In Perfectly Arranged by Liana George, Nicki Mayfield has a gift for simplifying belongings à la Marie Kondo, organizational superstar. Hired by a wealthy, bristly socialite who owns more shoes than Imelda Marcos, Nicki considers which organizational method to use Shoe type? Shoe purpose? Or color gradients?
I thought this book would focus on the eccentricities of the rich who needed their super-abundant belongings organized. Instead, the narrative crosses the Pacific and focuses on Chinese orphans. Specifically, those with congenital heart defects who might not live without expensive corrective surgery.
The challenge is that Katherine O’Connor is the poor little rich girl who has misunderstood her wealthy father’s love and closed herself off from most other human connections.
Actually, Katherine has misunderstood but her father has set far-reaching life processes in motion BECAUSE of his love for his daughter. As Nicki grows and finds the courage to take risks, Katherine does as well.
My take on this heartwarming story is that most of us get imprisoned by lies. It is our challenge and privilege to disprove them to come into agreement with the truth. As Nicki accepts her final test in Perfectly Arranged, it is not hard to imagine where her next biggest challenges and blessings will be found. I look forward to the next book. Meanwhile, these are my two favorite quotes. Which do you like and why?
“Ms. O’Connor walks back into the room and glares at me, the lines around her eyes resembling cracked pottery. I stand as tall as possible and match her stare. My goal is to convey a strong and brave façade, but on the inside, I’m melting faster than Frosty the Snowman in Hawaii.” P. 22.
“I’m not hasty, and I don’t plan on going alone.” She pauses and looks me square in the eyes. “I’d like you to go with me.”
Like a wild animal trapped in a noose, I’m stuck. If I tell her no, I can kiss her recommendation goodbye. If I agree to go with her, I’ll have money as well as job security, but who knows what could happen while we’re there? I bite my lip. I’ve never been one to take risks, and I’m not sure I want to start now. But if I do take the leap, who knows what I might discover?” Pp. 65-67.
Meanwhile, can Nicki Mayfield please visit my home? Would you like her to visit yours?
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