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The Reluctant Blogger
Dr. Schenk, I don’t know if what I’ve written amounts to a breakthrough or not, but I hope you know how difficult this was for me. I also hope this proves how serious I am.
Todd knows he is in a bad place. That’s why he went to a therapist in the first place, and that alone took a lot of doing. So when Dr. Schenk threatens to stop their sessions unless Todd puts in more effort, he grasps at the last available straw: a personal blog that will force Todd to confront his demons.
Ever since he lost his wife, Todd has not been the same. He’s been forced to Single Adult activities at church, and everyone seems to expect him to just forget Marci and get married again—especially when he meets Emily, who makes him smile and starts to bring him out of his depression. But dating again is hard when Todd has three kids of his own, not to mention an overbearing father and friends with their own problems.
This beautifully woven and emotional tale is both heartbreaking and humorous. Championing friendship, love, and family, Ryan Rapier deals adeptly with the everyday struggles we face as well as the strongest ties that keep us together. You’re sure to fall in love with this magnificent tale of redemption, forgiveness, and new beginnings.
Todd knows he is in a bad place. That’s why he went to a therapist in the first place, and that alone took a lot of doing. So when Dr. Schenk threatens to stop their sessions unless Todd puts in more effort, he grasps at the last available straw: a personal blog that will force Todd to confront his demons.
Ever since he lost his wife, Todd has not been the same. He’s been forced to Single Adult activities at church, and everyone seems to expect him to just forget Marci and get married again—especially when he meets Emily, who makes him smile and starts to bring him out of his depression. But dating again is hard when Todd has three kids of his own, not to mention an overbearing father and friends with their own problems.
This beautifully woven and emotional tale is both heartbreaking and humorous. Championing friendship, love, and family, Ryan Rapier deals adeptly with the everyday struggles we face as well as the strongest ties that keep us together. You’re sure to fall in love with this magnificent tale of redemption, forgiveness, and new beginnings.
432 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 12, 2013
100 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
October 16, 2013
This has to be one of the most emotional books I have read in a very long time. It's not unheard of for me to cry whilst reading a book, but it is rare and when it happens it is usually only at one particular scene. With The Reluctant Blogger I lost count of the number of times I had to reach for the tissues.
I warmed to main character (and his use of sarcasm) immediately. The highs and lows he goes through during the course of this book are written with such honesty I felt every emotion along with him.
I was a little concerned at first that I would find the religious side of the story (the main character is a Latter Day Saint) slightly off-putting. As it turns out I actually found it fascinating and feel that it really deepened and enriched the experience.
The only down-side for me, and I may be completely alone on this one, is that I don't feel any of it read like blog posts. I don't know anyone that can recall a conversation they had several hours earlier word for word and yet that is what is supposedly happening here. I understand why it was written this way and it's importance to the plot, but I can't help feeling there was another way to achieve the same end result. The first chapter is from Dr Schenck's perspective during one of their sessions and the next is Todd's recounting of the same session in a blog post. A lot of the information is word for word the same and I was tempted to give up there and then, but trust me, after that it is brilliant and well worth sticking with.
I knocked a star off for the reasons in the above paragraph, but this is still one of the best books I have read this year and I would highly recommend it. Just make sure you have the tissue box handy!
I give The Reluctant Blogger 4 out of 5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating System:
1 star: I will never post a 1 star review because this means it was so bad I couldn't finish it, and I don't won't publicly rate a book I haven't read all the way through.
2 stars: I may have liked the story but it was badly written or it may have been a boring story well written. Something about it kept me reading but I didn't enjoy it.
3 stars: A good, enjoyable read. If the description appeals to you I'd recommend reading it.
4 stars: A really good book that I thoroughly enjoyed and may even read again. I will want to read other books by the same author. Highly recommend.
5 stars: Reserved for books that blew me away and whose characters I can't get out of my head. These are books that I will definitely read again, possibly several times. If I read an e-book version I may even have to go buy a hard copy for my shelves. Why are you still here? Go read this book right now.
I warmed to main character (and his use of sarcasm) immediately. The highs and lows he goes through during the course of this book are written with such honesty I felt every emotion along with him.
I was a little concerned at first that I would find the religious side of the story (the main character is a Latter Day Saint) slightly off-putting. As it turns out I actually found it fascinating and feel that it really deepened and enriched the experience.
The only down-side for me, and I may be completely alone on this one, is that I don't feel any of it read like blog posts. I don't know anyone that can recall a conversation they had several hours earlier word for word and yet that is what is supposedly happening here. I understand why it was written this way and it's importance to the plot, but I can't help feeling there was another way to achieve the same end result. The first chapter is from Dr Schenck's perspective during one of their sessions and the next is Todd's recounting of the same session in a blog post. A lot of the information is word for word the same and I was tempted to give up there and then, but trust me, after that it is brilliant and well worth sticking with.
I knocked a star off for the reasons in the above paragraph, but this is still one of the best books I have read this year and I would highly recommend it. Just make sure you have the tissue box handy!
I give The Reluctant Blogger 4 out of 5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating System:
1 star: I will never post a 1 star review because this means it was so bad I couldn't finish it, and I don't won't publicly rate a book I haven't read all the way through.
2 stars: I may have liked the story but it was badly written or it may have been a boring story well written. Something about it kept me reading but I didn't enjoy it.
3 stars: A good, enjoyable read. If the description appeals to you I'd recommend reading it.
4 stars: A really good book that I thoroughly enjoyed and may even read again. I will want to read other books by the same author. Highly recommend.
5 stars: Reserved for books that blew me away and whose characters I can't get out of my head. These are books that I will definitely read again, possibly several times. If I read an e-book version I may even have to go buy a hard copy for my shelves. Why are you still here? Go read this book right now.
August 8, 2013
When I saw this book available on Netgalley, I didn't automatically request it. I thought that I deal with blogging every day, did I really want to read about someones journey with a blog? Then I was asked to participate in this blog tour and I gave it a try.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Ryan Rapier has written an witty and intelligent book about a man's struggle after the loss of his wife. While I had great sympathy for Todd, I loved the blog posts that he wrote for his psychiatrist. He is sardonic, yet truthful about his emotional state and his reaction to the people in his life.
