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How Do You Know?
What if you were approaching the end of your thirties and all of the life milestones you took for granted in your youth suddenly seemed out of reach? On the eve of her thirty-ninth birthday, Maggie Piper doesn't look, act, or feel much different than she did at twenty-nine, but with her fortieth birthday speeding toward her like a freight train, she wonders if she should. The fear of a slowing metabolism, wrinkling of her skin, and the ticking of her biological clock leaves Maggie torn between a desire to settle down like most of her similarly aged peers and concern that all is not perfect in her existing relationship. When a spontaneous request for a temporary "break" from her live-in boyfriend results in a "break-up," Maggie finds herself single once again and only twelve months from the big 4-0. In the profound yet bumpy year that follows, Maggie will learn, sometimes painfully, that life doesn't always happen on a schedule, there are no deadlines in love, and age really is...
Meredith Schorr, best-selling author of light women's fiction, digs deep in her newest novel and raises the age old issue of the 'proverbial clock' that haunts many women, in a way that is refreshing and sassy no matter your age or relationship status.
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First published December 2, 2014
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About the author
Meredith Schorr
15 books958 followersA born and bred New Yorker and lifelong daydreamer, Meredith Schorr fueled her passion for writing everything from restaurant reviews, original birthday cards, and even work-related emails into a career penning romantic comedies. When she’s not writing books filled with grand gestures and hard-earned happily-ever-afters or working as a trademark paralegal, she’s most often reading, running, or watching TV…for research, of course.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 4, 2015
http://www.chicklitcentral.com/2015/0...
Also has a review of Twin Piques.
Also has a review of Twin Piques.
June 17, 2015
How Do You Know by Meredith Schoor is a 2014 Booktrope publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Well, I'm not sure where to even start with this book. I couldn't help but notice when I added the book to my TBR list on Goodreads, it was very well received with over fifty reviews, nearly all of them five stars. I thought the book sounded like an up to date “Sex in the City” and would have friendships, romance, and humor all mixed together, with a chick -lit style, plus it sounded like a fun kind of book. Well, some of those elements are there, but sadly, the book just didn't work for me.
Maggie has embarked on her last year before turning the big Four-O. This impending milestone has her fretting about the future, not so much professionally, but in the romance department. Her near perfect, and slightly younger, live in boyfriend, Doug, seems like a real catch, so why the doubts? Is he or isn't he “the one”? When Maggie voices her inner thoughts out loud to Doug he feels it's best they part ways, and so Maggie embarks on a year of self discovery, looking for answers to her burning questions about love and life.
Well, If Maggie had been in a snit over her impending thirtieth birthday, I would have been fine with the book. But, forty? Good Lord, people! Really? Forty? I wouldn't mind if forty was the new thirty in terms of health and life expectancy, but not in maturity levels. Maggie's character fit perfectly in with some twenty somethings I know and few thirty somethings too, but no one, and repeat, no one I know approaching their forties is this silly, immature, or this incredibly self absorbed. Maggie gave little or no thought to the consequences of her actions, nor does she care about those she stomps on or over, or who she hurts in the process. She doesn't figure in any kind of accountability for her actions, thinking it's perfectly alright to string people along while you do your self discovery thing. When I say self discovery, I really do mean SELF- It's all about her!
I didn't like Maggie jerking Doug around, not even mourning the break up, immediately sleeping with a man who is separated, but not divorced, which is still adultery, and carrying on like a horny teenager. Yes, the character goes through a year of ups and downs and in the end finally gets a grip on herself and thinks she has figured out all of life's burning questions after putting everyone through her self absorption for a year. Again, this is something I could see a younger person doing and just because she never married or started a family, is no excuse to behave in this manner. Maggie should have grown up emotionally a long, long, long time ago. In fact, I kept having to remind myself this woman was nearly forty years old! That still just doesn't want to compute. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that once you get to a certain age you can't have fun or live life to it's fullest, or kick up your heels once in awhile, or that she should have stayed in a relationship she felt uncertain of or just settled for comfort and stability. But, realistically, we all have doubts, all feel an attraction to someone other than our significant other on occasion, all wonder "what if" from time to time, all wish we could escape the ordinary routines of life, but do you just throw away all that is good and right, over a few niggling doubts? Selfish, immature people do, but those who use their common sense and have a modicum of maturity will use reason and logic to dispel those moments of doubts, traits Maggie didn't appear to have.
I wanted to like the book, tried to buy into what the author was selling, but I just couldn't warm up to Maggie, couldn't relate to her in any way, didn't really care for her friends or choice of lovers, and didn't find anything funny, charming or emotional in any of characters, except poor Doug, who deserved so much better than he got.
So, I guess maybe I'm a little out of touch or old fashioned, or I missed out on some grand epiphany everyone else caught onto, that I missed out on somehow. It wasn't my cuppa, but it could be just your kind of book- that's what makes the world go round.
2 stars
Well, I'm not sure where to even start with this book. I couldn't help but notice when I added the book to my TBR list on Goodreads, it was very well received with over fifty reviews, nearly all of them five stars. I thought the book sounded like an up to date “Sex in the City” and would have friendships, romance, and humor all mixed together, with a chick -lit style, plus it sounded like a fun kind of book. Well, some of those elements are there, but sadly, the book just didn't work for me.
Maggie has embarked on her last year before turning the big Four-O. This impending milestone has her fretting about the future, not so much professionally, but in the romance department. Her near perfect, and slightly younger, live in boyfriend, Doug, seems like a real catch, so why the doubts? Is he or isn't he “the one”? When Maggie voices her inner thoughts out loud to Doug he feels it's best they part ways, and so Maggie embarks on a year of self discovery, looking for answers to her burning questions about love and life.
Well, If Maggie had been in a snit over her impending thirtieth birthday, I would have been fine with the book. But, forty? Good Lord, people! Really? Forty? I wouldn't mind if forty was the new thirty in terms of health and life expectancy, but not in maturity levels. Maggie's character fit perfectly in with some twenty somethings I know and few thirty somethings too, but no one, and repeat, no one I know approaching their forties is this silly, immature, or this incredibly self absorbed. Maggie gave little or no thought to the consequences of her actions, nor does she care about those she stomps on or over, or who she hurts in the process. She doesn't figure in any kind of accountability for her actions, thinking it's perfectly alright to string people along while you do your self discovery thing. When I say self discovery, I really do mean SELF- It's all about her!
I didn't like Maggie jerking Doug around, not even mourning the break up, immediately sleeping with a man who is separated, but not divorced, which is still adultery, and carrying on like a horny teenager. Yes, the character goes through a year of ups and downs and in the end finally gets a grip on herself and thinks she has figured out all of life's burning questions after putting everyone through her self absorption for a year. Again, this is something I could see a younger person doing and just because she never married or started a family, is no excuse to behave in this manner. Maggie should have grown up emotionally a long, long, long time ago. In fact, I kept having to remind myself this woman was nearly forty years old! That still just doesn't want to compute. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that once you get to a certain age you can't have fun or live life to it's fullest, or kick up your heels once in awhile, or that she should have stayed in a relationship she felt uncertain of or just settled for comfort and stability. But, realistically, we all have doubts, all feel an attraction to someone other than our significant other on occasion, all wonder "what if" from time to time, all wish we could escape the ordinary routines of life, but do you just throw away all that is good and right, over a few niggling doubts? Selfish, immature people do, but those who use their common sense and have a modicum of maturity will use reason and logic to dispel those moments of doubts, traits Maggie didn't appear to have.
