Hilarious (If In An Absurdist/ British Manner) And Heartwarming. I'm going to do this review in two parts, because there is a very key similarity between this book and a (possibly now somewhat obscure) movie that was at one time decently well known - but to reveal which movie is a *massive* spoiler.

So here's the spoiler free part:

This book is going to make you laugh. It is going to make you cry. It is going to make you reach out to speak with and hold those closest to you, and it is going to make you think about your own life. And it is going to do all of that via allowing you to see through the eyes of a loner recluse that nobody gives a damn about who happens to be mistaken for a dead neighbor. Goodhand does another amazing job of telling a story in such a low key way, yet managing to hit exactly the notes he seems to have been going for. Truly an awesome story that will be a great counter weight to both the bubble gum pop or hyper macho action books you're reading this summer as well as the extreme dark horror tales some (weirdos - joking, to be clear) look to this time of year or even the nonfiction books that a lot of ppl seek to read in the summer. And yes, guys, put down the nonfiction and read this book. It is absolutely for you, and you're going to be able to have quite a bit of "teh feelz" in a safe space with this book. Ladies, don't let the last sentence fool you, you're going to enjoy this book at least as much as the guys, as there is quite a bit here for you too - just not quite as prominent, more in the sub story with some stuff that is going on throughout the book.

And now... the spoilers. DO NOT READ BELOW HERE IF YOU DO NOT WANT SPOILERS. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

Giving.
People.
Who.
Don't.
Want.
To.
Be.
Spoiled.
Time.
To.
Leave.

Ok, at this point I've given everyone's eyes a chance to leave before you read what I say next, so HERE COME THE SPOILERS.

<spoiler>Mr. Holland's Opus has to be one of my favorite movies of all time. Its final scene in particular, where Mr. Holland comes to school ostensibly to pick up his last remaining boxes from his classroom after a lifetime of teaching at this school, only to hear some noise coming from somewhere... then following it to find an auditorium full of his former students and colleagues, all there to celebrate him... simply phenomenal.

If you love that movie, and particularly that scene, as much as I do... well, you're already in the spoiler section of this review. Suffice it to say, without giving *everything* away, that there is a very similar scene here, and it is just as phenomenal as that one. *Maybe* even a touch better. I don't *know* that Goodhand was aware of this scene, but it at least seems possible.

Now, my job as a reviewer is to both describe my experience with a book and, ultimately, to try to help sell it, even on books I absolutely detest. So particularly when a book was as excellent as this one, I need to talk about the things that I think could help it sell, and thus I *needed* to mention this movie. Plus, I couldn't help but immediately think of that movie as the scene here was playing out, so I'm also being true to my own experience with the book in mentioning it. But I do know it is a massive spoiler, so it has been embedded in these spoiler tags.</spoiler>

And.
Now.
We.
Come.
Back.
Out.
Of.
The.
Spoilers.

Ultimately, this was truly an excellent book that I think most anyone will truly have a great time with, and in the lower half of the 300 page range, it isn't a tome that will take weeks to read either, so it should be accessible to most readers.

Very much recommended.

I’m here today as part of the Harper-Collins blog tour for this new novel: Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated by James Goodhand. I went into this one not really knowing what to expect, and I ended up really just loving this story. The main character, Ray, is thought to be dead (due to mistaken identity) and this gives him a chance to see how his life looks like to others and what others think of him. Coupled with flashbacks of his younger life we see how he came to be the gentle, reclusive individual he is. At times, this story reminded me of the writing of Fredik Backman, whom I really enjoy. I had read Goodhand’s The Day Tripper and enjoyed that as well.

Loved this one — and I hope you do, too!

Thank you for my copy and for the opportunity to join the tour!

England.

Ray “Spike” Thorns is a retired groundskeeper and lives like a recluse with a hoarding problem. When his neighbor dies on his doorstep, a case of mistaken identity ensues, and everyone assumes Ray has died. As his family plans his funeral and the condolences roll in, he is forced to face his own death and decides to put some things right before his funeral. During this process, we learn more about Ray’s background, career, and reputation.

The more that is revealed about Ray, the more we love and admire him! He’s one of the good guys! We discover that he lived a quiet yet meaningful life, and he touched others with his thoughtfulness, generosity, kindness, benevolence, generous spirit, and encouragement. He’s a difference maker in his unique way.