When he met Emily and started dating, I was there in the book cheering him on. The struggles he had with dating and fatherhood are classic. It was great to have the experiences told from the male perspective. The writing is honest, it's realistic. He has to make some hard decisions and it's great to see him come to some form of acceptance of his situation and his decisions.
Todd and I have a lot in common when it comes to the Boy Scouts of America. I totally related to his negative feelings and understood where he was coming from. The BSA and I have had a rocky journey, but have finally made peace. (My husband is an avid scouter.)
Todd has to face many emotional crisis, not just within himself, but his close circle of friends and family. I'm glad that his journey wasn't easy, that he had to determine for himself where his priorities and loyalties lay. There are many hard questions asked. I was very comfortable with the resolutions depicted.
I am very grateful that I gave the book a try, it was worth my time. While the main character is LDS and some of his beliefs are discussed, anyone who would like to read about the journey Todd experiences would be able to understand his emotional and intellectual journey.
This is a clean adult novel.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Ryan Rapier has written an witty and intelligent book about a man's struggle after the loss of his wife. While I had great sympathy for Todd, I loved the blog posts that he wrote for his psychiatrist. He is sardonic, yet truthful about his emotional state and his reaction to the people in his life.
When he met Emily and started dating, I was there in the book cheering him on. The struggles he had with dating and fatherhood are classic. It was great to have the experiences told from the male perspective. The writing is honest, it's realistic. He has to make some hard decisions and it's great to see him come to some form of acceptance of his situation and his decisions.
Todd and I have a lot in common when it comes to the Boy Scouts of America. I totally related to his negative feelings and understood where he was coming from. The BSA and I have had a rocky journey, but have finally made peace. (My husband is an avid scouter.)
Todd has to face many emotional crisis, not just within himself, but his close circle of friends and family. I'm glad that his journey wasn't easy, that he had to determine for himself where his priorities and loyalties lay. There are many hard questions asked. I was very comfortable with the resolutions depicted.
I am very grateful that I gave the book a try, it was worth my time. While the main character is LDS and some of his beliefs are discussed, anyone who would like to read about the journey Todd experiences would be able to understand his emotional and intellectual journey.
This is a clean adult novel.
August 22, 2013
Todd Landry starts going to a therapist after his wife dies; when he isn't willing to talk to the therapist, Dr. Schenk suggests that he keep a blog that only the two of them have access to. What a great book! The author has a way of bringing up taboo subjects that you normally don't hear talked about in the LDS culture. I laughed out loud and nearly cried while reading this book. Very well written and worth the read.
January 2, 2019
This book is definitely meant for a Mormon audience. While I found the plot and character development a little flat, I feel like that a good story wasn't really the purpose of this book. This book was to articulate the angst of a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints with all the institutional quirks it has as well as the how those quirks are embody in their fellow-members. It especially touches on the angst of being single in such a church. If you are looking to commiserate about being widowed or single or "of pioneer-stock" in the church, this is a good book. Otherwise, its skippable.
July 27, 2018
Much better than I expected. Recently widowed father blogs as part of his working with a therapist. This is a very emotional charged book. Like, I couldn't go to sleep after reading it! But that may be because I lost my mom at a young age. I thought it was fairly realistic. Interesting family and friend dynamics and how they come in to play with his healing and moving on in his life.
January 31, 2020
I wanted to like this book, and some parts I actually did like--namely the author's sarcasm and humor. But the overwhelming LDS themes and mentions made this book such a turn-off for me.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
September 4, 2013
When I saw this book on NetGalley I am ashamed to admit that I actually didn't request it. The title and cover threw me a little. Later the author contacted me regarding reviewing this book and joining this tour and that's when I read the summary and decided it sounded like a book I would really enjoy reading. I'm really glad that I did!
I loved the voice of this book: the sarcasm, hope, and frankness of it. Todd is mad at God for taking his wife and having to deal with his current life. He continues living his religion, but he's depressed. He decides to go to a therapist to help with the depression, but he feels guilty about needing to go. Everyone wants him to move on–to find himself again, but he can't. Not without his deceased wife, Marci. His therapist can't get much out of him, so he has him set up a blog that only Todd and he have access to. It takes some time before Todd finally uses it.
The feelings expressed in this were so close to what I have heard and seen in the church at times. People believe that they just need to live the gospel more fully to get where they want to be, but sometimes we all need additional help and there is nothing wrong with that. None of us are perfect either. I also have friends who are in their 30's and not married, and I was a little older, but definitely not old in any way when I got married, so I could relate to the whole singles thing. Then there is the process that Todd, his children, and his friends and family went through to grieve. I really liked how the author was able to express some of those things in a realistic way and let Todd and the other characters work through them.
I liked reading Todd's posts, his experiences and thoughts. He was a great character. He was faced with a lot of challenges, not all of which were his own. I liked that the author let his characters make mistakes, even if I strongly disagreed with some of them (i.e. giving into Alex and treating Kevin as he did). I cried, I laughed, I sighed. His dad did get on my nerves sometimes as did his friend Jason, but they were both a part of Todd's life and had their own roles to play. I really liked the family dynamic with Todd's kids. I think they added so much to the story.
I also could relate to Todd's background since I'm an Arizonan native and graduated from ASU. It was fun to read about some of the things he does and places mentioned. It was a great read and I was so pleased with how it all came together in the end.
Here are a few excerpts/quotes that I liked. This first one refers to his family always giving service. I think we've probably all known people who give and give, but will never ask for help even when they desperately need it. :)
We can provide service, but we never receive. I think it's in the family bylaws.
Here is a good example of Todd's sarcasm. This just cracks me up!
For weeks now my dreams have been haunted by a faceless menace. It's always there, and like a lion silently watching a defenseless zebra, I know it stalks me. Day after day I run, and night after night I hide, but from the beginning I've known: I will eventually fail, and when I do–I will become one of them. I'm frightened. Truly frightened.
