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The Single Girl's Calendar
A task a day to cure a broken heart.
Esmé Peel is approaching thirty with some trepidation, but hope in her heart. If she can just get her long-term boyfriend Andrew to propose, she will have ticked everything off her 'things to do by the time you're 30' list. She didn't reckon on finding another woman's earring in her bed however, and soon she finds herself single, homeless and in need of a new plan. Her best friend Carys gives her the perfect present – The Single Girl’s Calendar – which has a different cure for heartbreak every day:
Day 1: Look and feel fabulous with a new hair style.
Day 2: Step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
Day 3: Reconnect with friends and enjoy!
Despite thinking it's a bit of a gimmick, Esmé hasn't got any better ideas, so she puts the plan into action. By the end of week one she has four new male housemates, and despite a broken heart she is determined to show Andrew she can do more than survive, she can thrive.
582 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2018
182 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
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Erin Green
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
January 15, 2018
5☆ Fresh and Funny Rom Com
The Single Girl's Calendar is funny, mischievous, fresh, a story of finding oneself, changing perspectives, Challanging life, Breaking Boundaries, Learning how to have fun and be single.
When Esmé discovers the love of her love Andrew has been unfaithful, her world comes crashing down around her!
Unable to cope and feeling low, best friend Carys decides the only way to get her friend through this is to use the ' Single Girl's Calendar' ..... literally think Christmas advent calendar as it had chocolate treats and no rubbish jokes hehe
Ok so the single girl's Calendar has a daily inspirational task/ challange to complete every day. Then you reward yourself with a chocolate.
No time like the present.... Day 1...Look and Feel Fabulous with a New Hairstyle.
So that's exactly what Esmé did.
She had a radical change!
So the Calendar challenges carry on.
Some with hilarious consequences.
Esmé moves in with a house full of men as a spontaneous decision aided by the Calendar... all of them Her brothers mates.
I absolutely adored the dynamics of the house.
Each male housemate so very different yet all so charismatic.
I loved Asa he is mysterious, funny, kind, sexy, yet can be obnoxious, protective, moody, but wow is he an interesting character. He has a soft spot for Esmé, although she can't see it!
Then there is Jonah, Esmé childhood crush who is a pig, treats women like pieces of meat, he is a sucessful model, arrogant... yet even after all those terrible traits Esmé is head over heels for him... he don't even know she exists!
Will Esmé ever truly heal her broken heart?
Or will she ever find love again?
Can she ever learn to trust Men again in order to find love?
Erin has taken the breakup to a whole new level! I think it's a fantastic and fresh idea. What better way to mend a broken heart... chocolate, friendship, and a selection of positive challanges.
The Single Girl's Calendar is a cosy warm read that had me laughing out loud, and thinking wow maybe I should try doing that task... not for breakup purposes but to build my confidence.
I found this book could potentially be very empowering.
Also don't be fooled into thinking there is no serious topics. At some point I found myself tearful.
This book is a very easy read, perfect for those cold nights where your looking to snuggle up and get lost into a fun book.
The perfect Chick Lit, Rom Com.
Thank you to Aria for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
All my reviews can be found on my Blog Website.
This review has been added : https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
The Single Girl's Calendar is funny, mischievous, fresh, a story of finding oneself, changing perspectives, Challanging life, Breaking Boundaries, Learning how to have fun and be single.
When Esmé discovers the love of her love Andrew has been unfaithful, her world comes crashing down around her!
Unable to cope and feeling low, best friend Carys decides the only way to get her friend through this is to use the ' Single Girl's Calendar' ..... literally think Christmas advent calendar as it had chocolate treats and no rubbish jokes hehe
Ok so the single girl's Calendar has a daily inspirational task/ challange to complete every day. Then you reward yourself with a chocolate.
No time like the present.... Day 1...Look and Feel Fabulous with a New Hairstyle.
So that's exactly what Esmé did.
She had a radical change!
So the Calendar challenges carry on.
Some with hilarious consequences.
Esmé moves in with a house full of men as a spontaneous decision aided by the Calendar... all of them Her brothers mates.
I absolutely adored the dynamics of the house.
Each male housemate so very different yet all so charismatic.
I loved Asa he is mysterious, funny, kind, sexy, yet can be obnoxious, protective, moody, but wow is he an interesting character. He has a soft spot for Esmé, although she can't see it!
Then there is Jonah, Esmé childhood crush who is a pig, treats women like pieces of meat, he is a sucessful model, arrogant... yet even after all those terrible traits Esmé is head over heels for him... he don't even know she exists!
Will Esmé ever truly heal her broken heart?
Or will she ever find love again?
Can she ever learn to trust Men again in order to find love?
Erin has taken the breakup to a whole new level! I think it's a fantastic and fresh idea. What better way to mend a broken heart... chocolate, friendship, and a selection of positive challanges.
The Single Girl's Calendar is a cosy warm read that had me laughing out loud, and thinking wow maybe I should try doing that task... not for breakup purposes but to build my confidence.
I found this book could potentially be very empowering.
Also don't be fooled into thinking there is no serious topics. At some point I found myself tearful.
This book is a very easy read, perfect for those cold nights where your looking to snuggle up and get lost into a fun book.
The perfect Chick Lit, Rom Com.
Thank you to Aria for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
All my reviews can be found on my Blog Website.
This review has been added : https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
January 6, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
Sadie. Esmé instantly hated the name, adding it to the shit list of her life.
She and Andrew were finished. She wanted it to be dignified, she wanted a clean break. As long as his testicles fell from his body after having caught a serious, yet incurable, STD which he had instantly shared with Sexy Sadie during their love tryst.
I’m sure she’s heartbroken at the thought of less washing, less ironing and an end to the stream of blondes sneaking down her staircase at the weekend…
Seven was the luckiest number. Seven colours in a rainbow. Seven dwarves helped Snow White. Seven days in a week. Even, seven horcrux in Harry Potter.
