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Handcuffs and Happily Ever Afters #1
How Hard Can It Be?
HOW HARD CAN IT BE?
One happy ending coming right up…
*************************************************
What happens when an accountant decides to grab life by the horns and try something new? Apparently a pirate named Dave, a lot of pastel fleece, and blackmail—just to start with…
Visualize and succeed, Oprah said. I was sure as hell trying, even if my campaign to score a job as the local weather girl had ended in a restraining order. Okay, TV was not my strength. But a lack of talent has never stopped me before. Which is why I’ve embarked on a writing career. I mean, how hard can it be to come up with a sexy romance?
Leave it to me to wind up in a group of grandmotherly porno writers who discuss sex toys and apple cobbler in the same breath. Also leave it to me to leak an outlandish plot idea to a bestselling author with the morals of a rabid squirrel. And only I could get arrested for a jewelry heist I didn’t commit—by a hunky cop whose handcuffs just might tempt me to sign up for a life of crime. Maybe I’ve found my calling after all…
One happy ending coming right up…
*************************************************
What happens when an accountant decides to grab life by the horns and try something new? Apparently a pirate named Dave, a lot of pastel fleece, and blackmail—just to start with…
Visualize and succeed, Oprah said. I was sure as hell trying, even if my campaign to score a job as the local weather girl had ended in a restraining order. Okay, TV was not my strength. But a lack of talent has never stopped me before. Which is why I’ve embarked on a writing career. I mean, how hard can it be to come up with a sexy romance?
Leave it to me to wind up in a group of grandmotherly porno writers who discuss sex toys and apple cobbler in the same breath. Also leave it to me to leak an outlandish plot idea to a bestselling author with the morals of a rabid squirrel. And only I could get arrested for a jewelry heist I didn’t commit—by a hunky cop whose handcuffs just might tempt me to sign up for a life of crime. Maybe I’ve found my calling after all…
278 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2013
411 people are currently reading
2225 people want to read
About the author
Robyn Peterman
90 books3,241 followersRobyn writes because the people inside her head won’t leave her alone until she gives them life on paper. Her addictions include shoes (the expensive kind), Coke with extra ice in a styrofoam cup, and bejeweled reading glasses.
A former professional actress, she now lives in the south with her family and too many animals to count. Writing gives her a chance to have a job where working in her P.J.’s is acceptable. You can follow Robyn at http://www.robynpeterman.com and at Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Robyn-P....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 310 reviews
May 5, 2013
OMG!!! I never laughed so hard in my life while reading a book!!! My face would hurt, tears formed in my eyes and dang it I couldn't breathe. There were parts that I wanted to call and tell my sister about but I couldn't stop laughing in order to make the call!! She told me it was a good thing I wasn't reading in public, they would think I was crazy. *laughs*
From the first chapter I was laughing and I was in love with this book. The only reason I had to put it down was because the battery in my Kindle was screaming at me that it needed more juice. (Damn needy thing) I truly love the characters that Robyn has created. And the Granny Porn group sounds a lot like me and my girlfriends in a couple of decades. *grins*
I laughed and was in shock of the tale that is Pirate Dave and His Randy Adventures. It looks as if it will have its own novella soon and the sequel to this one due sometime in December. I am super excited for both.
If you enjoy a bit of mystery, some romance, a lot of laughter, talk of butt plugs and a huge vocabulary for.....well a man's.....YOU KNOW!!!! *falls over laughing* You need to read this book. I promise you will enjoy it. Just don't forget to wear adult diapers or at least be prepared to change your panties. It's pee in your pants kinda funny.
http://sisterbitches.blogspot.com/201...
From the first chapter I was laughing and I was in love with this book. The only reason I had to put it down was because the battery in my Kindle was screaming at me that it needed more juice. (Damn needy thing) I truly love the characters that Robyn has created. And the Granny Porn group sounds a lot like me and my girlfriends in a couple of decades. *grins*
I laughed and was in shock of the tale that is Pirate Dave and His Randy Adventures. It looks as if it will have its own novella soon and the sequel to this one due sometime in December. I am super excited for both.
If you enjoy a bit of mystery, some romance, a lot of laughter, talk of butt plugs and a huge vocabulary for.....well a man's.....YOU KNOW!!!! *falls over laughing* You need to read this book. I promise you will enjoy it. Just don't forget to wear adult diapers or at least be prepared to change your panties. It's pee in your pants kinda funny.
http://sisterbitches.blogspot.com/201...
October 2, 2017
**This is an audiobook review**
How do I review this and not trash it or the author (or the narrator)?
I can't. So, I'll just say that this book was not for me. It was a struggle to complete it. I'm glad it's over.
-End.
How do I review this and not trash it or the author (or the narrator)?
I can't. So, I'll just say that this book was not for me. It was a struggle to complete it. I'm glad it's over.
-End.
January 16, 2013
I freaking LOVE this book. How hard can it be is THE funniest book I have ever read. The premise is truly one of a kind.
Rena (not your average CPA) is on a mission to be 'somebody'. Her attempts to be the local weather girl failed so she tries her hand with a local author group in order to meet the world famous NYT Best Selling author Evangeline. Little does she know that the author from hell steals all of her book ideas by framing the other members of the group.
Determined to make Evangeline's book the worst EVER... hilarity ensues when she spins a tale about Captain Dave the Time Traveling Vampire Warlock and his conjoined girlfriends Laverne and Shirley.
I have never laughed so hard reading a book. Honestly, I don't know if I've laughed so hard at anything. At times I cried and tears streamed down my face, so much so, I couldn't see the pages and would have to stop. Other times, I would have to get up and go to the bathroom to keep from peeing my pants. Insane laughter aside, there is also a very good love story that progresses and some of the moments are extremely HOT.
You have to have a pretty good sense of humor to read this story. That said. When you pick it up you won't want to put it down.
Rena (not your average CPA) is on a mission to be 'somebody'. Her attempts to be the local weather girl failed so she tries her hand with a local author group in order to meet the world famous NYT Best Selling author Evangeline. Little does she know that the author from hell steals all of her book ideas by framing the other members of the group.