Okay, describing the LDS Single Adult organization that way could be construed as negative and cynical. . .
Here is Todd's description of an ASU Institute event to kick off the start of the fall semester. I love the whole commentator concept with this where it sounds like you're watching a nature show. So true too.
Commentator: (British accent of course) "The freshman boy is by far the most aggressive. You can see how he fearlessly attempts to flirt with the females of the herd. However, his inability to gain attention is mystifying to him. Slick lines and smooth moves that achieved great levels of success just months ago in his adolescent nesting ground no longer seem to have any effect here in the harsh, real-world environs. What he does not now understand is that he lacks the designation of having served as a missionary. Not holding this Returned Missionary status removes all interest on the part of the females in the herd."
Then there's this part when Todd goes on a date with Emily and gets simultaneously soaked and injured for about the third time when out with her. The series of events that lead up to this and then the entirety of what happens is pretty humorous.
When I returned, I was mostly dry and again able to walk without a visible limp. I found Emily seated at our freshly cleaned table with her head buried in her hands.
Sliding back into my side of the both, I gently asked, "Are you okay?"
"Take me home . . . before I accidentally kill you."
If you're looking for a fun, yet touching, and at parts romantic LDS book, then I would definitely recommend this!
Content: Clean.
Source: I received a copy from the author, which did not affect my review in any way.
I loved the voice of this book: the sarcasm, hope, and frankness of it. Todd is mad at God for taking his wife and having to deal with his current life. He continues living his religion, but he's depressed. He decides to go to a therapist to help with the depression, but he feels guilty about needing to go. Everyone wants him to move on–to find himself again, but he can't. Not without his deceased wife, Marci. His therapist can't get much out of him, so he has him set up a blog that only Todd and he have access to. It takes some time before Todd finally uses it.
The feelings expressed in this were so close to what I have heard and seen in the church at times. People believe that they just need to live the gospel more fully to get where they want to be, but sometimes we all need additional help and there is nothing wrong with that. None of us are perfect either. I also have friends who are in their 30's and not married, and I was a little older, but definitely not old in any way when I got married, so I could relate to the whole singles thing. Then there is the process that Todd, his children, and his friends and family went through to grieve. I really liked how the author was able to express some of those things in a realistic way and let Todd and the other characters work through them.
I liked reading Todd's posts, his experiences and thoughts. He was a great character. He was faced with a lot of challenges, not all of which were his own. I liked that the author let his characters make mistakes, even if I strongly disagreed with some of them (i.e. giving into Alex and treating Kevin as he did). I cried, I laughed, I sighed. His dad did get on my nerves sometimes as did his friend Jason, but they were both a part of Todd's life and had their own roles to play. I really liked the family dynamic with Todd's kids. I think they added so much to the story.
I also could relate to Todd's background since I'm an Arizonan native and graduated from ASU. It was fun to read about some of the things he does and places mentioned. It was a great read and I was so pleased with how it all came together in the end.
Here are a few excerpts/quotes that I liked. This first one refers to his family always giving service. I think we've probably all known people who give and give, but will never ask for help even when they desperately need it. :)
We can provide service, but we never receive. I think it's in the family bylaws.
Here is a good example of Todd's sarcasm. This just cracks me up!
For weeks now my dreams have been haunted by a faceless menace. It's always there, and like a lion silently watching a defenseless zebra, I know it stalks me. Day after day I run, and night after night I hide, but from the beginning I've known: I will eventually fail, and when I do–I will become one of them. I'm frightened. Truly frightened.
Okay, describing the LDS Single Adult organization that way could be construed as negative and cynical. . .
Here is Todd's description of an ASU Institute event to kick off the start of the fall semester. I love the whole commentator concept with this where it sounds like you're watching a nature show. So true too.
Commentator: (British accent of course) "The freshman boy is by far the most aggressive. You can see how he fearlessly attempts to flirt with the females of the herd. However, his inability to gain attention is mystifying to him. Slick lines and smooth moves that achieved great levels of success just months ago in his adolescent nesting ground no longer seem to have any effect here in the harsh, real-world environs. What he does not now understand is that he lacks the designation of having served as a missionary. Not holding this Returned Missionary status removes all interest on the part of the females in the herd."
Then there's this part when Todd goes on a date with Emily and gets simultaneously soaked and injured for about the third time when out with her. The series of events that lead up to this and then the entirety of what happens is pretty humorous.
When I returned, I was mostly dry and again able to walk without a visible limp. I found Emily seated at our freshly cleaned table with her head buried in her hands.
Sliding back into my side of the both, I gently asked, "Are you okay?"
"Take me home . . . before I accidentally kill you."
If you're looking for a fun, yet touching, and at parts romantic LDS book, then I would definitely recommend this!
Content: Clean.
Source: I received a copy from the author, which did not affect my review in any way.
July 1, 2013
Ok, I hope that it’s pretty clear why I picked up this book. As a blogger I thought it was nice to read a book about blogging and I didn’t really check out the synopsis for this one. But I didn’t think that would really matter. Then I started reading this and the story was a lot different than I imagined it would be, but it was still good. Then all of a sudden there was a flood of Mormon stuff ( apparently Mormons and LDS (=Latter Day Saint) mean the same thing). And can I just say that this is not my scene, at all. I mean this in a very respectful way, it’s just that I don’t know anything at all about the beliefs, rituals and activities. And as I have mentioned in a previous book review (H2O, the novel ), which was also a book doused in religion, is that I am not religious. I don’t have any problem with people who are, I’m just not one of them. But that’s something you need to know about me when you continue reading this review.
I really liked the main storyline in this book, it was very deep and dealt with some big issues in a very good way. But as mentioned above, the whole of this book was doused in LDS stuff. It was from people talking about missions to having scenes in the temple and watching certain broadcasts on TV. I don’t have a problem with these things being in the book, because they weren’t the main focus of the story. But this was something that made it hard for me to connect with the book and the characters because I know nothing at all about these things. So for me this was a struggle at times. But the great thing was that this religious setting was great for the storyline. Because certain characters in the story appeared to be behaving in a way that is not appropriate for people of the LDS faith. And this made Todd question a lot about his faith and his friends. This was just really interesting to read about because I don’t have any experience with these things. So for me this really was a new world opening for me.
