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Meet Me In Manhattan
In a New York minute, everything can change …
Holly Johnson is at a crossroads in her life. She wants to make it as a real journalist, and she’s dreaming of falling in love.
She’s so close to getting her break at work, and she’s met a very special guy. Well, she hasn’t actually met him … not yet. But everyone knows most relationships start online these days. And she’s on to a winner with this one. Isn’t she?
But something is not quite right with Andy McCoy – and he’s about to learn you don’t mess with Holly Johnson. She decides to fly to New York to find the truth.
Holly is about to get the shock of her life.
What she finds in Manhattan swiftly turns into a nightmare.
But maybe – just maybe – if Holly is true to herself, she can turn this nightmare into a dream come true …
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2015
61 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Carroll
42 books454 followersClaudia was born in Dublin and is a graduate of UCD, the College of Music and of the Gaiety School of Acting. Since then she has worked extensively as an actress on the Irish stage, but is probably best known for her role as TV’s Nicola Prendergast in the long running Dublin soap opera, ‘Fair City.’
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
November 11, 2015
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
* Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review *
Together with Marian Keyes, Cecelia Ahern and Cathy Kelly, Claudia Carroll is probably one of the most well known Irish chick lit authors. Generally, I find Irish fiction fascinating, but I'm absolutely blown away by the talent of the authors from the chick lit/women's fiction genre. It's like, they should be classified separately, giving the (usually) predictable chick lit genre a completely new spin.
Ms Carroll is an amazingly talented author who knows how to deliver a good, fun and clever rom com with just the perfect dose of fresh humour. Her characters simply want to jump off the pages, you feel them so real.
Being familiar with Ms Carroll's writing and the knack she has for creating these amazing, romantic stories with a HEA we so desperately wish to happen in every romance book we read, I admit that I had high expectations for 'Meet Me in Manhattan'. But this book exceeded them all and actually completely blew me away!
The story is centered around Holly, who's single and trying herself in online dating. She finds it much easier and more comfortable, considering she works long hours as a researcher for a show. She's a hard working lady, despite the cuts in her company, she's still doing whole 8 hour job and doing her best to find her own path to success. However, the long hours are not the only reason why's she's turned to online dating.
She meets an adorable man online, who seems to be just the perfect guy for her. He's stable, romantic yet not in a cheesy way, affectionate, and in a short time span she feels this strong bond between them. From the site, they move on to exchanging numbers, though he does all the calling. His voice is the first thing she hears in the morning, and the last thing before bed. He sounds dreamy and seems like Holly is slightly falling for him. But there's a catch, she's from Dublin and he lives on the other side of the world, in Atlanta, USA. Will their relationship succeed? Is there any chance of a progress in relationship when two people live so far away from each other? And what happens when she finds out Mr Perfect is not exactly who he says he is? What if Holly's about to 'give him some of his medicine' and show him no one messes with her?
Oh, what a brilliant, clever, fun rom com this was! You're immediately hooked and totally immersed in the story you even forget about the time or your other commitments. I read it in about 5 hours, yes that fast! It's so addictive and unique in so many ways.
One of the most fascinating things is the fact that it had so many twists which, I repeat, you rarely see in chick lit. Without putting any spoilers, I can only say these twists took me completely by surprise! WOW! The story took a completely new turn and I seriously had no idea what would happen next. The pacing is unbelievable! Things continue happening and they simply flow, pulling you deeper and deeper into the story. Another thing which I loved is one of the messages it sends about the online dating. As fun as it might look like, one could easily get burned. We all have to admit the dating culture has changed quite a bit in the last decade or so. With the constant use of internet and social medias just popping out of nowhere, and the constant chase for security and money, so many single people turn to online dating. Which comes with its perks but also perils.
As for the characters, they were simply amazing! So unique and memorable, I honestly think I will be looking for Holly in every next chick lit book I read. And don't make me go into the vivid descriptions of Manhattan...oh dear lord, it's like you step into this machine and are immediately transported to Manhattan, breathing and walking on these streets and looking at the monumental architecture you only ever see in your fave rom coms. It was really one of a kind, magical experience. It's like I visited the States without ever leaving the comfort of my sofa. Simply unbelievable!
And yet, despite having that strong feel-good factor, my eyes were teary on several occasions. It was at those moments that I felt Holly's personality even more, really got to know her and her real reasons why she dreads Christmas. Speaking of Christmas, though the story is happening during the holiday season and you get to feel all the magic in spending Christmas in the city that never sleeps, it's not the typical Christmas read. At least, not according to me. It can definitely be read and enjoyed no matter the season, but if you want my opinion, this time of the year with Christmas fast approaching would be the perfect timing.
If I had to sum up this book in only one word, it would be BRILLIANT! Perfect rom com which I pray to god is made into a movie because it sure deserves! It would be AMAZING to see it on the big screens and I have no doubts it would be a hit! I've read many chick lits, many of them were good and made me laugh and forget about all my problems. But this book..it's something else. It's more than that, it's like the perfect anti-stress therapy you need to fully relax, and once you finish it you feel all refreshed. I kid you not! I shall call it 'The Claudia Carroll effect' from now. Simply brilliant, this is a book not to be missed! Big fat five stars only because I can't give it more.
December 21, 2015
*Book provided by the publisher on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
So, I actually can’t really believe it myself, but Meet Me in Manhattan is the first book by Claudia Carroll I’ve read. It will certainly not be the last one, because I totally fell in love with her writing.
This beautiful and deep story follows aspiring journalist Holly Johnson. She is really passionate about her job. With Christmas coming closer she gets quiet and introverted. Online however she is different, especially since she met Andy, a Delta airline pilot from Atlanta. She falls for him, but he almost seems to be too good to be true. The arrange a few dates, but he always cancels.
This got me so hooked! I just wanted for him to finally make an appearance, I was so curious about it all.
Just then her friends locate the sender of all these messages, he’s located in New York City. She flys to New York and discovers the person behind it! Afterwards the story develops in an unexpected way, which was great. The whole thing is full of twists and turns. A lot of surprises, which make the story really exciting and unputdownable!!!
Holly gets to experience New York City around Christmas and New Years Eve and through all of this she gets to know a family, that will warm her heart. Holly also goes through the process of dealing with her past, her origin and she learns to forgive and forget. I think this book covers many sensitive topics and it all comes together in a wonderful way in this book.
All the characters in this book are really unique and special. Their personalities come across really well and together they create a wonderful little group, playing together so well. The atmosphere is unbeatable and full of everything. There are funny moments, sweet ones, emotional ones and also shocking ones.
I actually didn’t want to leave the characters in the end, I feel like there is more in store for them. I wish I could tell you more here, but that would ruin the story for you, just read it yourself!!!!
Claudia makes New York feel so alive and describes all these places in a fantastic way. It just makes you want to go to New York immediately. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. It’s gripping, touching and covers several topics, that make it more than just a chick-lit novel. Claudia is a very talented author, who makes a story incredible with her writing. This book is BRILLIANT!!!!! I definitely have to read more of Claudia’s books.
So, I actually can’t really believe it myself, but Meet Me in Manhattan is the first book by Claudia Carroll I’ve read. It will certainly not be the last one, because I totally fell in love with her writing.
