom. She has some fun with a makeover and dating as part of a magazine feature on #momspringa - the ultimate dream week of pampering and relaxation.

One of my favorite parts was the letters to Amy from her daughter Cori. While her mom was away, Cori would write in a journal and give her thoughts on her dad being back, dating, and her plans for her future.

Something happens in the last 1/4 of the book that was shocking and brings Amy home. I loved how everyone rallied around Amy. This was a wonderful and funny title which will make you think.

I will say immediately that I absolutely adored The Overdue Life of Amy Byler. Not only is Amy relatable to every woman who does nothing for herself and everything for everyone else, the “momspringa” made me LAUGH. OUT. LOUD. Coming from Ohio and living in PA, I am no stranger to the Amish Rumspringa tradition. So reading the mom version word the very first time made me choke on my tea. I thought, this is genius.

Then there were so many areas I needed to highlight. Kelly Harms nails womanhood, and motherhood, above all else. There’s one passage (no spoiler, don’t worry) where she writes, “But it’s hard – looking ahead, seeing their mistakes coming, and then, unless they are in mortal danger, holding their hands as they make them anyway” in regards to letting your children grow up. Is that a good line or what? That was a beeline straight for my mom heart I tell ya. Harms writes the kids well with their personalities, especially the daughter Cori. She is smart with gumption. If she were real, she’d be a daughter to be proud of and reminded me of my own in a few years. And did I mention Amy is a librarian and booknerd?? I would like to be her friend, please.

Amy Byler’s life is long overdue and she deserves this time for herself. Laugh out loud funny, heart warmingly charming, with a sassy teenager to boot, The Overdue Life of Amy Byler is a fantastic read. Highly recommend

I received an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.

Although my kids are now grown and out of the house, I can remember those hectic days of trying to balance work and raising kids. There were so many days that I would just roll my eyes and say, "Calgon, take me away!" MOMSPRINGA?! That's brilliant! The Overdue Life of Amy Byler is a story that I think all mothers can relate to, whether they are married or single. I think at some point, we have all wished we could just get away from the day to day of raising kids and find that person we used to be. I enjoyed reading Amy's adventures in finding some "me" time and discovering herself once again.

Kelly Harms, Author of “The Overdue Life of Amy Byler” has written an entertaining, witty, delightful and engaging read. The Genres for this Novel is Fiction and Women’s Fiction. This story reminds me of the old Calgon commercial on television, where the wife/mother is having a difficult day, and says “Calgon Take Me Away”. I do know as a mother, wife, teacher, sister, daughter, daughter-in-law, pet/s parent, there were times that I wish someone would gift me some time off to recharge!! I can easily relate to the main character!. The author describes her characters as complex, complicated, and “NORMAL”**** people that we can relate to. (Whatever normal is)***

Amy Byler is a hardworking librarian-teacher and single mother raising her two children. In her job, Amy is trying to create a system of leveled reading materials that meet the individual reader’s needs. Most of all, this would encourage children that need remediation or enrichment to want to read. Amy and her children live in Rural Pennsylvania.

Amy’s husband who had disappeared for several years resurfaces and wants to be part of his children’s lives. He offers Amy the chance to have some time off, so he can get to know his children. Amy goes is able to go to New York City for a reading conference, and re-visit her girlfriend. Amy gets to also enjoy the cultural benefits, and people in New York. Is Amy going to want to go back to Pennsylvania?

Amy is living life, but has some major decisions to make for herself and family. I appreciate that Kelly Harms discusses the importance of family, and friendship, taking care of oneself, having emotional support, and having the courage for change. I would recommend this thought-provoking novel.

A love story to moms, books, readers & librarians....

Moms-get this book, and have a “mini-momspringa “ of your own!
What mom (and many dads) hasn’t dreamt of taking a break?! Because we live in the real world, who can really take a week/month/summer off? But even a little time with a book can be enough to recharge your batteries
This book is heartwarming, full of funny quotes, and should be read by almost every mom at some point-to remind you that it’s ok to take a break, it DOESN’T make you a bad parent. It makes you HUMAN! No, you may not be able to spend months in New York City like Amy Byler...but you can take 5 with this good book!

