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Brave-ish Reviews

Brave-ish is a unique journey of discovery and independence

Rated 5 out of 5
A memoir that is an inspirational travelogue guaranteed to get the most timid individual netsurfing exotic locales, Brave-ish is a unique journey of discovery and independence. There are moments that will have the reader ready to come to the author's rescue, and there are times when they will cheer her next little victory. This memoir is a guidebook for people who feel they"can't do" or "don't have the guts" and need to see that you don't have to get it all right at once....baby steps! This book is memoir, but it is so very much more. It works very well as an atypical travelogue and an inspirational piece for anyone needing to find the courage to say that they deserve better. 
2024 - Benjamin Franklin Awards Memoir

Inspiring, relatable, and couldn’t put it down!

Rated 5 out of 5
The “Brave” of the book is the author’s decision to share the details about her life- the good and the bad. Her honesty had me reflecting on my own personal experiences. Parts of it read like a travel journal which made me crave adventure and travel. It was fun to live vicariously through her words! I loved rooting for her as she carved her own path in the face of adversity. By the end, I was sad that the book concluded. I want to know what adventures awaited after she turned 50!
Bridget A.

a wonderful read

Rated 5 out of 5
Part memoir, part chick-lit, and part coming-of-age story (even though the age is 50), Lisa Niver’s Brave-ish is an always fun and often serious look at the way a woman can both fall into a terrible relationship and then emerge from it stronger than ever. Set across an international backdrop, Niver—a nearly obsessionist world traveler and writer—provides a travel-based memoir that still manages to be about her much, much more than it is about travel. The book, set basically into two sections (Fred and post-Fred, if you will), is well written and well organized. The voice always hits just the right notes.
IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards

(Bitter)sweet, empowering, vulnerable, and represents our near-universal humanity

Rated 5 out of 5
Have you ever had a friend or colleague you thought you knew -- consistently cheerful, compassionate, generous and buoyant -- only to read their autobiography or attend their funeral to find out your buddy had actually lived an intricate life full of adventure AND dark and devastating surprises? This is Brave-ish for me. After meeting and instantly bonding with Lisa on a press trip to Puerto Rico and remaining loving friends ever since, I had no idea the peaks of her life had been so high and the valleys so low. In Brave-ish she shares these icicle-pick sharp experiences with insight, self-deprecating wit, innocence, a growth mindset, and truly heartbreaking honesty. Ever the instructor, Lisa writes in clear, declarative sentences and lots of dialogue to make Brave-ish a quick-moving and comforting read, all while subliminally inviting readers to forgive and empathize with themselves along with the narrator. Lisa describes again and again how her friends and family have circled immediately in times of need. I predict you’ll feel like a friend of Lisa’s by the second page … or at least the third – cheering her on while rooting for yourself and your own tribe of sisters as you travel the inner and outer world of Lisa Niver, tour guide for turning tragedy into opportunity to literally live your very best life.
Tara N

LOVE this book!

Rated 5 out of 5
With her signature zest, wonder, and grace, Niver takes us on her journey of self-discovery, inspiration, and perseverance. Brave-ish is so much more than a memoir...it is a guide to growing with both humility and curiosity, and shows us the power of inner strength, friendship, community, and drive. This is a beautiful memoir about finding self, about slowly moving past trauma, and about the immense influence that travel has to heal and inspire. This book? Pure magic. Highly, highly recommended!
Jessica Voigts

a heartfelt, must-read memoir told with wit, honesty, and heart

Rated 5 out of 5
Blending her personal journey with her extraordinary travel experiences, Lisa Niver delivers an exceptional, inspiring memoir. Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty chronicles her journey, including her marriage and divorce, and encourages others to bravely embrace life and venture into the unknown. Niver had never been a stranger to instability and uncertainty. Years earlier, she had given up studying medicine and a promising medical career to become an assistant preschool teacher. A couple of years later, she would walk away from seven years of travel and working on cruise ships, and return to teaching. Such courageous risks mark her remarkable life which includes her adventures across the globe. Though she encounters many hardships, her journey is also full of fun, joy, and hope. This awe-inspiring work offers readers the chance to go on exciting travels without having to leave the comfort of their homes. In her book, Niver offers more than a travelogue. She provides a raw, honest glimpse into her experiences, including the immense challenges she faced and the beautiful, life-changing encounters she had. She talks about the physical and emotional trauma she suffered from her marriage and encourages readers to move forward and not allow similar struggles to hinder them from pursuing their dreams. I found her zest for life inspiring and was encouraged by her ability to face both small and great risks. Her journey is captivating and along the way she meets various interesting characters. Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty is a heartfelt, must-read memoir told with wit, honesty, and heart.
Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite

Brave and inspirational

Rated 5 out of 5
Loved the story and learned so much about travel and resiliency. Loved that the author narrated the book - love her voice.
JIll K.

Inspiring, Travellers must have!

Rated 5 out of 5
I absolutely LOVED Brave-ish! It’s raw, honest, and I laughed so hard about the Club Med/cruise segments. I just love how real it was! I worked with Lisa onboard cruise ships. -- I also just loved reading all the detail and perspective of the places you have travelled too, I’m sure you’re already in your next adventure! I'm so incredibly proud of Lisa Niver for sharing her story and all that she has achieved after what she has been through. You are inspiring woman all over the world.. What a powerhouse you are!! Keep on travelling and sharing your stories. Your Brave-ish book is now proudly on top of my travel books awaiting your personal signature.. Go Lisa!
Kimala

A very honest and BRAVE sharing of the author’s intersection of travel, relationships and life!

Rated 5 out of 5
Lisa has written an amazing book that chronicles her many travel journeys and adventures throughout her life, but made it very personal by intertwining stories of the relationships (good and bad), the realities of life on the road, with all the bumps that make her stories really resonate. Having met Lisa on a trail on the Annapurna Circuit….. and yes with Fred, I would have never imagined the story behind the story. Her sharing of this experience in her life was gut wrenching to read, but a necessary part of the story……. It sets the tone for the rest of her journey in becoming Brave-ish. Well done, and I look forward to whatever she has planned for her next chapters!
Jon Winstanley

Brave-ish is inspiring, motivating and I loved it!

Rated 5 out of 5
If you love to read and you are looking for a great new book, consider Brave-ish which speaks to anyone who can relate to needing to break out of their “mold” and dare themselves to be a bit (or a lot) braver. Her book is so fun to read as Lisa goes through ups and downs in her personal, physical and extraordinary life and certainly has come into life after 50 on a super charged high note! I am not gonna lie, she definitely gets into some “open book” personal stuff that can feel a little uncomfortable, but haven’t we all been through some uncomfortable stuff? It is refreshing to have somebody just completely open up. I learned from her autobiographical story so many things without her even trying to teach me anything - about love, trying to commit, but ultimately having to let go, about travel, about judaism, and mostly about being brave and great ideas about 50 things to try! I accept that challenge!! Lisa I loved it! I think you’re gonna love it too!
Nicole Kallis

Brave-ish is a story of survival that speaks to any woman

Rated 5 out of 5
Niver has the reader ride a wave of up and down emotions included with action and adventure that would rival any of Hollywood's movies. Surviving a disastrous, abusive marriage that she did not see until it almost caused her demise. Being brave enough to get out from under the abuse, she starts and new life and thrives. But that wasn't enough for the heroine of the story. She kept challenging herself to grow and overcome, at times, insurmountable obstacles. She accomplished things she never dreamed of and fulfilled items on her wish list. Yet, if there wasn't enough to her journey of growth and survival, she takes on the challenge of accomplishing 50 Things Before her 50th Birthday in a very short time frame. And the reader is off again on another round of action and adventure as Niver learns new things, explores new places across six continents. Niver wants to be fearless after fifty and tries things that would make a seasoned professional squeamish and any woman over fifty clinging to the safety of her bed covers. Her courageous behavior clearly indicates that is fearless. Niver’s story shows us her portrait of life and her philosophy of life. Brave-ish is a story of survival that speaks to any woman and lets them see what can happen if you let go of your fears, expectations, and perceptions.
Nonfiction Book Awards