This beautiful and deep story follows aspiring journalist Holly Johnson. She is really passionate about her job. With Christmas coming closer she gets quiet and introverted. Online however she is different, especially since she met Andy, a Delta airline pilot from Atlanta. She falls for him, but he almost seems to be too good to be true. The arrange a few dates, but he always cancels.
This got me so hooked! I just wanted for him to finally make an appearance, I was so curious about it all.
Just then her friends locate the sender of all these messages, he’s located in New York City. She flys to New York and discovers the person behind it! Afterwards the story develops in an unexpected way, which was great. The whole thing is full of twists and turns. A lot of surprises, which make the story really exciting and unputdownable!!!
Holly gets to experience New York City around Christmas and New Years Eve and through all of this she gets to know a family, that will warm her heart. Holly also goes through the process of dealing with her past, her origin and she learns to forgive and forget. I think this book covers many sensitive topics and it all comes together in a wonderful way in this book.
All the characters in this book are really unique and special. Their personalities come across really well and together they create a wonderful little group, playing together so well. The atmosphere is unbeatable and full of everything. There are funny moments, sweet ones, emotional ones and also shocking ones.
I actually didn’t want to leave the characters in the end, I feel like there is more in store for them. I wish I could tell you more here, but that would ruin the story for you, just read it yourself!!!!
Claudia makes New York feel so alive and describes all these places in a fantastic way. It just makes you want to go to New York immediately. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. It’s gripping, touching and covers several topics, that make it more than just a chick-lit novel. Claudia is a very talented author, who makes a story incredible with her writing. This book is BRILLIANT!!!!! I definitely have to read more of Claudia’s books.
July 25, 2015
4.5 stars
Holly Johnson has met her dream man. Clever, handsome, articulate and, more importantly, single. A transatlantic pilot from Atlanta, Georgia, he is as real catch and sets her pulse racing everytime she hears his voice or reads his messages on her phone. The only thing is, they can't seem to meet face to face. Welcome to the world of online dating. Where little white lies ping into inboxes all over the world, and for every success story, there are plenty of disasters too.
Holly soon discovers that all is not quite what it seems, and her ideal man is far from the character she fell for. There is only one thing for it: A trip to NY where she can confront him...
Claudia Carroll is one of Ireland's best loved authors and rather than shying away from the dreaded 'chick-lit' label, she embraces it. This is an admirable act, as there seems to be a note of distaste lately for said label. Personally, I have no qualms whatsoever about admitting to reading (and enjoying) these light, fun and relaxing books. I read most genres and sometimes there is nothing nicer than closing the cover of an academic title, a harrowing newspaper article or even just closing the door at the end of a long day, and picking up a book that means you can switch off, unwind and escape the real world for an hour or two. If this sounds appealing, then Claudia is the one for you...
From the opening pages it was obvious to the reader that Holly had fallen for the new trick on the block; the Catfish. A hurtful, dishonest side effect of online dating, these people create completely fabricated online personas and reel in their victims. The image of Holly sitting in the middle of a busy Dublin restaurant, on a Saturday night, waiting for Andy to arrive on their pre-arranged date, was a little bit heartbreaking. Then the vision of her dashing across the city to meet him in The Shelbourne Hotel before closing time was a little bit cringe worthy. But the moment where she realises that she has been duped was the sad part. Her well meaning friend, Joy, along with her Polish security guard boyfriend, have to break the news that the Southern 'pilot' is not who he seems. The reader is then brought across the Atlantic as Holly faces the truth, head on. The descriptions of Manhattan and surrounding areas, are just awe inspiring. The author obviously has a deep love of the city that never sleeps and adds a touch of sparkle to the pages where Holly comes across its well known sites for the first time. It is years since I have travelled to New York and having been there during a snow storm, I could identify with the setting of this novel straight away. A delight to look at and wonderful to experience on foot, not so great for catching a flight out of...
The use of humour is one of Claudia's trademarks, and this novel oozes wit and charm. I loved Holly's innocence, while the sharpness of Joy and Krzysztof added extra entertainment. I just wish there was more from this great couple. All chick-lit has its predictability, and this is no exception. But, as far as escapisim goes, you could do a lot worse than hanging with Holly as she discovers the delights of New York (especially Grand Central Station). This is chick-lit as it's meant to be. Warm, entertaining and with destinations to die for!
Holly Johnson has met her dream man. Clever, handsome, articulate and, more importantly, single. A transatlantic pilot from Atlanta, Georgia, he is as real catch and sets her pulse racing everytime she hears his voice or reads his messages on her phone. The only thing is, they can't seem to meet face to face. Welcome to the world of online dating. Where little white lies ping into inboxes all over the world, and for every success story, there are plenty of disasters too.
Holly soon discovers that all is not quite what it seems, and her ideal man is far from the character she fell for. There is only one thing for it: A trip to NY where she can confront him...
Claudia Carroll is one of Ireland's best loved authors and rather than shying away from the dreaded 'chick-lit' label, she embraces it. This is an admirable act, as there seems to be a note of distaste lately for said label. Personally, I have no qualms whatsoever about admitting to reading (and enjoying) these light, fun and relaxing books. I read most genres and sometimes there is nothing nicer than closing the cover of an academic title, a harrowing newspaper article or even just closing the door at the end of a long day, and picking up a book that means you can switch off, unwind and escape the real world for an hour or two. If this sounds appealing, then Claudia is the one for you...
From the opening pages it was obvious to the reader that Holly had fallen for the new trick on the block; the Catfish. A hurtful, dishonest side effect of online dating, these people create completely fabricated online personas and reel in their victims. The image of Holly sitting in the middle of a busy Dublin restaurant, on a Saturday night, waiting for Andy to arrive on their pre-arranged date, was a little bit heartbreaking. Then the vision of her dashing across the city to meet him in The Shelbourne Hotel before closing time was a little bit cringe worthy. But the moment where she realises that she has been duped was the sad part. Her well meaning friend, Joy, along with her Polish security guard boyfriend, have to break the news that the Southern 'pilot' is not who he seems. The reader is then brought across the Atlantic as Holly faces the truth, head on. The descriptions of Manhattan and surrounding areas, are just awe inspiring. The author obviously has a deep love of the city that never sleeps and adds a touch of sparkle to the pages where Holly comes across its well known sites for the first time. It is years since I have travelled to New York and having been there during a snow storm, I could identify with the setting of this novel straight away. A delight to look at and wonderful to experience on foot, not so great for catching a flight out of...
The use of humour is one of Claudia's trademarks, and this novel oozes wit and charm. I loved Holly's innocence, while the sharpness of Joy and Krzysztof added extra entertainment. I just wish there was more from this great couple. All chick-lit has its predictability, and this is no exception. But, as far as escapisim goes, you could do a lot worse than hanging with Holly as she discovers the delights of New York (especially Grand Central Station). This is chick-lit as it's meant to be. Warm, entertaining and with destinations to die for!
March 30, 2015
I am a huge fan of Claudia Carroll, and I've read all of her books, so I was very excited when I got my hands on this and I was not disappointed. After reading Love Me or Leave Me last year, I didn’t think Claudia could top it, but with this book she has.
