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I Wished For You
I Wished For You is the eagerly awaited second novel from Amy Huberman whose debut, Hello, Heartbreak, was a massive No 1 bestseller in 2010. Since then Amy has gone on to star in Comedy Central's Threesome and her fan-base is growing all the time.
I Wished For You is the story of Grace who is at that age where there are six weddings a year and the question on everyone's lips is: who's next? She and her boyfriend Robbie seem the perfect fit, but when he unexpectedly goes down on bended knee, Grace freaks out. Cue the mother of all meltdowns.
On top of that, Grace's passion for fashion is not exactly fulfilled by her job - dressing well-to-do ladies with way more money than style. Cue - in her addled state after the bended knee fiasco - losing it in work, with disastrous consequences.
Into Grace's train-wreck of a life comes Verity - ex-Hollywood costume lady and vintage clothing queen. Verity is not called the Vintage Vixen for nothing: she has seen it all and done it all and her life makes Grace's look about as exciting as Songs of Praise. Verity tells Grace that the secret of happiness is to discover her 'heart wish'. If only Grace could work out what her heart's greatest wish really is ...
Amy Huberman is both a star and a trendsetter, but as a writer she is blessed with an earthy, off-beat and irreverent sense of humour which makes her a gifted and original story teller.
Praise for Hello, Heartbreak
'Will have you laughing out loud ... lovely' Cosmopolitan
'Witty, observant and very Bridget Jones-like, this brilliant read is thoroughly enjoyable' Closer magazine
'Like Jane Austen on ecstasy' Sunday Independent
'A funny romantic comedy ... like Bridget Jones on Viagra' Irish Daily Mail
'Fun, bubbly, gutsy and lively' U Magazine
'Tender, romantic and laugh aloud funny' Irish Examiner
'Sharp and sassy' Irish Tatler
'She can really write ... a deserved No 1' Irish Independent
I Wished For You is the story of Grace who is at that age where there are six weddings a year and the question on everyone's lips is: who's next? She and her boyfriend Robbie seem the perfect fit, but when he unexpectedly goes down on bended knee, Grace freaks out. Cue the mother of all meltdowns.
On top of that, Grace's passion for fashion is not exactly fulfilled by her job - dressing well-to-do ladies with way more money than style. Cue - in her addled state after the bended knee fiasco - losing it in work, with disastrous consequences.
Into Grace's train-wreck of a life comes Verity - ex-Hollywood costume lady and vintage clothing queen. Verity is not called the Vintage Vixen for nothing: she has seen it all and done it all and her life makes Grace's look about as exciting as Songs of Praise. Verity tells Grace that the secret of happiness is to discover her 'heart wish'. If only Grace could work out what her heart's greatest wish really is ...
Amy Huberman is both a star and a trendsetter, but as a writer she is blessed with an earthy, off-beat and irreverent sense of humour which makes her a gifted and original story teller.
Praise for Hello, Heartbreak
'Will have you laughing out loud ... lovely' Cosmopolitan
'Witty, observant and very Bridget Jones-like, this brilliant read is thoroughly enjoyable' Closer magazine
'Like Jane Austen on ecstasy' Sunday Independent
'A funny romantic comedy ... like Bridget Jones on Viagra' Irish Daily Mail
'Fun, bubbly, gutsy and lively' U Magazine
'Tender, romantic and laugh aloud funny' Irish Examiner
'Sharp and sassy' Irish Tatler
'She can really write ... a deserved No 1' Irish Independent
432 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
32 people are currently reading
808 people want to read
About the author
Amy Huberman
5 books42 followersHuberman grew up in Cabinteely, south Dublin. She is the middle child of three siblings and the only daughter. Her father Harold was born in London to a Polish Jewish family and her mother Sandra is a native of County Wexford.
She was educated at Loreto College, Foxrock and she took classes in the Betty Ann Norton Drama School. Following school, she attended University College Dublin (UCD) intending to become a social worker but when she found the drama society her career took a different direction.
Amy is best-known in Ireland for her role on RTÉ's drama series The Clinic, which began airing its seventh season in September 2009. She also starred in the BBC television series George Gently and the TV movie Showbands.Her brother, Mark Huberman, is also an actor and worked in films such as Boy Eat Girl and on The Clinic as Kieran Miller.
Her films include Satellites & Meteorites, directed by Rick Larkin, and A Film With Me In It, which was directed by Dylan Moran, both released in 2008.
Amy Huberman's first novel, Hello Heartbreak, was published on 2 July 2009.
She is married to Ireland rugby captain and Leinster player Brian O'Driscoll.
