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Monday to Friday Man
What do you do if you're 34, single and recovering from being jilted two weeks before your wedding day? This is the dilemma Gilly Brown finds herself in. While friends are marrying, having children and moving into the depths of the countryside, Gilly finds herself alone in London and holding on to her fractured family with their tragic past. It's time to meet new people. So, she decides to get a Monday to Friday lodger, and after a succession of alarming interviews finally finds the perfect one in the shape of handsome reality television producer Jack Baker. Gilly falls for Jack's charm and is transported into an exciting social whirlwind of parties, dining out and glamour. When Jack is introduced to Gilly's family and friends, it's only the attractive and eccentric Guy, the newest recruit to her dog-walking group, who isn't quite so convinced about Jack's intentions. As Guy watches them grow closer, his suspicions of Jack and his feelings for Gilly deepen. Is Jack so perfect after all...and what exactly does he get up to at the weekends?
374 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
169 people are currently reading
1519 people want to read
About the author
Alice Peterson
23 books226 followersAt the age of eighteen Alice had been awarded a tennis scholarship to America when she experienced pain in her right hand. It was rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and she hasn’t picked up a tennis racket since, a sadness that shall always be with her. The theme of disability features in her fiction, but there is nothing gloomy about Alice or her work. Rather this gives her fiction the added dimension of true poignancy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 338 reviews
November 24, 2011
This was a book that I purchased on a whim. When I’m let loose in a bookstore, I suffer from the ‘magpie-attracted-to-shiny-baubles’ syndrome. Many a time have I picked up a predictable piece of Chick-Lit on the sheer....urggg (I can’t believe I’m saying this)...cuteness quotient of the Cover-Art. Usually I pay for my sins when the book turns out to be a shallow no-brainer.
Monday to Friday Man had an adorable (seriously, shoot me right now!) cover. The summary did a slap-bang of summing up the tale of Gilly Brown, yet another *on the wrong side of 30---jilted by her fiancé---considers her dog to be the only trustworthy male--- finds herself passionately embroiled with a shady yet charming man---doesn’t realize she has the right man right under her nose* heroine. There you go...yet another serving of the tried and tested chick-lit formula.
So what makes this book just a tad special?
The narration.
Alice Peterson tells the tale in a brisk, low-on-cloying-sentimentalism manner. Now that’s hard to achieve, especially when the author reverts to flashbacks of Gilly’s fractured childhood. The constant parental squabbles, the pain and poignant joys of sharing a few cherished years with a disabled but enchanting baby sister and the aftermath of a broken home are all shared with a sensitivity that leaves you with a tiny knot in your throat.
Cut to the present day Gilly Brown. The loves and losses of the newest version of Bridget Jones are peppered with stoic spirit, reckless abandon and the support of reliable friends.
The book isn’t mind-blowing, life-changing or a host of other *g-asp aloud* exclamations. What it does is be a fairly pleasant drama that provides good company for those cozy stay-in winter evenings.
Monday to Friday Man had an adorable (seriously, shoot me right now!) cover. The summary did a slap-bang of summing up the tale of Gilly Brown, yet another *on the wrong side of 30---jilted by her fiancé---considers her dog to be the only trustworthy male--- finds herself passionately embroiled with a shady yet charming man---doesn’t realize she has the right man right under her nose* heroine. There you go...yet another serving of the tried and tested chick-lit formula.
So what makes this book just a tad special?
The narration.
Alice Peterson tells the tale in a brisk, low-on-cloying-sentimentalism manner. Now that’s hard to achieve, especially when the author reverts to flashbacks of Gilly’s fractured childhood. The constant parental squabbles, the pain and poignant joys of sharing a few cherished years with a disabled but enchanting baby sister and the aftermath of a broken home are all shared with a sensitivity that leaves you with a tiny knot in your throat.
Cut to the present day Gilly Brown. The loves and losses of the newest version of Bridget Jones are peppered with stoic spirit, reckless abandon and the support of reliable friends.
The book isn’t mind-blowing, life-changing or a host of other *g-asp aloud* exclamations. What it does is be a fairly pleasant drama that provides good company for those cozy stay-in winter evenings.
January 22, 2019
I listened to this on audio book.
This has been such a fun filled story, a very easy light and enjoyable story.
I loved majority of the characters and the roles the two dogs Rustic and Trouble played were highly entertaining throughout the story.
There were a fair few humerous scenes that made me want to giggle out loud.
It has made me want to check out the author's other books.
This has been such a fun filled story, a very easy light and enjoyable story.
I loved majority of the characters and the roles the two dogs Rustic and Trouble played were highly entertaining throughout the story.
There were a fair few humerous scenes that made me want to giggle out loud.
