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Four Friends
Gerri can't decide what's more devastating: learning her rock-solid marriage has big cracks, or the anger she feels as she tries to repair the damage. Always the anchor for friends and her three angst-ridden teenagers, it's time to look carefully at herself. The journey for Gerri and her family is more than revealing—it's transforming.
Andy doesn't have a great track record with men, and she's come to believe that for her a lasting love is out of reach. When she finds herself attracted to her down-to-earth, ordinary contractor—a man without any of the qualities that usually appeal to her—she questions everything she thought she wanted in life.
Sonja's lifelong pursuit of balance is shattered when her husband declares he's through with her New Age nonsense and walks out. There's no herbal tonic or cleansing ritual that can restore her serenity—or her sanity.
Miraculously, it's BJ, the reserved newcomer to Mill Valley, who steps into their circle and changes everything. The woman with dark secrets opens up to her neighbors, and together they get each other back on track, stronger as individuals and unfaltering as friends.
Andy doesn't have a great track record with men, and she's come to believe that for her a lasting love is out of reach. When she finds herself attracted to her down-to-earth, ordinary contractor—a man without any of the qualities that usually appeal to her—she questions everything she thought she wanted in life.
Sonja's lifelong pursuit of balance is shattered when her husband declares he's through with her New Age nonsense and walks out. There's no herbal tonic or cleansing ritual that can restore her serenity—or her sanity.
Miraculously, it's BJ, the reserved newcomer to Mill Valley, who steps into their circle and changes everything. The woman with dark secrets opens up to her neighbors, and together they get each other back on track, stronger as individuals and unfaltering as friends.
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 25, 2014
1806 people are currently reading
5488 people want to read
About the author
Robyn Carr
161 books12.6k followers Robyn Carr is a RITA® Award-winning, eleven-time #1 New York Times bestselling author of over sixty novels, including the critically acclaimed Virgin River series and Sullivan's Crossing series. Robyn's new women's fiction novel, THE FRIENDSHIP CLUB, will be released in January 2024. The new hit Sullivan's Crossing TV series (season 1) inspired by Robyn's book series was released in the USA in the fall of 2023! Plus, season 5 of the worldwide fan-favorite Virgin River TV Series is now streaming on Netflix (July 2023) with two holiday episodes coming November 30, 2023. Both TV series have been renewed for another season!
Robyn is a recipient of the Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award 2016, and in 2017, VIRGIN RIVER was named one of the HarperCollins 200 Iconic Books of the past 200 years. Robyn currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can visit Robyn Carr's website at https://www.robyncarr.com/.
Robyn is a recipient of the Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award 2016, and in 2017, VIRGIN RIVER was named one of the HarperCollins 200 Iconic Books of the past 200 years. Robyn currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can visit Robyn Carr's website at https://www.robyncarr.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 989 reviews
May 8, 2018
I decided to try this story simply because it seemed to be a larger extension of the contemporary fiction aspect of Robyn Carr's Thunder Point series, which I am enjoying immensely. My instincts were dead on as Four Friends is quite the masterpiece.
The story centers around three friends who live in the same neighborhood, actually on the same street. The fourth emerges later as she's relatively new. In the space of a few weeks, their contented lives are completely upended when each experience strife in their marriages.
The friends
Gerri Gilbert, who is considered to have the best, most successful marriage faces a serious challenge as she contemplates ending her relationship with her husband, Phil. The impact on the lives of her children sends the family into chaos as she reluctantly examines her role in the matter.
Andy Jamison has to come to terms with the inevitable end of her second marriage and the choices she's made that have her ending up in the same place and feeling unfulfilled. She finds support, friendship and deep affection from the most unlikely person, while her son and friends struggle to accept the sincerity of her feelings.
Sonja Johanson, the one who seemed to be the most in control and spiritually grounded literally unravels before her friends eyes when confronted with a life-altering course. Her journey back is remarkable.
BJ Smith is the mysterious new neighbor who unwittingly provides grounding for the three friends, seeing what they didn't have the ability to notice right in front of them. Her pragmatism and detachment made a difference in an odd way and slowly she becomes swept up in the friendship with the women, who embrace her and provide support when she needed it.
The bottom line
I was enthralled by this book and couldn't put it down. Each of these women's stories touched me and I connected with some aspect of their lives. I felt what they felt when they experienced it and loved their honesty. The romances are unconventional and sexy in their own right. This is a story of substance, not always comfortable to read but definitely one I wanted to stay with. If you like contemporary fiction with elements of romance, you'll love this story.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
The story centers around three friends who live in the same neighborhood, actually on the same street. The fourth emerges later as she's relatively new. In the space of a few weeks, their contented lives are completely upended when each experience strife in their marriages.
The friends
Gerri Gilbert, who is considered to have the best, most successful marriage faces a serious challenge as she contemplates ending her relationship with her husband, Phil. The impact on the lives of her children sends the family into chaos as she reluctantly examines her role in the matter.
Andy Jamison has to come to terms with the inevitable end of her second marriage and the choices she's made that have her ending up in the same place and feeling unfulfilled. She finds support, friendship and deep affection from the most unlikely person, while her son and friends struggle to accept the sincerity of her feelings.
Sonja Johanson, the one who seemed to be the most in control and spiritually grounded literally unravels before her friends eyes when confronted with a life-altering course. Her journey back is remarkable.
BJ Smith is the mysterious new neighbor who unwittingly provides grounding for the three friends, seeing what they didn't have the ability to notice right in front of them. Her pragmatism and detachment made a difference in an odd way and slowly she becomes swept up in the friendship with the women, who embrace her and provide support when she needed it.
The bottom line
I was enthralled by this book and couldn't put it down. Each of these women's stories touched me and I connected with some aspect of their lives. I felt what they felt when they experienced it and loved their honesty. The romances are unconventional and sexy in their own right. This is a story of substance, not always comfortable to read but definitely one I wanted to stay with. If you like contemporary fiction with elements of romance, you'll love this story.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
June 30, 2014
This book is ridiculous.
This is the first Robyn Carr book I've read. I was excited to read this book because I've heard that Carr is a good writer and I was looking to spice up my reading selection. That being said, this book was not good.
My favorite character was Beau...a dog. Every other main character was over the top. Carr tried to convey their personalities so much so that they all came off as being on the extreme end of their personality spectrum. She tried to paint Sonja as the crazy one, but really they all came off as ridiculous. There were multiple points throughout the book where I cringed and thought "Who would say that?! No one would say that in real life!"
As for the storylines, it annoyed me that each character had an overly dramatic situation going on throughout the book in which they each struggled to wrap their minds around, and then at the end everything was wrapped up nice and neat as though it had never really been a huge issue for them.
