Report of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated reminded me of A Man Called Ove, with a similar slow-building character arc set later in life for Spike. If you enjoy a slower paced story with thought-provoking moments on the topic of aging and personal relationships, then you should pick up this book!

3.75 🌟 rounded up

Usually, I am not drawn to feel-good stories, but they serve as nice palate cleansers here and there. This book certainly does that job. It's heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. I found Spike endearing, but honestly, his story ends up being quite depressing. Even though the ending is sweet, I still felt bad for him for wasting so much time in his life. It truly makes you reflect on what's important in life.

Peter Noble did the narration for the audiobook. He's a very experienced audiobook narrator and was perfect for this role.

Recommended for regular readers of feel-good fiction.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC.

Listen, I wasn’t prepared to cry over a reclusive hoarder named Ray “Spike” Thorns. I wasn’t emotionally braced for a man whose entire personality could be described as “grumpy garden shed with a tragic past” to stealth-waltz into my heart like some kind of elderly emotional assassin. But here we are. I laughed, I sobbed, I yelled “TELL HIM YOU’RE ALIVE, RAY” at my car stereo like it was a very niche, very British episode of “Unsolved Mysteries.” Audiobook Ray owns me now. And Peter Noble’s narration? Chef’s kiss. Give that man a BAFTA, a teapot, and a hug from me personally.

The setup is almost offensively good: Ray, a once-beloved school caretaker turned sad hoarder gremlin, gets mistaken for dead after his neighbor croaks on his doorstep. And instead of, you know, immediately going “hey lads, still breathing,” Ray stumbles face-first into an accidental existential crisis. Everyone thinks he’s dead. And it’s kind of… nice? Alarming, yes, but also weirdly cathartic? Because for the first time in ages, people are saying out loud what he meant to them. And Ray, bless his gentle repressed little soul, starts to wonder if maybe he mattered more than he realized.

Cue the emotional flashbacks, a decades-long love story that had no business wrecking me the way it did, and a family that’s just functional enough to make your chest hurt. There’s his nephew, who’s out here having full-on life epiphanies about how Uncle Ray was the blueprint for every decent choice he ever made. There’s "The Girl," and oh my god, when her name finally drops, I audibly gasped. We are talking maximum yearning, aged to perfection like a bottle of regret-flavored wine. And then there’s Ray’s mother, who is the human embodiment of an emotional sledgehammer wrapped in floral wallpaper. I would like to push her gently into the sea. Respectfully.

The beauty of this story isn’t just in the big feelings (though there are MANY and they are LOUD), it’s in the way James Goodhand doesn’t flinch from the mess. Ray doesn’t suddenly become some shiny, social butterfly. He’s still awkward. Still unsure. Still hoarding newspapers like they hold the secret to time travel. But he changes. Slowly, painfully, beautifully. And the book never lies to you about how hard that is, how long it takes, how much you have to want it. It doesn’t offer magical fixes, but it gives you something better: hope with dirt on its hands.

Also, shoutout to the scenes where Ray is lurking in his own house while his family cleans it out like he’s a ghost with unresolved emotional laundry. I was DYING. (Too soon? Ray would approve.)

And let’s talk about that narration. Peter Noble is Ray. He nails the tired whimsy, the quiet ache, the very specific flavor of British sadness where you apologize for existing but also fix people’s fences out of spite. His voice makes you want to call your dad, cry into a mug of tea, and hug every awkward janitor you’ve ever met. Honestly, he could narrate my tax returns and I’d be like “wow, that was profound.”

Is it a little slow at the start? Sure. Do you occasionally want to grab Ray by the shoulders and shout “SIR, YOU ARE NOT ACTUALLY DEAD, FIX THIS”? Also yes. But that’s the point. This is not a fast-paced romp. This is a quiet, gut-punch of a story about a man learning to live by accidentally watching his own eulogy play out in real time.

