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The Divorced Not Dead Workshop
Recently divorced and utterly dismayed with the dating scene, Dorsey Bing muses about a way to "desuckify" men, which leads her to consider creating a dating workshop during a cruise to Cabo. Too bad Dorsey’s an idea person with zero follow-through. That all changes when her BBF, the uber-organized Pilar, decides to set up the workshop and puts herself in charge. But do things ever really work out as planned? No. No, they don’t. A startling mishap, rebellious workshop attendees and the arrival of wily Finn Woodall sends everything topsy-turvy. More trouble arises with the unexpected re-appearance of Dorsey's ex. Will they rekindle their relationship? Or is she smitten with Finn who just might turn out to be a back-stabbing weasel? Find out in this touching and funny romantic comedy about dating again after divorce. The Divorced Not Dead Workshop was awarded a Crowned Heart for Excellence by InD'tale magazine!
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2014
27 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
CeCe Osgood
8 books22 followersI have a new series. It's a cozy witch mystery. Book one is Doomed by Dessert. Released 10. 06.2018. Book two is Murder in Moon Water (to be released 10.26.2018).
My cozy mystery series starts with MARGARITAS & MURDER: A Sunny Truly Mystery - Book One. "Witty cozy...a whirlwind of plot twists...: The BookLife Prize in Fiction.
"Margaritas & Murder is as charming and playful as a field of pink bluebonnet flowers. Get ready to lasso a good read! Meet Sunny Truly, an eager apprentice Private Investigator, who uses her Texas sass to solve mysteries. Margaritas & Mysteries is the first book in the series, so we are introduced to the main cast of colorful characters." -- Happy Reader's review
Next in the series: Merlot & Murder: Sunny Truly Mystery - Book Two
MERLOT & MURDER, A Sunny Truly Mystery - Book Two is on Amazon now.
For many years I was in the movie world as a freelance script analyst, evaluating screenplays, novels, and non-fiction books (main client: HBO). I also reviewed scripts for the Nicholl Fellowship, the USA’s most prestigious screenplay competition sponsored by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. During this time, I wrote screenplays and had two optioned.
My debut novel is the chick lit romantic comedy, THE DIVORCED NOT DEAD WORKSHOP.
the series.
My cozy mystery series starts with MARGARITAS & MURDER: A Sunny Truly Mystery - Book One. "Witty cozy...a whirlwind of plot twists...: The BookLife Prize in Fiction.
"Margaritas & Murder is as charming and playful as a field of pink bluebonnet flowers. Get ready to lasso a good read! Meet Sunny Truly, an eager apprentice Private Investigator, who uses her Texas sass to solve mysteries. Margaritas & Mysteries is the first book in the series, so we are introduced to the main cast of colorful characters." -- Happy Reader's review
Next in the series: Merlot & Murder: Sunny Truly Mystery - Book Two
MERLOT & MURDER, A Sunny Truly Mystery - Book Two is on Amazon now.
For many years I was in the movie world as a freelance script analyst, evaluating screenplays, novels, and non-fiction books (main client: HBO). I also reviewed scripts for the Nicholl Fellowship, the USA’s most prestigious screenplay competition sponsored by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. During this time, I wrote screenplays and had two optioned.
My debut novel is the chick lit romantic comedy, THE DIVORCED NOT DEAD WORKSHOP.
the series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 7, 2014
After the company she is working for downsizes and lays Dorsey Bing off, she decides to go with her brainchild idea of focusing on, and creating a dating workshop. If she puts all her energy into creating a dating workshop for divorcees, she can take her mind off her crappy love and work life. With her two best friends by her side, they discuss Dorsey's workshop idea to "desuckify the sucky guys."
The plan is to coach men into getting themselves into a better place in their lives, so they can feel good about who they are. To teach them to learn a better way to relate to others, and to find the courage to get back into the dating world. They eventually decide to include women in the workshop, due to an overwhelmingly receptive response. Dorsey targets people who are just beginning to realize they're divorced, not dead. Hence where the workshop name is derived from.
Meanwhile, Dorsey's step-father is getting married on a cruise ship, and wouldn't you know that Dorsey's best friend scheduled the workshop at the same time? Fortunately, the group agrees to meet on the cruise ship, and Dorsey is able to teach the class on her way to Cabo for her step-father's wedding.
It isn't easy, and Dorsey is stressed to the max. She fears running into her ex on the cruise ship, (her step-father is marrying her ex's Aunt), and she fears being sued by her class if everything doesn't go right. When she topples into a British man and causes him to lose his phone to the ocean, she really feels terrible and hopes she can avoid him for the rest of the cruise.
But she isn't that lucky. The man she bumped into happens to be related not only to her step-father's new bride, but also to her ex!
As Dorsey gets to know Finn better, he asks to audit and sit in on her class for reasons she doesn't quite understand. Is he interested in the class as a divorcee himself? Or is it something else?
Dorsey goes back and forth between being annoyed and charmed with Finn. Just when she think she can't take anymore, her ex arrives...
I really enjoyed The Divorced Not Dead Workshop, by CeCe Osgood. It was a fun, light read that made me laugh! I would classify this book as a women's fiction with a romantic twist. It also features a lot of self help advice that may appeal to someone who was interested in getting back out into the dating world after a divorce, or bad break up. It's an all around great novel, and I would definitely recommend it to a friend!
I love the main character Dorsey, even though she is a "daft nutter" :). --And she definitely is! There is a scene in the book where she believes there is a drunk, burglar rapist at her door that had me in hysterics! But that is just typical Dorsey, jumping way off base and to the craziest possible conclusion. :)
I give The Divorced Not Dead Workshop 4 Stars! It is a great read! Guaranteed to be enjoyed by those who love romantic comedies!
***I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.***
The plan is to coach men into getting themselves into a better place in their lives, so they can feel good about who they are. To teach them to learn a better way to relate to others, and to find the courage to get back into the dating world. They eventually decide to include women in the workshop, due to an overwhelmingly receptive response. Dorsey targets people who are just beginning to realize they're divorced, not dead. Hence where the workshop name is derived from.
Meanwhile, Dorsey's step-father is getting married on a cruise ship, and wouldn't you know that Dorsey's best friend scheduled the workshop at the same time? Fortunately, the group agrees to meet on the cruise ship, and Dorsey is able to teach the class on her way to Cabo for her step-father's wedding.
It isn't easy, and Dorsey is stressed to the max. She fears running into her ex on the cruise ship, (her step-father is marrying her ex's Aunt), and she fears being sued by her class if everything doesn't go right. When she topples into a British man and causes him to lose his phone to the ocean, she really feels terrible and hopes she can avoid him for the rest of the cruise.
But she isn't that lucky. The man she bumped into happens to be related not only to her step-father's new bride, but also to her ex!
As Dorsey gets to know Finn better, he asks to audit and sit in on her class for reasons she doesn't quite understand. Is he interested in the class as a divorcee himself? Or is it something else?
Dorsey goes back and forth between being annoyed and charmed with Finn. Just when she think she can't take anymore, her ex arrives...
I really enjoyed The Divorced Not Dead Workshop, by CeCe Osgood. It was a fun, light read that made me laugh! I would classify this book as a women's fiction with a romantic twist. It also features a lot of self help advice that may appeal to someone who was interested in getting back out into the dating world after a divorce, or bad break up. It's an all around great novel, and I would definitely recommend it to a friend!
I love the main character Dorsey, even though she is a "daft nutter" :). --And she definitely is! There is a scene in the book where she believes there is a drunk, burglar rapist at her door that had me in hysterics! But that is just typical Dorsey, jumping way off base and to the craziest possible conclusion. :)
I give The Divorced Not Dead Workshop 4 Stars! It is a great read! Guaranteed to be enjoyed by those who love romantic comedies!
***I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.***
March 20, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Dorsey has been divorced five years and recently dumped by her boyfriend. After an untimely layoff, she comes up with an idea for a dating workshop for divorced people. With the encouragement and assistance of her best friends, Pilar and Mimi, a trial run of the workshop is set up for the same weekend as the cruise/wedding of Dorsey's stepfather. Complications arise with a startling mishap, rebellious attendees and a fraud accusation, the arrival of Audrey’s good-looking but wily nephew Finn, and the reappearance of Dorsey's ex-boyfriend. Struggling through the turmoil, Dorsey must face her biggest challenge if she’s to win the love, and life, she’s always desired.