Holly Johnson, is five foot three, she's thirty one years old and she works as a researcher for a radio station. She has a great life, but is unlucky in love, so she decides that she'll give online dating a go. Just minutes after putting her profile up on the dating site, she gets a message, from Captain Any McCoy, a airline pilot from Atlanta. But after three failed attempts to meet up and some careful digging by her friends, Holly soon realises that he is in fact too good to be true and that she's dealing with a catfish. Soon Holly is on her way to Manhattan, to meet with the catfish face to face and to show that she is not to be messed with! This is also the perfect excuse for Holly to get out of Ireland for her most hated time of year: Christmas.
From the opening page of this book, it is clear to the reader that Holly has fallen for a catfish, although it doesn't become clear to Holly herself for another few chapters. From the very first page, this story kept my interested and entertained. I instantly feel in love with Holly, she's an extremely likeable character, but she also an heir of mystery about her. It is known from the early pages, that she not only hates Christmas, she detests it and I couldn't wait to find out why. Little clues were gfiven throughout the book, that kept me guessing, but I was glad that it wasn't revealed until toward the end of the book. There was also the shock of finding out who the catfish actually was. I think Claudia, did the suspence in this book beautifully, everytime one secret was revealed, another was hinted at and for this reason I spent a full twenty four hours glued to this book, and I kept reading and reading until I couldn’t read anymore and I needed sleep.
The humour in this book, was brilliantly written and had me laughing from page one! I also shed a tear or two for Holly towards the end of the book. It made me want to hop on a plane and head straight to New York, it was so beautifully described, and even though I've never been, I was able to imagine all of it in my minds eye!
Claudia Carroll keeps getting better and better and this book did not disappoint! Every year I get excited when there's a new book about to hit the shelves, and I know that next year I'll be eagerly awaiting my trip to book shop to pick up the new one all over again! I was lucky enough to get to meet Claudia when the book was realased last week and because of that, this book will always hold a special place in my heart.
A warm and original story from one my favorite authors. This is Claudia at her funniest and best! You will love it!
5 stars.
Holly Johnson, is five foot three, she's thirty one years old and she works as a researcher for a radio station. She has a great life, but is unlucky in love, so she decides that she'll give online dating a go. Just minutes after putting her profile up on the dating site, she gets a message, from Captain Any McCoy, a airline pilot from Atlanta. But after three failed attempts to meet up and some careful digging by her friends, Holly soon realises that he is in fact too good to be true and that she's dealing with a catfish. Soon Holly is on her way to Manhattan, to meet with the catfish face to face and to show that she is not to be messed with! This is also the perfect excuse for Holly to get out of Ireland for her most hated time of year: Christmas.
From the opening page of this book, it is clear to the reader that Holly has fallen for a catfish, although it doesn't become clear to Holly herself for another few chapters. From the very first page, this story kept my interested and entertained. I instantly feel in love with Holly, she's an extremely likeable character, but she also an heir of mystery about her. It is known from the early pages, that she not only hates Christmas, she detests it and I couldn't wait to find out why. Little clues were gfiven throughout the book, that kept me guessing, but I was glad that it wasn't revealed until toward the end of the book. There was also the shock of finding out who the catfish actually was. I think Claudia, did the suspence in this book beautifully, everytime one secret was revealed, another was hinted at and for this reason I spent a full twenty four hours glued to this book, and I kept reading and reading until I couldn’t read anymore and I needed sleep.
The humour in this book, was brilliantly written and had me laughing from page one! I also shed a tear or two for Holly towards the end of the book. It made me want to hop on a plane and head straight to New York, it was so beautifully described, and even though I've never been, I was able to imagine all of it in my minds eye!
Claudia Carroll keeps getting better and better and this book did not disappoint! Every year I get excited when there's a new book about to hit the shelves, and I know that next year I'll be eagerly awaiting my trip to book shop to pick up the new one all over again! I was lucky enough to get to meet Claudia when the book was realased last week and because of that, this book will always hold a special place in my heart.
A warm and original story from one my favorite authors. This is Claudia at her funniest and best! You will love it!
5 stars.
December 25, 2022
I've read better Christmas chick lits! Sorry!
August 16, 2023
Wasn't terrible especially for a christmas book but characters lacked more of a back story to them
March 14, 2022
Weak characters without much of a back story and a very strange premise overall. The book dragged on and was quite predictable but the descriptions of beautiful New York and Dublin at Christmas added some fun to the novel. Overall cute and enjoyable but not my favorite.
October 19, 2015
A NetGalley Review
A gentle and thoughtful romance story of a somewhat broken young woman and her dating disasters.
One of the best points about this book was the discussion of the catfishing. A term I had not heard of before. So in my usual researcher fashion I set out to explore the perils of online dating and just what catfishing was all about.
The Urban Dictionary told me that catfishing was:
The phenomenon of internet predators that fabricate online identities and entire social circles to trick people into emotional/romantic relationships (over a long period of time).
Possible motivations: revenge, loneliness, curiosity, boredom
The term catfishing was inspired by the 2010 documentary "Catfish.
Wikipedia has a slightly different definition:
Catfishing is a type of deceptive activity involving a person creating a sock puppet social networking network for nefarious purposes.
A ‘sock puppet’?! A sock puppet being a false identity.
Now I have heard about people who scam lonely women into giving up cash but hadn’t realised that it went further than that but I can quite see how it could. It is very easy to have multiple identities online – I have several usernames for instance, depending on whether I want the site viewers to link my comments to my own identity. Although I doubt that it fools those really into the internet and if you wanted you could investigate my life online and find out a lot about me and my family. As even though I have cautious about putting my personal life online my children have pages and their details are there and I am sure you could link them easily if you wanted to.
Back to the phenomenon of catfishing though.
A Huffington Post article from last year agrees that we all (?) tend to add some inches (men) to our height and lose some weight (Women) on our profiles but that apart from posting some really flattering photos, possibly from a few years back, most of us are reasonably accurate I our descriptions of ourselves.
The Daily Titan warned people earlier this year to be cautious about online dating. They suggest that Skyping etc would be a good tactic and trawling through people’s social history would be useful (check them up on Facebook for instance?). But in the book, they had many phone calls which could have alerted our heroine but seemed so reassuring and genuine.
However, nearly all the articles are warning about the money scam aspect rather than the emotional fallout from being duped by someone for their ‘fun’. And in this book we see that the emotional fallout can be much greater. People become very cautious about interacting with others and lose their trust.
So is this a good book – yes but very much chick lit and thus a quick read and with a nice uplifting ending but I won’t say what...
A gentle and thoughtful romance story of a somewhat broken young woman and her dating disasters.
One of the best points about this book was the discussion of the catfishing. A term I had not heard of before. So in my usual researcher fashion I set out to explore the perils of online dating and just what catfishing was all about.
The Urban Dictionary told me that catfishing was:
The phenomenon of internet predators that fabricate online identities and entire social circles to trick people into emotional/romantic relationships (over a long period of time).
Possible motivations: revenge, loneliness, curiosity, boredom
The term catfishing was inspired by the 2010 documentary "Catfish.