Determined to make Evangeline's book the worst EVER... hilarity ensues when she spins a tale about Captain Dave the Time Traveling Vampire Warlock and his conjoined girlfriends Laverne and Shirley.
I have never laughed so hard reading a book. Honestly, I don't know if I've laughed so hard at anything. At times I cried and tears streamed down my face, so much so, I couldn't see the pages and would have to stop. Other times, I would have to get up and go to the bathroom to keep from peeing my pants. Insane laughter aside, there is also a very good love story that progresses and some of the moments are extremely HOT.
You have to have a pretty good sense of humor to read this story. That said. When you pick it up you won't want to put it down.
November 11, 2012
CdnMrs ARC Review: How Hard Can it Be by Robyn Peterman
*Review originally posted at www.wickedlilpixie.com on 11/17/12 *
*Review originally posted at www.wickedlilpixie.com on 11/17/12 *
What happens when an accountant decides to grab life by the horns and try something new? Apparently a pirate named Dave, a lot of pastel fleece, and blackmail—just to start with…
Visualize and succeed, Oprah said. I was sure as hell trying, even if my campaign to score a job as the local weather girl had ended in a restraining order. Okay, TV was not my strength. But a lack of talent has never stopped me before. Which is why I’ve embarked on a writing career. I mean, how hard can it be to come up with a sexy romance?
Leave it to me to wind up in a group of porno writing grannies who discuss sex toys and apple cobbler in the same breath. Also leave it to me to leak an outlandish plot idea to a bestselling author with the morals of a rabid squirrel. And only I could get arrested for a jewelry heist I didn’t commit—by a hunky cop whose handcuffs just might tempt me to sign up for a life of crime. Maybe I’ve found my calling after all…
Honestly, I picked this ARC out at NetGalley because the cover was cute and the title made me imagine a douchey frat boy pointing at his crotch and saying, “I'll show you how hard it can be.” Luckily those two things made me the perfect demographic for this book.
This is the book I would write if I was hanging out with my girlfriends drinking boxed wine and had any kind of book writing talent. It's ridiculously funny, romantic, heartfelt and sexy at the same time. Sometimes the humour was slapstick in style, imagine a overly endowed woman with super long nails trying to retrieve her wig, other times it seemed more satirical and at points was just plain random (Why a giraffe?). Throughout the entire book the humour is goofy, dirty in a silly, 12 year old boy way and full of hilarious pop culture references like Snuffleupagus and Hermie the Elf who wants to be a dentist. Rena, our protagonists' career ruining book, Pirate Dave and His Randy Adventures, includes some seriously warp passages of paranormal romance and what may be the most comprehensive collection of pee your pants funny purple prose and penis euphemisms. (My personal favourite “pork sword”.)
Just because How Hard Can in Be is funny does not mean it was poorly written. Although I felt the story began a bit slowly, it didn't take long for it things to pick up and I was soon laughing out loud, rooting for the team of misfit women and hoping there'd be another steamy scene (which were hot but lost none of the story's playfulness) between Rena and her hot cop, Jack. The relationships between the women, and Rena and her sister particularly, were multidimensional and authentic and plot conflicts didn't seem forced or overly played out.
I'm not going to lie, I don't think this book is for everyone. If you don't see the humour in movies like The Hangover or Bridesmaids, if you've never laughed at a video of some guy getting hit in the junk by a ball or if you're looking for a serious read with dramatic undertones and a message of deep social and political import then you will probably hate this book. However, if you're looking for a brilliantly written, hot mess of hilarious shenanigans that will make you laugh until you pee, root for the underdogs and swoon like a Southern Belle then you're going to love How Hard Can It Be. Go read it!!
4.5 stars
Arc provided by NetGalley.
July 27, 2025
4.5 stars
Omg this book was amazing, funny, and I just fell in love with all the characters!! The first half was a bit slow (that’s why I gave 4.5 stars instead of 5) But after about 50 percent in it took off and I was not able to put it down. It was one of those “ one more chapter then one more chapter” and so forth This book is the first in a new series for me. There are 3 books in this series so far and I own them all already. (I am OCD, if I have one book of a series then I have to purchase the entire series) will definitely read the next one in this series. I highly recommend you read this if you enjoy crazy characters and a lot of humor and a bit of romance.
Omg this book was amazing, funny, and I just fell in love with all the characters!! The first half was a bit slow (that’s why I gave 4.5 stars instead of 5) But after about 50 percent in it took off and I was not able to put it down. It was one of those “ one more chapter then one more chapter” and so forth This book is the first in a new series for me. There are 3 books in this series so far and I own them all already. (I am OCD, if I have one book of a series then I have to purchase the entire series) will definitely read the next one in this series. I highly recommend you read this if you enjoy crazy characters and a lot of humor and a bit of romance.
November 26, 2012
I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of How Hard Can It Be? by Robyn Peterman. This book pulls you in from the beginning, when we meet Rena Gunderschlict- our perfectly flawed heroine (we all have a little Rena in us) - who is searching for something more than being stuck crunching numbers as an accountant. Rena lands herself smack in the middle of a wildly funny and amazingly talented group of "porno writing grannies," when she decides to become a romance novelist herself. The adventure that ensues is filled with witty writing and plot twists and turns that take us on a journey of love, self-discovery and acceptance. There are plenty of hot and steamy scenes that make this romance a 'can't put down' page turner. The love story is balanced with Rena's race to save not only herself, but her newfound best friends in one of the most entertaining reads I've had the pleasure to encounter in a while. I laughed. I cried. And I found the story and its' characters to have layers, revealed in tender moments peppered subtly throughout the book, that doesn't break pace with the intensely laugh-out loud side of this tale. How Hard Can It Be? is definitely an outrageous romp, one that shouldn't be missed.
June 26, 2018
LMAO funny!!!!! How Hard Can It Be? by Robyn Peterman is a riot of laughs. This chick-lit successfully pulls all the best punches. The story includes a crazy aunt who sees Martians, post-menopausal woman who meet regularly to discuss sex toys, an irritatingly perfect little sister, hard and sexy butts, and a hot alpha hero.