Great read about how to keep going - highly recommend

Rated 5 out of 5
A remarkable memoir about navigating life when there is no map. A fast and enjoyable read, and a real nudge towards the benefits of trying new things which cumulatively adds up to bravery. For those of us facing landmark birthdays it is a gentle inspiration to keep living. Full disclosure- I knew the author in college but have not seen her but once in the 30+ years since. But I can say this is her true voice, and the book offers a level of authenticity and vulnerability that one rarely finds in this genre.
Sarah Fitts

Having the courage to start your life over is quite inspirational

Rated 5 out of 5
Everyone thought that Lisa Niver who was married to her husband Fred was on an adventure of her lifetime. She was traveling all around Asia and had left her job to do it. Was it really a great adventure or did she have a dark secret she was carrying with her. One day she found herself on a sidewalk in a different country.. Was she pushed by perhaps someone she knew who was very close and dear to her? She realizes that things have to change. Did she feel like the universe had just fallen? Having the courage to start your life over in the middle years of your life, is quite courageous. Could this be what she might have to do? Will she call her parents to let them know what her plans are? Has she given up so much of her life for him? Would she have to move back to her parents house? Can she build her torn life back up again? Would she now take up a new profession? Would she become a travel writer? 20 years ago she had put a pause on medical school. The author is inspirational and brave. You will see how she describes her journey and how she overcame obstacles. You will see where she is now. Come take the journey with Lisa and read this book now.
Sylvia J.

Fun motivating read

Rated 5 out of 5
Wonderful story! Very inspiring…showed it’s never to late to start over and try new things
Raymond B.

Brave-ish is an invitation to confront the unfamiliar, to discover resilience in openness.

Rated 5 out of 5
Brave-ish by Lisa Niver is an engaging memoir that masterfully interweaves the challenging dynamics of a marriage at a crossroads with vivid accounts of solo travel and self-exploration. The narrative transports readers from the lively streets of Thailand to Fiji’s serene landscapes and into the opulent heart of Monaco, all while offering an introspective look at Niver’s personal journey.
Literary Titan

Must-Read Brave-ish Book about 50 Fearless Triumphs

Rated 5 out of 5
Award-winning travel expert Lisa Niver’s new book, "Brave-ish", is an inspiring memoir about how she fearlessly tried 50 new things while traveling around the world - all before turning 50. The author explains that her major ah-ha moment was a bad break-up in Thailand that made her re-evaluate her life. Through the power of storytelling, Lisa’s page-turner can help you to find the courage to go after your dreams, take more risks, and don’t let anyone stop you. Highly recommended.
Liz H. Kelly

positive, upbeat, and an easy approachable read

Rated 5 out of 5
Lisa Niver's memoir is positive, upbeat, and an easy approachable read. Many readers will sympathize with her relationship. Her conversational style feels like talking to an old friend who has made some positive and inspiring changes in her life. Readers quickly grow to realize Fred is not the guy for her, but we have to wait for Lisa to come to this conclusion as well. I'm glad it happened sooner rather than later! About the time our author stated that she and Fred would write a book together is when I thought "no good will come out of this and Fred is not doing any of the work." It felt good to be right about that. Despite having a terrible time with Fred, the author is so likeable. Most readers will want to cheer her on to her new life. Even more readers will cheer her on for taking charge of her own life, going after her passion (travel writing) and for challenging herself to be better.
2024 Benjamin Franklin Awards INSPIRATION

Great, fun, inspirational read

Rated 5 out of 5
What a beautiful book. Lisa Niver had me hooked from the very beginning of Brave-ish. From her colorful explanations of the amazing places she's visited throughout the world, to her humor that had me laughing out loud at times, to her ability through her words to make me feel not so alone. The strength Lisa has shown and all that she's accomplished as given me hope that I may not be "too old" do go and explore more myself... despite my limitations and self doubt. Thanks for the uplifting, fun read 🙂
Sage