She was educated at Loreto College, Foxrock and she took classes in the Betty Ann Norton Drama School. Following school, she attended University College Dublin (UCD) intending to become a social worker but when she found the drama society her career took a different direction.
Amy is best-known in Ireland for her role on RTÉ's drama series The Clinic, which began airing its seventh season in September 2009. She also starred in the BBC television series George Gently and the TV movie Showbands.Her brother, Mark Huberman, is also an actor and worked in films such as Boy Eat Girl and on The Clinic as Kieran Miller.
Her films include Satellites & Meteorites, directed by Rick Larkin, and A Film With Me In It, which was directed by Dylan Moran, both released in 2008.
Amy Huberman's first novel, Hello Heartbreak, was published on 2 July 2009.
She is married to Ireland rugby captain and Leinster player Brian O'Driscoll.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 25, 2020
This has to have been one of the best books I've ever read. I knew straightaway from Amy's Twitter account that I'd love the humour in this book, and dear God it didn't disappoint.
The story of Grace also seemed somehow very familiar (hello commitment phobe) and I fell in love with her from the first page.
There are, however, some touching and emotional parts, and the will really get to you, making you think about the value of life connected to the events at hand.
One tip: don't read this on the train. People WILL stare at you, and the person opposite will move to another seat.
The story of Grace also seemed somehow very familiar (hello commitment phobe) and I fell in love with her from the first page.
There are, however, some touching and emotional parts, and the will really get to you, making you think about the value of life connected to the events at hand.
One tip: don't read this on the train. People WILL stare at you, and the person opposite will move to another seat.
December 18, 2012
This book is very witty, I laughed out loud so many times! Really recommend it for a little pick-me-up. At first I thought it was taking a bit of a long time to get the plot going, but once I got into it I really couldnt put it down!! Grace, the "heroine" of the novel is very funny and says the things that everyone wants to say out loud sometimes but has more sense not to, makes it all the more enjoyable. Recommend for any girls out there looking for a giggle!
August 5, 2013
I received this book as a GoodReads First Reads Giveaway for an honest review.
I used to love this books. The ones with the quirky, crazy, ADHD girl who is constanly on the go but this book did not have me loving it.
Truthfully Grace, who was addicted to everything romantic except marriage, made me want to stop reading the book. She was as one line in the book says "She rolled her eyes to indicate what a child I was being, which, let's be honest, I was." Grace was such a child throughout this entire book that if I would have rolled my eyes everytime she acted like one I would have never gotten the book read.
When something would be happening in the story, say they might be just going to a resturant. Grace would suddenly launch into a story about some funny happening, or what she deemed funny, that took place years ago. This happened so frequently that I had to go back and reread parts of the book to try and figure out where the here and now started and the story stoped. This was so fustrating to me. I would say at least 25% of the book is past stories that had to relavance as to what was going on right in the now.
The author tired way, way, way to hard to be funny in this book and really it just made it very trying to read.
I also found the talk of all the movies and actress and clothing a bit much. If have not watched the movies and know anything about the actresses then you will be lost...like I was. I feel like i was almost getting a history lesson of the movies and what the actresses wore.
Grace was a selfish character. I couldn't stand the way she treated her friends or her boyfriend. I didn't find anything about her enduring or likeable. Sadly, this book just wasn't what I remember cute love stories being about.
I used to love this books. The ones with the quirky, crazy, ADHD girl who is constanly on the go but this book did not have me loving it.
Truthfully Grace, who was addicted to everything romantic except marriage, made me want to stop reading the book. She was as one line in the book says "She rolled her eyes to indicate what a child I was being, which, let's be honest, I was." Grace was such a child throughout this entire book that if I would have rolled my eyes everytime she acted like one I would have never gotten the book read.
When something would be happening in the story, say they might be just going to a resturant. Grace would suddenly launch into a story about some funny happening, or what she deemed funny, that took place years ago. This happened so frequently that I had to go back and reread parts of the book to try and figure out where the here and now started and the story stoped. This was so fustrating to me. I would say at least 25% of the book is past stories that had to relavance as to what was going on right in the now.
The author tired way, way, way to hard to be funny in this book and really it just made it very trying to read.
I also found the talk of all the movies and actress and clothing a bit much. If have not watched the movies and know anything about the actresses then you will be lost...like I was. I feel like i was almost getting a history lesson of the movies and what the actresses wore.
Grace was a selfish character. I couldn't stand the way she treated her friends or her boyfriend. I didn't find anything about her enduring or likeable. Sadly, this book just wasn't what I remember cute love stories being about.
