The Stats

Title: The Unsinkable Greta James

Author: Jennifer E. Smith

Publisher: Ballantine Books (01 Mar, 2022)

Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Women’s Fiction, Contemporary, Chick Lit

Trigger Warnings: Death, Cancer

Read if you like: Daisy Jones and the Six, Behind the Music

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Thank you to The Unsinkable Greta James, Ballantine Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an electrical Advanced Review Copy of The Unsinkable Greta James. I received this copy in exchange of an honest review. All opinions mentioned in this review are my own.

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The Review

“The Unsinkable Greta James” by Jennifer E. Smith is a delightful and engaging novel that takes readers on a remarkable journey of self-discovery, family bonds, and personal triumph. In this captivating story, Greta James, a talented performer on the verge of losing her career, embarks on an Alaskan cruise with her estranged father – against the wishes of her manager and studio executives – the week before she needs to perform a career-saving set list at New York’s Gov Ball. The cruise, initially intended to celebrate her parents’ 40th anniversary, becomes a pivotal moment for Greta to reconnect with her father and rediscover herself amidst the vastness of the Alaskan tundra.

Having received a free copy on NetGalley over two years ago, I finally dove into “The Unsinkable Greta James” and was immediately drawn into its compelling narrative. The author’s writing style is engaging, allowing readers to effortlessly immerse themselves in Greta’s world. Although I read the ARC version on my Kindle, I felt compelled to purchase the novel as a Book of the Month add-on, acknowledging the value of the story and expressing my apologizes to Ballantine Books for not reviewing it sooner.

Smith excels at crafting a well-rounded and relatable plot, skillfully intertwining Greta’s personal struggles with her professional aspirations. The challenges Greta faces evoke empathy in readers, whether it be her journey through grief following her mother’s untimely death or her struggle to rekindle her passion for performing after a viral onstage breakdown. The author expertly balances these themes, making them universally resonant and relatable to a broad audience.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its authentic portrayal of complex family dynamics. Greta’s strained relationship with her father is explored with depth and sensitivity, allowing readers to understand the emotional weight carried by both characters. As the Alaskan cruise progresses, Greta’s journey of self-discovery unfolds, with the stunning backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness serving as a metaphor for her inner exploration and growth.

“The Unsinkable Greta James” is a testament to Smith’s ability to create multidimensional characters that feel real and evoke genuine emotion. Greta’s personal transformation is depicted in a compelling manner, and her resilience and determination become sources of inspiration for readers. Smith’s attention to detail in describing the Alaskan landscape adds a vivid and immersive quality to the story, transporting readers to the breathtaking tundra and enhancing the overall reading experience.

In conclusion, “The Unsinkable Greta James” is a captivating and emotionally resonant novel that showcases Jennifer E. Smith’s talent for storytelling. With its exploration of grief, family bonds, and the pursuit of self-discovery, the book offers a compelling narrative that will touch the hearts of readers. If you enjoy stories that combine personal growth, complex relationships, and a touch of adventure, “The Unsinkable Greta James” is a must-read. Jennifer E. Smith has crafted a remarkable tale that will leave a lasting impression