The heroine, Rena, loves her job as a CPA crunching numbers but she feels she is missing something in her life. Rena follows Oprah’s advice to visualize and succeed by going after new and exciting dreams to spice up her life. Unfortunately, the spice she finds is a whole lot of trouble.
Peterman created characters I could relate to and fall in love with. The friendships are a joy to read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is in need of a good laugh. I simply could not put this book down. Those who enjoy the Stephanie Plum series will get a kick out of this book.
The heroine, Rena, loves her job as a CPA crunching numbers but she feels she is missing something in her life. Rena follows Oprah’s advice to visualize and succeed by going after new and exciting dreams to spice up her life. Unfortunately, the spice she finds is a whole lot of trouble.
Peterman created characters I could relate to and fall in love with. The friendships are a joy to read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is in need of a good laugh. I simply could not put this book down. Those who enjoy the Stephanie Plum series will get a kick out of this book.
January 16, 2013
I too got an early look at this book. This is not your average romance, but yet is definitely a romance. More it is just a really funny, farcical look at the heroine's madcap attempts to write a romance. She has taken my craft and illuminated the hilarious. I thank her for reminding me not to get caught up too much in my own drama.
Peterman shows her great comedic talent in this work, but also that she is able to offer it all in her books. There is a wicked villainess, a not so helpful best friend, a hottie of a hero, not to mention roadblocks and pitfalls that will have you calling out "Oh no," in the middle of laughing.
Here's my one warning to potential readers. Go to the bathroom before you start reading. It will cut down on the number of trips you'll have to make later.
Peterman shows her great comedic talent in this work, but also that she is able to offer it all in her books. There is a wicked villainess, a not so helpful best friend, a hottie of a hero, not to mention roadblocks and pitfalls that will have you calling out "Oh no," in the middle of laughing.
Here's my one warning to potential readers. Go to the bathroom before you start reading. It will cut down on the number of trips you'll have to make later.
April 29, 2013
How Hard Can It Be by Robyn Perterman is the screwball romantic comedy of the year. Peterman pens magic as readers are whisked away on what has to be the most bizarre, surprising, and improbable romance. Peterman opens the doors to Phallus101, introducing readers to a vocabulary like no other. This baby will have you seeking medical attention for gelastic seizures or trolling the Depends isle at your local pharmacy. Readers have no idea what is in store for them with this doozy. You won't believe until you read. There is a surprise on every page, catapulting readers into a world unlike any they have ever dared to venture. I highly recommend this book, I promise you, you will not find its equal.
February 12, 2013
This book was seriously hilarious! Robyn Peterman nailed it with this one. It's been a long time since I laughed so hard out loud while reading a book :) Rena is a unique, wile character with a more words for the male anatomy than I thought were possible. I don't want to give anything away, I hate spoiler reviews! But I just want to say that if you have a sense of humor, if you enjoy shooting pop out of your nose, pee your pants it's so funny kind of humor, you'll want to pick this book up. Can't wait to see what Ms. Peterman has up her sleeve next. P.S. I stayed up all night last night finishing this book. My eyes felt like they might bleed, I was so tired! ha!
January 1, 2013
I had a chance to beta-read this and I can only say it's the funniest damn thing I've ever read. Literally. I mean pee-your-pants, snort-coke-on-your-computer funny. My husband thought I was having a fit when I read it, then laughed himself when I read him part of it. Some people may be offended by the subject matter, but if they just get over themselves and enjoy it for the ribald comedy it is, they'll love it.
This book comes out mid-January and I'm so excited to see how much people will love it. Peterman is a new author, but I think she has a blinding, stellar future ahead of her. Can't wait to read book 2!
This book comes out mid-January and I'm so excited to see how much people will love it. Peterman is a new author, but I think she has a blinding, stellar future ahead of her. Can't wait to read book 2!
November 18, 2012
Loved this book. Funniest romantic comedy I've read since the first Stephanie Plum book. Janet Evanovich had better watch her six,'cause Robyn's writing is laugh-out-loud, snort-Pepsi-out-your-nose funny. Can't wait for the next book -- I hear the Abominable Snowman is involved.
February 2, 2013
Laugh out loud funny. I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end.
January 5, 2013
Read all my reviews at: http://ssbookfanatics.blogspot.com
ARC received from Kensington via NetGalley
To be published on 17 January 2013
Rena Gunderschlict shares an apartment with her best friend, Kristy, and is as determined as they come. If she wants something, nothing, not even the lack of experience will stop her in any way, shape or form. How hard can it be to become a weather girl? Do people really study for this? Apparently. How on earth was she supposed to know this? After hounding a news station for a solid month straight, all Rena got out of it was a restraining order. Oh, and she made the six o'clock news. She's a qualified accountant, loves numbers of course, but she doesn't fair too well in the typical 'accountant' office environment. She needs to try her hand at something exciting. Of course, as the weather girl stint didn't go according to plan, she's decided she'll become an author! Again, how hard can it be? The icing on the cake will be meeting New York Times Bestselling author, Evangeline O'Hara. Where she finds herself though, is in a poorly lit meeting room in the library downtown. She's surrounded by what look like seventy-year-old ladies. She first meets Sue, who goes by the name Shoshanna LeHump - a firecracker of note with a mouth to match - and then, Nancy, Poppy Harriet, Joanne and Cecil - who's really, Fred. Rena feels like she's in the twilight zone and she should surely make a run for it. Too late, Evangeline O'Hara walks in. Rena is gobsmacked. What she sees astounds her. Evangeline is stick thin, has the most humongous breasts and has had more plastic surgery done to practically every part of her body than all of Hollywood put together. To be able to experience how this apparition is described, you will most certainly have to read the book. Not in a million years could I do a description justice, suffice it to say - I'm still laughing. I think I'll laugh every time I think of this book.