June 23, 2016
I give this book 4 stars because it really lived up to my expectations of it in humor stakes. It was very funny and a delievred a lot of great laugh out loud moments. The character Grace is very relatable for a lot of young women out in Ireland today, expected to know eevrything and be self assured in life by the age of 30 and want to get married and have children. Instead,Grace just does course after course in college, still trying to figure out what would make her truly happy.
I just wish there had been a better conclusion for Grace and Robbie's story. Instead of just hoping he would do what we all think he would do (himself being a top class kind of man) and take her back into his arms. I wish there had been some sort of conclusion on the wedding day maybe. I would actually really enjoy a sequel, simply because all of the characters are so funny, Lisa, Tanya, Norman, Bette the cat.
Top Notch Read!
I just wish there had been a better conclusion for Grace and Robbie's story. Instead of just hoping he would do what we all think he would do (himself being a top class kind of man) and take her back into his arms. I wish there had been some sort of conclusion on the wedding day maybe. I would actually really enjoy a sequel, simply because all of the characters are so funny, Lisa, Tanya, Norman, Bette the cat.
Top Notch Read!
July 29, 2016
I do not usually give up on a book. I try to read it to the end even if I do not really like it at the beginning, hoping that it will improve on the way. However, I must sadly confess that I put down this book never to pick it up again after about a fifty or so pages. It might be only me, but I felt too forced the over-funny tone. It was as if I were listening to a stand-up comedian. And what might have been fun in a live performance it felt really awkward while being read. I am really sorry about it because I had high hopes about the story after reading the blurb. The plot sounded very promising. Alas, the book failed to fulfil my expectations. So I cannot recommend it to others, I am afraid.
November 2, 2012
Oh how I loved "I Wished For You"! It is a mixture of all my favorite things : chick-lit, vintage, comedy and romance. It's ridiculously funny and perfectly escapist too. A must read!
August 25, 2016
This was fun, and an easy read.
May 20, 2019
Saccharin. A poor mans Marion Keyes!
April 25, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! It made me laugh out loud and I knew a lot of people could relate to some of the issues touched on in the book. I like how it touched on the pressures people felt not being married by 30. Lighthearted, yet deep.
April 22, 2024
For me this is an average read . At first I found it to be a slow tedious read , but as I got further into the book it started to improve .
The book did irritate me with all the actors and actresses name dropped in it , it was distracting and I felt it didn't offer a lot to the story.
The book did irritate me with all the actors and actresses name dropped in it , it was distracting and I felt it didn't offer a lot to the story.
January 7, 2019
An easy read but a little too predictable.
October 23, 2021
Realky good book spoilt but all the profanities
January 26, 2025
It's giving 'Oh My God, What a Complete Aisling' and 'Still Me' by Jojo Moyes.
September 10, 2015
I WISHED FOR YOU is the second novel by Amy Huberman. It tells the story of Grace Harte an almost thirty year-old who is in a comfortable relationship with her boyfriend Robbie, the only problem she has (apart from her job) is that well-meaning friends and family keep asking her when she and Robbie are going to get married. Grace is happy with the status quo, and when it looks like Robbie might actually propose she freaks out.
I can relate to Grace as a character. There comes a time in life when well-meaning friends and family members want to know when you are going to ‘settle down’. I’m pretty sure it’s only a short jump from there to asking about marriage, and then kids. I genuinely love the way that Grace stands up for herself and the fact that she is happy with the way things are – even if she is almost thirty (don’t ask me why certain people seem to think this age is significant) – and she’s not ready for marriage yet. However, I did think Grace’s reaction when she thought Robbie was proposing was a tad OTT to put it mildly. There is a reason behind this which is explained later in the book, but at the time whilst it seemed in character I couldn’t help but feel it leant a tad towards the unrealistic.
For me, the most interesting part of the book begins after Grace’s reaction to the assumed proposal because this is when things start to fall apart. It’s also after this point that we meet the intriguing Verity. I found her a really interesting character as Huberman only reveals enough about her to make her seem real and believable, and even that is done slowly and grudgingly. In a lot of ways Verity acts as a Fairy Godmother to Grace, and remains just as mysterious. The secondary characters in I WISHED FOR YOU really helped to carry the plot, and Grace, to the end of the book. Huberman creates some really strong secondary characters, although there were a couple which felt a bit flat. I loved the relationship between Grace and her sister Tanya, and the relationship between Grace and Bette the cat – it was really quite fun, and amusing to read about.
I WISHED FOR YOU is a good second novel, there are some things which didn’t work for me personally BUT Huberman creates an interesting and engaging story that most people can relate to on some level. There is a lot of drama, and a few twists and turns to keep the plot interesting but you know how it will almost certainly end up pretty early on. These aren’t necessarily bad things, in fact they make the book a quick read. If you’re looking for some chick-lit to indulge yourself with and you’re around thirty – or perhaps older – then you should consider giving this book a try.