It has made me want to check out the author's other books.
January 14, 2023
4,5 zbog predvidljivosti radnje.
March 3, 2015
„ Grad treba napustiti tek kada si iscrpio sve njegove mogućnosti.“ Ili kada je grad iscrpio sve tvoje mogućnosti. U svakom slučaju, pravi trenutak, netom prije no što se razočaranje pretvori u očajanje, je ključan kako na nekoć dragu i poznatu panoramu ne bismo gledali pogledom koji ubija. Zašto otići? Zbog novog početka, zbog utapanja u novoj sredini ili izranjanja iz stare, da zaboravimo ili se ponovno prisjetimo…Razlozi za odlazak su, zapravo, jednaki razlozima za ostanak. A što ćemo odlučiti ovisi isključivo o načinu na koji promatramo stvari.
Savjet o pravom trenutku za napuštanje grada negdje je putem „ulovila“ i Gilly Brown, Londončanka za koju je i višemilijunska britanska prijestolnica postala premalena kako bi pobjegla od slomljenog srca. Ili, bolje rečeno, od uspomena na vrijeme kada je njeno srce, još uvijek cijelo, kucalo u pravilnom duetu s drugim srcem, onim njena zaručnika koji se, netom prije vjenčanja, predomislio. Svatko tko ih nosi sa sobom zna kako uspomene mogu postati (pre)težak teret i kako lako nekoć ispunjen i sretan dom može postati prazna kuća. I vrlo je lako poželjeti stari, gradski život zamijeniti za manje bolan nastavak u novoj sredini. O takvom nastavku, iako ne sasvim sigurna u ispravnost svoje odluke, razmišlja i Gilly. Mlada je, zaposlena i prepuna ideja, grad joj ima još mnogo toga za ponuditi, a velikoj će kući udahnuti novi život otvori li vrata podstanaru koji se javio na njen oglas na stranici Od ponedjeljka do petka. Na taj bi način Gilly zadržala privatnost i slobodu vikendima i popunila kućni budžet iznajmljivanjem slobodnih soba preko tjedna. Čista dobit, bez rizika, sve je elemente pravilno posložila i ubacila u svoju jednadžbu, ali iz nje je izostavila važnu nepoznanicu; podstanara, prezgodnog i uspješnog televizijskog producenta Jacka Bakera. Jack, čini se, ima sve, a Gilly žarko želi imati njega što joj, nakon nekog vremena, i pođe za rukom, no tek tada njene nevolje počinju jer u jednom se trenu nameće očito pitanje: dok tjedne provodi s njom, što Jack radi vikendom? Isprva tiho, jedva čujno pitanje, postaje sve glasnije i pretvara se u crva sumnje koji je sve više nagriza. Potpirivanju njenih sumnji pomaže i Guy, član zajednice šetača pasa kojoj i Gilly pripada.
Klasičan zaplet ljubavnih romana; ona ima slomljeno srce, upoznaje njega, tajanstvenog i ne suviše pouzdanog, zabava se pretvara u nešto više, on polako uzmiče u strahu za svoju slobodu i tada se pojavljuje „prijatelj“, onaj koji bi za nju sve učinio, ali ona ga i ne primjećuje. Podloga gotovo svake romantične komedije i toliko puta ispričana priča. Pa zašto nam je onda još uvijek zanimljivo? Volimo sretne završetke i volimo čitati o njima, volimo vjerovati kako nas ljubav negdje čeka čak i kad mi prestanemo čekati nju i zadovoljavamo se „ako može ona, mogu i ja“ premisom. Najčešće razlog popularnosti i čitanja ljubavnih romana leži upravo u tome. No, roman Od ponedjeljka do petka odiše živošću i iskričavošću koja će na vas ostaviti jači dojam od same priče, a Alice Peterson kao autorica zavest će vas neuobičajenim stilom baš kao što će vas Gilly zavesti svojom odlučnošću i sklonošću preuzimanju kontrole, osobinama nesvojstvenim glavnoj junakinji ljubavnog romana. Iako joj nedostaje ponešto od bajkovitosti kakvu čitatelju pruža Cecelia Ahern, Peterson će vas zabaviti duhovitim dijalozima, nepredvidivim dosjetkama i likovima posve nesvojstvenim žanru kojem pripadaju.
Posve sigurno, ova će vas knjiga ohrabriti na poduzimanje velikih koraka. Ako je za njih došlo pravo vrijeme. U suprotnom, pokazat će vam kako, čak i kada mislimo da je bolje pobjeći i sakriti se, trebamo dopustiti sebi da se ponovno pronađemo i krenemo dalje. Jer nove stvari nisu uvijek „negdje drugdje“, a radost novog početka katkad je i veća u staroj sredini.
http://procitajto.com/2015/03/03/od-p...
