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A Girl Like You
What if you found out you were the ugly friend?
Emma Frazier is smart, hardworking, and loves her job as a journalist for a Florida lifestyle magazine. Emma knows she’s no great beauty, but she’s pretty certain she has a shot with her handsome new boss, Ben Gallagher—until Emma overhears a mutual acquaintance refer to her as the “ugly friend.” In an effort to reclaim her battered self-esteem, Emma decides to impress Ben at work by promising an exclusive interview with NASCAR legend, Trip Monroe.
Emma and Trip went to high school together and although it’s been fourteen years since they’ve spoken, Emma is certain she can score an interview with the elusive super star. But connecting with Trip turns out to be harder than Emma imagined. Her quest for the interview leads her back to her tiny hometown of Catfish Cove, where old secrets and a new romantic interest shake up Emma’s views on life and teach her that maybe the key to finding true love is as simple as accepting yourself for the person you were always meant to be.
Emma Frazier is smart, hardworking, and loves her job as a journalist for a Florida lifestyle magazine. Emma knows she’s no great beauty, but she’s pretty certain she has a shot with her handsome new boss, Ben Gallagher—until Emma overhears a mutual acquaintance refer to her as the “ugly friend.” In an effort to reclaim her battered self-esteem, Emma decides to impress Ben at work by promising an exclusive interview with NASCAR legend, Trip Monroe.
Emma and Trip went to high school together and although it’s been fourteen years since they’ve spoken, Emma is certain she can score an interview with the elusive super star. But connecting with Trip turns out to be harder than Emma imagined. Her quest for the interview leads her back to her tiny hometown of Catfish Cove, where old secrets and a new romantic interest shake up Emma’s views on life and teach her that maybe the key to finding true love is as simple as accepting yourself for the person you were always meant to be.
308 pages, Paperback
First published August 7, 2012
8 people are currently reading
1291 people want to read
About the author
Maria Geraci
33 books469 followersMaria Geraci writes feel-good small-town contemporary romance. She’s a two-time RITA® Finalist and a finalist in the National Readers’ Choice Awards and Romantic Times’ American Title Contest. Her stories feature strong women, dreamy heroes, lots of laughs, and a little bit of heat. Born in Cuba, she was raised on Florida’s Space Coast. She and her husband of thirty-plus years (along with their four dogs) are thrilled to call central Florida home again. She loves hearing from readers. You can write to her at maria@mariageraci.com
Maria also writes cozy mysteries as her alter ego Maggie March.
Maria also writes cozy mysteries as her alter ego Maggie March.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
January 17, 2019
The plot is all over the place, the ending abrupt and the heroine is wishy washy which annoyed me to no end.
August 26, 2013
First off, I really don't understand all the 5-star reviews. Makes me wonder what else people are comparing this book to!!
Anyway.....My first thought on this book is, WOW, this is one "ugly friend" I would like to be. She has more guys falling over her and pining for her than Jennifer Aniston. Geez!
This book was mildly entertaining. However as another reviewer stated, it was all over the place. Story-lines stopped and started up again so randomly. I think the author used the phrase, "remember how I told you about...." or "so you remember I mentioned...." I wanted to scream, "JUST FINISH AN ENTIRE THOUGHT ALL AT ONCE!" Don't mention something in chapter 1 and then bring it back up in chapter 15, and then elaborate on it chapter 18. It makes things WAY too confusing! Just get to the point already.
SPOILERS!
Not to mention that this book was SO predictable! You knew she was going to end up with Richard and it was incredibly obvious Nick was only interested in a "safe bet." You could see that coming the moment you heard about his divorce.
In a few words, this book was predictable, boring, and unrealistic. No really worth the time.
Anyway.....My first thought on this book is, WOW, this is one "ugly friend" I would like to be. She has more guys falling over her and pining for her than Jennifer Aniston. Geez!
This book was mildly entertaining. However as another reviewer stated, it was all over the place. Story-lines stopped and started up again so randomly. I think the author used the phrase, "remember how I told you about...." or "so you remember I mentioned...." I wanted to scream, "JUST FINISH AN ENTIRE THOUGHT ALL AT ONCE!" Don't mention something in chapter 1 and then bring it back up in chapter 15, and then elaborate on it chapter 18. It makes things WAY too confusing! Just get to the point already.
SPOILERS!
Not to mention that this book was SO predictable! You knew she was going to end up with Richard and it was incredibly obvious Nick was only interested in a "safe bet." You could see that coming the moment you heard about his divorce.
In a few words, this book was predictable, boring, and unrealistic. No really worth the time.
March 4, 2013
Let me tell you about this book...it could use a lot less narration that starts with "let me tell you about...". So I kinda both loved and hated Emma as a narrator. Sometimes I was totally on her side and rooting for her and then other times I just wanted to smack her for going off on slightly inane tangents (or for starting to veer off on tangents and then deciding not to talk about that little thing she mentioned after all. Tease! And not really in a good way). But on the whole I liked this book. It was at times a bit predictable, but I liked Emma's quirkiness and cheerfulness (when she's not being self-concious) and I liked the way things worked out, even if I think she might have glossed over the awkwardness that would normally ensue from what happened in the end with two of the characters (won't give spoilers). It wasn't my favourite book ever, but it was a cute, fun, easy-to-read chick-lit that I ended up enjoying once it finally concluded. I think it could have benefited from some editing but all in all it was enjoyable.
August 11, 2012
More than just a beach read. This latest chicklit release by Maria Geraci is a delightful book. Written in the first person, the heroine comes to age amidst a cast of quirky friends and coworkers. Her rural hometown characters and a loving but nontraditional family come along for the ride. If you know you are not perfect, how can you find your perfect man? Read this book and find out. "Homerun" for Maria Geraci!
August 26, 2021
It's a different kind of romance/chick lit...the boring kind.
January 15, 2013
Emma Frazier works for Florida!, a lifestyle magazine. She has a crush on her boss, Ben Gallagher. When she is out at a local bar someone refers to her as the “ugly friend.” At that point she decides she can impress her boss and co-workers by getting the interview of a life time with Nascar driver, Trip Monroe.
The only problem is Trip does not do interviews. Emma hopes she can lay the we went to school together card and get the coveted interview. Starting by going back to their hometown, Catfish Cove, where she learns of secrets and meets another classmate and a romance starts. Will Emma get her interview? Can she overcome the “ugly friend” comment?
A Girl Like You is witty and fun. From the very beginning I was sucked right in and read the whole book in almost one sitting. I really liked that Emma referred to her moms throughout the book and it was dealt with, but not made a HUGE deal. Usually I don’t enjoy the first person point of view, liking to know all the characters in the story, but this time it was great. Emma told her story and kept it all real.
Emma is so lovable. She is real. She is a normal size, with normal friends, and normal insecurities. Her crush on her boss, who leads her on without starting a relationship, makes me chuckle. I feel like Emma truly knows herself. She knows deep down that she is not that “ugly friend”, but sometimes hearing it you just have to work through it. As she works through it she discovers more and more about herself and makes herself stronger and more self esteemed.
I kept thinking I knew how this would end, but was very pleasantly surprised with how the story actually ended. If you are looking for an easy fun read check this out.
The only problem is Trip does not do interviews. Emma hopes she can lay the we went to school together card and get the coveted interview. Starting by going back to their hometown, Catfish Cove, where she learns of secrets and meets another classmate and a romance starts. Will Emma get her interview? Can she overcome the “ugly friend” comment?
A Girl Like You is witty and fun. From the very beginning I was sucked right in and read the whole book in almost one sitting. I really liked that Emma referred to her moms throughout the book and it was dealt with, but not made a HUGE deal. Usually I don’t enjoy the first person point of view, liking to know all the characters in the story, but this time it was great. Emma told her story and kept it all real.
Emma is so lovable. She is real. She is a normal size, with normal friends, and normal insecurities. Her crush on her boss, who leads her on without starting a relationship, makes me chuckle. I feel like Emma truly knows herself. She knows deep down that she is not that “ugly friend”, but sometimes hearing it you just have to work through it. As she works through it she discovers more and more about herself and makes herself stronger and more self esteemed.