I got a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally published on The Flutterby Room.
I can relate to Grace as a character. There comes a time in life when well-meaning friends and family members want to know when you are going to ‘settle down’. I’m pretty sure it’s only a short jump from there to asking about marriage, and then kids. I genuinely love the way that Grace stands up for herself and the fact that she is happy with the way things are – even if she is almost thirty (don’t ask me why certain people seem to think this age is significant) – and she’s not ready for marriage yet. However, I did think Grace’s reaction when she thought Robbie was proposing was a tad OTT to put it mildly. There is a reason behind this which is explained later in the book, but at the time whilst it seemed in character I couldn’t help but feel it leant a tad towards the unrealistic.
For me, the most interesting part of the book begins after Grace’s reaction to the assumed proposal because this is when things start to fall apart. It’s also after this point that we meet the intriguing Verity. I found her a really interesting character as Huberman only reveals enough about her to make her seem real and believable, and even that is done slowly and grudgingly. In a lot of ways Verity acts as a Fairy Godmother to Grace, and remains just as mysterious. The secondary characters in I WISHED FOR YOU really helped to carry the plot, and Grace, to the end of the book. Huberman creates some really strong secondary characters, although there were a couple which felt a bit flat. I loved the relationship between Grace and her sister Tanya, and the relationship between Grace and Bette the cat – it was really quite fun, and amusing to read about.
I WISHED FOR YOU is a good second novel, there are some things which didn’t work for me personally BUT Huberman creates an interesting and engaging story that most people can relate to on some level. There is a lot of drama, and a few twists and turns to keep the plot interesting but you know how it will almost certainly end up pretty early on. These aren’t necessarily bad things, in fact they make the book a quick read. If you’re looking for some chick-lit to indulge yourself with and you’re around thirty – or perhaps older – then you should consider giving this book a try.
I got a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally published on The Flutterby Room.
September 18, 2013
First of all - I received this book as a giveaway from the publisher Penguin Ireland! Quite an experience for me actually as it is the first giveaway I've won. So I really was much excited about getting it.
Now about the book itself. A light but very witty piece of literature. I liked the characters, because they are well-drawn, memorable, bright. Not only Grace but all of them. i especially liked Verity - ninety-something year old woman in Hollywood dresses playing Alice in Wonderland is something you know :) .
The plot isn't very intriguing, though there are some unexpected moments. BUT the inner world of Grace is shown in a very clear and profound way, the reader can see the development of her character, her inner changes.
What I like most is the Golden Era of Hollywood air about this book. As grace is quite keen on that period you will see the names of Marylin Monroe, Grace Kelly, Molly Keats , Elizabeth Taylor in every chapter. and all those descriptions of the vintage clothes in Verity's shop! God, wish I could try at least one of them on! ;) This really creates a special mood which is very important for a good book. To tell the truth, I haven't watched old movies for ages, so as soon as I was finished with the novel I wrote down all the titles of old movies out of it and now I'm going to watch (or in most cases re-watch) all of them.
What I should say next is hat book is really funny. Both the humour of the situation and the puns (play of words) are used brilliantly.
So as a conclusion I'll say they could make a great romcom out of this novel. If it is filmed, I'll buy a DVD.
I Wished for You is advisable for all chick-lit lovers and for people searching for something light to improve their mood.
July 28, 2013
At times this book was endearing and charming, yet at others it was just too forced.
When I got my copy from the Goodreads First Reads thing I was so enthralled by the shiny (yes shiny!) cover. The first chapter was so promising in terms of humour - the encounter with that sausage woman McNamara had me giggling like the maniac I am.
But when we hit New York and the aftermath it just felt so, so forced. The New Age stuff was odd and felt drawn up ad hoc just to pass the time - I wanted to get to the end but the struggle through that section of the book was not an easy one.
Verity is a nice enough lady and all but her secret
When I got my copy from the Goodreads First Reads thing I was so enthralled by the shiny (yes shiny!) cover. The first chapter was so promising in terms of humour - the encounter with that sausage woman McNamara had me giggling like the maniac I am.
But when we hit New York and the aftermath it just felt so, so forced. The New Age stuff was odd and felt drawn up ad hoc just to pass the time - I wanted to get to the end but the struggle through that section of the book was not an easy one.
Verity is a nice enough lady and all but her secret
January 23, 2014
www.iheart-chicklit.blogspot.com
When Penguin Ireland offered me a review copy of I Wished For You, I knew I would want to read it because after reading the blurb, I was really excited to read what Amy Huberman had in store for readers.
