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The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken
Zoë Clark thinks her world will implode when her fiancé dumps her on the eve of their splashy wedding. After nearly a decade with her college sweetheart, Zoë feels like a teenager about to be eaten alive by the New York dating scene. And her problems don’t end there. Zoë works a less-than-ideal job, managing other people’s careers while her own ambitions wither. To add insult to injury, she does so in the employ of a larger than life woman whose staff measures the boss’s emotional state by the zealousness of her make up application. Quitting is out of the question; Zoë’s rent doubled when her fiancé bailed. Enter Oscar Thornton. He’s handsome, charming, attentive and rich - the perfect boyfriend. But does he harbor a dark secret? Or will Zoë torpedo her newfound happiness by indulging a far fetched suspicion? The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken tells the story of a young woman who sets out to find a man to solve her problems. Instead she finds herself facing her own shortcomings, testing her oldest friendships and realizing that she has the power to make herself happy. Packed with snappy dialogue and playful wit, The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken will strike a chord with any woman who’s ever allowed herself to think, My life would be perfect, if I could just meet the right guy.
267 pages, Paperback
First published July 9, 2011
12 people are currently reading
809 people want to read
About the author
Mari Passananti
3 books19 followersThank you very much for stopping by my page.
I'm the author of two novels, THE HAZARDS OF HUNTING WHILE HEARTBROKEN and THE K STREET AFFAIR. I love book clubs, and would be honored and delighted to visit yours—either in person in the Boston area, or anywhere in the world via Skype.
I live in Boston, where I divide my time between writing and trying to keep up with my preschooler. I'm hard at work on a third novel.
My other interests include the outdoors, travel, anything to do with horses, rescuing dogs, and good food.
I'm the author of two novels, THE HAZARDS OF HUNTING WHILE HEARTBROKEN and THE K STREET AFFAIR. I love book clubs, and would be honored and delighted to visit yours—either in person in the Boston area, or anywhere in the world via Skype.
I live in Boston, where I divide my time between writing and trying to keep up with my preschooler. I'm hard at work on a third novel.
My other interests include the outdoors, travel, anything to do with horses, rescuing dogs, and good food.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 24, 2011
When Zoe Clark's fiancé dumps her just before their big splashy wedding and after more than a decade together, she is stunned. And blindsided. When she discovers why, she suddenly doubts her instincts, her abilities to even have a relationship. And her job as a headhunter for a micromanaging, sometimes crazy boss doesn't give her much confidence, either.
After a period of mourning, time well spent in the company of best friends Angela and Kevin, she is suddenly swept up into what looks like a perfect relationship with the gorgeous advertising executive who works across the street. But is Oscar Thornton who he seems to be? And if something seems perfect, or too good to be true, what if it isn't?
I loved the characters in this story, from the great friendships between Zoe, Angela, and Kevin to the work relationships with people like Marvin, who sips from a flask in his desk, to New Girl, who tries very hard to forge her own way in the headhunting world. Even the micromanaging boss Carol made me laugh, as I recognized in her some of the bosses I've had over the years, one in particular.
But Oscar...now he was like a fictional hero, with his good looks, his charm, his money, and how he seemed to know just the right moves. In some ways, I really wanted him to be what he seemed, even as I knew he wouldn't be.
I was a bit surprised by events that unfolded, but then again, someone that perfect has to be hiding something big.
I especially enjoyed how the book ended, with Zoe finally realizing that, in order to be happy, she has to know what she wants. And she has to realize that happiness is an inside job. She has to make herself happy.
Great metaphorical connection between headhunting as a career and "hunting" for a new lover. "The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken" is a wonderful five-star read that I recommend for anyone who loves books about careers, relationships, and Manhattan.
After a period of mourning, time well spent in the company of best friends Angela and Kevin, she is suddenly swept up into what looks like a perfect relationship with the gorgeous advertising executive who works across the street. But is Oscar Thornton who he seems to be? And if something seems perfect, or too good to be true, what if it isn't?
I loved the characters in this story, from the great friendships between Zoe, Angela, and Kevin to the work relationships with people like Marvin, who sips from a flask in his desk, to New Girl, who tries very hard to forge her own way in the headhunting world. Even the micromanaging boss Carol made me laugh, as I recognized in her some of the bosses I've had over the years, one in particular.
But Oscar...now he was like a fictional hero, with his good looks, his charm, his money, and how he seemed to know just the right moves. In some ways, I really wanted him to be what he seemed, even as I knew he wouldn't be.
I was a bit surprised by events that unfolded, but then again, someone that perfect has to be hiding something big.
I especially enjoyed how the book ended, with Zoe finally realizing that, in order to be happy, she has to know what she wants. And she has to realize that happiness is an inside job. She has to make herself happy.
Great metaphorical connection between headhunting as a career and "hunting" for a new lover. "The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken" is a wonderful five-star read that I recommend for anyone who loves books about careers, relationships, and Manhattan.
May 17, 2014
I received this book as a first reads winner.
The book started out very slow and I was having a difficult time getting into it. At one point I had already given this book 3 stars, then by another point I thought "ok maybe 4 stars" and before I knew it I was tumbling head over heels into 5 stars. I love that the novel has well developed characters that feel as real to you as if they were your own friends. The one complaint I have is there is another story in there, that I would have liked to have had more time reading and possibly have seen it develop. I may be the only one, but I'm really hoping she creates a follow up novel to this one. Over all I found myself loving this book and would definitely recommend it to someone who is looking for more substance in their reading.
***stop here if you don't want spoilers***
The rest of this review is reviewing my specific thoughts on certain aspects of the book.
Oscar was a well served purpose character beautifully and strategically written. Sometimes the "other guy"- the one you're not supposed to want the heroine to end up with- is someone equally as likable as the guy you do want her to end up with and that leaves the reader feeling confused. I like that I never once felt a spark for Oscar the way Zoe thought she did. (Also I like that all I could think of was Oscar the Grouch.)