Three years ago, Amy's husband left her and their two kids. He left her with a big house, a large mortgage and no money coming in. She got a job and re-negotiated the mortgage but most important she created a strong family structure for her and her two children - teenager Cori and nerdy son Joe.
Oh sure, she got some sarcastic remarks from her daughter but she was a teenager so Amy handled it as needed. Then out of the blue, with no warning, her ex-husband shows up. He is full of guilt and realizes that he handled things wrong and he wants to spend time with his kids and develop a relationship with them. After lots of NOs, Amy breaks down and decides that she needs a vacation from being a full time mom. She goes to NYC and starts to create her life as a single woman with no children. She gets herself into some hilarious situations when she starts to date again and even when she is depressed, she is still funny. A huge tragedy sends her back home again and she has to decide which life she wants to choose -- or is there a way that she can have the best of both lives?

Amy spends her days like a lot of mothers - especially single mothers - taking care of everyone else and not worrying about themselves. When she has the opportunity to spend the summer by herself, she immediately says no because being a mom how she identifies herself. Once she saw what life was like in NYC, she decided that it was time to take care of herself. I sure can't blame her - we've all had those days that getting away from our current lives and disappearing into a new life would be a fantastic change.

Even though there are some serious issues in this book - it's a charming book with laugh out loud moments. You'll find yourself rooting for Amy throughout the book.

I laughed, I cried, I avoided doing some cleaning - all in all this book is a win. Amy Byler has been a single working mom since her husband left her and her two children 3 years ago. Imagine her surprise when he comes back filled with regret and wants to be part of their lives again. After much coercing Amy decides to give him a chance to reconnect with the kids while she goes to a conference in New York that turns into a full on "momspringa". Don't know what a "momspringa" is? Read the book - you'll want to go on one of your very own. This book is for any mom that has wanted to get away from it all for a few days. So really...it's for any mom.

LOL'd: Yes!
Ugly Cry Potential: Medium (you might be able to get away with this one in public if you don't mind a few sideways glances)
Unputdownable-ness: Medium-high
Perfect for: Any mom
Read this if you enjoyed: "I'm Fine and Neither are You" by Camille Pagan

Thank you to Kelly Harms and the #tallpoppywriters for letting me read an advance copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

This book was just fun. A wonderful story of a mother, still stung from the abandonment by her husband, and struggling to keep her young family together. When he returns to try and reconnect with his children, he gives Amy the time to attend a conference in NYC and spend time with her college roommate. That’s where she meets the “Sexy Librarian “.
Kelly Harms is a wonderful storyteller with likable characters and the humor and emotions of a page turner. A great beach read!
I really liked this book and thank Net Galley and Ballantine Books for the ARC in return for my honest review.

#Tall Poppy Reviewer

Kelly Harms is one of my favorite writers and once again she does not disappoint! This book tells the story of Amy who has been left by her husband to raise her two children alone for 3 years. Once her husband comes back into the picture again, Amy realizes she still has a life she needs to live.

This book is such a testament to the power of good female friends. Amy's friends encourage her to go out and rediscover herself again now that she doesn't have to be a full time mom for the summer. They give her good, honest and funny advice on how to put herself out into the world again.

Ms. Harms really touches on how being a mom is tied to our identities. She beautifully captures all the love, decision making and guilt that is involved. I loved seeing Amy come into her own as a woman, educator and love interest.

# Momspringa
Amy’s husband disappeared 3 years ago. He decided he needed a break. Amy has managed to keep the house afloat , raise 2 terrific kids, keep them in private school and take all responsibility and never have any time for herself.
Her husband suddenly is back and wants to be a good father and reconnect with her kids . He also claims Amy is “ stuck”
Hoping to help him have any relationship with his kids... she agrees to let him have them for a week.
She reaches out to an old college friend in NYC, thus starting her Momspringa ! A makeover for body, mind and life. I enjoyed this book, it was well written with relatable characters and many laughs along the way.
What would you do with a Momspringa ?

