Me Before You by Jojo Moyes: Book Review

This book is absolutely beautiful. It affected me so deeply, and it has taken some time for me to process it enough to write a review. I had no expectations going into it, other than my best book buddy said it was excellent. (She's always right.) Me Before You is the second 5-star book I've read this year, and I'm pretty stingy with my stars.

I really shouldn't tell you too much about the story. You need to read it with no preconceived notions. Will is a high-powered big shot who lives life to the fullest every day. He's successful, rich, handsome, and used to everything going his way. He's traveled all over the world, and always dates the most beautiful women. And then he has a tragic accident that leaves him without the use of his limbs. Enter his paid companion, Lou (short for Louisa). She's a small-town girl who has never been anywhere exciting, hasn't done anything exciting, and has no desire to do anything exciting. She's lived in the same town where she was born, still with her parents, and has stuck with the same, boring boyfriend for years. But she's content that way. Will is downright mean to Lou when she first starts her job as his companion/caretaker. But she tries to understand his anger and frustration, and she refuses to let him get her down. Eventually, her quirky, upbeat personality wins him over, and they forge a beautiful friendship. I won't tell you more.

There is a very controversial social/moral issue at the heart of this story, and I feel the author addresses it beautifully. You find yourself seeing and understanding both sides of the issue, and for me, it really made me question what I would do if put in that situation--either myself personally, or someone I loved and cared about. Moyes presented this issue without judgment and without being preachy or pushy, yet she moves you deeply and you care (and cry) before you even realize it. Bravo, Ms. Moyes!

Because the story is set in modern-day England, there was some British slang and references to things and places that had zero meaning for me. I ended up Googling and Urban Dictonary-ing several things, and I highly recommend you do the same if you find yourself a little confused. It makes a big difference.

Don't even go into this book thinking it's a romance. It's really not. It should be categorized as simply really good modern fiction. Don't miss it though. Truly one of the best reads of the year for me. Five stars without hesitation; I wish they were all this good.

Get your own copy of Me Before You on Amazon.

Read about the author, Jojo Moyes, on Goodreads.