I wanted to like the book, tried to buy into what the author was selling, but I just couldn't warm up to Maggie, couldn't relate to her in any way, didn't really care for her friends or choice of lovers, and didn't find anything funny, charming or emotional in any of characters, except poor Doug, who deserved so much better than he got.
So, I guess maybe I'm a little out of touch or old fashioned, or I missed out on some grand epiphany everyone else caught onto, that I missed out on somehow. It wasn't my cuppa, but it could be just your kind of book- that's what makes the world go round.
2 stars
December 2, 2014
I laughed out loud with the opening line: Thank God I waxed.
And I loved that the central storyline started immediately. We see Maggie, the main character, celebrating her birthday with friends and boyfriend, Doug, all the while fielding questions, comments, and concerns from those around her about her age, the milestone it represents, and the fact that Maggie's not married yet and wants to be. Maggie is clearly unsettled by the birthday and is at a crossroads in her life. Loved that it opened and got rockin’ and rollin’ right away. And then WHAM! Maggie starts a discussion with Doug that doesn’t exactly end the way she thought it would. Now we’re fully on a ride that takes us through her 39th year in chapters organized by which month it is. (Novel begins in July with her 39th birthday and ends 13 months later in August, a month after she turns 40.)
Interesting to note that when Maggie’s life turns upside down, there are still people in her life she can’t bare to disappoint. One person, in particular, learns of a development in Maggie’s life months after it happened. It struck me as a very authentic development in the story that despite Maggie’s age (she’s certainly an adult) she still has a childlike eagerness to please certain people in her life. It just goes to show that no matter how old we get, some aspects of certain relationships remain ageless.
I was touched by the support network Maggie had while going through this difficult year in her life and enjoyed the references to classic movies and chick flicks. There was one line I thought was especially poignant for this book. I won’t tell you who said it or why, but here it is:
“You’re a special person, Magpie. I’ve no doubt you’ll meet someone who makes you one hundred percent happy.”
But will she? I dunno… you’ll have to read HOW DO YOU KNOW? to find out.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Read more at: www.julievalerie.com
And I loved that the central storyline started immediately. We see Maggie, the main character, celebrating her birthday with friends and boyfriend, Doug, all the while fielding questions, comments, and concerns from those around her about her age, the milestone it represents, and the fact that Maggie's not married yet and wants to be. Maggie is clearly unsettled by the birthday and is at a crossroads in her life. Loved that it opened and got rockin’ and rollin’ right away. And then WHAM! Maggie starts a discussion with Doug that doesn’t exactly end the way she thought it would. Now we’re fully on a ride that takes us through her 39th year in chapters organized by which month it is. (Novel begins in July with her 39th birthday and ends 13 months later in August, a month after she turns 40.)
Interesting to note that when Maggie’s life turns upside down, there are still people in her life she can’t bare to disappoint. One person, in particular, learns of a development in Maggie’s life months after it happened. It struck me as a very authentic development in the story that despite Maggie’s age (she’s certainly an adult) she still has a childlike eagerness to please certain people in her life. It just goes to show that no matter how old we get, some aspects of certain relationships remain ageless.
I was touched by the support network Maggie had while going through this difficult year in her life and enjoyed the references to classic movies and chick flicks. There was one line I thought was especially poignant for this book. I won’t tell you who said it or why, but here it is:
“You’re a special person, Magpie. I’ve no doubt you’ll meet someone who makes you one hundred percent happy.”
But will she? I dunno… you’ll have to read HOW DO YOU KNOW? to find out.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Read more at: www.julievalerie.com
February 28, 2015
I'd first like to thank the author, Meredith Schorr, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was beyond excited when Schorr reached out to me about reading How Do You Know? I read and loved Blogger Girl, and if this book was even slightly as funny, I knew I would love it.
How Do You Know? drew me in from the first line – “Thank God I waxed” – and kept me hooked through the end. There was never a dull moment with Maggie, our heroine who is quickly approaching over-the-hill status. She’s quirky, strong, brave, clumsy, fun and flawed – she’s human. She doesn’t fully know what she wants out of life and whether she’s living life to the fullest or simply going through the motions.
Maggie has a great support system – her three best friends, cousin, mom and spitfire aunt – and I really admired her for having such close relationships. In fact, she and her three best friends reminded me of the tight-knit friendship from Sex and the City. In the beginning, though, I struggled a little to differentiate between the friends. I felt like I should stop to take notes. But as the story progressed, I was able to really understand each of her friends, the personalities and back stories each of them had.
How Do You Know? was completely unpredictable. I’ve said this in a review before, but sometimes I read a book’s blurb and I already know exactly who the heroine is going to end up with. Not that it’s a bad thing to be able to predict that – it’s the journey, after all, not the destination. But Schorr really kept me guessing what was going to happen next from the moment I picked up the book to the moment it was over. Every time I thought I knew what was coming next, I was wrong.
I really enjoyed reading about Maggie as she embarked on her journey of self-discovery, and I highly recommend How Do You Know? I am also really excited to discover that this book is going to be part of a series, and I can’t wait to read the next books.
I was beyond excited when Schorr reached out to me about reading How Do You Know? I read and loved Blogger Girl, and if this book was even slightly as funny, I knew I would love it.
How Do You Know? drew me in from the first line – “Thank God I waxed” – and kept me hooked through the end. There was never a dull moment with Maggie, our heroine who is quickly approaching over-the-hill status. She’s quirky, strong, brave, clumsy, fun and flawed – she’s human. She doesn’t fully know what she wants out of life and whether she’s living life to the fullest or simply going through the motions.
Maggie has a great support system – her three best friends, cousin, mom and spitfire aunt – and I really admired her for having such close relationships. In fact, she and her three best friends reminded me of the tight-knit friendship from Sex and the City. In the beginning, though, I struggled a little to differentiate between the friends. I felt like I should stop to take notes. But as the story progressed, I was able to really understand each of her friends, the personalities and back stories each of them had.
How Do You Know? was completely unpredictable. I’ve said this in a review before, but sometimes I read a book’s blurb and I already know exactly who the heroine is going to end up with. Not that it’s a bad thing to be able to predict that – it’s the journey, after all, not the destination. But Schorr really kept me guessing what was going to happen next from the moment I picked up the book to the moment it was over. Every time I thought I knew what was coming next, I was wrong.
I really enjoyed reading about Maggie as she embarked on her journey of self-discovery, and I highly recommend How Do You Know? I am also really excited to discover that this book is going to be part of a series, and I can’t wait to read the next books.
November 9, 2014
Having read Blogger Girl last year I have been anxiously awaiting Meredith's next novel since, How Do You Know? Was worth the wait!
Maggie who is on the edge of turning the big 4-0 begins to have doubts about her relationship. Does she love Doug? The man she has lived with for three years? Or is she just comfortable with him?