I kept thinking I knew how this would end, but was very pleasantly surprised with how the story actually ended. If you are looking for an easy fun read check this out.
July 22, 2012
I received this book through goodreads first reads and boy was I wrong about this book. I read the back of it and I convinced myself that I already knew how it was going to end, that Emma would fall madly in love with Trip. But I'm glad it didn't work out that way. When I first started reading this I was hoping Emma would get a chance to be with Ben ( I mean who wouldn't love a guy would save a cat) but anyway when I thought like all the other characters that he ended up with Amy I hated him and I was so happy she had ran into Nick. For awhile I thought that's who she would stay with and It took me for a surprise when she dumped him. Richard was the last guy I thought would the one for her but going back over everything I read I realize he's perfect for her and there back and forth joking they had at the office made it even sweeter and him ending up with the cat was just the cherry on top! This is one of the best and unpredictable romance books I've read in awhile!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2013
What fun sweet read. Emma is someone most of us can relate to. I can remember all to vividly moments like Emma's. But Emma never gives up on herself. He she has meltdowns, she may eat out of a tub of ice cream when upset (if you claim to have never eaten ice cream straight of the carton at least once I call shenanigans) but she finds her way. She wants her dream and she doesn't want to settle. Sometimes we see what we want to see and hold on when we should let go. And sometimes we just need to open our eyes and realize what we have in front of us.
Just an all around enjoyable read.
Just an all around enjoyable read.
July 14, 2013
I wish Richard and her relationship was built up more. From my perspective, he seemed like the office creep and then all the sudden he's the one? But I liked that she did not settle with a man just because.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2012
The most enjoyable Chick Lit I've read in a long time! You can read my full review here.
December 30, 2016
I am a sucker for chick lit book This was a fun story with a smart likable main character. I was very glad who she ended up with at the end. Makes for a great weekend read.
March 26, 2017
So here's my thoughts in a nutshell. A Girl Like You was basically like, all over the place.
Early on I thought this was going to be one of those cute, chick lit novels where you root for the ugly duckling underdog. This is because within the first few chapters we meet Emma Frazier- a self proclaimed "5, 7 on a good day". We see how she sizes herself up amongst her friends and then witnesses her one "friend" size her up as the "ugly friend". BURN. We also quickly learn she's pining for her "out of her league" boss, Ben.
But then things take a turn.
Suddenly the novel changes focus. See, Emma works for a magazine that needs a scoop badly. So she decides to fudge her connection to a now famous NASCAR driver, Trip Monroe and land a big story (and hopefully impress her swoon worthy boss in the process). So she goes back to her hometown of Catfish Cove to seek him out, only to stumble upon one road block after another. At this point I'm thinking this book is actually morphing into a mystery-or a drawn out set up that will eventually pair her with Trip- when Nick enters the picture.
See Nick is another guy Emma knows from high school. And remember the girl I mentioned who was introduced a few chapters back? You know the really UGLY one?? Well Nick is basically described as the all around perfect guy and yet, he's instantly smitten with little old Emma. It's lightly touched upon that Emma is out of Nick's league throughout the novel, but the "ugly friend vibe" is all but abandoned as she navigates her feelings for her beautiful boss, Ben and her gorgeous boyfriend, Nick. What's a girl to do?
But Emma is the "ugly" one. Keep reminding yourself that. I know I had to.
Somewhere in the midst of the broad, chick lit strokes and the who is Trip Monroe, really? mystery we get to meet Emma's friends and co-workers. You might not think this part of the novel is important. Don't worry, I didn't either. But there is this one co-worker Richard who loves to rib on Emma an awful lot. But he just sees her as a kid sister, right?
The weird thing about A Girl Like You given all of this, is that it's actually not predictable. This is not a compliment. While I know at its core this is yet another novel about a woman who doesn't need a man (but spends her entire time worrying about impressing a man and pleasing others in general), I digress. See What A Girl Like You is lacking is continuity. There were just too many men entered into Emma's life that quite honestly, I didn't know who she was "supposed to" end up with for the longest time. That's because for each part of the novel that was devoted to that particular guy, the writing made it seem like that guy was THE ONE. Then, out of the blue in the last few chapters is where you really see the writing on the wall, so to speak. Maybe this would be more obvious if this was a movie or TV show, but the writing really lacked the details to pull off my investment into a happy ending for any of the said couples truthfully.
One other comment is on the writing itself. I don't know if it was meant to be the author's signature move or not, but the odd usage of the term "Let me tell you about..." throughout the book REALLY began to grate on my nerves. The words "let me tell you about..." show up not once, not twice, but ELEVEN TIMES THROUGHOUT THE NOVEL (thanks ipad search!)
Perhaps if Geraci had spent more time devoting such detail to the character development and less time honing the usage of that phrase, A Girl Like You would have been more likable.
Early on I thought this was going to be one of those cute, chick lit novels where you root for the ugly duckling underdog. This is because within the first few chapters we meet Emma Frazier- a self proclaimed "5, 7 on a good day". We see how she sizes herself up amongst her friends and then witnesses her one "friend" size her up as the "ugly friend". BURN. We also quickly learn she's pining for her "out of her league" boss, Ben.
But then things take a turn.
Suddenly the novel changes focus. See, Emma works for a magazine that needs a scoop badly. So she decides to fudge her connection to a now famous NASCAR driver, Trip Monroe and land a big story (and hopefully impress her swoon worthy boss in the process). So she goes back to her hometown of Catfish Cove to seek him out, only to stumble upon one road block after another. At this point I'm thinking this book is actually morphing into a mystery-or a drawn out set up that will eventually pair her with Trip- when Nick enters the picture.
See Nick is another guy Emma knows from high school. And remember the girl I mentioned who was introduced a few chapters back? You know the really UGLY one?? Well Nick is basically described as the all around perfect guy and yet, he's instantly smitten with little old Emma. It's lightly touched upon that Emma is out of Nick's league throughout the novel, but the "ugly friend vibe" is all but abandoned as she navigates her feelings for her beautiful boss, Ben and her gorgeous boyfriend, Nick. What's a girl to do?
But Emma is the "ugly" one. Keep reminding yourself that. I know I had to.
Somewhere in the midst of the broad, chick lit strokes and the who is Trip Monroe, really? mystery we get to meet Emma's friends and co-workers. You might not think this part of the novel is important. Don't worry, I didn't either. But there is this one co-worker Richard who loves to rib on Emma an awful lot. But he just sees her as a kid sister, right?
The weird thing about A Girl Like You given all of this, is that it's actually not predictable. This is not a compliment. While I know at its core this is yet another novel about a woman who doesn't need a man (but spends her entire time worrying about impressing a man and pleasing others in general), I digress. See What A Girl Like You is lacking is continuity. There were just too many men entered into Emma's life that quite honestly, I didn't know who she was "supposed to" end up with for the longest time. That's because for each part of the novel that was devoted to that particular guy, the writing made it seem like that guy was THE ONE. Then, out of the blue in the last few chapters is where you really see the writing on the wall, so to speak. Maybe this would be more obvious if this was a movie or TV show, but the writing really lacked the details to pull off my investment into a happy ending for any of the said couples truthfully.
One other comment is on the writing itself. I don't know if it was meant to be the author's signature move or not, but the odd usage of the term "Let me tell you about..." throughout the book REALLY began to grate on my nerves. The words "let me tell you about..." show up not once, not twice, but ELEVEN TIMES THROUGHOUT THE NOVEL (thanks ipad search!)
Perhaps if Geraci had spent more time devoting such detail to the character development and less time honing the usage of that phrase, A Girl Like You would have been more likable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2019
I badly wanted to like it but there were a lot if things wrong in this novel. It's pretty lighthearted novel and easy to read. I'm quite disappointed because I have held on to this novel for so long. The only upside for me is I get to remove this to my "to read"
---- spoilers ----
1. So much emphasis on weight and not doing anything about it. I don't get what's the point of mentioning it so many times.
