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The List Trilogy #1
The Life List
When she was just sixteen, Chrissy Anderson made a life list…
…The outcome is a dream husband, a career to envy, and the kind of best friends every girl wants. Then out of nowhere…an affair. What would you do if you realized the life you created wasn’t right for you? You think you know the answer? Think again. Follow Chrissy as she lies and cheats and ultimately learns to tell the truth to herself and those that she loves.
At twenty-eight, Chrissy has been steadily checking off the boxes on her life list as she mocks the style and life choices of everyone around her. She’s got it all—or so everyone thinks. Her life begins to fall apart when she unexpectedly meets a much younger man, Leo, who makes her question just how perfect her “perfect life” really is. With the help of her no-nonsense therapist, Dr. Maria, Chrissy learns more about herself than she anticipates. But it isn’t until she stares an untimely death in the face that Chrissy is catapulted into an overdue reality check. Only then does she scramble to correct the mistakes of her past…trying to figure out if it’s her husband Kurt, her lover Leo, or both that she has to leave behind to make everything right.
Women of all kinds will be able to relate to the pressure of constructing the ideal life, only to fall short. Not everyone will agree with Chrissy Anderson’s decisions, but all will pause as they follow along on her journey to ask, “What would I do if I were her?”
…The outcome is a dream husband, a career to envy, and the kind of best friends every girl wants. Then out of nowhere…an affair. What would you do if you realized the life you created wasn’t right for you? You think you know the answer? Think again. Follow Chrissy as she lies and cheats and ultimately learns to tell the truth to herself and those that she loves.
At twenty-eight, Chrissy has been steadily checking off the boxes on her life list as she mocks the style and life choices of everyone around her. She’s got it all—or so everyone thinks. Her life begins to fall apart when she unexpectedly meets a much younger man, Leo, who makes her question just how perfect her “perfect life” really is. With the help of her no-nonsense therapist, Dr. Maria, Chrissy learns more about herself than she anticipates. But it isn’t until she stares an untimely death in the face that Chrissy is catapulted into an overdue reality check. Only then does she scramble to correct the mistakes of her past…trying to figure out if it’s her husband Kurt, her lover Leo, or both that she has to leave behind to make everything right.
Women of all kinds will be able to relate to the pressure of constructing the ideal life, only to fall short. Not everyone will agree with Chrissy Anderson’s decisions, but all will pause as they follow along on her journey to ask, “What would I do if I were her?”
406 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2012
169 people are currently reading
2166 people want to read
About the author
Chrissy Anderson
6 books119 followersWho is Chrissy? Does it even matter really? I guess it would matter to the real Chrissy if she wrote The Life List for fortune and fame. But she didn’t. She did it all for you. Hold on, scratch that. Of course there were some self-indulgent components to the whole shootin’ match, but at the end of the day, she sees bits and pieces of her checkered past in almost every woman she encounters and she wants to help them, tell them they’re NOT crazy.
Women of all kinds- twenty-somethings, housewives and superwomen wanna-bes- will all be able to relate to the same pressures Chrissy felt of constructing the ideal life, only to fall short. And I suspect there will be a lot of exhaling going on as those women read The Life List. I certainly don’t expect everyone to agree with Chrissy Anderson’s decisions, but all will pause as they follow along on her journey to ask, “What would I do if I were her?”
Women of all kinds- twenty-somethings, housewives and superwomen wanna-bes- will all be able to relate to the same pressures Chrissy felt of constructing the ideal life, only to fall short. And I suspect there will be a lot of exhaling going on as those women read The Life List. I certainly don’t expect everyone to agree with Chrissy Anderson’s decisions, but all will pause as they follow along on her journey to ask, “What would I do if I were her?”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
May 2, 2013
I'm very torn writing this review. On the one hand, Chrissy's story so closely mimics what I went through a few years ago, that I couldn't put the book down. Another plus, is that the story is set in my backyard and I love reading books that take place where I live.
On the other hand, I kept wondering whether the author bothered to have anyone edit her book. There were so many grammatical, formatting, and punctuation errors that it was distracting. The punctuation errors were most distracting (e.g. when she spoke about "Slutty Co-Workers apartment" she NEVER used the possessive apostrophe! Additionally, she always wrote things like "margarita's" when it should be "margaritas") Totally annoying and distracting.
The worst part was, I found Chrissy to be immensely unlikable. I found her to be a "mean girl," racist, and dare I say it, anti-Semitic. She referred to one of her co-workers as a J.A.P. (Jewish American Princess), repeatedly. This is not a term of endearment. And when faced with whether to go on a date with a man who is African American she says, "I'm not down with the brown."