With a wonderful cast of characters ( one of my favorites being Aunt Helen, she only makes brief appearences, but I think all of us have an Aunt Helen in our lives),How Do You Know? Takes us on Maggie's journey of self discovery and trying to find out, what exactly she wants out of a relationshsip.
I was excited to find out this is going to be a series, cant wait to find out what is in store for these characters.. I know whatever it is, it will make for fantastic reading.
5*****
Maggie who is on the edge of turning the big 4-0 begins to have doubts about her relationship. Does she love Doug? The man she has lived with for three years? Or is she just comfortable with him?
With a wonderful cast of characters ( one of my favorites being Aunt Helen, she only makes brief appearences, but I think all of us have an Aunt Helen in our lives),How Do You Know? Takes us on Maggie's journey of self discovery and trying to find out, what exactly she wants out of a relationshsip.
I was excited to find out this is going to be a series, cant wait to find out what is in store for these characters.. I know whatever it is, it will make for fantastic reading.
5*****
January 11, 2015
Meredith Schorr did it again! She created a hard to put down book that I completely loved. I discovered her books this summer and eagerly awaited How Do You Know's release. It surpassed my expectations and just may be my favorite book of hers so far. I loved the cast of characters, especially Maggie, who I found totally relatable. Maggie's mom and Aunt were trips! They reminded me a lot of my own mom. And everyone should have friends like Maggie's! I laughed out loud often, and I got a little teary too. I found this book very hard to put down, and was sad when I reached the last page. I could have kept reading. I am so excited that this is part of a series as I look forward to catching up with Maggie and everyone again...
December 9, 2015
Hello midlife crisis for women! What wasn't there to like about this book? I related to Maggie so much. This book was written in such a fashion that you would believe it to be true or based on actual life events. Maggie doesn't want to settle for just any relationship so what better way than to take a break from your current (and great) relationship to find out but will your 'love' wait for you to find out if it is a happily ever after? Break ups, work flings, and speed dating are all involved! You will need to read to find out 'How Do You Know' if Maggie finds her Happily Ever After!
February 25, 2015
Meredith Schorr writes with honesty. I love that about her as an author. She's not afraid to go there in delving into her characters' deepest feelings. HOW DO YOU KNOW has it all. Single-woman searching for Mr. Right. Comic touches you KNOW had to come from real life. An honest exploration of single life in Manhattan, it's ups and downs. Sex in the City with heart and soul. Highly entertaining.
January 25, 2016
Maggie Piper just celebrated her 39th birthday with her bestfriends and the man of her life, Doug. She's nearing the big 4.0 but she felt something was missing in her life. She wasn't still married, she didn't have kids. Whenever her boyfriend talked to her about settling down, she always declined. It was as if something else was holding her back. In a sudden twist of fate, she found herself loveless the next day, when Doug broke up with her. Ouch!
Phil, a partner in a firm Maggie was working at, started dating her after he learned that she was back on the singles scene. Despite having doubts about his marital status (Phil being separated but not yet divorced), Maggie relented and was thrilled being pursued. They seemed to be getting along, they've got great moments together and the sex was a bliss. They couldn't get their off each other, even in the office. Everything was going great.
Until Maggie saw Doug again. Until Phil reconnected with his estranged wife and decided to work on their marriage instead of proceeding with divorce. Another Ouch!
I loved how the author gave Maggie a laudable personality, a fun character, spunk and sense. She also got a great support group, her friends, co-workers and family. I liked her mom and cousin Cheryl, but I loved aunt Helen more. She's quite feisty and funny, and she's got a lot to say! They were supportive of her in every way despite of the men who surrounded her. How Do You Know surely provided me with a lot of possible scenarios I might be facing when I get to reach forty soon.
Meredith Schorr was able to write a really compelling and quirky story of seeking love and happiness, especially for women nearing the milestone age - 40. Maggie sure had me laughing out loud, all thanks to Meredith's convincing characters. I can see myself reading another one of her stories really soon. This has been truly a great afternoon read!
Phil, a partner in a firm Maggie was working at, started dating her after he learned that she was back on the singles scene. Despite having doubts about his marital status (Phil being separated but not yet divorced), Maggie relented and was thrilled being pursued. They seemed to be getting along, they've got great moments together and the sex was a bliss. They couldn't get their off each other, even in the office. Everything was going great.
Until Maggie saw Doug again. Until Phil reconnected with his estranged wife and decided to work on their marriage instead of proceeding with divorce. Another Ouch!
I loved how the author gave Maggie a laudable personality, a fun character, spunk and sense. She also got a great support group, her friends, co-workers and family. I liked her mom and cousin Cheryl, but I loved aunt Helen more. She's quite feisty and funny, and she's got a lot to say! They were supportive of her in every way despite of the men who surrounded her. How Do You Know surely provided me with a lot of possible scenarios I might be facing when I get to reach forty soon.
Meredith Schorr was able to write a really compelling and quirky story of seeking love and happiness, especially for women nearing the milestone age - 40. Maggie sure had me laughing out loud, all thanks to Meredith's convincing characters. I can see myself reading another one of her stories really soon. This has been truly a great afternoon read!
December 8, 2014
If I could give this book 10 stars I would! I couldn't put it down! So addicting!
What if you were approaching the end of your thirties and all of the life milestones you took for granted in your youth suddenly seemed out of reach?
Maggie Piper is not too far from 40 and she is dreading every last minute! She feels great, she looks amazing and doesn't think her life resembles a day over 29 but that is not the reality of the situation.
She has an amazing relationship with a man named Doug for three years and one day she thinks that maybe it's not so great anymore? Where is the drama? Where is the disagreements? Everything really is somewhat perfect and what every girl wishes for but Maggie thinks that means her relationship has gone stale. So she discusses this with Doug and says she would like a break, a little time...that didn't go over well and now she is single...
Maggie is learning that age is just a number and that she really has put too much emphasis on that and she's is lonely and sad because of that.
So many bumps and twists and turns along Maggie's journey, you will never want to put it down!
What if you were approaching the end of your thirties and all of the life milestones you took for granted in your youth suddenly seemed out of reach?
Maggie Piper is not too far from 40 and she is dreading every last minute! She feels great, she looks amazing and doesn't think her life resembles a day over 29 but that is not the reality of the situation.
She has an amazing relationship with a man named Doug for three years and one day she thinks that maybe it's not so great anymore? Where is the drama? Where is the disagreements? Everything really is somewhat perfect and what every girl wishes for but Maggie thinks that means her relationship has gone stale. So she discusses this with Doug and says she would like a break, a little time...that didn't go over well and now she is single...
Maggie is learning that age is just a number and that she really has put too much emphasis on that and she's is lonely and sad because of that.
So many bumps and twists and turns along Maggie's journey, you will never want to put it down!
December 21, 2014
I have read all of Meredith Schorr's fabulous books and her latest installment does not disappoint! Her writing is humorous and engaging and her stories will keep you turning those pages until you reach the end. How Do You Know is the bittersweet and extremely relatable story of Maggie Piper, a woman fast approaching forty with a nagging uncertainty about the man in her life. Convinced that the passion she feels is lacking could be found with another man, she asks for the dreaded "break" only to be told she is being broken up with. What follows is a journey of confusion, heartbreak and ultimately triumph. I must warn you - with her witty dialogue, absorbing story lines and hilarious cast of characters, Ms. Schorr makes it quite difficult to put this book down. May I suggest you make yourself a nice cup of cocoa and settle in? It’s going to be a fun ride!