2. Every single one the heroine knows it just too beautiful to comprehend. It gets boring to a point.
3. Everyone's character feels like just an extension of the heroine's character. There's no contrast.
4. You don't really get to know the love interest that much. Sadly, this was not explored very well.
---- spoilers ----
1. So much emphasis on weight and not doing anything about it. I don't get what's the point of mentioning it so many times.
2. Every single one the heroine knows it just too beautiful to comprehend. It gets boring to a point.
3. Everyone's character feels like just an extension of the heroine's character. There's no contrast.
4. You don't really get to know the love interest that much. Sadly, this was not explored very well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2017
'Are you sure you know what you're doing?' That is what Emma says to Amy at one point in the story. It is also what Jason says to Emma at another point. A sweet romance with many ups and downs . One message is you don't have to settle when it comes to love. You deserve the butterflies and fireworks. I really enjoyed this story and was sad to see it end.
September 7, 2012
Review originally posted at Book Cover Justice
Every once in a while, a book comes along that completely surprises you. While you know it is probably going to be a good read, it turns out to be so much more. The last time this happened to me was last year when I read Domestic Violets by Matthew Norman, I don't get surprised easily. But A Girl Like You totally caught me off guard.
Emma Frazier is smart, funny and has that self-deprecating humor that I find in myself. Even though she is not "big" by normal standards (size 10/12 is average, as in healthy), she still feels out of shape next to her beautiful, size two friends. She knows she isn't as stunning as them, but when she over hears one call her "the ugly friend", the little ounce of remaining self esteem goes out the window. I remember having a conversation with someone a year or so ago, and they said to me "When I was the fat funny one..." which really made me angry. Yes, I am a big girl. But does that make me any less important or diminish my worth? Of course not. I kept thinking about this when reading Emma's story. I liked her right away, and some part of me felt like I actually knew this girl. We had a lot in common: low self esteem, big dreams and we both use humor as a self defense mechanism. I know her kind, I am her kind.
Emma has a serious crush on her new boss, Ben, and sometimes she thinks she might actually have a chance with him. But that is another one of Emma's traits, she over-analyzes everything. She can't help but look at things from every possible angle, never satisfied to just let it be what it is. This is what causes her to try and impress Ben with the exclusive interview with her old high school classmate, Trip Monroe. Only getting that interview is a lot harder than she realized it would be. This leads her back to her home town of Catfish Cover, Florida where she runs into her old high school crush. Nick Alfonso is that boy. You know the one. The one so dreamy and out of your league that you spend weeks, months, and sometimes even years pining for. Nick is recently divorced from his high school sweetheart and he and Emma immediately click. She can't believe that she is finally getting her chance after all of these years and is still holding onto one horribly embarrassing memory of their first dance. When it comes out that Emma is now in a relationship, people start to see her in a new way. Or maybe it is Emma that is finally starting to see things the way they have been all along.
Emma is not the only lovable character in this story though. She is surrounded by well developed, in depth friends and coworkers that keep you on laughing. Especially Richard, Emma's somewhat of a pervert coworker who loves to taunt Emma and keep her day full of sexual innuendos.
Besides the fantastic characters, the author's writing style really just dragged me straight into the story from the first page. You don't feel like you are reading a book. It feels more like you are hanging out with this girl (Emma) that you just recently met and she is telling you all about her life. You just want her to keep going and tell you everything because her story is not only funny, but she has an exceptional way of sharing it with you. This makes A Girl Like You a breeze to read through and I'll admit that I was pretty bummed that it had to end. Once again I was left wishing that I knew these people in real life and could somehow make my way into their group.
Overall, A Girl Like You is a remarkable read. Emma Frazier is a genuine heroine with nothing but warmth, charm and one hell of a sense of humor. I recommend A Girl Like You to everyone, no matter what your choice of genre is. Whether you are a long time fan of Chick Lit or you are just in the mood for something fun and quick paced.
I also recommend this book to any girl who has ever felt out of place, uncomfortable in her own skin, or who had an undying love for that one boy who just never noticed that you existed. I know I've been there. Get your hands on a copy of this book ASAP and follow Emma along as she gets her second chance with that one boy, ultimately getting a second chance with herself as well.
Every once in a while, a book comes along that completely surprises you. While you know it is probably going to be a good read, it turns out to be so much more. The last time this happened to me was last year when I read Domestic Violets by Matthew Norman, I don't get surprised easily. But A Girl Like You totally caught me off guard.
Emma Frazier is smart, funny and has that self-deprecating humor that I find in myself. Even though she is not "big" by normal standards (size 10/12 is average, as in healthy), she still feels out of shape next to her beautiful, size two friends. She knows she isn't as stunning as them, but when she over hears one call her "the ugly friend", the little ounce of remaining self esteem goes out the window. I remember having a conversation with someone a year or so ago, and they said to me "When I was the fat funny one..." which really made me angry. Yes, I am a big girl. But does that make me any less important or diminish my worth? Of course not. I kept thinking about this when reading Emma's story. I liked her right away, and some part of me felt like I actually knew this girl. We had a lot in common: low self esteem, big dreams and we both use humor as a self defense mechanism. I know her kind, I am her kind.
Emma has a serious crush on her new boss, Ben, and sometimes she thinks she might actually have a chance with him. But that is another one of Emma's traits, she over-analyzes everything. She can't help but look at things from every possible angle, never satisfied to just let it be what it is. This is what causes her to try and impress Ben with the exclusive interview with her old high school classmate, Trip Monroe. Only getting that interview is a lot harder than she realized it would be. This leads her back to her home town of Catfish Cover, Florida where she runs into her old high school crush. Nick Alfonso is that boy. You know the one. The one so dreamy and out of your league that you spend weeks, months, and sometimes even years pining for. Nick is recently divorced from his high school sweetheart and he and Emma immediately click. She can't believe that she is finally getting her chance after all of these years and is still holding onto one horribly embarrassing memory of their first dance. When it comes out that Emma is now in a relationship, people start to see her in a new way. Or maybe it is Emma that is finally starting to see things the way they have been all along.
Emma is not the only lovable character in this story though. She is surrounded by well developed, in depth friends and coworkers that keep you on laughing. Especially Richard, Emma's somewhat of a pervert coworker who loves to taunt Emma and keep her day full of sexual innuendos.
Besides the fantastic characters, the author's writing style really just dragged me straight into the story from the first page. You don't feel like you are reading a book. It feels more like you are hanging out with this girl (Emma) that you just recently met and she is telling you all about her life. You just want her to keep going and tell you everything because her story is not only funny, but she has an exceptional way of sharing it with you. This makes A Girl Like You a breeze to read through and I'll admit that I was pretty bummed that it had to end. Once again I was left wishing that I knew these people in real life and could somehow make my way into their group.
Overall, A Girl Like You is a remarkable read. Emma Frazier is a genuine heroine with nothing but warmth, charm and one hell of a sense of humor. I recommend A Girl Like You to everyone, no matter what your choice of genre is. Whether you are a long time fan of Chick Lit or you are just in the mood for something fun and quick paced.
I also recommend this book to any girl who has ever felt out of place, uncomfortable in her own skin, or who had an undying love for that one boy who just never noticed that you existed. I know I've been there. Get your hands on a copy of this book ASAP and follow Emma along as she gets her second chance with that one boy, ultimately getting a second chance with herself as well.
August 31, 2023
Written about a fictional small town near Tallahassee on a lake. Alicia Miles advised her in the book probably about having 2 lesbian Moms and it rang true. The author Maria Geraci lived in Tallahassee and worked with Alicia in labor and delivery.
What kind of Mom sandwich are you? “ to Mami who loves me no matter what kind of sandwich I am.”
It’s about acceptance, friendship and true living relationship.
37 north Florida Monster truck rally for Jesus
41 Despite this being a politically conservative town , no one other than a few dumb rednecks ever give my moms a hard time anymore.They might be lesbian, but they are “our lesbians,” if you know what I mean.
cow chip bingo?! Field marked like a large bingo
Card and is marked by where the cows “do their business “.
