Despite her difficult childhood, Ava is a colorful, fun-loving girl who is highly optimistic. She has a close circle of friends and considers her dog, Harold, to be a family member. Although it is unclear at the moment what direction her life will take, she knows she wants to write a book. Also, she has sworn never again to use dating apps to find her perfect match. Matt is the opposite of Ava in more ways than one. But despite having a steady and well-paid job in his family’s firm, he is not happy.

"It will not spoil your reading pleasure to say that LOVE YOUR LIFE is an enjoyable, escapist read with a realistic and satisfying ending."

Ava and Matt meet accidentally in Italy. She is there for a writer’s retreat, which Matt has joined after his martial arts retreat is canceled. According to the group's rules, no one is allowed to use their real name or reveal any personal information. So Ava is Aria, and Matt is Dutch. It isn’t too long before they fall in love. But the romantic bubble bursts when they return to London. As they continue dating, Ava comes to the tough realization that they are probably wrong for each other. Their lifestyles and some of their viewpoints are completely different, and she fears it will be just a matter of time before their relationship goes south.

LOVE YOUR LIFE is a funny novel, but I felt a bit uneasy while reading it. It is so obvious that Matt and Ava are not a good match and that their relationship is doomed. Their love was an instant one. Isolated in beautiful Italy and far away from their daily problems, they were relaxed and did not know much about each other. Once they learn how enormous the differences between them are, there is no shortage of awkward moments. I experienced a roller coaster of emotions --- anxiety, sadness, happiness and joy --- as the book addresses such important topics as chronic illness, family tradition and living up to your parents’ standards.

Luckily, Sophie Kinsella is a wonderful writer and storyteller, and she keeps readers fully engaged and hopeful that Matt and Ava will be able to work through their issues. The supporting characters are fantastic and give a nice flavor to the story, although Harold is a bit much sometimes (and this is coming from a dog lover).

It will not spoil your reading pleasure to say that LOVE YOUR LIFE is an enjoyable, escapist read with a realistic and satisfying ending.