February 8, 2015
A beautifully written story about women of a certain age (above 35) who are friends, confidants, consistent sources of comfort and sounding boards for each other. Friends, family and the ups and downs of dating combine to provide a compelling story of love, laughter and life after 40. Each friend has her own relationship drama and they regularly meet up for sisterhood time.
My favorite part of the book is when Maggie is attempting to figure out who dunnit during an episode of ABC's Castle. She obviously has good taste since Castle is one of the best TV shows ever! Ironically the evil doer of misdeeds is 3XK who will rise from the dead for a two-parter this Monday night. Any Castle aficionado will understand Maggie's exceptional taste in television shows providing yet another reason to read this book.
My favorite part of the book is when Maggie is attempting to figure out who dunnit during an episode of ABC's Castle. She obviously has good taste since Castle is one of the best TV shows ever! Ironically the evil doer of misdeeds is 3XK who will rise from the dead for a two-parter this Monday night. Any Castle aficionado will understand Maggie's exceptional taste in television shows providing yet another reason to read this book.
January 12, 2015
It's official! I have become a Meredith Schorr fan after reading this book. I can completely relate to Maggie and her quest to find happiness. The author does an amazing job of taking her readers along this journey of self-discovery with her main character. Schorr's writing abilities are impeccable and I found myself completely engrossed in the story. You know it's a good book when you can't seem to put it down (can you say late night?) and that's exactly what happened to me! I highly recommend this book. I've since moved on to her another one of Meredith's books and so far it's as engaging as this book!
December 14, 2014
I have read everything Meredith Schorr writes, and I continue to be impressed with her ability to create authentic, relatable, and vivid characters, spot-on dialogue, and storylines that I think connect to everyone no matter their age. "How Do You Know" is such a heart-warming, funny, powerful novel that deals with issues so many of us face when it comes to the next step in our lives. Schorr is one of my favorite writers, and I'm giddy with anticipation whenever she has a new book out and always satisfied when I finish it. I highly recommend "How Do You Know?" and can't wait until her next one!
January 18, 2015
So excited this is a series. I loved everything about this book. I felt the characters were fleshed out amazingly, the story funny and touching, the plot engaging and original. What a treat this book is and we get more installments!!! I just adored Maggie...I could be her friend. I want her to be my friend. Schorr really knows who to draw a reader in and how to keep them glued to the page. Bravo Ms. Schorr, Bravo!!! 5 stars
January 1, 2015
Review to come soon!
February 22, 2019
Great ending to a pleasurable, fun-filled reading experience.
Maggie & Doug have been together for three years. On her 39th birthday and dreading 40, Maggie evaluates her life. Things are going along well, too well - there's no drama. Deciding to take a break from Doug he breaks up with her instead. Enjoy the trials and tribulations as for the next year, Maggie's life includes lots of drama without Doug to turn to on the adventure.
A great group of friends and family support Maggie along her new path.
Maggie & Doug have been together for three years. On her 39th birthday and dreading 40, Maggie evaluates her life. Things are going along well, too well - there's no drama. Deciding to take a break from Doug he breaks up with her instead. Enjoy the trials and tribulations as for the next year, Maggie's life includes lots of drama without Doug to turn to on the adventure.
A great group of friends and family support Maggie along her new path.
July 24, 2017
3.5 Stars
December 26, 2014
Usually when someone I don't know asks my age, I deadpan an answer that starts off something like this: "Age is such a false social construct, don't you think?" While I'm usually saying it to be funny and not because I'm avoiding revealing how young or old I am, this is something I do truly believe. I mention this because it's this idea of age and the false meaning we can sometimes be guilty of giving certain milestone birthdays that I kept coming back to while reading HOW DO YOU KNOW?, which follows Maggie Piper during the last year of her thirties and takes a close look at the whole idea, concept, and slight obsession many of us can have with age.
Maggie is not one bit thrilled to turn thirty-nine. The moment she does, she's constantly projecting herself ahead in her life, dreading what comes next: the big four-oh. Maggie's acute awareness of her age is incredibly realistic, and you don't have to have experienced being thirty-nine to enjoy this book and relate to its main character. I haven’t, and I truly loved this book because I related to it in so many other ways. I think most of us have had moments in our lives when, no matter how young we are, we just suddenly feel older. You may know the feeling: it's as though you think you should hurry up and be at a certain place in your life because that's what that age is "supposed" to be. It doesn't matter if it's career, love life, or some other personal goal: many of us have held ourselves against some sort of timeline or another. For Maggie, this concept of what her upcoming fortieth birthday means versus where she's at in her life at thirty-nine causes doubts and fears that lead to some big upheaval, starting with the breakup of her three-year relationship.
I'm not going to dive into the details of the plot, since the synopsis does a great job and I don't want to give anything away. I will say that what Maggie experiences is incredibly relatable, no matter what age you are, as is what Maggie's friends experience. This spans everything from clinging to past decisions and hurts, to dealing with the challenges of marriage and the changes that can happen in a relationship when a couple has kids, to being open to finding someone new after a breakup, to being vulnerable enough to admit wrong and finding the strength and courage to ask for a second chance.
Schorr's characters are engaging, likeable, and believable. The pacing of the story is perfect, and it's wonderfully well-written. If you've ever had doubts about where you're at in life or compared your life to the life of someone else, or if you've ever feared that you no longer have certain opportunities available to you just because of the year you were born, this book is for you. It's a good reminder that we're all different, and that big life events and personal growth happen on different timelines for each of us.
Maggie is not one bit thrilled to turn thirty-nine. The moment she does, she's constantly projecting herself ahead in her life, dreading what comes next: the big four-oh. Maggie's acute awareness of her age is incredibly realistic, and you don't have to have experienced being thirty-nine to enjoy this book and relate to its main character. I haven’t, and I truly loved this book because I related to it in so many other ways. I think most of us have had moments in our lives when, no matter how young we are, we just suddenly feel older. You may know the feeling: it's as though you think you should hurry up and be at a certain place in your life because that's what that age is "supposed" to be. It doesn't matter if it's career, love life, or some other personal goal: many of us have held ourselves against some sort of timeline or another. For Maggie, this concept of what her upcoming fortieth birthday means versus where she's at in her life at thirty-nine causes doubts and fears that lead to some big upheaval, starting with the breakup of her three-year relationship.
I'm not going to dive into the details of the plot, since the synopsis does a great job and I don't want to give anything away. I will say that what Maggie experiences is incredibly relatable, no matter what age you are, as is what Maggie's friends experience. This spans everything from clinging to past decisions and hurts, to dealing with the challenges of marriage and the changes that can happen in a relationship when a couple has kids, to being open to finding someone new after a breakup, to being vulnerable enough to admit wrong and finding the strength and courage to ask for a second chance.
Schorr's characters are engaging, likeable, and believable. The pacing of the story is perfect, and it's wonderfully well-written. If you've ever had doubts about where you're at in life or compared your life to the life of someone else, or if you've ever feared that you no longer have certain opportunities available to you just because of the year you were born, this book is for you. It's a good reminder that we're all different, and that big life events and personal growth happen on different timelines for each of us.
