Book Review: Sunflowers in February by Phyllida Shrimpton

Funny story about the reading of this book. When I signed up to NetGalley it was in the first batch I requested. I got rejected and forgot about it until I was at the library the other week. I hadn't been planning to go at all but I had a return label to print and no ink at home so library it was (that was all a hassle in itself since they've changed the system and the computer wouldn't do what I wanted it to do but I got there in the end). Anyway after I'd done my printing I decided while I was there I'd take out a few books, one of the ones I picked up was 'Sunflowers in February' and I sort of recognised the title and the blurb sounded interesting. I took it over to check out and the machine told me I couldn't since it had a hold on it so I took it to the desk and was told it shouldn't even have been on the shelf but did I want to request it myself? Normally I would say no because there's a charge but double-checking the printing prices there was a note saying requests are free til June or July on a trial basis so I said yes. I wasn't expecting it for a couple of weeks but it was actually only a few days so popped round among other errands last Wednesday and I read it in a few days.

On to the review! I liked the idea of this book and the story drew me in but there was something missing. I think a lot of it was Lily herself, she didn't seem to have much personality beyond make-up, giggling, her boyfriend of 7 weeks (and one day *rolls eyes*) Nathan, and clothes. There is also mention of wanting to travel the world but no other ambitions. Later there is a brief mention of playing flute but only when relevant as a 'deus ex machina'.

The body snatch aspect was interesting but the whole thing seemed too focused on gender binary like boys are sports and mess and sex and no emotions and girls are giggling and hugs and pretty decor. There was too much much of Ben's friends giving him side-eye when Lily's 'girly' behaviours took over. Things like that brought the book down slightly.

Also Lily's obsession with Nathan was a bit too much, I kept expecting her to make Ben kiss him thus complicating things further. I do think the book was a real and genuine look at grief and how it affects families. I liked the idea of the after bucket list and the fact that Ben continued it was sweet.

Small note: I really did not like the 'ONe Shoe Sue' nickname, it seemed demeaning to me.

3/5 stars.

Stef Out x