Gerri's character and her situation with her husband annoyed me the most. Gerri's husband cheated on her a few years prior but Gerri only just found out about it after someone at her husband's office let it slip. Gerri was justifiably hurt and angry. One of her main struggles was in trying to get her husband and her children to understand why she was so upset and why she asked her husband to move out of the family home. On the surface, her husband seemed to accept responsibility for what he did, but would always go back to how he was driven to cheat on Gerri because of the lack of romance in their marriage.
What drove me even more crazy was that Gerri kept saying to people how her husband was a good and honest man and that he proved that by confirming to her that he had an affair when Gerri confronted him about it. I don't know about other people but I don't consider that being a good and honest person...that's called lying by omission. But Gerri's character just accepts it and at the end of the book, only months after she found out about her husband's affair, was joking with him about it as though it were a little quirk he had and was working on improving. Ugh!
Amazingly, despite the over the top characters and story lines, I was able to get through this book because Carr's technical writing ability was evident and managed to keep the story flowing along. That, along with Beau and the fact that the women liked wine (which I completely relate with!), were the only things I liked about this book.
This is the first Robyn Carr book I've read. I was excited to read this book because I've heard that Carr is a good writer and I was looking to spice up my reading selection. That being said, this book was not good.
My favorite character was Beau...a dog. Every other main character was over the top. Carr tried to convey their personalities so much so that they all came off as being on the extreme end of their personality spectrum. She tried to paint Sonja as the crazy one, but really they all came off as ridiculous. There were multiple points throughout the book where I cringed and thought "Who would say that?! No one would say that in real life!"
As for the storylines, it annoyed me that each character had an overly dramatic situation going on throughout the book in which they each struggled to wrap their minds around, and then at the end everything was wrapped up nice and neat as though it had never really been a huge issue for them.
Gerri's character and her situation with her husband annoyed me the most. Gerri's husband cheated on her a few years prior but Gerri only just found out about it after someone at her husband's office let it slip. Gerri was justifiably hurt and angry. One of her main struggles was in trying to get her husband and her children to understand why she was so upset and why she asked her husband to move out of the family home. On the surface, her husband seemed to accept responsibility for what he did, but would always go back to how he was driven to cheat on Gerri because of the lack of romance in their marriage.
What drove me even more crazy was that Gerri kept saying to people how her husband was a good and honest man and that he proved that by confirming to her that he had an affair when Gerri confronted him about it. I don't know about other people but I don't consider that being a good and honest person...that's called lying by omission. But Gerri's character just accepts it and at the end of the book, only months after she found out about her husband's affair, was joking with him about it as though it were a little quirk he had and was working on improving. Ugh!
Amazingly, despite the over the top characters and story lines, I was able to get through this book because Carr's technical writing ability was evident and managed to keep the story flowing along. That, along with Beau and the fact that the women liked wine (which I completely relate with!), were the only things I liked about this book.
April 20, 2014
I always look forward to a new Robyn Carr book; I'm a great fan of her Virgin River books, but this stand alone novel fell flat for me. Too much drama, too many unlikely coincidences, and worst of all, a main character who I was unable to sympathize with because I simply didn't like her. The only characters I cared about were Bob and his dog!
I saw a review that compared this book to The House on Olive Street, also written by Carr. I didn't care for that book either - from now on I'll stick to Carr's romance series.
I saw a review that compared this book to The House on Olive Street, also written by Carr. I didn't care for that book either - from now on I'll stick to Carr's romance series.
May 1, 2014
4.5 stars
I have to admit that it took me a while to actually start this book. Just wasn't in the mood for it I guess, but once I did make it through the fist chapter I could hardly put it down.
Anyway, this is a story of four friends:
Gerri always considered her life to be happy, and other than her work, smooth sailing. And then she found out her husband had an affair six years ago, and it seems so fragile, her life, kids, and especially marriage.
Andy, Andy hasn't had much luck with men. After 2 failed marriages and four boyfriends, she still didn't meet one that would stick by her side. But this second divorce is taking its toll. The only one who makes it seem better is her very-ordinary looking contractor.
Then there's Sonja. Sonja's always been into New Age stuff, but she never realized how much people minded it. Having her husband walk out because he couldn't stand it anymore was a nasty wake up call.
And lastly, there's BJ the silent new neighbor. She's got secrets. Bad ones. But she never hesitated to step in when she thought she could help.
I liked all of them, but their friendship is what makes them shine. Through all the bad stuff, through their lives falling apart, they managed to maintain it.
But my favorite story line was Gerri. Her husband, Phil, her children all of it. Well, her and Andy. I just love Bob (the contractor).
It was gratifying seeing the four strong women find their way in a dark period of their lives. Strongly recommended.
I'm not a big reader of Women's Fiction, but there's something about this book that made it impossible for me not to like it.
ARC received from Harlequin via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit that it took me a while to actually start this book. Just wasn't in the mood for it I guess, but once I did make it through the fist chapter I could hardly put it down.
Anyway, this is a story of four friends:
Gerri always considered her life to be happy, and other than her work, smooth sailing. And then she found out her husband had an affair six years ago, and it seems so fragile, her life, kids, and especially marriage.
Andy, Andy hasn't had much luck with men. After 2 failed marriages and four boyfriends, she still didn't meet one that would stick by her side. But this second divorce is taking its toll. The only one who makes it seem better is her very-ordinary looking contractor.
Then there's Sonja. Sonja's always been into New Age stuff, but she never realized how much people minded it. Having her husband walk out because he couldn't stand it anymore was a nasty wake up call.
And lastly, there's BJ the silent new neighbor. She's got secrets. Bad ones. But she never hesitated to step in when she thought she could help.
I liked all of them, but their friendship is what makes them shine. Through all the bad stuff, through their lives falling apart, they managed to maintain it.
But my favorite story line was Gerri. Her husband, Phil, her children all of it. Well, her and Andy. I just love Bob (the contractor).
It was gratifying seeing the four strong women find their way in a dark period of their lives. Strongly recommended.
I'm not a big reader of Women's Fiction, but there's something about this book that made it impossible for me not to like it.
ARC received from Harlequin via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2017
I may be in the minority but I lost interest in this book more times than once. I usually like all of Robyn Carr's books but this one was a disappointment.
July 10, 2019
Γλυκούλι άρλεκιν....μα τι μ' έχει πιάσει;;;; βοήθεια αδερφοί!!!!!
May 9, 2014
4 stars!
It's so weird to read about a book where one of the main MCs has the same name (almost) as you. Weird. Very weird. But still enjoyable.
It's so weird to read about a book where one of the main MCs has the same name (almost) as you. Weird. Very weird. But still enjoyable.
March 28, 2014
Three women, neighbours and friends, find themselves facing marriages that are falling apart. Then a neighbour who moved in 12 months earlier but has always avoided any overtures of friendship steps in and through simple acts of kindness manages to bring them even closer and mover them towards healing.
Four Friends is a book which doesn't neatly fit into its genre. It's contemporary romance and as you would expect from contemporary romance everything is neatly tied up at the end. But life is messy and the issues Robyn Carr is exploring are some of the messiest of all. However, written as contemporary romance I loved this book...and I don't think I would say that if it was written with a more "chick lit" aesthetic.