January 26, 2015
Maggie Piper is 39- and she's dreading turning 40. It's not that she's not happy, because she is, but she questions if she's happy enough. Her boyfriend Doug is amazing but she has her doubts about their relationship. She likes her job and she's good at it but it isn't necessarily her dream job. She's not sure if she wants kids or not but if she does want them her time to have them is running out. All of her friends seem to have a good idea of what direction they want their lives to take, but Maggie feels like she's a mess. When she sits Doug down shortly after her 39th birthday and requests a break, Doug requests a break-up, and Maggie spends the next year on a tumultuous path towards figuring out what it is what she really wants from life, and if being merely happy is enough for her.
I loved How Do You Know? for so many reasons. I read a lot of women's fiction and chick lit and I found that this book was well-written and very thoughtful. I loved the main character, Maggie Piper. She was far from perfect and she seemed fixated on her appearance as she approached forty but she somehow felt approachable still and she was definitely easy to relate to. I found myself rooting for her. Although we have chosen very different paths in our lives- I had three children and was married by the time I was 30 and she is unsure of the path she wanted her life to take by 40- I wanted her to find her own happy ending. I appreciated her journey towards getting to know herself. It was bumpy and unsteady at times but it was authentic. Maggie's voice felt real and not forced at all, and I honestly didn't know what path her story would take until the very last pages. It's not often that a story can surprise me- I can usually see an ending from a mile away!- and I loved that How Do You Know? kept me guessing.
The supporting characters are fantastic as well. I loved that author Schorr created characters that were all so distinct from one another, yet it didn't feel like she was writing them in just to fill a particular role. They felt like a real group of kick-ass girlfriends who you would be able to rely on during your time of need. All of them supported Maggie in her choices, even if they didn't always make sense! In reality, I wish that I had a group of girlfriends this awesome!
I laughed during parts of this book, and I reflected on my own choices in life during others, but most of all I sat back and enjoyed this one. Schorr has ventured into writing women's fiction (rather than its lighter counterpart, chick lit) with How Do You Know? and I feel like this was a successful expedition. I'm definitely looking forward to future books in this series, and I thank the author for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review!
I loved How Do You Know? for so many reasons. I read a lot of women's fiction and chick lit and I found that this book was well-written and very thoughtful. I loved the main character, Maggie Piper. She was far from perfect and she seemed fixated on her appearance as she approached forty but she somehow felt approachable still and she was definitely easy to relate to. I found myself rooting for her. Although we have chosen very different paths in our lives- I had three children and was married by the time I was 30 and she is unsure of the path she wanted her life to take by 40- I wanted her to find her own happy ending. I appreciated her journey towards getting to know herself. It was bumpy and unsteady at times but it was authentic. Maggie's voice felt real and not forced at all, and I honestly didn't know what path her story would take until the very last pages. It's not often that a story can surprise me- I can usually see an ending from a mile away!- and I loved that How Do You Know? kept me guessing.
The supporting characters are fantastic as well. I loved that author Schorr created characters that were all so distinct from one another, yet it didn't feel like she was writing them in just to fill a particular role. They felt like a real group of kick-ass girlfriends who you would be able to rely on during your time of need. All of them supported Maggie in her choices, even if they didn't always make sense! In reality, I wish that I had a group of girlfriends this awesome!
I laughed during parts of this book, and I reflected on my own choices in life during others, but most of all I sat back and enjoyed this one. Schorr has ventured into writing women's fiction (rather than its lighter counterpart, chick lit) with How Do You Know? and I feel like this was a successful expedition. I'm definitely looking forward to future books in this series, and I thank the author for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review!
December 23, 2014
In Meredith Schorr's How Do You Know (Seeking Happily Ever After), Maggie is a 39 year old woman in a perfect relationship. To the outside world everything in her life is right on track. She has the perfect guy, perfect job, perfect group of friends, and all around perfect life. However, Maggie doesn't feel perfect. She feels unsettled and is afraid a spark is missing in her life. Does she want kids? Is she getting too old to have kids? What if she decides she wants kids in 5 years and it is too late? Maggie is also terrified of turning 40. She thinks it will all be downhill from there: weight gain, no more firm body, etc. What is troubling her even more is her uneventful relationship with Doug. They have dated for 3 years and love each other. They never fight or have up's and down's. However, Maggie is afraid that there might be something missing. What if there is someone else out there for her? Are things too smooth between her and Doug? Why isn't she ready to commit fully to him? All of these questions are swirling in and out of her head as she turns 39.
What starts as a romantic birthday dinner ends with Maggie asking Doug for a short break and him breaking things off entirely. While sad about her relationship ending, Maggie decides she has one year before she turns 40 to get her life together and discover what it is she has been missing. She quickly falls into an office romance with an older man. However, things do not go as she hopes and she soon finds herself back on the market as the clock to turning 40 quickly ticks.
Maggie realizes as time goes on that younger men want relationships with women in their 20's; men in their 40's are searching for women in their 20's to mid 30's; and finally men in their 50's will date women in their 40's. Sadly, the men in their 50's are most likely divorced with children and not wanting to start a new family. Maggie feels pressure from herself and her family to have kids and knowing she is almost 40 and not in a relationship starts to frighten her. Did she take Doug for granted all along?
How Do You Know (Seeking Happily Ever After) is a laugh out loud funny Chick Lit novel that has readers following Maggie through the last year in her 30's and into the first year of her 40's as she discovers who she is and what she really wants. We see her bond with her girlfriends, grow closer to her mother, and see herself in a new light. Meredith Schorr wrote a fast paced novel that is sure to leave fans of Chick Lit happy! How Do You Know is definitely a book that I recommend!
*I have been provided a complimentary copy of the book, How Do You Know, for the purpose of review.*
What starts as a romantic birthday dinner ends with Maggie asking Doug for a short break and him breaking things off entirely. While sad about her relationship ending, Maggie decides she has one year before she turns 40 to get her life together and discover what it is she has been missing. She quickly falls into an office romance with an older man. However, things do not go as she hopes and she soon finds herself back on the market as the clock to turning 40 quickly ticks.
Maggie realizes as time goes on that younger men want relationships with women in their 20's; men in their 40's are searching for women in their 20's to mid 30's; and finally men in their 50's will date women in their 40's. Sadly, the men in their 50's are most likely divorced with children and not wanting to start a new family. Maggie feels pressure from herself and her family to have kids and knowing she is almost 40 and not in a relationship starts to frighten her. Did she take Doug for granted all along?
How Do You Know (Seeking Happily Ever After) is a laugh out loud funny Chick Lit novel that has readers following Maggie through the last year in her 30's and into the first year of her 40's as she discovers who she is and what she really wants. We see her bond with her girlfriends, grow closer to her mother, and see herself in a new light. Meredith Schorr wrote a fast paced novel that is sure to leave fans of Chick Lit happy! How Do You Know is definitely a book that I recommend!
*I have been provided a complimentary copy of the book, How Do You Know, for the purpose of review.*
December 2, 2014
What a great plot line!