Rena finds out from ladies that Evangeline (the Viper) has been blackmailing them for years, and hasn't written one single book herself. She has something on everyone, and threatens to expose them if they do not hand over every single story they've written or write. Rena is shocked, but it's time for action. If she gets nothing else in her life right, she will help these crazy ladies. It's time she put her 'non-author' skills to work. By now she has no choice, as the Viper is blackmailing her as well with the weather girl/restraining order embarrassment. The story she concocts is beyond anyone's imagination, is pure drivel, and one that includes a warlock vampire, cojoined sisters, midgets and yes, everything else you would never think possible. Eventually, the ladies including Fred pitch in and add their own twists to the story. Evangeline is handed so much verbal garbage by Rena in explanation for her story with the best part being that the Viper believes it! This is exactly what they needed. All of their efforts will ultimately be the Viper's downfall.
You also meet Jack Careena, the cop Rena falls hard for, but it goes both ways. The second she sees him, she refers to him as her husband-to-be. In her head that is. What actually happened is that the first time she saw him and worked up the guts to talk to him, he turned out to be the cop who had no choice but to arrest her for breaking her restraining order. Unfreakingbelievable! What ultimately happens with these two is that they have a sizzling romance - not without some issues. This story is spicy-spicy-spicy, but it all has its place in this book. I loved it all, even the elaborate story Rena came up with, and although quite OTT and ewww at times as it's meant to be, it was hilarious and laugh out loud. The whole book was laugh out loud. Yes, it's far fetched, but really, it's fiction. As far as I'm concerned, this is the funniest book I've read... ever! And, it's a book I will read again. It's beyond crazy and hectic, and it's full of so many twists and angles you will never be bored - not even once. Honestly, it's two days later and I'm still laughing my head off. I loved every single bit of humour that Ms. Peterman injected into this book, so much so, I'd love to live in this book, this world, because when things go wrong for Rena they really go wrong, but when they go right, life is just fabulous. I can't even elaborate enough about all the nutty things that happen in this book. Rena's aunt alone with people in her TV, and martians in her toilet, and her Big Foot meetings is just way beyond my imagination, but here it all is. All neatly and hilariously packaged in 'How Hard Can It Be?' I've said this before, but will say it again for good measure, I'm very open minded so this kind of 'warped' humour suits me perfectly. I spend most of my life reading fairly serious and gut wrenching books, and when a gem of a book such as this one comes along, it almost feels like I've spent a day at a Spa and waltzed out floating on air. It's a definite stress reliever, and it's a book you should read. I'm sure some people will think it silly and it is, but it's supposed to be and it's a fabulous silly. At the end of the day, it's how it makes you feel that counts, and I feel like it was meant to come my way. I needed an injection of some sort, and I now know that although I'm someone who laughs a heck of a lot, I needed this kind of over, above and beyond kind of laughter.
Don't think that it's just all laughs, because you'd be wrong. This caters for a wonderful romance, it involves peoples lives, family and friendship. I must share with you that when I finished this book yesterday, I left a comment on Goodreads and it went like this: Review to follow. I can't write it as yet, as I'm still too darn busy laughing my head off. This is the most hilarious book I've read... ever! It deserves more than 5 stars. I was fortunate enough to receive a message from the author who saw this. I'm sure the author won't mind if I share it.
The message was titled: Thanks for making my day!
message: Sandra, reading your review of my book made me giggle! I'm delighted you enjoyed it and you have made my day! Hope you had a Happy New Year and thanks again! Robyn
Yep, I eeped and proceeded to talk (type) Robyn's ears off. Something I mentioned in my reply was that this book should be made into a movie, as I'd buy the DVD and watch it continuously. So, I've been told that 'How Hard Can It Be?' has indeed been optioned for a movie, and the author is currently writing the script. Another bit of good news which has made me very happy, is that there is going to be a sequel. I, for one, can't wait. So, in my opinion, this was brilliant and this author got it all right. Every single aspect of this book. It's one of my favourites, and my year has started off just great!
As I'd mentioned that this one deserved, as far as I'm concerned, more than 5 stars, it's earned a spot in my '2013 favourites' shelf.
ARC received from Kensington via NetGalley
To be published on 17 January 2013
Rena Gunderschlict shares an apartment with her best friend, Kristy, and is as determined as they come. If she wants something, nothing, not even the lack of experience will stop her in any way, shape or form. How hard can it be to become a weather girl? Do people really study for this? Apparently. How on earth was she supposed to know this? After hounding a news station for a solid month straight, all Rena got out of it was a restraining order. Oh, and she made the six o'clock news. She's a qualified accountant, loves numbers of course, but she doesn't fair too well in the typical 'accountant' office environment. She needs to try her hand at something exciting. Of course, as the weather girl stint didn't go according to plan, she's decided she'll become an author! Again, how hard can it be? The icing on the cake will be meeting New York Times Bestselling author, Evangeline O'Hara. Where she finds herself though, is in a poorly lit meeting room in the library downtown. She's surrounded by what look like seventy-year-old ladies. She first meets Sue, who goes by the name Shoshanna LeHump - a firecracker of note with a mouth to match - and then, Nancy, Poppy Harriet, Joanne and Cecil - who's really, Fred. Rena feels like she's in the twilight zone and she should surely make a run for it. Too late, Evangeline O'Hara walks in. Rena is gobsmacked. What she sees astounds her. Evangeline is stick thin, has the most humongous breasts and has had more plastic surgery done to practically every part of her body than all of Hollywood put together. To be able to experience how this apparition is described, you will most certainly have to read the book. Not in a million years could I do a description justice, suffice it to say - I'm still laughing. I think I'll laugh every time I think of this book.
Rena finds out from ladies that Evangeline (the Viper) has been blackmailing them for years, and hasn't written one single book herself. She has something on everyone, and threatens to expose them if they do not hand over every single story they've written or write. Rena is shocked, but it's time for action. If she gets nothing else in her life right, she will help these crazy ladies. It's time she put her 'non-author' skills to work. By now she has no choice, as the Viper is blackmailing her as well with the weather girl/restraining order embarrassment. The story she concocts is beyond anyone's imagination, is pure drivel, and one that includes a warlock vampire, cojoined sisters, midgets and yes, everything else you would never think possible. Eventually, the ladies including Fred pitch in and add their own twists to the story. Evangeline is handed so much verbal garbage by Rena in explanation for her story with the best part being that the Viper believes it! This is exactly what they needed. All of their efforts will ultimately be the Viper's downfall.