The book reminded me a lot of a previous book by Robyn Carr, Summer in Sonoma. Both books deal with four female friends facing some difficult life challenges but where Summer in Sonoma focuses on women from their late 20s to early 40s, Four Friends is about women who are a little older, from their late 30s to early 50s.
It's a very satisfying book for fans of Robyn Carr and contemporary romance.
Gerri has always relied on the rock solid partnership she has with her husband. Even if their sex lives aren't what they were they are partners in every sense. Then she discovers that five years earlier her husband had an affair.
Andy kicks her husband out after discovering he is a serial cheater. She opens up to the carpenter who has been remodelling her kitchen. Over the weeks she comes to value his steadiness and wisdom. She finds herself falling in love but has a hard time trusting her feelings.
Sonja is a health food fanatic who teacher yoga and advises people on the feng shui of their homes. But when her husband walks out on her, her carefully constructed world crumbles around her and she descends into severe depression.
BJ arrived in the neighbourhood 12 months earlier. But she has a secret that she needs to guard for the sake of her children and keeps to herself.
Four Friends is a book which doesn't neatly fit into its genre. It's contemporary romance and as you would expect from contemporary romance everything is neatly tied up at the end. But life is messy and the issues Robyn Carr is exploring are some of the messiest of all. However, written as contemporary romance I loved this book...and I don't think I would say that if it was written with a more "chick lit" aesthetic.
The book reminded me a lot of a previous book by Robyn Carr, Summer in Sonoma. Both books deal with four female friends facing some difficult life challenges but where Summer in Sonoma focuses on women from their late 20s to early 40s, Four Friends is about women who are a little older, from their late 30s to early 50s.
It's a very satisfying book for fans of Robyn Carr and contemporary romance.
December 8, 2019
I did not mind this book, it was an interesting journey of four friends with very different issues. From the moment I read it the story that really got to me was Gerri's and Phil's. I have read many reviews about how they thought Gerri kept going on, which in my opinion is unfair as she found out her husband had had a two year affair, which is a massive issue, and she had every right to go a bit crazy, just because it was years ago made no difference, to her it was new and fresh and a massive portrayal. However, everyone is entitled to their opinion. I agree with other reviewers that Gerri was portrayed as a nag and Phil was a romanticised as poor mortal who made a mistake but should be forgiven. I found his attitude lacking. I contacted Robyn Carr directly with my concerns and while we disagreeed a bout Phil(Robyn felt he was repentant and willing to do anything for his family, I felt he did not much but each to their own), she was kind enough to give me a detialed reply and I really appreciate that. I have cope and posted my letter with her which details all my problems with Phil and his story in this book who's is as follows:
Thank you so much for your reply! I agree with you to a certain extent, I believe in some parts Phil seemed generally remorseful and strong which I respected! When things like this were written 'Phil was a good father. Not just good, but excellent. And he’d been a committed partner, through the worst crap. He’d been a rock through death, disaster and at least a couple of years of Gerri’s hot-flashing, sweating and mood swings that jolted her unpredictably. As a provider, no question—he not only put in long hours and made a good living, but he pursued an honorable task, working on the side of justice. Given what she did for a living, that meant a great deal.' And 'He looked down for a moment, then raised his eyes and looked right at her. “I think there’s too much right about what we have for us not to make it.” I completely understood! But he said a lot of thoughtless selfish things such as: 'But really, there should be a statute of limitations on shit like this— I screwed up, I haven’t screwed up since and you can be damn sure it won’t happen again. And it was a long, long time ago.”
“Who is she?”
“No,” he said without hesitation. “She’s gone. It’s over. We haven’t had any contact in over five years and there’s nothing to be gained.”
“I might have to see her,” Gerri said.
“No,” he answered again. “I don’t know where she is, what her life is like, but I’ve messed up my life enough. There’s no point in messing up hers, as well' the fact that he was worried about the other woman probably makes him a good man but a fool to say to his distraught wife, she is priority to anyone else's feelings! The other warn was not some you innocent bystander she knew damage could be done so in my opinion she is not a priority! Also a statue of limitations on a 2 year affair how ridiculous to say! As if so much time ha passed it shouldn't matter! That's when I doubted his actual regret or guilt!
I also agreed with Gerri's statement: “See, right now you’re just too goddamn calm,” she said. “Like you’ve been ready for this day for a long time and had it all planned, what you were going to say, how you were going to play it. You lawyered up—you strategized it.”
This comment made me want to slap him if I am honest! There is being a good person and there is being a fool!
" I feel as bad about what I did to her as what I’ve done to you.” This woman was not his wife or mother of his children but a grown woman who happily embarked on an affair with him knowing he loved his wife, who would have happily stolen him in a heartbeat! He dares to compare her hurt to his wife of 20 years, the mother of his children who he lied to for years? I don't think so!
I honestly know Gerri was cold and distant and did not communicate properly with Phil but primarily he was the one who put their family at risk and she did get a lot of blame, from friends who said she should be over it which she even says herself, and the children! I felt her pain so badly that she was the bad guy even though she was in pain!
It is,” she said, suddenly hurting all over again. “It’s my fault I can’t live with you because of it, my fault I found out, my fault I got mad about it.... You spent two years boinking some woman from the office, but three weeks is too long for me to be upset about it! What is it with mothers, huh? Why is everything in the whole goddamn world always the mother’s fault?”
I did find the children's reactions weird if I am honest I know it is hard and they were in pain but none of them seemed upset with their dad, of that was me and my sisters I would find it hard to look him on the eye! I found their idea that the mum should put up forgive and get over it crazy! It was as if years between the betrayal washed it away! I don't know many people who think like that! His mums reaction saying it was his mistake and she was disappointed seemed most realistic!
"The stupid fool! He made a mistake! Sooner or later you’ll have to let it be his mistake. Lord, I think I might kill him.”
I found Phil harsh and childish when Gerri was realistic and mentioned divorce, I know it was painful but he reacted like an arrogant man and was intimidating in my opinion!
“Fine, if that’s what you need. But I think of this as a temporary separation while we work on our problems. I don’t see it as a separation preceding divorce. When you start talking divorce, you put me in a whole different place.”
“The lawyer place?” she asked sarcastically.
“The father place. The abandoned spouse place.”
“You abandoned me for her!”
“No,” he said calmly. “Not for one hour of one day. What I did was wrong, but let’s stay clear on what I didn’t do.”
This was the kind of thing he said that I wanted to hear
More of!
He looked down for a moment, then raised his eyes and looked right at her. “I think there’s too much right about what we have for us not to make it.”
But he than completely contradicted himself by saying:
“I want it like it should be,” he said. “I’m not sure that can happen.”
He was basically saying they might not make it I was confused!