Reminiscent of The Borrowed Life of Fredrick Fife, mistaken identity is always an entertaining and engaging trope. Now that the news of his demise has spread, an obituary written, a funeral planned, his possessions sorted, and condolences received, how will he rewind all this? How can he explain himself? How does he prove he’s not dead? What about the other family?

Maybe it would benefit all of us to read our own obituary and contemplate our own funeral while we are living. Ray discovers that people regard him highly and that he has been a positive influence on many lives. He gains a new and improved sense of self and purpose for his remaining days. Our first impression of him changes as we realize he’s not a hoarder but a giver. Acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on people with whom you interact. I admire the way the author reveals Ray’s character, and by the lovely and satisfying conclusion, you can tell that the author loves him.

Content Consideration: a sprinkling of profanity

Fans of quirky, humorous, and unique stories will enjoy adding Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated to their TBRs. Perfect light and thoughtful weekend reading.

Thanks #NetGalley @HTP_Books / MIRA for a complimentary eARC of #ReportsOfHisDeathHaveBeenGreatlyExaggerated upon my request. All opinions are my own.

Ray “Spike” Thorns is a wonderfully complex protagonist—gruff, awkward, and weighed down by the life he didn’t quite live. But as he confronts the reactions of those who think he’s gone for good, a quiet transformation begins. The brilliance of this book lies in how it takes a surreal premise—being declared dead—and uses it to unearth something achingly real: the way we’re remembered, the chances we didn’t take, and the relationships we never quite mended.

The story unfolds with tenderness and dark whimsy, gracefully balancing humor with emotional depth. Spike’s encounters—with old friends, long-lost love, and the person he used to be—are written with a sharp eye and a generous heart. His hesitation to correct the mistake speaks volumes, and his slow reckoning with the life he’s led is both heartbreaking and hopeful.

Ultimately, this story is about getting one last chance, not at fame or reinvention but at connection, clarity, and closure. For anyone who’s ever wondered what their absence might mean to the people they’ve left behind or what it would take to step back into the light, this novel is a quiet masterpiece. It is a moving and memorable reminder that it’s never too late to show up in your own life.

The publisher provided ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Recluse Ray, also known as Spike, lives in his hoarder home and no longer communicates with any of his family or friends. One day, his neighbour comes calling and dies at Spike’s front door. The police, paramedics, and even the doctors at the hospital mistake him for Spike. When Spike tries to fix this mistake, he has to relive his past and come to grips with how and why he became who he is now and how he lives.

This was such a moving story about a mix-up that ends up being funny and heartwarming in equal measure. There is a lot of reflecting on Spike’s part, but he also gets himself into some hilarious situations trying to right the mistake. Through the unexpected encounters he has with people along the way, Spike starts to understand how the smallest of kindnesses can mean a lot. Spike carries a lot of weight on his shoulders, most of it remorse, but he slowly starts to come into his own and sees himself for what he is. This was written in such a tender and realistic way.

I love how the book shows that second chances can happen. Spike is on a journey, but it isn’t this big to-do; it’s the simple pleasures and gestures that can change us. Don’t get me wrong, while very heartwarming, this book is not saccharine in its sentimentality, and I liked that. I loved reading about Spike and his regrets; it is real and raw, and honest. What I took away from the book is the fact that Spike had to “die” to be able to come alive again. Overall, this book is beautifully written, funny, honest and a reminder that we should make the best of life before it’s too late. All. The. Stars.

I requested this based mostly on the title and the fact that it’s compared to Dead Poets’ Society, It’s a Wonderful Life, and A Man Called Ove. What a combination! I was pretty sure I was going to love it. Still, I was pleasantly surprised by how sweet, heartwarming, and gently funny it is! It definitely lives up to the comparisons. But with a lot less, um, life-ending ideation? There are sorrows and tragedies involved, sure, but Ray is a diehard optimist, which is refreshing.

You know how sometimes you read a book that you want to love, but every character feels the same? This book is very much not that. Every character, even the ones that only play a one-page role, is fully developed and has quirks and a speaking style all their own. These characters LIVE. Especially Ray. He’s one of the most endearing characters I’ve read in a long time. Sometimes you’ll want to shake him for being too naive or humble or oblivious… but hug him after, please. He’s so sweet!