Esmé’s forte was mentioning the elephant in the room during difficult situations. Andrew’s granddad had a prosthetic leg due to his diabetes – how many times had she unconsciously referred to pirates and wooden legs whilst visiting?
Esmé tucked into every course with gusto, despite the evident scorn of four svelte models on her table, who simply pushed their forks around their plates without lifting a morsel to their mouths. Esmé proudly scraped her plate clean… The room seemed to be full of beautiful stick insects and wide shouldered hunks, all with shiny coats, clipped nails and good teeth.
My Review:
I adored this amusing, quirky, and ingenious story from beginning to end. My interest was immediately snagged by Ms. Green’s crisp, enticing, and entertaining writing style; but it was the peculiar, eccentric, and intriguing characters that held me rapt to my Kindle. I couldn’t get enough of this superbly written, well-constructed, unpredictable, and cleverly contrived tale. It was divinely cheeky, irreverent, witty, humorous, emotive, and observantly insightful. I smirked, giggle-snorted, and laughed aloud during this delightful and engaging tale; it was found treasure.
Sadie. Esmé instantly hated the name, adding it to the shit list of her life.
She and Andrew were finished. She wanted it to be dignified, she wanted a clean break. As long as his testicles fell from his body after having caught a serious, yet incurable, STD which he had instantly shared with Sexy Sadie during their love tryst.
I’m sure she’s heartbroken at the thought of less washing, less ironing and an end to the stream of blondes sneaking down her staircase at the weekend…
Seven was the luckiest number. Seven colours in a rainbow. Seven dwarves helped Snow White. Seven days in a week. Even, seven horcrux in Harry Potter.
Esmé’s forte was mentioning the elephant in the room during difficult situations. Andrew’s granddad had a prosthetic leg due to his diabetes – how many times had she unconsciously referred to pirates and wooden legs whilst visiting?
Esmé tucked into every course with gusto, despite the evident scorn of four svelte models on her table, who simply pushed their forks around their plates without lifting a morsel to their mouths. Esmé proudly scraped her plate clean… The room seemed to be full of beautiful stick insects and wide shouldered hunks, all with shiny coats, clipped nails and good teeth.
My Review:
I adored this amusing, quirky, and ingenious story from beginning to end. My interest was immediately snagged by Ms. Green’s crisp, enticing, and entertaining writing style; but it was the peculiar, eccentric, and intriguing characters that held me rapt to my Kindle. I couldn’t get enough of this superbly written, well-constructed, unpredictable, and cleverly contrived tale. It was divinely cheeky, irreverent, witty, humorous, emotive, and observantly insightful. I smirked, giggle-snorted, and laughed aloud during this delightful and engaging tale; it was found treasure.
December 14, 2017
I really enjoyed The Single Girl's Calendar, and it was the first book I have read by Erin Green. It is quite funny in places, and heart wrenching in others, in ways you wouldn't predict as you first start to read the book.
I loved the concept of the Single Girl's Calendar, a task a day style calendar to help you get over a break up and its exactly what Esme needs after she discovers her boyfriend of 7 years has been cheating on her. Within a couple of days she has change significant parts of her life much to the bemusement of her friends and family.
Unfortunately I really disliked Esme at times, she just grated on my nerves a bit, and frankly I agreed with her new house mate Asa's assessment of her character. She doesn't seem to be capable of thinking for herself half the time. Whereas Asa well he is fabulous, I really took to him early on and then when you learn more about him, well I think I fell a bit in love myself.
There are assorted secrets involving all of the housemates in Esme's new flatshare, and just why is her brother hanging around the whole time. I loved the sibling banter though between Esme and Kane.
With 4 male housemates, 2 female colleagues, a best friend, a brother, an ex-boyfriend and a next door neighbour all vying for space in the book, I found it was a bit slow at times, while trying to get them all straight in my head, and even after that although I really enjoyed the book, I can't put my finger on it, but the best I can say is it was missing the x-factor!
This is the first book I've read published in 2018, and its certainly an encouraging start to a year of new releases ahead, and I'd certainly look at other books by the author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Aria for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I loved the concept of the Single Girl's Calendar, a task a day style calendar to help you get over a break up and its exactly what Esme needs after she discovers her boyfriend of 7 years has been cheating on her. Within a couple of days she has change significant parts of her life much to the bemusement of her friends and family.
Unfortunately I really disliked Esme at times, she just grated on my nerves a bit, and frankly I agreed with her new house mate Asa's assessment of her character. She doesn't seem to be capable of thinking for herself half the time. Whereas Asa well he is fabulous, I really took to him early on and then when you learn more about him, well I think I fell a bit in love myself.
There are assorted secrets involving all of the housemates in Esme's new flatshare, and just why is her brother hanging around the whole time. I loved the sibling banter though between Esme and Kane.
With 4 male housemates, 2 female colleagues, a best friend, a brother, an ex-boyfriend and a next door neighbour all vying for space in the book, I found it was a bit slow at times, while trying to get them all straight in my head, and even after that although I really enjoyed the book, I can't put my finger on it, but the best I can say is it was missing the x-factor!
This is the first book I've read published in 2018, and its certainly an encouraging start to a year of new releases ahead, and I'd certainly look at other books by the author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Aria for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 17, 2018
This sounds like – and delivers – a light and enjoyable story, but there is more to Esme’s life that just the fluffy stuff. This is a really good read.
In the space of three days, Esme goes from executing a carefully planned romantic evening designed to prompt her boyfriend of seven years to propose, to moving in to a house share with four men – friends of her brother, no less. Having discovered that Andrew has cheated on her she does what any decent woman would and dumps him. That’s not to say she isn’t hurt and we follow her life as she struggles to hold it all together.
Her new housemates have their own histories and secrets abound. Finding out about each character is captivating and holds more than a few surprises. This story doesn’t always take the most obvious route and the result is a very engaging read, and one which is hard to put down. It’s fun to see how Esme’s new house share works out and I love that her housemates are modern, domesticated men.
This is a wonderful novel, well written and the calendar is central to the tale – if only we could all really purchase this for our friends who need it! Erin Green never fails to deliver and this is a darn good read!