Savjet o pravom trenutku za napuštanje grada negdje je putem „ulovila“ i Gilly Brown, Londončanka za koju je i višemilijunska britanska prijestolnica postala premalena kako bi pobjegla od slomljenog srca. Ili, bolje rečeno, od uspomena na vrijeme kada je njeno srce, još uvijek cijelo, kucalo u pravilnom duetu s drugim srcem, onim njena zaručnika koji se, netom prije vjenčanja, predomislio. Svatko tko ih nosi sa sobom zna kako uspomene mogu postati (pre)težak teret i kako lako nekoć ispunjen i sretan dom može postati prazna kuća. I vrlo je lako poželjeti stari, gradski život zamijeniti za manje bolan nastavak u novoj sredini. O takvom nastavku, iako ne sasvim sigurna u ispravnost svoje odluke, razmišlja i Gilly. Mlada je, zaposlena i prepuna ideja, grad joj ima još mnogo toga za ponuditi, a velikoj će kući udahnuti novi život otvori li vrata podstanaru koji se javio na njen oglas na stranici Od ponedjeljka do petka. Na taj bi način Gilly zadržala privatnost i slobodu vikendima i popunila kućni budžet iznajmljivanjem slobodnih soba preko tjedna. Čista dobit, bez rizika, sve je elemente pravilno posložila i ubacila u svoju jednadžbu, ali iz nje je izostavila važnu nepoznanicu; podstanara, prezgodnog i uspješnog televizijskog producenta Jacka Bakera. Jack, čini se, ima sve, a Gilly žarko želi imati njega što joj, nakon nekog vremena, i pođe za rukom, no tek tada njene nevolje počinju jer u jednom se trenu nameće očito pitanje: dok tjedne provodi s njom, što Jack radi vikendom? Isprva tiho, jedva čujno pitanje, postaje sve glasnije i pretvara se u crva sumnje koji je sve više nagriza. Potpirivanju njenih sumnji pomaže i Guy, član zajednice šetača pasa kojoj i Gilly pripada.
Klasičan zaplet ljubavnih romana; ona ima slomljeno srce, upoznaje njega, tajanstvenog i ne suviše pouzdanog, zabava se pretvara u nešto više, on polako uzmiče u strahu za svoju slobodu i tada se pojavljuje „prijatelj“, onaj koji bi za nju sve učinio, ali ona ga i ne primjećuje. Podloga gotovo svake romantične komedije i toliko puta ispričana priča. Pa zašto nam je onda još uvijek zanimljivo? Volimo sretne završetke i volimo čitati o njima, volimo vjerovati kako nas ljubav negdje čeka čak i kad mi prestanemo čekati nju i zadovoljavamo se „ako može ona, mogu i ja“ premisom. Najčešće razlog popularnosti i čitanja ljubavnih romana leži upravo u tome. No, roman Od ponedjeljka do petka odiše živošću i iskričavošću koja će na vas ostaviti jači dojam od same priče, a Alice Peterson kao autorica zavest će vas neuobičajenim stilom baš kao što će vas Gilly zavesti svojom odlučnošću i sklonošću preuzimanju kontrole, osobinama nesvojstvenim glavnoj junakinji ljubavnog romana. Iako joj nedostaje ponešto od bajkovitosti kakvu čitatelju pruža Cecelia Ahern, Peterson će vas zabaviti duhovitim dijalozima, nepredvidivim dosjetkama i likovima posve nesvojstvenim žanru kojem pripadaju.
Posve sigurno, ova će vas knjiga ohrabriti na poduzimanje velikih koraka. Ako je za njih došlo pravo vrijeme. U suprotnom, pokazat će vam kako, čak i kada mislimo da je bolje pobjeći i sakriti se, trebamo dopustiti sebi da se ponovno pronađemo i krenemo dalje. Jer nove stvari nisu uvijek „negdje drugdje“, a radost novog početka katkad je i veća u staroj sredini.
http://procitajto.com/2015/03/03/od-p...
August 1, 2014
This is a pretty decent example of comic romance though it does take a while to warm up. The female characters are far stronger than the male ones who aren't terribly interesting, sadly. Personally I would have preferred less airtime for Jack and Guy, and a greater focus on Gilly's friends and her marvellous boss - I think that would have made for a far more gripping read.
That said, aspects I very much enjoyed and which were very well written were Gilly's relationship with her twin brother and his irritating wife, and also her relationship with her life-limited sister. Really, the sister story is a tour de force of writing, and it made me cry on several occasions - and I don't even like families or children, so you can see just how powerful it was!