All-in-all, I give this book about 2.5 stars since I wavered between not liking it and liking it a whole bunch. That said, I will probably be reading the second book in the trilogy because I really want to give Chrissy a chance to redeem herself and further, if it turns out that she finds happily ever after, then maybe I will too...
On the other hand, I kept wondering whether the author bothered to have anyone edit her book. There were so many grammatical, formatting, and punctuation errors that it was distracting. The punctuation errors were most distracting (e.g. when she spoke about "Slutty Co-Workers apartment" she NEVER used the possessive apostrophe! Additionally, she always wrote things like "margarita's" when it should be "margaritas") Totally annoying and distracting.
The worst part was, I found Chrissy to be immensely unlikable. I found her to be a "mean girl," racist, and dare I say it, anti-Semitic. She referred to one of her co-workers as a J.A.P. (Jewish American Princess), repeatedly. This is not a term of endearment. And when faced with whether to go on a date with a man who is African American she says, "I'm not down with the brown."
All-in-all, I give this book about 2.5 stars since I wavered between not liking it and liking it a whole bunch. That said, I will probably be reading the second book in the trilogy because I really want to give Chrissy a chance to redeem herself and further, if it turns out that she finds happily ever after, then maybe I will too...
March 24, 2012
WOW! Through tears, laugher, and moments of cringing I found myself drawn into the story that Chrissy Anderson has woven for her readers. Chrissy is candid as she unveils her story and what happens when you think you've got the "perfect life" only to question everything after a chance encounter with a stranger. What happens over the next several years in Chrissy's life will test her resolve and lead her to adventures in her life that she never dreamed of -- the good, the bad, and the tears.
Refreshingly honest -- so honest that at times I read between my fingers because she shared so much! -- but always striving to become the woman she wanted to be for the rest of her life! Chrissy has a voice in her writing. Her readers are taken into her story and root for Chrissy to recognize who she is before she loses everything she never knew she wanted!!
You will NOT be disappointed with this new author. And when you come to the end of The Life List, you’ll be disappointed that the book ended too soon! So, come on Chissy, we’re awaiting your sequel to The Life List! Please do not leave us hanging too long!!!
By the way, this would make an INCREDIBLE story on the “big screen” so let’s find a way to get some Producer to read this book!!! (I rarely say something like this but I really mean it!!!)
Refreshingly honest -- so honest that at times I read between my fingers because she shared so much! -- but always striving to become the woman she wanted to be for the rest of her life! Chrissy has a voice in her writing. Her readers are taken into her story and root for Chrissy to recognize who she is before she loses everything she never knew she wanted!!
You will NOT be disappointed with this new author. And when you come to the end of The Life List, you’ll be disappointed that the book ended too soon! So, come on Chissy, we’re awaiting your sequel to The Life List! Please do not leave us hanging too long!!!
By the way, this would make an INCREDIBLE story on the “big screen” so let’s find a way to get some Producer to read this book!!! (I rarely say something like this but I really mean it!!!)
December 19, 2012
"I don't wanna do this anymore."
"What do you want to do then?"
"I have absolutely no idea."
"Hunny, just go find him so we can all get the fuck on with our lives."
"Oh yeah...and tell him what?"
"That you love him!"
This book was hilarious, heart warming & inspiring. :)
"What do you want to do then?"
"I have absolutely no idea."
"Hunny, just go find him so we can all get the fuck on with our lives."
"Oh yeah...and tell him what?"
"That you love him!"
This book was hilarious, heart warming & inspiring. :)
November 11, 2012
I don't say this often, but with this one it's true: I could not put this book down. The writing, as well as the story sucked me in, and I was hooked from page one. I suspect it's a story that will stay with me for some time, too. I laughed, I cried, I yelled at my Kindle screen, and I can't help it, I rooted for Chrissy and Leo.
Chrissy doesn't want to become Bridges of Madison County's Francesca--doomed to a life of unhappiness and unfulfillment. But like Francesca, she feels it's her responsibility to choose the happiness of others over her own. Chrissy did an excellent job of showing the problems in her marriage (the problems with which a lot of women grapple), and the emotional seesaw she was on in struggling with the decision to divorce or not divorce. Show me one woman who cannot identify with something Chrissy went through in this book, and I'll show you a woman who is either very young, very much in denial, or the very luckiest woman on earth.
Meeting Leo makes Chrissy question everything in her life. She shows us right away that the two are meant for each other, but sometimes life just isn't that easy. She freely admits the mistakes she made, but the reader can feel the agony of what she went through. This is a book about marriage, love, and life. It's about one woman's quest to find herself and the agony of leaving behind a safe marriage for one of happiness and fulfillment. She did a good job of showing all the sides of the story without breaking out of the first person narrative. Chrissy Anderson's writing is crisp and clear. I felt like she was talking to me, telling me her story, and I was with her every step of the way. I admire her brutal honesty, her courage, and her ability to laugh at herself.