4.5 stars. Because while the beginning meanders a bit and some plot stuff leans a tad too tidy at the end, I’d forgive this book for setting my house on fire if it meant I could spend another hour with Ray.

Whodunity Award: For Mistaken Identity That Made Me Emotionally Unravel in Public

Huge thanks to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for the advanced listening copy. I came for the mistaken identity chaos, stayed for the emotional sucker punch, and left sobbing in the produce aisle like a feral romantic.

Life tip: if you ever get accidentally declared dead, make sure your narrator is Peter Noble and your regrets come with a side of redemption.

I love the idea of this and the execution was even better. In the beginning, I wondered how Spike came to be the way he was. He seemed so defeated and uninvolved with the world. Then when his neighbor dies and events start to unfold, I learned about all the big and little things that made him who he was.
This book is just perfect. There aren't any miracles, people don't suddenly change who they are, but redemption comes from a change in perspective. I laughed, I cried, I wanted to meet these people. The narration was amazing.

This was a surprise. I randomly picked this up based on the synopsis and I'm glad I gave it a chance. I had a good time listening to this one. It was similar in vibes of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife and A Man Called Ove with a mix of It's a Wonderful Life---all things I have enjoyed. Our main character Ray was for a lack of a better phrase a "ray of sunshine" even though he was dealing with a lot of heavy things in his life he always looked on the bright side of things. While it was predictable in it's execution it was still worth the time. I think I will check out more by this author.

The only thing to note is it's heavy on the British slang so sometimes the meaning was lost in translation.

A wonderful story in the UpLit genre that I so love. Beautiful, simple and heartwarming, the story discusses love, death and reflecting on one's life. Ray is a very memorable protagonist who will stick with me or a long time.

This book was an absolute delight. It had so many of my favorite things—from elderly protagonists to second chances to a quiet life whose gentle ripples have had an unexpectedly large impact.

Ray is so easy to love. (His, mother on the other hand, is a piece of work, and his unfailing devotion to her at extreme cost will break your heart.) He has been hurt so deeply, but has never hurt others in turn. However, he has missed out on so many years of living.

Ironically, the thing that just may change that is a case of mixed-up identity, leaving everyone thinking Ray is now dead.

This book is full of humor and heartbreak, so get ready to both laugh and cry. I loved it, and it will have a special place on my “beloved books with seasoned protagonists” list.

The audio is very well done, and I was so glad to have it along with my e-ARC so I could keep up with Ray, even when I couldn’t sit down with a book!

In Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated, the main character, Ray Thorns, graciously invites a neighbor to visit his home to warm up when his electricity is shut off, but the neighbor collapses and dies on Ray’s front step while Ray is out. The adventure begins when the neighbor is found and assumed to be Ray.

Assumed dead, Ray’s estranged family receives a condolence card from his former employer, a posh, private boy’s school. When Ray is unable to quickly right the situation, he panics and goes into hiding when his family comes to sort out his belongings, and we readers become privy to Ray’s life as his past and present collide.

James Goodhand’s novel is a heartwarming blend of humor, regret, and second chances. I was caught up in Ray’s nostalgia as his family combs through not just his hoarder-size piles of newspapers and magazines, but also the love letters he kept 40 or more years after the love of his life left him. I thoroughly enjoyed the hilarious reveal that Ray is in fact, not dead. Ray’s nephew is a fabulous secondary character, and the reveal of how much Ray influenced his life choices touched my heart.

As Ray’s family takes on the task of correcting the situation, Ray rediscovers all of life’s pleasures that he has been foregoing since his retirement twenty years prior. Reclusive Ray is figuratively born again and renewed in his new found appreciation of the life his has lived and the experiences yet to come.

This tender novel is a meaningful reminder that even the smallest of kindnesses can have resounding ripple effects.

Ended my listening with tears rolling down my face. What an uplifting, heartfelt book.