I Wished For You follows the story of Grace, who is really pleased with her life, she's got a wonderful boyfriend, steady job (not-so-glamorous) and pretty content with where her life is going. But, all around her, her friends are getting hitched, one by one and the pressure is on. Things are good enough for her, her relationship with her long-term boyfriend is never better, but what if they can't handle married life?
Amy Huberman has created a really funny, down-to-earth heroine and she should be proud for doing so. I liked Grace, a lot. Armed with witty and snarky remarks, playful banter which sometimes could be a bit annoying, but never failed to make me laugh! I liked Verity too, a headstrong and wise old woman, who would provide Grace with sound advice. She's sensible and rational - the complete opposite of Grace who is carefree and jovial.
Bursting with humour and hilarious incidents, I Wished For You is insanely funny. I couldn't stop myself from reading it quickly. I really warmed to the characters and Amy Huberman's writing, which is fresh, sharp and incredibly amusing. I found the references to old Hollywood films really intriguing and the vintage clothes, oh my! Sheer opulence, if you ask me!
I Wished For You is funny, no, hilarious, romantic and indulgent. After reading it, I wanted put on pretty vintage dresses and say "All right, Mr Demille. I'm ready for my close-up..". Don't laugh! But if you read I Wished For You, I can guarantee you that you will be cackling away. Buckets of charm and witty humour, an enjoyable read, all together! If you're looking for a feel-good novel which will guarantee you a laugh, then look no further!
Rating: 7/10
When Penguin Ireland offered me a review copy of I Wished For You, I knew I would want to read it because after reading the blurb, I was really excited to read what Amy Huberman had in store for readers.
I Wished For You follows the story of Grace, who is really pleased with her life, she's got a wonderful boyfriend, steady job (not-so-glamorous) and pretty content with where her life is going. But, all around her, her friends are getting hitched, one by one and the pressure is on. Things are good enough for her, her relationship with her long-term boyfriend is never better, but what if they can't handle married life?
Amy Huberman has created a really funny, down-to-earth heroine and she should be proud for doing so. I liked Grace, a lot. Armed with witty and snarky remarks, playful banter which sometimes could be a bit annoying, but never failed to make me laugh! I liked Verity too, a headstrong and wise old woman, who would provide Grace with sound advice. She's sensible and rational - the complete opposite of Grace who is carefree and jovial.
Bursting with humour and hilarious incidents, I Wished For You is insanely funny. I couldn't stop myself from reading it quickly. I really warmed to the characters and Amy Huberman's writing, which is fresh, sharp and incredibly amusing. I found the references to old Hollywood films really intriguing and the vintage clothes, oh my! Sheer opulence, if you ask me!
I Wished For You is funny, no, hilarious, romantic and indulgent. After reading it, I wanted put on pretty vintage dresses and say "All right, Mr Demille. I'm ready for my close-up..". Don't laugh! But if you read I Wished For You, I can guarantee you that you will be cackling away. Buckets of charm and witty humour, an enjoyable read, all together! If you're looking for a feel-good novel which will guarantee you a laugh, then look no further!
Rating: 7/10
September 20, 2013
Grace is seeing everybody around her get married and begin to settle down, and everyone is wondering who might be next. Grace and boyfriend Robbie have been together for years, but when he goes down on one knee, Grace freaks out. In comes Verity, ex-Hollywood costume lady and vintage clothing queen who has seen and done it all. Verity tells Grace that she needs to discover her ‘heart wish’ to be happy…
I Wished For You is a novel that is so easy to get into, within the first pages I was swept up in Grace’s story and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it! I absolutely loved the humour in the book. Amy Huberman had me laughing out loud so many times throughout the story! At one point I was snorting with laughter which was actually quite embarrassing but I couldn’t help myself! Amy really knows how to make her readers laugh – so if you want a great story with some absolutely hilarious moments then look no further!
The characters were fantastic. I particularly liked Grace, I warmed to her straight away and I found myself laughing with her, sympathising with her and cheering her on to find her ‘heart wish’. I REALLY liked Verity too – I wish I had someone like her in my life, she was brilliant as a character and I always looked forward to her scenes.
As well as the laughs there are also some serious scenes – the characters have a lot of depth to them and I liked reading about this side of them and seeing their emotions come out. I was quite touched by these scenes and I must say I’m really looking forward to reading more from Amy Huberman. I Wished For You is funny, full of emotion, romance, fashion and fun. I thoroughly enjoyed I Wished For You and it is a book I’d definitely recommend.