I'm so glad I knew the outcome of her story before I started the book or I would have been a total basket case trying to find out if she's happy now. Even so, the book was suspenseful, funny, heartbreaking, sexy, dramatic, and believable. I can't wait to read the sequel, The Unexpected List. Don't make us wait long, Chrissy.
Chrissy doesn't want to become Bridges of Madison County's Francesca--doomed to a life of unhappiness and unfulfillment. But like Francesca, she feels it's her responsibility to choose the happiness of others over her own. Chrissy did an excellent job of showing the problems in her marriage (the problems with which a lot of women grapple), and the emotional seesaw she was on in struggling with the decision to divorce or not divorce. Show me one woman who cannot identify with something Chrissy went through in this book, and I'll show you a woman who is either very young, very much in denial, or the very luckiest woman on earth.
Meeting Leo makes Chrissy question everything in her life. She shows us right away that the two are meant for each other, but sometimes life just isn't that easy. She freely admits the mistakes she made, but the reader can feel the agony of what she went through. This is a book about marriage, love, and life. It's about one woman's quest to find herself and the agony of leaving behind a safe marriage for one of happiness and fulfillment. She did a good job of showing all the sides of the story without breaking out of the first person narrative. Chrissy Anderson's writing is crisp and clear. I felt like she was talking to me, telling me her story, and I was with her every step of the way. I admire her brutal honesty, her courage, and her ability to laugh at herself.
I'm so glad I knew the outcome of her story before I started the book or I would have been a total basket case trying to find out if she's happy now. Even so, the book was suspenseful, funny, heartbreaking, sexy, dramatic, and believable. I can't wait to read the sequel, The Unexpected List. Don't make us wait long, Chrissy.
March 23, 2012
The Life List evokes so much emotion. I found myself so absorbed I didn't want to stop reading, I just had to know what happened next. I laughed out loud, I cried, I could feel tension as if I were there, re-living that moment right with her. I felt myself wishing that I had just a fraction of her courage to be able to stop and assess life, the way she did and take the measures that were necessary to correct the situation. This story is so relatable for all women. Thank you Chrissy, for sharing your deepest darkest secrets and for allowing us to be a part of your journey.
February 9, 2015
I was suppose to read this book for my bookclub, but ended up reading the wrong book, same title. At first I hated this book, the main character was just ICK! But you know me, I will drag myself through any book I start.
Well eerily, the story started to mirror a very painful part of my life. Therapy sessions in the book were almost word for word to the therapy session I had at a time in life when I was trying to figure out how I got so lost. The book took me back to that time so vividly, it was as if I was reading my old journals from 1995-6.
I am glad I did not read this book before bookclub. A room full of married friends whose lives have not come close to this? It would have felt painful to know what they saw as recluse behavior really happens. It happened to me.
I have come so far. My life is at peace now. This book reminded me to love my story, even if it has not been the fairytale I was hoping for.
Well eerily, the story started to mirror a very painful part of my life. Therapy sessions in the book were almost word for word to the therapy session I had at a time in life when I was trying to figure out how I got so lost. The book took me back to that time so vividly, it was as if I was reading my old journals from 1995-6.
I am glad I did not read this book before bookclub. A room full of married friends whose lives have not come close to this? It would have felt painful to know what they saw as recluse behavior really happens. It happened to me.
I have come so far. My life is at peace now. This book reminded me to love my story, even if it has not been the fairytale I was hoping for.
May 1, 2013
I don't even know where to start with how real this book is. My emotions and my mind are still trying to real in the mulitude of how much this book impacted my heart. I laughed, cried and was so angry at times that I didn't know if I could finish this book, but then I pick back up my kindle because I could not stay away. I had to know what Chrissy was going to do next , while I am screaming at her to fiqure her shit out and get it together. I fell in love with this beautiful story of love , friendship and one womens journey of trying to find her true self and what make her life complete.. I beg any women out there who is married to read this crazy beautiful story because we all have Chrissy tentiances and this story will suck you in and spit you out and leave you breathless!!!
May 1, 2013
Holly ****!!!!!! That's all that keeps going through my mind. I've read a lot of good books this year but this & The Unexpected List by far has to be the best. I laughed I cried my eyes out & was immediately sucked in. I've watched Bridges of Madison County too & had the exact same reaction. Some parts in this book felt like my own life the only difference is I'm not as brave as Chrissy. This book just might have changed my life I cant recommend it enough. My only complaint is we have to wait so long for the final one.
April 17, 2012
Picked up The Life List while on a girls weekend and couldn't put it down. Glad there was a pool & lots of sun with no distractions to finish this read cover to cover. While Chrissy's struggle to find her "wholeness" is quite relatable, I am drawn to the four best friends, especially Kelly, that "grow up together." Chrissy does a fantastic job telling this story and making you believe we can all have what she has. Can't wait to see what's next!