I loved every minute of this. Although, some of Maggie's choices have me shaking my head at her. Being a 39 year old and coming up on 40 really fast (my bday is Jan! Ack!), I could understand all of her foibles. I may not agree exactly but sometimes you have to find yourself to figure out the rest of life. And at 39 of course there is this huge stigma that we are supposed to have our life already figured out by then! Married with children and all that. It started freaking her out. Things go from her freaking out to telling her amazing three year boyfriend that she isn't sure what is going on. She didn't want to break up but she needed time. Unfortunately for her, he doesn't give her that!
She needed to try something different to test her boundaries. She does some things that I may not do, but it's these choices that are important. They don't always make sense but she has to grow to see that.
Although the book is sort of heart wrenching with a bit of drama, at the same time there is enough change and growth to really make that drama understandable. It's not all drama though, there are some breathable moments throughout as well.
The calms allow for Maggie to grow and for some of all of the year that has been to soak in. The time line also seemed pretty genuine. Nothing seemed forced.
The characters are fantastic!
The relationship ups and downs are so in tune with how life really is. But in a fantastical, over rated sort of way to make a great plot.
What's really interesting are her side kicks. Her friends and her family add in a bit of needed antics and fun. It's not always the best advice that they give but I love that they all have this fabulous feeling of love and are there for each other. Even the smaller characters were lovable!
Lindsay was the only character I didn't like! Nothing was said at the end about what happened to her. I wanted karma to kick her in the ass!
This is the first in a series and I cannot wait for the next!
Meredith Schorr is a new to me author. This will NOT be the last book I read of hers.
In short: Cute, bubbly romance with a bit of angst and growth. Not your average gal or age for a romance! Love it!
Received from the publisher for an honest review!
I loved every minute of this. Although, some of Maggie's choices have me shaking my head at her. Being a 39 year old and coming up on 40 really fast (my bday is Jan! Ack!), I could understand all of her foibles. I may not agree exactly but sometimes you have to find yourself to figure out the rest of life. And at 39 of course there is this huge stigma that we are supposed to have our life already figured out by then! Married with children and all that. It started freaking her out. Things go from her freaking out to telling her amazing three year boyfriend that she isn't sure what is going on. She didn't want to break up but she needed time. Unfortunately for her, he doesn't give her that!
She needed to try something different to test her boundaries. She does some things that I may not do, but it's these choices that are important. They don't always make sense but she has to grow to see that.
Although the book is sort of heart wrenching with a bit of drama, at the same time there is enough change and growth to really make that drama understandable. It's not all drama though, there are some breathable moments throughout as well.
The calms allow for Maggie to grow and for some of all of the year that has been to soak in. The time line also seemed pretty genuine. Nothing seemed forced.
The characters are fantastic!
The relationship ups and downs are so in tune with how life really is. But in a fantastical, over rated sort of way to make a great plot.
What's really interesting are her side kicks. Her friends and her family add in a bit of needed antics and fun. It's not always the best advice that they give but I love that they all have this fabulous feeling of love and are there for each other. Even the smaller characters were lovable!
Lindsay was the only character I didn't like! Nothing was said at the end about what happened to her. I wanted karma to kick her in the ass!
This is the first in a series and I cannot wait for the next!
Meredith Schorr is a new to me author. This will NOT be the last book I read of hers.
In short: Cute, bubbly romance with a bit of angst and growth. Not your average gal or age for a romance! Love it!
Received from the publisher for an honest review!
January 31, 2015
'THANK GOD I WAXED.'
Okay, that's the first line of How Do You Know? Isn't that a great first line? How could you just NOT want to keep reading when it starts like that? It made me laugh.
'"I have no idea how I managed to lose my balance while wearing flats but I am fine." I brush the loose dirt off my dress and try not to care that I'm wearing a Spider Man bandage.'
And then she's wearing a Spider Man band-aid? I love this woman! I would so wear one too. I knew right away that this was going to be a character I was going to enjoy and a story that I would not want to put down.
Maggie is celebrating her 39th birthday. She has one year until she turns the big 4-0. And in her mind, she is supposed to have 'made it' by 40. She feels like she hasn't 'made it' and she starts to question everything in her life. She decides she needs to make some changes and those ideas back fire on her.
'Forty is like a train approaching me at warp speed while my shoelace is caught in the track.'
She spends the next 365 days trying to figure out who and what makes her happy.
'Am I a has-been? Am I past my prime?'
She has plenty of support and get lots of advice from her family and friends. Some give more advice than she wants or needs. But those were the characters I enjoyed the most - they really told Maggie what's what. Gotta love Aunt Helen!
'Some say peer pressure is the biggest motivator for people to do things they aren't sure they want to do. I say those people have never met my Aunt Helen.'
How Do You Know? was such a treat to read. I enjoyed every bit of this well written, funny, insightful story.
I have to be honest here. I am a tad past 40 (okay, maybe a bit more than a tad, if I'm completely honest) and I remember worrying about hitting that number. But you know what? It's just a number. And it doesn't really mean anything. And.... I don't act my age. Yikes, that would be bad!
'... my yourthful spirit has not deserted me with the cessation of my thirties, and there is not a damn thing wrong with that.'
Okay, that's the first line of How Do You Know? Isn't that a great first line? How could you just NOT want to keep reading when it starts like that? It made me laugh.
'"I have no idea how I managed to lose my balance while wearing flats but I am fine." I brush the loose dirt off my dress and try not to care that I'm wearing a Spider Man bandage.'
And then she's wearing a Spider Man band-aid? I love this woman! I would so wear one too. I knew right away that this was going to be a character I was going to enjoy and a story that I would not want to put down.
Maggie is celebrating her 39th birthday. She has one year until she turns the big 4-0. And in her mind, she is supposed to have 'made it' by 40. She feels like she hasn't 'made it' and she starts to question everything in her life. She decides she needs to make some changes and those ideas back fire on her.
'Forty is like a train approaching me at warp speed while my shoelace is caught in the track.'
She spends the next 365 days trying to figure out who and what makes her happy.
'Am I a has-been? Am I past my prime?'
She has plenty of support and get lots of advice from her family and friends. Some give more advice than she wants or needs. But those were the characters I enjoyed the most - they really told Maggie what's what. Gotta love Aunt Helen!
'Some say peer pressure is the biggest motivator for people to do things they aren't sure they want to do. I say those people have never met my Aunt Helen.'
How Do You Know? was such a treat to read. I enjoyed every bit of this well written, funny, insightful story.
I have to be honest here. I am a tad past 40 (okay, maybe a bit more than a tad, if I'm completely honest) and I remember worrying about hitting that number. But you know what? It's just a number. And it doesn't really mean anything. And.... I don't act my age. Yikes, that would be bad!
'... my yourthful spirit has not deserted me with the cessation of my thirties, and there is not a damn thing wrong with that.'
March 30, 2015
Originally reviewed at Novel Escapes
I confess that I have been meaning to one of Meredith Schorr’s books for a long time and I wish I’d slotted one into the list before now because I really enjoyed her writing in this novel. How Do You Know? feels different than other romantic women’s fiction and I think that’s because there was a maturity in her characters and a depth I sometimes find lacking in other books.
