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Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade
Living the perfect life has always been easy peasy for Pearl Bryzinski, because she’s practically a pro at ignoring the negative and putting a positive spin on the facts, but it’s impossible for her to find anything positive about Daddy skipping town with that blue-haired floozy in a flashy brown Pinto. No matter how hard she tries, she can’t ignore the fact that he’s gone… or the fact that she’s becoming a drama queen who can sweat like a sumo wrestler doing push-ups in a sauna. It’s almost enough to suck the blush out of her rose-colored glasses. Whether she likes it or not, she’s gonna have to turn some of her wishbone into backbone.
Layer by layer, assumptions and misconceptions peel away, as Pearl learns to buck up in the face of reality, and to laugh at her imperfect… but not so bad… life. Supported by a down-to-earth husband who loves her with every blue-collar bone in his body, a mother who isn’t the self-centered witch Pearl imagined her to be, three terrific grown kids… okay, make that two terrific kids, and a Golden Boy who’s a far cry from 24-carat… and a bunch of wonderful wacky gal pals, Pearl comes to realize that her mixed bag of family and friends makes her life damned near perfect. Pearl being Pearl, she’ll never give up her rosy specs entirely, but learning to handle reality also means learning to deal with death.
Layer by layer, assumptions and misconceptions peel away, as Pearl learns to buck up in the face of reality, and to laugh at her imperfect… but not so bad… life. Supported by a down-to-earth husband who loves her with every blue-collar bone in his body, a mother who isn’t the self-centered witch Pearl imagined her to be, three terrific grown kids… okay, make that two terrific kids, and a Golden Boy who’s a far cry from 24-carat… and a bunch of wonderful wacky gal pals, Pearl comes to realize that her mixed bag of family and friends makes her life damned near perfect. Pearl being Pearl, she’ll never give up her rosy specs entirely, but learning to handle reality also means learning to deal with death.
282 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2013
17 people are currently reading
1878 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 18, 2014
"The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each others' life" that's what was said by one of the most famous author of all times, Richard David Bach. Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade by Susan Flett Swiderski teaches us the value of family bonds and the concept of how to respect each and every one of your family. The name of the book may sound so quirky and girly and chick-litish type, but it's more like a classic drama which gives a lesson to its readers.
A huge thanks to the author, Susan Flett Swiderski, for giving me an opportunity to read and honestly review her book.
This is about Pearl, a doting wife, caring mother and a careless daughter, who is optimistic about every aspects of her life and loves to wear rose-colored specs. Since Pearl is hitting menopause, she is getting hot flashes all the times (I mean literally, she sweats out like a big fat sumo wrestler!). She is in love with her garden centerpiece; a unicorn called Elvis and always praises her children no matter how they treat her. But soon we see her dealing with some hard core realities and truths about her family and at this time, it’s quite unpredictable that how she would handle all those issues, considering the fact that she gets angry too easily. And oh that beautiful climax as well as the epilogue will totally bewilder you.
The author has surely got a way with some pretty good words, which really proves that she got some big talent. Her characterization of Pearl makes it easier for the readers to connect with this fictitious woman. The problems that are addressed in this book are more like every household has got this same drama with the lady of the houses. The author pens down this story about Pearl and her family in a very refreshing and engaging way. Pearl's wits and humor keep you hooked through the very last pages of this book. Apart from Pearl, all the other characters are extremely funny and some are really weird and few are like a pain-in-the-ass types. And a whole bag of mixture of so many different kinds of characters makes the book real funny and delightful to read it. This book is perfect for a warm sunny day-out read on your backyard!
So if you want to get a pretty good laugh, then do read this book for sure.
A huge thanks to the author, Susan Flett Swiderski, for giving me an opportunity to read and honestly review her book.
This is about Pearl, a doting wife, caring mother and a careless daughter, who is optimistic about every aspects of her life and loves to wear rose-colored specs. Since Pearl is hitting menopause, she is getting hot flashes all the times (I mean literally, she sweats out like a big fat sumo wrestler!). She is in love with her garden centerpiece; a unicorn called Elvis and always praises her children no matter how they treat her. But soon we see her dealing with some hard core realities and truths about her family and at this time, it’s quite unpredictable that how she would handle all those issues, considering the fact that she gets angry too easily. And oh that beautiful climax as well as the epilogue will totally bewilder you.
The author has surely got a way with some pretty good words, which really proves that she got some big talent. Her characterization of Pearl makes it easier for the readers to connect with this fictitious woman. The problems that are addressed in this book are more like every household has got this same drama with the lady of the houses. The author pens down this story about Pearl and her family in a very refreshing and engaging way. Pearl's wits and humor keep you hooked through the very last pages of this book. Apart from Pearl, all the other characters are extremely funny and some are really weird and few are like a pain-in-the-ass types. And a whole bag of mixture of so many different kinds of characters makes the book real funny and delightful to read it. This book is perfect for a warm sunny day-out read on your backyard!
So if you want to get a pretty good laugh, then do read this book for sure.
May 10, 2013
What? If I didn't love it, who WILL?
