When I read the blurb “Life is for living…but it helps to have an angel looking over your shoulder” I thought this was going to be a book version of one of those “Why I love you, husband” cards with a sunset in the background and a sappy explanation of how “you complete me”. Thankfully Cecelia Ahern’s novel, P.S. I love you, is a lot less cheesy.

Funny saves the day
The story begins with a recently widowed young woman, Holly, discovering that during her husband’s terminal illness he wrote ten letters for her, one for every month, to help her move on with her life without him. It is the humour that saves what would otherwise be a thoroughly depressing novel. Holly’s two best friends, Sharon and Denise, are featured alongside Holly, and Cecelia Ahern juxtaposes nights out with touching moments of grief to create a realistic and touching story. Although Holly’s character is something of an everywoman figure, the full picture of Holly’s life allows the reader to truly empathise with her. The initial realistic portrayal of her work situation and family draws you into an atmosphere that makes you anticipate as much as Holly does the next letter she will receive from Gerry.

With chocolate and tears
There’s no point in lying about it: this story will, in all likelihood, make you cry. But it will also make you laugh out loud. P.S. I love you’s real triumph is its accurate and heartfelt depiction of friendship, and it will make you appreciate your bloke, friends and family. That’s why I am preparing for a girl’s night in, with a lot of chocolate and tissues for the DVD release of the film starring Hilary Swank and Gerard Butler – the quality of the cast is surely testament to this feel-good chickflick. As corny as the blurb is, I’ve got to agree that PS, I love you will encourage you that life is for living.