November 27, 2012
This was a great book! The story was so touching and exciting and I rooted for her to win. She messed up so much in her life, she had no where to go but up...right?! Very very good!
February 6, 2014
3.5 stars
If I had to use one word to describe this book, I would use this one : Raw....
As such, this is not a book for everyone. Chrissy Anderson is raw, exposed, crude, harsh, sometimes to the point of being shocking.... I gasped quite a few times when reading this, because you just don't expect this kind of naked disclosure in a book - it's as if the author bared herself and all of her psyche for everyone to see, and that's not something easy to stomach, because we see her in all her unconcealed aspects. Many can be offended by her views....
...but to me this same 'shocking' quality is what made this a read that is definitely out of the ordinary, the one thing that kept me glued and wanting to know more, because it feels like getting to know Chrissy Anderson exactly as she is, like sitting down with her for coffee/drinks and she having no BS-barrier while she talks and tells you about her life.
One of the most poignant books I've read in a long time.... This is not a read for the faint-hearted or those easily offended or who have frail sensibilities. This book is out there and does not hold back any punch!
If I had to use one word to describe this book, I would use this one : Raw....
As such, this is not a book for everyone. Chrissy Anderson is raw, exposed, crude, harsh, sometimes to the point of being shocking.... I gasped quite a few times when reading this, because you just don't expect this kind of naked disclosure in a book - it's as if the author bared herself and all of her psyche for everyone to see, and that's not something easy to stomach, because we see her in all her unconcealed aspects. Many can be offended by her views....
...but to me this same 'shocking' quality is what made this a read that is definitely out of the ordinary, the one thing that kept me glued and wanting to know more, because it feels like getting to know Chrissy Anderson exactly as she is, like sitting down with her for coffee/drinks and she having no BS-barrier while she talks and tells you about her life.
One of the most poignant books I've read in a long time.... This is not a read for the faint-hearted or those easily offended or who have frail sensibilities. This book is out there and does not hold back any punch!
May 14, 2013
I received a copy of The Life List by Chrissy Anderson in exchange for an honest review.
Whew. What a book. When you read this (not if, when) be prepared to be entertained, to learn, to question, to laugh, to cry. This book was hard to put down from the first page, and even though I think it was a little on the long side, it was worth ever moment. I finished this book last week and I’m still talking to people about it. The characters are still sticking with me, and I’m even still questioning some of life choices after reading this very thought-provoking novel. I’m not sure I can really list all the reasons why I loved this book so much. There was drama and heartbreak and betrayal and friendships and .... truth. The emotions are raw, the storyline is not pretty at times, and there is some deep stuff to be uncovered throughout the chapters. I am so excited that this is a trilogy, and after begging Anderson for the second novel, I am happy to say The Unexpected List is now on my Kindle. Truly not one to miss.
Whew. What a book. When you read this (not if, when) be prepared to be entertained, to learn, to question, to laugh, to cry. This book was hard to put down from the first page, and even though I think it was a little on the long side, it was worth ever moment. I finished this book last week and I’m still talking to people about it. The characters are still sticking with me, and I’m even still questioning some of life choices after reading this very thought-provoking novel. I’m not sure I can really list all the reasons why I loved this book so much. There was drama and heartbreak and betrayal and friendships and .... truth. The emotions are raw, the storyline is not pretty at times, and there is some deep stuff to be uncovered throughout the chapters. I am so excited that this is a trilogy, and after begging Anderson for the second novel, I am happy to say The Unexpected List is now on my Kindle. Truly not one to miss.
June 3, 2013
"Trust me, if I stopped long enough to think about how fucking disgusting I am, I'd want to kill myself. But I'm having too much fun to die, so I try not to think about it." I could NOT put this book down, I read it in a day and 1/2 and loved every minute. It's not the hottest love story, it's not the funniest or the scariest or the most mysterious book I've ever read. But it's REAL. The characters are so real and their problems are real and their dysfunction is real. I only just now realized it's based on a true story :) I don't know how she survived this and came out on the other side with enough of her wits about her to write it all down, but I'm grateful she did! Even up until the very last page I had no idea what choice she would make or which path her life would go down, this book made me laugh, cry and cheer. I love Chrissy, she makes a lot of mistakes in life but she owns them. Highly recommend, starting book #2 now!
September 18, 2013
I totally fell in love with this book! I can't say that I agree with the things that Chrissy did or chose to do in this book but the fact that I was turning the pages at 3 o'clock in the morning to find out what in the world she had gotten into or what she was gonna do.....speaks volumes! I couldn't put it down as I read the last word I was purchasing book 2 and couldn't help but catch myself giggling about things that I took far more seriously before I read this book than I actually should have. I have reflected on my own life lists and realized that being truly happy is far greater than what people think of you or your life.