The Divorced Not Dead Workshop grabbed me with its catchy title, and it is as fun and quirky a read as the title implies. This fast paced romantic comedy is a page turner. The characters are fun and flawed. The mishaps and misunderstandings provide classic comedy points found in zany comedies. The melange of misfits who attend the workshop aboard the cruise ship, Lyric, work together to better themselves for the dating scene. Along the way they make new friends and find pleasure in starting conversations rather than just throwing out pick up lines. Their self-discoveries are all unique and surface at different points in the story. Although the epiphanies and relationships are not an unexpected result of the workshop, they don’t feel cliche. Meanwhile, Dorsey’s complex family is also on board for a wedding where nothing seems to go right. The addition of the family drama was delightful. The dysfunction family provide negative drama as well as hope for finding a loving relationship. Audrey’s and Ralph’s late-in-life romance is adoring and respectful which is just the sort of relationship the attendees, and the coordinators, of the workshop long for. I highly recommend this fun-filled page turner.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
Dorsey has been divorced five years and recently dumped by her boyfriend. After an untimely layoff, she comes up with an idea for a dating workshop for divorced people. With the encouragement and assistance of her best friends, Pilar and Mimi, a trial run of the workshop is set up for the same weekend as the cruise/wedding of Dorsey's stepfather. Complications arise with a startling mishap, rebellious attendees and a fraud accusation, the arrival of Audrey’s good-looking but wily nephew Finn, and the reappearance of Dorsey's ex-boyfriend. Struggling through the turmoil, Dorsey must face her biggest challenge if she’s to win the love, and life, she’s always desired.
The Divorced Not Dead Workshop grabbed me with its catchy title, and it is as fun and quirky a read as the title implies. This fast paced romantic comedy is a page turner. The characters are fun and flawed. The mishaps and misunderstandings provide classic comedy points found in zany comedies. The melange of misfits who attend the workshop aboard the cruise ship, Lyric, work together to better themselves for the dating scene. Along the way they make new friends and find pleasure in starting conversations rather than just throwing out pick up lines. Their self-discoveries are all unique and surface at different points in the story. Although the epiphanies and relationships are not an unexpected result of the workshop, they don’t feel cliche. Meanwhile, Dorsey’s complex family is also on board for a wedding where nothing seems to go right. The addition of the family drama was delightful. The dysfunction family provide negative drama as well as hope for finding a loving relationship. Audrey’s and Ralph’s late-in-life romance is adoring and respectful which is just the sort of relationship the attendees, and the coordinators, of the workshop long for. I highly recommend this fun-filled page turner.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
July 29, 2014
The premise for this book is wonderful. Most of us have experienced the painful end to a long term relationship, so it is easy to relate to Dorsey Bing, the heroine of our story.
Dorsey, previously divorced from her husband Evan, is dealing with the disintegration of her relationship with her long time boyfriend, Theo. Her self confidence in tatters, Dorsey undermines herself and her potential. Her close friends Pilar and Mimi see all the wonderfulness Dorsey has to offer, but when will Dorsey?
One night while out on the town with her friends, Dorsey suggests the "Divorced Not Dead Workshop" while the ladies drunkenly banter. Once sober, Pilar, a real go getter, attempts to get Dorsey to organize the workshop. Her idea, a place where people can safely learn what they are lacking, and what is necessary to survive the dating pool, intact. After many twists and turns, the workshop comes together, with Dorsey leading a band of misfits through an emotional obstacle course.
This is Ms. Osgood's debut novel. Cece Osgood has an incredible talent for describing emotional and physical situations, leaving us walking in Dorsey's shoes, feeling her angst, pain, and anger. Ms. Osgood's talent takes us on an emotional journey into Dorsey's past where we come to understand why she chooses men who are wrong for her. It's painful and we feel it.
The books closes with Dorsey evolving into a person who sees the possibilities, her glass now half full. It's impossible not to cheer for Dorsey and her band of misfits.
I look forward to reading more from Cece Osgood in the future.
Dorsey, previously divorced from her husband Evan, is dealing with the disintegration of her relationship with her long time boyfriend, Theo. Her self confidence in tatters, Dorsey undermines herself and her potential. Her close friends Pilar and Mimi see all the wonderfulness Dorsey has to offer, but when will Dorsey?
One night while out on the town with her friends, Dorsey suggests the "Divorced Not Dead Workshop" while the ladies drunkenly banter. Once sober, Pilar, a real go getter, attempts to get Dorsey to organize the workshop. Her idea, a place where people can safely learn what they are lacking, and what is necessary to survive the dating pool, intact. After many twists and turns, the workshop comes together, with Dorsey leading a band of misfits through an emotional obstacle course.
This is Ms. Osgood's debut novel. Cece Osgood has an incredible talent for describing emotional and physical situations, leaving us walking in Dorsey's shoes, feeling her angst, pain, and anger. Ms. Osgood's talent takes us on an emotional journey into Dorsey's past where we come to understand why she chooses men who are wrong for her. It's painful and we feel it.
The books closes with Dorsey evolving into a person who sees the possibilities, her glass now half full. It's impossible not to cheer for Dorsey and her band of misfits.
I look forward to reading more from Cece Osgood in the future.
January 5, 2014
This book is exactly what the title says. It is about the people in a workshop called Divorced Not Dead Workshop. I wondered how a book about divorce could be humorous - but it sure was. It was not really about divorce but about relationships. All the people in the workshop had been divorced and were pretty messed up however Dorsey Bing, the workshop moderator, helped them see what went wrong with their marriages and how to confidently get back to dating.
The characters were wonderfully written. I liked the way the author had the characters interacting with each other. Even though they all had problems, they all helped each other out. The characters were so varied in personalities that you never knew what might happen next. There were lots of surprises in this novel. It was great.
I liked the title and the unique story line. I absolutely recommend Divorced Not Dead Workshop to anyone of any age.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The characters were wonderfully written. I liked the way the author had the characters interacting with each other. Even though they all had problems, they all helped each other out. The characters were so varied in personalities that you never knew what might happen next. There were lots of surprises in this novel. It was great.
I liked the title and the unique story line. I absolutely recommend Divorced Not Dead Workshop to anyone of any age.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2014
This was brilliant - better than First Wives Club. It's not about an eighteen year old, fresh out of college, who's never been hurt - Dorsey and her friends are real women who've lived, had bumpy pasts and (in Dorsey's case) are looking for love again. And not only are they going to do something about it - they're going to help others, too, with the relationship workshop for divorced people.
On a cruise ship, of all places.
This book is funny, but it also provides relationship advice for anyone who's struggling with their significant other. But it's better than a self-help book, because the fun story carries you along as you learn how Dorsey attempts to sort out her life. Well worth a read.
On a cruise ship, of all places.
This book is funny, but it also provides relationship advice for anyone who's struggling with their significant other. But it's better than a self-help book, because the fun story carries you along as you learn how Dorsey attempts to sort out her life. Well worth a read.
April 22, 2014
4.5/5.0
An endearing story full of eccentrically comfortable characters, Ms. Osgood doesn’t mock divorce, nor make excuses or point fingers.
Read full review in the 2014 April issue of InD’tale Magazine.
An endearing story full of eccentrically comfortable characters, Ms. Osgood doesn’t mock divorce, nor make excuses or point fingers.
Read full review in the 2014 April issue of InD’tale Magazine.
October 7, 2018
Power of friendship!!!
I enjoyed this book because it truly shows how negativistic people can be. It is very true that we make a story in our heads and believe this is reality. When they are just thoughts. Good read for all these people that are stopped in their life's. Enjoyed all your characters
I enjoyed this book because it truly shows how negativistic people can be. It is very true that we make a story in our heads and believe this is reality. When they are just thoughts. Good read for all these people that are stopped in their life's. Enjoyed all your characters
August 12, 2018
The Divorced Not Dead Workshop by CeCe Osgood
This is a very funny rom/com. I love all of these characters. This book would be a terrific kick off for a series. These events and these characters would play well everywhere.
*I dropped a star for editing*
This is a very funny rom/com. I love all of these characters. This book would be a terrific kick off for a series. These events and these characters would play well everywhere.
*I dropped a star for editing*
June 5, 2018
This story was okay but I found parts of it to be so unbelievable. I was looking for an easy read over a holiday weekend and this worked but didn't draw me in like some books.
October 20, 2018
Fun Topic
A fun story line, which flows smoothly. It's refreshing to be able to get involved in the plot without being distracted by poor grammar and other English errors.
A fun story line, which flows smoothly. It's refreshing to be able to get involved in the plot without being distracted by poor grammar and other English errors.
January 21, 2014
Author CeCe Osgood contacted me, requesting an honest review of her book The Divorced Not Dead Workshop. How could I say no?
On the fifth anniversary of her divorce, Dorsey Bing suggests to her friends that there should be a way to 'desuckify' men. She and her friends Pilar Vega (friends since their first day of Psych 101 in college) and Mimi (no surname listed) are shopping when she spies her most recent boyfriend, Theo, with a young, busty blonde. And they're entering the shop they're in! Dorsey's step-father, Ralph, is dating Theo's great-aunt by marriage, Audrey. Theo had dumped Dorsey, but she told Ralph and Audrey that the parting was amicable.
