Description

If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy is a delightful read that truly resonated with me, especially in terms of body positivity and self-acceptance. The protagonist, Cindy, is relatable in so many ways, and her journey of navigating life as a plus-size woman in the reality TV spotlight felt so real. I loved seeing her grapple with her insecurities, especially in a world that often feels set up to make people feel less than. Cindy’s growth throughout the book—learning to embrace who she truly is, and finding confidence in herself both inside and out—felt like a journey I could relate to on a personal level.

What I love most about If the Shoe Fits is that it doesn’t shy away from the complexities of being a woman in the public eye, but it also celebrates the power of self-love and authenticity. The novel doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable situations and ideals even though it might be a little awakward for the reader. The realness of the situations is one of the reasons that I adore this novel so much. Cindy’s journey in a reality TV show setting was both fun and thought-provoking, offering an interesting look at how media often manipulates perceptions of beauty and worth. The romance and the supportive relationships she builds with others in the book added depth to her character’s growth, and I couldn’t help but cheer her on as she discovered her inner strength. If the Shoe Fits is a book I can always return to when I need a reminder that embracing who I am is the most important thing. The novel was a comfort novel for my freshman year of college, although I picked it up for the first time my senior year of high school. I had gone through a tough breakup and this novel helped me to dust myself off and pick myself back up. The story of self-love and acceptance is one that I hold near and dear to my heart.