I fell in love with the whole gang and while I wanted to strangle Kurt and make out with Leo and just give Chrissy a big ole vodka tonic or glass of wine and hug I can't wait to see how her story unfolds
Spot on truly ,madly,deeply and I wouldn't only suggest this book I BEG you to read it! It was that good....yes, yes it was!
I fell in love with the whole gang and while I wanted to strangle Kurt and make out with Leo and just give Chrissy a big ole vodka tonic or glass of wine and hug I can't wait to see how her story unfolds
Spot on truly ,madly,deeply and I wouldn't only suggest this book I BEG you to read it! It was that good....yes, yes it was!
July 13, 2013
this is a difficult one to review. first this poor girl needs an editor. some parts are amazingly lucid and painful. other parts are definitely mean girl and disgust me for the holier than thou attitude. i feel like there is one of a kind voice in there somewhere but gets obscured by some trite b.s.
then again im reading.this at a topsy turvy time of my life. im not sure what i would think if i was more emotionally even keeled.
i definitely liked the message that Kelly gave codependent chrissy though .. brutally honest message that will stick with me.
i will likely pick this up again.
ps. i can't stand "hunny"
then again im reading.this at a topsy turvy time of my life. im not sure what i would think if i was more emotionally even keeled.
i definitely liked the message that Kelly gave codependent chrissy though .. brutally honest message that will stick with me.
i will likely pick this up again.
ps. i can't stand "hunny"
July 7, 2013
It was ok - quite readable and interesting as to how(eventually) Chrissy did make the changes to her life that she wanted. There are some quite odd racist comments which I wasn't comfortable reading and to be honest would prevent me from reading any more of her books. I had thought they were deliberate and there would be some sort of denouement relating to these but there wasn't...hence the two star.
She does describe her best and worst points quite candidly throughout the book which was one redeeming factor.
She does describe her best and worst points quite candidly throughout the book which was one redeeming factor.
March 24, 2013
This book was free and I really liked it. Chrissy was a great character living the perfect life until one day she woke up and realized she wasn't. Doesn't hurt when the wake up call is a hot younger man! Love love loved the secondary characters; I laughed, I cried, I snorted through my nose. Great read.
April 29, 2013
I was so absorbed with this book, I didn't want to stop reading had to know what happened next, therefore I only slept 2.5 hours last night! My throat swelled and I cried, laughed out loud, got angry as if I was there living that moment with her. I evoked such emotion in my that all I can say is THANK YOU for writing, sharing and allowing us to par-take in your journey!
March 19, 2013
I cannot say enough good stuff about this book. A must read for 30 something women. Beware tears will happen and you may not agree with all decisions in book but the way she writes pulls you into her world. I would recommend to all friends so none of us ends up the sad frumpy lady :)
November 16, 2012
I absolutely love, love, loved this book! It will make you laugh, cry, scream and hope. Sooo looking forward to the next installment of the LIST series.
April 28, 2013
LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!! I laughed, cried, screamed in frustration, and a few times just wanted to shake my head at Chrissy. Starting book 2 now.
May 3, 2013
I wanted to hate this when I read the first few pages, but I couldn't... It was utterly brilliant, and I felt like I was living each step along with Chrissy
June 24, 2013
Holy. freaking. hell.
So, I began reading this book quite a while ago and as you may or may have not noticed I hadn't added any updates during the process. Yes, reading this book was a process. It truly was sort of exhausting. I really enjoyed reading this book but I actually didn't read straight through it. There were days I went without picking up my kindle because I had to process all that I read. To me it just needed to be done. I felt like when I read, I needed to make sure I kept up with everything that was going on in the book. This book is definitely eye opening and it actually makes you question some of the things going on in your life. At least it did in mine. I have felt like Chrissy, so I completely understand where she's coming from. This book is definitely a great read, you just need to have patience and want to digest everything that you're reading. I actually had teary eyes at one point...it makes you feel love, loss, happiness, sorrow, sadness, and regret...all in a few pages.
Chrissy is such a rather different lead than I'm used to. Yes, she was hopeless, confused and so lost that reading her thoughts caused me to hurt...but she wasn't always like that. It's like although she knew the decisions she was making were harmful to her life...she wanted to make them because she was trying to set herself free. She wanted to become the woman she so hopelessly desired to be all the while keeping all of the pieces of herself and everyone around her fully intact. Which, was a rather difficult task. But she managed it, all throughout these "turning her life right side up" events...she was able to eventually come to a point where she was happy, successful, and loved.
"I'm stronger, more beautiful, and more courageous than I ever thought I was or gave myself credit for being."