The characters in this book were very good. I really liked how they were all very complex and not always perfect. It felt very true to life which is definitely a plus. But I have to say that I didn’t really connect with Todd, especially because of his short temper. I admit that I was also a bit bothered by his initial reaction to some situations but I liked how he handled them in the end. The thing I liked best about the characters were there relations to each other. They weren’t always simple but they felt very true for it.
One of the reasons I gave this book only three stars was the writing style. It’s written in blog posts but I’m not a fan. I don’t know what is exactly that made me opposed to the writing but I just had this slightly uncomfortable feeling throughout reading this book. Perhaps it’s because it’s actually more of a diary than an actual blog that made me like it less. Because let’s be clear about this: I love reading blogs. So this was actually a very big let-down for me. It didn’t really feel like a blog, because it was a private writing exercise for Dr. Schenk I imagine.
In general I really liked this book okay. I had a tough time getting into the story because of the religious setting which I knew nothing about. Add to that the writing style that didn’t really suit me and you have the reason behind the three stars. I did however really enjoy the storyline and all these doubts surrounding the religion.
I really liked the main storyline in this book, it was very deep and dealt with some big issues in a very good way. But as mentioned above, the whole of this book was doused in LDS stuff. It was from people talking about missions to having scenes in the temple and watching certain broadcasts on TV. I don’t have a problem with these things being in the book, because they weren’t the main focus of the story. But this was something that made it hard for me to connect with the book and the characters because I know nothing at all about these things. So for me this was a struggle at times. But the great thing was that this religious setting was great for the storyline. Because certain characters in the story appeared to be behaving in a way that is not appropriate for people of the LDS faith. And this made Todd question a lot about his faith and his friends. This was just really interesting to read about because I don’t have any experience with these things. So for me this really was a new world opening for me.
The characters in this book were very good. I really liked how they were all very complex and not always perfect. It felt very true to life which is definitely a plus. But I have to say that I didn’t really connect with Todd, especially because of his short temper. I admit that I was also a bit bothered by his initial reaction to some situations but I liked how he handled them in the end. The thing I liked best about the characters were there relations to each other. They weren’t always simple but they felt very true for it.
One of the reasons I gave this book only three stars was the writing style. It’s written in blog posts but I’m not a fan. I don’t know what is exactly that made me opposed to the writing but I just had this slightly uncomfortable feeling throughout reading this book. Perhaps it’s because it’s actually more of a diary than an actual blog that made me like it less. Because let’s be clear about this: I love reading blogs. So this was actually a very big let-down for me. It didn’t really feel like a blog, because it was a private writing exercise for Dr. Schenk I imagine.
In general I really liked this book okay. I had a tough time getting into the story because of the religious setting which I knew nothing about. Add to that the writing style that didn’t really suit me and you have the reason behind the three stars. I did however really enjoy the storyline and all these doubts surrounding the religion.
July 22, 2013
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Two things about this novel made me want to read it. 1) The title. I loved it. 2) A unique point of view in LDS Fiction. Generally speaking the main character in these love stories is always a girl. Either she has been single for a long time, divorced or widowed. This one has a guy as the main character. I wanted to read it for that very reason.
I echo some of the reviews before me that this is definitely an LDS book written for an LDS audience. There is not a lot of explanation of lingo, activities, etc. If you are not familiar with the LDS religion or culture some of that will be lost on you. But at the heart of the novel is the story of a man who has lost his wife and he is dealing with how to pick up the pieces and take care of his kids. Can he really love someone again like he loved his wife? Is it possible to heal?
In order to talk through his grief Todd's therapist asks him to start a blog. He should write about how he is feeling with his wife passing, what he did that day, etc. It's a long road because Todd refuses to see there is a problem.
Being from a family who divorced and watching both of my parents remarry, a lot of the emotions felt by the children were the same ones I had. It was very personal to me as I was reading and I did cry. This is a very emotional book. The writing is excellent.
There are some very funny moments in this book, especially around dating. I've been in the older dating scene before and it's hilarious to watch. Some of the situations Todd find himself in are classic.
I think the only complaint I have about this book is that I didn't like some of the sidekick characters. I just wanted to focus on Todd and his situation. I thought it went off too much on his friends and wasn't integral to the story.
Goodreads doesn't have a .5 system with their ratings but I gave this book a 3.5. For me that means: A good and easy read, but somewhat predictable. I liked most of the characters. I liked the story. I would recommend this and would be interested to see what the author writes next.
Two things about this novel made me want to read it. 1) The title. I loved it. 2) A unique point of view in LDS Fiction. Generally speaking the main character in these love stories is always a girl. Either she has been single for a long time, divorced or widowed. This one has a guy as the main character. I wanted to read it for that very reason.
I echo some of the reviews before me that this is definitely an LDS book written for an LDS audience. There is not a lot of explanation of lingo, activities, etc. If you are not familiar with the LDS religion or culture some of that will be lost on you. But at the heart of the novel is the story of a man who has lost his wife and he is dealing with how to pick up the pieces and take care of his kids. Can he really love someone again like he loved his wife? Is it possible to heal?
In order to talk through his grief Todd's therapist asks him to start a blog. He should write about how he is feeling with his wife passing, what he did that day, etc. It's a long road because Todd refuses to see there is a problem.
Being from a family who divorced and watching both of my parents remarry, a lot of the emotions felt by the children were the same ones I had. It was very personal to me as I was reading and I did cry. This is a very emotional book. The writing is excellent.
There are some very funny moments in this book, especially around dating. I've been in the older dating scene before and it's hilarious to watch. Some of the situations Todd find himself in are classic.
I think the only complaint I have about this book is that I didn't like some of the sidekick characters. I just wanted to focus on Todd and his situation. I thought it went off too much on his friends and wasn't integral to the story.