Ray Thorns has had an interesting life, but things haven't gone as planned. A former caretaker and helper at an exclusive boys' school, he's content living out his remaining days as a reclusive hoarder in the same home where he grew up. One day his neighbor comes to visit and drops dead in Ray's home, starting a cascade of events which have Ray declared as the one who died, much to his dismay. Even though Ray attempts to correct the wrong information, no one seems to believe him.

I just loved Ray, and as the story progresses we flash back to the past and the events and the people who shaped his life, love, and family. In some ways, this book reminded me of The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife, which is similarly themed (although completely different).

When we get to the end and everything culminates together, as I said before I had tears streaming down my face. If only we could know how our lives touch the lives of others, would that affect and change the way we interact with each other? This book gives a lot to think about.

I listened to this as an audiobook, and I absolutely loved Peter Noble, the narrator. He gave Ray such an authentic voice and demeanor, sometimes I even forgot that it wasn't really Ray who was narrating.

Overall this book is touching, emotional, and thought provoking. It is well worth reading, and then give it to a friend.

Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated by James Goodhand is beautifully written book about Ray “Spike” Thorns, a retired school grounds keeper, who is stuck in life until an encounter with his neighbor upends the patterns of his daily existence. Ray is a flawed and likeable character. I found myself engrossed in the mystery of his story, frustrated by Ray’s passivity, and entertained by the hijinks he is thrown into. The narrative is told through first person narration performed by Peter Noble. He does a great job capturing the character to the point that you feel he is Ray. If you like a book about second chances later in life, this one is for you.

Thanks NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for allowing me to have an advanced listening copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you NetGalley for the Arc!

What a beautiful and heartwarming story. Its filled with the what if’s , reflection and love. The main character is a relatable person. By mistake people think he has died and because of this he starts reflecting on the life he has and his relationship with his long lost love, his brother, nephew and mother.
Completely recommended

What a wonderful story! This uplifting, touching book was beautiful and I loved it!

Ray Thorns is an elderly man living alone with nothing to look forward to. He has never been married, never had children and until recently, took care of his mother. With no friends or family that seem to care for him, Ray invites a lonely neighbor to his house for dinner. As he runs to pick up food for their dinner, he returns to see ambulances and police cars at his house. His neighbor has died at Ray’s home and the authorities believe it is Ray. A case of mistaken identity turns into a weeklong new lease on life. As Ray thinks back to his past and relationships missed, he decides to change the life he is living before it’s too late.

Thank you, Net Galley and Harlequin Audio, for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. The narrator, Peter Noble, was perfect for the voice of Ray. The story was encouraging and a reminder to prioritize relationships and family. I will recommend this to all my reader friends who love a heart-melting book that reminds us to be kind and appreciative of the mentors in our lives. #NetGalley #ReportsOfHisDeathHaveBeenGreatlyExaggerated @HarlequinAudio

Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated is an inventive and entertaining ride, blending dark humor, mystery, and just enough emotional weight to keep things grounded. James Goodhand delivers a story that doesn’t take itself too seriously, while still offering moments of sharp insight and intrigue.

The premise itself is unique and immediately pulls you in; there’s something delightfully off-kilter about a narrative that dances between absurdity and sincerity. The pacing was solid, and the audiobook narration carried the tone perfectly, striking a balance between wit and tension.

While some sections felt a little too drawn out or overly quirky for my taste, the overall experience was fun, fresh, and satisfying. It’s a story that plays with expectations and isn’t afraid to get weird in the best way.

A solid 4 stars. Perfect for readers who enjoy mystery with a twist of eccentric charm.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Now this book is a proper balance of humorous, sweet, wistful, and nostalgia. Ray finds himself, through no fault of his own, declared dead when his neighbor dies in his house and is mistakenly identified as Ray. Ray, being a very sweet and not wanting to be any trouble (which is sweet but also a bit annoying especially as people brush him off when he tries to figure out how to make them believe he is alive). There are glimpses of his history during this time of contemplation, both good memories and bittersweet ones of lost loves and what could have beens which make this a delightful journey (with a bit of hatred for his mum) as you get to see what a difference he has made to so many people, working behind the scenes both at the school and then with his nephew and others. This story left me with a nice, warm feeling and how important it is to let people know they are loved and wanted and not forgotten. And that it is never too late for second chances, even if forty years go by!