When I read a book and two people are just right for each other I get a zing of electricity every time they're together. That's how I felt about Kevin and Zoe. I would have loved to have seen more of that story develop, but it's obvious for the purpose of the book why the Oscar story went on and left the Kevin story for another time, I liked that the story did feel almost "real-time." And the ending of this novel did make sense for Zoe's life. She is such a realistic character it would have been crazy for her not to tip toe with Kevin. With as adorable as he is and as much mishap as happens to Zoe their romance would be more believable slow with some perfect moments, some funny moments and some unhappy moments. And I respect the author for not getting ahead of herself with emotions like I would have.
I knew something was fishy about Oscar and I had some suspicions but the major crime he committed was an exciting and unexpected twist which brought the book to a whole new level. I have infinite respect for any author who can write a book with multiple genres intermixed. It's like a culinary art of novels, "a dash of this a pinch of that". This book is one of only 2 books I have ever read that have ever had that level of this "culinary art."
Mari Passananti nailed it on this novel. I really hope to see what lies ahead for Kevin and Zoe both romantically and in their respective careers. And Angela and Claudio as well. I think this book could be seen as a "leave it up to your imagination" ending but I. really think there's more story than that. You don't have 10+ years of solid friendship with someone for the next few years not to be interesting!
Thank you Mrs. Passananti for writing such an unexpected and wonderful novel.
The book started out very slow and I was having a difficult time getting into it. At one point I had already given this book 3 stars, then by another point I thought "ok maybe 4 stars" and before I knew it I was tumbling head over heels into 5 stars. I love that the novel has well developed characters that feel as real to you as if they were your own friends. The one complaint I have is there is another story in there, that I would have liked to have had more time reading and possibly have seen it develop. I may be the only one, but I'm really hoping she creates a follow up novel to this one. Over all I found myself loving this book and would definitely recommend it to someone who is looking for more substance in their reading.
***stop here if you don't want spoilers***
The rest of this review is reviewing my specific thoughts on certain aspects of the book.
Oscar was a well served purpose character beautifully and strategically written. Sometimes the "other guy"- the one you're not supposed to want the heroine to end up with- is someone equally as likable as the guy you do want her to end up with and that leaves the reader feeling confused. I like that I never once felt a spark for Oscar the way Zoe thought she did. (Also I like that all I could think of was Oscar the Grouch.)
When I read a book and two people are just right for each other I get a zing of electricity every time they're together. That's how I felt about Kevin and Zoe. I would have loved to have seen more of that story develop, but it's obvious for the purpose of the book why the Oscar story went on and left the Kevin story for another time, I liked that the story did feel almost "real-time." And the ending of this novel did make sense for Zoe's life. She is such a realistic character it would have been crazy for her not to tip toe with Kevin. With as adorable as he is and as much mishap as happens to Zoe their romance would be more believable slow with some perfect moments, some funny moments and some unhappy moments. And I respect the author for not getting ahead of herself with emotions like I would have.
I knew something was fishy about Oscar and I had some suspicions but the major crime he committed was an exciting and unexpected twist which brought the book to a whole new level. I have infinite respect for any author who can write a book with multiple genres intermixed. It's like a culinary art of novels, "a dash of this a pinch of that". This book is one of only 2 books I have ever read that have ever had that level of this "culinary art."
Mari Passananti nailed it on this novel. I really hope to see what lies ahead for Kevin and Zoe both romantically and in their respective careers. And Angela and Claudio as well. I think this book could be seen as a "leave it up to your imagination" ending but I. really think there's more story than that. You don't have 10+ years of solid friendship with someone for the next few years not to be interesting!
Thank you Mrs. Passananti for writing such an unexpected and wonderful novel.
December 17, 2011
I confess that the cover and title of this book did not draw me in. The summary, however; did. I couldn't help but feel badly for Zoë---can you imagine planning an entire wedding only to have your fiancé call it off at the last minute? And to add insult to injury, it's not because he doesn't love Zoë, it's for another reason entirely. I'll let you read the book for yourself to figure that out, but it makes the end of the relationship even more embarrassing and heartbreaking for Zoë.
So here Zoë is, trying to figure out how she will make her rent after Brandon moves out, working in a job she doesn't love. She is a head-hunter for the legal field and has to do some pretty demeaning things to keep her clients happy. Zoë is paid on commission and worries constantly about making enough money to keep her apartment.
One day, she receives a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Oscar, who works in the building across the way and has been secretly watching Zoë through the window (in a non-creepy way). She is thrilled and excited to finally have a date and they enter a whirlwind relationship. Zoë has doubts about Oscar though, but instead of listening to her good friend Kevin, pushes her doubts to the side in light of all of Oscar's good qualities.
I found the beginning of The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken to be a little slow, but it picked up and got really exciting in the second half. I suspected some things about Oscar and Kevin all along, although I did not suspect the extent of what was really going on. I loved the ending, and I loved Zoë's growth throughout the book.
I thought The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken was great chick lit, smart, funny, and engaging. I loved the escape into Zoë's world. I would definitely read Mari Passananti again!
So here Zoë is, trying to figure out how she will make her rent after Brandon moves out, working in a job she doesn't love. She is a head-hunter for the legal field and has to do some pretty demeaning things to keep her clients happy. Zoë is paid on commission and worries constantly about making enough money to keep her apartment.
One day, she receives a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Oscar, who works in the building across the way and has been secretly watching Zoë through the window (in a non-creepy way). She is thrilled and excited to finally have a date and they enter a whirlwind relationship. Zoë has doubts about Oscar though, but instead of listening to her good friend Kevin, pushes her doubts to the side in light of all of Oscar's good qualities.
I found the beginning of The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken to be a little slow, but it picked up and got really exciting in the second half. I suspected some things about Oscar and Kevin all along, although I did not suspect the extent of what was really going on. I loved the ending, and I loved Zoë's growth throughout the book.