You also meet Jack Careena, the cop Rena falls hard for, but it goes both ways. The second she sees him, she refers to him as her husband-to-be. In her head that is. What actually happened is that the first time she saw him and worked up the guts to talk to him, he turned out to be the cop who had no choice but to arrest her for breaking her restraining order. Unfreakingbelievable! What ultimately happens with these two is that they have a sizzling romance - not without some issues. This story is spicy-spicy-spicy, but it all has its place in this book. I loved it all, even the elaborate story Rena came up with, and although quite OTT and ewww at times as it's meant to be, it was hilarious and laugh out loud. The whole book was laugh out loud. Yes, it's far fetched, but really, it's fiction. As far as I'm concerned, this is the funniest book I've read... ever! And, it's a book I will read again. It's beyond crazy and hectic, and it's full of so many twists and angles you will never be bored - not even once. Honestly, it's two days later and I'm still laughing my head off. I loved every single bit of humour that Ms. Peterman injected into this book, so much so, I'd love to live in this book, this world, because when things go wrong for Rena they really go wrong, but when they go right, life is just fabulous. I can't even elaborate enough about all the nutty things that happen in this book. Rena's aunt alone with people in her TV, and martians in her toilet, and her Big Foot meetings is just way beyond my imagination, but here it all is. All neatly and hilariously packaged in 'How Hard Can It Be?' I've said this before, but will say it again for good measure, I'm very open minded so this kind of 'warped' humour suits me perfectly. I spend most of my life reading fairly serious and gut wrenching books, and when a gem of a book such as this one comes along, it almost feels like I've spent a day at a Spa and waltzed out floating on air. It's a definite stress reliever, and it's a book you should read. I'm sure some people will think it silly and it is, but it's supposed to be and it's a fabulous silly. At the end of the day, it's how it makes you feel that counts, and I feel like it was meant to come my way. I needed an injection of some sort, and I now know that although I'm someone who laughs a heck of a lot, I needed this kind of over, above and beyond kind of laughter.
Don't think that it's just all laughs, because you'd be wrong. This caters for a wonderful romance, it involves peoples lives, family and friendship. I must share with you that when I finished this book yesterday, I left a comment on Goodreads and it went like this: Review to follow. I can't write it as yet, as I'm still too darn busy laughing my head off. This is the most hilarious book I've read... ever! It deserves more than 5 stars. I was fortunate enough to receive a message from the author who saw this. I'm sure the author won't mind if I share it.
The message was titled: Thanks for making my day!
message: Sandra, reading your review of my book made me giggle! I'm delighted you enjoyed it and you have made my day! Hope you had a Happy New Year and thanks again! Robyn
Yep, I eeped and proceeded to talk (type) Robyn's ears off. Something I mentioned in my reply was that this book should be made into a movie, as I'd buy the DVD and watch it continuously. So, I've been told that 'How Hard Can It Be?' has indeed been optioned for a movie, and the author is currently writing the script. Another bit of good news which has made me very happy, is that there is going to be a sequel. I, for one, can't wait. So, in my opinion, this was brilliant and this author got it all right. Every single aspect of this book. It's one of my favourites, and my year has started off just great!
As I'd mentioned that this one deserved, as far as I'm concerned, more than 5 stars, it's earned a spot in my '2013 favourites' shelf.
March 11, 2013
Review also posted at
“This romantic comedy is simply brilliant! Ms. Peterman had me LMFAO…[she] is amazing in bringing in good humor, friendship and good romance”. ~Under The Covers
This romantic comedy is simply brilliant! Ms. Peterman had me LMFAO. With words like viper bitch whore from hell, sticky hooker, tally whacker, skin flute and pork sword, it is just hard not to get hooked on this book. Ms. Peterman is amazing in bringing in good humor, friendship and good romance.
After getting caught in a web of lies, Rena is blackmailed by a well known romance writer to write a novel only to claim it as her own. Welcome to the world of plagiarism. Without a choice, Rena tries her luck in the world of writing. After all, she has not been happy at her current job plus, How Hard Can It BE, right? She actually does well sort of, with her far fetch story line. But Rena will not go out without a fight. She has plans to reveal this fraud not only for herself but to save her elderly friends who are also being blackmailed.
This book is full of funny banters, sexual jokes/innuendos, elderly characters that have mouths like a sailor and a sexy cop hero. Oh, and I cannot forget the hero from the novel within the novel…Pirate Dave. His story alone had my cheeks hurt from grinning hard while reading about him. There was even an appearance from Anderson Cooper, and let me tell you, I can totally see him playing the role. It was just pure comedy.
If you are looking for a good funny read with a hint of romance, this is the book for you.
*Review copy provided by author
“This romantic comedy is simply brilliant! Ms. Peterman had me LMFAO…[she] is amazing in bringing in good humor, friendship and good romance”. ~Under The Covers
This romantic comedy is simply brilliant! Ms. Peterman had me LMFAO. With words like viper bitch whore from hell, sticky hooker, tally whacker, skin flute and pork sword, it is just hard not to get hooked on this book. Ms. Peterman is amazing in bringing in good humor, friendship and good romance.
After getting caught in a web of lies, Rena is blackmailed by a well known romance writer to write a novel only to claim it as her own. Welcome to the world of plagiarism. Without a choice, Rena tries her luck in the world of writing. After all, she has not been happy at her current job plus, How Hard Can It BE, right? She actually does well sort of, with her far fetch story line. But Rena will not go out without a fight. She has plans to reveal this fraud not only for herself but to save her elderly friends who are also being blackmailed.
This book is full of funny banters, sexual jokes/innuendos, elderly characters that have mouths like a sailor and a sexy cop hero. Oh, and I cannot forget the hero from the novel within the novel…Pirate Dave. His story alone had my cheeks hurt from grinning hard while reading about him. There was even an appearance from Anderson Cooper, and let me tell you, I can totally see him playing the role. It was just pure comedy.
If you are looking for a good funny read with a hint of romance, this is the book for you.
*Review copy provided by author
February 9, 2013
I have to be completely honest and tell you that Robyn Peterman is my friend. One of those friends that you can not see for 10 years and pick up right where you left off. A real friend. So stop reading if you think that fact discounts my opinion. BUT before you go...anyone who has a creative friend will attest that it's absolutely terrifying to read the work of a friend.