I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook! The narrator, Peter Noble, did a wonderful job in bringing Ray to life (because he is definitely not dead, despite what the newspaper announcement says!) and letting all of us readers find out what a great man Ray is.

I wasn't so sure about this book after the first couple of chapters, realizing this wasn't going to just be a funny tale about a case of mistaken identity, but a sometimes depressing look back on a man's life. I'm so glad I stuck with it because I ended up loving it! The journey through the Ray's life felt at times like it was never going to get better, yet the author surprised me in the best kind of way. I most definitely cried, something I don't do often with books. In short, it was a lovely surprise, and one of my best listens so far in 2025.

I think this book will appeal to people who like Fredrik Backman, books about older people looking back at their lives, and stories that all come together nicely at the end.

The narrator did a fantastic job, and I'd gladly listen to more of his work.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ALC and give an honest review!

I am incoherent. Literally been sobbing for the last half hour. What an absolutely beautiful book, I genuinely can't remember the last time a book touched me this much. Narrated beautifully, and the emotion threaded through this book is just. I genuinely can't find the words. It is incredible, one of my best reads of 2025 so far, possibly THE best read. It took me a little bit to get into it but I adored it and need everyone to go read it right now.

I listen to two or three audiobooks each week, and I've discovered that it can be challenging to transition to a new audiobook after being immersed in the captivating world of a great story. Because of this, I’m always eager to give a new audiobook a fair chance before deciding it’s not for me.

I've realized that while a narrator can be truly exceptional, sometimes the story they’re conveying simply doesn’t resonate with the listener. Unfortunately, that was the case with this particular audiobook.

Thank you opportunity to listen to this audiobook

I picked up Reports of His Death Have Been Greatly Exaggerated by James Goodhand when I was in the mood for something grounded and easy to listen to, what I call a “human story.” No sci-fi or fantasy elements, just the down-to-earth unravelling of one man's life.

The audiobook is outstanding. The narrator brings just the right tone and inflection to the text, making it feel like he’s telling his own story rather than reading a script. I listened to the first 70% in one sitting and finished the rest the same day. I just had to know how it ended. I was utterly hooked, needing to fill in the blanks between past and present and understand the lead character’s present-day predicament.

The structure of the book allows the story to unfold effortlessly, striking a balance between reflection and emotional depth, while maintaining a real sense of momentum. It reminded me in many ways of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman, maybe not as overtly humorous, but just as full of heart.

I especially loved that this was told from the perspective of an older protagonist. We don’t often get stories where older characters are given the spotlight with the depth and nuance they deserve. Too frequently, they’re side characters or stereotypes, but here we’re given a window into a lifetime of wisdom, regret, and resilience. It was refreshing and moving.

Highly recommend if you're looking for a story that feels deeply personal, reflective, and quietly powerful.

Oh gosh I loved this! I was expecting a story with a funny mix up, but I also got a story that was charming and heart warming, and made me tear up at the end. I thought the narrator was perfect and did a great job bringing the wholesome old man main character to life. If you want a bit of "O Captain, My Captain!" in your life, pick this one up!! 4.5 stars rounded up.

I really enjoyed this book even though it was a slow start. The narrator did a fabulous job of emoting Ray's "aww shucks" good-heartedness while not villainizing the women in his life. Rather, the reader/listener was able to draw their own conclusions about them as the present story, as well as the history, unfolded. It was hard not to feel sorry for Ray and his life un-lived but I appreciated the touching ending to his story.