Goodreads doesn't have a .5 system with their ratings but I gave this book a 3.5. For me that means: A good and easy read, but somewhat predictable. I liked most of the characters. I liked the story. I would recommend this and would be interested to see what the author writes next.
July 31, 2014
With charm, insight, and empathy, Ryan Rapier explores loss, love, family relationships, and starting over in the context of LDS culture.
Todd Landry's wife died - suddenly, unexpectedly, tragically - leaving him with three kids (ages 13, 9, and 4), a broken heart, and a pile of unanswered and unanswerable questions. He's gone on autopilot for the past nine months, going through the motions of life but empty, having lost the ability to feel any joy in it. Even meeting with a therapist, a last ditch resort, doesn't seem to be helping since Todd refuses to talk about his wife, his family, his feelings, anything. Finally, Dr. Schenk puts his foot down. Either Todd starts blogging or he's done.
Scared into action, Todd starts and once he starts, a flood of words pours out.
As narrative devices go, the blogging-to-your-therapist approach was surprisingly effective for me, though I'll admit that the blog entries didn't always read as such. The blog allowed Todd to tell his story as a first-person narrative, while allowing the reader to recognize Todd's bias and get glimpses of a different perspective during his sessions with Dr. Schenk. And Dr. Schenk, as an outsider, is able to make some very astute observations regarding LDS culture and how we process loss and change that pierce through the cultural blinders we wear so obliviously sometimes: "Todd, you are not the first Mormon to come in here struggling with inner conflicts over seeking therapy. It's actually common for people of your faith...Mormons like to think they are the most emotionally stable people on earth..."
To read the rest of this review, visit Build Enough Bookshelves.
Todd Landry's wife died - suddenly, unexpectedly, tragically - leaving him with three kids (ages 13, 9, and 4), a broken heart, and a pile of unanswered and unanswerable questions. He's gone on autopilot for the past nine months, going through the motions of life but empty, having lost the ability to feel any joy in it. Even meeting with a therapist, a last ditch resort, doesn't seem to be helping since Todd refuses to talk about his wife, his family, his feelings, anything. Finally, Dr. Schenk puts his foot down. Either Todd starts blogging or he's done.
Scared into action, Todd starts and once he starts, a flood of words pours out.
As narrative devices go, the blogging-to-your-therapist approach was surprisingly effective for me, though I'll admit that the blog entries didn't always read as such. The blog allowed Todd to tell his story as a first-person narrative, while allowing the reader to recognize Todd's bias and get glimpses of a different perspective during his sessions with Dr. Schenk. And Dr. Schenk, as an outsider, is able to make some very astute observations regarding LDS culture and how we process loss and change that pierce through the cultural blinders we wear so obliviously sometimes: "Todd, you are not the first Mormon to come in here struggling with inner conflicts over seeking therapy. It's actually common for people of your faith...Mormons like to think they are the most emotionally stable people on earth..."
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August 21, 2013
Todd Landry thinks that blogging is stupid, he's only even tried because his therapist, Dr Schenk, insisted that if he didn't their therapy sessions were through. When he overcomes the idea of blogging being stupid, Todd realizes that it's actually a really good outlet for his feelings of depression that he's experienced since his wife died. Todd has to learn to navigate the world of being a single parent with the help of his parents, and some miscellaneous friends. But that's not enough, he's also thrust back into the single adult dating and activities scene that he hasn't ventured into in the last 15 years. His mom is extremely supportive, but his dad seems to be trying to force him into getting married, something that Todd doesn't feel that he's ready for, and it's more than obvious that his oldest daughter isn't ready for this radical change either. But when he meets Emily, a single adult who is beautiful and has a listening ear, Todd is willing to try again to see if he can find happiness for himself and his three young children. But will he be able to be a single dad, keep his father happy, keep up with his calling that he hates and navigate the dating scene at the same time?
I really enjoyed this book. I thought that the premise was interesting. The characters were well written and likable. There were certain times during the story that I wanted to hit Todd because he makes some seriously stupid mistakes, a sure sign that he and his story felt real to me. I think this book touched on some things that a lot of people tend to avoid talking about, some of them definitely do need to be talked about. Thanks to Ryan Rapier for a well written, fun and cute story!
I really enjoyed this book. I thought that the premise was interesting. The characters were well written and likable. There were certain times during the story that I wanted to hit Todd because he makes some seriously stupid mistakes, a sure sign that he and his story felt real to me. I think this book touched on some things that a lot of people tend to avoid talking about, some of them definitely do need to be talked about. Thanks to Ryan Rapier for a well written, fun and cute story!
August 9, 2013
3.5 stars, rounding up
Let me just start out by saying that this is an LDS fiction book. There are religious elements throughout and some LDS specific things that some people outside of this religion may not understand. The author does a good job of explaining though.
I'm not sure what I expected when I started reading this book but I can honestly say this book wasn't what I was expecting. I was mostly pleasantly surprised. :)
It isn't too often that I come across a whole book from the male point of view. This book deals with a lot of hard topics, not usually expressed from the male character standpoint. Especially in the LDS world. It was interesting and I really did feel pulled in by the story going on.
Todd has a lot of weighty issues to deal with. The loss of his wife has left him despondent and depressed. Finding himself a single father is overwhelming. He has three children struggling and needing their father. Combine that with social struggles, family relationships that are somewhat strained and friends who mean well, and Todd is almost in over his head. Heading to therapy wasn't his choice, but he knows he needs help.
I really felt for Todd and his struggles. They seemed real and identifiable. I enjoyed the journey of his healing process. This was a long book- over 400 pages- and by the end it started to feel really long. But I still enjoyed it from beginning to end. It was interesting and engaging. It had a bit of every kind of struggle in it so everyone who reads it will be able to identify at some point or another.
Let me just start out by saying that this is an LDS fiction book. There are religious elements throughout and some LDS specific things that some people outside of this religion may not understand. The author does a good job of explaining though.
I'm not sure what I expected when I started reading this book but I can honestly say this book wasn't what I was expecting. I was mostly pleasantly surprised. :)
It isn't too often that I come across a whole book from the male point of view. This book deals with a lot of hard topics, not usually expressed from the male character standpoint. Especially in the LDS world. It was interesting and I really did feel pulled in by the story going on.