I thought The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken was great chick lit, smart, funny, and engaging. I loved the escape into Zoë's world. I would definitely read Mari Passananti again!
October 24, 2011
Who said chick lit was dead? The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken, is a witty, entertaining reminder of what made the genre all the rage.
Heroine Zoë Clark is a New York City headhunter wounded from having been dumped by her fiancé on the eve of their splashy wedding. Stuck in a dreary job with a bipolar boss from hell and deeply humiliated from having learned that in face her fiance was gay, Zoe can’t believe her luck when the handsome, charming wealthy Oscar Thornton begins to court her in earnest. Sensitive and attentive, Oscar also cooks Zoe gourmet meals in his luxurious Manhattan home, treats her to evenings at the opera (orchestra seats, of course) and offers her rides in his shiny Mercedes. As their romance blossoms, though, so does Zoe’s hilariously keen sense of observation and self-critique, which adds tremendous depth to the narrative and ultimately leads her to discover Oscar’s dark secret and her own inner strength.
Passananti has created a cast of vibrant characters who may appear stereotypical at times but whose exaggerated quirks are exactly what makes The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken so humorous. Organic humor and stereotypes that are actually funny are not easy to achieve, but Passananti has done a brilliant job with both.
A delicious, great-for-the-beach page turner by a talented indie author. Highly recommended!
Heroine Zoë Clark is a New York City headhunter wounded from having been dumped by her fiancé on the eve of their splashy wedding. Stuck in a dreary job with a bipolar boss from hell and deeply humiliated from having learned that in face her fiance was gay, Zoe can’t believe her luck when the handsome, charming wealthy Oscar Thornton begins to court her in earnest. Sensitive and attentive, Oscar also cooks Zoe gourmet meals in his luxurious Manhattan home, treats her to evenings at the opera (orchestra seats, of course) and offers her rides in his shiny Mercedes. As their romance blossoms, though, so does Zoe’s hilariously keen sense of observation and self-critique, which adds tremendous depth to the narrative and ultimately leads her to discover Oscar’s dark secret and her own inner strength.
Passananti has created a cast of vibrant characters who may appear stereotypical at times but whose exaggerated quirks are exactly what makes The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken so humorous. Organic humor and stereotypes that are actually funny are not easy to achieve, but Passananti has done a brilliant job with both.
A delicious, great-for-the-beach page turner by a talented indie author. Highly recommended!
June 20, 2013
Mari Passananti's book, "The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken" is a definite thriller. I enjoyed a female protagonist who could both wear stilettos and fight for her life. A very dark read I couldn't put down as long as I could glimpse that light at the end of the tunnel.
December 29, 2011
After suffering the devastating loss of an engagement only a month prior to her wedding date Zoë Clark is throwing everything into her incredibly demanding headhunting job. Zoë’s boss Carol is the type of women that expects nothing less and when the sudden appearance of not only one but two bouquets of roses land on Zoë’s desk she’s not at all happy with the effect on the Feng Shui of the office. Little does she know but the flowers are the beginning of a new life for Zoë, but is she ready for the the questions and complications Oscar Thornton brings? Will she be able to accept his devotion or is there more to his affection than simply falling head over heels in love with her? Only time and Zoë will be able to determine that.
What an absolutely fantastic debut novel! With The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken Mari Passananti has made her mark on the world of Chick Lit. Within a matter of a few hours I completely devoured Zoë Clark’s story and her struggles to cope with the loss of not only her engagement but her best friend. Zoë was an unbelievably fun character to read with her quirky non-stop second guessing and her demanding boss pulling on her every nerve I couldn’t help but love everything about her. The sudden appearance of Oscar Thornton was so romantic! I loved that he had seen her from a building across the street. Yes, a bit stalker-like, but still very romantic. Unfortunately Zoë can’t help but second guess his intentions, though I’m certainly not going to spoil the ending for other readers of this fantastic novel you’ll definitely want to read to the very last pages!
It’s hard to imagine working in a business like headhunting but Zoë seems to be able to handle the manic state of her boss Carol and the overwhelming demands she places on her. At first I was under the impression, from the synopsis, that she really hated working in the headhunting business and longed to be in the art world, but it was more that she preferred to work independently in her own gallery than for another gallery owner making headhunting actually better. That being said, can you imagine working for a boss who cusses like a sailor so loudly that you can’t talk to your clients while she’s in the office? Wow. It definitely made for an interesting work environment.
One of the aspects I loved the most about the story was Zoë’s personality and her need to second guess everything. She was completely believable, especially considering her recent break-up. Having been the recipient of similar news in the past (though I wasn’t engaged) I can completely understand why she’d be hesitant to get involved in anything too deep, especially with someone who’s a near stranger/stalker. Her second guessing coupled with the opinions of her two friends Angela & Kevin were at times hilarious and pertinent.
Be prepared to be swept off your feet, laugh hysterically at times and roll your eyes at the many situations Zoë seems to constantly find herself in. If you are a fan of Chick Lit or simply on the lookout for an excellently well-written novel than you should certainly pick up The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken. Mari Passananti is an author to be on the lookout for and one I’m eager to read again in the very near future!
Originally reviewed and copyrighted at my review site, Chick Lit Reviews and News.
What an absolutely fantastic debut novel! With The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken Mari Passananti has made her mark on the world of Chick Lit. Within a matter of a few hours I completely devoured Zoë Clark’s story and her struggles to cope with the loss of not only her engagement but her best friend. Zoë was an unbelievably fun character to read with her quirky non-stop second guessing and her demanding boss pulling on her every nerve I couldn’t help but love everything about her. The sudden appearance of Oscar Thornton was so romantic! I loved that he had seen her from a building across the street. Yes, a bit stalker-like, but still very romantic. Unfortunately Zoë can’t help but second guess his intentions, though I’m certainly not going to spoil the ending for other readers of this fantastic novel you’ll definitely want to read to the very last pages!
