Live a Little

by: Kim Green

Published by: 5 Spot (August 15 release)

Reviewed by Linda Lee
Raquel Rose has been diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer. Her family wants her to get better by showing love and attention in ways not seen for years. Even with the shadow of impending doom following her everywhere, she’s aware of the wonderful change in the way her children, husband, mother and talk-show-host sister treat her. A successful appearance on the show to raise money for a breast cancer charity makes her an instant celebrity. People recognize her, laugh with her, love her. She’s a hilarious breath of fresh air. Why does life get this good just before the axe drops?

The doctor calls to inform her it is another Raquel Rose who has the disease. It truly seems better, and easier, to lie by omission than to admit the cancer diagnosis was a mistake. Look at all the good she’s done raising big money for cancer research. The reaction from her friends and family makes her feel more loved, less taken for granted–even if her marriage is falling apart. Her art career is back on track, and how can she possibly give up the young surf instructor who has come into her life? Seriously, have you seen him?
With everyone believing her lies about treatment and symptoms, it becomes increasingly harder to face the truth. If everyone knew, would she have to go back to being second class? How deep a hole can she dig for herself? And how big a rock will she have to crawl under?

Kim Green writes genuinely funny. Raquel Rose is the bawdy friend from high school you needed for big laughs, even if she occasionally went overboard and you felt the need to dodge her. It’s easy to identify with this protagonist and her feelings of inadequacy and desire to be loved. It becomes harder as the story continues, although you find yourself pulling for her when she must face the moment of truth.

Kim Green puts a really light touch on a serious subject without trivializing it.

Armchair Interviews says: You’ll be telling friends about this book.

Author’s Web site: http://www.KimGreen.com