My thanks to publishers Aria for approving my copy via NetGalley. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
In the space of three days, Esme goes from executing a carefully planned romantic evening designed to prompt her boyfriend of seven years to propose, to moving in to a house share with four men – friends of her brother, no less. Having discovered that Andrew has cheated on her she does what any decent woman would and dumps him. That’s not to say she isn’t hurt and we follow her life as she struggles to hold it all together.
Her new housemates have their own histories and secrets abound. Finding out about each character is captivating and holds more than a few surprises. This story doesn’t always take the most obvious route and the result is a very engaging read, and one which is hard to put down. It’s fun to see how Esme’s new house share works out and I love that her housemates are modern, domesticated men.
This is a wonderful novel, well written and the calendar is central to the tale – if only we could all really purchase this for our friends who need it! Erin Green never fails to deliver and this is a darn good read!
My thanks to publishers Aria for approving my copy via NetGalley. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
April 24, 2018
Such a cute book if you’re looking for something light and one that might put a smile on your face. Esme has her life planned out: get engaged to her boyfriend of 7 years, have a beautiful wedding, and start a family. She knows this is what will make her happy but when something unexpected happens, it throws all her plans out the window. Suddenly she’s single and living somewhere that she never imagined. To help her, her friend, Carys, buys her a calendar that has a different task for everyday for a month. Esme is soon stepping out of her comfort zone and seeing life differently with the help of new friends. I enjoyed this for the most part. I loved the concept and the characters. I did feel that Esme didn’t grow as a character. She was doing what was expected but didn’t really learn for her experiences. Then the ending took a surprise twist which really proved that she didn’t learn anything! So the last few chapters were a let down for me. I expected Esme to be better at that point but, sadly, she wasn’t. Overall, an enjoyable read.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2018
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the Publishers Aria for this review copy, given in exchange for an honest review. Also thank you to Melanie from Aria for organising and giving me the opportunity to be part of the Blog Tour.
My first Erin Green book, and what a delightful book it was! The first thing that caught my attention was the fact that it was based in Birmingham. Almost straight away, I was reading about places that I have been to many times, living just outside the Birmingham area. It was great to hear of places such as Broad Street, Symphony Hall, Victoria Square and Edgbaston. Straight away, I connected myself to the story and the characters and as I was reading it I could hear the characters talking in their Brummie accent!
The book begins with Esme, a nearly 30 year old stationery clerk who just wants to settle down with her boyfriend, Andrew, after 7 years of being with him. She plans a romantic evening in the hope that he will eventually take the hint and propose. Unfortunately, it doesn’t quite happen like that after Esme finds an earring in her bed, which isn’t hers. Packing her bags and leaving him, she moves into a shared house with four male housemates. Her best friend gives her a challenge of completing The Single Girls Handbook, a calendar which has a different task every day to overcome heartache.
This was a lovely inspiring book. I laughed my way through the first half of the book and reached for the tissues for the second. When I started to read it, I did think it was going to be a laugh-a-minute romantic comedy book, but whilst it had a lot of funny moments, there was a point when it changed into a life inspiring, thoughtful and romantic story. The characters were all likeable (yes, even Jonah!) but my favourite had to be Asa. His story goes to show that you shouldn’t judge a peacock by his feathers!
A wonderful book! Very enjoyable and highly recommended!
My first Erin Green book, and what a delightful book it was! The first thing that caught my attention was the fact that it was based in Birmingham. Almost straight away, I was reading about places that I have been to many times, living just outside the Birmingham area. It was great to hear of places such as Broad Street, Symphony Hall, Victoria Square and Edgbaston. Straight away, I connected myself to the story and the characters and as I was reading it I could hear the characters talking in their Brummie accent!
The book begins with Esme, a nearly 30 year old stationery clerk who just wants to settle down with her boyfriend, Andrew, after 7 years of being with him. She plans a romantic evening in the hope that he will eventually take the hint and propose. Unfortunately, it doesn’t quite happen like that after Esme finds an earring in her bed, which isn’t hers. Packing her bags and leaving him, she moves into a shared house with four male housemates. Her best friend gives her a challenge of completing The Single Girls Handbook, a calendar which has a different task every day to overcome heartache.
This was a lovely inspiring book. I laughed my way through the first half of the book and reached for the tissues for the second. When I started to read it, I did think it was going to be a laugh-a-minute romantic comedy book, but whilst it had a lot of funny moments, there was a point when it changed into a life inspiring, thoughtful and romantic story. The characters were all likeable (yes, even Jonah!) but my favourite had to be Asa. His story goes to show that you shouldn’t judge a peacock by his feathers!
A wonderful book! Very enjoyable and highly recommended!
December 15, 2017
The Single Girls Calendar by Erin Green a funny and sweet read to while away the day with. Erin Green is a great author, she is funny, witty and honest about life and I will definitely be looking at this author again in the future. The whole premise of the calendar intrigued me a calendar that gave you a task to complete every day to get your mind off your break up, after all when you have been part of a couple for so long that you become a part of a whole rather than a whole person yourself it’s difficult to rectify the situation and I think the calendar premise is a good idea. I could understand where Esme was coming from as a character she wasn’t always likable but who is all of the time, I kind of liked that about her.
There are lots of people and stories in this book so if like me you read while doing something else it could get a little confusing but I ended up ignoring everything else and just focusing on the book to get it all in, it was that good. I’m so glad I picked this book up, I was in two minds as I seem to have read a few books about single women in the thirty’s but this brought a whole new flow and story to it making it well worth the time to read.
There are lots of people and stories in this book so if like me you read while doing something else it could get a little confusing but I ended up ignoring everything else and just focusing on the book to get it all in, it was that good. I’m so glad I picked this book up, I was in two minds as I seem to have read a few books about single women in the thirty’s but this brought a whole new flow and story to it making it well worth the time to read.