One plot line I found irritating or nonsensical, however, was the "deep, dark secret weekend life" Jack keeps from everyone, and which - in the Big Reveal - is supposed to make us like him even less. Um, I'm sorry? The kind of secrets he's keeping are actually rather sweet and he should definitely be congratulated for his compassion and sense of duty. I have no idea why Gilly and Guy think Jack is so dreadful for what he's done here. He most certainly is not - and I began to lose a great deal of interest in Gilly and Guy, and certainly in their opinions, at that point.
I also groaned very deeply indeed when Gilly's confusion about her lack of career is miraculously solved by her instantly becoming a best-selling writer - honestly, this was a cliche when it first arrived as a plot solver in the 1980s, and I wish writers would stop it! It's dull, unrealistic and a serious cop-out of the storyline. Besides of which, if writers were actually being realistic about the writing life, then Gilly would need to endure ten years of serial rejections, several nervous breakdowns, one or two scam publishing deals, at least one sweet-talking but ultimately useless agent, an incident involving foreign lawyers and a nasty email campaign, poor reviews (amongst some good ones), the silence of her family and the embarrassed sympathy of her friends. Put that in your pipe, Gilly, and smoke it is what I say. Harrumph already! So, writers: please get over yourselves and stop writing about writing. For the sake of all our sanities. You've got an imagination - venture outside your own heads once in a while and stop being so damn lazy.
Verdict: some good writing, but a tendency to laziness. 3 stars.
That said, aspects I very much enjoyed and which were very well written were Gilly's relationship with her twin brother and his irritating wife, and also her relationship with her life-limited sister. Really, the sister story is a tour de force of writing, and it made me cry on several occasions - and I don't even like families or children, so you can see just how powerful it was!
One plot line I found irritating or nonsensical, however, was the "deep, dark secret weekend life" Jack keeps from everyone, and which - in the Big Reveal - is supposed to make us like him even less. Um, I'm sorry? The kind of secrets he's keeping are actually rather sweet and he should definitely be congratulated for his compassion and sense of duty. I have no idea why Gilly and Guy think Jack is so dreadful for what he's done here. He most certainly is not - and I began to lose a great deal of interest in Gilly and Guy, and certainly in their opinions, at that point.
I also groaned very deeply indeed when Gilly's confusion about her lack of career is miraculously solved by her instantly becoming a best-selling writer - honestly, this was a cliche when it first arrived as a plot solver in the 1980s, and I wish writers would stop it! It's dull, unrealistic and a serious cop-out of the storyline. Besides of which, if writers were actually being realistic about the writing life, then Gilly would need to endure ten years of serial rejections, several nervous breakdowns, one or two scam publishing deals, at least one sweet-talking but ultimately useless agent, an incident involving foreign lawyers and a nasty email campaign, poor reviews (amongst some good ones), the silence of her family and the embarrassed sympathy of her friends. Put that in your pipe, Gilly, and smoke it is what I say. Harrumph already! So, writers: please get over yourselves and stop writing about writing. For the sake of all our sanities. You've got an imagination - venture outside your own heads once in a while and stop being so damn lazy.
Verdict: some good writing, but a tendency to laziness. 3 stars.
October 12, 2023
Hoş eğlenceli çerezliklerin iyilerinden.
October 1, 2012
Monday to Friday Man was one of those books that I saw on the kindle free download chart. It had a number of good reviews so I thought I’d give it a try.
It follows Gilly (with a ‘G’) who is reeling after her fiancé left her weeks before their wedding and she is at a cross roads in her life. She’s about to hit 35 and she’s not sure what she wants to do.
After much soul searching she decides to stay in London and advertise for a Monday to Friday-er – ie: Someone to rent her spare room on a Monday - Friday basis.
The story is very predictable, up until the last line but, that said, it is an easy and enjoyable read and the characters are likeable enough. I did feel that the first half of the story dragged a little; I seemed to read a lot without the story really moving on. But, once Gilly has got to where she needed to, the story moved on and kept me engaged and entertained.
I’m happy to say that this was one of the few free downloads I’ve really enjoyed, and I have a new author on my ‘to watch’ list.
It follows Gilly (with a ‘G’) who is reeling after her fiancé left her weeks before their wedding and she is at a cross roads in her life. She’s about to hit 35 and she’s not sure what she wants to do.
After much soul searching she decides to stay in London and advertise for a Monday to Friday-er – ie: Someone to rent her spare room on a Monday - Friday basis.
The story is very predictable, up until the last line but, that said, it is an easy and enjoyable read and the characters are likeable enough. I did feel that the first half of the story dragged a little; I seemed to read a lot without the story really moving on. But, once Gilly has got to where she needed to, the story moved on and kept me engaged and entertained.