I Wished For You is a novel that is so easy to get into, within the first pages I was swept up in Grace’s story and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it! I absolutely loved the humour in the book. Amy Huberman had me laughing out loud so many times throughout the story! At one point I was snorting with laughter which was actually quite embarrassing but I couldn’t help myself! Amy really knows how to make her readers laugh – so if you want a great story with some absolutely hilarious moments then look no further!
The characters were fantastic. I particularly liked Grace, I warmed to her straight away and I found myself laughing with her, sympathising with her and cheering her on to find her ‘heart wish’. I REALLY liked Verity too – I wish I had someone like her in my life, she was brilliant as a character and I always looked forward to her scenes.
As well as the laughs there are also some serious scenes – the characters have a lot of depth to them and I liked reading about this side of them and seeing their emotions come out. I was quite touched by these scenes and I must say I’m really looking forward to reading more from Amy Huberman. I Wished For You is funny, full of emotion, romance, fashion and fun. I thoroughly enjoyed I Wished For You and it is a book I’d definitely recommend.
May 7, 2017
*Copy received for review.
I have really mixed feeling about this book, which may be why I've been sat here for a solid 10 minutes looking at an empty document completely baffled as to where to start. You see, I liked the story, I liked the premise because I think we've all had those days/weeks/months where we're not exactly sure what we want, where we're going and if we're heading in the right direction and I also liked Amy Huberman's writing, she has a very distinct style and there's something about it that's very captivating, relateable and genuinely laugh-out-loud funny. I just think that on occasion, there is perhaps one anecdote, one description too many and as a result this book, for me, is at least 75 pages too long. A few times I wondered when the story was going to move on, thumbing ahead a few pages to see when the next chapter started and I found myself almost losing interest.
For the first third or so of the book I really liked Grace, I really warmed to her, but as the story progressed, especially during the middle of the book, she started to frustrate me when she completely fails to see all the wonderful things she has going for her and amazing people she can genuinely rely on all of the time. Thankfully she meets Verity, one of my favourite characters (along with Ab-Norman), who helps to steer her in the right direction. The last hundred pages or so are lovely, despite feeling a little rushed, and I do think it ends at just the right point. I could quite happily have forgone large chunks of the middle, where the story seemed to trundle along to have a little more at the end, which seemed to fly by.
Overall, I think it's a fun, light read - one I would recommend for a long flight or chilled out holiday by the pool if you fancy a bit of a giggle.
I have really mixed feeling about this book, which may be why I've been sat here for a solid 10 minutes looking at an empty document completely baffled as to where to start. You see, I liked the story, I liked the premise because I think we've all had those days/weeks/months where we're not exactly sure what we want, where we're going and if we're heading in the right direction and I also liked Amy Huberman's writing, she has a very distinct style and there's something about it that's very captivating, relateable and genuinely laugh-out-loud funny. I just think that on occasion, there is perhaps one anecdote, one description too many and as a result this book, for me, is at least 75 pages too long. A few times I wondered when the story was going to move on, thumbing ahead a few pages to see when the next chapter started and I found myself almost losing interest.
For the first third or so of the book I really liked Grace, I really warmed to her, but as the story progressed, especially during the middle of the book, she started to frustrate me when she completely fails to see all the wonderful things she has going for her and amazing people she can genuinely rely on all of the time. Thankfully she meets Verity, one of my favourite characters (along with Ab-Norman), who helps to steer her in the right direction. The last hundred pages or so are lovely, despite feeling a little rushed, and I do think it ends at just the right point. I could quite happily have forgone large chunks of the middle, where the story seemed to trundle along to have a little more at the end, which seemed to fly by.
Overall, I think it's a fun, light read - one I would recommend for a long flight or chilled out holiday by the pool if you fancy a bit of a giggle.
January 31, 2014
Firstly I’d like to thank the publisher for sending me this book to read and give an honest review.
The witty writing style was something that really jumped out at me with this book and it happened pretty much straight away. The amusing situations Grace found herself in and her reactions to them were described in clear detail so that I could picture them easily – this really made me giggle!
I’m not even sure how to describe Grace, she was sort of crazy but in a very adorable way. I definitely liked her and found myself wanting the best for her so there were times that I felt frustrated by the choices she made. She was fed up with everyone expecting her and Robbie to get married so when she thought he was about to propose, she freaked out in a spectacular way!
The moment Grace met Verity was enchanting, this was something that I hadn’t expected from the storyline and it brought a magical feeling to the book. Other favourite moments of mine included: reading about how Grace and Robbie first met, ice skating in New York, Christmas time, the Wish Factory and a movie-style proposal. I also loved how it ended with a beginning (this will make sense when you read it), it was different and left me smiling.
The only downside for me was that some of it felt a little bit forced, there were a few places where it almost felt like the author was trying too hard which was a shame because the storyline itself was really good.