February 3, 2014
I already knew I loved Swiderski's "voice" as I've had the pleasure of reading her blog, but this book took that to a whole new level. Pearl was immediately someone I felt like I wanted to be friends with, and I came to genuinely care about her and her life as I read the book. When I was finished, I hated saying goodbye to Pearl and her world, so I know that is a sign of a great story and a wonderful character.
At times Hot Flashes is laugh out loud funny while at other times it nearly brought tears to my eyes. If you want a great read that touches on both the humor and the heartache of life, you won't be disappointed in Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade.
At times Hot Flashes is laugh out loud funny while at other times it nearly brought tears to my eyes. If you want a great read that touches on both the humor and the heartache of life, you won't be disappointed in Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade.
March 27, 2014
I was so excited when I started reading Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade by Susan Flett Swiderski. Like the lemonade it's named after, this book is refreshing! The characters are real, they're quirky and they're funny. To continue with the lemonade metaphor, main character Pearl Bryzinski is sweet while her husband is a tad on the tart side – an endearingly blue collar fellah who loves his woman like lemons love sunshine. Pearlie is at the age when menopausal hot flashes and other life changes begin to erode some of the beliefs she has always clung to. For example, she has always believed looking after her eldest son's every need was the right thing to do – thankfully she begins to see he's a user and a thankless boor. (I seriously wanted to give this guy a swift kick in the ass but Pearlie handled things much more diplomatically.)
This charming book is all about family, warts and all, and I enjoyed every page of it. Susan Flett Swiderski has a naturalness about her writing that I really enjoy, and I highly recommend this wonderful novel to women of all ages - but especially to those of us who spend several hours a day with their head stuck in the refrigerator.
This charming book is all about family, warts and all, and I enjoyed every page of it. Susan Flett Swiderski has a naturalness about her writing that I really enjoy, and I highly recommend this wonderful novel to women of all ages - but especially to those of us who spend several hours a day with their head stuck in the refrigerator.
March 24, 2014
This delightful book is filled with sparkling prose that carries you at a break-neck pace through events that reach out and grab you. Then suddenly you come across a scene so moving and so deep that you have to stop reading and ponder a while. The quirky but believable characters are so well-drawn that you feel you already know them – or people just like them. The places and events have funny, fascinating, and intriguing details that propel you onward to see what happens next. At the end of this fascinating story, you learn something that could give you a brand new perspective on life.
July 24, 2019
I immediately felt like the character "Pearl" could be myself. I have not yet started menopause, but my body is getting ready. This was a great book for making that time in your life a little "lighter" and a fun story to read. Just a little peek into what that time in your life might be like. I am also an only child and my dad also had Alzheimer's. So many things going on in this book that I identified with. There are some serious things that happen in this story and at this time in my life, it is good to know you are not alone on this journey. I laughed, I cried and I enjoyed the ride. I have a hot flash for you... Read this book and enjoy these characters!
February 25, 2015
I received a copy of this novel from the Goodreads: First Reads giveaway.
I was expecting a Southern-Fried Chick-Lit comedy when I entered to win this book. (I entered to win a couple of different times, each time I saw it up for grabs). It sounded like something that not only I would like but my mom as well. After finishing it, I told my mom not to waste her time.
I zipped through this book pretty quick, thanks to taking it with me on errands day so it was all I had as I waited for new tires to be mounted and balanced as well as other "sit and wait" situations. I just couldn't get sucked into the story as the writing was choppy and the characters so unlikable. Swiderski adds extra details and "side stories/thoughts" of characters that Pearl, as our main POV, would not know. This is distracting and lowers the quality of writing as sometimes this random side points come in the middle of a paragraph, out of the blue and without rhyme or reason. If the chapters alternated POVs or was handled differently, perhaps it would be ok but we are privy to Pearl's husband's thoughts in the same section as we are hers, making the flow of the story feel bumpy and is at times jarring as the switch is so sudden. Either tell the story from one character's point of view or make it so that each person has equal say.
The writing was not well thought out. At times, I had no idea what was going on as it felt like since the author knew what she thinking and shaved off important details that would be used to fill the rest of us in. I still can't picture that stupid unicorn and what it was suppose to be made out of. It's in the yard... so concrete? No, it is shaggy and fixed with glue and tape...stuffed animal? WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?
The story jumps around a little too much for me as nothing is going on but everything is happening. I get that there has to be the set up for how much of a happy, bury her head in the sand kind of gal that Pearl is but did we need Luke's neighbor's opinions of her to get that?
I hated basically every character in the book. I have lived in seven states and visited many more; never in my life have a met a person as annoying and boring as Pearl. There is seeing the good in everything and everyone and then there is just being a dummy. Plus, she is a little old to have such deep-seated Daddy issues. I did like the conversation between Pearl and her Husband when he tells her to cut Ida some slack about working. Sad that a 40+ year old woman doesn't get that if one spouse doesn't work, then the other must do double-time to get food on the table and lights on, to provide. Pearl flip-flopped from acting like a grown woman to random fits of being 16 again, another distracting writing style that had no ties to the whole menopause plot.
Luke was a self-serving jerk, mainly thanks to Pearl's "head in sand" way of dealing. Marybeth was no more a blip on the page with very little ties to the overall story-line. Matt suffers the same fate as MaryBeth.