Let me add that I fell in L-O-V-E with Leo. I absolutely adored the passion he had going for Chrissy and that fact that he would so easily welcome her back into his life even when there were times that as far as I'm concerned, she didn't deserve. I don't mean to be cold-hearted, but the reality is that this story had so many ups and downs that it had my head was spinning. (I did in fact enjoy the head spins, but that's not the point!) Anyways, back to sexy..controlling...and jealous as all hell Leo. He was an amazing character and I'm glad that they ended up together even after all the crap they'd been through during the playing out of the story.
Or so I believe, because the ending leaves me to guess that there is more to come in the next two books than I am willing to accept. I've even began reading the second book and I think I may be right. Sooooooo since I don't want to add any spoilers....I think I need to stop.
"You need to stop taking each day of your life for granted and spend it with the ones you love the most, the ones that make you feel the most loved."
So, I began reading this book quite a while ago and as you may or may have not noticed I hadn't added any updates during the process. Yes, reading this book was a process. It truly was sort of exhausting. I really enjoyed reading this book but I actually didn't read straight through it. There were days I went without picking up my kindle because I had to process all that I read. To me it just needed to be done. I felt like when I read, I needed to make sure I kept up with everything that was going on in the book. This book is definitely eye opening and it actually makes you question some of the things going on in your life. At least it did in mine. I have felt like Chrissy, so I completely understand where she's coming from. This book is definitely a great read, you just need to have patience and want to digest everything that you're reading. I actually had teary eyes at one point...it makes you feel love, loss, happiness, sorrow, sadness, and regret...all in a few pages.
Chrissy is such a rather different lead than I'm used to. Yes, she was hopeless, confused and so lost that reading her thoughts caused me to hurt...but she wasn't always like that. It's like although she knew the decisions she was making were harmful to her life...she wanted to make them because she was trying to set herself free. She wanted to become the woman she so hopelessly desired to be all the while keeping all of the pieces of herself and everyone around her fully intact. Which, was a rather difficult task. But she managed it, all throughout these "turning her life right side up" events...she was able to eventually come to a point where she was happy, successful, and loved.
"I'm stronger, more beautiful, and more courageous than I ever thought I was or gave myself credit for being."
Let me add that I fell in L-O-V-E with Leo. I absolutely adored the passion he had going for Chrissy and that fact that he would so easily welcome her back into his life even when there were times that as far as I'm concerned, she didn't deserve. I don't mean to be cold-hearted, but the reality is that this story had so many ups and downs that it had my head was spinning. (I did in fact enjoy the head spins, but that's not the point!) Anyways, back to sexy..controlling...and jealous as all hell Leo. He was an amazing character and I'm glad that they ended up together even after all the crap they'd been through during the playing out of the story.
Or so I believe, because the ending leaves me to guess that there is more to come in the next two books than I am willing to accept. I've even began reading the second book and I think I may be right. Sooooooo since I don't want to add any spoilers....I think I need to stop.
"You need to stop taking each day of your life for granted and spend it with the ones you love the most, the ones that make you feel the most loved."
December 25, 2013
Chrissy Anderson has left me baffled at her ability to make me take a 180degree turn in my opinion of her and her work!
First off I started reading this story and was a bit disconnected, I thought her narration was very Blaise and care a hang like, but I new it had something to do with the character.... Not all characters we read have to make us love them and swoon and yearn to be them.
As the pages flipped I was a bit confused but let me tell you now that I've seen the light there's a reason and it's bloody good.
So there's mystery and suspense which is amazing in a book, there's a central character that you don't like very much but you'll find yourself rooting for her and getting worked up for her cause and also wanting to slap her silly some times and yes it's all totally worth it.
It was long yes but reasonably so. It's life and life is long and hard and heart ripping and crippling and yes this story is all that.
I'm breathless by the time I'm don't cause I don't know how and when but Chrissy has become apart of me and my life jut and she and her experiences have become a part of my past and present. There's so much ine can relate too and it doesn't have to be the whole thing but little parts here n there. Few mistakes, a few lies some hurt ful words and deeds and embarrassments all sprinkled in that make you see us all as human and we are reallygood inside just making a few bad choices. And most importantly trying to change the outcomes into something good and happy once we realise out folies.
So a million thanks and congrats for Chrissy who had the chutzpah and guts to do this and b that!!! That strong amazing woman that experienced so much and came out better for it and now shares it with the world! Thank you!
First off I started reading this story and was a bit disconnected, I thought her narration was very Blaise and care a hang like, but I new it had something to do with the character.... Not all characters we read have to make us love them and swoon and yearn to be them.
As the pages flipped I was a bit confused but let me tell you now that I've seen the light there's a reason and it's bloody good.
