Perfect on Paper

Do you know that feeling when you walk into the room and no one notices your arrival? You then stand there in a corner, watching the life passing you by and becoming more and more invisible. Then you slowly shuffle towards the nearest exit to never be seen again...The feeling of being invisible can seemingly descend at us rather unexpectedly. In reality, it arrives along with the mundanity of everyday life. And the only way to be seen again is to get up from the spectator's seat and become an active participant in the folly of our existence.And this is precisely what the second novel by Gillian Harvey, Perfect on Paper, is about. It's a heartwarming story of Claire Bailey, a woman in her mid-30s who doesn't feel seen. Despite being a talented and overachieving property solicitor, she's not appreciated by her boss. Her husband, a rising TV star, is engrossed in advancing his media career, and her children treat her like a maid. Indeed, this is where many of us - regardless of gender - will find ourselves at some point in our lives. Absolutely no exceptions.Perfect on Paper is a relatable story in the spirit of good, British comedy-drama, generously sprinkled with a commentary on the situation of women in modern society. But also, it's a powerful insight into the power of reinvention. Because this, my faithful reader, is what often pushes us into that sense of invisibility. Being so busy with life that we almost elect to become invisible.The story is written with the feeling and insight of someone who has been there and done it. Harvey, a journalist and a mum of five kids, is a champion of reminding us that WE matter. All of us. The story of Claire and her journey to remind herself that she matters is simply a lesson in confidence without pomp and self-indulgence of the self-help industry. It's a very down to earth take on the notion of standing up straight and reminding yourself that you matter. Whoever you are.The style of Perfect on Paper is slightly less humorous than Gillian Harvey's debut novel, Everything's Fine. It's more thoughtful and geared towards reflection, but you'll still find yourself smiling to the page of this enjoyable page-turner. It reads well and provides a few laugh out loud moments, but more than anything, it may help you look at your life through the prism of who you are, who do you want to become, and how you can change those little niggles.

Just like Everything is Fine, from page 1 until the end this book makes you smile and laugh!There was so much I could relate to, although I'm not sure I'd follow the same path as Clare myself!!The characters are so well written, I could picture them all!I highly recommend this read!

Gillian Harvey has created a wonderful character with Claire Bailey. I loved her from the start and I could identify with her feeling like she's holding up her firm when she's at work and holding up the family when she's at home. I also could relate to her feeling, surplus to requirements and invisible too. I let out a huge 'YES' when she said, 'it just wouldn't hurt to hear somebody say thanks or pay me a bit of attention once in a while. Her character arc over the course of the book was brilliant and her transformation had me cheering from my armchair. I loved how her passion for poetry and taking a different bus started her awakening.This is an empowering story of someone who is taking back control of their life. I reckon this book could change a few of its readers' lives.There's a serious side to this book which I thought Gillian Harvey tackled really well. It is to do with Claire and her sister, Steph. I don't want to give the game away but I also identified with this too. So relatable.I loved this story because it was empowering and uplifting. It is also packed full of excellent life advice and comes with a good helping of Gillian Harvey’s humour. Read this and remember you are always a different bus journey away from a totally new life.

Claire Bailey's life looks perfect on paper, but in reality she seems like she's invisible to her husband, kids and her boss at the lawyer firm where she works. Invisible that is until on a whim she enters a talent contest and is propelled into the spotlight. Her act is empowering - and helps others to feel empowered too.Perfect on Paper is the perfect summer read, with great characters, great plot, and plenty of laughs. It's funny, relateable, and hopeful. I'd highly recommend it.

The book Perfect on paper was a brilliant.It was so well written that I could not put it down.The main character very strong and you could empathise with her and her daily challenges.Other characters in the book were very well portrayed. The storyline was fast moving and it kept you guessing the outcome till the very end.A very good read and I would definitely recommend it