I’m happy to say that this was one of the few free downloads I’ve really enjoyed, and I have a new author on my ‘to watch’ list.
September 23, 2012
I downloaded this book because it was at the top of the Kindle chart and selling at 20p. I also liked the look of the front cover, so I thought, why not?!
I am so glad that I did. Recently, I have been very lucky on the great novel front. Everything I've read recently (from authors previously unknown to me) have been great. This was no exception.
From the beginning you are drawn to the quirky main character Gilly, you just want her to have some luck in her life and for her to move on and be happy. I felt myself trying to actively encourage Gilly to make the right decisions throughout the novel, getting frustrated when Jack comes into her life.
Alice keeps you entertained and gripped throughout the novel. I loved this one so much that I am now reading 'Ten Years On' by the same author, which is very different but equally as great.
Recommended!!
I am so glad that I did. Recently, I have been very lucky on the great novel front. Everything I've read recently (from authors previously unknown to me) have been great. This was no exception.
From the beginning you are drawn to the quirky main character Gilly, you just want her to have some luck in her life and for her to move on and be happy. I felt myself trying to actively encourage Gilly to make the right decisions throughout the novel, getting frustrated when Jack comes into her life.
Alice keeps you entertained and gripped throughout the novel. I loved this one so much that I am now reading 'Ten Years On' by the same author, which is very different but equally as great.
Recommended!!
April 21, 2012
I had to order this book from the Book Depository in the UK because it isn't available for purchase in Canada. I am so glad I ordered it.
It was a light read but very entertaining. I loved the characters (especially Gilly with a G) and I think the cover is adorable. I wish there was a sequel because I want to read more about these characters! I will absolutely be looking for more books by Alice Peterson in the future.
It was a light read but very entertaining. I loved the characters (especially Gilly with a G) and I think the cover is adorable. I wish there was a sequel because I want to read more about these characters! I will absolutely be looking for more books by Alice Peterson in the future.
September 28, 2012
Easy going, likeable read. Nothing earth shattering, or heart wrenching to report. But kept me occupied for a couple of days. Perhaps a bit too far down the "chic lit" genre for me, need something a bit more gritty to get my teeth into now.
July 23, 2024
AB
I enjoyed this and found it a lot funnier than I was expecting! An easy fun read and good character development.
I enjoyed this and found it a lot funnier than I was expecting! An easy fun read and good character development.
May 2, 2021
Just finished this Book on my Kindle. Alice is one of my favourite Authors and this book has definitely kept her at the top of my list of go to Authors. Nice easy read but very good. Really enjoyed.it.
April 11, 2021
Audiobook version listened to and enjoyed.
I warmed to Gilly Brown, recovering from her fiance Ed leaving her a fortnighf before their wedding, thinking of quitting London, but ending up staying. She has a great circle of dog walking friends, an in between sort of job in an antiques place that her friend Marie runs and a twin brother Nick who has his own side order of domestic disharmony. Gilly needs a bit of extra cash though to keep things ticking overif she is to stay put and so she advertises for a Monday-Friday lodger.
What I particularly liked about this romance is that there is plenty of depth to the main characters. The twins did not have an abusive upbringing but their family was broken and shattered a long time ago, and the memories of life before it fell to pieces are so full of love that it is very difficult not to be moved by the tenderness.
Yes, there are also some very shallow characters and the plot is a typical love tussle between two suitors, one bad but hard to resist, and one gorgeously and perfectly right if only Gilly could open her eyes!
It is funny and silly and sort of relatable. It is escapism with a feel good factor and it is the sort of book where you hope two people will turn right together and find happiness, rather than one continually turning left, whilst the other turns right.
A lovely, mostly light, romantic read.
I warmed to Gilly Brown, recovering from her fiance Ed leaving her a fortnighf before their wedding, thinking of quitting London, but ending up staying. She has a great circle of dog walking friends, an in between sort of job in an antiques place that her friend Marie runs and a twin brother Nick who has his own side order of domestic disharmony. Gilly needs a bit of extra cash though to keep things ticking overif she is to stay put and so she advertises for a Monday-Friday lodger.
What I particularly liked about this romance is that there is plenty of depth to the main characters. The twins did not have an abusive upbringing but their family was broken and shattered a long time ago, and the memories of life before it fell to pieces are so full of love that it is very difficult not to be moved by the tenderness.
Yes, there are also some very shallow characters and the plot is a typical love tussle between two suitors, one bad but hard to resist, and one gorgeously and perfectly right if only Gilly could open her eyes!