January 1, 2018
Esme comes home from work early on the eve of her seventh anniversary (of dating) with her boyfriend Andrew. She has decided that tonight is the night that he is going to propose so she sets the scene with candles, a romantic dinner of his favourite foods a daring negligee and brand new sheets on the bed. Unfortunately, whilst making the bed with the new sheets she finds a very distinctive earring WHICH DOES NOT BELONG TO HER.
Her friend buys her the single girl's calendar, which is a bit like an advent calendar - 31 days of miniature chocolates and a task behind each door. Day 1 is get a new haircut, day 2 is step out of your comfort zone etc. Soon Esme is sharing a house with four of her brother's friends (Dam, Asa, Jonah and Russ) and doing things she's never dreamed of before. But the housemates share more than just a bathroom, soon there are secrets and Esme is left trying to unravel just what is going on.
This is a difficult review to write. I liked the story, but I didn't really like the characters. Andrew was a caricature, Esme's brother Kane was unpleasant, Esme herself was a bit pathetic and needed a backbone, Jonah was a narcissist, Russ was just nothing, Dam was a stereotype Asian characters with no real role, and Asa was a sanctimonious prig with a facial tattoo.
Trying not to be spoilery, I just didn't 'get' the joke about Crystal, nor did I ever understand who she had visited in the flat. I saw no reason why any of the guys would ever like Esme, she was a bit of a drip who spent most of the book crying as far as I could see and she was like a broken record with Asa: no matter what he did or said she just kept assuming he was a deadbeat loser who liked heavy metal because he had a facial tattoo.
The ending just didn't really fit the plot, I just didn't understand why anyone did what they did, it seemed like a ridiculous plot device inserted 'just because'.
Final gripe, the tenses and POV slipped EVERYWHERE.
I did consider giving this book less stars but overall it was a quick, enjoyable read, if the author sorted out the jarring grammatical points and gave the characters some likeable features it would easily rate another couple of stars for me. Bonus points for being set in Birmingham although the references were few and far between, not a Brummie accent in sight.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Her friend buys her the single girl's calendar, which is a bit like an advent calendar - 31 days of miniature chocolates and a task behind each door. Day 1 is get a new haircut, day 2 is step out of your comfort zone etc. Soon Esme is sharing a house with four of her brother's friends (Dam, Asa, Jonah and Russ) and doing things she's never dreamed of before. But the housemates share more than just a bathroom, soon there are secrets and Esme is left trying to unravel just what is going on.
This is a difficult review to write. I liked the story, but I didn't really like the characters. Andrew was a caricature, Esme's brother Kane was unpleasant, Esme herself was a bit pathetic and needed a backbone, Jonah was a narcissist, Russ was just nothing, Dam was a stereotype Asian characters with no real role, and Asa was a sanctimonious prig with a facial tattoo.
Trying not to be spoilery, I just didn't 'get' the joke about Crystal, nor did I ever understand who she had visited in the flat. I saw no reason why any of the guys would ever like Esme, she was a bit of a drip who spent most of the book crying as far as I could see and she was like a broken record with Asa: no matter what he did or said she just kept assuming he was a deadbeat loser who liked heavy metal because he had a facial tattoo.
The ending just didn't really fit the plot, I just didn't understand why anyone did what they did, it seemed like a ridiculous plot device inserted 'just because'.
Final gripe, the tenses and POV slipped EVERYWHERE.
Would it be too cheeky to ask the trainee broom handler for her hair clippings in a doggie bag? Instead, she watched as they are swept into the corner...And
...she had a quick drink with Carys and considered the possibility of matchmaking. What more could I ask for?I found it very distracting.
I did consider giving this book less stars but overall it was a quick, enjoyable read, if the author sorted out the jarring grammatical points and gave the characters some likeable features it would easily rate another couple of stars for me. Bonus points for being set in Birmingham although the references were few and far between, not a Brummie accent in sight.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
August 21, 2018
The tenses are all over the sodding place! Same with the POV s.
Has anyone edited this? I have NO idea who the MC is meant to be.
Dnf at 15% when Esme lusts over Jonah (smile, perfect skin, charisma, charm). Jonah has the personality of a warthog. He has already interrupted Esme to tell her, in no uncertain terms that her job (in advertising) is...
"Blar, blar, blar,... bloody advertising, it doesnt get you anywhere nowadays...networking with thr big boys is the answer."
At that point I would have slapped his insolent (perfect) face and thrown my drink in his lap, but no, Esme (who HAS to be in her late twenties at least) 'lost track of time listening to Jonah talk about his modelling career, his desire to be signed by a leading agency and his pursuit of high quality shots for his portfolio.' euw.
Good god woman - are you a lovesick teenager? No? Well stop behaving like one. (oh... and isn't it 'Blah, blah, blah'?)
The writing is stilted and clunky. The characters are so 1-dimensional they could slide under a door. Esme apparently works for Stylo Stationery, selling advertising space??? Really? And then she says she sells sticky-backed plastic and her job is stationery. That makes no sense at all. Stationery isn't the same as advertising (is it??)
I gave up when my brain began to hurt from trying to cope with the leaping tenses:
When you wake up each morning beside the one you love, money counted for nothing.
....
All Esme had to do was change the sheets before diving into a steaming shower to spend as long as she wished pampering herself knowing that fresh sheets were awaiting them.
There's only so much I can do to encourage him.
This needs serious proofreading and editing.
I dnf'd, with a sense of relief that Esme's cheating boyfriend had managed to escape her clutches.
Has anyone edited this? I have NO idea who the MC is meant to be.
Dnf at 15% when Esme lusts over Jonah (smile, perfect skin, charisma, charm). Jonah has the personality of a warthog. He has already interrupted Esme to tell her, in no uncertain terms that her job (in advertising) is...
"Blar, blar, blar,... bloody advertising, it doesnt get you anywhere nowadays...networking with thr big boys is the answer."
At that point I would have slapped his insolent (perfect) face and thrown my drink in his lap, but no, Esme (who HAS to be in her late twenties at least) 'lost track of time listening to Jonah talk about his modelling career, his desire to be signed by a leading agency and his pursuit of high quality shots for his portfolio.' euw.
