I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s got humor and heart. It’s a feel good book. The writing is incredible. I actually felt as if I was running the marathon with Gracie. There’s a lot of little life lesson sprinkled throughout the book. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Gracie Jenkins Runs a Marathon by Penny Mirren was an inspirational, heartwarming, and fun read. Gracie Jenkins is exactly who I want to be in about 30 years!

Gracie is a pensioner who’s drifting through retirement when her estranged sister, Jill, and niece, Emily, move into the same town. Gracie and her niece have developed a good relationship in the interim, and at the beginning of the novel, Emily invites her aunt to join the local running club. Gracie falls in love with running, and so the seeds are planted for the rest of the story.

The main characters are Gracie and her little sister Jill. The POV alternates between the two throughout the book. The different POVs were well done and helped to move the plot line forward nicely. These two were both really relatable, and I could see a lot of similarities between the two sisters and my own sister and myself. It was lovely to see the two of them work toward reconciliation throughout the book.

This is the second book I’ve read by Penny Mirren. The first one was the Unretirement, which I also greatly enjoyed. Some common themes I’ve seen with this author’s work are: older female protagonists finding purpose after retirement, the community coming together to support a good cause, a great supporting cast of characters, and the importance of family bonds.

4/5 Stars. I loved the feel-good vibe of this book! With all the turmoil going on in the world right now, it’s so nice to read a book where the characters support and encourage each other and work together for the betterment of humanity.

Thank you to NetGalley, Penny Mirren, and Avon Books UK for the opportunity to read the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

I tried to read this one, but the characters did not grab me after 30 pages. I chose to DNF this one. Nothing against it, or the writer, it just wasn't for me.

Not being interested in running or any form of exercise, I wasn’t sure how much I’d like this book. In fact I enjoyed it tremendously; it’s as much about friendship, family and community as running. It’s very much a feel good novel, and I felt quite emotional at the end. While it hasn’t inspired me to take up running, I’ll definitely read future books by Penny Mirren!

This is one amazing read. Two sisters who come back together after years a part . So much hurt . One ace husband . A great team of runners and a lovely story about running the marathon . Parents have a lot to answer for. A great read and hard to review but you will love it . One of my reads of 2025 .

Gracie Jenkins Runs a Marathon is a joyful, uplifting celebration of late-life adventure and the quiet resilience that so often goes unnoticed. Penny Mirren has created a wonderfully warm character in Gracie, whose story proves that it is never too late to chase a dream.

At 72, Gracie’s decision to train for a marathon feels both bold and believable. The spark that ignites her journey is touching, and the steps she takes—both literal and emotional—are inspiring without ever feeling forced. The writing is light but heartfelt, and there’s just the right balance of humour, tenderness and determination.

One of the loveliest aspects of the book is the community Gracie builds along the way. I enjoyed seeing how her journey ripples outwards, touching those around her and reminding them of their own hidden strength. It is not just about the miles or the medal, but the rediscovery of purpose, connection and joy.

This is a story full of heart, perfect for anyone in need of a gentle reminder that it is never too late to start again. Finishing it left me smiling and hopeful—just the way the best books do.

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Plan to purchase (for my mom and/or her retirement community). Doesn't get better than that for a recommendation! Definitely a feel good novel with renewing family ties as a central theme.

Gracie decides to start running with her niece's running group ... at the age of 72.

There are lots of dynamics going on.

I don't cry with many books ... and no tears were shed ... but I was pretty close a couple times. I really loved this book. I also really enjoyed Penny Mirren's The Unretirement published May 2024. I'll keep reading her novels. I'm quickly approaching 60 and Penny Mirren's novels have older central characters. Its probably why I like them so much.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Publishing for approving my request to read the advance read copy of Gracie Jenkins Runs a Marathon in exchange for an honest review. Publication date is Sept 11, 2025. Approx 350 pages.

I wish Penny Mirren had included a bit of background in regards to how/why she wrote this book. I guess I'll have to look for that in the final version!

This is my 1st book I have read by the author and what an incredible book this is telling the story of Gracie, I read this in a, day and it's a such a lovely book to read with a cup of tea

Wishing the author all the best with this book

Thank you to netgalley & publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for this review

This was a cozy, sweet, inspiring read. Gracie is such a loveable character and it was wonderful getting to follow her through her goals and reclaiming her life and ambitions, no matter her age. I also appreciated the exploration of family dynamics, whether it was between Gracie and her husband, her niece, or the two sisters. The side characters were wonderful and rounded out the cozy vibes.

A lovely uplifting read showing how age isn’t a barrier and we can all do things if we put our mind to it! I loved all the characters and especially the relationship between the sisters. Highly recommended.

I loved Penny’s other book The Unretirement so was very keen to read Gracie Jenkins runs a marathon and I certainly was not disappointed!
Gracie is such a likeable character, settled into retirement with her husband who has mobility issues, so life for them has changed a lot and has become quite mundane,Gracie misses the active lifestyle they used to have particularly their hiking holidays! Whilst her husband is happy pottering around in his shed fixing things and tinkering!
Gracie spurred on by her niece joins a running club and loves the socialisation of it and all it entails! When her niece gets injured and is unable to run the London marathon for a charity close to their Hearts,Gracie offers to take her place!
At 72 years of age this is a huge ask of Gracie and her aging body, however she embraces the challenge with gusto as we follow her on her training journey we experience the highs and lows with her, the process brings realisation to Gracie and in doing so allows her to view retirement in a different light, mend bridges with her sister, enjoy life again with her long suffering husband , rekindle her relationship with her son and grandchildren and enjoy life to the full!
A fantastic read championing the more nature generation
Thank you NetGalley for thus early read

This talented author has written a fun quick read. The likable characters keep the story moving. I enjoy books with seniors…mature and lively ones at that. Curl up in a comfy chair with a cup of herbal tea…enjoy an afternoon reading this story. Thanks Netgalley

I absolutely loved this book! I read it all in one sitting these past few hours. It is so lovely and inspiring to see women past their “prime” by society’s standards still be able to have a purposeful and fulfilling life. It was so interesting and fun to see Gracie Jenkins run her marathon and experience her journey throughout the book! I cannot wait to be able to spread the word how good this book is and for everyone needing that extra motivation in life to check it out!