It’s hard to imagine working in a business like headhunting but Zoë seems to be able to handle the manic state of her boss Carol and the overwhelming demands she places on her. At first I was under the impression, from the synopsis, that she really hated working in the headhunting business and longed to be in the art world, but it was more that she preferred to work independently in her own gallery than for another gallery owner making headhunting actually better. That being said, can you imagine working for a boss who cusses like a sailor so loudly that you can’t talk to your clients while she’s in the office? Wow. It definitely made for an interesting work environment.
One of the aspects I loved the most about the story was Zoë’s personality and her need to second guess everything. She was completely believable, especially considering her recent break-up. Having been the recipient of similar news in the past (though I wasn’t engaged) I can completely understand why she’d be hesitant to get involved in anything too deep, especially with someone who’s a near stranger/stalker. Her second guessing coupled with the opinions of her two friends Angela & Kevin were at times hilarious and pertinent.
Be prepared to be swept off your feet, laugh hysterically at times and roll your eyes at the many situations Zoë seems to constantly find herself in. If you are a fan of Chick Lit or simply on the lookout for an excellently well-written novel than you should certainly pick up The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken. Mari Passananti is an author to be on the lookout for and one I’m eager to read again in the very near future!
Originally reviewed and copyrighted at my review site, Chick Lit Reviews and News.
May 13, 2012
The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken, by Mari Passananti, is a funny, chic, and poignant novel about a modern day woman searching for her Prince Charming. Zoë lives in New York and has a complex job that is nowhere close to what her College degree is in. Still, things seem mostly perfect in her life. She is planning the wedding of the year, lives in a terrific apartment, and has two best friends that have been with her since her freshman year in college. However, Zoë's world is turned upside down when she is dumped by her fiancé. After a good deal of wallowing in self-pity, her best friends, Angela and Kevin, are determined that Zoë put down the ice cream, take a shower, and not become the deranged Cat Lady everyone knows. Things start looking up for Zoë when she finds herself with a secret admirer. On the outside Oscar seems like the perfect man...or is he?
I thoroughly enjoyed Passananti's, The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken. It is the perfect beach, vacation, or 'I need to escape reality' read. The 3-diminsional characters felt real, as did their individual situations. Passananti did a great job in weaving the lives of Angela, Kevin, and Oscar around her main character, Zoë. Ultra chic Angela has a great job in the fashion world and is on all of the up and coming lists. Smart and charming Kevin runs the mayoral campaign for a popular candidate. Oscar, Zoë's rich boyfriend, has a past he keeps hidden, an ex-wife that keeps showing up unexpectedly, and secrets that Zoë finds hard to ingnore. Top it off with Carol, Zoë's boss from Hell, and you have a hilarious, romantic, and edge of your seat read.
Angela, Kevin, and Carol all went through major changes throughout the book. However, the character that went through the biggest change was Zoë. Zoë started out as a woman who found her self worth in men. She always had a significant other and did not know who she was without one. When she found herself alone, Zoë became depressed and helpless. All of the day to day chores seemed pointless and complicated. Throughout the book Zoë starts to transform into an independent women who realizes that she has to be happy with herself before she can be happy with a significant other. This is a great lesson for all women today.
Passananti did a great job in creating and breathing life into her New York high society world. Everything felt real from the fashion, restaurants, clubs, parties, and even the New York landscape. Passananti was also able to create a world for Zoë and her friends to reside in that resonates with what I actually believe New York living to be like. However, my favorite parts of the book came when Zoë was at her job. I found myself laughing out loud at the situations Zoë and her colleagues found themselves in. Furthermore, there were more than a few times that I had to pick my jaw up from the floor after I read about some of Carol's antics.
Passananti's, The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken is a book that I will definitely recommend to all of my girlfriends. If you are looking for a light, funny, quick read, The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken is for you!
I thoroughly enjoyed Passananti's, The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken. It is the perfect beach, vacation, or 'I need to escape reality' read. The 3-diminsional characters felt real, as did their individual situations. Passananti did a great job in weaving the lives of Angela, Kevin, and Oscar around her main character, Zoë. Ultra chic Angela has a great job in the fashion world and is on all of the up and coming lists. Smart and charming Kevin runs the mayoral campaign for a popular candidate. Oscar, Zoë's rich boyfriend, has a past he keeps hidden, an ex-wife that keeps showing up unexpectedly, and secrets that Zoë finds hard to ingnore. Top it off with Carol, Zoë's boss from Hell, and you have a hilarious, romantic, and edge of your seat read.
Angela, Kevin, and Carol all went through major changes throughout the book. However, the character that went through the biggest change was Zoë. Zoë started out as a woman who found her self worth in men. She always had a significant other and did not know who she was without one. When she found herself alone, Zoë became depressed and helpless. All of the day to day chores seemed pointless and complicated. Throughout the book Zoë starts to transform into an independent women who realizes that she has to be happy with herself before she can be happy with a significant other. This is a great lesson for all women today.
Passananti did a great job in creating and breathing life into her New York high society world. Everything felt real from the fashion, restaurants, clubs, parties, and even the New York landscape. Passananti was also able to create a world for Zoë and her friends to reside in that resonates with what I actually believe New York living to be like. However, my favorite parts of the book came when Zoë was at her job. I found myself laughing out loud at the situations Zoë and her colleagues found themselves in. Furthermore, there were more than a few times that I had to pick my jaw up from the floor after I read about some of Carol's antics.
Passananti's, The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken is a book that I will definitely recommend to all of my girlfriends. If you are looking for a light, funny, quick read, The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken is for you!
June 5, 2015
*I won this book through GoodReads First Reads*
May contain spoilers.