Good god woman - are you a lovesick teenager? No? Well stop behaving like one. (oh... and isn't it 'Blah, blah, blah'?)
The writing is stilted and clunky. The characters are so 1-dimensional they could slide under a door. Esme apparently works for Stylo Stationery, selling advertising space??? Really? And then she says she sells sticky-backed plastic and her job is stationery. That makes no sense at all. Stationery isn't the same as advertising (is it??)
I gave up when my brain began to hurt from trying to cope with the leaping tenses:
When you wake up each morning beside the one you love, money counted for nothing.
....
All Esme had to do was change the sheets before diving into a steaming shower to spend as long as she wished pampering herself knowing that fresh sheets were awaiting them.
There's only so much I can do to encourage him.
This needs serious proofreading and editing.
I dnf'd, with a sense of relief that Esme's cheating boyfriend had managed to escape her clutches.
January 11, 2018
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I have now read both books written by this author and they have both been really well planned books and you can see the story has been thought through - I really liked the idea and concept behind this one of a task a day to cure a broken heart following the breakdown of a relationship!
The books starts off with the breakdown of a relationship, not the happiest of starts but it does get better from there and I really sympathised at times with Esme, and if I am honest, at other times I felt like she needed a bit of a shake and a wake up call! I enjoyed the male characters in the flat share and the lovely little old lady from next door too!
4 stars from me for this one- looking forward to reading more from this author in the future and another positive start to my reading for 2018!
I have now read both books written by this author and they have both been really well planned books and you can see the story has been thought through - I really liked the idea and concept behind this one of a task a day to cure a broken heart following the breakdown of a relationship!
The books starts off with the breakdown of a relationship, not the happiest of starts but it does get better from there and I really sympathised at times with Esme, and if I am honest, at other times I felt like she needed a bit of a shake and a wake up call! I enjoyed the male characters in the flat share and the lovely little old lady from next door too!
4 stars from me for this one- looking forward to reading more from this author in the future and another positive start to my reading for 2018!
December 15, 2017
I received a copy of The Single Girl's Calendar by Erin Green from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was intrigued by the summary and I am happy to report that the book did not disappoint. Yes, the plot was a little predictable and the lead character made me want to throw my hands up at times, but it was a fun read - and a quick read. A great rom-com to unwind with!
I was intrigued by the summary and I am happy to report that the book did not disappoint. Yes, the plot was a little predictable and the lead character made me want to throw my hands up at times, but it was a fun read - and a quick read. A great rom-com to unwind with!
December 17, 2017
This was a fun read! Esme' may be a bit addicted to her routine and her long-range plans, but when she finds another woman's earring in her bed she does not hesitate to walk out that door and move on.
As fate steps in along with the calendar, she finds herself trying her hardest to stick with the daily activities and step outside of her comfort zone.
I don't think there was a character in this lovely tale that I did not like! They were each so unique and each added something to Esme's new-found confidence.
Call it Chick Lit, call it Fluff, it put a smile on my face the entire time I read it!
Thanks to Aria/Netgalley Release date is January 1st
As fate steps in along with the calendar, she finds herself trying her hardest to stick with the daily activities and step outside of her comfort zone.
I don't think there was a character in this lovely tale that I did not like! They were each so unique and each added something to Esme's new-found confidence.
Call it Chick Lit, call it Fluff, it put a smile on my face the entire time I read it!
Thanks to Aria/Netgalley Release date is January 1st
December 15, 2017
This was a pleasant little read, a bit of chick-lit to escape into and while away some time, but I couldn't help getting annoyed by Esme just a little bit too much. She dithers and dallies, places too much stock in a traditional happily-ever-after and for a while I despaired of her ever really maturing and seeing the light. The men in her life weren't much better, most of them too typecast for my taste. A twist here and there and one decent man made it a worthy read though, and I enjoyed it in the end.
January 7, 2018
Well that's a bugger, starting off 2018 with a 2 star! Hopefully my next one will be more entertaining. I don't even have the energy to rant about it and there's plenty to rant. The first half was pretty sweet even though the characters continuously overreacted and acted immaturely however the last third in particular, the "big secret" which was guessed practically by chapter 5 was just ridiculously handled by people supposedly in their 30's? Like seriously? It's 2018! The main character was just spineless by the end, never made a decision of her own, showed zero growth and was just a complete dope! Oh look I'm ranting and I said I wouldn't. Must be the hangover, anyway just nope!
January 11, 2018
The Blurb :
A task a day to cure a broken heart.
Esmé Peel is approaching thirty with some trepidation, but hope in her heart. If she can just get her long-term boyfriend Andrew to propose, she will have ticked everything off her 'things to do by the time you're 30' list. She didn't reckon on finding another woman's earring in her bed however, and soon she finds herself single, homeless and in need of a new plan. Her best friend Carys gives her the perfect present – The Single Girl’s Calendar – which has a different cure for heartbreak every day:
Day 1: Look and feel fabulous with a new hair style.
Day 2: Step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
Day 3: Reconnect with friends and enjoy!
Despite thinking it's a bit of a gimmick, Esmé hasn't got any better ideas, so she puts the plan into action. By the end of week one she has four new male housemates, and despite a broken heart she is determined to show Andrew she can do more than survive, she can thrive.
My Thoughts :
This was the first book that I had read by Erin Green. I do have a copy of her first book A Christmas Wish, but I have not yet read it.
After reading the blurb of this book, I knew it was going to be a great storyline.
We meet Esme Peel, Emse’s life gets turned upside down when she finds her boyfriend Andrew has been cheating on her. With the help of her family and best friend Carys, she is given a single girls calender which gives her a different task to do every day and help her get over the breakup and try to turn her life around.
This story will go on to entertain you with its wonderful array of charactors, especially the male ones in the flat share.
At times Esme could be annoying and I just wanted to shake her but overall this is was great read that will warm your heart and also have you laughing out loud in parts. Looking forward to more from Erin Green in the future.