It is funny and silly and sort of relatable. It is escapism with a feel good factor and it is the sort of book where you hope two people will turn right together and find happiness, rather than one continually turning left, whilst the other turns right.
A lovely, mostly light, romantic read.
September 15, 2012
Read the review on my review site here: http://justanotherbooknerd.tumblr.com...
Some of you may have seen my text post a couple of days ago where I told you all that I had had the wonderful good fortune of being sent a free book to read via a free giveaway by the site goodreads, of which I am a member.
Now I have to say, given the choice, I wouldn’t normally pick this sort of book out of a line up, but given as how the powers that be had ordained that I should be one of the fortunate souls to receive it, I decided that it should receive my immediate and utmost attention (especially since I had literally just finished reading Robinson Crusoe).
Monday to Friday man is about Gilly, ‘Spelled with a G’. Having been recently left by her fiancé she is suddenly entering a stage in her life that is plagued with self doubt, fits of loneliness and financial hardship. After a failed plan to move to Dorset (Where I live so you know) she decides to take the plunge and get in a lodger to help reduce the financial strain.
Enter the Monday to Friday website where business people pay to live in a house or apartment throughout the week and then go home at the weekends, saving them long commutes to and from London every day.
After many failed interviews with prospective lodgers Gilly eventually finds the right one in Jack Baker, a successful tv producer who ticks all the right boxes, though at the same time she makes a new friend called Guy, and he doesn’t seem so sure.
At first I had this fearful premonition that Monday to Friday man would be a novel following the same shallow strains as Bridget Jones’ diary. only to be pleasantly surprised that the book does manage to be much deeper than that.
However at this point I do have to say that at first Gilly does seem to be an utterly useless main character who seems to be fairly clueless and completely at a loss without a prince charming with whom she can entrust her life. After a while you find that you just want to give her a good wake up call and insist that she pull her head out of the sand when it comes to her relationship and adhere to the fact that everyone is telling her that something isn’t quite right. Instead she simply replies ‘great’ whenever anyone asks her about her relationship.
One could say it’s demoralising to paint women as being utterly lost without the presence of a man to guide them through life, but I would argue that this book is just describing one perspective of the broad and complex human condition. The book could just as easily have been about a man needing a woman, the basic moral to the story, the fact that everyone needs someone in their lives to help them through the dark days, would still remain intact. I think if you don’t see that in reading this book then you’re truly missing the point.
When I began this book I was, without a doubt, completely skeptical as to whether or not I would enjoy it, my inclination leaning towards not. I decided that this kind of skepticism would only serve in my favour as a reviewer simply because if it had the capacity to win me over then it would surely do the same for others like me.
Peterson has a talent. Despite myself she had me feeling the utmost pity for Gilly whenever she was sad or lonely and in turn had me grinning like a mad man when things were going well for her. As you will have read, at first I likened this book to Bridget Jones’ diary, almost instantly writing it off as ‘mum fodder,’ but now I would place it with David Nicholls’ One Day, which I am not ashamed to admit, is my absolute favourite book.
It’s hardly a complex and intellectual read, but the sometimes it really is lovely to have something that is easy and spends it’s time whisking us away into the life of another as opposed to dedicating itself to educating us.
Monday to Friday man is a book about love, a book about trust and about belief, and I am quite happy to admit that it managed to reaffirm my belief in all three. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope that others will too.
Some of you may have seen my text post a couple of days ago where I told you all that I had had the wonderful good fortune of being sent a free book to read via a free giveaway by the site goodreads, of which I am a member.
Now I have to say, given the choice, I wouldn’t normally pick this sort of book out of a line up, but given as how the powers that be had ordained that I should be one of the fortunate souls to receive it, I decided that it should receive my immediate and utmost attention (especially since I had literally just finished reading Robinson Crusoe).
Monday to Friday man is about Gilly, ‘Spelled with a G’. Having been recently left by her fiancé she is suddenly entering a stage in her life that is plagued with self doubt, fits of loneliness and financial hardship. After a failed plan to move to Dorset (Where I live so you know) she decides to take the plunge and get in a lodger to help reduce the financial strain.
Enter the Monday to Friday website where business people pay to live in a house or apartment throughout the week and then go home at the weekends, saving them long commutes to and from London every day.
After many failed interviews with prospective lodgers Gilly eventually finds the right one in Jack Baker, a successful tv producer who ticks all the right boxes, though at the same time she makes a new friend called Guy, and he doesn’t seem so sure.
At first I had this fearful premonition that Monday to Friday man would be a novel following the same shallow strains as Bridget Jones’ diary. only to be pleasantly surprised that the book does manage to be much deeper than that.