Wow, I seriously don't know why it took me so long to finish this thing. It was a pretty great book! Actually, I honestly think it took so long because it just didn't draw me in at first. Yes, unfortunately this was not an "I-was-hooked-instantly" kind of book. But nonetheless, it turned out to be a... Good Read... huh? Huh? Anyone? ...No? Oookay, moving on.
*Ahem*
In a nutshell, my thoughts on this book are: pretty good storyline, annoying characters, but with a terrific ending.
Okay I'm just going to lay it on you here, because this is really the only problem I had with this book. I hate these characters. I mean seriously, if they really existed (and the scary part is I'm sure people like them really do) I would straight up feel like shoving my boot down their throats. This holds particularly true of the main character. I cannot relate to Zoe at all. Not one iota. She has so many characteristics I find annoying (namely her intense concern about how others perceive her) that it literally distracted me from the story at times. Angela is the same way to a lesser degree. I can't relate, and some of the things she says... I just want to smack her. Nobody else is even noteworthy. Kevin is just your typical, cliche best guy friend , and Oscar is your typical "hiding-stuff" jerk. I couldn't relate to any of them, and I would even go so far as to say that at least once I wanted to give them all a good pow in the kisser.
The story was a whole different matter entirely - the ending especially. I predicted the ending around the middle of the book, but to be honest, it was a lucky guess. The amount of suspense was perfect and the plot was so interesting. And the end! The end was phenomenal because of the lesson that Zoe learned (FINALLY I can relate to her a little! Such a shame it took until literally the last ten pages). I recently went through a phase in my life where I learned the exact lesson Zoe learns: You don't have to rely on anyone but you to make you happy, and let me tell you, figuring that out was the most liberating thing that could have possibly happened to me. Passananti captures the feeling so well. This was the absolute highlight of the book. This is what made it worth reading.
So in conclusion, I wasn't so thrilled by this book at first, but the more I read, the more the story drew me in. I don't think I would recommend it (Those characters... I just can't) but on the other hand, I've surprised myself before. It was definitely worth the read once for me, personally, even if I never recommend it to anyone else. I commend Passananti on a job well done!
March 24, 2015
I bought this book directly from the author when she was selling copies at our gym. When I asked her to give me a quick description of her book, she said it was "a beach book," which isn't really my taste. In trying to be supportive of other local writers, I bought a copy and was happy to try it on for size. The book ended up being better than I anticipated, although, as I thought, it wasn't really my taste in subject matter. I thought there was great use of vocabulary throughout the book and the sentences were well structured most times. Even though I wasn't a fan of the story itself, I thought the author created well-rounded and likable characters. My biggest problem, or distraction, was that I found mistakes in the book that easily could have been fixed. I remember talking with the author and she told me she self-published the book. Considering the entire publishing industry is in flux, I don't see a problem with self-publishing if you've got something of substance (which I would argue this book does), but the book needs to be held to the same industry standards, if not higher standards, than traditionally published books. I found three mistakes that would have been found if this book had passed one more set of fresh eyes before going to press. They're understandable mistakes (a "Martin" instead of "Marvin," a "than" instead of "that," and an "in" instead of "is") but it's just not acceptable when the chosen creative medium is words. It's like ordering a pizza with peppers, mushrooms, and onions but only receiving a peppers and onion pizza -- sure, it's still tasty and mostly what you ordered, and paid for no less, but it's still not quite right. And it leaves you wondering if you'll order from that pizza shop again or simply try elsewhere. Overall, I'd recommend this book to people who enjoy a good "beach read," and I'd be curious to read other works written by the author, but this work in particular won't be going on my favorites shelf.
May 28, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The main character (to me) was real. She wasn’t some head strong woman who understood every single detail about her life and what she wanted. She was a woman who got caught in throws of life. Twice. Who among hasn’t dated a loser? Or held onto a relationship because it was convenient and better than being alone – at least for a little while. I have met a handful of women who are 100% certain of who they are and what they want. This book appeals to the other 98 percent of the women I know. Zoe is not portrayed as being overly self-conscious in an outward way. She has a deeper self that we as a reader see. We learn about her insecurities through thoughtful inner analysis. Not the type of monologues that are successful in adding length to a story. Her reflections are pertinent and revealing in a creative way which complement the story. While Zoe plays the wallflower (at least compared to the other female characters in the book), her best friend Angela and her boss Carol, are both outwardly confident women. However, through the course of the story, we see what is behind the scenes, and are exposed to their own insecurities and doubts. The inclusion of these characters and how they are developed throughout the course of the story bring everything together.
The pace of the story is appropriate. I enjoyed the foreshadowing used to give the reader ideas about where things were headed, without revealing a completely obvious storyline. I also enjoyed the inclusion of humor, especially with her family and her boss.
In my opinion, the book is about finding yourself through life’s difficult experiences, and using those experiences to understand who you are and what you want. If there were a follow up book, I would definitely read it.
The pace of the story is appropriate. I enjoyed the foreshadowing used to give the reader ideas about where things were headed, without revealing a completely obvious storyline. I also enjoyed the inclusion of humor, especially with her family and her boss.
In my opinion, the book is about finding yourself through life’s difficult experiences, and using those experiences to understand who you are and what you want. If there were a follow up book, I would definitely read it.
September 26, 2011
Zoe Clark wasn’t having the best year. A week before her wedding her fiancé (and housemate of over 10 years) finally “comes out.” Then he uses the paper they had chosen for invitations for invitations for his upcoming nuptials to: his boyfriend.
Zoe works as a headhunter for possibly the most manic woman I’ve ever read about. Carol is nuts. Totally. It seems as though her life’s mission is to take her employees into the asylum with her. But for some reason, Zoe is a favored child and, since she did triumph in getting a lawyer to sign and earn the company over 600K in signing bonuses, she is let off the hook (sort of).
Then come the flowers from a secret admirer across the way who seems too good to be true. Remember what your mom always told you? This would have been a good time to listen. Still, Oscar wines and dines Zoe, goes home to meet her nutso family on Thanksgiving and proposes to her in front of them!