Todd has a lot of weighty issues to deal with. The loss of his wife has left him despondent and depressed. Finding himself a single father is overwhelming. He has three children struggling and needing their father. Combine that with social struggles, family relationships that are somewhat strained and friends who mean well, and Todd is almost in over his head. Heading to therapy wasn't his choice, but he knows he needs help.
I really felt for Todd and his struggles. They seemed real and identifiable. I enjoyed the journey of his healing process. This was a long book- over 400 pages- and by the end it started to feel really long. But I still enjoyed it from beginning to end. It was interesting and engaging. It had a bit of every kind of struggle in it so everyone who reads it will be able to identify at some point or another.
August 25, 2013
5 STARS
Boy this book draws out the emotions for me. I laughed and cried. Saw myself in a few of the situations and having some of the same feelings. In other characters I saw people who made the same choices. It was real to me. Ryan touched a lot of hard topics in one LDS book.
I am a widow and faced a lot of the same feelings and situations as Todd faced.
Todd is the main character who is having a hard time coping with his wife's death. He was facing depression and went for help. But he is having a hard time asking and talking about what he is facing.
Since Todd has troubles opening to his Dr. He is asked to write a blog about what he is feeling and what is going on with his life. It will be just between the two of them.
A lot of the book is set in the Dr. office and writing about what is going on around him and how he handles certain problems.
Todd is a father of three little kids. He is struggling with his feelings and with the people around him.
I don't want to say much about the other problems that happen in the book that he has to learn how to cope. Sometimes I agree with him and others I personally made other choices. I think in a lot of ways Todd made better choices.
It will definitely make you think about different reactions and situations that come up. Have tissue handy.
This ebook was given to me to read and in exchange I was asked to give honest review from NetGalley and Cedar Fort.
Published August 13th 2013 by Bonneville Cedar Fort INC. 432 pages ISBN:1462112544
August 21, 2013
Todd is struggling to deal with the loss of his wife. His therapist gives him an ultimatum (after months)--start blogging to give them something to work with or he's done with therapy. For some reason, this kicks Todd into gear. The rest of the book is what Todd views as important and worth blogging about in his life and the therapy received because of it.
I really enjoyed the story. It made me cry, smile, and feel. I can't imagine the burdens that Todd felt and the things he had to deal with (bratty teenager, dating again, friend drama, family stuff, etc)--his life wasn't easy by any means, yet he seemed to handle things better than most.
In some ways, I wish the story didn't have holes in it. There were places where it jumped from one time to several weeks later and a lot happened in that amount of time, but...the reader is almost reading it as if s/he was reading the actual blog.
I didn't like the way the story was heading, towards the end, but it ended perfectly. As I said, it really made me feel and drew me in. I love the lessons that Todd learned about himself and those around him and how he became more aware and compassionate.
Great story and I look forward to more by this author!!
Content: religious aspects (LDS), brief mention of homosexuality, bars and drinking. Clean.
**Received from Netgalley, but all opinions are mine**
I really enjoyed the story. It made me cry, smile, and feel. I can't imagine the burdens that Todd felt and the things he had to deal with (bratty teenager, dating again, friend drama, family stuff, etc)--his life wasn't easy by any means, yet he seemed to handle things better than most.
In some ways, I wish the story didn't have holes in it. There were places where it jumped from one time to several weeks later and a lot happened in that amount of time, but...the reader is almost reading it as if s/he was reading the actual blog.
I didn't like the way the story was heading, towards the end, but it ended perfectly. As I said, it really made me feel and drew me in. I love the lessons that Todd learned about himself and those around him and how he became more aware and compassionate.
Great story and I look forward to more by this author!!
Content: religious aspects (LDS), brief mention of homosexuality, bars and drinking. Clean.
**Received from Netgalley, but all opinions are mine**
July 23, 2013
Todd misses his wife desperately but he doesn't want to talk about it, not even with his therapist. When his therapist insists he keep a blog in order to express his thoughts and feelings he agrees reluctantly. Between a best friend and father who want him to date and marry again and his three children, he feels like he has enough to handle, but when he meets Emily he slowly starts to open up and embrace life again. But life has a way of throwing hurdles in one's path and Todd must find a way to face them.
There are books that are unrealistic but enjoyable enough that one overlooks the unbelievable parts. Other books seem so real that the characters could walk through the door at any minute. The Reluctant Blogger is one of the latter. Todd came through as such a normal person facing the challenges and heartaches that life tends to deliver, but also the good things. The book reads like someone's journal except maybe a little more detailed than most. I quickly came to sympathize with Todd and his heartache as he struggled to deal with the death of his wife. When I start to feel the same things the character feels I know the author has done a good job and Rapier has done a good job here. LDS culture does come into play here but not in an intrusive way. Recommended.
There are books that are unrealistic but enjoyable enough that one overlooks the unbelievable parts. Other books seem so real that the characters could walk through the door at any minute. The Reluctant Blogger is one of the latter. Todd came through as such a normal person facing the challenges and heartaches that life tends to deliver, but also the good things. The book reads like someone's journal except maybe a little more detailed than most. I quickly came to sympathize with Todd and his heartache as he struggled to deal with the death of his wife. When I start to feel the same things the character feels I know the author has done a good job and Rapier has done a good job here. LDS culture does come into play here but not in an intrusive way. Recommended.
August 26, 2013
I chose to read this book for several reasons; the main character is male and I was interested in how that point of view would play out, the premise of a story told through blog posts intrigued me as well, and the insight into the Mormon (LDS) faith would be new to Cradle Catholic me. The male point of view was well expressed, the main character's anger and grief were palpable and baldly written. Some may not like the main character's frequent bouts of anger, but I felt it made him more three-dimensional as a character. The blog posts read more like journal entries, but who am I to critique - I have never written a blog! The LDS references were plentiful, as was spirituality as a whole. I think quite a few of the references could have used more explanation for the non-LDS reader. I am of the opinion that there could have been fewer religious references.