76-78 Nick Catfish Cove police officer tells story about stopping a woman driving under the influence only to find after chasing her as she stripped she was actually male. He had gone to a “tranny” night club in Tallahassee dressed in drag and didn’t want his family to know hence the striptease. When Nick gave the now naked man clothes from Nick’s gym bag, the man thanked Nick even as he was being arrested for DUI.
I wonder if this refers to Club Park Ave?
98 Emma’s biological Mom won MomJ’s heart after giving her a copy of Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass. When President Clinton gave Monica a copy after giving it to giving to to Hilary when they were dating, her Moms decided they would have left him.
99 Emma’s live/ guilt relationship
With her ereader. She loves the book smell “ crisp and clean, slightly inky, laced with love “ , but also loves the “instant gratification” of an ereader. “ The thing is , though while my ereader is awesome, it doesn’t quench my thrust to flip a page, or run a finger down smooth paper or stick my nose in the boo’s spine and inhale. I read somewhere that one of those famous perfume designers has created a new fragrance that smells, like books.
101: children’s books: Goodnight Moon, BeatrixPotter, on the night you were born and Guess how much I Love You ( a book she fantasized about reading to her own baby one day)
116 Yeats poetry about love
When You Are Old
BY WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS
When you are old and grey and full of sleep,
And nodding by the fire, take down this book,
And slowly read, and dream of the soft look
Your eyes had once, and of their shadows deep;
How many loved your moments of glad grace,
And loved your beauty with love false or true,
But one man loved the pilgrim soul in you,
And loved the sorrows of your changing face;
And bending down beside the glowing bars,
Murmur, a little sadly, how Love fled
And paced upon the mountains overhead
And hid his face amid a crowd of stars.
296 We all [deserve fireworks and trust and respect]. Nick just doesn’t think it’s possible and maybe it’s not possible for everyone, but I think I’d rather be alone than not have it.
Not everyone settles.
Mom didn't. And I don't plan to either.
I turn to our senior-class pictures and find Trip's photo. Beneath his somber face is his full name, Thomas Alexander Monroe. I read his senior quote and smile. Trip quoted Dr. Seuss: Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.
I look back and think about how much Trip and I had in common. We were both outsiders, both different, and both desperately trying to fit in. In some ways we still have a lot in com-mon. Just like Trip, I'm still trying to be someone I'm not.
The fact is I'm not Parisian. Strange things pop into my head at the weirdest times (and I'm okay with that). I'm an ordinary girl from Catfish Cove, Florida, who was raised by untraditional parents. Sometimes I speak with a twang. I'm twenty (okay, maybe twenty-five) pounds overweight, and to be honest, unless something really drastic happens, I don't think I'll be losing any of that extra poundage soon. My favorite author is Jane Austen and my favorite movie is Little Women (the version with Winona Ryder).
Oh, and I suck at moderation. Yes, I am different.
But then, isn't everyone?
What kind of Mom sandwich are you? “ to Mami who loves me no matter what kind of sandwich I am.”
It’s about acceptance, friendship and true living relationship.
37 north Florida Monster truck rally for Jesus
41 Despite this being a politically conservative town , no one other than a few dumb rednecks ever give my moms a hard time anymore.They might be lesbian, but they are “our lesbians,” if you know what I mean.
cow chip bingo?! Field marked like a large bingo
Card and is marked by where the cows “do their business “.
76-78 Nick Catfish Cove police officer tells story about stopping a woman driving under the influence only to find after chasing her as she stripped she was actually male. He had gone to a “tranny” night club in Tallahassee dressed in drag and didn’t want his family to know hence the striptease. When Nick gave the now naked man clothes from Nick’s gym bag, the man thanked Nick even as he was being arrested for DUI.
I wonder if this refers to Club Park Ave?
98 Emma’s biological Mom won MomJ’s heart after giving her a copy of Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass. When President Clinton gave Monica a copy after giving it to giving to to Hilary when they were dating, her Moms decided they would have left him.
99 Emma’s live/ guilt relationship
With her ereader. She loves the book smell “ crisp and clean, slightly inky, laced with love “ , but also loves the “instant gratification” of an ereader. “ The thing is , though while my ereader is awesome, it doesn’t quench my thrust to flip a page, or run a finger down smooth paper or stick my nose in the boo’s spine and inhale. I read somewhere that one of those famous perfume designers has created a new fragrance that smells, like books.
101: children’s books: Goodnight Moon, BeatrixPotter, on the night you were born and Guess how much I Love You ( a book she fantasized about reading to her own baby one day)
116 Yeats poetry about love
When You Are Old
BY WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS
When you are old and grey and full of sleep,
And nodding by the fire, take down this book,
And slowly read, and dream of the soft look
Your eyes had once, and of their shadows deep;
How many loved your moments of glad grace,
And loved your beauty with love false or true,
But one man loved the pilgrim soul in you,
And loved the sorrows of your changing face;
And bending down beside the glowing bars,
Murmur, a little sadly, how Love fled
And paced upon the mountains overhead
And hid his face amid a crowd of stars.
296 We all [deserve fireworks and trust and respect]. Nick just doesn’t think it’s possible and maybe it’s not possible for everyone, but I think I’d rather be alone than not have it.
Not everyone settles.
Mom didn't. And I don't plan to either.
I turn to our senior-class pictures and find Trip's photo. Beneath his somber face is his full name, Thomas Alexander Monroe. I read his senior quote and smile. Trip quoted Dr. Seuss: Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.
I look back and think about how much Trip and I had in common. We were both outsiders, both different, and both desperately trying to fit in. In some ways we still have a lot in com-mon. Just like Trip, I'm still trying to be someone I'm not.
The fact is I'm not Parisian. Strange things pop into my head at the weirdest times (and I'm okay with that). I'm an ordinary girl from Catfish Cove, Florida, who was raised by untraditional parents. Sometimes I speak with a twang. I'm twenty (okay, maybe twenty-five) pounds overweight, and to be honest, unless something really drastic happens, I don't think I'll be losing any of that extra poundage soon. My favorite author is Jane Austen and my favorite movie is Little Women (the version with Winona Ryder).
Oh, and I suck at moderation. Yes, I am different.
But then, isn't everyone?
September 17, 2012
You can find my whole posting here: http://mimi-cyberlibrarian.blogspot.c...
Maria Geraci calls herself the “author of fun, romantic women’s fiction,” and that is exactly what A Girl Like You is—fun, romantic women’s fiction.
Emma is a journalist for a regional magazine in Florida. Although she is a good journalist and very smart, she suffers from self-esteem issues because she is a size 14 rather than a size 2, and when you are in the market for a man, size seems to matter—especially when you are in your early 30s and everyone is pairing up. She has several loyal friends and co-workers, who support and encourage each other. The plot hinges on an interview that she is attempting to get with a famous, sexy NASCAR driver with whom she went to high school. As she works toward that goal, she tries on a romance with a cop in her hometown named Nick, pines for her boss, Ben, and ignores her co-worker Richard.
A good bit of the story and the humor hinges on the self-talk that Emma engages in as she attends to her work, her social life, and her relationship with her two mothers. By the way, the natural way in which the author weaves that state of affairs is delightful. A generation ago, being raised by two mothers would have caused a stir; now, we just read our way through it, and say, “…oh.” No exclamation point needed. One of my favorite lines of self-talk comes early in the book when Emma is at the bar on Friday night with her friends—and a few not-such-good friends. She says, “Slowly, I begin to fill with the sort of clarity that comes from being the alien in the room full of Others.” Throughout the book, Emma remains true to herself, which is a lovely quality in the protagonist. She had an experience in high school for which she continues to feel guilty, hence some of her feelings of inadequacy. This quality of self-truth is appealing.
