Harriet Hates Lemonade is an entertaining story that expresses the importance of friendship. In the same vein as A Man Called Ove the curmudgeon Harriet learns that life is better when you loosen up and share it with friends.
Harriet has been widowed for over a year now. It had always been just her and Les. They only ever needed each other and Harriet has spent the last 12 months upholding Les' ideals of keeping the neighbourhood in check and reporting anyone who steps out of line.
Through Harriet's memories we see how her life was with Les and slowly Harriet comes to realise all was not as rosy as she thought.
I really liked Harriet's character. She was all bluster and lacking in tact, saying exactly what she thought. Many readers may not like Harriet's abrupt manner but I knew she didn't mean to offend, she was just stating facts and I found it all very amusing.
Harriet Hates Lemonade is an easy read even with the heavy themes of domestic violence, gaslighting, manipulation and control. These themes are offset by lighter themes of friendship, community and personal growth.
The story starts off with humour and I was taken unaware as it slowly escalates to scenes of domestic violence and then turns to a heartwarming story of new friendships.
Harriet Hates Lemonade is at times funny, foreboding and always heartfelt. I picked up the book every spare minute I had.
My rating 4 / 5
Content: domestic violence
murder
Publisher: Black Rose Writing
Publication date: 12th February 2026
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Pages: 330
Source: eCopy courtesy of the publisher
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