January 18, 2018
Let's start with the title of this book. The Single Girl's Calendar. It sounded fun to me and I wasn't mistaken as I read the synopsis. A breakup, and how one friend helped another get through it. Sounds simple, right? Be prepared for a rollercoaster ride of a book!
Esmé is devastated after her breakup with her boyfriend. Cue The Single Girl's Calendar. An innocent gift bought for her by a friend from a discount bookshop. The calendar is basically an advent calendar with an original twist. Yes, it has little doors you open every day. Yes, it has chocolate. The experiences it gives Esmé are a different challenge or task every day. Day 1: what better way to start trying to get over a breakup than by pampering yourself? Esmeé starts with a new look in the form of a new haircut.
She tries to find solace in family and her parents' home. She realises her own space is needed if she's ever going to heal, so when the space her brother was meant to fill at a shared apartment is left empty, she snaps it up. The apartment is full of guys and each and every one has a different personality. The atmosphere and dynamic within the apartment is realistic to me, as someone who shared a fair few apartments in my lifetime so far.
The book is really "feel-good reading," but also has its more serious moments, like Esmé's worry over trying to find somewhere to live and taking that first step in moving her life forward. It's a story of new beginnings, hope overcoming adversity and friendship. I love it-every minute is entertaining and the idea for the plot of the book is so unlike anything else. It had me going "wow" all the way through and I was laughing one minute, smiling the next, sometimes worried for her, but I was cheering Esmé on all the way.
This is the first ever book I have had the pleasure of reading by Erin Green and thanks to her and Aria for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I think I've just found a new favorite author in Erin Green! I cannot wait to read A Christmas Wish next.
Esmé is devastated after her breakup with her boyfriend. Cue The Single Girl's Calendar. An innocent gift bought for her by a friend from a discount bookshop. The calendar is basically an advent calendar with an original twist. Yes, it has little doors you open every day. Yes, it has chocolate. The experiences it gives Esmé are a different challenge or task every day. Day 1: what better way to start trying to get over a breakup than by pampering yourself? Esmeé starts with a new look in the form of a new haircut.
She tries to find solace in family and her parents' home. She realises her own space is needed if she's ever going to heal, so when the space her brother was meant to fill at a shared apartment is left empty, she snaps it up. The apartment is full of guys and each and every one has a different personality. The atmosphere and dynamic within the apartment is realistic to me, as someone who shared a fair few apartments in my lifetime so far.
The book is really "feel-good reading," but also has its more serious moments, like Esmé's worry over trying to find somewhere to live and taking that first step in moving her life forward. It's a story of new beginnings, hope overcoming adversity and friendship. I love it-every minute is entertaining and the idea for the plot of the book is so unlike anything else. It had me going "wow" all the way through and I was laughing one minute, smiling the next, sometimes worried for her, but I was cheering Esmé on all the way.
This is the first ever book I have had the pleasure of reading by Erin Green and thanks to her and Aria for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I think I've just found a new favorite author in Erin Green! I cannot wait to read A Christmas Wish next.
December 28, 2017
Okay so I finished this books a couple of days ago and I have really struggled to force myself to sit down and write this review. Usually there are many reasons as to why this might be, I generally don't have the time, I'm procrastinating, I'm to busy reading my next book, but for this one it's because I generally have had a hard time deciding how I feel about the book.
It starts of exactly how the blurb promises, Esme full of hope that her long time partner would propose is instead met with the stark reality of a cheating not even finance to be. This being one hell of a deal breaker she leaves and desperately tries to scramble to sort out her life. With a calendar giving her a task a day she is well on her way to finding some sort of order in the chaos.
So I will start with everything that I liked about the book, it was a great little beach and wine kind of read, the nice easy relaxing sort of read which is great for holidays and relaxing. There wasn't to much indecision with the character as she knew she had to make a change and she went ahead, took the opportunities that were presented to her and just really went for it. The book took a few unexpected turns which to be honest I wasn't really expecting and there was a few side stories going on to break up the book a little bit. All was going well till about half way through.
The second half of the book I lost it a little bit with Esme, the decisions become a tad more erratic, character development seems to slow and I just couldn't get behind everything that was going on, but I was definitely still invested and I really wanted to see her get her happy ending. The ending I did not like. At all. It felt like it was going backwards, some of the 'twists' genuinely annoyed me and it really tainted how I felt about the entire book. I can see why the author chose to take the story in that particular direction, I just didn't like it. It took a bit of debate for me to decide how I wanted to rate it at all but overall I think it does deserve a solid 3/5 despite the ending. Saying that I did enjoy the writing style and at points it did surpass much of my expectations. Not one I will read again but it hasn't put be of trying more of the authors work.
Thank You to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
It starts of exactly how the blurb promises, Esme full of hope that her long time partner would propose is instead met with the stark reality of a cheating not even finance to be. This being one hell of a deal breaker she leaves and desperately tries to scramble to sort out her life. With a calendar giving her a task a day she is well on her way to finding some sort of order in the chaos.
So I will start with everything that I liked about the book, it was a great little beach and wine kind of read, the nice easy relaxing sort of read which is great for holidays and relaxing. There wasn't to much indecision with the character as she knew she had to make a change and she went ahead, took the opportunities that were presented to her and just really went for it. The book took a few unexpected turns which to be honest I wasn't really expecting and there was a few side stories going on to break up the book a little bit. All was going well till about half way through.
The second half of the book I lost it a little bit with Esme, the decisions become a tad more erratic, character development seems to slow and I just couldn't get behind everything that was going on, but I was definitely still invested and I really wanted to see her get her happy ending. The ending I did not like. At all. It felt like it was going backwards, some of the 'twists' genuinely annoyed me and it really tainted how I felt about the entire book. I can see why the author chose to take the story in that particular direction, I just didn't like it. It took a bit of debate for me to decide how I wanted to rate it at all but overall I think it does deserve a solid 3/5 despite the ending. Saying that I did enjoy the writing style and at points it did surpass much of my expectations. Not one I will read again but it hasn't put be of trying more of the authors work.