Brave = navigating life on your own terms

Rated 5 out of 5
I really enjoyed Brave'ish -- it was inspirational and exciting. Lisa Niver is a travel writer -- so the book is set among all sorts of cool travel locations that allow you to see inspiring places around the world and to see all the cool ways that travel brings excitement and wonder to life -- new cultures, new people, new foods, plus bold activities like scuba diving, bobsledding, and swimming with sharks. But Lisa was also in a challenging relationship and finding her path to brave also meant letting go of the parts of her past that someone else had defined and finding a new path to herself that she defined -- with travel as the backdrop to self discovery and reinvention. That made the book relatable in a different and very powerful way. I like that Brave'ish is about defining what is brave for you -- now -- and what can be brave for you in the future that you build for yourself.
B. Roberts

Engaging and Entertaining Travelogue, and Inspirational for Divorced Women Everywhere

Rated 5 out of 5
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this engaging and entertaining account of the adventures that author Lisa Niver experienced during her international travels, particularly backpacking throughout Asia, and the fears she overcame in order to experience the adventures of becoming a diver—even swimming with the sharks! Niver has inspired me to set some challenges for myself! I'd also like to say that Niver's book is also a journey of the soul, as she details the beginning, development, and dissolution of her marriage with Fred. The fact that she could emerge from that relationship without vitriol or vindictiveness directed at her former husband is a testimonial to her loving spirit. Niver simply accepts lessons learned and moves on with a life of positivity and productivity. She is a role model for divorced women everywhere. Brave-ish is definitely a book worth reading, no matter how old you are, or what your marital status is.
TLMarzell

Inspirational read

Rated 5 out of 5
I assumed I'd like the book, because I've followed Lisa on social media for a long time, and I always find her writing interesting. But I was not expecting to find the book as inspiring as I did. It is not a "how to" book, but rather a good source of inspiration, for anyone, but especially for women over 50. She figured out how to pick herself up, dust herself off and move forward despite everything telling her to stay put and not challenge the extents of her comfort zone. She repeatedly challenged her "Lizard Brain" and it's need to be safe and warm. As a result, she accomplished more new things in a few years than most people would in an adult lifetime. The result makes you question your own perceived limitations.
Suzanne

The adventures are inspiring

Rated 5 out of 5
The stories vary from unexpected to exciting, and from sad to fun and cheery. The adventures the author goes on are inspiring (page 44 Puerto Rico) when the author jumps back into life after a devastating event. The ropes course (page 171- 172) was awe-inspiring, too! Reading the successes of the author's writing projects and the progress of the 50 New Things Before 50 was great.
IBPA Awards Travel

Highly recommend this book to anyone, not just travel journalists

Rated 5 out of 5
Like the author, I'm a travel journalist so I was interested to read her book. I also have a background in psychology so I appreciated Niver's emotional journey that she explored during her journey. She was able to overcome a lot of her challenges by going outside of her comfort zone in various settings including ones related to travel or career choices. As a reader when I read about her triumphs I not only cheered for her but also felt inspired. I highly recommend this book to anyone, not just travel journalists.
Cheryl

Inspirational memoir of a woman's journey

Rated 5 out of 5
This was an inspirational memoir of a woman's journey from a very low place in her life to finding her own inner strength and going on the most amazing adventures. It is easy to lose our way and as she points out is never too late to re-center ourselves. I really admire her strength, determination and grit. It also shows that even the strongest have self crippling doubt that can prevent us from living our best lives. I am very appreciative that Lisa shared her story and was able to accomplish so much after her horrible marriage and divorce.
Liz Taylor

Grabbed my attention from the moment I downloaded her book

Rated 5 out of 5
Lisa Niver’s is any one of us as we go through life. She shares her journey that is filled with demons, health issues, insecurities, mistakes and bad judgements that help her discover within herself the determination and resilience to overcome these problems. As she sets herself on a road to recovery and self redemption from her failures and abusive marriage, Niver holds tight to her love and dream of becoming a travel writer, explorer, videographer. Her story and writing voice grabbed my attention from the moment I downloaded her book. I couldn’t put it down. I felt her frustration and her insecurity, just as I appreciated her hard work and honesty. She openly shares her faults but also how she turned them into catalysts propelling herself forward to success.
Valerie

Inspirational story

Rated 5 out of 5
This is such an inspirational story, from getting out of a toxic relationship to becoming one of the most influential travel journalists today. Lisa Niver’s story is universal and one that will stay with me for a long time.
Susan