So there's mystery and suspense which is amazing in a book, there's a central character that you don't like very much but you'll find yourself rooting for her and getting worked up for her cause and also wanting to slap her silly some times and yes it's all totally worth it.
It was long yes but reasonably so. It's life and life is long and hard and heart ripping and crippling and yes this story is all that.
I'm breathless by the time I'm don't cause I don't know how and when but Chrissy has become apart of me and my life jut and she and her experiences have become a part of my past and present. There's so much ine can relate too and it doesn't have to be the whole thing but little parts here n there. Few mistakes, a few lies some hurt ful words and deeds and embarrassments all sprinkled in that make you see us all as human and we are reallygood inside just making a few bad choices. And most importantly trying to change the outcomes into something good and happy once we realise out folies.
So a million thanks and congrats for Chrissy who had the chutzpah and guts to do this and b that!!! That strong amazing woman that experienced so much and came out better for it and now shares it with the world! Thank you!
January 30, 2014
I found this book through the author's facebook page and was intrigued. I added it to my TBR and finally decided to give it a try. I have to say I was hooked by page 1....It was like reading a page out of my life as I buried one of my dearest friends 6 months ago...I loved how the story flows and how you actually see how Chrissy grows from beginning to end. It was quite an amazing story for me and I did not put it down from beginning to end.
The Life list isn't just about a girl going through a divorce, a late 20's crisis, or even coping with her friends death. It's truly a story about growth and change and facing the hard stuff. It's heartbreaking to me how many people find themselves in Chrissy's place staying where they are because it's easier instead of going out and taking a risk on happy. This book is so brutally honest in that it really makes you look at yourself. I love that! I love a book that makes me think and question, this one does that well!
Not many books reach me enough to make me cry, but by the end this one did. And while I was disappointed in Chrissy for her poor choices, by the end of the book I was sincerely rooting for her and her finding happiness. It's truly what everyone should be seeking and this book is refreshingly honest about that. After finishing book 1, I immediately bought book 2! I will be adding Chrissy Anderson to my favorite author's list and will be watching to see what she comes up with next!
The Life list isn't just about a girl going through a divorce, a late 20's crisis, or even coping with her friends death. It's truly a story about growth and change and facing the hard stuff. It's heartbreaking to me how many people find themselves in Chrissy's place staying where they are because it's easier instead of going out and taking a risk on happy. This book is so brutally honest in that it really makes you look at yourself. I love that! I love a book that makes me think and question, this one does that well!
Not many books reach me enough to make me cry, but by the end this one did. And while I was disappointed in Chrissy for her poor choices, by the end of the book I was sincerely rooting for her and her finding happiness. It's truly what everyone should be seeking and this book is refreshingly honest about that. After finishing book 1, I immediately bought book 2! I will be adding Chrissy Anderson to my favorite author's list and will be watching to see what she comes up with next!
June 3, 2016
I started the book with the lowest of expectations; I had never heard of the author or the title, I had no idea about the plot and I only opened it because I needed to calm my brains before sleep, so I picked a random title hoping it would do the job. But then the story caught me quite quickly and I ended up going to bed later than I had planned, and the next day I jumped on it as soon as I finished work, eager to see what happens next.
I really liked the story, and you can totally tell it was written by a woman. I've read other books on adultery before, written by male authors but telling the story from a female perspective; they were very far from imagining and putting so well into words the rollercoaster of emotions and overthinking that a woman usually feels/does in any given (delicate) situation. And the fact that the story is based on the author's personal experience makes everything even more realistic.
Regarding the comments posted everywhere about the spelling and grammar issues... Chrissy Anderson explained on several other sites that she spotted and corrected the issues, but only after 14.000 copies were already out there. I got an unrevised copy myself, it was indeed a bit uncomfortable to read (because I'm a spelling and grammar nazi), but it didn't spoil the fun, so you can safely read whatever version you have there.
All in all - a book that's easy to read, a plot that's easy to believe, and an author I'll be keeping my eyes on.
I really liked the story, and you can totally tell it was written by a woman. I've read other books on adultery before, written by male authors but telling the story from a female perspective; they were very far from imagining and putting so well into words the rollercoaster of emotions and overthinking that a woman usually feels/does in any given (delicate) situation. And the fact that the story is based on the author's personal experience makes everything even more realistic.
Regarding the comments posted everywhere about the spelling and grammar issues... Chrissy Anderson explained on several other sites that she spotted and corrected the issues, but only after 14.000 copies were already out there. I got an unrevised copy myself, it was indeed a bit uncomfortable to read (because I'm a spelling and grammar nazi), but it didn't spoil the fun, so you can safely read whatever version you have there.
All in all - a book that's easy to read, a plot that's easy to believe, and an author I'll be keeping my eyes on.
considering
May 9, 2013Sounds moving and a little depressing, might be what I need when I'm in the mood.