I related to Emma on several levels. First, I was always a size 14 in a world of size 2s. At the same time, as a young woman, I had the kind of confidence that comes from knowing you are good at what you do and knowing that you are loveable. Underneath all her self-talk, Emma has that confidence and can-do attitude, too. Self-esteem is a chancy business. A person, particularly a woman, can feel competent on the one hand and totally inadequate on the other. It has only been with age that I have conquered some of those feelings of inadequacy. As I watch my granddaughters find their place in the world, I see the whole self-talk, confidence, inadequacy scenario playing out for another generation.
What is also appealing is that Geraci, the author, doesn’t seem to take herself too seriously, either. She knows exactly what kind of book she is delivering, and she delivers it extremely well. The loose ends get tied up, Emma finds a man, although not the man she was seeking, and she excels in her career. Besides that, Geraci doesn’t hit you over the head with issues. That is what makes it fun.
I received this book from the publicist. I recommend it.
Maria Geraci’s website: http://mariageraci.com/ She is the author of several other chicklit books.
Maria Geraci calls herself the “author of fun, romantic women’s fiction,” and that is exactly what A Girl Like You is—fun, romantic women’s fiction.
Emma is a journalist for a regional magazine in Florida. Although she is a good journalist and very smart, she suffers from self-esteem issues because she is a size 14 rather than a size 2, and when you are in the market for a man, size seems to matter—especially when you are in your early 30s and everyone is pairing up. She has several loyal friends and co-workers, who support and encourage each other. The plot hinges on an interview that she is attempting to get with a famous, sexy NASCAR driver with whom she went to high school. As she works toward that goal, she tries on a romance with a cop in her hometown named Nick, pines for her boss, Ben, and ignores her co-worker Richard.
A good bit of the story and the humor hinges on the self-talk that Emma engages in as she attends to her work, her social life, and her relationship with her two mothers. By the way, the natural way in which the author weaves that state of affairs is delightful. A generation ago, being raised by two mothers would have caused a stir; now, we just read our way through it, and say, “…oh.” No exclamation point needed. One of my favorite lines of self-talk comes early in the book when Emma is at the bar on Friday night with her friends—and a few not-such-good friends. She says, “Slowly, I begin to fill with the sort of clarity that comes from being the alien in the room full of Others.” Throughout the book, Emma remains true to herself, which is a lovely quality in the protagonist. She had an experience in high school for which she continues to feel guilty, hence some of her feelings of inadequacy. This quality of self-truth is appealing.
I related to Emma on several levels. First, I was always a size 14 in a world of size 2s. At the same time, as a young woman, I had the kind of confidence that comes from knowing you are good at what you do and knowing that you are loveable. Underneath all her self-talk, Emma has that confidence and can-do attitude, too. Self-esteem is a chancy business. A person, particularly a woman, can feel competent on the one hand and totally inadequate on the other. It has only been with age that I have conquered some of those feelings of inadequacy. As I watch my granddaughters find their place in the world, I see the whole self-talk, confidence, inadequacy scenario playing out for another generation.
What is also appealing is that Geraci, the author, doesn’t seem to take herself too seriously, either. She knows exactly what kind of book she is delivering, and she delivers it extremely well. The loose ends get tied up, Emma finds a man, although not the man she was seeking, and she excels in her career. Besides that, Geraci doesn’t hit you over the head with issues. That is what makes it fun.
I received this book from the publicist. I recommend it.
Maria Geraci’s website: http://mariageraci.com/ She is the author of several other chicklit books.
September 6, 2012
“I have my pride. I might not be a beauty queen, but I too am a person… No matter how plain I might be, I am deserving of love. I refuse to pine after any man.” (from A Girl Like You, page 21)
All girls, it seems, have their fair share of men troubles. For Emma Frazier, attracting her friends’ cast-offs appears to be her lot in life. Until now. With several rather attractive and fit men showing an interest in her, Emma faces a different conundrum. Will she choose Boston Ben, her boss and crush for the past seven months? He is handsome, yet not too handsome, smart, kind to animals, and has a great laugh. But will Emma forget all about her beau from Boston when hometown hottie Nick Alfonso makes his moves? After all, Nick is a cop and cops exude sex appeal, right? Emma struggles with her feelings, refusing to settle for anything less than ardent love. Could one of these dreamboats be the one, or is there someone else who can make Emma’s dreams come true?
Relationship difficulties are not the only troubles for Emma. She needs to land an interview with NASCAR superstar and former classmate, Trip Monroe, for an upcoming edition of Florida!, the magazine where she works. However, how is Emma to do this when Trip refuses any interviews? While digging for nuggets of interesting information on Mr. Monroe from his relatives, Emma ‘s journalistic skills just may uncover more than just Trip’s secrets.
Maria Geraci paints a picture of characters with struggles, each with their own insecurities, hang-ups, and challenges. This is one quality of Geraci’s writing I have come to enjoy. Both male and female characters are so well developed, I could easily picture any of them, and their life circumstances, amongst our current society. At different times I was able to empathize with each of the ladies. Adding to the story’s familiar feel was the narrative voice. Even though Emma used a couple of phrases over and again, her thoughts helped to further develop the plot and engage me.
Even though I enjoy the steamy scenes Geraci has written in some of her other novels, A Girl Like You maintains a romantic feel without all the details, making this a great read for those who want the romance without the hot and heavy scenes.
FTC Disclaimer: Review copy provided by author
Originally posted on www.leatherboundreviews.blogspot.com
All girls, it seems, have their fair share of men troubles. For Emma Frazier, attracting her friends’ cast-offs appears to be her lot in life. Until now. With several rather attractive and fit men showing an interest in her, Emma faces a different conundrum. Will she choose Boston Ben, her boss and crush for the past seven months? He is handsome, yet not too handsome, smart, kind to animals, and has a great laugh. But will Emma forget all about her beau from Boston when hometown hottie Nick Alfonso makes his moves? After all, Nick is a cop and cops exude sex appeal, right? Emma struggles with her feelings, refusing to settle for anything less than ardent love. Could one of these dreamboats be the one, or is there someone else who can make Emma’s dreams come true?
Relationship difficulties are not the only troubles for Emma. She needs to land an interview with NASCAR superstar and former classmate, Trip Monroe, for an upcoming edition of Florida!, the magazine where she works. However, how is Emma to do this when Trip refuses any interviews? While digging for nuggets of interesting information on Mr. Monroe from his relatives, Emma ‘s journalistic skills just may uncover more than just Trip’s secrets.
Maria Geraci paints a picture of characters with struggles, each with their own insecurities, hang-ups, and challenges. This is one quality of Geraci’s writing I have come to enjoy. Both male and female characters are so well developed, I could easily picture any of them, and their life circumstances, amongst our current society. At different times I was able to empathize with each of the ladies. Adding to the story’s familiar feel was the narrative voice. Even though Emma used a couple of phrases over and again, her thoughts helped to further develop the plot and engage me.
Even though I enjoy the steamy scenes Geraci has written in some of her other novels, A Girl Like You maintains a romantic feel without all the details, making this a great read for those who want the romance without the hot and heavy scenes.
FTC Disclaimer: Review copy provided by author
Originally posted on www.leatherboundreviews.blogspot.com
December 3, 2012
Reviewed for TwoLips Reviews, LLC
3 Kisses, 0 Peppers (sweet romance)
Emma Frazier has a crush on her new boss but her hopes are dashed when he goes home from the bar with the chick who called her "the ugly friend". Emma is a writer for a magazine and the majority of the story revolves around her promise to get a big scoop on NASCAR giant Trip Monroe. He’s been named “sexiest man alive” and is rather elusive.
Trip and Emma went to school together and she assumes he'll be happy to talk to her. Naturally she exaggerates how well she knows him. She drives to her hometown for the weekend, hoping to get some information on him and bumps into old high school heartthrob, Nick Alfonso. He flirts with her and they end up making out. Is Nick the one for her? What will happen with Trip? What about her boss, Ben?
It’s Emma’s sheer dumb luck that makes things work out for her in the end. She's apparently a good writer, but in general she's totally clueless.