However at this point I do have to say that at first Gilly does seem to be an utterly useless main character who seems to be fairly clueless and completely at a loss without a prince charming with whom she can entrust her life. After a while you find that you just want to give her a good wake up call and insist that she pull her head out of the sand when it comes to her relationship and adhere to the fact that everyone is telling her that something isn’t quite right. Instead she simply replies ‘great’ whenever anyone asks her about her relationship.
One could say it’s demoralising to paint women as being utterly lost without the presence of a man to guide them through life, but I would argue that this book is just describing one perspective of the broad and complex human condition. The book could just as easily have been about a man needing a woman, the basic moral to the story, the fact that everyone needs someone in their lives to help them through the dark days, would still remain intact. I think if you don’t see that in reading this book then you’re truly missing the point.
When I began this book I was, without a doubt, completely skeptical as to whether or not I would enjoy it, my inclination leaning towards not. I decided that this kind of skepticism would only serve in my favour as a reviewer simply because if it had the capacity to win me over then it would surely do the same for others like me.
Peterson has a talent. Despite myself she had me feeling the utmost pity for Gilly whenever she was sad or lonely and in turn had me grinning like a mad man when things were going well for her. As you will have read, at first I likened this book to Bridget Jones’ diary, almost instantly writing it off as ‘mum fodder,’ but now I would place it with David Nicholls’ One Day, which I am not ashamed to admit, is my absolute favourite book.
It’s hardly a complex and intellectual read, but the sometimes it really is lovely to have something that is easy and spends it’s time whisking us away into the life of another as opposed to dedicating itself to educating us.
Monday to Friday man is a book about love, a book about trust and about belief, and I am quite happy to admit that it managed to reaffirm my belief in all three. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope that others will too.
April 26, 2019
3.5 chick lit. Not a bad read
August 29, 2012
Against my will I enjoyed this. What I liked was how realistic it was, and also the older age group. Meaning that over the age 30 isn't so different from being under 30, aside from the fact that people have children instead of talking about having children. There's a lot of serious issues tackled in here, but done in such (for lack of a better term) grown up way that I found myself being drawn into the lives of the characters. I did like that everyone wasn't perfect and especially the way that everyone had to deal with the consequences of their actions. This is very much a cut above your normal 'rom-com' novel for sure. I read it in a few hours but I could definitely read it again.
September 10, 2012
A lovely, light holiday read. The author made the characters likeable and I especially liked the 'flashbacks' to the childhood of the main character, Gilly. They gave enough information about her relationship with her twin brother, their loss of their disabled younger sister Megan and the subsequent 'loss' of their mother to make the character real and believable.
The ending was somewhat predictable but the journey was enjoyable! This is the second book I have read by Alice Petersen and I will certainly read more in the future.
The ending was somewhat predictable but the journey was enjoyable! This is the second book I have read by Alice Petersen and I will certainly read more in the future.
July 31, 2012
Picked this book up for 20p from amazon. Did not expect very much of it at all..... I was in for a shock! I loved it! A very easy read with lots of lovely characters (Loved Gilly with a g and her dog walking friends!)
Ok the story was a little predictable maybe as it is a typical chick lit book but I was gripped to this and couldn't put it down. Would definetly look into more books by this author.
Ok the story was a little predictable maybe as it is a typical chick lit book but I was gripped to this and couldn't put it down. Would definetly look into more books by this author.
June 17, 2014
I wasn't too keen on the written style of this novel. It jumped around from thing to thing, and some of the information we were given seemed utterly erroneous when looking at the particular scene it was given in. I also wasn't keen on the main character - she seemed so flighty, and how on earth was she able to live the lifestyle she had (going out all the time for food and drinks in central London) on the salary of what seemed like a part-time shop assistant? Not realistic, and not engaging.
January 25, 2016
You know what to expect in terms of a story when you pick up a book like this, but oh dear, I couldn't help but wonder if it was the authors own prejudices that she used to create her character or just a collection of dull clichés cobbled together. (35 on the shelf over and over again, long legged, beautiful, flat shoes, dull underpants...) Either way I cared not a jot about whatever her name was or the wee dog or the friend oh or any bloody one. Disappointing.
July 27, 2012
typical chick lit, and I dont say that in a bad way, sometimes its good to read something where you know how its going to end on the first page, and not very much is a surprise... and there are so many cliches...
June 11, 2017
Light hearted read to enjoy during the school term, left me feeling substantially statified as it concluded with happy ending although quite cliche. Recommend for quick read but not worth remembering as a special book.
April 3, 2019
Though it is the easy read you expect it to be, I've enjoyed it quite a lot. I needed a break from more advanced written books and this was exactly what I needed. Lovely love story with insights from a sad childhood loss that got to me.