When she was just sixteen, Chrissy Anderson made a life list:
1) Graduate college in four years with a degree in business.
2) Get a job in the fashion industry where I can travel and boss people around.
3) Buy my first house when I'm twenty-three.
4) Marry Kurt when I'm twenty-five.
5) Move into a BIGGER house when I'm twenty-seven.
6) Have first baby when I'm twenty-eight. I want a boy first and a girl second!
7) I want my kids to be two years apart so they can be best friends forever.
At twenty-eight, she's been steadily checking off the boxes (as she mocks the style and life choices of everyone around her). Now married to Kurt, the man of her dreams, she's got it all-or so everyone thinks. Chrissy's trendy life in suburban Northern California begins to run amuck when she meets the much younger Leo, an unexpected man who makes her question just how perfect her "perfect life" really is. With the help of her brassy, no-nonsense therapist, Dr. Maria, Chrissy learns more about herself than she anticipates.
When the untimely death of her best friend catapults her into an overdue reality check, Chrissy scrambles to correct the mistakes of her past. In order to make everything right again, will she have to end things with Kurt or Leo ... or both?
When she was just sixteen, Chrissy Anderson made a life list:
1) Graduate college in four years with a degree in business.
2) Get a job in the fashion industry where I can travel and boss people around.
3) Buy my first house when I'm twenty-three.
4) Marry Kurt when I'm twenty-five.
5) Move into a BIGGER house when I'm twenty-seven.
6) Have first baby when I'm twenty-eight. I want a boy first and a girl second!
7) I want my kids to be two years apart so they can be best friends forever.
At twenty-eight, she's been steadily checking off the boxes (as she mocks the style and life choices of everyone around her). Now married to Kurt, the man of her dreams, she's got it all-or so everyone thinks. Chrissy's trendy life in suburban Northern California begins to run amuck when she meets the much younger Leo, an unexpected man who makes her question just how perfect her "perfect life" really is. With the help of her brassy, no-nonsense therapist, Dr. Maria, Chrissy learns more about herself than she anticipates.
When the untimely death of her best friend catapults her into an overdue reality check, Chrissy scrambles to correct the mistakes of her past. In order to make everything right again, will she have to end things with Kurt or Leo ... or both?
August 21, 2013
I agree with other "reviewers" that this book is totally relatable in some way or another to all experiences women have in life. The aspects of Chrissy's life made me reflect on my own life and in doing so, I think I learned a lot about myself through her - that it's OK to feel pain and it's OK to make decisions others don't always agree with but will lead you on a path to happiness. I don't think I would have made all the decisions she made but this story is an honest account of one woman's unique life journey. I recommend the book for any women struggling with difficult decisions in their life or those who need a "dose of reality" in realizing life isn't always a bouquet full of flowers but it isn't supposed to be miserably lived either - in Chrissy's pain we learn how she chooses to make things better for herself with the support of her best girl friends and therapist, a real balancing act if you ask me. I didn't realize there are other books in this story and I am excited to read the rest of the trilogy series!
November 18, 2013
This was from BookBub and was either 99 cents or free and I thought what the heck lets try it......BEST DECISION EVER!! This book is so emotional that I could hardly contain my tears, laughter, and yes even anger at some of the characters. The way the author touches the almost exact emotions of what the characters are going through is amazing. I really started looking at myself and my decisions in life differently. I especially the excerpts of songs in between the chapters! Those simple little lines or verses gave the words to come so much more emotion and depth-even if you didn't know the all songs, the meaning behind the words just capture such an intense feelings and help you prepare for the turn of events that are about to take place.
I would definitely recommend this to my friends!!! Great job!
I would definitely recommend this to my friends!!! Great job!
Read
June 10, 2014This series is impossible for me to rate. As my friend Cori knows, I hardly put it down and read all three books in a long weekend. I enjoy unlikable narrators and angst, and the author does not hold back when taking us through a very tumultuous time in her own life. At times it was shocking (and sad, sweet and funny), but I admire her for putting it all out there. There were some interesting messages and takeaways on marriage.
On the other hand, the story needed to be edited way down and tightened and there were distracting grammatical errors. It's hard to question the story since she lived it, but there were many moments when I thought "really?" If you aren't a fan of cheating, love triangles or brutally honest narrators, this isn't for you (I loved her references to Jerry Springer and Young and the Restless because there are similarities), but it certainly kept my attention.
On the other hand, the story needed to be edited way down and tightened and there were distracting grammatical errors. It's hard to question the story since she lived it, but there were many moments when I thought "really?" If you aren't a fan of cheating, love triangles or brutally honest narrators, this isn't for you (I loved her references to Jerry Springer and Young and the Restless because there are similarities), but it certainly kept my attention.
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