Once I started reading The Birthday List I could not put the book down. I was sneaking away to read a few more pages, a few more words, or hopefully a few more chapters. The characters pulled me in. Poppy was the perfect widow, if there is such a thing. She loves her husband and wants to finish his wish list and hopefully be able to move on with her life. Then I met Cole. Sigh, talk about the perfect man. Not only is he instantly attracted to Poppy but he is the most accepting, understanding, welcoming man I have ever read about. He understands that Poppy has to do the wish list in order to be open to a relationship with him. I LOVE that he willingly agrees to help her with the list. While the restaurant Poppy opens is not the focus, it is a major place in the book. I could easily relate to the crowds, the quirky customers, the customers who become friends, and the hard work put into running it. My family has owned a family diner for many years and I have firsthand experience at the hours, the work, and the fun of working with family. The lesson I learned while reading The Birthday List is that it is okay to not forget the love ones who passed away but it is just as okay to keep living. Life is important and if those who passed love you they would want you to keep living. I am lucky enough to not have a lot of experience with the death of loved ones but I am hoping this will stay with me as I continue living my life. While this could have been a sad, poor me story I found it more uplifting, loving, and a living story. I recommend picking up your copy. The Birthday List will be a book that you will not be able to put down and the story will stay with you long after you are done reading.