After her friends pull her out from under the table she hid under and haul her to the bar for a few cocktails, Dorsey wakes up the next morning on Mimi's couch. After she makes her way to work - late - she finds out that corporate HR is there, and they're there to downsize! As the new kid on that block, Dorsey shortly finds herself heading to her car with a box of her belongings in hand.
Dorsey rents a guesthouse on the estate of a mini-mansion currently undergoing renovation. The place is hers until the renovation is complete and the estate goes on the market. Now she's out of work, depressed about being single, and the renovation is nearly complete. Pilar and Mimi arrive with food and drink in hand, and tell her they love Dorsey's latest brainstorm - a workshop for divorced men, designed to 'desuckify' them. Having had great ideas in the past but zero follow-through, Pilar, an event planner by profession, takes up the gauntlet and runs with it. She knows Dorsey's idea is a good one, and intends to make it work. Since Dorsey doesn't have anything better to do, she gets to help. It was her idea, after all.
She meets Ralph for their standing lunch date, where he announces he is retiring and that he and Audrey intend to marry. The wedding will take place in Mexico, and tickets have been purchased for the cruise ship, the Lyric, where Ralph is an entertainer, for her, Mimi and Pilar. This will be Ralph's final cruise with the liner. When Pilar, 'Miss Epitome of Organization', messes up and books the workshop on the same weekend as the cruise, they decide to move the workshop to be held on the cruise. But, there is a catch. Pilar has been trying to court a leading board member for a number of very high profile non-profits. In attempt to garner her favor, Pilar accepts the Zelda Hogan's request for her daughters to attend the workshop. So much for a workshop for men.
Nothing can go wrong... right?
I have to admit, it took me a few chapters to really 'get into' the book. In particular, I needed to re-read the first 2-3 pages before I figured out what was going on and who was who. Once I figured out whom Dorsey, Mimi and Pilar were, I was good to go. When I got to around 40-45%, I could not put it down! In fact, I was up past 4AM reading.
I found the humor light and refreshing with an occasional guffaw, and some of the more tense situations had me wanting to bite my fingernails. It's not slapstick funny; the humor did not feel forced by the author. I found it cute, something many of my divorcee friends could relate to, and fascinating on a psychological level (some of the workshop items). The only real annoyance I had was that it took so long to find out why Dorsey had such a problem with a woman named Melissa Street. It's not until late in the book when we find out whom she is/was.
On the fifth anniversary of her divorce, Dorsey Bing suggests to her friends that there should be a way to 'desuckify' men. She and her friends Pilar Vega (friends since their first day of Psych 101 in college) and Mimi (no surname listed) are shopping when she spies her most recent boyfriend, Theo, with a young, busty blonde. And they're entering the shop they're in! Dorsey's step-father, Ralph, is dating Theo's great-aunt by marriage, Audrey. Theo had dumped Dorsey, but she told Ralph and Audrey that the parting was amicable.
After her friends pull her out from under the table she hid under and haul her to the bar for a few cocktails, Dorsey wakes up the next morning on Mimi's couch. After she makes her way to work - late - she finds out that corporate HR is there, and they're there to downsize! As the new kid on that block, Dorsey shortly finds herself heading to her car with a box of her belongings in hand.
Dorsey rents a guesthouse on the estate of a mini-mansion currently undergoing renovation. The place is hers until the renovation is complete and the estate goes on the market. Now she's out of work, depressed about being single, and the renovation is nearly complete. Pilar and Mimi arrive with food and drink in hand, and tell her they love Dorsey's latest brainstorm - a workshop for divorced men, designed to 'desuckify' them. Having had great ideas in the past but zero follow-through, Pilar, an event planner by profession, takes up the gauntlet and runs with it. She knows Dorsey's idea is a good one, and intends to make it work. Since Dorsey doesn't have anything better to do, she gets to help. It was her idea, after all.
She meets Ralph for their standing lunch date, where he announces he is retiring and that he and Audrey intend to marry. The wedding will take place in Mexico, and tickets have been purchased for the cruise ship, the Lyric, where Ralph is an entertainer, for her, Mimi and Pilar. This will be Ralph's final cruise with the liner. When Pilar, 'Miss Epitome of Organization', messes up and books the workshop on the same weekend as the cruise, they decide to move the workshop to be held on the cruise. But, there is a catch. Pilar has been trying to court a leading board member for a number of very high profile non-profits. In attempt to garner her favor, Pilar accepts the Zelda Hogan's request for her daughters to attend the workshop. So much for a workshop for men.
Nothing can go wrong... right?
I have to admit, it took me a few chapters to really 'get into' the book. In particular, I needed to re-read the first 2-3 pages before I figured out what was going on and who was who. Once I figured out whom Dorsey, Mimi and Pilar were, I was good to go. When I got to around 40-45%, I could not put it down! In fact, I was up past 4AM reading.
I found the humor light and refreshing with an occasional guffaw, and some of the more tense situations had me wanting to bite my fingernails. It's not slapstick funny; the humor did not feel forced by the author. I found it cute, something many of my divorcee friends could relate to, and fascinating on a psychological level (some of the workshop items). The only real annoyance I had was that it took so long to find out why Dorsey had such a problem with a woman named Melissa Street. It's not until late in the book when we find out whom she is/was.
March 21, 2015
At the beginning of this book Dorsey is let go from her work, so she is unemployed and divorced! She casually mentions the idea of a workshop for divorced men, and her friend Pilar decides they should go for it. The book continues with how this workshop pans out, along with mishaps, romance, embarrassment and much more.
I liked this book right from the beginning when I was captured with giggles from the main character Dorsey having a go at a random lady for not wiping her pee from the toilet seat! Something that everybody would want to do, but perhaps wouldn’t storm out of the cubicle and yell ‘You peed on the seat, I’m not cleaning up your pee’. This made me love Dorsey, even though I was cringing a bit. After this escapade, we find Dorsey hiding under the table from an ex! She is a great character, full of womanly self doubt, love and comedy. The only thing I didn’t love about the main character was her name! Dorsey Bing, a very strange name, but I guess it sticks in your memory, and I did continue to think about Dorsey Bing after I finished the book.
I think this book is about self discovery, I liked the fact that it wasn’t about a young single twenty something, Dorsey and some of the other characters have been married and are now divorced. It was chick lit, but with something a bit different about the characters. I was slightly hesitant that I wouldn’t identify with the characters, as I am not older, divorced, the type to go to a workshop like this. But, I really could identify with Dorsey. In fact, I feel she has some character traits just like me. Dorsey is good at giving others great advice but not so good at taking it herself. She is self doubting, she blames herself for things that a friend would tell her, not to be so silly about. I loved Dorsey and hope that we get to see more of her.
The other characters were very well written too. Dorsey’s 2 best friends Pilar and Mimi. I would describe them as strange friendships, especially Mimi. They are not as upfront and all sharing as written in other chick lit books, but again this is perhaps something that is a lot more real??
The male characters were good. The book opens by saying that ‘men suck‘. The girls wish they could ‘desuckify’ them. I liked how Dorsey uses her own words. “Desuckify“. Not all the men sucked, and you will find out if you read it which ones do and which ones surely don’t.
There was a bit of comparison between Brits and Americans which I found amusing:
“they were Brits, there’d be no fisticuffs”…….”maybe i was wrong, maybe there would be blood”
“ – gave a sweet kiss on the lips. Well so much for British reserve”.
It was amusing to see how an American author would write her thoughts on British people!
Overall, I really liked this book, the characters were great, very well written, the storyline was capturing. I wanted to know what would happen to each of them. I would recommend this book to everyone who likes chick lit, and those who want chick lit that is a bit different. I would recommend it to all ages too, don’t be fooled into thinking, I won’t relate because I don’t know anything about divorce. You don’t need to, it is brilliant and funny and makes you want to keep reading.
For further thoughts, reviews, book chat, come and visit me at http://www.chocolatepages.wordpress.com
I liked this book right from the beginning when I was captured with giggles from the main character Dorsey having a go at a random lady for not wiping her pee from the toilet seat! Something that everybody would want to do, but perhaps wouldn’t storm out of the cubicle and yell ‘You peed on the seat, I’m not cleaning up your pee’. This made me love Dorsey, even though I was cringing a bit. After this escapade, we find Dorsey hiding under the table from an ex! She is a great character, full of womanly self doubt, love and comedy. The only thing I didn’t love about the main character was her name! Dorsey Bing, a very strange name, but I guess it sticks in your memory, and I did continue to think about Dorsey Bing after I finished the book.