Pearl is in denial about her whole life and her family and just keeps going on about her days. Her husband, as flawed as he was, ended up being the only good thing about the book. And he was still kind of an ass. These characters were not well-written nor do they seem to have been created to move the story along or to make the reader feel anything.
So many "friends" and random people in and out of the story... why? People like Naomi, was she really needed? I get Candy (BFF & all) but Rose and all the other forgotten names.....why were they there? They barely knew each other or just weren't close enough to be considered friends and nothing about that side plot changed. It was filler, a big lead into her getting her trip to see that ocean via granny bus gambling trips.
The end is near! Bad wreck, heart attack and the big super duper dinger of "DADDY!!!!
Seriously, this book bugged the hell out of me as I felt nothing but disgust by the time I was done with it.
Poor plot filled with terrible characters wrapped up in scatter-style writing does not make for a fun read or even a heart-breaking read. It just has me asking everyone that I run into "Do you know ANYONE, AT ALL, like this woman?"
Quite easily the worse free book I received from GR or at least tied with These Violent Delights and Ballroom
I was expecting a Southern-Fried Chick-Lit comedy when I entered to win this book. (I entered to win a couple of different times, each time I saw it up for grabs). It sounded like something that not only I would like but my mom as well. After finishing it, I told my mom not to waste her time.
I zipped through this book pretty quick, thanks to taking it with me on errands day so it was all I had as I waited for new tires to be mounted and balanced as well as other "sit and wait" situations. I just couldn't get sucked into the story as the writing was choppy and the characters so unlikable. Swiderski adds extra details and "side stories/thoughts" of characters that Pearl, as our main POV, would not know. This is distracting and lowers the quality of writing as sometimes this random side points come in the middle of a paragraph, out of the blue and without rhyme or reason. If the chapters alternated POVs or was handled differently, perhaps it would be ok but we are privy to Pearl's husband's thoughts in the same section as we are hers, making the flow of the story feel bumpy and is at times jarring as the switch is so sudden. Either tell the story from one character's point of view or make it so that each person has equal say.
The writing was not well thought out. At times, I had no idea what was going on as it felt like since the author knew what she thinking and shaved off important details that would be used to fill the rest of us in. I still can't picture that stupid unicorn and what it was suppose to be made out of. It's in the yard... so concrete? No, it is shaggy and fixed with glue and tape...stuffed animal? WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?
The story jumps around a little too much for me as nothing is going on but everything is happening. I get that there has to be the set up for how much of a happy, bury her head in the sand kind of gal that Pearl is but did we need Luke's neighbor's opinions of her to get that?
I hated basically every character in the book. I have lived in seven states and visited many more; never in my life have a met a person as annoying and boring as Pearl. There is seeing the good in everything and everyone and then there is just being a dummy. Plus, she is a little old to have such deep-seated Daddy issues. I did like the conversation between Pearl and her Husband when he tells her to cut Ida some slack about working. Sad that a 40+ year old woman doesn't get that if one spouse doesn't work, then the other must do double-time to get food on the table and lights on, to provide. Pearl flip-flopped from acting like a grown woman to random fits of being 16 again, another distracting writing style that had no ties to the whole menopause plot.
Luke was a self-serving jerk, mainly thanks to Pearl's "head in sand" way of dealing. Marybeth was no more a blip on the page with very little ties to the overall story-line. Matt suffers the same fate as MaryBeth.
Pearl is in denial about her whole life and her family and just keeps going on about her days. Her husband, as flawed as he was, ended up being the only good thing about the book. And he was still kind of an ass. These characters were not well-written nor do they seem to have been created to move the story along or to make the reader feel anything.
So many "friends" and random people in and out of the story... why? People like Naomi, was she really needed? I get Candy (BFF & all) but Rose and all the other forgotten names.....why were they there? They barely knew each other or just weren't close enough to be considered friends and nothing about that side plot changed. It was filler, a big lead into her getting her trip to see that ocean via granny bus gambling trips.
The end is near! Bad wreck, heart attack and the big super duper dinger of "DADDY!!!!
Seriously, this book bugged the hell out of me as I felt nothing but disgust by the time I was done with it.
Poor plot filled with terrible characters wrapped up in scatter-style writing does not make for a fun read or even a heart-breaking read. It just has me asking everyone that I run into "Do you know ANYONE, AT ALL, like this woman?"
Quite easily the worse free book I received from GR or at least tied with These Violent Delights and Ballroom
January 29, 2014
This is the first book I've ever won on goodreads, I sure hope I'll win many more. The time this book landed on my hands, I was so thrilled and I emailed the author to thank her for sending it to this side of the world. she got back to me saying this book is unlike any other I've ever read, and guess what she was more than right. It totally blew me away. It took me five days to devour just because I kept going back a few pages....yep I know it's weird right.
I got a hot flash for you, the five stars is not because it's a first reads but because it's a honest work of fiction that sprung forth from the fertile imagination of the author. Spiced up by humour, and lots of delicious food (apart from Ida's coffee that according to pearl could jump start a dead man, and never washed her coffee pot, maybe she should've washed the pot, no.....buy a new coffee pot)
Pear living an ordinary life with her family, George (her lovely husband) and her three children, Luke (who's a pain in the ass), MaryBeth (her lovely daughter), and Matthew(their last born son, I tell you he has a stomach enough for two people, the man can EAT). Her dog Cuervo, (doesn't it just love picking on George). and her favourite ornament Elvis (a unicorn) that's the centerpiece of her garden. But believe you me that thing (I totally agree with her best friend Candy) it's ugly and cuervo knows this too.