I know people can make peace with mistresses and they are not evil people they are human! However, the calm friendly meeting that took place seemed a bit of a stretch to me, regretting you cannot be friends with the woman who was intimate with your husband for years, who would have happily as she admitted took him away from you and your young children did not ring true with me! Also, if Elizabeth was so nice she would not have entertained Phil divorcing Gerri, she also would have left him in peace when he tried to do the right thing and concentrate on his family, not try and keep contacting him!
It took a lot for him to lose patience, to harden up, to say, ‘Stop bothering me!’ The cards and emails suggested he’d had to say it’s over more than once. Finally, he simply stopped responding.
Also I know she was only telling the truth, but Gerri is the wronged party and in pain and Elizabeth did not try to cushion that at all!
"Wait a minute,” Elizabeth said. “I was drawn to him for many reasons, but I don’t care what he might’ve said, I didn’t make a move. I swear to you. I probably sent out signals because I couldn’t help it, but I never..."
This quote really outlined Gerri's pain!
But she was not everything to him.
I understand no one is perfect but I felt Gerri was made to take too much responsibility. Also, did Phil love Elizabeth all signs say no, he was vulnerable and she was a temporary replacement for his wife who was lost to him? Thank you!
Thank you so much for your reply! I agree with you to a certain extent, I believe in some parts Phil seemed generally remorseful and strong which I respected! When things like this were written 'Phil was a good father. Not just good, but excellent. And he’d been a committed partner, through the worst crap. He’d been a rock through death, disaster and at least a couple of years of Gerri’s hot-flashing, sweating and mood swings that jolted her unpredictably. As a provider, no question—he not only put in long hours and made a good living, but he pursued an honorable task, working on the side of justice. Given what she did for a living, that meant a great deal.' And 'He looked down for a moment, then raised his eyes and looked right at her. “I think there’s too much right about what we have for us not to make it.” I completely understood! But he said a lot of thoughtless selfish things such as: 'But really, there should be a statute of limitations on shit like this— I screwed up, I haven’t screwed up since and you can be damn sure it won’t happen again. And it was a long, long time ago.”
“Who is she?”
“No,” he said without hesitation. “She’s gone. It’s over. We haven’t had any contact in over five years and there’s nothing to be gained.”
“I might have to see her,” Gerri said.
“No,” he answered again. “I don’t know where she is, what her life is like, but I’ve messed up my life enough. There’s no point in messing up hers, as well' the fact that he was worried about the other woman probably makes him a good man but a fool to say to his distraught wife, she is priority to anyone else's feelings! The other warn was not some you innocent bystander she knew damage could be done so in my opinion she is not a priority! Also a statue of limitations on a 2 year affair how ridiculous to say! As if so much time ha passed it shouldn't matter! That's when I doubted his actual regret or guilt!
I also agreed with Gerri's statement: “See, right now you’re just too goddamn calm,” she said. “Like you’ve been ready for this day for a long time and had it all planned, what you were going to say, how you were going to play it. You lawyered up—you strategized it.”
This comment made me want to slap him if I am honest! There is being a good person and there is being a fool!
" I feel as bad about what I did to her as what I’ve done to you.” This woman was not his wife or mother of his children but a grown woman who happily embarked on an affair with him knowing he loved his wife, who would have happily stolen him in a heartbeat! He dares to compare her hurt to his wife of 20 years, the mother of his children who he lied to for years? I don't think so!
I honestly know Gerri was cold and distant and did not communicate properly with Phil but primarily he was the one who put their family at risk and she did get a lot of blame, from friends who said she should be over it which she even says herself, and the children! I felt her pain so badly that she was the bad guy even though she was in pain!
It is,” she said, suddenly hurting all over again. “It’s my fault I can’t live with you because of it, my fault I found out, my fault I got mad about it.... You spent two years boinking some woman from the office, but three weeks is too long for me to be upset about it! What is it with mothers, huh? Why is everything in the whole goddamn world always the mother’s fault?”
I did find the children's reactions weird if I am honest I know it is hard and they were in pain but none of them seemed upset with their dad, of that was me and my sisters I would find it hard to look him on the eye! I found their idea that the mum should put up forgive and get over it crazy! It was as if years between the betrayal washed it away! I don't know many people who think like that! His mums reaction saying it was his mistake and she was disappointed seemed most realistic!
"The stupid fool! He made a mistake! Sooner or later you’ll have to let it be his mistake. Lord, I think I might kill him.”
I found Phil harsh and childish when Gerri was realistic and mentioned divorce, I know it was painful but he reacted like an arrogant man and was intimidating in my opinion!
“Fine, if that’s what you need. But I think of this as a temporary separation while we work on our problems. I don’t see it as a separation preceding divorce. When you start talking divorce, you put me in a whole different place.”
“The lawyer place?” she asked sarcastically.
“The father place. The abandoned spouse place.”
“You abandoned me for her!”
“No,” he said calmly. “Not for one hour of one day. What I did was wrong, but let’s stay clear on what I didn’t do.”
This was the kind of thing he said that I wanted to hear
More of!
He looked down for a moment, then raised his eyes and looked right at her. “I think there’s too much right about what we have for us not to make it.”
But he than completely contradicted himself by saying:
“I want it like it should be,” he said. “I’m not sure that can happen.”
He was basically saying they might not make it I was confused!
I know people can make peace with mistresses and they are not evil people they are human! However, the calm friendly meeting that took place seemed a bit of a stretch to me, regretting you cannot be friends with the woman who was intimate with your husband for years, who would have happily as she admitted took him away from you and your young children did not ring true with me! Also, if Elizabeth was so nice she would not have entertained Phil divorcing Gerri, she also would have left him in peace when he tried to do the right thing and concentrate on his family, not try and keep contacting him!
It took a lot for him to lose patience, to harden up, to say, ‘Stop bothering me!’ The cards and emails suggested he’d had to say it’s over more than once. Finally, he simply stopped responding.
Also I know she was only telling the truth, but Gerri is the wronged party and in pain and Elizabeth did not try to cushion that at all!
"Wait a minute,” Elizabeth said. “I was drawn to him for many reasons, but I don’t care what he might’ve said, I didn’t make a move. I swear to you. I probably sent out signals because I couldn’t help it, but I never..."
This quote really outlined Gerri's pain!
But she was not everything to him.
I understand no one is perfect but I felt Gerri was made to take too much responsibility. Also, did Phil love Elizabeth all signs say no, he was vulnerable and she was a temporary replacement for his wife who was lost to him? Thank you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2021
My first Robyn Carr and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it.
Four neighbors, three friends and one new to the street, find themselves at crossroads in their lives and marriages.
MASH Easter Egg…. BJ from Mill Valley—actually I downloaded the book in April 2020, but didn’t read it because I found this weird—I’m very glad I got over myself.
Four neighbors, three friends and one new to the street, find themselves at crossroads in their lives and marriages.