In the background are Kevin and Angela. College best friends and confidantes. Angela is a hard working, hard loving account executive and Kevin is currently managing the campaign for the hopefully the next mayor of New York. Too bad they can’t manage themselves as well!
Mari Passananti has written a fabulous debut novel about love, careers in the Big Apple and secrets. The characters are well-written and very true to life. The background stories are great and I absolutely loved Carol, the manic from hell. Here’s to many more Passananti tales!
Zoe works as a headhunter for possibly the most manic woman I’ve ever read about. Carol is nuts. Totally. It seems as though her life’s mission is to take her employees into the asylum with her. But for some reason, Zoe is a favored child and, since she did triumph in getting a lawyer to sign and earn the company over 600K in signing bonuses, she is let off the hook (sort of).
Then come the flowers from a secret admirer across the way who seems too good to be true. Remember what your mom always told you? This would have been a good time to listen. Still, Oscar wines and dines Zoe, goes home to meet her nutso family on Thanksgiving and proposes to her in front of them!
In the background are Kevin and Angela. College best friends and confidantes. Angela is a hard working, hard loving account executive and Kevin is currently managing the campaign for the hopefully the next mayor of New York. Too bad they can’t manage themselves as well!
Mari Passananti has written a fabulous debut novel about love, careers in the Big Apple and secrets. The characters are well-written and very true to life. The background stories are great and I absolutely loved Carol, the manic from hell. Here’s to many more Passananti tales!
December 14, 2011
Zoe Clark is devastated when her fiancée ends their decade long relationship right before their over the top wedding. When his reasoning for calling it off is admitted, Zoe feels shaken and no longer trusts her judgment when it comes to men. But then comes Oscar. Oscar, the perfect boyfriend, the perfect man. Successful, wealthy, charming, and the chemistry is there. But is he too good to be true? Zoe turns to her BFF’s for help, Angela and Kevin, but turns out one of them is hiding a secret from Zoe that will send more shock waves through her dating life.
The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken by Mari Passananti is a book meant for the women. Zoe’s story is bound to touch you in some way, either making you think about your own life, what it is you really want, or giving you the confidence in being alone. I enjoyed watching Zoe’s transformation, from having to be part of a two-some, to thinking her life will only be complete once she finds the perfect man, to finally realizing that being alone is okay. Though the beginning started pretty slow for me, the ending really picked up when it came to what Oscar was hiding. The foreshadowing in the story gave me a good idea as to what it was, but it was still gripping to read about. Overall, I enjoyed watching Zoe go through her journey, and The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken is recommended by me!
The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken by Mari Passananti is a book meant for the women. Zoe’s story is bound to touch you in some way, either making you think about your own life, what it is you really want, or giving you the confidence in being alone. I enjoyed watching Zoe’s transformation, from having to be part of a two-some, to thinking her life will only be complete once she finds the perfect man, to finally realizing that being alone is okay. Though the beginning started pretty slow for me, the ending really picked up when it came to what Oscar was hiding. The foreshadowing in the story gave me a good idea as to what it was, but it was still gripping to read about. Overall, I enjoyed watching Zoe go through her journey, and The Hazards of Hunting While Heartbroken is recommended by me!
November 5, 2015
The title caught my attention and the writing style held it. The story revolves around a young woman recovering from the humiliation of a canceled wedding after her fiance declares he is gay the evening before the big day. She gets on with her life with the help of her friends and an uninspiring job. One afternoon she receives flowers from a secret admirer who sees her through her office window. Suddenly, she finds herself being wooed by a handsome,wealthy man. She sees herself as nothing special and can hardly believe that he would be interested in her. Zoe is soon balancing a new relationship, the opinions of two best friends and a sadistic boss who she both fears and admires. The story takes an unusual turn when she begins to suspect that her dream man is not what he seems. At the same time, drama begins to unfold in the lives of her friends and relationships are tested. Zoe finds herself questioning her judgement about her past relationships, men and her decisions. The dialogue is clever, witty and well paced. Well put together.
February 11, 2012
It was a treat to read a 'woman's book --- I enjoyed the characters --the plot --the drama --the friendships ---life in New York --
Really 'fun' and engaging!
Zoe-Classy-brains and beauty (Princeton graduate--Head Hunter job)
Angela-A spitfire (best friends with Zoe)
Kevin- Every girl has had a 'Kevin' in their life (at least I hope so)--
Oscar-Handsome-wealthy--(I'll say no more) ---a little mystery?? (READ the BOOK to find out more!!!)
Marvin- He knows how to dress better than me ---that's for sure! A gay man who know what he wants from his lovers! lol
Carol- The type of Boss you've always dreamed of having.....lol
FUN BOOK!
I felt like I was part of 'the New York Zoe-Angela-Kevin-Oscar....etc. community! I even started to miss the days when I worked in New York!
Congrats, *Mari*! on your book! I'm glad I had a chance to read it!!!
Really 'fun' and engaging!
Zoe-Classy-brains and beauty (Princeton graduate--Head Hunter job)
Angela-A spitfire (best friends with Zoe)
Kevin- Every girl has had a 'Kevin' in their life (at least I hope so)--
Oscar-Handsome-wealthy--(I'll say no more) ---a little mystery?? (READ the BOOK to find out more!!!)
Marvin- He knows how to dress better than me ---that's for sure! A gay man who know what he wants from his lovers! lol
Carol- The type of Boss you've always dreamed of having.....lol
FUN BOOK!
I felt like I was part of 'the New York Zoe-Angela-Kevin-Oscar....etc. community! I even started to miss the days when I worked in New York!
Congrats, *Mari*! on your book! I'm glad I had a chance to read it!!!