Wikipedia has a slightly different definition:
Catfishing is a type of deceptive activity involving a person creating a sock puppet social networking network for nefarious purposes.
A ‘sock puppet’?! A sock puppet being a false identity.
Now I have heard about people who scam lonely women into giving up cash but hadn’t realised that it went further than that but I can quite see how it could. It is very easy to have multiple identities online – I have several usernames for instance, depending on whether I want the site viewers to link my comments to my own identity. Although I doubt that it fools those really into the internet and if you wanted you could investigate my life online and find out a lot about me and my family. As even though I have cautious about putting my personal life online my children have pages and their details are there and I am sure you could link them easily if you wanted to.
Back to the phenomenon of catfishing though.
A Huffington Post article from last year agrees that we all (?) tend to add some inches (men) to our height and lose some weight (Women) on our profiles but that apart from posting some really flattering photos, possibly from a few years back, most of us are reasonably accurate I our descriptions of ourselves.
The Daily Titan warned people earlier this year to be cautious about online dating. They suggest that Skyping etc would be a good tactic and trawling through people’s social history would be useful (check them up on Facebook for instance?). But in the book, they had many phone calls which could have alerted our heroine but seemed so reassuring and genuine.
However, nearly all the articles are warning about the money scam aspect rather than the emotional fallout from being duped by someone for their ‘fun’. And in this book we see that the emotional fallout can be much greater. People become very cautious about interacting with others and lose their trust.
So is this a good book – yes but very much chick lit and thus a quick read and with a nice uplifting ending but I won’t say what...
February 5, 2016
I've just finished reading Meet Me In Manhattan by Claudia Carroll and have a smile on my face - I'm a total sucker for a happy ending in a book and this certainly didn't disappoint!
We are introduced to Holly, the main character, whilst she is sat in a restaurant awaiting her date - handsome, charming, family man Andy - a pilot no less whom has flown in to Ireland and therefore created the perfect chance for the pair to meet. Only after an hour or so, Holly has caved in, realising that she has been stood up. Andy is full of apologies and they arrange another - low and behold the same things happens.
It was at this point in the book that I thought something wasn't quite right with Andy... the story is told completely through Holly's eyes and as she told it my suspicions became more so. After Holly's flat mate does a background check on Andy to find that his IP address is in an entirely different state of America to what he had claimed, Holly decides to hop on a flight and catch 'Andy' in the act - Catfish is one of my guilty pleasures to watch on TV so reading it in a story was completely refreshing and relevant to current going ons on the Online Dating World!
When Holly finally meets 'Andy' she is shocked to say the least... Harry, the guy who not only has been arranging to meet Holly but also been emailing and calling endlessly isn't really a guy at all.. more like boy! Yes, Harry is a 16 year old who is just as shock as Holly is.
AS the course of Holly's trip unfolds, we get to know a little about Harry and his life, particularly his older, much older, brother Mike, who takes it upon himself to show Holly a good time in New York whilst she is there... It was lovely to read their relationship blossom but I was also shouting at the book for them to 'just get on with it' as they did drag their heels a little!
Mike has come as the perfect distraction for Holly as Christmas isn't her favourite time of year - throughout the book there is hints as to why this is the case but it's not until nearer the end that all is revealed.
Although at points of the book I found the storyline a little predictable, it was well written and the story kept the pages turning over. Holly was a great character who really wanted nothing more than to just be loved by someone, and I enjoyed the whole Catfish element. The peak of the book where Holly is in NYC is based at Christmas and in to New Year but I think you can read this book at any time as they are only touched on and not celebrated in too much detail keeping Catfish as part of the stories lime light.
We are introduced to Holly, the main character, whilst she is sat in a restaurant awaiting her date - handsome, charming, family man Andy - a pilot no less whom has flown in to Ireland and therefore created the perfect chance for the pair to meet. Only after an hour or so, Holly has caved in, realising that she has been stood up. Andy is full of apologies and they arrange another - low and behold the same things happens.
It was at this point in the book that I thought something wasn't quite right with Andy... the story is told completely through Holly's eyes and as she told it my suspicions became more so. After Holly's flat mate does a background check on Andy to find that his IP address is in an entirely different state of America to what he had claimed, Holly decides to hop on a flight and catch 'Andy' in the act - Catfish is one of my guilty pleasures to watch on TV so reading it in a story was completely refreshing and relevant to current going ons on the Online Dating World!
When Holly finally meets 'Andy' she is shocked to say the least... Harry, the guy who not only has been arranging to meet Holly but also been emailing and calling endlessly isn't really a guy at all.. more like boy! Yes, Harry is a 16 year old who is just as shock as Holly is.
AS the course of Holly's trip unfolds, we get to know a little about Harry and his life, particularly his older, much older, brother Mike, who takes it upon himself to show Holly a good time in New York whilst she is there... It was lovely to read their relationship blossom but I was also shouting at the book for them to 'just get on with it' as they did drag their heels a little!
Mike has come as the perfect distraction for Holly as Christmas isn't her favourite time of year - throughout the book there is hints as to why this is the case but it's not until nearer the end that all is revealed.
Although at points of the book I found the storyline a little predictable, it was well written and the story kept the pages turning over. Holly was a great character who really wanted nothing more than to just be loved by someone, and I enjoyed the whole Catfish element. The peak of the book where Holly is in NYC is based at Christmas and in to New Year but I think you can read this book at any time as they are only touched on and not celebrated in too much detail keeping Catfish as part of the stories lime light.
March 23, 2016
Meet me in Manhattan is easily one of my favorite books I read in 2015. It has everything a great book needs: unique plot, great characters, Irish humor, modern romance with twist and turns.
Meet me in Manhattan isn't your average chick lit story – it’s a rare plot I truly loved. It’s all about Holly Johnson and finding her man of her dreams - online. Holly is in her early thirties, lives in Dublin and is a researcher for an Irish radio station. She is single long enough so she decides to go into online dating. She meets Andy McCoy - a Delta Airline pilot, widower, with a six year old son, living in Atlanta. They have been chatting and calling each other for the past few months. Three times they try to meet each other in person whilst Andy is on a stopover in Dublin but it hasn't worked out because of an emergency. Holly's best friend Joy and her boyfriend Krzysztof are suspicious and check out And’s IP address find out that he is not the one he seems to be. Holly decides to pay Andy an unexpected visit to New York City to finally meet him and soon she finds out she is dealing with a catfish. How will the story end for Holly? Will she find the man of her dreams after all?
Claudia Carroll became one of my favorite authors the more books I read of her. Her writing style is so light and flows so easily. The writing makes you laugh and touches the heart. There are many things I loved about this book. First of all: the cover! I’m a sucker for beautiful designed book covers. Not only that, the story is so easy to read, it just glides along and before you know it you’re half way through the book and utterly in love with the characters. I loved Holly from the start. She is so likeable and easy to love and relate to. I was rooting for her to find her happy-ever-after.
This book with its Christmassy theme may be the best start to kick of the festive season although I think it can be read at any time of the year. It made me think about the fact that while for some people, myself included, Christmas is a time of love, warmth, family, and good cheer, and yet for others, it is the most painful and lonely time of year. All in all Claudia Carroll delivered another fantastic novel worth reading. I can’t wait for her next book!