Maggie is approaching a birthday which scares the pants off her- she isn’t quite sure why the number is weighing so heavily on her mind but it’s enough to make her question the relationship she’s in and ask for a chance to see what else is out there. I liked that at that early point in the novel Schorr doesn’t give us the entire picture of her relationship with her live-in boyfriend- we aren’t aware of the depth of their relationship or how they interact. I actually supported Maggie’s decision to see if she could find the passion she was seeking. Throughout the rest of the story though we are slowly given more details about their lives together and I felt much empathy for Maggie, the boyfriend and their confusion.
Meredith Schorr’s novel is impactful and very funny- there are plenty of supporting roles that I grew attached to and none of them were superfluous to the story. Maggie’s friends and co-workers were key in her exploration but I think that she, herself, was the most important player in her voyage throughout the book. I was so happy in the ending, it was perhaps expected by some but I was still unsure how it would all turn out- I like that about a book!
How Do You Know was a great read. I am so glad I finally got to this author on my reading list and I’ll be keeping a watchful eye to see what comes up next.
Thank you to Booktrope for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
I confess that I have been meaning to one of Meredith Schorr’s books for a long time and I wish I’d slotted one into the list before now because I really enjoyed her writing in this novel. How Do You Know? feels different than other romantic women’s fiction and I think that’s because there was a maturity in her characters and a depth I sometimes find lacking in other books.
Maggie is approaching a birthday which scares the pants off her- she isn’t quite sure why the number is weighing so heavily on her mind but it’s enough to make her question the relationship she’s in and ask for a chance to see what else is out there. I liked that at that early point in the novel Schorr doesn’t give us the entire picture of her relationship with her live-in boyfriend- we aren’t aware of the depth of their relationship or how they interact. I actually supported Maggie’s decision to see if she could find the passion she was seeking. Throughout the rest of the story though we are slowly given more details about their lives together and I felt much empathy for Maggie, the boyfriend and their confusion.
Meredith Schorr’s novel is impactful and very funny- there are plenty of supporting roles that I grew attached to and none of them were superfluous to the story. Maggie’s friends and co-workers were key in her exploration but I think that she, herself, was the most important player in her voyage throughout the book. I was so happy in the ending, it was perhaps expected by some but I was still unsure how it would all turn out- I like that about a book!
How Do You Know was a great read. I am so glad I finally got to this author on my reading list and I’ll be keeping a watchful eye to see what comes up next.
Thank you to Booktrope for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
October 16, 2015
In How Do You Know?, author Meredith Schorr weaves a wonderful women's fiction story that is a must read for every woman.
Maggie Piper is on the cusp of turning thirty-nine, and as she takes stock of her life, she realizes that her biological clock is ticking loudly, and wonders if the various life milestones are out of reach. Realizing that she is at a crossroads in her life, and only has a year until she hits the Big 4-0, she embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery that will teach her a valuable lesson that life milestones don't happen on schedule, and that age is just a number.
I absolutely loved following Maggie's story, she is a sassy lady that anyone can relate to. I saw so much of myself in Maggie, I found myself smiling as she pondered the various life milestones, I too once found myself in her shoes, so I couldn't help but cheer for her as she embarked on her year long personal journey of self discovery. Author Meredith Schorr weaves a lovely story that is like a breath of fresh air, it flows so smoothly that you can't help but find yourself immersed in Maggie's story.
There is enough drama, humor, laugh-out-loud moments, and even a bit of food for thought that makes you stop and ponder your own life's journey. How Do You Know? is simply a refreshing food for your soul kind of story that will stay with you long after the last word has been read.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention that I love the fabulous book cover featuring the famous landscape of the city that never sleeps, I wouldn't expect anything less from a true New York girl.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Maggie Piper is on the cusp of turning thirty-nine, and as she takes stock of her life, she realizes that her biological clock is ticking loudly, and wonders if the various life milestones are out of reach. Realizing that she is at a crossroads in her life, and only has a year until she hits the Big 4-0, she embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery that will teach her a valuable lesson that life milestones don't happen on schedule, and that age is just a number.
I absolutely loved following Maggie's story, she is a sassy lady that anyone can relate to. I saw so much of myself in Maggie, I found myself smiling as she pondered the various life milestones, I too once found myself in her shoes, so I couldn't help but cheer for her as she embarked on her year long personal journey of self discovery. Author Meredith Schorr weaves a lovely story that is like a breath of fresh air, it flows so smoothly that you can't help but find yourself immersed in Maggie's story.
There is enough drama, humor, laugh-out-loud moments, and even a bit of food for thought that makes you stop and ponder your own life's journey. How Do You Know? is simply a refreshing food for your soul kind of story that will stay with you long after the last word has been read.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention that I love the fabulous book cover featuring the famous landscape of the city that never sleeps, I wouldn't expect anything less from a true New York girl.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
February 2, 2015
Maggie has the perfect boyfriend…she just doesn’t know it. Usually the grass isn’t greener on the other side, but it takes some people venturing over on that other side of grass to see that.
Maggie doesn’t have the excitement and butterflies with her live in boyfriend Doug anymore. They’ve been together a long time. He’s a great guy and all, she’s just starting to doubt their relationship. And it doesn’t help that her 40th birthday is looming in the near future. So Maggie decides to tell Doug her feelings and they break up.
I loved how real this book was. I got into the story so much, I was legit scared for Maggie. I was silently screaming in my head, “No! Don’t do it! Don’t break up with him; you’re going to regret it!” I honestly felt nervous for Maggie that she lost her chance and wasn’t going to find happiness with another guy again.
I loved how I didn’t know where this book was going and where it would end up. And I’m not going to spoil it and tell you either.
See how I used the word “love” a few times in this review? That pretty much sums up how I feel about it.
This is my second Meredith Schorr book, and you can definitely call me a fan.
My Rating: 4 1/2 stars
***Disclosure. I work for Booktrope Publishing which is also the publishing company of this book. However, I receive no monetary or any kind of compensation for sales of this book, or for writing a positive review. This review was my honest opinion. And I was given a free copy in exchange for my honest review.***
Maggie doesn’t have the excitement and butterflies with her live in boyfriend Doug anymore. They’ve been together a long time. He’s a great guy and all, she’s just starting to doubt their relationship. And it doesn’t help that her 40th birthday is looming in the near future. So Maggie decides to tell Doug her feelings and they break up.
I loved how real this book was. I got into the story so much, I was legit scared for Maggie. I was silently screaming in my head, “No! Don’t do it! Don’t break up with him; you’re going to regret it!” I honestly felt nervous for Maggie that she lost her chance and wasn’t going to find happiness with another guy again.
I loved how I didn’t know where this book was going and where it would end up. And I’m not going to spoil it and tell you either.
See how I used the word “love” a few times in this review? That pretty much sums up how I feel about it.
This is my second Meredith Schorr book, and you can definitely call me a fan.
My Rating: 4 1/2 stars
***Disclosure. I work for Booktrope Publishing which is also the publishing company of this book. However, I receive no monetary or any kind of compensation for sales of this book, or for writing a positive review. This review was my honest opinion. And I was given a free copy in exchange for my honest review.***
June 25, 2016
Meredith Schorr is a terrific storyteller, and How Do You Know? is the first book from her brand new series, Seeking Happily Ever After. This realistic story captured my attention from the very beginning with its entertaining plot, lively characters and New York City landscape. Since I grew up near NYC, I was able to identify with some of the restaurants, streets and venues, which resulted in many feelings of comfortableness.