This was an enjoyable read with lots of laughs, twists and turns to keep you on your toes.
The witty writing style was something that really jumped out at me with this book and it happened pretty much straight away. The amusing situations Grace found herself in and her reactions to them were described in clear detail so that I could picture them easily – this really made me giggle!
I’m not even sure how to describe Grace, she was sort of crazy but in a very adorable way. I definitely liked her and found myself wanting the best for her so there were times that I felt frustrated by the choices she made. She was fed up with everyone expecting her and Robbie to get married so when she thought he was about to propose, she freaked out in a spectacular way!
The moment Grace met Verity was enchanting, this was something that I hadn’t expected from the storyline and it brought a magical feeling to the book. Other favourite moments of mine included: reading about how Grace and Robbie first met, ice skating in New York, Christmas time, the Wish Factory and a movie-style proposal. I also loved how it ended with a beginning (this will make sense when you read it), it was different and left me smiling.
The only downside for me was that some of it felt a little bit forced, there were a few places where it almost felt like the author was trying too hard which was a shame because the storyline itself was really good.
This was an enjoyable read with lots of laughs, twists and turns to keep you on your toes.
August 28, 2013
Love! Love! Love! Can you tell I loved this book???
I Wished for You was brilliantly funny while cleverly taking an in depth look at the frustration that goes on within a woman's mind when realizing she's getting older.
I was genuinely able to relate with Grace and all her inner turmoil regarding marriage, relationships, and turning thirty. Being thirty myself, I have gone through most of that, and am still going through it to be honest! I totally felt her confusion and was so glad that at least she was able to sort through some of it in the end.
Robbie, who seems to be a lot like my husband, sounds like a dream come true for most women, but even if the man is a godsend it really is hard to keep the spark going after spending so much time together. This is a matter that the majority of relationships will go through at some point or another and its at this time that you really need to take a deeper look at what is important for you. Amy Huberman captured this beautifully and was able to make it seem a little less disheartening with her remarkable humor.
I admit, I cried in the end. I Wished for You helped me develop an increased appreciation for everything I already have in my life and become a little bit more content with it all.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone concerned about getting older or getting married. Also, its certainly a great read for anyone that appreciates humor and fashion.
I Wished for You was brilliantly funny while cleverly taking an in depth look at the frustration that goes on within a woman's mind when realizing she's getting older.
I was genuinely able to relate with Grace and all her inner turmoil regarding marriage, relationships, and turning thirty. Being thirty myself, I have gone through most of that, and am still going through it to be honest! I totally felt her confusion and was so glad that at least she was able to sort through some of it in the end.
Robbie, who seems to be a lot like my husband, sounds like a dream come true for most women, but even if the man is a godsend it really is hard to keep the spark going after spending so much time together. This is a matter that the majority of relationships will go through at some point or another and its at this time that you really need to take a deeper look at what is important for you. Amy Huberman captured this beautifully and was able to make it seem a little less disheartening with her remarkable humor.
I admit, I cried in the end. I Wished for You helped me develop an increased appreciation for everything I already have in my life and become a little bit more content with it all.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone concerned about getting older or getting married. Also, its certainly a great read for anyone that appreciates humor and fashion.
September 5, 2013
Received a copy of I wished for you from the publisher Penguin Ireland via Netgalley
This book made me laugh out loud so many times! There were many stand out funny moments within the book. From Graces disastrous clients, to Ab-Norman the son of the former resident of Grace & Robbies new house who comes by to do his laundry and say Hello to his Mammy - because , you know, his mammy reincarnated into the pet cat - to Grace and Lucy's hysterical visit to The Wish Factory.
Grace is almost 30, living with her long term boyfriend and trying to figure out what kind of career she wants to pursue with her multiple random degrees. However one moment changes her life drastically and she loses all that's important to her. A chance meeting with an eccentric shop owner leads Grace towards re-building and improving her life.
But the important question is, will she get what she wished for? Or did she have it all along?
Cute laugh out loud chick lit with lots and lots of Hollywood starlet, movie and fashion designer references that makes Blair Waldorf look like a nobody.
This book made me laugh out loud so many times! There were many stand out funny moments within the book. From Graces disastrous clients, to Ab-Norman the son of the former resident of Grace & Robbies new house who comes by to do his laundry and say Hello to his Mammy - because , you know, his mammy reincarnated into the pet cat - to Grace and Lucy's hysterical visit to The Wish Factory.
Grace is almost 30, living with her long term boyfriend and trying to figure out what kind of career she wants to pursue with her multiple random degrees. However one moment changes her life drastically and she loses all that's important to her. A chance meeting with an eccentric shop owner leads Grace towards re-building and improving her life.
