The A to Z of Everything

A Novel

by Debbie Johnson

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Pub Date Mar 10 2026 | Archive Date Apr 10 2026

Harper Muse

General Fiction (Adult) | Romance | Women's Fiction

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Description

“My darlings . . . Not to be too Hollywood about this, but if you’re watching this tape, that can mean only one thing: I have shuffled off this mortal coil . . . and you two are going to need each other more than ever. You need to set aside your differences and look out for each other—just like you always used to.”

Poppy and Rose used to be close as sisters could be—until everything went wrong. Now in their forties, they haven’t spoken in years. But when their vivacious, glamorous, powerhouse of a mother dies, they are both faced with the shock of grief. However, their mother was not one to go shrinking into the night. No, their mother, Andrea, has left them a project to work on together: a sort of scavenger hunt through their lives, which she calls the A to Z of Everything. Her final wish: to heal the fractured relationship between her daughters that broke her heart.

A is for Ashes. C is for champagne. D is for Daddy Issues. But when they get to F for Forgiveness, can they make a start, even when they can barely look at each other?

With Andrea’s wicked sense of humor and wild stories from her acting career, she has left the quest in a series of boxes filled with letters, recordings, videos, mementos, and instructions.

From Liverpool to London and even Paris, the sisters follow the trail toward a glimmer of hope: despite loss, there is room for laughter, love, and healing—and for second chances.

Available Editions

EDITION	Other Format
ISBN	9781400354726
PRICE	$18.99 (USD)
PAGES	384

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Additional Information

Average rating from 33 members

Featured Reviews

Ann B, Reviewer

A book that manages to be both heartbreakingly poignant and unexpectedly funny.

It’s a beautiful, honest study of grief and family dynamics that reminds you it’s never too late for a second chance.

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Zelda H, Reviewer

It’s a beautiful, uplifting reminder that it’s never too late for forgiveness. A perfect, five-star read that I didn't want to end!

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Deb G, Reviewer

I always enjoy Debbie Johnson's books, and this was no exception. A beautiful story about a mother's undying love, love and heartbreak between sisters, and the gift of a journey toward reconnection. And the reminder of how we never get over missing our mother once she is gone--I haven't.

Many thanks to Harper Muse and NetGalley for the advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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Tracy M, Librarian

This story has a simple premise, but the way the author weaves in stories, tasks, and emotion take it to another level.
Many people will be able to relate to the story of a family broken apart. It is hard to "forgive and forget". So it is even more remarkable seeing how to get through what's holding you back and moving forward in life.
This was done in a thoughtful and honest way while dealing with grief.
You will laugh. You will cry. In the end you will be glad you picked up this book.
Enjoy!

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Shirlynn B, Librarian

Reading The A to Z of Everything reminds one of how fragile and short life is. Too short for harboring regrets and holding grudges and withholding forgiveness. This book is a perfect gift for everyone who has siblings and loss someone to death. Wow! It is an eye-opener. Thanks so much for the ARC and an insight I will not forget.