Thank You to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Esme has her own plan in life - get married, have children, and settle down. As far as she is concerned, anything other than those three means she has failed. Yes, I know, you're probably sitting there rolling your eyes. I have to admit, I did think that Esme was a little high maintenance to begin with - it took me a little while to see the character for who she truly was underneath all of the military planning bravado. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with having a plan in life - especially where your relationship is concerned. However, if the other person in the relationship doesn't seem to be on the same page as you, you can't really claim that you have failed when it wasn't actually YOU. Whilst I appreciate that it is incredibly easy for me to say that, trying to convince Esme of that fact was a whole other ball game. So much so, her best friend gives her a gift that will either give her a well needed kick up the backside, or would give her a reason to hide herself underneath her duvet for the immediate future.
I thought the whole premise of the 'single girl's calendar' was absolute genius. It was the thing which made the real Esme shine bright like a diamond, instead of coming across like a spoilt princess. I preferred the real Esme as she was a lot more relatable than the one we met at first. There were times where I thought Esme was off her rocker with the rash decisions she made, but in a weird way, I guess part of me found it be quite endearing. At least she was trying to fix her life, right?
'The Single Girl's' calendar pleasantly surprised me! I thoroughly enjoyed this laugh out loud, relatable, heart-warming and addictive novel. It made me realise that if things don't end up going to plan in your life, just put on your big girl pants and own the change like the diamond that you are. Well, until shops decide to sell a real life 'single girl's' or 'time to sort your life out' calendar!
Definitely a fun-filled, memorable new novel from author Erin Green.
Esme has her own plan in life - get married, have children, and settle down. As far as she is concerned, anything other than those three means she has failed. Yes, I know, you're probably sitting there rolling your eyes. I have to admit, I did think that Esme was a little high maintenance to begin with - it took me a little while to see the character for who she truly was underneath all of the military planning bravado. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with having a plan in life - especially where your relationship is concerned. However, if the other person in the relationship doesn't seem to be on the same page as you, you can't really claim that you have failed when it wasn't actually YOU. Whilst I appreciate that it is incredibly easy for me to say that, trying to convince Esme of that fact was a whole other ball game. So much so, her best friend gives her a gift that will either give her a well needed kick up the backside, or would give her a reason to hide herself underneath her duvet for the immediate future.
I thought the whole premise of the 'single girl's calendar' was absolute genius. It was the thing which made the real Esme shine bright like a diamond, instead of coming across like a spoilt princess. I preferred the real Esme as she was a lot more relatable than the one we met at first. There were times where I thought Esme was off her rocker with the rash decisions she made, but in a weird way, I guess part of me found it be quite endearing. At least she was trying to fix her life, right?
'The Single Girl's' calendar pleasantly surprised me! I thoroughly enjoyed this laugh out loud, relatable, heart-warming and addictive novel. It made me realise that if things don't end up going to plan in your life, just put on your big girl pants and own the change like the diamond that you are. Well, until shops decide to sell a real life 'single girl's' or 'time to sort your life out' calendar!
Definitely a fun-filled, memorable new novel from author Erin Green.
January 14, 2018
This is a wonderful idea for a novel and I enjoyed every page. Esme has a task a day to complete in an attempt to mend her broken heart. However, her biggest challenge is in fact rediscovering who she is and what she really wants from life - not what she thinks life expects from her.
The characters are engaging (I am rather a fan of Asa) and the writing leaves you wanting to read more and more. I could not wait to find out what was going to happen next as Esme probably has the most exciting month of her life despite its rocky start.
I can not recommend this book enough - so pick it up and give it a go. ❤
The characters are engaging (I am rather a fan of Asa) and the writing leaves you wanting to read more and more. I could not wait to find out what was going to happen next as Esme probably has the most exciting month of her life despite its rocky start.
I can not recommend this book enough - so pick it up and give it a go. ❤
February 23, 2018
I loved this book. I am going to start off my review explaining my criteria for a 5 star book. Sometimes it's the writing, sometimes it's the emotions of a storyline, sometimes it's the comedy and HEA and sometimes it's the characters. This book falls in the last category - there was only a single character that was consistent throughout the book and the one you wished you read more of, it was Asa.
I will not say that this book was not without its flaws - there was a certain dip in character moments, the twist was not twist-y enough and the ending felt a little rushed after all the build-up, but what was brilliant was Asa's character assessment of Esme every step of the way, up until the last chapter.
Esme's friendships weren't fully formed. I kept thinking she will have a stronger girl-bonding with them but they all came across as acquaintances than BFFs. She seemed to have a lot more camaraderie with her housemates and her brother. Her family is almost non-existent except for her brother and they surface towards the end and seemed to make a HUGE decision for her which felt out of the blue - again I can't describe the scene without giving away what happens but it went to show how quickly Asa read her within just one month of knowing her; better than all the people who knew her all her life.
Any behaviour of hers that was erratic or her desire to please others, it's Asa's perceptiveness that helps see Esme for what she is. He never failed to call her out when she does something out of her character. I like such honesty. Her so called simple dreams were the catalyst of this book (that in an another chick-lit wouldn't have been accepted as being feminist enough) but I know of such women, who do indeed want to just fall in love, get married and have a family and I am not gonna judge Esme for that. She calls him an 'arse' enough times to know she's not going to take his quips lying low either. Still his understanding of her moods shone throughout and I am sucker for characters with good hearts rather than great looks and sexual chemistry.
I am definitely not a tattoo person, and Asa might have just changed me enough to wonder it's not always a style statement, but of carrying a burden and a past. His job and past were emotional without being manipulative. This is one of the books where the male character comes across as more giving/loving than the female, and Esme never seemed too sure of what she felt except when she learns to live a little dream..
Wonderful book and I would love to read more from this author
I will not say that this book was not without its flaws - there was a certain dip in character moments, the twist was not twist-y enough and the ending felt a little rushed after all the build-up, but what was brilliant was Asa's character assessment of Esme every step of the way, up until the last chapter.