In this case, I got lucky. This is an absolutely entertaining and ridiculous book. Perfect bath tub/beach/body of water book. This book is the perfect antidote to the disappointment I had reading the latest Stephanie Plum book. (I put that book down realizing that I am done with Ms. Plum, her endless dance between Joe and Ranger, and her inability to keep a car in one piece). If you like Evanovich, skip # 19 and read this book instead.
I do have one problem with "How Hard Can it Be?". The romance of the main character is exactly the kind that irritates the crap out of me...love at first sight for two gorgeous people and mind blowing sex from the get go...but it's forgivable as the characters are likeable and I'm happy for anyone who is having mind blowing sex. Even if they are fictional.
If I didn't know the author, I probably would have given it 4 stars because I wouldn't want you to know how much I enjoy entertaining and ridiculous books. I like to pretend that I am a serious reader* of serious books.
*As long as I'm coming clean, I will tell you that I got bored six pages into Wolf Hall and gave up on it.
In this case, I got lucky. This is an absolutely entertaining and ridiculous book. Perfect bath tub/beach/body of water book. This book is the perfect antidote to the disappointment I had reading the latest Stephanie Plum book. (I put that book down realizing that I am done with Ms. Plum, her endless dance between Joe and Ranger, and her inability to keep a car in one piece). If you like Evanovich, skip # 19 and read this book instead.
I do have one problem with "How Hard Can it Be?". The romance of the main character is exactly the kind that irritates the crap out of me...love at first sight for two gorgeous people and mind blowing sex from the get go...but it's forgivable as the characters are likeable and I'm happy for anyone who is having mind blowing sex. Even if they are fictional.
If I didn't know the author, I probably would have given it 4 stars because I wouldn't want you to know how much I enjoy entertaining and ridiculous books. I like to pretend that I am a serious reader* of serious books.
*As long as I'm coming clean, I will tell you that I got bored six pages into Wolf Hall and gave up on it.
January 1, 2013
"How Hard Can It Be" is romantic comedy at it's finest. Better than finest. I'd put off reading it because the synopsis didn't really draw me in, but holy crap do I wish I'd read it sooner! I can't remember the last book I read that made me laugh quite so much and so loudly. I didn't think anyone could use the f-bomb more than me, and I was pleasantly surprised (yes, this impresses me). Even with all the humor, profanity and multitude of names for a man's junk, there were still moments in the book that moved me to tears. I hope Ms. Peterman is as prolific in publishing as she is with her terms for the pork sword - can't wait for the next book!
January 22, 2013
Although I am no expert in romance novels - in fact, this is my first foray into the genre - How Hard Can It Be is a great weekend read. Fun, madcap, and ingratiatingly bizarre, Rena jumps from one unbelievable scene to the next offering a running commentary on the people she meets and crafting a perverse tale about Pirate Dave. How Hard Can It Be is a laugh-out-loud solution to the winter doldrums.
December 5, 2014
4 SOLID STARS
This book cracked me up! It is so funny, so good, so fresh- it was just what I needed. It is sweet, sexy, and totally loveable. It is like hanging out with your crazy best friend. Oh, and the plot was great too! It isn't a deep thinking book but it is wonderful for what it is, which is a feel-good hilarious romantic-comedy. **LOVE**
This book cracked me up! It is so funny, so good, so fresh- it was just what I needed. It is sweet, sexy, and totally loveable. It is like hanging out with your crazy best friend. Oh, and the plot was great too! It isn't a deep thinking book but it is wonderful for what it is, which is a feel-good hilarious romantic-comedy. **LOVE**
July 22, 2013
I won this book and finally sat down to read it, omg I couldnt stop laughing through the whole thing. I read this in one day, it was so funny I just kept reading. It was such a great story I read pieces to my husband and he was even laughing, till he was like im funny too hurry up and finish that book! lol I look forward to more from this author shes wonderful.
January 21, 2013
This made me laugh out loud! Porno writing senior citizens? New names for manly body parts? A heroine and hero that you can root for? ABSOLUTELY!!!! And then add in some wacky family members and you have all the makings for a madcap romp!!!
February 24, 2013
I'm dying laughing. This book is fantastic!
February 15, 2013
First off this book was really good and I laughed so hard because some of things I read I had to look around to see if anybody noticed me reading this book because right off the beginning they were talking about hardcore sex, handcuffs and porn. I couldn't believe some of the stuff that was in the book. It kept it really interesting and it sparked my interest to keep reading it to see what happens to the characters in the book.
Rena the main character who is a accountant that tried a gig at becoming a meteorologist. Well that ended with Rena getting arrested and isn't allowed in the building where you tape the weather. So she decides to go to a meeting where she meets authors that have written tons of books. When she shows up the authors end up being middle aged woman that love talking about cooking and porn all in the same sentence. When I met the characters of these woman I was laughing so hard or had that shocked look on my face when they would say some very sexual things that I have only read in Cosmo or on the Internet. I was also wishing those friends were my friends because they would be so much fun to be around. She tells the ladies that she is a writer that is writing a book and she is hoping to meet this famous author Evangeline O'Hara at the meeting. The ladies almost fell over because they were calling her every name in the book and that she likes to steal there book ideas. The Ladies tell Rena that they would tell her ideas for the books that they were going to write and she would trick them into telling the whole story. She would have the books published under her name and the ladies wouldn't end up getting credit for any of the books being sold. So they thought it would be fun to trick her and get her to not be an author anymore. Evangeline shows up to the meeting and they get to talking but when she sees Rena she sees new meat. So she ask Rena to tell her what story she is writing and her assistant starts writing everything down and then she ask Rena if she would like to come over to her house and help her write the book and then she will have it publish. The girls think it's the greatest idea because it will get her to look like a fool and nobody will buy her books again. Well along with the whole plan Rena gets arrested because she goes back to the building that she isn't allowed in to deliver a package for Evangeline. On her way in she notices a hot guy that she would love to have as her husband. She ends up talking to him and he ask her a couple of question saying he really hopes she isn't Rena because if she is he is going to have to arrest her because she is violating her restraining order. He ends up being a cop named Jack. After Rena gets arrested everything goes down hill and up hill for her throughout the whole story.