I think this book is about self discovery, I liked the fact that it wasn’t about a young single twenty something, Dorsey and some of the other characters have been married and are now divorced. It was chick lit, but with something a bit different about the characters. I was slightly hesitant that I wouldn’t identify with the characters, as I am not older, divorced, the type to go to a workshop like this. But, I really could identify with Dorsey. In fact, I feel she has some character traits just like me. Dorsey is good at giving others great advice but not so good at taking it herself. She is self doubting, she blames herself for things that a friend would tell her, not to be so silly about. I loved Dorsey and hope that we get to see more of her.
The other characters were very well written too. Dorsey’s 2 best friends Pilar and Mimi. I would describe them as strange friendships, especially Mimi. They are not as upfront and all sharing as written in other chick lit books, but again this is perhaps something that is a lot more real??
The male characters were good. The book opens by saying that ‘men suck‘. The girls wish they could ‘desuckify’ them. I liked how Dorsey uses her own words. “Desuckify“. Not all the men sucked, and you will find out if you read it which ones do and which ones surely don’t.
There was a bit of comparison between Brits and Americans which I found amusing:
“they were Brits, there’d be no fisticuffs”…….”maybe i was wrong, maybe there would be blood”
“ – gave a sweet kiss on the lips. Well so much for British reserve”.
It was amusing to see how an American author would write her thoughts on British people!
Overall, I really liked this book, the characters were great, very well written, the storyline was capturing. I wanted to know what would happen to each of them. I would recommend this book to everyone who likes chick lit, and those who want chick lit that is a bit different. I would recommend it to all ages too, don’t be fooled into thinking, I won’t relate because I don’t know anything about divorce. You don’t need to, it is brilliant and funny and makes you want to keep reading.
For further thoughts, reviews, book chat, come and visit me at http://www.chocolatepages.wordpress.com
May 4, 2014
It is hilarious and funny... Something new to me...
Although I am a woman, I am more in paranormal romance & fantasy stuff rather than the usual romantic comedy space. If you are like my reviews, you would have noticed that I always "dissect" the book to find good quote or sentences that are worth discussing.
If I find some golden nuggets, then I can say that the author put in reasonable effort to entertain their readers.
As I started flipping page of this book, I noticed there are some sentences that are worth my time to discuss. There is one sentence: "There's no way in the world you, me or anybody else could ever desuckify the jerks." I couldn't stop laughing after I read this sentence. I could sense that Dorsey Bind is really disgusted on something. The author has really made my day great, the only regret I have is, I should have pick up this book earlier. Good work.
This novel has a modern setting surrounding divorced women in the present day. The mindset that may be preventing them from seeing the good of men, especially when Dorsey and Pilar wanted to start a workshop for divorced men. This setting is well-balanced. I like it.
There are many characters that are worth mentioning. Although, Dorsey is the main character. But I prefer to like her best friend Pilar. She is those kind of woman who dared to take action after seeing the slightest business opportunity. She is more like a risk-taker, a go-getter woman that has a no nonsense personality. She is also funny at times. However, there are times when Pilar are always trying to take control over matters, and this pissed Dorsey sometimes. But they forgive and forget and move on. This character resembles me, strong, determined, caring and influencing. A good development of characters for this book.
What I like most of this story is the idea of a workshop for divorced men and how to help them, not knowing that the girls are into the ride of their lives. There are scenes that Dorsey is left helpless on a cruise ship without Pilar, after bracing herself together, she managed to pull it through. Without giving away spoilers, I can say that Dorsey does have the ability to manage this workshop by forming teamwork with others in the workshop. The author has inject a lot of human endurance, persistence, determination, and resolve onto the story. A good move and technique.
This book is open to all ages, man and woman, new adult. If you are into chick lit, women's fiction, romance and etc. I bet you will like this piece of art. The novel is very entertaining throughout the end, and it has Hollywood quality to turn into a movie.
If there's one thing I'd change about this book, I hope to see more clarity and direction of this novel. Even though, this book is more about the divorce workshop, then a book about divorce. This author may want to consider adding more clarity on this.
This book looked great on my Kindle Fire HD tablet It has good formatting and layout without much grammar and spelling issues. Even, if there are, I will affect the whole plot. If you found this review useful, let the community know.
Although I am a woman, I am more in paranormal romance & fantasy stuff rather than the usual romantic comedy space. If you are like my reviews, you would have noticed that I always "dissect" the book to find good quote or sentences that are worth discussing.
If I find some golden nuggets, then I can say that the author put in reasonable effort to entertain their readers.
As I started flipping page of this book, I noticed there are some sentences that are worth my time to discuss. There is one sentence: "There's no way in the world you, me or anybody else could ever desuckify the jerks." I couldn't stop laughing after I read this sentence. I could sense that Dorsey Bind is really disgusted on something. The author has really made my day great, the only regret I have is, I should have pick up this book earlier. Good work.
This novel has a modern setting surrounding divorced women in the present day. The mindset that may be preventing them from seeing the good of men, especially when Dorsey and Pilar wanted to start a workshop for divorced men. This setting is well-balanced. I like it.
There are many characters that are worth mentioning. Although, Dorsey is the main character. But I prefer to like her best friend Pilar. She is those kind of woman who dared to take action after seeing the slightest business opportunity. She is more like a risk-taker, a go-getter woman that has a no nonsense personality. She is also funny at times. However, there are times when Pilar are always trying to take control over matters, and this pissed Dorsey sometimes. But they forgive and forget and move on. This character resembles me, strong, determined, caring and influencing. A good development of characters for this book.
What I like most of this story is the idea of a workshop for divorced men and how to help them, not knowing that the girls are into the ride of their lives. There are scenes that Dorsey is left helpless on a cruise ship without Pilar, after bracing herself together, she managed to pull it through. Without giving away spoilers, I can say that Dorsey does have the ability to manage this workshop by forming teamwork with others in the workshop. The author has inject a lot of human endurance, persistence, determination, and resolve onto the story. A good move and technique.
This book is open to all ages, man and woman, new adult. If you are into chick lit, women's fiction, romance and etc. I bet you will like this piece of art. The novel is very entertaining throughout the end, and it has Hollywood quality to turn into a movie.
If there's one thing I'd change about this book, I hope to see more clarity and direction of this novel. Even though, this book is more about the divorce workshop, then a book about divorce. This author may want to consider adding more clarity on this.
This book looked great on my Kindle Fire HD tablet It has good formatting and layout without much grammar and spelling issues. Even, if there are, I will affect the whole plot. If you found this review useful, let the community know.
March 20, 2014
I received an e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
If I were reviewing this on Amazon, I would give it four stars. I liked it well enough, but the GR "labels" on their star ratings don't really reflect what I want them to, so I went with the "I liked it" number.
What I liked: I liked the whole thing, really, as far as writing. It took me a little while to get into it, but once I was past the first couple chapters, I enjoyed the progression of events. I won't recount the plot, because a blurb is available already.
The main character, Dorsey, is engaging. She drove me crazy once in awhile with her knee-jerk reactions based on false assumptions, but then again, that was the point of the whole "Divorced Not Dead" workshop: trying to make changes based on what's really happening v. someone's perception of what's happening. Her character, then, was true to the story's purpose.
I also liked the fact that the book was not full of editing and formatting issues. There was nothing obvious that pulled me out of the book.
What I didn't like: the cover, for one thing. I received this as a .mobi file, so I never looked at the cover until I was ready to write my review. I have to be honest and say I would not have picked up this book based on cover appeal.
Something else that was a negative for me: too many characters and too many side stories. There were times when I had to keep reminding myself of the speaker's identity, depending on who was talking. There was the main character, a few girlfriends, her dad & his fiance, her ex-husband, an ex-boyfriend, a HEA guy & his mother, six workshop people (I think six, maybe seven, as it was hard to keep track of all those people), and a variety of minor characters who popped in here and there. So fourteen or fifteen regulars to keep track of...and the people attending the workshop not only had their backstories (which were necessary for workshop purposes) but also current side plots which were dipped into briefly here and there. It was enough to confuse me at times as to who was angry with whom and why that was important enough to include. If the story had focused more centrally on Dorsey only, that might have helped. I didn't really care about most of the workshop characters and didn't need the distraction of their issues.
Overall, though, it was a really nice book. I may simply be one of those people who has less of a tolerance for a large cast of characters. But the writing was decent and the story was cute, which is very refreshing in a self-published novel. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to others, but I can't see myself putting it on my "must read again" shelf.
If I were reviewing this on Amazon, I would give it four stars. I liked it well enough, but the GR "labels" on their star ratings don't really reflect what I want them to, so I went with the "I liked it" number.