Pearly there doesn't agree that people have faults and wouldn't accept anything negative being said about her son Luke who takes the pleasure on wiping himself on her mother like she's somekind of doormat, but pearly the was the one lying on the floor with a welcome note. Still I'd take the pleasure of punching him right in the face over and over again....hoping he'll straighten up.
pearl being at the verge of menopause is dealt greatly by the after effects as she sweats so much (she things the could drown in her own sweat). She's also got out-rageous mood swings (when her husband was late for dinner she pull off the table clothe with all the kitchen ware on top and threw everything outside the back door)
Eventually change is inevitable and pearl wises up and realizes his son Luke is using her and her unicorn Elvis is ugly and should be gotten rid of...
I recommend this book to anyone and everyone......this book awesome no amazing.
Susy thanks a lot for sending me this book now I'll keep watch of your books and hope against hope I'll win more on goodreads.
this should sell like a hot cake or steamed crabs(I'd love to taste that).
I got a hot flash for you, the five stars is not because it's a first reads but because it's a honest work of fiction that sprung forth from the fertile imagination of the author. Spiced up by humour, and lots of delicious food (apart from Ida's coffee that according to pearl could jump start a dead man, and never washed her coffee pot, maybe she should've washed the pot, no.....buy a new coffee pot)
Pear living an ordinary life with her family, George (her lovely husband) and her three children, Luke (who's a pain in the ass), MaryBeth (her lovely daughter), and Matthew(their last born son, I tell you he has a stomach enough for two people, the man can EAT). Her dog Cuervo, (doesn't it just love picking on George). and her favourite ornament Elvis (a unicorn) that's the centerpiece of her garden. But believe you me that thing (I totally agree with her best friend Candy) it's ugly and cuervo knows this too.
Pearly there doesn't agree that people have faults and wouldn't accept anything negative being said about her son Luke who takes the pleasure on wiping himself on her mother like she's somekind of doormat, but pearly the was the one lying on the floor with a welcome note. Still I'd take the pleasure of punching him right in the face over and over again....hoping he'll straighten up.
pearl being at the verge of menopause is dealt greatly by the after effects as she sweats so much (she things the could drown in her own sweat). She's also got out-rageous mood swings (when her husband was late for dinner she pull off the table clothe with all the kitchen ware on top and threw everything outside the back door)
Eventually change is inevitable and pearl wises up and realizes his son Luke is using her and her unicorn Elvis is ugly and should be gotten rid of...
I recommend this book to anyone and everyone......this book awesome no amazing.
Susy thanks a lot for sending me this book now I'll keep watch of your books and hope against hope I'll win more on goodreads.
this should sell like a hot cake or steamed crabs(I'd love to taste that).
February 10, 2015
Hot Flashes and Cold Lemonade is a book of literary fiction that, and as you can tell from the title, touches on a time of life many of us could write volumes about. You know the one where female hormones fade and all those Y-chromosomes make their presence known in the form of unexpected rage, uncontainable bodily functions, and flashes of unemotional intelligence.
This wonderfully humorous book follows the journey of one irrepressible glass is half-full dirty blonde, Pearl Bryzinski. She's married to George, a hardworking, beer drinking, not a romantic bone in his body, good guy. She has three lovely children, and the first-born can do no wrong, he's her little boy, until suddenly one night his expectations and her reality clash. Pearl has supportive gal pals, a volatile relationship with her mother, and a father she's put on a 'can do no wrong' pedestal.
It all sounds ideal, but nothing in life is that easy. I enjoyed following Pearl through the minefield that is the change. I especially enjoyed how menopause influenced her actions and reactions to the people in her life she had managed to put in the crayon box of eight colors, only to find that true colors can't be found in a box of eight or even thirty-six.
I hate crying, but when an author can evoke tears and laughter, empathy and compassion, I call that miraculous and take my hat off to Susan.
Despite the fact that there is no mystery, no murder, and no horror, this will always be one of my favorite books! Writers who take ordinary life and write it with a cleverness that keeps me turning the page are, in my opinion, super talented. Susan Flett Swiderski is one of those writers. Read her blog, I Think, Therefore I Yam and you'll see humor and genius in every post. I look forward to more amazing reads from this brilliant writer.
This wonderfully humorous book follows the journey of one irrepressible glass is half-full dirty blonde, Pearl Bryzinski. She's married to George, a hardworking, beer drinking, not a romantic bone in his body, good guy. She has three lovely children, and the first-born can do no wrong, he's her little boy, until suddenly one night his expectations and her reality clash. Pearl has supportive gal pals, a volatile relationship with her mother, and a father she's put on a 'can do no wrong' pedestal.
It all sounds ideal, but nothing in life is that easy. I enjoyed following Pearl through the minefield that is the change. I especially enjoyed how menopause influenced her actions and reactions to the people in her life she had managed to put in the crayon box of eight colors, only to find that true colors can't be found in a box of eight or even thirty-six.