MASH Easter Egg…. BJ from Mill Valley—actually I downloaded the book in April 2020, but didn’t read it because I found this weird—I’m very glad I got over myself.
May 11, 2014
Dead on arrival. Every once in a while a book comes along that is so boring it is excruciating to read. This was one of them. I got to page 200 and asked myself why I was torturing myself with such a snoozefest. I didn't care about the characters or the plot (was there a plot?), and I found myself siding with all the ex-husbands--I'd be running away from these women if I could. I will say, however, that I could see this getting turned into a movie starring aging Hollywood actresses--Julia Roberts, Sandra Bullock, Rene Zellweger...you get the idea. ZzzzZzzzz
DNF
DNF
August 18, 2020
I'm such a huge fan of Carr, but this one was a complete miss. There was endless drama and depressing plots. This definitely wasn't the heart warming book I anticipated.
July 4, 2019
I picked up this book after a recommendation from a blogger I follow. I am very glad I did. This is a story about friendship. Listening, supporting, sharing and loving unconditionally, all things that true friends share. This story centers around three friends who live on the same street. The fourth friend emerges later as she's relatively new in the neighbourhood. In the space of a few weeks, their contented lives are completely upended when each experiences a crisis in their happy life.
Gerri Gilbert, Andy Jamison, and Sonja Johanson, are women in their forties who thought they were happy with happy marriages and children. When their life implodes, it is the support of each other and new neighbour BJ Smith who helps them come out on top. As they learn about BJ and her life, they step up to help her, not wanting to lose their new friend. These women are like sisters of the heart. The story addresses the challenges many 40-something women face, such as infidelity, divorce, raising teenagers, and depression, in a relatable, down-to-earth way. I felt for these women as they dealt with the issues that upended them and left them scrambling to find the life they thought they wanted. The men in the story range from creepy lowlifes, selfish and immature to caring and nurturing. Bob, was amazing and I would love to have him in my life.
As the women deal with their issues, family dynamics and problems, jobs and love interests, there is a constant theme, friendship. It’s the strong bond between the four women that sees them through and makes them stronger in the end. I greatly enjoyed meeting these four friends, and I’d this book to fans of women’s fiction.
Gerri Gilbert, Andy Jamison, and Sonja Johanson, are women in their forties who thought they were happy with happy marriages and children. When their life implodes, it is the support of each other and new neighbour BJ Smith who helps them come out on top. As they learn about BJ and her life, they step up to help her, not wanting to lose their new friend. These women are like sisters of the heart. The story addresses the challenges many 40-something women face, such as infidelity, divorce, raising teenagers, and depression, in a relatable, down-to-earth way. I felt for these women as they dealt with the issues that upended them and left them scrambling to find the life they thought they wanted. The men in the story range from creepy lowlifes, selfish and immature to caring and nurturing. Bob, was amazing and I would love to have him in my life.
As the women deal with their issues, family dynamics and problems, jobs and love interests, there is a constant theme, friendship. It’s the strong bond between the four women that sees them through and makes them stronger in the end. I greatly enjoyed meeting these four friends, and I’d this book to fans of women’s fiction.
January 10, 2019
I don't know. Maybe it was just me, but I felt like the author is saying the way out of a marital infidelity crisis is through hormones. And lots and lots of talking and arguing. And then hot sex brought on by the hormones. And of course his infidelity was the wife's fault because she wasn't "there" enough for him when she was going through menopause and the illnesses and deaths of her parents.
I liked the "women and friendship" aspects of this, but the infidelity part is irritating.
I liked the "women and friendship" aspects of this, but the infidelity part is irritating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2021
A heartwarming story about family @nd friends.
September 16, 2021
Reminded me a bit of Desperate Housewives setting but very realistic and relatable. I was totally engaged. Loved it!
December 21, 2014
Hotness Rating 2 out of 5
I loved this book! If you are like me you read romance for escape. When I read a book I want to read the fantasy, the feel-good, hot, sexy lives of fabulous people. I admit there has been times that I've wondered what it would be like to read about a real marriage. Would it be boring? Would it be too dull with the day to day chores? How on earth could a writer spice it up enough to make it an enjoyable read? Robyn Carr has answered all of these questions and she did it with a thoroughly enjoyable story surrounding 4 women that have different experiences, but real lives.
Gerri is super mom that has always felt like it was her and her husband against the world. They raised their kids as a team and attacked the day having each other's backs. Sure their life isn't perfect, but it's solid. At least that's what she thought until she finds out that her husband had an affair a few years before. The affair has been over for a long, long time. Her husband is ashamed of himself and would never do anything to risk the happiness of his family again. None of that matters right now. Gerri's world is rocked and her journey of working through it was inspirational.
Andy has just kicked her second husband out in a truly spectacular fashion. She has a gift for picking self-centered immature men and she's so over it. Right now she has to concentrate on the most important man in her life and that's her teenage son. He's getting into trouble and being an all-around pain in the butt. While dealing with all of this Andy finds support and a shoulder from not only her best girls, but the handyman that is finishing her kitchen. The closer it comes to the kitchen being done the sadder Andy finds herself becoming. He's not her usual hot guy with a big ego. He's real and sweet. Andy can't believe how much he's come to mean to her in such a short time.
Sonja is a new-age guru that works so hard to keep her life and the lives of her loved one's balanced and happy. All of this work to keep everything perfect has taken it's toll on her body and mind. So, when her husband tells her one day that he can't take all of her new-age mumbo jumbo anymore and he walks out she's left drifting. Her entire life and all that she's worked for just falls down around her. Her body shuts down, as well as her mind. Thank goodness that she has great friends to see the signs and get her the help she needs.
B.J.'s story is a bit different than the rest of these ladies. B.J. was married to an abusive man that hurt her and their two beautiful children every chance he got. B.J. finally fought back and got out of her situation by drastic means. Now, she's left to raise her kids alone and try to get her life back on track. She's afraid to trust and has no interest in making friends. Lucky for her that Gerri, Andy and Sonja refuse to take no for an answer.
This story was so good. All of these women's stories were good and fun to read. At no point did you think to yourself "this real life stuff is boring". I loved how every word weaved these characters together, but also gave them their individuality. Robyn Carr has a true talent and I'm so glad to have come across this story.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
I loved this book! If you are like me you read romance for escape. When I read a book I want to read the fantasy, the feel-good, hot, sexy lives of fabulous people. I admit there has been times that I've wondered what it would be like to read about a real marriage. Would it be boring? Would it be too dull with the day to day chores? How on earth could a writer spice it up enough to make it an enjoyable read? Robyn Carr has answered all of these questions and she did it with a thoroughly enjoyable story surrounding 4 women that have different experiences, but real lives.