Meet me in Manhattan isn't your average chick lit story – it’s a rare plot I truly loved. It’s all about Holly Johnson and finding her man of her dreams - online. Holly is in her early thirties, lives in Dublin and is a researcher for an Irish radio station. She is single long enough so she decides to go into online dating. She meets Andy McCoy - a Delta Airline pilot, widower, with a six year old son, living in Atlanta. They have been chatting and calling each other for the past few months. Three times they try to meet each other in person whilst Andy is on a stopover in Dublin but it hasn't worked out because of an emergency. Holly's best friend Joy and her boyfriend Krzysztof are suspicious and check out And’s IP address find out that he is not the one he seems to be. Holly decides to pay Andy an unexpected visit to New York City to finally meet him and soon she finds out she is dealing with a catfish. How will the story end for Holly? Will she find the man of her dreams after all?
Claudia Carroll became one of my favorite authors the more books I read of her. Her writing style is so light and flows so easily. The writing makes you laugh and touches the heart. There are many things I loved about this book. First of all: the cover! I’m a sucker for beautiful designed book covers. Not only that, the story is so easy to read, it just glides along and before you know it you’re half way through the book and utterly in love with the characters. I loved Holly from the start. She is so likeable and easy to love and relate to. I was rooting for her to find her happy-ever-after.
This book with its Christmassy theme may be the best start to kick of the festive season although I think it can be read at any time of the year. It made me think about the fact that while for some people, myself included, Christmas is a time of love, warmth, family, and good cheer, and yet for others, it is the most painful and lonely time of year. All in all Claudia Carroll delivered another fantastic novel worth reading. I can’t wait for her next book!
November 24, 2015
I have a real fondness for Claudia Carroll's writing. She writes stories that cheer, that make you smile and that are so easy to disappear into. I read a lot of different genres, I enjoy many authors. Some of them are serious and tense, some are heavy and issue-led. Claudia Carroll is none of these things, she's a romantic comedy author, and proud of it, and she's also one of the best.
Meet Me in Manhattan bring the age-old girl meets boy story bang up to date. Our heroine Holly has entered the world of online dating, she's jumped in feet first and totally embraced the instant messaging, the 'swipe right', she's on it.
When Holly met Andy online, she thought all of her Christmases and Birthdays had arrived together. He's an airline pilot in America, he's a widow, has a small child and is incredibly attentive. Well as attentive as anyone can be when you are separated by thousands of miles. The day of their first face-
to-face meeting arrives and this is when Claudia Carroll's writing really touches the heart. The scene in the restaurant as Holly sits waiting for Andy to arrive is heartbreaking. Holly's confusion and disappointment, and her determination to think the best of Andy is palpable.
Andy doesn't arrive and it is Holly's best friend Joy who is there to help her through. Joy knows Holly, she knows her vulnerabilities, her history. She's protective of her friend. Holly is determined to travel to America and to find out just what Andy's game is. So off she goes, risking her job, and her heart, to Manhattan.
Manhattan becomes a character it is own right in this book. Claudia Carroll's wonderful descriptions of this magical Christmassy place are amazing. I've never been to New York, but after reading this book, I'd be on the first plane there in an instance if I got the chance.
There are lots and lots of unexpected surprises in this story which kept me happily reading right up until the end. Holly is a character who evokes sympathy from the reader, she's kind and compassionate and she'd make a great best friend.
If you want a book to curl up with on a dreary December afternoon, a book that will keep you entertained and show you the sights and sounds of Manhattan, then this is the one to choose.
Meet Me in Manhattan bring the age-old girl meets boy story bang up to date. Our heroine Holly has entered the world of online dating, she's jumped in feet first and totally embraced the instant messaging, the 'swipe right', she's on it.
When Holly met Andy online, she thought all of her Christmases and Birthdays had arrived together. He's an airline pilot in America, he's a widow, has a small child and is incredibly attentive. Well as attentive as anyone can be when you are separated by thousands of miles. The day of their first face-
to-face meeting arrives and this is when Claudia Carroll's writing really touches the heart. The scene in the restaurant as Holly sits waiting for Andy to arrive is heartbreaking. Holly's confusion and disappointment, and her determination to think the best of Andy is palpable.
Andy doesn't arrive and it is Holly's best friend Joy who is there to help her through. Joy knows Holly, she knows her vulnerabilities, her history. She's protective of her friend. Holly is determined to travel to America and to find out just what Andy's game is. So off she goes, risking her job, and her heart, to Manhattan.
Manhattan becomes a character it is own right in this book. Claudia Carroll's wonderful descriptions of this magical Christmassy place are amazing. I've never been to New York, but after reading this book, I'd be on the first plane there in an instance if I got the chance.
There are lots and lots of unexpected surprises in this story which kept me happily reading right up until the end. Holly is a character who evokes sympathy from the reader, she's kind and compassionate and she'd make a great best friend.
If you want a book to curl up with on a dreary December afternoon, a book that will keep you entertained and show you the sights and sounds of Manhattan, then this is the one to choose.
February 10, 2016
Originally posted on:> http://lauraslittlebookblog.blogspot....
Usually with romance novels, you kind of know the plot already, but with Meet Me in Manhattan this wasn't the exact case, and instead had me very eager to read on and find out what would happen.
Meet Me in Manhattan introduces us to Holly. Holly is an aspiring journalist who has nearly given up on finding love, so she signs up to internet dating, where she starts talking to the very charming Andy McCoy. He is a pilot in America, who just seems too good to be true and after failing to physically meet three times, Holly starts to have her suspicions. She decides to bite the bullet though and surprise Andy in Manhattan, but Holly might just be in for the shock of her life.
With online dating becoming an ever common way to meet people, I thought Claudia's book was right up there with the times and was fascinating when this also explored the other side of online dating which was catfishing. This is where people lie about there identities and pretty much their whole existence when talking to people online.
This was full of brilliant Irish humour and a fantastic main character, who was easy relatable to and easy to become invested in her story.
I loved the build-up to the twist in this story. It is quite unusual for me to be so eager to find out what will happen in a romance story but Claudia really did deliver. I think I was as shocked as Holly when the big reveal happened. This is what has made this romance story stand out so much more from the others have had read and actually felt more like a plausible story, rather than your standard boy meets girl.
Highly entertaining and full of unexpected twists and turns, a compelling and unique read from Claudia.
Usually with romance novels, you kind of know the plot already, but with Meet Me in Manhattan this wasn't the exact case, and instead had me very eager to read on and find out what would happen.
Meet Me in Manhattan introduces us to Holly. Holly is an aspiring journalist who has nearly given up on finding love, so she signs up to internet dating, where she starts talking to the very charming Andy McCoy. He is a pilot in America, who just seems too good to be true and after failing to physically meet three times, Holly starts to have her suspicions. She decides to bite the bullet though and surprise Andy in Manhattan, but Holly might just be in for the shock of her life.
With online dating becoming an ever common way to meet people, I thought Claudia's book was right up there with the times and was fascinating when this also explored the other side of online dating which was catfishing. This is where people lie about there identities and pretty much their whole existence when talking to people online.