What I liked about A Girl Like You: Maria Geraci's writing style is witty and fun. It tends to suck you in so you want to read the whole book in one sitting. I really liked that Emma has two lesbian mothers, and how that issue is dealt with throughout the book.
What I didn’t like so much: The book is written from the first person point of view, so we have no idea what the other characters are thinking or feeling. For me, this is usually a big handicap. Also, per the publisher, this book is classified as "Women’s Fiction", more specifically "Chick Lit". It has romantic elements, but that doesn’t seem to be the main focus of the book. Also, I didn't like Emma or her friends very much. If I had to hang out with Emma for very long, I’d get pretty cranky. I found it nearly impossible to identify with her, and I find that's often the case for me with Chick Lit. Finally, there was zero heat, which really isn't the type of book I usually prefer to read.
There was a very unexpected twist at the end, regarding the "romance" aspect of the book. I won’t spoil it for you, but I’m still deciding if this made the book more interesting or just completely frustrating. If you’re a fan of Chick Lit, you’ll probably enjoy this more than I did.
3 Kisses, 0 Peppers (sweet romance)
Emma Frazier has a crush on her new boss but her hopes are dashed when he goes home from the bar with the chick who called her "the ugly friend". Emma is a writer for a magazine and the majority of the story revolves around her promise to get a big scoop on NASCAR giant Trip Monroe. He’s been named “sexiest man alive” and is rather elusive.
Trip and Emma went to school together and she assumes he'll be happy to talk to her. Naturally she exaggerates how well she knows him. She drives to her hometown for the weekend, hoping to get some information on him and bumps into old high school heartthrob, Nick Alfonso. He flirts with her and they end up making out. Is Nick the one for her? What will happen with Trip? What about her boss, Ben?
It’s Emma’s sheer dumb luck that makes things work out for her in the end. She's apparently a good writer, but in general she's totally clueless.
What I liked about A Girl Like You: Maria Geraci's writing style is witty and fun. It tends to suck you in so you want to read the whole book in one sitting. I really liked that Emma has two lesbian mothers, and how that issue is dealt with throughout the book.
What I didn’t like so much: The book is written from the first person point of view, so we have no idea what the other characters are thinking or feeling. For me, this is usually a big handicap. Also, per the publisher, this book is classified as "Women’s Fiction", more specifically "Chick Lit". It has romantic elements, but that doesn’t seem to be the main focus of the book. Also, I didn't like Emma or her friends very much. If I had to hang out with Emma for very long, I’d get pretty cranky. I found it nearly impossible to identify with her, and I find that's often the case for me with Chick Lit. Finally, there was zero heat, which really isn't the type of book I usually prefer to read.
There was a very unexpected twist at the end, regarding the "romance" aspect of the book. I won’t spoil it for you, but I’m still deciding if this made the book more interesting or just completely frustrating. If you’re a fan of Chick Lit, you’ll probably enjoy this more than I did.
September 4, 2012
Let me tell you about this book.
I was at the library using wireless there since our cabin is sans Internet. Every time I glanced up, the bright pink cover of the book was smack in my line of view. The darn think taunted me, but I resisted. The next day, I chose a new seat, but the book had been moved on the shelf and again was right in my face. The next time I was back at the library, the book had been checked out. No magenta cover mocked me-- until the librarian came by to re-shelve books, and guess what was back and placed on the shelf across from me. Uh huh. That's right.
Let me tell you about this story: fresh, funny, thoughtful. Yes, it's chick lit, but chick lit with character and decent writing. I liked it. Emma, the main character has wit, intelligence, and a keen perspective on life. She is blessed with good friends, loving mothers, and a dogged determination that carries her through some interesting situations. Ms. Maria Geraci chose to create a path for Emma that carries her out of the realm of chick lit, into something with more depth and insight than someone picking up that magenta cover might initially suppose. From the opening gambit, where Emma hears someone describe her as "the fat friend" (you know, the one who other girls bring along so that they'll look better) Maria Geraci creates real characters, puts them in believable situations, and tops it off with nice writing, humor, and insight that gave this reader an author to watch. The relationships between friends, lovers, co-workers, and family were refreshingly believable. And I love a book that makes me laugh with the cleverness of a phrase or situation. Emma's "let me tell you" moments were a nice touch, too
Let me tell you something I've done, that you probably haven't , that happened in the book. Cow paddy bingo-- only I played it with horse droppings. And I won. So there!
Maybe I liked Emma so much because she and I share a commonality. As Emma said, "I have a tendency to overanalyze things. It's both my greatest strength and my greatest weakness." Let me think on that a bit more, and get back to you.
(Rounded up from 4.5 stars.)
I was at the library using wireless there since our cabin is sans Internet. Every time I glanced up, the bright pink cover of the book was smack in my line of view. The darn think taunted me, but I resisted. The next day, I chose a new seat, but the book had been moved on the shelf and again was right in my face. The next time I was back at the library, the book had been checked out. No magenta cover mocked me-- until the librarian came by to re-shelve books, and guess what was back and placed on the shelf across from me. Uh huh. That's right.
Let me tell you about this story: fresh, funny, thoughtful. Yes, it's chick lit, but chick lit with character and decent writing. I liked it. Emma, the main character has wit, intelligence, and a keen perspective on life. She is blessed with good friends, loving mothers, and a dogged determination that carries her through some interesting situations. Ms. Maria Geraci chose to create a path for Emma that carries her out of the realm of chick lit, into something with more depth and insight than someone picking up that magenta cover might initially suppose. From the opening gambit, where Emma hears someone describe her as "the fat friend" (you know, the one who other girls bring along so that they'll look better) Maria Geraci creates real characters, puts them in believable situations, and tops it off with nice writing, humor, and insight that gave this reader an author to watch. The relationships between friends, lovers, co-workers, and family were refreshingly believable. And I love a book that makes me laugh with the cleverness of a phrase or situation. Emma's "let me tell you" moments were a nice touch, too
Let me tell you something I've done, that you probably haven't , that happened in the book. Cow paddy bingo-- only I played it with horse droppings. And I won. So there!
Maybe I liked Emma so much because she and I share a commonality. As Emma said, "I have a tendency to overanalyze things. It's both my greatest strength and my greatest weakness." Let me think on that a bit more, and get back to you.
(Rounded up from 4.5 stars.)
July 14, 2012
If you’re not quite ready to let go of summer, A Girl Like You by Maria Geraci is the perfect book for you. This fun romance centers on Emma Frazier, a talented and hardworking writer for lifestyle magazine Florida!, who just happens to have a major crush on her boss, Ben Gallagher. Everything seems to be moving in the right direction until Emma overhears herself referred to during a night out as “the ugly friend,” as in a person someone brings along so they will appear more attractive in comparison.
This blow to her self-esteem leads Emma to promise an interview with Trip Monroe, a NASCAR legend who just happens to be from her hometown. Unfortunately, actually getting the interview ends up being quite a bit harder than she thought. As Emma pursues Ben (romantically) and Trip (professionally), she uncovers long-hidden secrets that lead her to question some of the things she has always believed about herself.
The characters in A Girl Like You are well drawn, with her coworkers and a few close friends filling the scene in Tampa, and her two moms as well as an old friend, who is now pursuing her, rounding out the cast back home in Catfish Cove. There is also a lot of action as Emma travels back and forth from Tampa to Catfish Cove, with some side trips as she becomes more worried about whether she will be able to deliver the promised interview for the upcoming issue of the magazine.
Although the tone of the book is light and fun, the plot stays realistic even where it would have been easy to veer off into the direction of a farce, which I appreciated. Emma has the opportunity for some reflection and personal growth in the process, which is also handled with a deft touch to keep it from becoming overly serious.
I highly recommend A Girl Like You to anyone looking for a light, engaging end to the summer’s reading.
This blow to her self-esteem leads Emma to promise an interview with Trip Monroe, a NASCAR legend who just happens to be from her hometown. Unfortunately, actually getting the interview ends up being quite a bit harder than she thought. As Emma pursues Ben (romantically) and Trip (professionally), she uncovers long-hidden secrets that lead her to question some of the things she has always believed about herself.