Inspires you to take small steps to chart your own path and find change

Rated 5 out of 5
Lisa Niver truly inspires you to take small steps to chart your own path and find change. She is resilient and has a great sense of humor. She sorts through her dramatic experience with her ex and finds her footing. When you think you are lost and cant find your way, Lisa shows you that it is okay to start slowly and just do one small thing. I would love to see more woman stand under themselves and challenge themselves the way Lisa did. Bravo.
Beth Georgia

An extraordinary woman

Rated 5 out of 5
This book reminds me that living one’s truth is not easy or convenient. With laugh-out-loud hilarity to white knuckle moments, I loved being taken along her adventures around the globe towards happiness and self discovery. Looking forward to the next novel.
Tanya J. Saunders

A Brave and Inspiring Memoir

Rated 5 out of 5
We live with fear but we can choose not to let fear overcome us. We can choose to be brave. We can rise to challenges thrust upon us. We can seek joy. We can try new things. This is exactly what Lisa Niver does and she shares her journey of facing fear and not letting it paralyze her. Lisa is brave and inspiring! Get a copy of her book so that you can travel the world with her and be moved by her acts of bravery, large and small.
A Reader

BRAVA to BRAVE-ish!

Rated 5 out of 5
I am so proud of my friend Lisa — not only for writing the book but also for rising like a phoenix from the ashes. She triumphed, and that’s what the story is about. Creating the life she wants and deserves is a lesson for us all.
Laurence V. Mathews

Blending her personal journey with her extraordinary travel experiences

Rated 5 out of 5
Blending her personal journey with her extraordinary travel experiences, Lisa Niver delivers an exceptional, inspiring memoir. Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty chronicles her journey, including her marriage and divorce, and encourages others to bravely embrace life and venture into the unknown. Niver had never been a stranger to instability and uncertainty. Years earlier, she had given up studying medicine and a promising medical career to become an assistant preschool teacher. A couple of years later, she would walk away from seven years of travel and working on cruise ships, and return to teaching. Such courageous risks mark her remarkable life which includes her adventures across the globe. Though she encounters many hardships, her journey is also full of fun, joy, and hope.

This awe-inspiring work offers readers the chance to go on exciting travels without having to leave the comfort of their homes. In her book, Niver offers more than a travelogue. She provides a raw, honest glimpse into her experiences, including the immense challenges she faced and the beautiful, life-changing encounters she had. She talks about the physical and emotional trauma she suffered from her marriage and encourages readers to move forward and not allow similar struggles to hinder them from pursuing their dreams. I found her zest for life inspiring and was encouraged by her ability to face both small and great risks. Her journey is captivating and along the way she meets various interesting characters. Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty is a heartfelt, must-read memoir told with wit, honesty, and heart.
Edith Wairimu

Brave + Inspiring. A great read for solo travelers, aspiring travel writers, & timid travelers.

Rated 5 out of 5
Lisa Niver makes the extraordinary relatable. Her voice is that of a friend you haven’t spoken with for ages. She’s made the bad choices and ignored the signs that so many of us do – you know, the ones that, in hindsight, were so strong that they might as well have been flashing neon signs – and come out stronger with an inspiring story to tell. Niver’s book inspires more than emotional strength and perseverance; as a travelogue should, it filled me with more wanderlust and a new list of places to put on my travel bucket list. I’ve been through bad relationships and ignored the flashing neon signs myself. I also started dipping my toes into the travel writing waters in my 40s, so I found Niver’s story extra encouraging.
Melissa Peterson

Brava: How to be brave

Rated 5 out of 5
There is nothing ish about it!!! Lisa Niver's Brave-ish is simply brave. Niver’s writing draws you in as a co-traveler. Experience the challenges and joys life might bring us. Gain insight into the dynamics of happiness, anger, sadness, fear, and excitement of one life lived as a survivor and thriver. Yes. Lisa Niver has written a compelling memoir of her lived experiences and generously shares her life lessons with anyone brave- ish enough to read, reflect and let it in. I am glad I did.
Bodhi