The plot itself is kind of predictable and almost corny, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In this case, it’s comforting. You can pick Reports of His Death up knowing that you’re probably going to be moved to mushy tears at least once, and that a sweetheart like Ray could never be as unnoticed in life as he believes himself to be. Goodhand writes Ray’s perspective in such a way that the reader can see what’s really going on around him even as Ray convinces himself otherwise, and it’s brilliantly done. The pacing of the story in the present combined with flashbacks to the past is also pretty near perfect. There’s a lot to love about this book.

My only complaint is that I wish there hadn’t been swearing in it. I’d love to recommend it to my septuagenarian parents, but I know my mom would throw it out at the second f-bomb. In such a feel-good, wholesome book, there’s really no need for it. I feel like it’ll just limit its circulation, because the people who would love this book the most would avoid it for that reason. That makes me sad, because it’s a lovely story.

In conclusion, this is a gentle, wholesome story for anyone who loves a heartwarming tearjerker. Brilliantly written, but beware of the occasional f-bomb if that’s not your cup of tea.

The title alone already made me curious about Reports Of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated, and then I saw the comparison to Fredrik Backman's writing and I simply couldn't resist adding it to my shelves. Then again, I do always have a weak spot for stories featuring an older main character... And Ray's situation sure sounded like it would provide for a very interesting read indeed. I have to say that I ended up having such a great time reading this book!

This is one of those books where it's best to go in blind and simply let the story wash over you. While there is definitely humor in Reports Of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated especially in the present timeline, there are also many flashbacks to Ray's past that focus on more serious topics. Ray's relationship with his mother is difficult to read about, especially since he himself doesn't see how toxic it is... Thankfully the plot is well balanced out with lighter moments. This is a story about second chances after all, where Ray's current situation serves as an eye-opener an an opportunity for redemption.

I think one of my favorite aspects of the story was Ray's job as a caretaker, and the many lives he touched during his time working at the boarding school. The impact of his quiet actions comes to light in the final part of this story, and I thought this was such a beautiful way to end Ray's journey. The humor in the present timeline really helped balancing things out, and the tone was just right for me. This is also a story of reconnecting with the past and people close to Ray... Another aspect I really enjoyed.

The only thing I wasn't really that big of a fan of was Ray's complicated relationship with Junie as well as his mother; certain parts of the flashbacks were quite repetitive and this slowed down the pace. I wasn't a fan of either woman to be honest, but I understand the focus on both their roles in Ray's life as they had a huge impact. I could have done without the love triangle as well, which honestly reflected badly on both Junie and Ray's brother and only made me like them even less.

Minor blips aside, Report Of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated has proven to be a wonderful journey with an ending that will make you forget about the slower parts in the middle. I did prefer the present timeline over the flashbacks, although I did love the parts focusing on his job as a caretaker... Ray will win over your heart long before the final page, and I will be looking forward to read more of James Goodhand in the future.

this was a really well written novel and had that concept that I was looking for from the description. The characters were everything that I was hoping for and enjoyed in this type of book. The plot was everything that I was looking for and thought the concept worked in this universe and glad it was everything that was promised. James Goodhand has a strong writing style and am excited for more.

very well written book about dealing with your own mortality and handling your own future. it was very interesting. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.

My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA. I'm voluntarily leaving a review.

Genre: General Fiction, Realistic Fiction, Women's Fiction, Books That Make You Cry, Slice of Life
Language: Peppered with profanity, including F-bombs
Spice Level: Sex is talked about and written about but not in a particularly titillating manner
Representation: Gay side character
Format: Dual time periods handled in flashbacks

REPORTS OF HIS DEATH HAVE BEEN GREATLY EXAGGERATED wraps you in the world of one man.

What is the legacy of a person? Not someone remarkable, powerful, or famous, but someone ordinary who is kind?

I agree that there are shades of *It's a Wonderful Life* and *A Man Called One* in this book. When we delve in deeply, we learn so much. Our lives are nuanced. This book is thoughtful and insightful.

It's interesting that there is one relationship that is not explored in detail in this book. It's touched on by others but not Ray, the main character. Yet, this is so typical of him.

I believe bookclubs and readers of slice of life stories will enjoy this book. Keep a few tissues handy.

Happy reading!

This story follows Raymond Thorns, who is stuck in a rut of routine until his neighbor dies of a heart attack in his home, throwing his life into chaos, and reminding him
what it means to actually live.

Raymond as a character was lovely to follow. He’s a protagonist with a genuinely good heart and a catchphrase that is calm and collected (“steady on”). His nephew, Stephen, was also a standout for me. There are characters with a lot of heart, navigating a story about remembering to live in the present.