September 13, 2012
Got this book for 69p and it was a bargain!
Really good read. The characters became like friends! good heartwarming chick lit and a great story with strong characters.
Want to read
August 24, 2012This book has knocked that "50 Shades" book from the top spot of Bestselling Kindle books on Amazon UK, so I just had to see what it was like ;-).
December 9, 2012
A light fun read. Really enjoyed it.
September 9, 2013
amazing book with a brilliant twist
November 17, 2013
Knew it was Guy at the onset..
January 12, 2019
Great idea and a good book.
September 2, 2025
Book: Monday to Friday Man
(But what does he do at the weekend?)
Rating: 4.5/5.00
This story follows Gilly Brown, a woman in her mid-30s living in London. After her fiancé calls off their relationship, she feels lonely, heartbroken, and lost. With the support and encouragement of her friends, she gradually regains her confidence and begins to rebuild her life.
Struggling with her mortgage, Gilly comes up with the idea of renting out her spare room. She advertises for a lodger and eventually meets Jack, who becomes her “Monday to Friday Man.” At first, their relationship is simply landlord and tenant, but over time it grows into something more intimate. Jack, charming and good-looking, gives Gilly hope after her painful breakup with Edward. However, Jack is hiding a secret that changes everything.
Alongside this, Gilly joins a circle of dog-walking friends. They gossip, share stories, and support one another through ups and downs. Among them is a man Gilly simply calls “Guy,” as she never asks for his real name. Though they are not especially close at first, he becomes a trusted companion.
The turning point comes when Nancy, Gilly’s sister-in-law, organizes a birthday party where both Jack and Guy are present. Friends begin to suspect Jack is not being honest, and even Guy warns Gilly to be cautious. Upset, Gilly argues with him—until the truth about Jack is revealed.
Heartbroken, Gilly takes time away with her friend Susie and her children to reflect on her life. She recalls painful childhood memories of her sister Megan’s death and their mother’s decision to leave the family, which left lasting scars. Despite this, Gilly remembers her father’s strength and the bond she shares with her brother Nick, and she slowly realizes that life, while difficult, still holds joy and hope.
In the end, Gilly discovers that Guy—whose real name is Mr. Cox—has loved her all along. Unlike Jack, his feelings are sincere, and together they begin a genuine relationship filled with hope for the future. Meanwhile, Nancy and Nick divorce amicably and commit to co-parenting their children, Hannah and Matilda.
Review:
This book is straightforward, heartfelt, and engaging. It beautifully balances drama, friendship, and romance, showing how love and resilience can help heal even the deepest wounds. If you’re looking for an enjoyable and uplifting read, I highly recommend it.
(But what does he do at the weekend?)
Rating: 4.5/5.00
This story follows Gilly Brown, a woman in her mid-30s living in London. After her fiancé calls off their relationship, she feels lonely, heartbroken, and lost. With the support and encouragement of her friends, she gradually regains her confidence and begins to rebuild her life.
Struggling with her mortgage, Gilly comes up with the idea of renting out her spare room. She advertises for a lodger and eventually meets Jack, who becomes her “Monday to Friday Man.” At first, their relationship is simply landlord and tenant, but over time it grows into something more intimate. Jack, charming and good-looking, gives Gilly hope after her painful breakup with Edward. However, Jack is hiding a secret that changes everything.
Alongside this, Gilly joins a circle of dog-walking friends. They gossip, share stories, and support one another through ups and downs. Among them is a man Gilly simply calls “Guy,” as she never asks for his real name. Though they are not especially close at first, he becomes a trusted companion.
The turning point comes when Nancy, Gilly’s sister-in-law, organizes a birthday party where both Jack and Guy are present. Friends begin to suspect Jack is not being honest, and even Guy warns Gilly to be cautious. Upset, Gilly argues with him—until the truth about Jack is revealed.
Heartbroken, Gilly takes time away with her friend Susie and her children to reflect on her life. She recalls painful childhood memories of her sister Megan’s death and their mother’s decision to leave the family, which left lasting scars. Despite this, Gilly remembers her father’s strength and the bond she shares with her brother Nick, and she slowly realizes that life, while difficult, still holds joy and hope.
In the end, Gilly discovers that Guy—whose real name is Mr. Cox—has loved her all along. Unlike Jack, his feelings are sincere, and together they begin a genuine relationship filled with hope for the future. Meanwhile, Nancy and Nick divorce amicably and commit to co-parenting their children, Hannah and Matilda.
Review:
This book is straightforward, heartfelt, and engaging. It beautifully balances drama, friendship, and romance, showing how love and resilience can help heal even the deepest wounds. If you’re looking for an enjoyable and uplifting read, I highly recommend it.
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