This was full of brilliant Irish humour and a fantastic main character, who was easy relatable to and easy to become invested in her story.
I loved the build-up to the twist in this story. It is quite unusual for me to be so eager to find out what will happen in a romance story but Claudia really did deliver. I think I was as shocked as Holly when the big reveal happened. This is what has made this romance story stand out so much more from the others have had read and actually felt more like a plausible story, rather than your standard boy meets girl.
Highly entertaining and full of unexpected twists and turns, a compelling and unique read from Claudia.
November 28, 2015
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love authors like Marian Keyes and Cecelia Ahern and as I'd heard Claudia Carroll was a very similar author I couldn't wait to get my teeth into this.
I can't say I was overly disapointed. Ms Carroll's writing style for me was very different to the two aforementioned authors but that didn't mean it wasn't good.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I think it could have got to the point a little quicker in some parts. On a number of occasions before a 'big reveal' I found myself skimming paragraphs because it just seemed to be taking so long to get to the point. The storyline itself was very strong though.
The story is centred on Holly. Holly is desperate to find love and has resorted to dating sites to find it. When she gets talking to Captain Andy McCoy she can't believe her luck. Everything about him is absolutely perfect. Too perfect maybe.
Centred around the very modern concept of 'catfishing' but with a brilliant twist the author has very strong skills in that she turns it around from disaster to epic romance. The Christmas feel is really great as well and I found it quite symbolic the way Christmas was changed for Holly alongside her dating life.
I enjoyed the Sparks of humour which were injected into the story and the fantastic descriptions of New York and particularly the architecture.
A great novel to get you in the festive mood this season!
I love authors like Marian Keyes and Cecelia Ahern and as I'd heard Claudia Carroll was a very similar author I couldn't wait to get my teeth into this.
I can't say I was overly disapointed. Ms Carroll's writing style for me was very different to the two aforementioned authors but that didn't mean it wasn't good.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I think it could have got to the point a little quicker in some parts. On a number of occasions before a 'big reveal' I found myself skimming paragraphs because it just seemed to be taking so long to get to the point. The storyline itself was very strong though.
The story is centred on Holly. Holly is desperate to find love and has resorted to dating sites to find it. When she gets talking to Captain Andy McCoy she can't believe her luck. Everything about him is absolutely perfect. Too perfect maybe.
Centred around the very modern concept of 'catfishing' but with a brilliant twist the author has very strong skills in that she turns it around from disaster to epic romance. The Christmas feel is really great as well and I found it quite symbolic the way Christmas was changed for Holly alongside her dating life.
I enjoyed the Sparks of humour which were injected into the story and the fantastic descriptions of New York and particularly the architecture.
A great novel to get you in the festive mood this season!
November 9, 2015
This book had me laughing from the start. Holly has a dream to be a big journalist, she also has a dream to meet Mr right. So what if she does it through on-line dating. Andy is a pilot from Atlanta and Holly can't believe her luck when he tells her he's flying into Ireland and that they should meet up. But not every thing is as good as it seems and soon Holly is off to America to find out whats going on!
I swear Claudia has lived this... or someone she knows has... it so spot on and funny, i couldn't stop laughing. Brilliantly written and the description of New York are fantastic. This is the one christmas book i don't mind reading early as i very well may read it again! Simply brilliant.
I swear Claudia has lived this... or someone she knows has... it so spot on and funny, i couldn't stop laughing. Brilliantly written and the description of New York are fantastic. This is the one christmas book i don't mind reading early as i very well may read it again! Simply brilliant.
June 27, 2019
A really enjoyable romance from an author I've never read before, will definitely be trying more of Carroll's books in the future.
January 24, 2020
I enjoyed reading this book. It took me a little while to get into the storyline but since I have been reading a lot less over the last month I wonder if that was me, rather than the book itself.
I liked Holly and her life in Ireland and I loved the time she was spending in NY. I really enjoyed reading about her sightseeing and Christmas with Mike´s family.
Two things I didn´t like too much. For one, I thought it wouldn´t be very likely that a 16-year old can catfish 4 (or more) grown adults, convincingly telling them he´s a pilot, a widower, a dad, etc. I know the explanation is that his voice was very deep and he sounded much older, but there are a lot of things that are different about 16-year olds, compared to 30-something year olds.
I also thought sometimes the suspense was a bit too laboured. I know the author deliberately didn´t tell the reader why exactly Holly hated Christmas so much and what drama was unfolding in NY when she was back in Ireland, but it somehow felt a bit too much, I was annoyed more than I was curious.
However, I really enjoyed the storyline in general, it was something original. I also love that Holly didn´t drop everything in Ireland to move to NY and that the epilogue didn´t show their wedding/baby´s arrival, etc. which happens all too often in this genre. Oh and I loved Joy, we should all have a friend who tells us how it is rather than tiptoe around us!
I liked Holly and her life in Ireland and I loved the time she was spending in NY. I really enjoyed reading about her sightseeing and Christmas with Mike´s family.
Two things I didn´t like too much. For one, I thought it wouldn´t be very likely that a 16-year old can catfish 4 (or more) grown adults, convincingly telling them he´s a pilot, a widower, a dad, etc. I know the explanation is that his voice was very deep and he sounded much older, but there are a lot of things that are different about 16-year olds, compared to 30-something year olds.
I also thought sometimes the suspense was a bit too laboured. I know the author deliberately didn´t tell the reader why exactly Holly hated Christmas so much and what drama was unfolding in NY when she was back in Ireland, but it somehow felt a bit too much, I was annoyed more than I was curious.
However, I really enjoyed the storyline in general, it was something original. I also love that Holly didn´t drop everything in Ireland to move to NY and that the epilogue didn´t show their wedding/baby´s arrival, etc. which happens all too often in this genre. Oh and I loved Joy, we should all have a friend who tells us how it is rather than tiptoe around us!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2024
2.5 Stars
The start of this novel is confusing. Within 20 pages we see that Holly was to meet the American man Andy McCoy (a bit confusing as his name doesn’t sound too American) isn’t that Holly’s first hint to how this online guy could be catfishing her? I’m only writing this part at 60 pages in FYI so I’m not sure what happens yet. But my point is, we find out she’s been stood up within 20 pages. But then straight away without much warning we are taken back to the beginning of how they started messaging. Usually that’s the end of the flashback but in this case it continued for 40 more pages. Why show us being stood up just to ramble on for another 40 pages of how you got there when it didn’t connect properly as the reader it wasn’t fully understandable.
The main character is so annoying and gulliable. She’s supposed to be either late twenties or 30’s so how does she not see all the red flags throughout this novel about this online guy!?
After travelling from Ireland to New York she discovers what it really was. Then she falls for someone else whilst she is there and then loses her job because she had morals which is the part of this main character I respect.
Overall I didn’t feel much of a connection to the characters. I did read it quick enough though as I skimmed a lot of it as it did drag on a lot.
Review: https://clife.blog/2024/02/20/book-re...