I did think some of the relationships were a little convoluted, including the many ties Raymond has to Junie, and Raymond’s difficulty grasping the manipulative nature of his codependent relationship with his mother. The plot took some directions that I was not expecting and the build up to his forced retirement was a letdown in the reveal, but overall, the book had a lot of spirit.

I really enjoyed Reports of His Death...The characters, especially Spike, are loveable and relatable. The storyline is interesting. It's all about opportunities lost and then found. If you like a feel-good novel with a little stress in the process, you'll also love this book.

Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated by James Goodhand ⭐⭐⭐⭐

MIRA Books
Pub Date: 7-1-25

Thank you @netgalley, @_mira_books_, and @james.goodhand for the opportunity to read this eARC.

"How had this happened? How did I get here? Cowering in my own cupboard, as my brother and his wife inspect my home, my belongings, my life. All because I invited a neighbour in to warm up, have a spot of tea? And now there’s talk of a funeral. A funeral, for crying out loud!"

A simple act of kindness soon leads to quite a misunderstanding -- specifically, the reported death of the main character, Ray.

Ray's story alternates between present and past. While present-day Ray is a relative recluse - and presumed dead - glimpses into his past reveal he once had deep, meaningful relationships, and that a few different choices might have led to a very different life. Is it too late?

A sweet, thoughtful story about how small gestures and everyday choices can shape the course of a life in ways not always realized. A story of love and of embracing life.

"How much life do we lose, withholding the best of everything for some notional special occasion? We surround ourselves with the things we love, that we worked for, only to save them for best. A dazzling spring dawn on the rise, and being alive. Maybe there are no bigger days."

I had a tough time connecting with this story... I wanted to like it - loving both the title and the cover art - but just couldn't find my way into the storytelling style. I felt oddly disconnected from the characters. This one wasn't a good fit for me.

When Ray's neighbor has a heart attack in Ray's home, a misunderstanding by the ambulance crew leaves everyone thinking Ray himself has died rather than his neighbor. When his estranged family comes to clean out his house, Ray is forced to revisit his past. This was really good. I liked Ray a lot, especially his past stories of working as a caretaker at a boarding school, and I enjoyed the ending a lot. 4.5 stars rounded to 4.

This book grabbed my attention solely based on the title. I am glad that it did. James Goodhand beautifully explores the complexity of life. Love lost, time lost, friendship, heartache as well as the impacts and aftermath of codependency within a mother and son relationship.

This beautiful story is a reminder not only to live life fully and in the present but also to love those in our lives and be present, while we have the opportunity to do so.

Publication July 1st, 2025

I had this opportunity to read an ARC copy of this book. Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley.

A cute little book that got me thinking. It flows easily and handles such deep things with hope and leaves you feeling optimistic about the lives you touch, knowingly or otherwise.

Full review to come.

This is a feel-good story with a unique and interesting plot. If you're looking for a heartfelt read that will make you smile, here you go!

Ray is a bit of a hoarder and a hermit, but he’s also humble and kind. So when a neighbor he hasn’t spoken to in years shows up needing help, Ray doesn’t hesitate—he lets him in, makes him some tea, runs him a bath, and even heads out to pick up takeout. Unfortunately, that neighbor dies, and due to a simple mix-up, the community mistakenly believes that Ray is the one who passed away. Rectifying that misunderstanding proves to be more complicated than he expects.

The plot is easy to follow and engaging, with a nice pacing that keeps the story moving. Ray is an endearing character, and I enjoyed many of the others as well. However, I found myself a bit frustrated with his love interest, Junie, at times—though that arc did add both tension and tragedy to the story.

The book explores themes of abandonment, lost opportunities, mentorship, and the complex bond between mothers and sons.

One of the things I loved most was its reminder to keep moving forward, even when it feels like the best of times are behind you. Ray's journey shows us that if you spend too much time looking back, you might miss the good that’s still ahead.

I also appreciated how Ray embodies the power of small acts of kindness. Simply listening, offering patience, and giving people the space to grow into the best version of themselves can be far more transformative than rushing to judgment and. offering criticism.

I read most of this book in one sitting on the train and smiled when I finished. If you’re looking for something cozy and uplifting to fall into while your tea goes cold beside you, I highly recommend it.

A wonderful feel-good book that kept me guessing and wondering and turning pages. It's rare that a book makes doing good without the hope of reward look appealing, but this book did just that.