I hate crying, but when an author can evoke tears and laughter, empathy and compassion, I call that miraculous and take my hat off to Susan.
Despite the fact that there is no mystery, no murder, and no horror, this will always be one of my favorite books! Writers who take ordinary life and write it with a cleverness that keeps me turning the page are, in my opinion, super talented. Susan Flett Swiderski is one of those writers. Read her blog, I Think, Therefore I Yam and you'll see humor and genius in every post. I look forward to more amazing reads from this brilliant writer.
February 11, 2014
Why I Love Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade
Susan Flett Swiderski's Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is the perfect title for a story that unwinds easily like a warm summer day one moment, and turns stormy the next. Pearl is a multifaceted character who can make you laugh hysterically and cry like a baby when you least expect it. I'll never forget the heart-rending scene where her successful son invites her to a dinner party. She always puts her family first which often comes back to haunt her.
Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is something that we all can relate to. Each character has a new layer that is slowly peeled away throughout the story. For example, Pearl's mother and husband have a special relationship that Pearl doesn't even begin to appreciate until later in the novel. She is so busy trying to be a supportive wife and mother that she forgets to be a more accepting daughter. We all struggle with these issues at some point in our lives.
I was sad when Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade came to an end, not because I was disappointed with the ending, but because I didn't want to say goodbye to this wonderful family. Susan's quick wit, and attention to detail made me want to spend more time with these amazing characters. It also made me appreciate my own family, flaws and all.
Susan Flett Swiderski's Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is the perfect title for a story that unwinds easily like a warm summer day one moment, and turns stormy the next. Pearl is a multifaceted character who can make you laugh hysterically and cry like a baby when you least expect it. I'll never forget the heart-rending scene where her successful son invites her to a dinner party. She always puts her family first which often comes back to haunt her.
Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is something that we all can relate to. Each character has a new layer that is slowly peeled away throughout the story. For example, Pearl's mother and husband have a special relationship that Pearl doesn't even begin to appreciate until later in the novel. She is so busy trying to be a supportive wife and mother that she forgets to be a more accepting daughter. We all struggle with these issues at some point in our lives.
I was sad when Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade came to an end, not because I was disappointed with the ending, but because I didn't want to say goodbye to this wonderful family. Susan's quick wit, and attention to detail made me want to spend more time with these amazing characters. It also made me appreciate my own family, flaws and all.
February 16, 2018
A warm and living story
This book had me wiping my eyes toward the end. The author told a love story about family. And it was a great story. The characters, Pearl, George and the cast of friends and family was so real. The relationship that Pearl had with her mother made me mad at times, but at the end there was true reconciliation.
This book had me wiping my eyes toward the end. The author told a love story about family. And it was a great story. The characters, Pearl, George and the cast of friends and family was so real. The relationship that Pearl had with her mother made me mad at times, but at the end there was true reconciliation.
March 30, 2014
I won this book through a goodreads give-away, and I have to say - the author's the nicest one I've seen so far - personally signed and even a hand-written note to go with it :) awesome.
Too bad that the book turned out to be not the typical book I read (otherwise I might have given 4 stars). This is a pretty light and funny read, however it gets deep and touching at the end. The first part of the book I was bored through, but in the second things got more serious and I did enjoy it. I think I was reading the first part in the wrong frame of mind - you need to read this book as a form of relaxation after a tough day at work, for example. It's really enjoyable that way. And the ending was really good, the epilogue's also hilarious. For a light read, perhaps a vacation read - I would definitely recommend it. Just don't pick it up if you are into more serious reading or not in a light mood.
Too bad that the book turned out to be not the typical book I read (otherwise I might have given 4 stars). This is a pretty light and funny read, however it gets deep and touching at the end. The first part of the book I was bored through, but in the second things got more serious and I did enjoy it. I think I was reading the first part in the wrong frame of mind - you need to read this book as a form of relaxation after a tough day at work, for example. It's really enjoyable that way. And the ending was really good, the epilogue's also hilarious. For a light read, perhaps a vacation read - I would definitely recommend it. Just don't pick it up if you are into more serious reading or not in a light mood.
March 25, 2014
Super love this! Highly recommended!
This is a book perfect for whatever mood you're in. If you're in a jolly mood, the lines can make you laugh hysterically. If you're sad, this will perk you up. If you're kind of sulky, feeling lost in the world, then read this and you'll feel better once you get to know the real persons behind the characters.
Pearl is this heroic mom who makes always makes sure that everyone in her family is fed, cared for, loved, and prioritized. She tends to set aside her own needs because her family comes first.
I love how she just flared up when, after putting dinner together, her husband came in about an hour or so late, with dinner on hand that he thought would appease her. And after that, Pearl just gave this smile and went on with dinner. Hahahahah!!!!
All in all, I am super happy and lucky to have won a copy of this from Goodreads and Susan Swiderski.
This is a book perfect for whatever mood you're in. If you're in a jolly mood, the lines can make you laugh hysterically. If you're sad, this will perk you up. If you're kind of sulky, feeling lost in the world, then read this and you'll feel better once you get to know the real persons behind the characters.
