bookoptimist's reviews
389 reviews

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

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3.0

A lovely love story

The characters are quirky and young but their love is grown-up which makes this quick read multidimensional. I thought cancer as the antagonistic and inhuman character would make this a daunting and melodramatic novel, but that isn't the case. It's sweet, simple, and both sad and amusing at various points. Just enough of both to keep it worth reading in a couple of sittings.
A Vintage Affair by Isabel Wolff

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5.0

Not sure what it was about this book that drew me in, but I absolutely adored Phoebe Swift as the novel's protagonist because she was neither strong to the point she lacked heart or weak to the point that she was a victim. She was comfortably in the middle. An independent woman with obvious vulnerability and a sense of duty to friendship. The other main character "vintage clothing & accessories" was such a clever touch as a means to weave the characters and plot together. It brought in history, charm, contemporary issues and human emotion. What a delightful novel. Highly recommend!
Bossypants by Tina Fey

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5.0

I listened to the audiobook CD version read by Tina Fey. What a great version of this book! She clearly has all her intended nuances read the way she meant them and even added a bonys audio clip of a SNL skit she did to enhance the power behind her story. The only drawback was not being able to see the pictures and photos she kept referencing although she would always say "Check your pdf"

It was a light and enjoyable "read" during any commute home. At 5 CDs, the audiobook goes by quickly and progresses smoothly. My favorite piece was about those mothers she refers to as Teat Nazis. The ones who produce breastmilk by the Big Gulp cup size, who are quick to judge non-breastfeeding moms. She also addresses her internet critics with clever and sassy comebacks in classic Tina Fey style. Gotta love that!
The Measure of a Lady by Deeanne Gist

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3.0

Readable for entertainment though not much substance

I give this three stars because of this romance novel's epetitive nature in the female protagonist. 'Should she?' 'Shouldn't she?' It was a never-ending cycle of the same. I liked her but she tired me by the end. Glad I finished the book to feel relief, but it could've been 5 chapters shorter.
Meet Me at the Cupcake Cafe by Jenny Colgan

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4.0

Adorable novel revolving around cupcakes!

This novel, is a light-read. It is not serious in tone, though serious topics do occur (grandparent facing dementia, emotionally absent partner, socio-economical identity crisis) the novel as a whole wrapped itself around the spirit of Issy, a thirty-something woman at a crossroads with her life. This is her journey from adult insecurity to blossoming career. I recommend it to readers interested in a cast of strong characters both male and female, human relationships, and baking. It airs on the side of vintage lit.