Gerri is super mom that has always felt like it was her and her husband against the world. They raised their kids as a team and attacked the day having each other's backs. Sure their life isn't perfect, but it's solid. At least that's what she thought until she finds out that her husband had an affair a few years before. The affair has been over for a long, long time. Her husband is ashamed of himself and would never do anything to risk the happiness of his family again. None of that matters right now. Gerri's world is rocked and her journey of working through it was inspirational.
Andy has just kicked her second husband out in a truly spectacular fashion. She has a gift for picking self-centered immature men and she's so over it. Right now she has to concentrate on the most important man in her life and that's her teenage son. He's getting into trouble and being an all-around pain in the butt. While dealing with all of this Andy finds support and a shoulder from not only her best girls, but the handyman that is finishing her kitchen. The closer it comes to the kitchen being done the sadder Andy finds herself becoming. He's not her usual hot guy with a big ego. He's real and sweet. Andy can't believe how much he's come to mean to her in such a short time.
Sonja is a new-age guru that works so hard to keep her life and the lives of her loved one's balanced and happy. All of this work to keep everything perfect has taken it's toll on her body and mind. So, when her husband tells her one day that he can't take all of her new-age mumbo jumbo anymore and he walks out she's left drifting. Her entire life and all that she's worked for just falls down around her. Her body shuts down, as well as her mind. Thank goodness that she has great friends to see the signs and get her the help she needs.
B.J.'s story is a bit different than the rest of these ladies. B.J. was married to an abusive man that hurt her and their two beautiful children every chance he got. B.J. finally fought back and got out of her situation by drastic means. Now, she's left to raise her kids alone and try to get her life back on track. She's afraid to trust and has no interest in making friends. Lucky for her that Gerri, Andy and Sonja refuse to take no for an answer.
This story was so good. All of these women's stories were good and fun to read. At no point did you think to yourself "this real life stuff is boring". I loved how every word weaved these characters together, but also gave them their individuality. Robyn Carr has a true talent and I'm so glad to have come across this story.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
March 22, 2014
Absolutely fabulous book! Four women in the same neighborhood find themselves in crisis one after the other. First Andy kick outs her cheating sleazoid husband. Then, Gerri discovers that her perfect marriage isn't so perfect after all. She is forced to look at what her perception of the perfect marriage is and why she and her husband are having problems. The third woman, Sonja, is a free spirited new ager whose husband leaves her flat and repudiates her entire values system causing her to have a serious breakdown. The last neighbor,BJ, is new to the area and keeps to herself, only becoming involved when she has to intervene when Sonja goes under.
What I really liked about this book was that except for Andy's husband, none of the other men were really villains in the story. Both Gerri and Sonja had underlying issues that led to problems in the marriage and that they never recognized. Their husbands weren't blameless but they also were not totally at fault for the problems. Andy had to look at her choices in her first two marriages and discover why she went for losers. She also had to learn to accept love when it didn't come in a pretty package. In BJ's case she had secrets in her past that affected her ability to befriend her neighbors and accept their offers of friendship. All of the characters were very well done and made you care about what happened to them and their families (including some misbehaving children).
I could not read this book fast enough and was sad to reach the end. As always, this Robyn Carr book is an excellent read that will leave you wanting more.
What I really liked about this book was that except for Andy's husband, none of the other men were really villains in the story. Both Gerri and Sonja had underlying issues that led to problems in the marriage and that they never recognized. Their husbands weren't blameless but they also were not totally at fault for the problems. Andy had to look at her choices in her first two marriages and discover why she went for losers. She also had to learn to accept love when it didn't come in a pretty package. In BJ's case she had secrets in her past that affected her ability to befriend her neighbors and accept their offers of friendship. All of the characters were very well done and made you care about what happened to them and their families (including some misbehaving children).
I could not read this book fast enough and was sad to reach the end. As always, this Robyn Carr book is an excellent read that will leave you wanting more.
January 8, 2018
RATING: 4 STARS
(Review Not on Blog)
Listened to on Audio
"Gerri can't decide what's more devastating: learning her rock-solid marriage has big cracks, or the anger she feels as she tries to repair the damage. Always the anchor for friends and her three angst-ridden teenagers, it's time to look carefully at herself. The journey for Gerri and her family is more than revealing—it's transforming.
Andy doesn't have a great track record with men, and she's come to believe that for her a lasting love is out of reach. When she finds herself attracted to her down-to-earth, ordinary contractor—a man without any of the qualities that usually appeal to her—she questions everything she thought she wanted in life.
Sonja's lifelong pursuit of balance is shattered when her husband declares he's through with her New Age nonsense and walks out. There's no herbal tonic or cleansing ritual that can restore her serenity—or her sanity.
Miraculously, it's BJ, the reserved newcomer to Mill Valley, who steps into their circle and changes everything. The woman with dark secrets opens up to her neighbors, and together they get each other back on track, stronger as individuals and unfaltering as friends." (From Amazon)
Another great book by Robyn Carr. She is my go-to for a read that has emotion, humour, friendship, romance and family. I love Therese Plummer who narrates most of Carr's books. As soon as I hear her voice it takes me back to Virgin River and I feel a calm come over me. I recommend this to any reader that enjoys contemporary fiction.
(Review Not on Blog)
Listened to on Audio
"Gerri can't decide what's more devastating: learning her rock-solid marriage has big cracks, or the anger she feels as she tries to repair the damage. Always the anchor for friends and her three angst-ridden teenagers, it's time to look carefully at herself. The journey for Gerri and her family is more than revealing—it's transforming.
Andy doesn't have a great track record with men, and she's come to believe that for her a lasting love is out of reach. When she finds herself attracted to her down-to-earth, ordinary contractor—a man without any of the qualities that usually appeal to her—she questions everything she thought she wanted in life.
Sonja's lifelong pursuit of balance is shattered when her husband declares he's through with her New Age nonsense and walks out. There's no herbal tonic or cleansing ritual that can restore her serenity—or her sanity.
Miraculously, it's BJ, the reserved newcomer to Mill Valley, who steps into their circle and changes everything. The woman with dark secrets opens up to her neighbors, and together they get each other back on track, stronger as individuals and unfaltering as friends." (From Amazon)
Another great book by Robyn Carr. She is my go-to for a read that has emotion, humour, friendship, romance and family. I love Therese Plummer who narrates most of Carr's books. As soon as I hear her voice it takes me back to Virgin River and I feel a calm come over me. I recommend this to any reader that enjoys contemporary fiction.
March 3, 2014
An absorbing, fascinating read about four complex women with problems: Gerri, Andy, Sonja, and BJ. Gerri is the glue and the rock of the bunch and the heart of the story. Sonja begins as a woman who's too perfect (as the other women think, too) and who goes off the rails spectacularly. She also refinds the rails in spectacular, wonderful, unexpected fashion. I got a major kick out of her. BJ has a heckuva secret, and Andy is the sort of woman who goes after what she wants ... and tosses what she doesn't want. I liked them all. The men in the book, and the women's kids, add to the richness and layers of the story. Interestingly, I never truly warmed up to Gerri's husband (although I think many readers would), but I liked the story better for the fact that I didn't. Life isn't perfect. It's life, and sometimes it takes you for a ride.