What I liked: I liked the whole thing, really, as far as writing. It took me a little while to get into it, but once I was past the first couple chapters, I enjoyed the progression of events. I won't recount the plot, because a blurb is available already.
The main character, Dorsey, is engaging. She drove me crazy once in awhile with her knee-jerk reactions based on false assumptions, but then again, that was the point of the whole "Divorced Not Dead" workshop: trying to make changes based on what's really happening v. someone's perception of what's happening. Her character, then, was true to the story's purpose.
I also liked the fact that the book was not full of editing and formatting issues. There was nothing obvious that pulled me out of the book.
What I didn't like: the cover, for one thing. I received this as a .mobi file, so I never looked at the cover until I was ready to write my review. I have to be honest and say I would not have picked up this book based on cover appeal.
Something else that was a negative for me: too many characters and too many side stories. There were times when I had to keep reminding myself of the speaker's identity, depending on who was talking. There was the main character, a few girlfriends, her dad & his fiance, her ex-husband, an ex-boyfriend, a HEA guy & his mother, six workshop people (I think six, maybe seven, as it was hard to keep track of all those people), and a variety of minor characters who popped in here and there. So fourteen or fifteen regulars to keep track of...and the people attending the workshop not only had their backstories (which were necessary for workshop purposes) but also current side plots which were dipped into briefly here and there. It was enough to confuse me at times as to who was angry with whom and why that was important enough to include. If the story had focused more centrally on Dorsey only, that might have helped. I didn't really care about most of the workshop characters and didn't need the distraction of their issues.
Overall, though, it was a really nice book. I may simply be one of those people who has less of a tolerance for a large cast of characters. But the writing was decent and the story was cute, which is very refreshing in a self-published novel. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to others, but I can't see myself putting it on my "must read again" shelf.
April 8, 2015
Review originally posted on my blog www.livinglifewithjoy.com
The title of the novel, The Divorced Not Dead Workshop, is both clever and descriptive of the story plot. Dorsey Bing has been divorced for five years and she’s still learning to move on with her life and open herself to new relationships. She comes up with the idea to create a workshop to ‘desuckify’ divorced men to help them move along with their lives and become better communicators in their next relationships and ultimately better individuals.
Dorsey’s friends sign on for the workshop idea and that’s where the fun and crazy begins. Throw in a sexy ex-boyfriend, a few hilariously diverse workshop attendees, and a few new possible love interests and you’ve got yourself a recipe for lots of laughs. This novel left me laughing and not wanting to put the book down until I was done. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened in the past that brought all of these people to where they are today and to find out where they would end up.
One of the most important concepts I took from this novel is the idea that we all want to meet someone special but we have to be that someone special too. You have to be comfortable and happy with who you are before you can venture into a new relationship. You have to allow yourself to move on from your past failed relationships [and in this case marriage] and allow yourself to be happy and not let the fear of rejection keep you from opening your heart.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but let’s be honest, we all do it anyway! The author recently updated the cover of this novel and I have to say it was a major improvement. I’m personally a big fan of girly illustrations rather than pictures of real people. Her updated cover is just too cute! And it goes along perfectly with this adorable and entertaining story.
When I rate a novel, I think about if it was humorous or entertaining and whether or not it left me wanting to read more, dying to know what happens next. This novel hit all of my expectations for a fun, entertaining read and that is why I give it 5 glowing stars! Definitely adding this author to my list of go to authors. Can’t wait to see what else she’s cooked up for her readers.
My Rating: 5/5 Stars
Bliss Book Promotions provided me with a free copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review. Receiving novels free of charge in no way reflects on my honest opinion and no monetary compensation was provided for my review. I encourage you to write reviews and share them!
The title of the novel, The Divorced Not Dead Workshop, is both clever and descriptive of the story plot. Dorsey Bing has been divorced for five years and she’s still learning to move on with her life and open herself to new relationships. She comes up with the idea to create a workshop to ‘desuckify’ divorced men to help them move along with their lives and become better communicators in their next relationships and ultimately better individuals.
Dorsey’s friends sign on for the workshop idea and that’s where the fun and crazy begins. Throw in a sexy ex-boyfriend, a few hilariously diverse workshop attendees, and a few new possible love interests and you’ve got yourself a recipe for lots of laughs. This novel left me laughing and not wanting to put the book down until I was done. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened in the past that brought all of these people to where they are today and to find out where they would end up.
One of the most important concepts I took from this novel is the idea that we all want to meet someone special but we have to be that someone special too. You have to be comfortable and happy with who you are before you can venture into a new relationship. You have to allow yourself to move on from your past failed relationships [and in this case marriage] and allow yourself to be happy and not let the fear of rejection keep you from opening your heart.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I know you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, but let’s be honest, we all do it anyway! The author recently updated the cover of this novel and I have to say it was a major improvement. I’m personally a big fan of girly illustrations rather than pictures of real people. Her updated cover is just too cute! And it goes along perfectly with this adorable and entertaining story.
When I rate a novel, I think about if it was humorous or entertaining and whether or not it left me wanting to read more, dying to know what happens next. This novel hit all of my expectations for a fun, entertaining read and that is why I give it 5 glowing stars! Definitely adding this author to my list of go to authors. Can’t wait to see what else she’s cooked up for her readers.
My Rating: 5/5 Stars
Bliss Book Promotions provided me with a free copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review. Receiving novels free of charge in no way reflects on my honest opinion and no monetary compensation was provided for my review. I encourage you to write reviews and share them!
January 13, 2014
The main protagonist is Dorsey Bing, in her mid-thirties and divorced for the past 5 years, she seriously has to sort her life out (both relationship status and work situation). So her 2 best friends and Dorsey come up with the idea of a workshop for divorced people, as they are 'divorced - and not dead'. She is not too keen first but just has to go with it. The story pretty much plays out for the duration of the workshop and the days immediately prior and after. Different characters, both men and women, attend the workshop, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them and their different stories and how they changed or, in some cases, how my perception of them changed. I initially had problems to distinguish between the different people, however, in a chapter or two it all becomes clear, as all the characters are distinctive and well drawn out.
Dorsey's background is slowly revealed during the book - the story of her divorce etc. While this is a serious subject, it is tackled with a wonderful sense of humour, and here for me lies the real strength of this book. I did laugh with Dorsey, and there can't be many of us who haven't' experienced, for example, going to a public toilet and finding droplets on the seat (nice!!). Or how about this: you have some saved money and you are sure you are going to save for that special occasion /special frock, and than suddenly… yep, something else, very urgent, has come up. I highlighted quite a few phrases where I thought 'this is too funny, I should use this' (not in a book, but in entertaining my co-workers). The story is very contemporary, with references for example to Ebay, listening to Joss Stone. These are things I can image myself doing.
My favourite character, as so often for me, was actually one of the 'supporting cast' - Ralph, Dorsey's stepfather. Quite simply because if I would ever need/have a stepfather, I would like to have someone like Ralph. I deliberately did not tell you anything about Dorsey's love interest/s in this review -you would have to find out yourself.
The book is not so much about finding 'Mr Right', but more about 'finding the courage to get out there again'. As a first novel, this is very promising and I would certainly read CeCe Osgood again. It made my daily commute go very quick and put a smile on my face.
Dorsey's background is slowly revealed during the book - the story of her divorce etc. While this is a serious subject, it is tackled with a wonderful sense of humour, and here for me lies the real strength of this book. I did laugh with Dorsey, and there can't be many of us who haven't' experienced, for example, going to a public toilet and finding droplets on the seat (nice!!). Or how about this: you have some saved money and you are sure you are going to save for that special occasion /special frock, and than suddenly… yep, something else, very urgent, has come up. I highlighted quite a few phrases where I thought 'this is too funny, I should use this' (not in a book, but in entertaining my co-workers). The story is very contemporary, with references for example to Ebay, listening to Joss Stone. These are things I can image myself doing.
My favourite character, as so often for me, was actually one of the 'supporting cast' - Ralph, Dorsey's stepfather. Quite simply because if I would ever need/have a stepfather, I would like to have someone like Ralph. I deliberately did not tell you anything about Dorsey's love interest/s in this review -you would have to find out yourself.
The book is not so much about finding 'Mr Right', but more about 'finding the courage to get out there again'. As a first novel, this is very promising and I would certainly read CeCe Osgood again. It made my daily commute go very quick and put a smile on my face.