Pearl is this heroic mom who makes always makes sure that everyone in her family is fed, cared for, loved, and prioritized. She tends to set aside her own needs because her family comes first.
I love how she just flared up when, after putting dinner together, her husband came in about an hour or so late, with dinner on hand that he thought would appease her. And after that, Pearl just gave this smile and went on with dinner. Hahahahah!!!!
All in all, I am super happy and lucky to have won a copy of this from Goodreads and Susan Swiderski.
January 11, 2015
This is a book about a fairly normal woman’s fairly normal life. If you are looking for nail-biting action – or unsolvable mystery, this is not the book for you. It you do, however, want to read a book with believable characters, that may very well remind you of yourself – or at the least, someone you know – then this is your book. Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is about Pearl and her family and friends. This book is a slice of their lives – and deals with all the ordinary, everyday things that life involves. It is nice to read a book that I can relate to. I won this book as a Goodreads' Firstreads giveaway and am glad I did.
July 18, 2015
Two words - simply delightful!
Such a feisty MC who "kung fu ass-kicked that no-good dirty dog thought to the back burner of her mind where it damned well belonged." Tell me, how can you resist that? I was captivated by Pearly Mae! Such an upbeat character!
And I DO agree... "there's humor to be found in every situation, if you only take the time to step back and look for it."
Here's a 'hot flash' from this satisfied reader: the epilogue provides the perfect finishing touch.
A wonderful story!
Such a feisty MC who "kung fu ass-kicked that no-good dirty dog thought to the back burner of her mind where it damned well belonged." Tell me, how can you resist that? I was captivated by Pearly Mae! Such an upbeat character!
And I DO agree... "there's humor to be found in every situation, if you only take the time to step back and look for it."
Here's a 'hot flash' from this satisfied reader: the epilogue provides the perfect finishing touch.
A wonderful story!
September 20, 2013
Here's a hot flash for you: this book warmed my heart, made me laugh, and made me cry, often all at the same time. It went down like a glass of cold lemonade on a hot summer day, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.
The characters are some of the most authentically human I've ever read -- sublimely, hilariously flawed, both exasperating and inspiring. I have a feeling they'll be staying with me for quite a while. And that's okay. I'll enjoy the company.
The characters are some of the most authentically human I've ever read -- sublimely, hilariously flawed, both exasperating and inspiring. I have a feeling they'll be staying with me for quite a while. And that's okay. I'll enjoy the company.
July 9, 2013
I loved this book. I could not put it down. The characters are so real, you simply have to find out what happens next. It's as tho' you are peaking into your neighbor Pearl's window and seeing her middle aged life unfold.
I laughed a lot, but sometimes had tears in my eyes because you begin to really care about Pearl and her family. To me THAT is a sign of an excellent book.
Ms. Swiderski has a unique voice. One I am hoping we get to hear again in the very near future.
I laughed a lot, but sometimes had tears in my eyes because you begin to really care about Pearl and her family. To me THAT is a sign of an excellent book.
Ms. Swiderski has a unique voice. One I am hoping we get to hear again in the very near future.
November 28, 2014
This book has a wonderful cast of characters who come alive. They face everyday problems that most of us are familiar with, making it easy to relate. The author had me laughing one minute and then crying the next. And this story shows the importance of loving and respecting those you are close to. It’s a fantastic story that will warm your heart. Pearl and the others become more like friends, not just characters in a book.
August 18, 2013
Loved this book! I want to be friends with Pearl in real life. The author did such a great job making me feel a part of her world and caring about the characters. And some of the scenes were laugh-out-loud funny. A real treat. :)
July 28, 2014
This book has humor, emotion, a strong voice, and dialogue that lifts off the page. I enjoyed getting acquainted with Pearl and the other characters during the time span of reading the novel. This is a wonderful work of women’s lit featuring real issues about midlife, friends, and family.
August 15, 2016
Already a fan of Susan's blog, I expected to be entertained ... to chuckle and perhaps, shed a tear. I didn't expect to laugh out loud (OK, I guffawed) one moment, or sob like a little child the next.
Just wish there were more stars to be awarded!
Just wish there were more stars to be awarded!
February 21, 2019
Wisdom, Tears and Laughter. Pull up a chair!
I encountered this book the first time I read something by Susan Flett Swiderski (who is a very active and enjoyable blogger, among other things). She had a picture of a glass of lemonade with a twist of lemon, with the words 'Hot flashes & Cold Lemonade' on it. The photo itself was enjoyable. When I learned that it was actually a book cover, I had to pick up a copy. Being a cautious sort, I checked inside, skipped around the previews, and bought a copy.
The story starts out with a bang. Pearl is driving through her childhood neighborhood, remembering the happy moments, savoring the memories - and suddenly sees her father driving off with a woman who is not her mother. At her childhood home her mother has a couple pithy things to say about her husband and the situation. Reality - the existence of inconvenience, unhappiness and even tragedy - comes crashing down into Pearl's consciousness. And the story unfolds.
This book is a little like sitting down with someone you enjoy, who can tell a good story and somehow make a laundry list enjoyable. That is not to say that this book is a laugh-fest. it isn't. It touches a great many serious issues like adultery, aging, disillusionment, but it does so with a smile.