The start of this novel is confusing. Within 20 pages we see that Holly was to meet the American man Andy McCoy (a bit confusing as his name doesn’t sound too American) isn’t that Holly’s first hint to how this online guy could be catfishing her? I’m only writing this part at 60 pages in FYI so I’m not sure what happens yet. But my point is, we find out she’s been stood up within 20 pages. But then straight away without much warning we are taken back to the beginning of how they started messaging. Usually that’s the end of the flashback but in this case it continued for 40 more pages. Why show us being stood up just to ramble on for another 40 pages of how you got there when it didn’t connect properly as the reader it wasn’t fully understandable.
The main character is so annoying and gulliable. She’s supposed to be either late twenties or 30’s so how does she not see all the red flags throughout this novel about this online guy!?
After travelling from Ireland to New York she discovers what it really was. Then she falls for someone else whilst she is there and then loses her job because she had morals which is the part of this main character I respect.
Overall I didn’t feel much of a connection to the characters. I did read it quick enough though as I skimmed a lot of it as it did drag on a lot.
Review: https://clife.blog/2024/02/20/book-re...
December 11, 2015
There was a lot of buzz about "Meet Me in Manhattan" going on on Twitter, and of course I was totally curious about the book, but I'd read it even without Twitter - well, it is Claudia Carroll's novel, right? So there was no other option as to read it as soon as it landed on my doorstep - and let me tell you, it has not only the most beautiful, sparkly cover but it's also my favourite book by Claudia Carroll at the moment - it is a clever rom - com with just the right amount of this brilliant Irish humour and characters to die for, full of warmth and feel - good factor.
Introducing Holly. Single, working hard all days as a researcher for a radio shows, even though she's paid almost nothing, and trying online dating. Relatively quickly she meets a perfect man who - maybe, maybe - could be The One. He's not only one of the sexiest jobs in the world - he's a pilot, this captain Andy McCoy - but he's affectionate, romantic and has the nicest voice in the world, so it's not a wonder that very quickly Holly feels incredible bond between them. Of course they want to meet, there is only one obstacle - Holly lives in Dublin, and her captain in Atlanta. United States... But! Isn't it destiny sending him with his planes to the Emerald Isle every once in a while? No? How come Holly finds herself in New York, instead of meeting Andy in Dublin? Is it possible to meet a man via online dating or is this not?
There is so much to the plot that it is impossible to tell you more without letting out some of the details - and I so don't want to do it! This story is full of twists and turns that mostly took me totally by surprise, and I loved this unpredictability. It is also, with all those surprises, a read with amazing speed, the things and events and situations are just flowing in front of your eyes taking you with them on a brilliant, funny journey.
The characters were brilliant and they felt like a breath of fresh air, really. I warmed to Holly from the opening pages and it stayed like this throughout the whole book. She impressed me with her attitude more than once, as she really knew what's important in life. She was not a very straightforward character, and I liked it also about her, and it was great to get to know her more and more during the reading. Sure, she was also naive and she was even willing to jeopardise her own career for a guy that she in fact didn't know, but well, all of us have such moments in life, I think. No risk, no fun, right? Sure, as soon as Mike entered the scenes, you could be dead sure how the book is going to end, but did it bother me? In this case, not at all. On the contrary, it had me hooked and I wanted to see how it is going to develop, and how the characters are going to change their lives.
Yes, there were moments that the book was dragging on too much, especially when there was a secret to be revealed, just like those of Harry's - I'd really do without all those things that came in between and those passages felt a little too forced and too pushed for my liking, there was a lot of hinting and hinting and it was a little frustrating, but it's the only thing that bothered me a little in this novel. The plot has also turned totally different to what I was thinking is awaiting me in this book - but I'm not saying that it's bad! I was expecting thousands of blind dates with online - met men, and you know how much I love such stories, but even though it was not the case here, the way the plot went has totally fulfilled my expectations and I enjoyed every single page of this book. Before it turned out that the story is going to take a different angle to this what I thought, I had a teeny, tiny fear that the author is going to overdo a little with Holly and Andy missing their meetings - I thought once is OK, twice is also all right, but please no more! But no worries, folks, no worries, Claudia Carroll knows what she's doing.
And let me tell you this - there are many books set in New York. Many. But "Meet Me in Manhattan" had showed this city in a totally new and fresh light. If I were to visit Big Apple, I'd take Ms Carroll's book with me and I wouldn't need any more guidebooks - she writes about magical places that I have never read about before and I truly loved it. It felt so refreshing, and I had a feeling I'm discovering this city anew. Author's love and detailed knowledge to and of this city just shines through the pages and even when there were moments that the story was more like a guidebook, I still enjoyed the descriptions and all the secret places immensely.
But there was so much more to this book than only a humorous light story of online dating and teaching bad guys a lesson or two. Very quickly we've learnt that Holly dreads Christmas, that she hates Christmas in fact, but we must have waited longer to see, why. Of course, through the dialogues and Holly's memories we could start to guess that - and what - something very bad happened, but when she finally confessed, it was heart - breaking. And I could understand her aversion to Christmas. But even more I adored the fact that Holly was able to see what she was missing when "not liking" Christmas, and that she also appreciated the family Christmas that she was a part of. The author also undertakes a very difficult topic, namely she asks if there are double standards in judging men and women doing the same thing: cheating on internet. Because both of them, Holly and Harry, told lies, right? And even though Ms Carroll didn't judge personally, I was asking myself if it's really like this, that women are being quickly forgotten and allowed to cheat, and men aren't.
This is a kind of a story that lets you to unwind after a long, tiring day, to switch off and relax. It is a warm book, full of charm and a feel - good factor, very easy to disappear into. There are characters to die for in this novel, beautiful settings and the author has a magical way with the words, making it impossible for you to put this book down. I haven't expected that I'm going to love this book so much - but I did, and I can only recommend it to those of you who hasn't read it yet!
Copy provided by publisher in exchange for a review.
November 21, 2020
Meet Me In Manhattan
By Claudia Carroll 💛
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Another beautiful immersive read to add to my read pile. Claudia delve into troubles facing today’s modern dating platforms in the way of catfishing. The book was both serious and hilarious from the get go and a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Not only are you captivated in Holly’s love life and whirlwind online romances but we also experience her career and how her dreams begin to come true before her world stops. Once Holly makes a decision she heads to Manhattan to find out once and for all who this dream man of hers is only to have all of her ideas blown out of the water.
All is not lost as Holly has the most phenomenal time in Manhattan and discovers people she know will be a huge part of her life going forward. To these people she gives her word to protect them even at drastic costs, but in the long run I think she ends up well on top because of this decision.
The storyline is beautifully written and has made me want to head to NYC once all of this has blown over! Turns out I am becoming quite the romance buff and can recommend this to anyone who wants a nice easy read which is even on the verge of Christmassy. So what’s not to love!🌲
By Claudia Carroll 💛
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Another beautiful immersive read to add to my read pile. Claudia delve into troubles facing today’s modern dating platforms in the way of catfishing. The book was both serious and hilarious from the get go and a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Not only are you captivated in Holly’s love life and whirlwind online romances but we also experience her career and how her dreams begin to come true before her world stops. Once Holly makes a decision she heads to Manhattan to find out once and for all who this dream man of hers is only to have all of her ideas blown out of the water.