May 28, 2013
To start off this was a kindle freebie and those go one of 2 ways! I wasn't sure what to expect from the awkward start. Zoe is whiney, co dependent and broke. She is constantly comparing herself to her friends, their wealth, status and jobs. She doesn't know how to assert herself in anything. She suddenly meets a very wealthy man who is "perfect" on paper and checks all the boxes. Zoe completely immerses herself in all things Oscar. It's frustrating as a reader to see her doing everything her inner voice is saying not too. 85 % in a bomb drops and suddenly Zoe turns into this smart savvy women with common sense.It's too little to take this character serious.
I am glad this was a freebie. The ending was predictible and mid way through you know whats going to happen!
I am glad this was a freebie. The ending was predictible and mid way through you know whats going to happen!
May 12, 2014
I was in the mood for something light, entertaining, and different from the heavy novels I've been reading. Although I'm put off by the notion of "chick lit", this book was great fun. It's humorous, smoothly written, with characters who are fleshed out but are not suffering from life-ruining events--perhaps you know what I mean. Passananti delivers a good story, with enough tension to make me turn pages quickly, and a satisfying ending. Recommended as a great beach or airplane read, and I do think that's a compliment!
May 29, 2013
I could not find this book on Goodreads. I had to manually add this book. I wasn't quite sure about this, since I didn't find any reviews. As you can see it took me one day to read it! It was GREAT! I loved the story, it is a romance, with some suspense in it, it kept my attention and I loved the main character, Zoe. She had it bad for a man that admired her from across the street in another office. She fell hard, but knew something was a miss. Her best friend Angela and Kevin, are great too.
July 31, 2014
This was my first book by Mari Passananti and overall it was pretty solid. The storyline was great and well written. The ending of the book could have been better....it just stopped. In my opinion the ending needed an epilogue or at least another chapter rounding out the storyline. The characters were great and well developed. All in all a pretty great book and I definitely look forward to more books by Mari!!
February 23, 2012
I can usually tell by the cover and title if I'm going to like a book. With this one, not so much. The title and cover didn't appeal to me, but when I read the preview provided by Pixel of Ink, I thought I would give it a try. I was NOT disappointed. This book had me hooked from the very beginning and I read it in one day. I would definitely recommend it :)
February 3, 2012
I really liked this book. Kinda girlish of course and would make a great chick flick - but I really liked the book. The writing kept me interested, the story was a great 'lay in your PJ's and read' story and I really liked the twists and turns.
January 8, 2013
Cute book, well written and it kept my interest. It was a cross between The Devil Wears Prada and 50 Shades of Gray. I liked the NYC social scene and the romance was fun without being too graphic. Look forward to her next book.
June 12, 2013
This was a pretty inexpensive kindle book (under $5), and for what I paid it was a decent read. It is an easy summer beach book, but definitely not for teen readers. I got caught up in the characters and peeked ahead because I became so worried about them!!
February 14, 2012
Review to come...
April 19, 2020
Enjoyable brain candy
Not a huge fan of chick lit but this was light and easy read. Perfect for beach or pool this summer.
Not a huge fan of chick lit but this was light and easy read. Perfect for beach or pool this summer.
May 11, 2014
Great book!
Surprising ending but a great read. A story about a woman who realizes that standing on her own and not always relying on a man is a good thing!
Surprising ending but a great read. A story about a woman who realizes that standing on her own and not always relying on a man is a good thing!
October 15, 2014
Great read! I feel bad for Zoë but I have to commend her for her strength to go through her ordeals. We ladies could learn a thing or two from her :)
January 1, 2022
My New Year’s resolution is to read at least 12 kindle books that I’ve had downloaded for years…
Kindle Book: 1/12
Originally added to my to read pile: 05/2013
I describe this as political thriller merged with chick-lit. The story was about a New Yorker trying to get over her failed engagement and start dating again. It then also had the interesting involvement of law and politics thrown in to make a mystery/thriller, to give the story an interesting edge.
Personally, this jumped between 4, 3 & 2 stars frequently. I also think some of the comments about sexuality haven’t aged well and seem very narrow minded.
Kindle Book: 1/12
Originally added to my to read pile: 05/2013
I describe this as political thriller merged with chick-lit. The story was about a New Yorker trying to get over her failed engagement and start dating again. It then also had the interesting involvement of law and politics thrown in to make a mystery/thriller, to give the story an interesting edge.
Personally, this jumped between 4, 3 & 2 stars frequently. I also think some of the comments about sexuality haven’t aged well and seem very narrow minded.
February 23, 2018
Entertaining
Nice read, very sweet ending. I really enjoyed this book, going along for the ride as the main character figures out her relationship issues and career.
Nice read, very sweet ending. I really enjoyed this book, going along for the ride as the main character figures out her relationship issues and career.
November 30, 2021
While I am no stranger to a good romance novel, I must admit that Passananti's Hazards of Hunting while Heartbroken threw me for a loop. The thing is, I misread the blurb or misunderstood it at the time I came across the novel. The book blurb references a New York City headhunter and a loose reference to the plotline. When I finally started reading it two weeks later all hope was lost for me. Too much time had passed for me to have any chance at detail oriented factual remembering.. In rereading the blurb after the fact I have NO IDEA WHAT I WAS THINKING.. I am laughing at myself, not with myself ;)
My brain instantly made the misguided leaps as follow:
1) I remember this book was about a Female Headhunter.. That is super strange for a protagonist profession. I wonder how many references to Dog the bounty hunter will be slopped into this.
2) love story with a head hunter? Wtf? This will be just strange enough to justify the reading.
3) What a strange cover. I suppose a NYC female head hunter would try to be very well dressed, especially if she is Manhatten based.
As you can see, I made my first wrong turn immediately and was oblivious to all reality.
This is a novel about a Corporate Headhunter, helping place highly skilled people with primo jobs in a rough market... She falls in love while still trying to get over her recently torpedoed engagement after she learned her fiance is gay. The man she starts dating seems too good to be true, and as we have learned in post year 2000 Disney America, it is ok for prince charming to have flaws.