Wisdom and laughter are almost inseparable. Tears are not always tragic. And, sometimes, listening to someone telling a wise, deep story through laughter can stay with you longer than anything you have read to date.
Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is skillfully written. The narrative, while very enjoyable, allows the story to move on even as it collects little items to salt in among your consciousness.
I really enjoyed this book and would suggest it to anyone. I hope more are in the works.
I encountered this book the first time I read something by Susan Flett Swiderski (who is a very active and enjoyable blogger, among other things). She had a picture of a glass of lemonade with a twist of lemon, with the words 'Hot flashes & Cold Lemonade' on it. The photo itself was enjoyable. When I learned that it was actually a book cover, I had to pick up a copy. Being a cautious sort, I checked inside, skipped around the previews, and bought a copy.
The story starts out with a bang. Pearl is driving through her childhood neighborhood, remembering the happy moments, savoring the memories - and suddenly sees her father driving off with a woman who is not her mother. At her childhood home her mother has a couple pithy things to say about her husband and the situation. Reality - the existence of inconvenience, unhappiness and even tragedy - comes crashing down into Pearl's consciousness. And the story unfolds.
This book is a little like sitting down with someone you enjoy, who can tell a good story and somehow make a laundry list enjoyable. That is not to say that this book is a laugh-fest. it isn't. It touches a great many serious issues like adultery, aging, disillusionment, but it does so with a smile.
Wisdom and laughter are almost inseparable. Tears are not always tragic. And, sometimes, listening to someone telling a wise, deep story through laughter can stay with you longer than anything you have read to date.
Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is skillfully written. The narrative, while very enjoyable, allows the story to move on even as it collects little items to salt in among your consciousness.
I really enjoyed this book and would suggest it to anyone. I hope more are in the works.
January 28, 2018
It’s a first novel, self published, but not an entirely wild gamble. I have been reading Susan’s blog for eons, it’s a welcoming, humorous place to go, pretty sure every comment gets a response, and I really appreciate the work it must take to write and host.
Hot Flashes is a light toned novel, which I was expecting, given the hospitable bubbliness of the blog. The main protagonist, Pearl Bryzinski, has hit menopause, and her beloved Daddy has taken off (with that blue haired floory in the flashy brown Pinto). This throws a challenge to her usual positive demeanour, so everyday life has an immediate conflict. The plot uses this, along with a car crash, a heart attack, a trip to Atlantic City and some other things I don’t want to spoil, to highlight Pearl’s journey into seeing things as they really are, and being able to value what she really has. The characters are layered, believable, and able to drive the plot: this is the right way round for me. There’s some grittiness to the subject matter too - I was reading it thinking, this author has more to give. If I nitpick, I would say the incontinent friend, while a fabulous thing to be putting in a book, was a bit distracting, and the eldest son maybe needed a pinch more charm to really make sense of his success.
Loved the epilogue - suited my nosiness :-)
There’s talk of a next novel, totally different, which I’m really looking forward to. It’s a good thing, to see a talent developing.
Hot Flashes is a light toned novel, which I was expecting, given the hospitable bubbliness of the blog. The main protagonist, Pearl Bryzinski, has hit menopause, and her beloved Daddy has taken off (with that blue haired floory in the flashy brown Pinto). This throws a challenge to her usual positive demeanour, so everyday life has an immediate conflict. The plot uses this, along with a car crash, a heart attack, a trip to Atlantic City and some other things I don’t want to spoil, to highlight Pearl’s journey into seeing things as they really are, and being able to value what she really has. The characters are layered, believable, and able to drive the plot: this is the right way round for me. There’s some grittiness to the subject matter too - I was reading it thinking, this author has more to give. If I nitpick, I would say the incontinent friend, while a fabulous thing to be putting in a book, was a bit distracting, and the eldest son maybe needed a pinch more charm to really make sense of his success.
Loved the epilogue - suited my nosiness :-)
There’s talk of a next novel, totally different, which I’m really looking forward to. It’s a good thing, to see a talent developing.
January 18, 2018
This was one of those books that I didn't want to put down and, once it was over, I wanted to re-read it again and then rush out to buy the sequel (sadly, there isn't one).
It made me laugh out loud, it brought a tear to my eye, and reaffirmed one of life's greatest lessons – to push through the illusions of what we think people are or what we want them to be and instead accept them and love them for who they really are.
The author has a wickedly creative sense of humor, which she uses skillfully while exploring more serious issues that the main character, Pearl, is grappling with while she deals with the physical and emotional changes she is going through during menopause. Pearl is an immensely likable character (I wish I lived next door to her) and I loved watching her relationships with her husband, children, and friends evolve.
This book will delight any woman who is {ahem} of a certain age, as well as anyone else who enjoys funny, heart-warming, and poignant stories about relationships and personal growth.
It made me laugh out loud, it brought a tear to my eye, and reaffirmed one of life's greatest lessons – to push through the illusions of what we think people are or what we want them to be and instead accept them and love them for who they really are.