This book! Buy this book! Seriously. This book was so uplifting, joyous and plain old fun! I laughed at so many things and was so excited for overwhelmed single mom Amy as she explored her life and #Rumspringa in NYC.

I can't begin to tell you how good this was, you really have to find out for yourself. This book has everything and will leave you happy you read it. What more could you want?

Thank you very much to Netgalley, the author and publisher for approving my request for an ARC! All thoughts in this review are my own and freely given.

This book is everything you need in your life right now! This book is hilaroius, poignant and thought provoking. My favorite quote from the book is "I must never again forget to care for myself".

The protaganist, Amy Byler is a school librarian and single mom with two children, teenage years. Her exhusband had left them all 3 years ago but suddenly he is appearing out of nowhere wanting three months with the kids. All this leads of to Amy going on a "momspringa" in New York City.

I laughed so much during this novel and there are some definite "bookish" themes in the book with two of the characters are librarians.

The author has created such likeable characters that I found myself rooting for.
The fact is, I am not a mom, but this book is for EVERY woman in every situation. I loved it so much and I highly recommend it.

The Overdue Life of Amy Byler was a delight to read, captivating me from the very first sentence, and keeping me turning pages long into the night. Amy Byler's husband left her high and dry with two children, a big mortgage, and little money three years previous, and she has had to reinvent herself and her family for them to become thriving and happy. When he suddenly reappears and wants to devote himself to his children, Amy has to reinvent herself again! Amy's journey was poignant, touching, and at times, hilarious! The banter and dialogue between Amy and her friends, her kids, the hot librarian, and even her husband is sparkling and oh so witty!! There is a seriousness to this book, too, as Amy struggles with guilt and angst over her kids, and somehow trying to do the right thing for everyone, at the same time realizing how much she likes this new Amy that she discovers in NYC. As a certified bookworm, I loved that a lot of the book was devoted to books; the love of books, and getting kids to love books, and I loved that they used the word "unputdownable" to describe a book, because that's exactly what this book was-unputdownable! This is the first book I've read by Kelly Harms, but I'm going to go check out her backlist right now! #momspringa

Don't we all wish to be Amy at some point? To escape our life that's become so overwhelming that we've lost ourselves? She does everything for everyone and nothing for herself. Amy's husband John left three years earlier saying he needed a break and like that he went off to Hong Kong, leaving her to take care of their two kids, forced to take a job as a librarian at her kids private school, to continue to afford their life. One day John waltzes back in, expecting to pick up where he left off. Amy decides a bit of space in order and heads to NYC.. There she meets the "hot librarian" Daniel, but the feelings she has for him freak her out. When Amy's friend Talia asks her to participate in a makeover for her magazine, she reluctantly does. The story idea is titled #momspringa, similar to Amish teens rumspringa, rite of passage. Amy's #momspringa includes blind dates, hair & makeup, and workouts. Is Amy's real life overdue? Is it her time to shine? Will she find love? You'll be utterly charmed by this lovely book.

This book is hysterically funny! Amy through no fault of her own, finds herself a single mom. Her husband walks on his family. He has a new younger girlfriend and moves to Hong Kong. 3 years later, he returns and wants to reconnect with his children who are now teenagers. Amy goes to New York for the summer. Amy's entire life revolves around her children and for the summer it is all about Amy. As Amy rediscovers herself, the reader is taken along for the most hilarious ride. I loved this book and the characters. I received an advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for providing a copy for an honest review

This book is engaging, insightful and, at times, laugh out loud funny...sometimes in the same sentence!!!
The writing was wonderful. I've not read anything by Kelly Harms before, but I am now a fan! The plot was engaging, I could not put it down! I adored all the fun characters. Would go higher than 5 🌟 if I could!! Fully recommend!!