The characters in A Girl Like You are well drawn, with her coworkers and a few close friends filling the scene in Tampa, and her two moms as well as an old friend, who is now pursuing her, rounding out the cast back home in Catfish Cove. There is also a lot of action as Emma travels back and forth from Tampa to Catfish Cove, with some side trips as she becomes more worried about whether she will be able to deliver the promised interview for the upcoming issue of the magazine.
Although the tone of the book is light and fun, the plot stays realistic even where it would have been easy to veer off into the direction of a farce, which I appreciated. Emma has the opportunity for some reflection and personal growth in the process, which is also handled with a deft touch to keep it from becoming overly serious.
I highly recommend A Girl Like You to anyone looking for a light, engaging end to the summer’s reading.
August 3, 2012
I loved reading A Girl Like You by Maria Geraci. The novel was sweet, fun, and heart-warming.
I really liked Emma. She was a flawed protagonist without being completely broken or beat down. She didn't have a huge personal issue to overcome but she still had a realization by the end. Sometimes main characters are so troubled that it can be hard to follow and it can result in a plot that's just too heavy. With this novel, it was nice to read about someone who was pretty normal and who could easily be one of my friends!
It seems like I tend to favour books that have main characters who are writers - whether it's a journalist for a newspaper or magazine, a blogger, or a travel writer. Not sure what that says about me but the main point is that I seem to enjoy their stories more. Emma's job had quite a bit to do with this book. She's in love with her boss and is trying to impress him with getting a great story. It was interesting to see how everything turned out.
I like that this book had a little taste of everything. It wasn't strictly a career focused plot as Emma also had to come to terms with being called the "ugly friend." She had that personal issue and she had some excellent friends to help her through. She also had a strong family support system with her two moms. As in most chick lit, there was a romance - but with which guy? I loved that Geraci kept me guessing on that front. And the book was funny! Emma was clever and got herself in a lot of entertaining situations.
Overall, I really enjoyed A Girl Like You and think many other readers would as well. I didn't want to put it down! I've had another of Maria Geraci's novels, The Boyfriend of the Month Club, on my shelf for awhile and it will be moved up on my to-be-read list because I enjoyed this one so much!
I really liked Emma. She was a flawed protagonist without being completely broken or beat down. She didn't have a huge personal issue to overcome but she still had a realization by the end. Sometimes main characters are so troubled that it can be hard to follow and it can result in a plot that's just too heavy. With this novel, it was nice to read about someone who was pretty normal and who could easily be one of my friends!
It seems like I tend to favour books that have main characters who are writers - whether it's a journalist for a newspaper or magazine, a blogger, or a travel writer. Not sure what that says about me but the main point is that I seem to enjoy their stories more. Emma's job had quite a bit to do with this book. She's in love with her boss and is trying to impress him with getting a great story. It was interesting to see how everything turned out.
I like that this book had a little taste of everything. It wasn't strictly a career focused plot as Emma also had to come to terms with being called the "ugly friend." She had that personal issue and she had some excellent friends to help her through. She also had a strong family support system with her two moms. As in most chick lit, there was a romance - but with which guy? I loved that Geraci kept me guessing on that front. And the book was funny! Emma was clever and got herself in a lot of entertaining situations.
Overall, I really enjoyed A Girl Like You and think many other readers would as well. I didn't want to put it down! I've had another of Maria Geraci's novels, The Boyfriend of the Month Club, on my shelf for awhile and it will be moved up on my to-be-read list because I enjoyed this one so much!
May 8, 2013
I was in desperate need of an adult romance and didn't even know it until I got my hands on this gem. While I love my YA, I definitely needed a change in genre and this was the perfect book. A Girl Like You is a heartwarming and fun read that I truly enjoyed and am really glad I picked up.
A Girl Like You has a little bit of everything mixed in: romance, humor, family, friendship and work related issues and situations. From the beginning, I was able to connect with the main character, and really liked Emma. She's a bit unsure of herself because she's a size 12 and is called "the ugly friend" by an acquaintance. Yet, she's determined to make the best of things and we watch as Emma stumbles across loves, makes new friends, and learns to spend more time with her moms. I admired her strength to get through situations, her honesty and her courage. I also admired her ability to forgive those who hurt her, all while making and keeping friends.
While Emma is attempting to get an interview with a celebrity she went to high school with, but hasn't seen in over 14 years, she puts herself in some pretty funny situations that had me laughing out loud and wondering where the story was going. I really thought I had everything figured out, but was nicely surprised with how things turned out for Emma in the end. I definitely didn't see it coming.
Overall: I don't want to gush too much about the book, because I really loved everything about A Girl Like You: the main character, and all the secondary characters (each unique and really special to the story,) the small town setting (I love small towns!) and the romance aspect. I couldn't put this book down once I started it and I definitely recommend to others who love contemporary romance. This is one you won't want to miss!
A Girl Like You has a little bit of everything mixed in: romance, humor, family, friendship and work related issues and situations. From the beginning, I was able to connect with the main character, and really liked Emma. She's a bit unsure of herself because she's a size 12 and is called "the ugly friend" by an acquaintance. Yet, she's determined to make the best of things and we watch as Emma stumbles across loves, makes new friends, and learns to spend more time with her moms. I admired her strength to get through situations, her honesty and her courage. I also admired her ability to forgive those who hurt her, all while making and keeping friends.
While Emma is attempting to get an interview with a celebrity she went to high school with, but hasn't seen in over 14 years, she puts herself in some pretty funny situations that had me laughing out loud and wondering where the story was going. I really thought I had everything figured out, but was nicely surprised with how things turned out for Emma in the end. I definitely didn't see it coming.
Overall: I don't want to gush too much about the book, because I really loved everything about A Girl Like You: the main character, and all the secondary characters (each unique and really special to the story,) the small town setting (I love small towns!) and the romance aspect. I couldn't put this book down once I started it and I definitely recommend to others who love contemporary romance. This is one you won't want to miss!
August 14, 2012
*This was a first-reads book!*
This is my first time reading Maria Geraci and definitely think I will read more of her books. This was such a fun, quick, chick-lit book! I enjoyed the story but most of all I enjoyed the characters. They were easy to identify with and were very likable. I have to say that at first I thought this was going to be a predictable and somewhat generic story. But I definitely was wrong. Once you get into the story a little more you are hooked and invested in the characters. I was actually pleasantly surprised with the ending and loved that the last chapter was a sort of follow up chapter that lets you know what is going on with characters after the fact. I always feel disappointed when I read chick-lit books, I am left wanting more closure. Maria left me satisfied with the ending and that was definitely refreshing.
Emma is a thirty something journalist who isn't the typical, stunning beauty. In fact while in the bathroom at a local bar she overhears people refer to her as the "ugly friend". Can that be true? Is she that much less attractive then her friends? Well, unfortunately her friends are drop dead gorgeous and she is, well, not. She keeps her head up and tries to impress her boss, Ben, who she has been crushing on for the last few months. In order to do this she offers to get an exclusive interview with the NASCAR hottie Trip who she happened to go to high school with. The only problem is that she hasn't talked to him since. While she is trying to track Trip down she works on her self-esteem, finds an unexpected crush and learns a ton about herself.
This is my first time reading Maria Geraci and definitely think I will read more of her books. This was such a fun, quick, chick-lit book! I enjoyed the story but most of all I enjoyed the characters. They were easy to identify with and were very likable. I have to say that at first I thought this was going to be a predictable and somewhat generic story. But I definitely was wrong. Once you get into the story a little more you are hooked and invested in the characters. I was actually pleasantly surprised with the ending and loved that the last chapter was a sort of follow up chapter that lets you know what is going on with characters after the fact. I always feel disappointed when I read chick-lit books, I am left wanting more closure. Maria left me satisfied with the ending and that was definitely refreshing.