But the important question is, will she get what she wished for? Or did she have it all along?
Cute laugh out loud chick lit with lots and lots of Hollywood starlet, movie and fashion designer references that makes Blair Waldorf look like a nobody.
August 1, 2013
I recieved this book through Goodreads first reads for my honest review..
I have a love/hate relationship with this book. While I loved the humor(I laughed out loud in alot of parts), I also felt the book was way too long. The story didn't really go anywhere until way after the halfway mark. The author spent way too much time in the first half mentioning tons of stories that happened with the main character and her friends that I felt didn't really even have anything to do with the main storyline. I did, however like about the last 150 pages of this book. I loved the conversations Verity and Grace had. I also enjoyed the moral of the story, and there were several heartfelt moments that I loved. I just wish the author would have cut out some of the nonsense stories in the first half and spent a little more time on the ending.(it felt too rushed) Overall, not a bad book, but probably not a book I would read again. I might pick up something else by this author in the future just to see what else she comes up with.
I have a love/hate relationship with this book. While I loved the humor(I laughed out loud in alot of parts), I also felt the book was way too long. The story didn't really go anywhere until way after the halfway mark. The author spent way too much time in the first half mentioning tons of stories that happened with the main character and her friends that I felt didn't really even have anything to do with the main storyline. I did, however like about the last 150 pages of this book. I loved the conversations Verity and Grace had. I also enjoyed the moral of the story, and there were several heartfelt moments that I loved. I just wish the author would have cut out some of the nonsense stories in the first half and spent a little more time on the ending.(it felt too rushed) Overall, not a bad book, but probably not a book I would read again. I might pick up something else by this author in the future just to see what else she comes up with.
January 17, 2013
At the age of thirty Grace is more interested in old Hollywood movies and glamour rather than getting married to her long-term boyfriend Robbie. On the unexpected trip to New York with her boyfriend in toe she had least expected him to pop the question let alone in front of hundreds of people. Grace freaked out, said no and ran away while leaving him still bending on his knee. Her life gets drabber when she was kicked out of her job and has to tell her family about the break-up. Now is the time when more than ever she wanted to know her heart’s true wish and just in time she crossed path with the Vintage Queen Verity. Verity runs the most fabulous vintage shop but she is bit mysterious and trying to hide something from the world. What is it? Yet another gorgeous read from Ireland. This novel is like a hot chocolate on a snowy day. It’s packed with a lot of laugh-out-loud moments and gorgeous dresses. Easy to read and hard to put down.
November 16, 2013
Amy Huberman is very witty and I found her quirky sense of humour peppered throughout the novel. This is a slightly different take on a romantic comedy in that the heroine starts off with the love of her life but through her own confusion, loses him and loses herself a bit too. What I liked about this book? There are some genuinely funny moments that had me chuckling away to myself and the description of the clothing in the vintage store is pretty fantastic. I thought the book started off really well and ended very well also- I was eager to see what would happen (although I could kind of guess) but I felt it lost its way a bit in the middle and ventured down a couple of unnecessary routes in order to get back on track. That aside, it was a pleasant read and I'd be interested in reading more from Huberman.
July 19, 2013
I wished for you is such a lovely book. The character development is great and the characters are so funny especially th e protagonist Grace. My only issue with the book is that it took too long for something exciting to happen, it wasn't until passed the halfway mark where I didn't want to put the book down. I also feel that so much happened in the last few chapters it would have been nice if more time was dedicated to them. Over all I really enjoyed the book!
October 20, 2013
Huberman's book was a good post-knee surgery read. I could follow it while under the influence of pain medication and I was interested in what happened next. I did think the lengthy set up of the single girl turning 30 went on a bit too long and put the book a little off balance. Verity's rememberances helped the book rise above the predictable chick lit genre. Somehow I wished it was more Irish...
September 23, 2013
The book was interesting and light to read. The slow progress on how Grace found out what she really wants showed was unique and intriguing. The book kept me anxious on what she was going to do next. it was also interesting how the writer slipped the history of Grace's family into the plot to describe the cause of confusion faced by the lead character.
February 12, 2015
I read this a while ago and I loved it! I must say that I preferred her debut, Hello Heartbreak but that's not to say that this effort wasn't up to scratch. It's witty and sharp when needs be but at the same time will have you drawn in to the struggles of the main character in such a way that will leave you wanting to bring her home and make her a cuppa for comfort!
March 4, 2013
I actually really enjoyed this book. It is light hearted and quirky. Deserves the 4 stars for the style of book it is. I haven't read Amy's first book so didn't know what to expect. But this has her own Irish humour and it made be laugh a lot.
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