This book was, however, a book that took a hard look at the journey of working through personal crisis and depression and moving forward after tragedy. Our hero struggles and overcomes obstacles, and in many ways it's an uplifting read.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
This book was, however, a book that took a hard look at the journey of working through personal crisis and depression and moving forward after tragedy. Our hero struggles and overcomes obstacles, and in many ways it's an uplifting read.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2014
I rather enjoyed reading this book. Totally and LDS book with all the slang and lingo and goings on in "our" world.
I found myself laughing, smirking, rolling my eyes to the "I so can relate to that" incidences,and I even shed a tear. I found moments when I had actually stopped reading to re-evaluate my own self and way of thinking on certain subjects...that especially of an LDS Single...over the hill single (complete with a deep breath and eyeroll), not to mention other perspectives within the church and relations with family and friends.
A recent widower must learn to live again after his wife's death. This book is about dealing with everything from death, to how we perceive others vs what are we really struggling with in our own lives. Are we to the one needing to re-evaluate our thinking and dealings with others. The story was awesome and for me, it was thought provoking.
Thank you Ryan. I loved your book, I like your writing style and voice. We may be kin but I say this without any familial prejudices.
I found myself laughing, smirking, rolling my eyes to the "I so can relate to that" incidences,and I even shed a tear. I found moments when I had actually stopped reading to re-evaluate my own self and way of thinking on certain subjects...that especially of an LDS Single...over the hill single (complete with a deep breath and eyeroll), not to mention other perspectives within the church and relations with family and friends.
A recent widower must learn to live again after his wife's death. This book is about dealing with everything from death, to how we perceive others vs what are we really struggling with in our own lives. Are we to the one needing to re-evaluate our thinking and dealings with others. The story was awesome and for me, it was thought provoking.
Thank you Ryan. I loved your book, I like your writing style and voice. We may be kin but I say this without any familial prejudices.
August 9, 2016
I truly loved this book. Admittedly, I normally do not pick out books like THE RELUCTANT BLOGGER, as I usually opt for non-fiction or historical novels, but this book did not disappoint. In fact, I found it wonderfully entertaining, touching, and thought provoking. Rapier has a talent with dialogue and infuses his story with endearing characters and witty humor. His novel stands out from other LDS fiction as he tackles some contemporary subjects rarely addressed in other LDS novels, and he does so with honesty and openness, which I found touching and refreshing. And, as a former resident of Arizona and an Arizona State alumn, I found myself smiling with nostalgia as he wove local establishments and events into his story line. I highly recommend this book.The Reluctant Blogger
July 30, 2013
First off, I know people have mixed feelings about LDS fiction. Some are offended if its not 'Mormon' enough, and others are too preachy. Its a hard balance. I liked a book that is a clean read, no innappropriate scenes, and low on the language radar. This was what made me LOVE the book Tanned, Toned, and Totally Faking It. The perfect balance was found.
I loved The Reluctant Blogger. First off, its about blogging. Second, it made my requirements of the perfect balance as mentioned above. The true conflict in the story was realistic as it was heartbreaking. It felt very refreshing to have a modern and real story line. I don't want to ruin too much of the book itself, but I think it should definitley be on everyone's to read list. Love lost, love found, parenting, friendship, and acceptance are all topics I found myself pondering during and after reading The Reluctant Blogger.
I loved The Reluctant Blogger. First off, its about blogging. Second, it made my requirements of the perfect balance as mentioned above. The true conflict in the story was realistic as it was heartbreaking. It felt very refreshing to have a modern and real story line. I don't want to ruin too much of the book itself, but I think it should definitley be on everyone's to read list. Love lost, love found, parenting, friendship, and acceptance are all topics I found myself pondering during and after reading The Reluctant Blogger.
August 21, 2013
This book is LDS fiction and ended up really be a surprise for me. It wasn't what I was expecting when I picked it. The main character is a man and it is told mainly through blog posts that he writes for his shrink. He can't seem to talk to the guy while in his office so he has to start a blog and write down his feelings and experiences as he heals after the death of his wife. He also writes about the hazards of the single LDS scene while trying to still be dad to his three kids.
It is a very interesting perspective and I enjoyed the book. This guy has way more troubles thrown at him in just a short amount of time than I hope anyone ever has to deal with. The author is able to give Todd a voice that seems to see the humor, irony and even the hypocrisy in situations. There were quite a few "hot topics" tossed into the mix and I felt like they were handled with honesty and charity.
This wasn't a cleaned up and polished life but a real one. Well worth a read.
It is a very interesting perspective and I enjoyed the book. This guy has way more troubles thrown at him in just a short amount of time than I hope anyone ever has to deal with. The author is able to give Todd a voice that seems to see the humor, irony and even the hypocrisy in situations. There were quite a few "hot topics" tossed into the mix and I felt like they were handled with honesty and charity.
This wasn't a cleaned up and polished life but a real one. Well worth a read.
January 13, 2015
I didn't really know what to expect from the Reluctant Blogger, but whatever expectations I had were totally exceeded! This book made me laugh out loud one minute and cry the next. I loved the characters, and couldn't help but become emotionally connected to Todd.
I really loved how debut novelist Ryan Rapier approached this story. It could have been a really depressing book, but the humor he included was wonderful! Who knew reading about a trip to Walmart could be so entertaining?
The cover isn't my favorite, but it actually is pretty fitting for the story. If you don't care for the cover, ignore it and give this story a chance. I think you'll be glad you did!
There is one swear word, but the story is otherwise clean and very enjoyable. I highly recommend it, and look forward to reading more by Ryan Rapier.
I really loved how debut novelist Ryan Rapier approached this story. It could have been a really depressing book, but the humor he included was wonderful! Who knew reading about a trip to Walmart could be so entertaining?
The cover isn't my favorite, but it actually is pretty fitting for the story. If you don't care for the cover, ignore it and give this story a chance. I think you'll be glad you did!
There is one swear word, but the story is otherwise clean and very enjoyable. I highly recommend it, and look forward to reading more by Ryan Rapier.