Brave-ish was relatable and inspirational

Rated 5 out of 5
Like Lisa I was married to a "bad" guy. Reading her accounts where she describes why she stayed in the marriage, when to an outsider the decision to leave would seem clear, or her hope that Fred would change and ultimately her brave choice to leave and put her safety physically and emotionally first, were so relatable, i felt at times like I wanted to compare notes. For those of us who have endured years of abuse by our husbands, it always feels fantastic knowing we aren't alone. Thank you Lisa for making me feel a lot less alone today. What Lisa has accomplished since she was kicked (literally and metaphorically) is really unbelievable. She did it all with a spirit of strength and resilience. Way to go Lisa! I am a founder and member of a singles support group in Marin County. I have recommended Lisa's book to our group as a great easy and fast paced read that will inspire all of us to get back on our feet and live la vida loca (the crazy life of doing wild and crazy things that make you cool).
Hila

Inspirational and Fun Read

Rated 5 out of 5
I read Lisa's book in 2 days! She is my hero! She has done so much in such a short amount of time and has inspired me to want to do more for myself. Being defined by other people is not the path to happiness but being true to yourself and really accepting yourself is the start. Lisa shows us that getting out of your comfort zone, even if it is as small as opening the space between your clasped hands, is worth the risk. And, it's wonderful to see it's never too late to start being a little "Brave-ish"."
Scott

What an adventure!

Rated 5 out of 5
This book is truly inspiring. It follows the author, Lisa, on both her literal travels and adventures as well as her inner journey as she finds herself, her “brave”, and her belief in herself. Definitely worth a read.
Mimi

Inspirational!

Rated 5 out of 5
Lisa Niver did a fabulous job describing her journey to where she is now. Brave-ish tells her story of overcoming many obstacles and challenges while learning about herself along the way. I found this book to be incredibly inspirational, and a must read for everyone.
JemmStarr

Inspiring

Rated 5 out of 5
This is a beautiful journey. So heartwarming and inspiring. Lisa Niver is vulnerable and insightful through her hardship and ultimately finding "herself". I loved every chapter!
Cindy T Chung

Journey with Lisa!

Rated 5 out of 5
I so enjoyed Niver’s book! So readable and I really wished I could have hugged her several times. I loved how she wove her seeing and swimming issues together throughout her life. She was like like a Phoenix in each painful iteration.

Highly recommended for anyone facing tough decisions, especially midlife, who wants to come out on the other side as wiser and more adventurous!
A. B. White

Woman, hear me roar!

Rated 5 out of 5
I met Lisa many years ago as we worked together on a children's television show. I read her book late into the night as I couldn't wait to see what was the next adventure she would take on. She is brave, plucky and smart and funny and has a beautiful soul. I am blessed to have met her. If you're stuck or afraid, don't be. Adventures await around every corner waiting on you to grab hold!
pixiedust

Beyond Brave

Rated 5 out of 5
Lisa’s is a story of recognizing and accepting that a major life change is needed, then let’s go, heals and excels in so many endeavors. Epically inspiring- couldn’t put it down.
Debra Sarokin

Amazing story!

Rated 5 out of 5
This book was impossible to put down! I related to her story on so many levels. Lisa Niver is an incredible storyteller. I cannot wait to share this with my book club!
Amazon Customer

Fearless

Rated 5 out of 5
Could rename this Fearless- Lisa Niver engages us on quite an adventure all while uplifting our spirits with her resilience and humor.
JN

Great book!

Rated 5 out of 5
I couldn't put the book down!
Sarah Cohen Gotlieb

A Must Read!!

Rated 5 out of 5
This book will take you on Lisa's incredible journey! There are laughs and tears but most of all a book written from the heart. I wasn't able to put it down . Fascinating twists and turns but an honest and real look at relationships, challenges and adventures. This is the second book I've read from Lisa Niver! I'm already looking forward to the 3rd!
JW

Powerful ending!!

Rated 5 out of 5
I just finished the book, absolutely wonderful!! The ending is really powerful and moving, an authentic book that reads very well.
Marco

Loved this book!

Rated 5 out of 5
Niver’s book has inspired me to be more Brave-ish in my everyday life. I consider myself a well-traveled person but after reading about her travel adventures I have added more items to my bucket list. I think this would be a great read for book clubs.
Jennifer Zepernick

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