I loved this book and thought it was really good. I didn't want it to end and I wanted it to keep going. I was upset when it ended and wanted to throw my nook. If you loved Fifty Shades of Gray you will love this book but minus all the S and M.
Rena the main character who is a accountant that tried a gig at becoming a meteorologist. Well that ended with Rena getting arrested and isn't allowed in the building where you tape the weather. So she decides to go to a meeting where she meets authors that have written tons of books. When she shows up the authors end up being middle aged woman that love talking about cooking and porn all in the same sentence. When I met the characters of these woman I was laughing so hard or had that shocked look on my face when they would say some very sexual things that I have only read in Cosmo or on the Internet. I was also wishing those friends were my friends because they would be so much fun to be around. She tells the ladies that she is a writer that is writing a book and she is hoping to meet this famous author Evangeline O'Hara at the meeting. The ladies almost fell over because they were calling her every name in the book and that she likes to steal there book ideas. The Ladies tell Rena that they would tell her ideas for the books that they were going to write and she would trick them into telling the whole story. She would have the books published under her name and the ladies wouldn't end up getting credit for any of the books being sold. So they thought it would be fun to trick her and get her to not be an author anymore. Evangeline shows up to the meeting and they get to talking but when she sees Rena she sees new meat. So she ask Rena to tell her what story she is writing and her assistant starts writing everything down and then she ask Rena if she would like to come over to her house and help her write the book and then she will have it publish. The girls think it's the greatest idea because it will get her to look like a fool and nobody will buy her books again. Well along with the whole plan Rena gets arrested because she goes back to the building that she isn't allowed in to deliver a package for Evangeline. On her way in she notices a hot guy that she would love to have as her husband. She ends up talking to him and he ask her a couple of question saying he really hopes she isn't Rena because if she is he is going to have to arrest her because she is violating her restraining order. He ends up being a cop named Jack. After Rena gets arrested everything goes down hill and up hill for her throughout the whole story.
I loved this book and thought it was really good. I didn't want it to end and I wanted it to keep going. I was upset when it ended and wanted to throw my nook. If you loved Fifty Shades of Gray you will love this book but minus all the S and M.
September 26, 2013
So I came across a free book called Pirate Dave & His Randy Adventures (Career Ending Romance Spoof) By Robyn Peterman. I picked it up because who puts “career ending” in the title of a book? I read the first page, and I laughed so hard I thought I was going to pee my pants!
Of course I told all my friends about this hilarious book. One of them said that Pirate Dave was actually the product of Robyn Peterman’s real novel, How Hard Can It Be? (cause heaven forbid I read a prologue – I just started right in on chapter 1!!). The summary I got from my friend was “Rena and her gang of porno grannies from a writers group set out to destroy the Viper Bitch (Evangeline O’Hare–the best selling author) who steals the stories they write.” So I slammed breaks on Pirate Dave and set out to read How Hard Can It Be? I mean really, porno grannies? I had to read this first!
Vulgar and snarky, I loved every word! You know those missteps you make in life and go “Doh!” Well, Rena makes hers on a much larger scale… and occasionally the 6 O’clock news. After her cluster of an attempt to become a weather girl, she sets out to become a writer. She does have a great “nothing can stop me” attitude!! However, she finds herself as Evangeline’s next target when she comes up with the idea for Pirate Dave. It turns into a challenge to see how much crap she can shove at Evangeline in hopes of ending her career.
As she becomes intertwined with this tight-nit writers group, she realizes there is more to the story of porno writing grannies vs. viper bitch. How far will Rena go to take down this crazy bitch and set her new friends free? Can she keep the Fuzz off her tail long enough to make things right?
If you’re in the mood for something funny and light, this is a great choice!! How Hard Can It Be? is the first book in the Handcuffs and Happily Ever Afters series.
Of course I told all my friends about this hilarious book. One of them said that Pirate Dave was actually the product of Robyn Peterman’s real novel, How Hard Can It Be? (cause heaven forbid I read a prologue – I just started right in on chapter 1!!). The summary I got from my friend was “Rena and her gang of porno grannies from a writers group set out to destroy the Viper Bitch (Evangeline O’Hare–the best selling author) who steals the stories they write.” So I slammed breaks on Pirate Dave and set out to read How Hard Can It Be? I mean really, porno grannies? I had to read this first!
Vulgar and snarky, I loved every word! You know those missteps you make in life and go “Doh!” Well, Rena makes hers on a much larger scale… and occasionally the 6 O’clock news. After her cluster of an attempt to become a weather girl, she sets out to become a writer. She does have a great “nothing can stop me” attitude!! However, she finds herself as Evangeline’s next target when she comes up with the idea for Pirate Dave. It turns into a challenge to see how much crap she can shove at Evangeline in hopes of ending her career.
As she becomes intertwined with this tight-nit writers group, she realizes there is more to the story of porno writing grannies vs. viper bitch. How far will Rena go to take down this crazy bitch and set her new friends free? Can she keep the Fuzz off her tail long enough to make things right?
If you’re in the mood for something funny and light, this is a great choice!! How Hard Can It Be? is the first book in the Handcuffs and Happily Ever Afters series.
February 20, 2013
From Lilac Wolf and Stuff
Be prepared to laugh your a** off!
The main character decides to take a break from her CPA world and try writing a romance novel. How hard could it be, right? She meets a wonderful group of old ladies, and turns beet red as they talk about sex, s&m, and so on as if they were talking about their grocery list. Then enters the evil Evangeline, who has a huge career as a romance novelist. But it turns out she has stolen everything she has ever written. The only thing she's good at is digging up dirt and using it against people to get her way.
Later on meet the neighbor they name "Mr. Asstastic." See if she can actually take down Evangeline with her "pile of confusing, offensive, unreadable s**t." Can she save her new friends and still get the guy?
It's a silly book, and it won't be winning the Pulitzer, but god it was fun! I laughed so much.