The author has a wickedly creative sense of humor, which she uses skillfully while exploring more serious issues that the main character, Pearl, is grappling with while she deals with the physical and emotional changes she is going through during menopause. Pearl is an immensely likable character (I wish I lived next door to her) and I loved watching her relationships with her husband, children, and friends evolve.
This book will delight any woman who is {ahem} of a certain age, as well as anyone else who enjoys funny, heart-warming, and poignant stories about relationships and personal growth.
January 10, 2020
She finds her strength. That sums up this book for me. So incredibly fun to read - even the epilogue is witty and detailed to perfection. But yes the main character, Pearl, she finds her strength. And with this even the heartbreaking moments are good. Read it. Cleanse your palette ‘cause this time, She carries on.
January 1, 2019
Went through the growing balls faze myself
This book was funny, sad and very eye opening. The characters were very unbelievable and could see the dysfunction in my own family. Looking forward to more of her writing
This book was funny, sad and very eye opening. The characters were very unbelievable and could see the dysfunction in my own family. Looking forward to more of her writing
November 20, 2015
The blurb gives the reader a good general idea of what the book is about. Pearl Bryzinski has spent most of her life living with rose-colored glasses on. If a positive spin can be put on anything, Pearl is the one to do it - even when she sees her dad leave her mom with another woman. Her mom Ida, doesn't shed a tear; just sells their house and moves to an apartment in an unsavory part of town.
Pearl's been married to her husband George forever, and has three great kids, Matt, MaryBeth, and her golden boy, Luke. After weeks of not feeling right, she finally decides to see a doctor, and finds that she's in the midst of her 'change of life' - menopause. Lucky for her she has a few great friends to count on, especially her best friend Candy to help her through.
From the situation with dad to her golden boy Luke and everything in between, Pearl realizes everything is not what it seems when she takes off the colored glasses. It's a story about how a woman in mid-life comes out of her shell and deals with the realities of life, love, and loss.
Hot Flashes and Cold Lemonade is a great read that I could relate to. It is well written and the story flows well. There scenes where I laughed and scenes I wanted to cry. The main characters are well fleshed out, with distinct personalities, quirks, and mannerisms. My only issue was the occasional change in POV mid-chapters. It could just be me and the brain thing.
Otherwise, I definitely recommend this book; I read it in two sittings.
Pearl's been married to her husband George forever, and has three great kids, Matt, MaryBeth, and her golden boy, Luke. After weeks of not feeling right, she finally decides to see a doctor, and finds that she's in the midst of her 'change of life' - menopause. Lucky for her she has a few great friends to count on, especially her best friend Candy to help her through.
From the situation with dad to her golden boy Luke and everything in between, Pearl realizes everything is not what it seems when she takes off the colored glasses. It's a story about how a woman in mid-life comes out of her shell and deals with the realities of life, love, and loss.
Hot Flashes and Cold Lemonade is a great read that I could relate to. It is well written and the story flows well. There scenes where I laughed and scenes I wanted to cry. The main characters are well fleshed out, with distinct personalities, quirks, and mannerisms. My only issue was the occasional change in POV mid-chapters. It could just be me and the brain thing.
Otherwise, I definitely recommend this book; I read it in two sittings.
May 3, 2016
Clever, funny, poignant. It's a story about life, and all its many ups and downs. Pearl is heading into menopause and she's beginning to question her life...though in all honesty, Pearl is so out of touch with her feelings, she is not even aware she is unhappy. She's sort of operating life on cruise control. Her hot flashes and mood swings bring out a little spirit in Pearl, and as she begins speaking her mind, she starts to get the answers she needs from her family, her husband, and her parents. This isn't just a fun story. This book is chock-full of goodness. Funny lines to make you laugh. Touching moments that make you want to cry. And a wisdom that leaves you sighing, even after the book is done.
November 15, 2014
From the first time I saw this title I was thinking this would be a great book for women, I now see it is a book for everyone.
Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is a fantastic story that will definitely touch you in one way or the other, you will find yourself laughing, crying, anxious, and sitting on the edge of your seat at times, this is a book you will have a hard time putting down.
Susan Flett Swiderski's book is well written and matches the dynamic of many families, the characters are believable and so real you will be reflecting on who they remind you of.
I have a hot flash for you, I highly recommend this book, it is one you will enjoy,
Hot Flashes & Cold Lemonade is a fantastic story that will definitely touch you in one way or the other, you will find yourself laughing, crying, anxious, and sitting on the edge of your seat at times, this is a book you will have a hard time putting down.
Susan Flett Swiderski's book is well written and matches the dynamic of many families, the characters are believable and so real you will be reflecting on who they remind you of.
I have a hot flash for you, I highly recommend this book, it is one you will enjoy,
April 30, 2015
This was a fun read, quite a few times I was laughing out loud, other times I was shedding a few tears.
It was quick easy read, the characters are engaging and likable, for the most part, some were a little over the top like Luke, and I thought the dialog between MaryBeth and Willy was just way to juvenile.
All in all this was a good book, and would defiantly recommend especially if you want to have all your emotions played with.
It was quick easy read, the characters are engaging and likable, for the most part, some were a little over the top like Luke, and I thought the dialog between MaryBeth and Willy was just way to juvenile.
All in all this was a good book, and would defiantly recommend especially if you want to have all your emotions played with.
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