January 20, 2018
I really liked this. I liked every story and how they intertwined, and I felt the author very deftly put each other in the spotlight at the appropriate time. Gerri's story was probably the most interesting to me, I liked seeing how she reacted to the the huge crack in her perfect marriage, how Phil dealt with it, what were his reasons, etc., . Andy and Bob were lovely. Sonja's transformation was also impressive, and I liked how BJ stayed apart from the others but got drawn in on her own terms.
December 8, 2019
2.5 I was only interested in Gerri and Phil'S story. And I found that I did not find forgiveness. I understand his remorse. I believe he wouldn't do it again. But I did not find forgiveness. The lunch with the mistress was completely dissatisfying to me. This was a woman that had slept, had sex, and was intimate with her husband for TWO YEARS.
I found it hollow, dissatisfying and by the end of the book - despite his remorse and my belief he'd
Never cheat again - unforgivable.
(But I did like the H. It's just my feelings were unresolved. )
I found it hollow, dissatisfying and by the end of the book - despite his remorse and my belief he'd
Never cheat again - unforgivable.
(But I did like the H. It's just my feelings were unresolved. )
May 22, 2014
Interesting book - a little different from what I've read by Robyn Carr. The writing is wonderful, character development perfect and held my attention throughout.
May 18, 2014
I hated that this book was over. I enjoyed getting to know the four women and I'm sorry this isn't a series like Virgin River where I get to keep going back.
May 3, 2022
listen 5/11/19 | 4 stars
listen 2/5/22
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Gerri Gilbert; Andy Jamison; Sonja Johanson; BJ Smith
listen 2/5/22
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Gerri Gilbert; Andy Jamison; Sonja Johanson; BJ Smith
January 16, 2025
3.5
I am a big fan of Robyn Carr. This one was good but not my favorite. I enjoyed the bond between the female characters.
I am a big fan of Robyn Carr. This one was good but not my favorite. I enjoyed the bond between the female characters.
March 23, 2014
Okay, I am such a Carr fan and will read anything she writes.
This book is so different than her series book, but I still enjoyed it.
This was the story of 4 friends and how their seemingly perfect lives implode and how they deal with it.
Gerri thought she had the perfect marriage, only to find that Phil had cheated on her years before. I was so disappointed in Phil, but loved the parts where Gerri was speaking to his mother and how she sided with Gerri. I also enjoyed how Gerri was kind of the ring leader of the group, yet she didn't control everything. Phil finally brought me around to liking him and I was happy Gerri made him grovel. I found Gerri to be a classy lady.
Sonja was such a yoga, health, naturalist, nut. I didn't think I was going to like her, but when George pulled the plug and she went over the edge I thought the entire story of her would revolve around her recovery in treatment. I was pleasantly surprised that she came back and was a totally different person. One who was not dependent on a man. I loved that she was letting George back in, but never thought she would take him back. I just wish that was answered in the end.
Andy seemed to make many mistakes in her short life. Two bad marriages, an ex-husband who couldn't accept his gay son and finally a contractor who was so far from what Andy normally ended up with seemed that they were the perfect fit. They seemed to bring out the best in one another and I absolutely loved his sister, Connie.
BJ....whoa where to start with that one. It was obvious from the start that she was probably a victim of some sort. Finding out she intentionally killed her husband to keep herself and her children safe was a bit of a shock, but I did applaud her. BJ ended up being the glue to help keep the group of friends solid. She was the first to notice that Sonja was having a break down and she was supportive of the other women. In addition, she was a great friend for Sonja and made sure she kept her on track by getting her to run out her OCD and frustrations.
My favorite thing was the block party and Connie putting BJ and her kids in the car in order to, hopefully, show them the guest house and have them reside there.
This book could delve further into things and become a series. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, although it is very different that her series books.
5 stars
This book is so different than her series book, but I still enjoyed it.
This was the story of 4 friends and how their seemingly perfect lives implode and how they deal with it.
Gerri thought she had the perfect marriage, only to find that Phil had cheated on her years before. I was so disappointed in Phil, but loved the parts where Gerri was speaking to his mother and how she sided with Gerri. I also enjoyed how Gerri was kind of the ring leader of the group, yet she didn't control everything. Phil finally brought me around to liking him and I was happy Gerri made him grovel. I found Gerri to be a classy lady.
Sonja was such a yoga, health, naturalist, nut. I didn't think I was going to like her, but when George pulled the plug and she went over the edge I thought the entire story of her would revolve around her recovery in treatment. I was pleasantly surprised that she came back and was a totally different person. One who was not dependent on a man. I loved that she was letting George back in, but never thought she would take him back. I just wish that was answered in the end.
Andy seemed to make many mistakes in her short life. Two bad marriages, an ex-husband who couldn't accept his gay son and finally a contractor who was so far from what Andy normally ended up with seemed that they were the perfect fit. They seemed to bring out the best in one another and I absolutely loved his sister, Connie.
BJ....whoa where to start with that one. It was obvious from the start that she was probably a victim of some sort. Finding out she intentionally killed her husband to keep herself and her children safe was a bit of a shock, but I did applaud her. BJ ended up being the glue to help keep the group of friends solid. She was the first to notice that Sonja was having a break down and she was supportive of the other women. In addition, she was a great friend for Sonja and made sure she kept her on track by getting her to run out her OCD and frustrations.
My favorite thing was the block party and Connie putting BJ and her kids in the car in order to, hopefully, show them the guest house and have them reside there.
This book could delve further into things and become a series. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, although it is very different that her series books.
5 stars
June 13, 2015
Reviewed by Angie
Book provided by NetGalley for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
After being encouraged to read a Robyn Carr novel, I feel mostly let down that the hype from friends wasn’t exactly all that I probably should have felt.
My biggest pet peeve is using coarse language to express emotions to excess; there are many other wonderful words that can be used to achieve the same result without causing the reader to either wince or roll their eyes after a while.
Gerri’s treatment of Phil and Phil’s subsequent cheating and attempts to regain his wife’s trust and solidify his place in the family did not make for fun reading. She was too abrasive, and his actions were almost romanticized by the author. I will admit that there were more than a few times where I wanted to hand her a Snickers and tell her to shut up and sit down already.
I wanted to reach in and hug Sonya, especially when she was so brushed off for most of the beginning of the book. What could have been led into healthy book club or friendly discussions of how well Sonya’s mental illness was handled by her husband and neighbors, was instead treated with stigma and unoriginality. What was once a woman who was sweet, although annoying when it came to health tips, was suddenly a caustic woman who seemingly became Gerri’s twin. I didn’t seem to care too much about her in the back half of the book.
Andie’s story was the only one that I really kept reading for, but the author chose to further alienate this reader by referring to Bob as fat, overweight, or too old at nearly every chance she got.
