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I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue

I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie SueIn Natalie Sue’s debut novel, I Hope This Finds You Well, readers are thrust into the chaotic world of corporate life. With a cast of quirky characters and a narrative that oscillates between humour and heartache, this book is a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of office existence. Trainwreck comedy at it’s very best.

“All these people, with their thoughts floating so close, sitting beside one another in complete silence.”

The novel delivers laugh-out-loud moments that resonate with anyone who has endured the absurdities of office dynamics. But it’s not all frivolity; beneath the surface lies bitterness, hopelessness, loneliness, and grief. Sue fearlessly explores darker themes, including alcoholism and self-sabotage, making this more than just a light-hearted romp. The emotional relatability is palpable, capturing the normalcy of both joy and despair in our daily lives.

I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie SueMeet Jolene, our protagonist. Her poor choices and social anxiety make her frustratingly human. As she navigates office politics and confronts corporate culture, I found myself nodding in recognition. Whether you’ve worked an office job or not, Jolene’s struggles are universally relatable.

“I know what life I’m supposed to live; I have Pinterest. Obviously, this isn’t it.”

Sue’s writing strikes a delicate balance. The pacing is not too fast, allowing readers to savour each moment. The wit is peculiar and heartwarming, and the tension keeps you turning pages. The humour is funny because it’s true, yet it also ventures into the surreal. You’ll find yourself chuckling at absurdities that mirror your own experiences.

“Shit. This is already a toothpaste-out-of-the-tube situation.”

I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie SueThe novel’s diverse cast includes characters from immigrant communities, and Sue’s openness about mental health struggles and trauma adds depth. Compassion threads through the narrative, reminding us that behind every office facade lies a complex human story.

“The thing about annoyance is that once there’s a spark, you can find more things to stoke it.”

I Hope This Finds You Well is a wild, entertaining journey. It captures the real and raw moments we all encounter, blending tragedy and fun. So, if you’ve ever worked in an office, grab a glass of (South African) wine, settle in, and let Sue’s words resonate with your own experiences.

Thank you to Exclusive Books for this copy!

Published by HarperCollins Publishers / Jonathan Ball Publishers

About this book: I Hope This Finds You Well – Exclusive Books Online

Buy this book: I Hope This Finds You Well – Exclusive Books Online

About the author:  NatalieSue (nataliesuebooks.com)