The Last List of Mabel Beaumont – by Laura Pearson – independent book review – Fiction

THE LAST LIST OF MABEL BEAUMONT is a lovely, feel-good story — though it doesn’t appear that way at the start. Awarded four stars on Goodreads.

At the beginning of the novel, author Laura Pearson introduces us to Mabel and Arthur, a British couple who have been married for 62 years. Mabel has always thought Arthur seemed happier in their union than she has felt. She often reminisces about an earlier time, in her 20s, when she was happily part of a foursome: Mabel, her best friend Dot, Mabel’s brother Bill, and Bill’s best friend Arthur. They did everything together and had wonderful times.

But when unforeseen events ended that foursome, Mabel abruptly lost touch with Dot and wound up married to Arthur. And, from then on, Mabel held onto some big secrets, living a narrow, though safe and satisfactory life.

Now, in her 80s, another big event winds up changing Mabel’s life again, forcing her to think about how she wants to live out her remaining years. Does she want to continue as she has? What changes are still possible this late in life? Is it time to share her long-held secrets? Is there value in making amends to people from her past? Is healing possible late in life?

Watching Mabel tackle these important life questions turns out to be pure delight. As is watching the impact her decisions have on those around her. The story is full of wonderful surprises. 

THE LAST LIST OF MABEL BEAUMONT is a story that made me smile, often, as I read it. There are wonderful characters to meet whose flaws you will recognize. I particularly recommend reading it at a moment when you might feel the need for some reassurance about the essential goodness of human beings. Say, a moment like NOW!

More about Laura Pearson.