Ms. Carr has the capability to weave storylines, especially hot topics such as the ones included in this book, and make them work. However, even after a second read-through I found myself longing to just be done with it and move on. I may still give one of her Virgin River books a try as those are the most highly recommended of all her books.
Book provided by NetGalley for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
After being encouraged to read a Robyn Carr novel, I feel mostly let down that the hype from friends wasn’t exactly all that I probably should have felt.
My biggest pet peeve is using coarse language to express emotions to excess; there are many other wonderful words that can be used to achieve the same result without causing the reader to either wince or roll their eyes after a while.
Gerri’s treatment of Phil and Phil’s subsequent cheating and attempts to regain his wife’s trust and solidify his place in the family did not make for fun reading. She was too abrasive, and his actions were almost romanticized by the author. I will admit that there were more than a few times where I wanted to hand her a Snickers and tell her to shut up and sit down already.
I wanted to reach in and hug Sonya, especially when she was so brushed off for most of the beginning of the book. What could have been led into healthy book club or friendly discussions of how well Sonya’s mental illness was handled by her husband and neighbors, was instead treated with stigma and unoriginality. What was once a woman who was sweet, although annoying when it came to health tips, was suddenly a caustic woman who seemingly became Gerri’s twin. I didn’t seem to care too much about her in the back half of the book.
Andie’s story was the only one that I really kept reading for, but the author chose to further alienate this reader by referring to Bob as fat, overweight, or too old at nearly every chance she got.
Ms. Carr has the capability to weave storylines, especially hot topics such as the ones included in this book, and make them work. However, even after a second read-through I found myself longing to just be done with it and move on. I may still give one of her Virgin River books a try as those are the most highly recommended of all her books.
February 11, 2014
Four Friends
by
Robyn Carr
What it's all about...
Why...it's about four friends and the lives they lead. These four just happen to live in the same neighborhood.
My thoughts after reading this book...
When we first meet these women they are up at 6 ish and power walking. However...soon everyone's lives begin to change and even crumble. Andy finds out her husband is cheating, Gerri finds out her husband has cheated, Sonja falls apart because her husband doesn't want to eat nut meatloaf any more and BJ enters the picture with a deep dark secret of her own.
Husbands are tossed out, someone gets committed, teen children get in trouble, secrets are revealed and some people fall in love...again...and this is all within the first few pages! Just teasing but there is a lot going on in this book! And you can sort of predict how this book will roll...dysfunction, angst, revealed secrets and a happy ending...sort of!
What I loved best and what I didn't love best...
The characters are interesting and I loved their issues! It made the book fun and speedy to read! One of my fave characters is Bob...the Builder/Carpenter and Beau...his dog. Gerri...has been married the longest and is the most visible character in this book. Her complaints about sex and menopause were kind of annoying...she needed her gynecologist to tell her women had sex after fifty? Sheesh!
My ending thoughts for potential readers...
A fun light hearted book with both real and quirky over the top characters. Lots of issues are addressed...drugs, marital abuse, teen sex, homosexuality, fidelity and vegetarianism. Yes...I said vegetarianism!
Again...probably a great beach read...I think that this is the first book I have ever read by this author. I did enjoy it!
by
Robyn Carr
What it's all about...
Why...it's about four friends and the lives they lead. These four just happen to live in the same neighborhood.
My thoughts after reading this book...
When we first meet these women they are up at 6 ish and power walking. However...soon everyone's lives begin to change and even crumble. Andy finds out her husband is cheating, Gerri finds out her husband has cheated, Sonja falls apart because her husband doesn't want to eat nut meatloaf any more and BJ enters the picture with a deep dark secret of her own.
Husbands are tossed out, someone gets committed, teen children get in trouble, secrets are revealed and some people fall in love...again...and this is all within the first few pages! Just teasing but there is a lot going on in this book! And you can sort of predict how this book will roll...dysfunction, angst, revealed secrets and a happy ending...sort of!
What I loved best and what I didn't love best...
The characters are interesting and I loved their issues! It made the book fun and speedy to read! One of my fave characters is Bob...the Builder/Carpenter and Beau...his dog. Gerri...has been married the longest and is the most visible character in this book. Her complaints about sex and menopause were kind of annoying...she needed her gynecologist to tell her women had sex after fifty? Sheesh!
My ending thoughts for potential readers...
A fun light hearted book with both real and quirky over the top characters. Lots of issues are addressed...drugs, marital abuse, teen sex, homosexuality, fidelity and vegetarianism. Yes...I said vegetarianism!
Again...probably a great beach read...I think that this is the first book I have ever read by this author. I did enjoy it!
July 19, 2016
I've been a fan of Robyn Carr ever since Virgin River ... And I'll always be a fan. But Four Friends is nothing like the nature-filled, adventurous, romantic tales of Virgin River or Thunder Point.
Four friends is about four neighborhood women, each in a different phase in life, each with struggles, and each with strengths. They bring each other wine, pull each other out of bed to join the daily morning walks, and save each other's lives. Literally.
The more I think about this book, the more ambivalent I am about it. I liked it, but there were some parts that just annoyed me!
For example:
I'm a sucker for a good tale about marriage, but I hated that there was cheating going on. I appreciate Carr being a champion for victims of domestic abuse, but some of that story seemed contrived. Crystal-toting Sonja lent a cool quirkiness that I loved... and then the rug was ripped out from under me when Sonja wasn't really who she appeared to be. And Andy's love life was great for her, but her new man was so timid and tepid that I couldn't feel the attraction.
I think I felt like I was looking in on a pretend world when I read Four Friends. I was totally entertained, and the friendships were terrific. But I wasn't drawn in to the story... I wasn't in the pages with the characters... They just weren't real to me.
All in all, from the outside looking in, Four Friends is a fresh take on women's friendships with each other and the struggles they overcome in their relationships with men.
Four friends is about four neighborhood women, each in a different phase in life, each with struggles, and each with strengths. They bring each other wine, pull each other out of bed to join the daily morning walks, and save each other's lives. Literally.
The more I think about this book, the more ambivalent I am about it. I liked it, but there were some parts that just annoyed me!
For example:
I'm a sucker for a good tale about marriage, but I hated that there was cheating going on. I appreciate Carr being a champion for victims of domestic abuse, but some of that story seemed contrived. Crystal-toting Sonja lent a cool quirkiness that I loved... and then the rug was ripped out from under me when Sonja wasn't really who she appeared to be. And Andy's love life was great for her, but her new man was so timid and tepid that I couldn't feel the attraction.
I think I felt like I was looking in on a pretend world when I read Four Friends. I was totally entertained, and the friendships were terrific. But I wasn't drawn in to the story... I wasn't in the pages with the characters... They just weren't real to me.
All in all, from the outside looking in, Four Friends is a fresh take on women's friendships with each other and the struggles they overcome in their relationships with men.
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