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Reviewed by Lesley Jones for Readers' Favorite
In And So It Goes by Raynette Mitchell, Karen Cosgrove was only 18 years old when love came into her life in the form of handsome and charming John Pascoe. Their relationship was not only passionate, but Karen believed it would last forever. However, within four years, Karen's life turned upside down when John suddenly disappeared. Now, forty years on, she reflects on her life and her 36-year marriage to the stable yet temperamental and cantankerous Martin. Karen feels her life lacks excitement since her son has left home and the couple has retired from bustling Sydney to picturesque Coffs Harbour. To ease the boredom, Karen joins a website to find friendship. Everything seems harmless until Paul responds and gives Karen the attention and love she longs for. Karen continues her double life even when she meets Paul's wife in an art workshop. Then a dramatic turn of events turns Karen's life upside down one night and she is forced to face her betrayal. Will she learn from past mistakes?
And So It Goes by Raynette Mitchell is a novel that draws you into the world of the characters immediately. What most impressed me about the novel was the detailed backstories to the characters, sometimes a whole chapter dedicated to one person. I enjoyed reading about the characters' life journeys and the events that shaped the person they had become. Lou was a lovely character and a great friend to Karen. The relationship between Karen and Paul was electric and passionate but sadly built on deceiving others. The plot had many great twists and turns and the climactic ending brought all the loose ends together seamlessly. I thought the storyline held a great life lesson throughout, to follow your heart, and never settle for the safe option. Karen had needs that were clearly not fulfilled, she longed for excitement, a life purpose, and to be appreciated. I thought Karen's reflection of the situation at the end of the story was a great addition and highlighted how people can become innocently entangled in infidelity. This is the perfect novel to escape with and any reader will relate to the characters and storyline.