The best part of this book was the absolutely horrible trashy novel the main character writes for the evil...ummm...woman. It's so horrible that all you can do is laugh, especially at all the words for penis she comes up with. "Skin flute, pork sword, love muscle..."
Truly a pick-me-up book. But the story, that is included, really is offensive and disgusting, but knowing why she was writing it made it that much funnier.
Be prepared to laugh your a** off!
The main character decides to take a break from her CPA world and try writing a romance novel. How hard could it be, right? She meets a wonderful group of old ladies, and turns beet red as they talk about sex, s&m, and so on as if they were talking about their grocery list. Then enters the evil Evangeline, who has a huge career as a romance novelist. But it turns out she has stolen everything she has ever written. The only thing she's good at is digging up dirt and using it against people to get her way.
Later on meet the neighbor they name "Mr. Asstastic." See if she can actually take down Evangeline with her "pile of confusing, offensive, unreadable s**t." Can she save her new friends and still get the guy?
It's a silly book, and it won't be winning the Pulitzer, but god it was fun! I laughed so much.
The best part of this book was the absolutely horrible trashy novel the main character writes for the evil...ummm...woman. It's so horrible that all you can do is laugh, especially at all the words for penis she comes up with. "Skin flute, pork sword, love muscle..."
Truly a pick-me-up book. But the story, that is included, really is offensive and disgusting, but knowing why she was writing it made it that much funnier.
July 31, 2013
Robyn Peterman's novel "How Hard Can It Be?" is a delightfully entertaining read. Ms. Peterman has created a unique and loveable cast of characters. Well, most of them are loveable...you gotta have a villainess. The heroine is Rena, a scatter-brained but super hot accountant-turned-romance writer. Rena joins forces, quite by accident, with a group of foul-mouthed, porno-writing grannies to destroy the evil Evangeline O'Hara. Evangeline is a best-selling romance author who has been blackmailing other writers for years and stealing their ideas. Rena and her team decide to write 'the worst romance novel ever' and attach Evangeline's name to it, hoping to bring her down in flames. "Pirate Dave and His Randy Adventures" is the outcome of their plan. The novella within the novel is ridiculously foul and funny. The journey that Rena and her friends take is hilarious. Along the way they meet some 'unusual' folks...including Jack, a sexy undercover cop who is determined to use his handcuffs on Rena! Who knew that romance novels could all at once be so hilarious and hot...so sassy and sexy...so laugh-out-loud loveable? Ms. Peterman did. I truly appreciate the fact that "How Hard Can It Be?" affectionately mocks its own genre while paying homage to it. Clever. I smiled all the way through this book. You will too.
March 4, 2013
The only thing that took away from my enjoyment of this book is the constant use of "inner-slut" that Rena used to refer to herself. Any time she thought a naughty thought about Jack, that's it, the "inner-slut" came out. After about 10th time, it got REALLY old. Ok, it got really old after the second time, but I kept hoping that she would stop. She didn't. Instead "inner-slut" was used what felt like every other page, and twice on some.
It bothered me because it almost felt like she was shaming herself for wanting sex, when there is nothing wrong with wanting sex!
Other than that, I absolutely LOVED Rena and Jack! They were over the top, but real at the same time. I have to confess that I'm a bit biased, because Jack really reminded me of someone and their whole interactions really reminded me of our interactions. So yeah, I am biased but I can tell you, instant chemistry like that can happen, and I loved reading about it.
It was also very refreshing to see Rena being aware of her looks, and actually like herself. Too many time I read about characters who spend time agonizing over their this and that, instead of liking themselves.
I think if you like over the top humor with your romance, you will love this book. I was literally crying from laughter.
It bothered me because it almost felt like she was shaming herself for wanting sex, when there is nothing wrong with wanting sex!
Other than that, I absolutely LOVED Rena and Jack! They were over the top, but real at the same time. I have to confess that I'm a bit biased, because Jack really reminded me of someone and their whole interactions really reminded me of our interactions. So yeah, I am biased but I can tell you, instant chemistry like that can happen, and I loved reading about it.
It was also very refreshing to see Rena being aware of her looks, and actually like herself. Too many time I read about characters who spend time agonizing over their this and that, instead of liking themselves.
I think if you like over the top humor with your romance, you will love this book. I was literally crying from laughter.
March 1, 2013
Oh, wow.
I met Robyn Peterman last weekend at a romance author event, and thought she was very funny, and was delightful to chat with. And so, yeah, I was a little prejudiced to like her book before I read it, but whatever.
I read the book, and I liked it. So there!
There are Porno Grannies, a boyfriend named Jack Snuffleupagus, and a psychotic, blackmailing, pseudo writer that I would like to help cast for the movie version.
And really...if that doesn't make you want to read this book? Crawl back into your cave. There were so many LOL moments in this book, I scared a few little old ladies in the doctor's office waiting room.
I met Robyn Peterman last weekend at a romance author event, and thought she was very funny, and was delightful to chat with. And so, yeah, I was a little prejudiced to like her book before I read it, but whatever.
I read the book, and I liked it. So there!
There are Porno Grannies, a boyfriend named Jack Snuffleupagus, and a psychotic, blackmailing, pseudo writer that I would like to help cast for the movie version.
And really...if that doesn't make you want to read this book? Crawl back into your cave. There were so many LOL moments in this book, I scared a few little old ladies in the doctor's office waiting room.
March 19, 2013
This book started out crazy & just got crazier! At first, I wasn't sure I was going to get into it - but the story & characters just grew on me and before long, I was really laughing out loud at all the insanity!
I liked the book within the book : the story of Pirate Dave and his Randy Adventures!!! And the evil Evangeline - can I just say hilariously disgusting!!!
Great read - I finished it all in one night!
I liked the book within the book : the story of Pirate Dave and his Randy Adventures!!! And the evil Evangeline - can I just say hilariously disgusting!!!
Great read - I finished it all in one night!
April 16, 2013
This is a "laugh-out-loud" romantic comedy! I had it on my Kindle for a while before reading it. I can't believe I waited so long to read it. It took me a few chapters to really get into it but once I did I couldn't put it down. This is the first book I've read by Robyn Peterman but it wont be my last!
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