August 1, 2014
In The Divorced Not Dead Workshop by CeCe Osgood, Dorsey has been divorced for five years and was dumped a few months ago without explanation by her boyfriend. She is also not one to follow through with most of her ideas. But her idea of the Divorce Not Dead Workshop sparks the interest of her best friend, Pilar. Though Dorsey is hesitant, she reluctantly agrees to help Pilar run the workshop as long as Pilar is the one in charge and handling everything. Because Pilar scheduled the first workshop on the same weekend as Dorsey’s stepfather’s wedding, they decide to do the workshop on the cruise they are already going to be on. With unexpected circumstances resulting in her being in charge, the arrival of her stepfather’s fiancée’s seemingly irritating nephew, Finn, unenthusiastic guests of the workshop, and the return of her ex-boyfriend, Dorsey must figure out a way to not only make the workshop a success but also learn to follow her own advice.
I am a huge fan of chick-lit books, but I can usually comfortably put them down and continue reading them later. However, that was not the case with The Divorced Not Dead Workshop. Each chapter ended in a way that made it practically impossible to put down, which resulted in a lack of sleep, but it was definitely worth it! This book was fantastically written with a fun and entertaining plot from beginning to end. The concept of the Divorced Not Dead workshop was creative, and I even found myself taking the advice given at the workshop. I have not been through a divorce, but the advice and techniques discussed were helpful and can apply to life in general. What I enjoyed most about this book was the characters; CeCe Osgood’s brilliant storytelling ability brought each and every one of them to life. From the quirky and interesting attendees of the workshop to Dorsey’s charming stepfather and his loveable bride-to-be, they each brought something to the story. Plus, the blossoming but complicated relationship between Dorsey and Finn made the book that much more interesting with some heartwarming scenes. I could go on and on about the positives of this book because there really weren’t any negatives. I am ecstatic that I discovered this new author, and I hope to see much more work from her.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
I am a huge fan of chick-lit books, but I can usually comfortably put them down and continue reading them later. However, that was not the case with The Divorced Not Dead Workshop. Each chapter ended in a way that made it practically impossible to put down, which resulted in a lack of sleep, but it was definitely worth it! This book was fantastically written with a fun and entertaining plot from beginning to end. The concept of the Divorced Not Dead workshop was creative, and I even found myself taking the advice given at the workshop. I have not been through a divorce, but the advice and techniques discussed were helpful and can apply to life in general. What I enjoyed most about this book was the characters; CeCe Osgood’s brilliant storytelling ability brought each and every one of them to life. From the quirky and interesting attendees of the workshop to Dorsey’s charming stepfather and his loveable bride-to-be, they each brought something to the story. Plus, the blossoming but complicated relationship between Dorsey and Finn made the book that much more interesting with some heartwarming scenes. I could go on and on about the positives of this book because there really weren’t any negatives. I am ecstatic that I discovered this new author, and I hope to see much more work from her.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
February 16, 2017
Mark Twain was right when he said “Humor is mankind’s greatest blessing”. Author CeCe Osgood has blessed us with humor, love, sass, laughs and a few tears in this fun story. This book mixes likeable and relatable characters of all ages and interests with the challenges of modern-day love. Main character and all around good gal Dorsey Bing lets her friends talk her into presenting a divorce recovery workshop on a cruise to Cabo. That hook is enough to make you love this book, and it only gets better. Whether or not we have experienced divorce, anyone who is not dead will be able to relate to the quest for love and understanding. As one of the friends tells Dorsey, “They weren’t dumb. You said we all want to find someone special. But first, we have to be someone special.” I highly recommend this zingy chick lit story.
January 18, 2014
The book title is the first thing that caught my attention. The Divorced Not Dead Workshop. I was excited to read this book.
In this book, we got to know Dorsey who founded the Divorced Not Dead Workshop with the help of her girl friends, Pilar and Mimi. Of course things didn't go well for the start and there were hiccups throughout the workshop but Dorsey always managed to think of something to resolve it and got everyone together. The workshop is definitely not the only thing that will be happening in this book. The sparks and romance between Dorsey and Finn, the nephew of her step-father's bride-to-be, makes up a majority part of the book.
The book started out slow and I was really into the writing style. I felt that the story was kind of rushed and it moves from one scene to another before I had a grasp of what it was all about.
Things got better when the workshop finally got started. The story flows much better and I loved reading about the problem of each of the participants of the workshop. Finn is definitely another great addition at this point of the book, although his mother is a pain in the ass. I loved reading the interactions before him and Dorsey but I felt that there are way too many misunderstandings between them that I started to lose interest in it towards the end of the book. And of course like what Ralph said in the book "we were divorced not dead, and it was time to move on with life."
The premises of the story is interesting and I was intrigued by the workshop carried out in the book. It is a light and easy read for me as there wasn't too many heavy content which would bore me to death. However, the flow of the story wasn't really smooth and I had problem trying to know who Melissa is and that wasn't explained until halfway through the book, although her names came up various times.
Overall, I would recommend this book to chick-lit lovers who wants to take their mind off heavy books.
Note: I have received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
In this book, we got to know Dorsey who founded the Divorced Not Dead Workshop with the help of her girl friends, Pilar and Mimi. Of course things didn't go well for the start and there were hiccups throughout the workshop but Dorsey always managed to think of something to resolve it and got everyone together. The workshop is definitely not the only thing that will be happening in this book. The sparks and romance between Dorsey and Finn, the nephew of her step-father's bride-to-be, makes up a majority part of the book.
The book started out slow and I was really into the writing style. I felt that the story was kind of rushed and it moves from one scene to another before I had a grasp of what it was all about.
Things got better when the workshop finally got started. The story flows much better and I loved reading about the problem of each of the participants of the workshop. Finn is definitely another great addition at this point of the book, although his mother is a pain in the ass. I loved reading the interactions before him and Dorsey but I felt that there are way too many misunderstandings between them that I started to lose interest in it towards the end of the book. And of course like what Ralph said in the book "we were divorced not dead, and it was time to move on with life."
The premises of the story is interesting and I was intrigued by the workshop carried out in the book. It is a light and easy read for me as there wasn't too many heavy content which would bore me to death. However, the flow of the story wasn't really smooth and I had problem trying to know who Melissa is and that wasn't explained until halfway through the book, although her names came up various times.
Overall, I would recommend this book to chick-lit lovers who wants to take their mind off heavy books.
Note: I have received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2014
Best friends Dorsey Bing, Pilar, and Mimi are all likable and realistic characters. Dorsey hits on an idea to “desuckify” men by teaching them how to not be jerks with a dating workshop. Pilar, being an event planner, jumps on the idea. Mimi is the quiet mysterious friend who goes along for support. When Pilar books the workshop in the same week as a previously planned wedding cruise, the workshop is moved to a cruise ship going to Cabo San Lucas. Dorsey’s stepfather entertains on the ship and is planning to wed Audrey, Theo’s aunt by marriage, in Cabo.
When Pilar ends up missing the ship, Dorsey has no choice but to step-up and run the workshop without Pilar’s notes or game plan. Dorsey is stressed, ill prepared, and insecure, but rises to the challenge in order to save Pilar’s reputation. The participants in the workshop are a small group of diverse, well realized characters that consist of both men and women who are having trouble sustaining relationships after their divorces. At first the workshop felt like I was reading a self-help book until the characters started to get involved with the exercises of changing their expectations when meeting new people. It was entertaining watching the different personalities learn to converse and lower the walls each had built around themselves as they each grew more confident.
The story is told through Dorsey. She is smart, funny, kind, and a bit too impulsive for her own good. She ends up learning a lot about herself during her Divorced Not Dead Workshop. Unfortunately, I came across several proofing errors that need further attention. These range from missing words or quote marks to extra words scattered throughout the story. This is a light, surprisingly insightful, entertaining read with several humorous elements that is well worth investing in another round of proofreading.
Format/Typo Issues: I found a significant number of proofing errors throughout this story.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** November 29, 2014
When Pilar ends up missing the ship, Dorsey has no choice but to step-up and run the workshop without Pilar’s notes or game plan. Dorsey is stressed, ill prepared, and insecure, but rises to the challenge in order to save Pilar’s reputation. The participants in the workshop are a small group of diverse, well realized characters that consist of both men and women who are having trouble sustaining relationships after their divorces. At first the workshop felt like I was reading a self-help book until the characters started to get involved with the exercises of changing their expectations when meeting new people. It was entertaining watching the different personalities learn to converse and lower the walls each had built around themselves as they each grew more confident.
The story is told through Dorsey. She is smart, funny, kind, and a bit too impulsive for her own good. She ends up learning a lot about herself during her Divorced Not Dead Workshop. Unfortunately, I came across several proofing errors that need further attention. These range from missing words or quote marks to extra words scattered throughout the story. This is a light, surprisingly insightful, entertaining read with several humorous elements that is well worth investing in another round of proofreading.