This is the story of Maggie Piper, a thirty-nine year old marketing manager completely obsessed with turning the big 4 0. Maggie is single, smart, and beautiful, yet due to societal norms and her own insecurities, has difficulty navigating her future. Luckily, she is surrounded by some very good friends who help and support her through this tenuous year. Maggie's decision to take a break from her loving, longstanding, and comfortable relationship with her boyfriend Doug, is the straw that broke the camel's back. Ms. Schorr does an amazing job of evolving Maggie's character from a caterpillar into a butterfly.
Overall, this is a well-written, emotionally charged book with a great cast of characters. It has a vibe reminiscent of the popular Sex and the City series, with Maggie being a more cultivated version of Carrie's character. I loved how Ms. Schorr used matzoh ball soup as Maggie's anchor to good times with her family. This story has a wonderful and engaging ending, which continues to make me smile whenever I think about Maggie and Doug. I can't wait for book two!
This is the story of Maggie Piper, a thirty-nine year old marketing manager completely obsessed with turning the big 4 0. Maggie is single, smart, and beautiful, yet due to societal norms and her own insecurities, has difficulty navigating her future. Luckily, she is surrounded by some very good friends who help and support her through this tenuous year. Maggie's decision to take a break from her loving, longstanding, and comfortable relationship with her boyfriend Doug, is the straw that broke the camel's back. Ms. Schorr does an amazing job of evolving Maggie's character from a caterpillar into a butterfly.
Overall, this is a well-written, emotionally charged book with a great cast of characters. It has a vibe reminiscent of the popular Sex and the City series, with Maggie being a more cultivated version of Carrie's character. I loved how Ms. Schorr used matzoh ball soup as Maggie's anchor to good times with her family. This story has a wonderful and engaging ending, which continues to make me smile whenever I think about Maggie and Doug. I can't wait for book two!
January 1, 2015
For many women, turning the big 4-0 is not a birthday that is greatly anticipated. In Maggie’s case, it’s on her 39th birthday that she starts questioning choices she’s made and wonders if she’s missing out on life. Although she has great friends, a loving family, and an amazing boyfriend, doubts and fears begin to surface. She starts to rethink what she wants out of life while not allowing her age to define her. She even goes as far as proposing a “break” with her live-in boyfriend, Doug. Citing that it will give her time to figure out what she wants in the future years, but her decision backfires when Doug, obviously offended, calls off the relationship altogether. Now single, Maggie is forced to sort out how she wants her life to be while not following what society maps out appropriate for a woman of her age.
I just turned 40 this year and I wasn’t sure how I would feel. Unlike Maggie, I’m not single and I do have kids but turning 40 did have me thinking about how I want the next 40 years of my life to be. I have to say, turning 40 wasn’t the traumatic event that I hear other women talking about. I may be a rarity in this, but I am excited to start a new decade and am not ashamed or embarrassed to tell people my real age!
No matter what your age, you are sure to enjoy this book. With a cast of fun characters, a great story and relatable situations you can’t go wrong with this novel. What better way to ring in the New Year than with this amazing book?
I just turned 40 this year and I wasn’t sure how I would feel. Unlike Maggie, I’m not single and I do have kids but turning 40 did have me thinking about how I want the next 40 years of my life to be. I have to say, turning 40 wasn’t the traumatic event that I hear other women talking about. I may be a rarity in this, but I am excited to start a new decade and am not ashamed or embarrassed to tell people my real age!
No matter what your age, you are sure to enjoy this book. With a cast of fun characters, a great story and relatable situations you can’t go wrong with this novel. What better way to ring in the New Year than with this amazing book?
January 29, 2015
Maggie Piper is about to turn 39. She has a great set of friends, a good job in marketing at a law firm and a loving boyfriend, Doug- who happens to be a few years younger than her. Maggie is beginning to feel insecure about her age and her relationship. On a birthday dinner date Maggie decides that she needs a break from Doug, which quickly turns into a break-up. Now, single and less than a year from 40, Maggie has to try to figure out who she is and how she knows what true love is.
Maggie is a very real character. She is clumsy but fun and her favorite pastime is watching TV. Her journey from love lost to self-discovery is one many women could relate to. Maggie's friends and family add comedic relief and drama, I'm sure we all have an Aunt Helen in our lives that is blatantly honest and seems to bring up topics at the worst times. As I followed Maggie through her year until she turned 40, there was a great amount of insecurity about her ticking biological clock, the age itself and all of her friends and family members that were her age and married with kids. At some point, this became a little overwhelming to me, but as Maggie began to discover who she really is, there was a great relief. Overall, How Do You Know? is a contemporary, fun, journey of self-discovery that any woman could relate to.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
Maggie is a very real character. She is clumsy but fun and her favorite pastime is watching TV. Her journey from love lost to self-discovery is one many women could relate to. Maggie's friends and family add comedic relief and drama, I'm sure we all have an Aunt Helen in our lives that is blatantly honest and seems to bring up topics at the worst times. As I followed Maggie through her year until she turned 40, there was a great amount of insecurity about her ticking biological clock, the age itself and all of her friends and family members that were her age and married with kids. At some point, this became a little overwhelming to me, but as Maggie began to discover who she really is, there was a great relief. Overall, How Do You Know? is a contemporary, fun, journey of self-discovery that any woman could relate to.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
January 4, 2015
Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy Ms. Schorr’s new release. It was a good read that went fast and kept me reading from beginning to end. I laughed. I was sad. I was hopeful. I experienced it all.
I enjoyed watching Maggie grow and come to terms with herself. You can’t help but love Maggie. She’s real, klutzy, comical. She’s down-to-earth, relatable. I’d go out for a drink with her and her friends during Happy Hour. And I loved the ending. It was fabulous. And not at all how I thought it was going to end.
I think How Do You Know? will relate to quite a few women, their status notwithstanding. I don’t think it matters if you are in your early twenties, turning forty, single, or married, we all asked ourselves, “How do I know?” What was funny to me was that I remember thinking that I would be in Maggie’s position when I hit 40. I would bet most women have thought that, or at least considered it. Some may be experiencing it. Whatever the circumstance, you will get what Maggie is going through.
All-in-all, a good read!
Would I recommend it: Yes, I would recommend it. I would recommend all of her books.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
http://everyfreechance.com/?s=how+do+...
I enjoyed watching Maggie grow and come to terms with herself. You can’t help but love Maggie. She’s real, klutzy, comical. She’s down-to-earth, relatable. I’d go out for a drink with her and her friends during Happy Hour. And I loved the ending. It was fabulous. And not at all how I thought it was going to end.
I think How Do You Know? will relate to quite a few women, their status notwithstanding. I don’t think it matters if you are in your early twenties, turning forty, single, or married, we all asked ourselves, “How do I know?” What was funny to me was that I remember thinking that I would be in Maggie’s position when I hit 40. I would bet most women have thought that, or at least considered it. Some may be experiencing it. Whatever the circumstance, you will get what Maggie is going through.
All-in-all, a good read!
Would I recommend it: Yes, I would recommend it. I would recommend all of her books.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
http://everyfreechance.com/?s=how+do+...
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