Imagine my surprise when I found myself embroiled not with an action filled seedy detective style plotline, but instead a white collar office environment filled with angry bosses and trips to the opera.
Sigh, I did it to myself. Good thing I really loved the book.
Cover to cover read found this book to be well written and highly enjoyable. The twists were not terribly surprising, but it is a love story, so it is appropriate. I could have done with fewer angsty teenage emotional responses from the 30+ age group characters, but besides that, this was a damn fine novel.
I know i know. What the hell kind of review is this. Why should others pick this up..
Simple answer?
Because I was dead wrong.. It is a very good book that does not need a justification for reading as, no surprise to other readers, it is not about Dog the Bounty Hunter. Except for main character Zoe, As far as I can tell the other characters are too 'well to do' even to reference Dog at a drunken socialite party. Zoe however, I am sure she has binge watched a few episodes while drips of Ben and Jerry's congeal on her rumpled sweat pants.
Hope you enjoy it as much as I did ;)
My brain instantly made the misguided leaps as follow:
1) I remember this book was about a Female Headhunter.. That is super strange for a protagonist profession. I wonder how many references to Dog the bounty hunter will be slopped into this.
2) love story with a head hunter? Wtf? This will be just strange enough to justify the reading.
3) What a strange cover. I suppose a NYC female head hunter would try to be very well dressed, especially if she is Manhatten based.
As you can see, I made my first wrong turn immediately and was oblivious to all reality.
This is a novel about a Corporate Headhunter, helping place highly skilled people with primo jobs in a rough market... She falls in love while still trying to get over her recently torpedoed engagement after she learned her fiance is gay. The man she starts dating seems too good to be true, and as we have learned in post year 2000 Disney America, it is ok for prince charming to have flaws.
Imagine my surprise when I found myself embroiled not with an action filled seedy detective style plotline, but instead a white collar office environment filled with angry bosses and trips to the opera.
Sigh, I did it to myself. Good thing I really loved the book.
Cover to cover read found this book to be well written and highly enjoyable. The twists were not terribly surprising, but it is a love story, so it is appropriate. I could have done with fewer angsty teenage emotional responses from the 30+ age group characters, but besides that, this was a damn fine novel.
I know i know. What the hell kind of review is this. Why should others pick this up..
Simple answer?
Because I was dead wrong.. It is a very good book that does not need a justification for reading as, no surprise to other readers, it is not about Dog the Bounty Hunter. Except for main character Zoe, As far as I can tell the other characters are too 'well to do' even to reference Dog at a drunken socialite party. Zoe however, I am sure she has binge watched a few episodes while drips of Ben and Jerry's congeal on her rumpled sweat pants.
Hope you enjoy it as much as I did ;)
Read
June 1, 2012I have decided that I cannot rate this story. And by that I mean I can't decide on how I feel overall. Generally I don't really read chick lit myself and this definitely qualifies. I think the genre mismatch for me is the major underpinning to my hesitations. That being said, I think those who enjoy chick lit may like it a lot. One warning though is that this is not YA. The protagonist is in her early thirties and there is a good bit of sex, though it's not overly graphic IMHO.
I liked the main character though her cluelessness about men seems to be excessive. Then again she really only was with one man for a loooooong time so she's not very experienced for her age.
What I LOVED was the vivid and hilarious characterizations of the other New Yorkers in her life...including her boss, coworkers, and best friends. The story is VERY "New York young professional" and that aspect is fantastic. It's like the "'B in Apt 23" but without a true "B" besides Zoe's boss. I also thought the sex was sexy. Satisfying without being 50 shades or even close. It was also well and entertainingly written.
But I had some issues that again, feel like more of an objection to chick lit in the end, so they may not deter others. (SPOILER ALERT - dont read if u don't want to know). I guess it is mostly the female empowerment "I don't need a man" moral of the story in the end. Maybe it is because I grew up w a feminist mother or bc I went to a women's college for four years, but I kind of gag on this message personally. A.) Already know that I don't need a man to be a whole functional human and B.) See A. I actually do not mean this harshly, it's just very old news for me...this message. So when it all wrapped up into that moral of the story I kind of sighed. And I wasn't really sure how I felt about the eventual glorification of Zoe's boss Carol. Despite understanding her and respecting her more once you know her story, she is a miserable excuse for a human being and no one to emulate.
All in all I think there were some common themes (work vs family. Relationships vs. independence) that just for me personally, are old territory. BUT the book is funny and fun and mostly a quick read. If you love chick lit and or you love stories set in NYC, I bet you will love this one.
I liked the main character though her cluelessness about men seems to be excessive. Then again she really only was with one man for a loooooong time so she's not very experienced for her age.
What I LOVED was the vivid and hilarious characterizations of the other New Yorkers in her life...including her boss, coworkers, and best friends. The story is VERY "New York young professional" and that aspect is fantastic. It's like the "'B in Apt 23" but without a true "B" besides Zoe's boss. I also thought the sex was sexy. Satisfying without being 50 shades or even close. It was also well and entertainingly written.
But I had some issues that again, feel like more of an objection to chick lit in the end, so they may not deter others. (SPOILER ALERT - dont read if u don't want to know). I guess it is mostly the female empowerment "I don't need a man" moral of the story in the end. Maybe it is because I grew up w a feminist mother or bc I went to a women's college for four years, but I kind of gag on this message personally. A.) Already know that I don't need a man to be a whole functional human and B.) See A. I actually do not mean this harshly, it's just very old news for me...this message. So when it all wrapped up into that moral of the story I kind of sighed. And I wasn't really sure how I felt about the eventual glorification of Zoe's boss Carol. Despite understanding her and respecting her more once you know her story, she is a miserable excuse for a human being and no one to emulate.
All in all I think there were some common themes (work vs family. Relationships vs. independence) that just for me personally, are old territory. BUT the book is funny and fun and mostly a quick read. If you love chick lit and or you love stories set in NYC, I bet you will love this one.
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