Format/Typo Issues: I found a significant number of proofing errors throughout this story.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** November 29, 2014
May 17, 2014
Original review is posted on
This Chick Reads
Dorsey Bing got divorced five years ago. Since than, boyfriends come and go, no one is “the real thing’. So she has an idea, to create a workshop for divorced people, how to move on after the divorce. Her only supporter is her friend Pilar. But Dorsey’s widowed stepfather is getting married and the bride, Audrey,wants Dorsey to be her bridesmaid. They organize the wedding on a cruise, the very same weekend when the workshop starts. Plan B: The workshop moves on the cruise. But Pilar is nowhere to be seen, so Dorsey starts on her own. But she never planned her ex Theo to show up on the boat. Also, that horrible Finn, Audrey’s nephew is there for the wedding. And Dorsey has to run the workshop all by herself.
Dorsey Bing is such an adorable MC. Always clumsy, with so many bright ideas, always there for the others. She is really a nice person, but when it comes to men, she always listens to others. After the break-up with Theo, her recent boyfriend, she doesn’t trust men anymore. But there is Finn, Audrey’s nephew who’s always been the bad boy, according to Theo. He shows up on the wedding, and there is Theo again, trying to gain her heart again. Dorsey reminds me a lot of Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice. Who is Mr. Darcy, well, I’ll leave you to read the book.
The adventure on the boat is full of emotional moments, but funny ones too. There were many scenes that made me laugh so hard. Dorsey and Pilar are such a dynamic duo. And the boys, well Finn, with that British accent, mmmm! And Theo has such a gorgeous body.
Overall, it’s a enjoyable read with a serious theme to discuss, how to move on after the divorce. I loved all the characters and the plot, which reminded me a lot of Pride and Prejudice, as I mentioned before. It’s an interesting mix and I totally enjoyed it.
Dorsey Bing got divorced five years ago. Since than, boyfriends come and go, no one is “the real thing’. So she has an idea, to create a workshop for divorced people, how to move on after the divorce. Her only supporter is her friend Pilar. But Dorsey’s widowed stepfather is getting married and the bride, Audrey,wants Dorsey to be her bridesmaid. They organize the wedding on a cruise, the very same weekend when the workshop starts. Plan B: The workshop moves on the cruise. But Pilar is nowhere to be seen, so Dorsey starts on her own. But she never planned her ex Theo to show up on the boat. Also, that horrible Finn, Audrey’s nephew is there for the wedding. And Dorsey has to run the workshop all by herself.
Dorsey Bing is such an adorable MC. Always clumsy, with so many bright ideas, always there for the others. She is really a nice person, but when it comes to men, she always listens to others. After the break-up with Theo, her recent boyfriend, she doesn’t trust men anymore. But there is Finn, Audrey’s nephew who’s always been the bad boy, according to Theo. He shows up on the wedding, and there is Theo again, trying to gain her heart again. Dorsey reminds me a lot of Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice. Who is Mr. Darcy, well, I’ll leave you to read the book.
The adventure on the boat is full of emotional moments, but funny ones too. There were many scenes that made me laugh so hard. Dorsey and Pilar are such a dynamic duo. And the boys, well Finn, with that British accent, mmmm! And Theo has such a gorgeous body.
Overall, it’s a enjoyable read with a serious theme to discuss, how to move on after the divorce. I loved all the characters and the plot, which reminded me a lot of Pride and Prejudice, as I mentioned before. It’s an interesting mix and I totally enjoyed it.
June 4, 2014
Thank you to CeCe for sending me a copy of this book for review. I really liked this novel, it was quick and easy to read and gave me a good giggle along the way.
What I loved about this book is that it isn't like a lot of books where woman want to find 'Mr Right', it is simply about having the courage to get back out there after a divorce.
The whole book has a completely new concept to others I have read, you may usually find divorced woman living alone just seeing out the days, going on a few dates and then maybe finding a new man in a simple yet typical way. That's what makes the book stand out from the rest, Dorsey and her 2 best friends realise they are just divorced and not dead, creating the idea of the workshop for other divorced people. The story then goes from there and builds up into a great novel. I loved getting to know the different characters of the people that attended the workshop and the stories they had to tell. The characters are so well written which I think is the reason you get so hooked, it's crazy how you far through the book you get without realising.
I loved how Dorsey and her story is revealed throughout the book and you don't just learn everything right at the start, she is so easily relatable and I'm sure things that happen to her along the way have happened to us all! The things that CeCe writes references to make Dorsey so much more real. At times you feel like you are in the story with her. She definitely had to be my favourite character. This book was so funny I actually laughed out loud in some parts.
I am deliberately being very vague in this review as I want everybody to pick up a copy of this book, it is a perfect quick summer read that will get you hooked and leave you wanting more. This is CeCe's first novel and if it is anything to go by I cannot wait to read the next one.
What I loved about this book is that it isn't like a lot of books where woman want to find 'Mr Right', it is simply about having the courage to get back out there after a divorce.
The whole book has a completely new concept to others I have read, you may usually find divorced woman living alone just seeing out the days, going on a few dates and then maybe finding a new man in a simple yet typical way. That's what makes the book stand out from the rest, Dorsey and her 2 best friends realise they are just divorced and not dead, creating the idea of the workshop for other divorced people. The story then goes from there and builds up into a great novel. I loved getting to know the different characters of the people that attended the workshop and the stories they had to tell. The characters are so well written which I think is the reason you get so hooked, it's crazy how you far through the book you get without realising.
I loved how Dorsey and her story is revealed throughout the book and you don't just learn everything right at the start, she is so easily relatable and I'm sure things that happen to her along the way have happened to us all! The things that CeCe writes references to make Dorsey so much more real. At times you feel like you are in the story with her. She definitely had to be my favourite character. This book was so funny I actually laughed out loud in some parts.
I am deliberately being very vague in this review as I want everybody to pick up a copy of this book, it is a perfect quick summer read that will get you hooked and leave you wanting more. This is CeCe's first novel and if it is anything to go by I cannot wait to read the next one.
August 3, 2016
Dorsey Bing is the eternal idea girl, but her follow through is crap. A drunken tirade after seeing her last boyfriend with a younger, newer model of female has her coming up with The Divorced Not Dead Workshop; a reform platform to desuckify men to make them better mating and dating material. Usually her two best friends, Mimi and Pilar, allow Dorsey’s inspired notions to dissipate with her lack of ambition but this one is something to which Pilar is deeply attached. Soon Dorsey is facing a group of formerly married people who are expecting Pilar, Dorsey is ill-prepared, feeling unqualified and predicting failure at being able to pull off a four day workshop about self-discovery and awareness. This insightful and funny novel is a keen look at the complexity of risk and failure and learning how to learn to trust yourself and others.
To see my review of The Dead Not Divorced Workshop please check outWeekend Pick Me Up - Divorced Not Dead Workshop by CeCe Osgood
Check out CeCe's Weekly Indie Word Slinger - CeCe Osgood on my blog, All The Things Inbetween, part of the Weekly Indie Word Slinger Project 2014
#CeCeOsgood #TheDeadNotDivorcedWorkshop #WeeklyIndieWordSlinger #WordSlingerProject #Divorce #RomComFiction #Romance #ContemporaryRomance #WeekendPickMeUp #SelfDiscovery #ChickLit #IndieFever
To see my review of The Dead Not Divorced Workshop please check outWeekend Pick Me Up - Divorced Not Dead Workshop by CeCe Osgood
Check out CeCe's Weekly Indie Word Slinger - CeCe Osgood on my blog, All The Things Inbetween, part of the Weekly Indie Word Slinger Project 2014
#CeCeOsgood #TheDeadNotDivorcedWorkshop #WeeklyIndieWordSlinger #WordSlingerProject #Divorce #RomComFiction #Romance #ContemporaryRomance #WeekendPickMeUp #SelfDiscovery #ChickLit #IndieFever
December 31, 2015
Although I wasn't entirely sure about this book when I started reading it very quickly became a very funny read which I really enjoyed.
Dorsey Bing is a divorcee who has had no luck on the dating scene since. She has had enough and happens to mention a possible workshop for fellow divorcees while on a night out with her friends, Pilar and Mimi. That innocent remark quickly gets taken up by those friends and they decide that it is a brilliant idea.
While organising the finer details of the workshop Dorsey discovers that the timing isn't possible due to the wedding of her stepfather. However with Pilar's help everything starts to come together again.
However things don't go at all smoothly, starting with the disappearance of one of the key characters at a rather importune moment. From that moment on the story becomes a hilarious mismatch of characters, situations you definitely won't be expecting, and some brilliantly written scenarios.
The characters we meet who attend the workshop are so mismatched I honestly didn't think they would ever truly appreciate all the work which had gone into organising it. But as the story goes on they begin to gel in such a way you won't fail to enjoy.