Emma is a thirty something journalist who isn't the typical, stunning beauty. In fact while in the bathroom at a local bar she overhears people refer to her as the "ugly friend". Can that be true? Is she that much less attractive then her friends? Well, unfortunately her friends are drop dead gorgeous and she is, well, not. She keeps her head up and tries to impress her boss, Ben, who she has been crushing on for the last few months. In order to do this she offers to get an exclusive interview with the NASCAR hottie Trip who she happened to go to high school with. The only problem is that she hasn't talked to him since. While she is trying to track Trip down she works on her self-esteem, finds an unexpected crush and learns a ton about herself.
August 7, 2012
I have read The Boyfriend of the Month Club by Maria Geraci, and I knew when I was offered a copy of her latest I would want to take that up! Geraci is an excellent chick lit author, and I was charmed by this novel. The MC is Emma Frazier, a journalist for a Florida lifestyle magazine. While she knows she isn’t a 10 in the looks department, her ego still gets slammed when she overhears a mutual acquaintance call her the “ugly friend.” Emma tries to bounce back from that blow by getting ahead at work – and impressing her hot boss at the same time. She promises to get an exclusive interview with NASCAR legend Trip Monroe, who is from the same town of Catfish Cove as Emma. Nabbing the interview proves tougher that she expects, but while back in her hometown, she runs into the still-sexy Nick from her high school, and sparks fly. Can Emma manage to reel in a prime catch, save her ego, and still manage to get a one-up at work – or finally come to accept herself for who she truly is?
This is one for your to-read list! My favorite part about this book was the way that there was no clear-cut guy (at least in my opinion) for Emma. I kept changing my mind on who she was going to end up with, and without giving his identity away, I’ll say it surprised me! That went for a lot of the book – just when I thought the plot would go one way, it twisted another. Love these types of books! Emma was a great lead, full of questions and concerns and had a very relatable attitude about life, career, and love, and this was a delightful chick lit read all around.
This is one for your to-read list! My favorite part about this book was the way that there was no clear-cut guy (at least in my opinion) for Emma. I kept changing my mind on who she was going to end up with, and without giving his identity away, I’ll say it surprised me! That went for a lot of the book – just when I thought the plot would go one way, it twisted another. Love these types of books! Emma was a great lead, full of questions and concerns and had a very relatable attitude about life, career, and love, and this was a delightful chick lit read all around.
April 25, 2014
Emma Frazier is confronted with one thing that no woman wants to hear: "she is the ugly friend". After that ill-fated night with her two besties and her mutual "friend," Emma wants to make a splash and have her uber hot boss notice her by promising an article on Trip Monroe, NASCAR legend. On the journey to land an interview Emma discovers a lot about herself, her moms and her friends on her quest to become confident in her life.
Let me tell you what I really think about the novel:
Overall, I would recommend this novel for those who want a fun, quirky, chick-lit read.
Let me tell you what I really think about the novel:
Overall, I would recommend this novel for those who want a fun, quirky, chick-lit read.
July 8, 2012
Rating: 3.25
Overall impression: This was nice to read, but not something I would read again, unless it involved more of her future relationship.
What I liked:
≈She introduces herself as a 5-out-of-10-looking person
≈The unimportant characters are great
≈She explains who is who explicitly and the side characters (although kind of numerous) are really easy to keep track of, due to their interesting stories
What I disliked:
≈The main story was less interesting than everyone else's
≈Sometimes I couldn't tell whether the plot was centered around getting her article or getting her guy (it's supposed to be centered around her, that much I'm sure)
≈Personality- I can't find much of it. I get a bit from her actions, but not really what drives her. Although, she seems to think that she over-analyzes too much and that her mothers have influenced her with their kindness, intelligence, etc., I don't really see her as a person I would know in real life. Basically, she's just another character.
≈She went through most of the book being in a relationship with one guy although originally crushing on another. Then when her relationship ended, she kissed her boss (her previous crush). When she realizes she doesn't like him/he's a tool, she's into another co-worker by the end of the book. As for her co-worker- even if the guy appeared through the book, she barely started showing interest in him until the last few pages.
Overall impression: This was nice to read, but not something I would read again, unless it involved more of her future relationship.
What I liked:
≈She introduces herself as a 5-out-of-10-looking person
≈The unimportant characters are great
≈She explains who is who explicitly and the side characters (although kind of numerous) are really easy to keep track of, due to their interesting stories
What I disliked:
≈The main story was less interesting than everyone else's
≈Sometimes I couldn't tell whether the plot was centered around getting her article or getting her guy (it's supposed to be centered around her, that much I'm sure)
≈Personality- I can't find much of it. I get a bit from her actions, but not really what drives her. Although, she seems to think that she over-analyzes too much and that her mothers have influenced her with their kindness, intelligence, etc., I don't really see her as a person I would know in real life. Basically, she's just another character.
≈She went through most of the book being in a relationship with one guy although originally crushing on another. Then when her relationship ended, she kissed her boss (her previous crush). When she realizes she doesn't like him/he's a tool, she's into another co-worker by the end of the book. As for her co-worker- even if the guy appeared through the book, she barely started showing interest in him until the last few pages.
August 14, 2012
3.5
A Girl Like You is a quick, fun read with the most important elements for a girl like me; excellent character development and humor. You know those little moments you catalog in your brain but don't articulate the moment? Geraci does it and it's fun to see.
Emma is a small town girl who happens to carry a few pounds more than her skinny friends. It's never really bothered her much until she overhears someone with few social graces mention that she's the "ugly friend." The book tells a story that meanders quite a bit but my interest didn't meander. I just kept reading and enjoying it. I finally understood how it tied together but I won't tell you that part. I will say that what Geraci accomplishes is writing a believable story with flawed, wonderful and real characters that often react to previous experiences and overheard conversations rather than enjoying the moment.
I loved every character. Especially the most flawed of them. My favorite scene is where Emma leaves one character at the end of a dock, with his hands pushed into his pockets, looking thoughtfully out to the distance like a Nicholas Sparks novel. Cracked. Me. Up.
Fun read. Perfect summer escape.
A Girl Like You is a quick, fun read with the most important elements for a girl like me; excellent character development and humor. You know those little moments you catalog in your brain but don't articulate the moment? Geraci does it and it's fun to see.
Emma is a small town girl who happens to carry a few pounds more than her skinny friends. It's never really bothered her much until she overhears someone with few social graces mention that she's the "ugly friend." The book tells a story that meanders quite a bit but my interest didn't meander. I just kept reading and enjoying it. I finally understood how it tied together but I won't tell you that part. I will say that what Geraci accomplishes is writing a believable story with flawed, wonderful and real characters that often react to previous experiences and overheard conversations rather than enjoying the moment.
I loved every character. Especially the most flawed of them. My favorite scene is where Emma leaves one character at the end of a dock, with his hands pushed into his pockets, looking thoughtfully out to the distance like a Nicholas Sparks novel. Cracked. Me. Up.
Fun read. Perfect summer escape.
September 5, 2012
This was my first exposure to Maria Geraci and I found her delightful. This book is for any girl who has felt the sting of low self-esteem - and personally I don't know a girl out there who hasn't felt it at one time or another. The characters are easy to relate to - especially Emma. She doesn't come from the traditional family, having two moms, but that just gives a nice twist to the story.
Emma is beginning to worry that she won't find the man she is supposed to settle down with. She is only 32, but her moms have been hinting at grandkids for a couple of years. This book is sort of like her journey to self discovery - and how she ends up with the man of her dreams. Of course you know what they say - you have to kiss a few frogs before you end up with your prince. Maria does a great job of balancing the serious with the humorous, while also not letting you know too soon how it is going to end.
If you are a fan of chick lit, then you should add this book to your tbr list.
Emma is beginning to worry that she won't find the man she is supposed to settle down with. She is only 32, but her moms have been hinting at grandkids for a couple of years. This book is sort of like her journey to self discovery - and how she ends up with the man of her dreams. Of course you know what they say - you have to kiss a few frogs before you end up with your prince. Maria does a great job of balancing the serious with the humorous, while also not letting you know too soon how it is going to end.
If you are a fan of chick lit, then you should add this book to your tbr list.
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