In her captivating novel, "Begin Again," author Helly Acton takes readers on a journey with Frankie McKenzie, a woman who finds herself yearning for something more in life. Despite her seemingly comfortable existence, Frankie's inner discontent pushes her to question the missing piece in her puzzle of happiness. Is it a place to call home, the allure of travel, a more fulfilling career, or a meaningful relationship? However, before she can decipher the answer, tragedy strikes, and Frankie meets an untimely demise in a bizarre kebab-related accident, immediately following yet another disappointing first date. But Frankie's story doesn't end there. In a twist of fate, she is miraculously granted a second chance at life. Frankie is presented with the extraordinary opportunity to revisit pivotal moments from her past, enabling her to make different choices and explore alternate paths towards the fulfilling life she has always yearned for. With a multitude of possibilities laid out before her, Frankie contemplates various options. Should she indulge in the allure of warm Mexican waters alongside the seductive Raphael? Or should she accept the heartfelt proposal from her reliable university sweetheart, Toby? Alternatively, Frankie ponders the prospect of a worry-free existence within the gilded cage offered by Callum. And let's not forget the high-powered media career she once aspired to attain. As the narrative unfolds, readers are brought along on Frankie's journey to explore the different lives she could have led. Will she finally stumble upon her elusive Mr. Right? Or will she discover that the answers she seeks have been right in front of her all along? With each turn of the page, Frankie grapples with the question that plagues her repeatedly: What would she change if she could begin again? Helly Acton expertly weaves a compelling tale that delves into the universal human desire for self-discovery, growth, and fulfillment. Through Frankie's trials and tribulations, Acton prompts readers to reflect on their own lives and ponder the possibilities that lie dormant within the choices they have made. "Begin Again" is an enthralling novel that captures the essence of second chances and the profound impact our decisions can have on our lives. Acton's storytelling prowess keeps readers engaged, eagerly flipping pages to uncover the outcomes of Frankie's alternate paths. This book is a poignant reminder that life's journey is not merely about the destinations we reach, but the choices we make along the way. In conclusion, "Begin Again" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant work of fiction that will captivate readers who enjoy exploring themes of self-discovery, love, and the unending quest for fulfillment. Through Frankie's captivating journey, Helly Acton delivers a compelling narrative that encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and contemplate the potential for change and growth.

I really liked the premise of this book. I've always been interested in stories with magical realism and in this case with multiple realities.

I enjoyed seeing Frankie looked back at her life from different points and perspectives. The story teach us a few lessons and the importance of how life will always get better, no matter the adversities. Frankie got the change of begin her story again and again every single time and try to fix things which I feel like is something that most of us would like to do.

This whole idea of her of visiting five possible lives seemed incredible to me and it kept my attention most of the time.

My only critique is that I wished that the pacing wasn't as slow as it was but overall, I really enjoyed this story.

I stopped after chapter 2 (8%). The book is written in third person present tense, which conceptually skeeves me out (who is the narrator watching their every move?) but I thought the countdown to death was cool and would maybe knock us into past tense upon death. It definitely didn’t happen before the tense stopped being fun.

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the ARC.

#NetGalleyARC Who doesn't want the chance to redo their past? After falling and knocking her head extremely badly, catch my drift?, Frankie is given the chance to revisit 4 different paths in her life that could have changed everything for her. Frankie is super relatable and written like she could be you or your best friend. I love the idea of seeing how life could have changed for you, keeping in mind that hindsight is 20/20. A great read!

This was a fun enjoyable read! It reminded me of midnight library. I’ll definitely get this when it comes out!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC.
I enjoyed this book. It is like eight stories in one and each one was interesting and different. The transitions between the different what if scenarios were very well done. I like how Frankie has a point person in her afterlife journey and the banter between Mable and Frankie was amusing.

I liked this book a lot. I really was intrigued by the concept. I mean who wouldn't want to go back and explore the options of "what if". I really liked Mabel, her spirit guide, I guess you could call her.
I liked the different looks into what Frankie's life could have been.
I really liked her look at her family and growing closer with each of her parents through these experiences.
A book I will definitely be recommending.

Thanks NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC!

This was fun! Exactly the break I needed. It felt like a lighter version of the midnight library, with a dash of British humor and pep. It was a nice little story!

Read this one previously and enjoyed it so much! I'll be sharing more soon, but I love. How this book makes about you think about your life choices and the paths you take.