June 19, 2013
This book, at first, made me a little uncomfortable - but only because there were topics in LDS religious culture that are usually considered taboo and avoided. But as I continued to read I realized how brilliant Ryan Rapier was in bringing these common and realistic topics to light in an enjoyable and humorous story. Everyone experiences these topics in one form or another, and has to navigate through them, so why not relate to the reader and not take ourselves too seriously all at the same time? The key to our success is not how we tip toe around things, but rather how we take an active role in our lives and therefore manage those relevant experiences in a healthy way within the framework of our faith and our most cherished relationships. I would definitely recommend this book!
August 11, 2013
I was surprised at how emotional this book was. I wasn't expecting that at all. I think I was expecting LDS fluff. Don't get me wrong, I like LDS fluff, it's typically pretty funny, but the topics covered in The Reluctant Blogger were serious and...real. I wasn't expecting things to be "real". I loved it. I loved how Todd struggles with his struggles. I love how things didn't happen typically for Todd and Emily. And even though the ending was slightly unbelievable, I liked how it came to pass. This book made me think a lot about my relationships and the people I love, and how I treat them especially if they aren't behaving how I think they should.
The Reluctant Blogger was a well written, thought provoking, and enjoyable. Grab a box of tissues, and start reading.
The Reluctant Blogger was a well written, thought provoking, and enjoyable. Grab a box of tissues, and start reading.
August 6, 2013
First, I have to say that I love this Book Cover. It tells a story all by itself.
Todd Landry is the reluctant blogger, His wife passed away four months ago, leaving him miserably lonely with three children to raise, a father, who thinks he has all the answers, and a loving, sympathetic mother.
Todd's situation led him to the Physiologist, Dr. Schenk, who, after all efforts failed in getting him to express his feelings, gave Todd the assignment of blogging every day. In each blog, he was to express his feelings. Thus Todd Landry became the reluctant blogger.
Todd takes the reader through more than a year of blogging his story, and a good story it is. Take the time to read this book. It will be worth every minute.
Todd Landry is the reluctant blogger, His wife passed away four months ago, leaving him miserably lonely with three children to raise, a father, who thinks he has all the answers, and a loving, sympathetic mother.
Todd's situation led him to the Physiologist, Dr. Schenk, who, after all efforts failed in getting him to express his feelings, gave Todd the assignment of blogging every day. In each blog, he was to express his feelings. Thus Todd Landry became the reluctant blogger.
Todd takes the reader through more than a year of blogging his story, and a good story it is. Take the time to read this book. It will be worth every minute.
July 29, 2015
I was pleasantly surprised by this book and how emotional I was reading it. I cried multiple times. It's also been a long time since I have started a book and not wanted to put it down- I don't think I've read a book so fast since I started college haha. It was a fast and gripping read. So many of the characters reminded me of people I know and the main character felt very real and relatable. I enjoyed the changing relationships between patient and doctor, father and daughter, father and son, old friends, new romantic interests, etc. I thought the author did a great job of setting the story within LDS culture- which I was a little nervous about when I started. Overall a fun (but emotional) read with a satisfying ending.
July 30, 2013
What an amazing, beautifully-told, inspiring story!
I LOVE the subtitle...When LIFE gives you LEMONS ~ make a BLOG!
You will be drawn in and follow the roller-coaster called life with its ups and downs and bumpy curves.
You will learn that family and friends are most important no matter what and along the way you will realize that faith and hope keep us grounded and that a truly loving Heavenly Father keeps us lifted.
Painfully evident are life's struggles, yet somehow we all get through them and move forward....
And it is okay if we sometimes need a little help from a psychiatrist or a blog.
I LOVE the subtitle...When LIFE gives you LEMONS ~ make a BLOG!
You will be drawn in and follow the roller-coaster called life with its ups and downs and bumpy curves.
You will learn that family and friends are most important no matter what and along the way you will realize that faith and hope keep us grounded and that a truly loving Heavenly Father keeps us lifted.
Painfully evident are life's struggles, yet somehow we all get through them and move forward....
And it is okay if we sometimes need a little help from a psychiatrist or a blog.
September 12, 2013
I'm rounding up if I am being honest. There were times when I laughed out loud and I even shed a few tears(but I was extra emotional today) but there were some things that irritated me and things I wasn't setting out to read about when I picked this book. There were certain things that I didn't feel contributed anything to the story and I would have enjoyed the book more if I didn't feel uncomfortable reading those things. I admit to that being my issue but I still couldn't walk away feeling better than a generous 3 stars.
September 16, 2013
I loved the book. The protagonist and his world are very real to me and caused to to reflect about my own relationships and beliefs. I bought the book after hearing an interview with the author on The Good Word podcast.
I don't like the title of the book. It doesn't describe the book very well. While I maintain a private blog-journal (though much more poorly written) I still think of blogging as being about interacting with readers. This was a much more introspective work. It was fresh and honest and made me want to be a better person.
I don't like the title of the book. It doesn't describe the book very well. While I maintain a private blog-journal (though much more poorly written) I still think of blogging as being about interacting with readers. This was a much more introspective work. It was fresh and honest and made me want to be a better person.
October 22, 2013
LOVED IT!! Every time I read a few pages, I wondered how a male author could so perfectly nail the details, and the emotions in this book. It spoke so well! I loved the characters, and found myself laughing with them. As a parent, I loved the interactions with the parents and his kids. As a Mormon, I loved the way he tackled hard subjects, and as a Cubmaster, I loved the descriptions of scouting (and the scout office!!) I could hardly put it down...and have already lent my copy out or I would be reading it again. Highly recommend it!!
August 25, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. It had me laughing out loud, crying, and even rolling my eyes at some parts. The main story line is about a man who has lost his wife and he is not coping to great. He has gone to a therapist to help him out. The therapist has suggested that he write a blog and his feelings - and thus the book begins. The only major draw back to this book is that it has a lot of Mormon culture mixed through out the book. If you are not LDS you would like the book, but somethings are just funnier if you have a background with the LDS church at all.
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