There is, of course, romance thrown into the story. But I won't spoil it and tell you for who.
This was a really good, funny read which I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend to anyone wanting a nice, genuine, simple book.
Dorsey Bing is a divorcee who has had no luck on the dating scene since. She has had enough and happens to mention a possible workshop for fellow divorcees while on a night out with her friends, Pilar and Mimi. That innocent remark quickly gets taken up by those friends and they decide that it is a brilliant idea.
While organising the finer details of the workshop Dorsey discovers that the timing isn't possible due to the wedding of her stepfather. However with Pilar's help everything starts to come together again.
However things don't go at all smoothly, starting with the disappearance of one of the key characters at a rather importune moment. From that moment on the story becomes a hilarious mismatch of characters, situations you definitely won't be expecting, and some brilliantly written scenarios.
The characters we meet who attend the workshop are so mismatched I honestly didn't think they would ever truly appreciate all the work which had gone into organising it. But as the story goes on they begin to gel in such a way you won't fail to enjoy.
There is, of course, romance thrown into the story. But I won't spoil it and tell you for who.
This was a really good, funny read which I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend to anyone wanting a nice, genuine, simple book.
March 1, 2014
I was given this book for free by the author for an honest review. I was worried for the first few chapters that I wasn't going to like this book but I ended up enjoying the story.
I had a really hard time with the beginning of the book because I just didn't like the main character, she came off as just to wishy-washy to me and I never really got to like her through the book. There were other characters that I did like very much to make up for it. Osgood does a good job with giving and writing different personalities into her characters but wasn't as strong with bringing the descriptions of the people to mind. Some you read and the person comes clear in your mind but not so much with this one.
I liked the way that the workshop and story was presented. I was entertained without feeling like I was being lectured at in a workshop. I do wish that along with the workshop the time outside of the workshop had been explored more. The story is billed as a romance but we never really saw much interaction between the couples.
Overall, while the story didn't shine as brightly as it could have I thought this was a good, entertaining story and would check out other books written by this author.
I had a really hard time with the beginning of the book because I just didn't like the main character, she came off as just to wishy-washy to me and I never really got to like her through the book. There were other characters that I did like very much to make up for it. Osgood does a good job with giving and writing different personalities into her characters but wasn't as strong with bringing the descriptions of the people to mind. Some you read and the person comes clear in your mind but not so much with this one.
I liked the way that the workshop and story was presented. I was entertained without feeling like I was being lectured at in a workshop. I do wish that along with the workshop the time outside of the workshop had been explored more. The story is billed as a romance but we never really saw much interaction between the couples.
Overall, while the story didn't shine as brightly as it could have I thought this was a good, entertaining story and would check out other books written by this author.
February 18, 2014
*Received a copy from author for an honest review
We start off by being are introduced to Dosery Bing and her friends Pilar and Mimi while out shopping and Dorsey mentions an idea for a 'desuckify men' workshop called "Divorced Not Dead". Pilar and Mimi love the idea but Dorsey isn't a person to follow through with her ideas. Pilar decides to 'persuade' Dorsey into doing the workshop with her help. But life decides to have some fun and throw some kinks into the plan.
This was an interesting read for me and honestly not something I initially would have grabbed myself, this was more something a friend of mine would have recommended to me in a heartbeat. I ended up enjoying this very much, I really liked how it makes you think of your own relationship(s) that you have/had in your life and whether or not you followed any of the advice Dorsey ran through during the workshop. And while not overly humorous there was enough to make you chuckle and the same could be said for any drama and emotional upheavals that went on in the book. I found it to be a fun depiction of something that could happen in real life. I'll definitely be recommended this one to some of my friends.
We start off by being are introduced to Dosery Bing and her friends Pilar and Mimi while out shopping and Dorsey mentions an idea for a 'desuckify men' workshop called "Divorced Not Dead". Pilar and Mimi love the idea but Dorsey isn't a person to follow through with her ideas. Pilar decides to 'persuade' Dorsey into doing the workshop with her help. But life decides to have some fun and throw some kinks into the plan.
This was an interesting read for me and honestly not something I initially would have grabbed myself, this was more something a friend of mine would have recommended to me in a heartbeat. I ended up enjoying this very much, I really liked how it makes you think of your own relationship(s) that you have/had in your life and whether or not you followed any of the advice Dorsey ran through during the workshop. And while not overly humorous there was enough to make you chuckle and the same could be said for any drama and emotional upheavals that went on in the book. I found it to be a fun depiction of something that could happen in real life. I'll definitely be recommended this one to some of my friends.
January 29, 2014
Title: The Divorced Not Dead Workshop
Author: CeCe Osgood
Published: C.C.O.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Review:.
"The Divorced Not Dead Workshop" by CeCe Osgood was a good well written read that was very enlightening, refreshing and somewhat humorous to me. I am sure that many divorcee could relate to this 'psychological level' of some of the workshop items. What was very interesting was how this author was able to present this realism that was told with such humor. I found the characters were all very believable and so well portrayed with the 'quarrels and even their flirtations.' The plot will keep you guessing and I finally found out just why Dorsey was so worked up with Melissa Street. Now, this is where I will say you must pick up "The Divorced not Dead Workshop" to see how this author will bring it out to the reader. I found it very entertaining from the first pages till the last and it will keep your attention. If you are in for a unique storyline then you have come to the right place and I would recommend this read for you. Be ready for a good novel that will have some 'angst and misunderstandings' but will all works out in the end.
January 11, 2014
Dorsey Bing 35 divorced boyfriend dumps her she's made redundant so life is at an all time low. She has this idea of a workshop for divorced men to desuckify them but Dorseys problem is she never follows through. Her friend Pilar likes the idea and starts to set up the workshop and make Dorsey the host of it which of course she would prefer to have nothing to do with it. A mix up happens and the workshop has to be held on a cruise ship Pilar misses the boat and the whole thing is left for Dorsey to deal with and then the fun begins.
I can honestly say I loved the book the storyline the characters the whole make up. All the characters were very strong and I was brought on a journey of how each of them were individually and with each other as a group. The book really flowed and kept my attention. Witty laugh out loud and even brought a tear. I would definitely recommend this book to all ages.
Book given to me from author for an honest review
I can honestly say I loved the book the storyline the characters the whole make up. All the characters were very strong and I was brought on a journey of how each of them were individually and with each other as a group. The book really flowed and kept my attention. Witty laugh out loud and even brought a tear. I would definitely recommend this book to all ages.
Book given to me from author for an honest review
January 27, 2014
This is not the kind of book I normally read but I did engage with Dorsey, the main character, and her rather accident-prone life. This engagement drove me on to turn the pages.
The scene settings are glamorous enough to attract the young adult reader, with details of dress and venues to aspire to.
An attractive, able person with two good friends, Dorsey has not managed to make either career or marriage work. A chance remark about divorce makes her more proactive friend encourage Dorsey to run the Divorced not Dead workshop as a business. I liked this concept and hoped to see how it would work out in theoretical practice. However, the story is really a romance hindered all the way along by the novel's antagonists, by misunderstandings and finally, it's revealed, by Dorsey's own attitudes stemming from her past.
All is satisfactorily resolved in the final chapter and we end just before the happy couple couple!
The scene settings are glamorous enough to attract the young adult reader, with details of dress and venues to aspire to.
An attractive, able person with two good friends, Dorsey has not managed to make either career or marriage work. A chance remark about divorce makes her more proactive friend encourage Dorsey to run the Divorced not Dead workshop as a business. I liked this concept and hoped to see how it would work out in theoretical practice. However, the story is really a romance hindered all the way along by the novel's antagonists, by misunderstandings and finally, it's revealed, by Dorsey's own attitudes stemming from her past.
All is satisfactorily resolved in the final chapter and we end just before the happy couple couple!
February 5, 2014
I found this book to be a cute read, I didn't find it to be funny. But I did find it to be cute, I smiled and chuckled a time or two.I really had a hard time getting into it, but around chapter 10 it started to get my attention. This is a book about finding out how to deal with relationships, understanding what you mean, and want. Which isn't always how you thought you saw it. There are a lot of nice characters here with a lot to say. This book reminds us things aren't always as they seem, to never take it at face value, look a little deeper to find the correct answers. Never point a finger or think you know it all because you sure do not.
It isn't a book about divorce so much as a book on how to come out, meet people and start again. We each have crap to deal with as those in this book do. They work it out and it gives us a little insite on how to deal with issues, and people. All in all it was a nice read.
It isn't a book about divorce so much as a book on how to come out, meet people and start again. We each have crap to deal with as those in this book do. They work it out and it gives us a little insite on how to deal with issues, and people. All in all it was a nice read.
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