All is not lost as Holly has the most phenomenal time in Manhattan and discovers people she know will be a huge part of her life going forward. To these people she gives her word to protect them even at drastic costs, but in the long run I think she ends up well on top because of this decision.
The storyline is beautifully written and has made me want to head to NYC once all of this has blown over! Turns out I am becoming quite the romance buff and can recommend this to anyone who wants a nice easy read which is even on the verge of Christmassy. So what’s not to love!🌲
July 3, 2018
The story revolves around Holly, an aspiring journalist who is looking for love. In desperation she joins an online dating agency and gets talking to American Andy McCoy who sounds just perfect! He’s an airline pilot and is flying into Ireland soon and wants to meet her. Is Andy as perfect as he sounds though?
This is a lovely heartwarming romance! It’s not the typical chick-lit I was expecting but there’s still plenty of love and romance to go round. The author’s style of writing gets you hooked on the first page and wraps you in this big blanket of loveliness until you get to the last page! The characters were all very likeable and the setting was absolutely perfect. I love reading books about New York at Christmas time as it always gives me that feel good factor. Would definitely recommend this book
This is a lovely heartwarming romance! It’s not the typical chick-lit I was expecting but there’s still plenty of love and romance to go round. The author’s style of writing gets you hooked on the first page and wraps you in this big blanket of loveliness until you get to the last page! The characters were all very likeable and the setting was absolutely perfect. I love reading books about New York at Christmas time as it always gives me that feel good factor. Would definitely recommend this book
May 19, 2018
His book was not what I was expecting, so that may be why I’m giving it 3 stars. I was expecting romantic comedy, but it was rarely romantic and definitely not funny. This book should seriously be considered straight-up chick lit. We don’t meet Mike until about 40% into the book (and that was all spent outlining just how ridiculously naive the heroine is about work and online dating). I was cringing the whole time knowing what was coming.
The 30% spent introducing us to Mike, Harry and Dorothy was really great and so enjoyable to read.
But the last 30% was all suspenseful drama and almost zero interaction between Mike and Holly, and the epilogue seriously fell flat. A shame, really, since this was well-written and had so much potential.
The 30% spent introducing us to Mike, Harry and Dorothy was really great and so enjoyable to read.
But the last 30% was all suspenseful drama and almost zero interaction between Mike and Holly, and the epilogue seriously fell flat. A shame, really, since this was well-written and had so much potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2020
Review of meet in Manhattan by Claudia Carroll. After reading not without my daughter by betty mehmoody, I was bit sad n was unable to pick any book to read. I needed something to refresh myself. And I got this book. Language is simple, it’s a light n refreshing work of Claudia . Holly Johnson met Andy McCoy on online dating site. She fell in love with him. He soon became her life. Andy McCoy is a pilot in delta airlines. But things became completely different when holly came to know that there is no such guy as Andy McCoy. The one whom she was dating is a 16 year old school student. What will she do now? What was the reason behind such lie, will she be able to find out? How her life will change ?
September 18, 2020
Dubliner Holly discovers the pitfalls of internet dating as she converses online with Andy, an American pilot. Meet Me In Manhatten is set over Xmas and it’s quite clear that Holly certainly detests this time of year, although it takes a while until you find out exactly why. Things don’t go to plan as she visits New York to confront Andy. She tries to turn the disaster into her advantage to progress her career as an investigative journalist. During her quest, we visit all the usual tourist spots as well as a few new ones.
The story takes a serious downward turn both stateside and in Dublin. The negative world of online media is shown at it’s worse. I will leave it to you to read to find out how it all ends, no spoilers here.
The story takes a serious downward turn both stateside and in Dublin. The negative world of online media is shown at it’s worse. I will leave it to you to read to find out how it all ends, no spoilers here.
September 30, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Holly is having a hard time, loving having found what seems to be her perfect date on the internet but he keeps standing her up. Eventually she comes to believe that all is not as it seems. She travels to New York at Christmas intent on discovering the truth about him and writing a story for her job as a reporter. Things do not turn out as she expects....
The story contains wonderful descriptions of New York at Christmastime. Images of snow, good food and excitement combine with romance, warmth and family life.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and the characters were easy to engage with. A cosy, Christmassy read.
The story contains wonderful descriptions of New York at Christmastime. Images of snow, good food and excitement combine with romance, warmth and family life.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and the characters were easy to engage with. A cosy, Christmassy read.
December 9, 2019
5/5
It's emotional, funny and lovely. Really a good read and no kidding, I read this in roughly saying a day. Holly Johnson was inspirational I think. I mean who sacrifices their job even though she was never at fault. Harry was definitely no sleazy person but needed a lesson which he learnt from the 'Witches of Macbeth'. Last but definitely not the least, Mike was a considerate and caring person plus humorous to an extent so that's all.
Definitely read if you happen to see this book somewhere!
It's emotional, funny and lovely. Really a good read and no kidding, I read this in roughly saying a day. Holly Johnson was inspirational I think. I mean who sacrifices their job even though she was never at fault. Harry was definitely no sleazy person but needed a lesson which he learnt from the 'Witches of Macbeth'. Last but definitely not the least, Mike was a considerate and caring person plus humorous to an extent so that's all.
Definitely read if you happen to see this book somewhere!
July 6, 2022
Holly has met the One. Only she has not met him yet. Delta pilot Andy seems to be the perfect guy for her, a good father, a loyal friend and someone who understands her well. Though Andy and she has tried to meet each other, fate seems to be keeping them away. Meanwhile, Holly's career as a researcher on network television is getting going. But as she begins to doubt if Andy is the one for her, and tries to find the identity of this online face, she walks into a nightmare. Does every crisis have a silver lining?
June 30, 2017
After struggling through a book I didn't much enjoy reading I needed an easy simple read. For the most part Meet Me In Manhattan was just what I was looking for. I will say there were times I was frustrated with this book, dialogue was repetitive, a bit too uniform, and the characters struggles seemed contrived. Overall, I believe in got what I was expecting out of it and now I'm ready to crack on with some more serious reading.
August 5, 2020
Holly is falling for a man she's only spoken to through email or telephone, they arrange several dates that have them missing each other every time. But, is everything as it seems or is Holly being catfished, that's only one way to find out, so off to NYC she goes. I won't spoil the bits in the middle, but will say it does get its predictable happy ending. This was my 2nd christmassy book of the summer & I give this a 4 🌟 rating.
December 21, 2019
This was a great Irish chick lit read. I came across the book by accident and by happy coincidence I read it over the Christmas period. Unlike most books in this genre, the characters are fairly realistic, the relationship scenario (online dating) is contemporary and the life lessons are thought provoking. I would love to read another book by the same author.
January 12, 2023
This is the first book I haven’t even finished reading. I had real trouble reading it because I seriously could find anything to make me want to even open it.
As a person who really enjoys reading books this was a disaster for me. It’s not it is so bad but everything is really pretty predictable. I would consider it a teenage book more.
As a person who really enjoys reading books this was a disaster for me. It’s not it is so bad but everything is really pretty predictable. I would consider it a teenage book more.
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