Esme's friendships weren't fully formed. I kept thinking she will have a stronger girl-bonding with them but they all came across as acquaintances than BFFs. She seemed to have a lot more camaraderie with her housemates and her brother. Her family is almost non-existent except for her brother and they surface towards the end and seemed to make a HUGE decision for her which felt out of the blue - again I can't describe the scene without giving away what happens but it went to show how quickly Asa read her within just one month of knowing her; better than all the people who knew her all her life.
Any behaviour of hers that was erratic or her desire to please others, it's Asa's perceptiveness that helps see Esme for what she is. He never failed to call her out when she does something out of her character. I like such honesty. Her so called simple dreams were the catalyst of this book (that in an another chick-lit wouldn't have been accepted as being feminist enough) but I know of such women, who do indeed want to just fall in love, get married and have a family and I am not gonna judge Esme for that. She calls him an 'arse' enough times to know she's not going to take his quips lying low either. Still his understanding of her moods shone throughout and I am sucker for characters with good hearts rather than great looks and sexual chemistry.
I am definitely not a tattoo person, and Asa might have just changed me enough to wonder it's not always a style statement, but of carrying a burden and a past. His job and past were emotional without being manipulative. This is one of the books where the male character comes across as more giving/loving than the female, and Esme never seemed too sure of what she felt except when she learns to live a little dream..
Wonderful book and I would love to read more from this author
January 1, 2018
The Single Girl's Calendar by Erin Green is a great 4 star book that you can really get caught up in.
Erin Green is a new author to me but after reading this great book I will be definitely be looking for others by her.
The concept of this book is brilliant.
Esme Peel's life gets turned upside down by no fault of her own and her best friend Carys gives her the single girls calender to do every day and help her mend herself.
What unfolds is an entertaining and sometimes hilarious read that will keep you turning those kindle pages right up to the last page.
This story has everything you could possibly want from a good Rom com.
One minute I was laughing and the next one I was shedding a tear.
This story is a story of not judging a book by the cover as beauty and the beast could be wrapped up in one package.
It shows you to follow your heart and do things for you not other people.
If you can only make one person happy make sure that person is you as you have to live with yourself every minute of the day.
I'm so happy with how Esme's story turned out as I was routing for that conclusion.
I really enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend you one click it as soon as you can.
I'm voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book given to me by Netgalley.
Erin Green is a new author to me but after reading this great book I will be definitely be looking for others by her.
The concept of this book is brilliant.
Esme Peel's life gets turned upside down by no fault of her own and her best friend Carys gives her the single girls calender to do every day and help her mend herself.
What unfolds is an entertaining and sometimes hilarious read that will keep you turning those kindle pages right up to the last page.
This story has everything you could possibly want from a good Rom com.
One minute I was laughing and the next one I was shedding a tear.
This story is a story of not judging a book by the cover as beauty and the beast could be wrapped up in one package.
It shows you to follow your heart and do things for you not other people.
If you can only make one person happy make sure that person is you as you have to live with yourself every minute of the day.
I'm so happy with how Esme's story turned out as I was routing for that conclusion.
I really enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend you one click it as soon as you can.
I'm voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book given to me by Netgalley.
December 23, 2017
This isn't meant to be taken too seriously- it's an escapist and frankly entertaining diversion about a woman who invested too much in a rat and who is now trying to find her way back to happy. Esme does seem to whine but wouldn't you if your beau of 7 years turns out to be a bad guy? The single girl's calendar gives her something to divert her mind. It's not a new concept but it's well done here. Green has a good sense of humor and she's written some entirely believable characters. If they sometimes seem a bit stock, well, that's ok too because this is a light read perfect for travel or the beach or when you just need a light one. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
March 10, 2018
I loved this book; I can't believe how quickly I read it despite it's weighty 580 page length. I loved the whole dynamic of the characters and with a huge dose of testosterone, it made it something a little bit different in the chick lit genre.
Esmé is ready for the next stage in her life, she just has to set the scene and Andrew, her boyfriend of 7 years is sure to propose. So she books the day off, puts the champagne on ice, orders a lovely meal to be delivered, lights the candles and changes the bedclothes...only to find an earring in her bed that isn't hers. Her dream night turns into a nightmare when she confronts Andrew and he admits to cheating on her. I was so mad for Esmé at first as she has done everything for Andrew, always thinking of him first and perhaps that was her big mistake as she forgot who she really was. It was like she didn't have a mind of her own anymore; she was Esmé of Andrew and Esmé and I got mad at her for letting that happen. I then reminded myself that the girl is heartbroken and her dreams have been smashed into smithereens so I cut her some slack.
I loved the idea of a Single Girl's Calendar that Carys gives to Esmé. It's kind of like an advent calendar (even complete with a little chocolate behind each door) setting a task for the day to perhaps push you out of your comfort zone but ultimately to prevent you sitting at home and wallowing in your own self-pity. Hey, we've all been there! Esmé certainly steps out of her comfort zone when she takes her brother's place in a house-share and finds herself living with four of her brother's friends. A brilliant way to get over a break-up, I say!
The guys all have their individual quirks and characteristics and Esmé's heart goes pitter patter when she encounters Jonah, her high school crush. Unfortunately, Jonah loves himself more than he'll ever love a woman but Esmé only see's the outside shell, not what is inside. I don't think Esmé's shallow, just that she loves with her eyes rather than her heart; this is evident when she meets fellow housemate, Asa. Now this guy couldn't have a bigger heart but his tattooed appearance and sharp tongue give the wrong impression to people who can't see beyond that. Esmé is guilty of judging a book by its cover and Asa thinks she is jumping from one thing to another trying to be liked but he doesn't know about the tasks in the calendar. Will Esmé ever be able to see the person beneath the painted skin or will she not be able to resist when all her dreams are gift wrapped and handed to her on a plate?
What a brilliant story! I loved Esmé's interactions with the four guys and they each had a little story going on themselves. There is lots to think about too: how appearances can be deceptive yet we continually say that first impressions count. It's quite sobering to think that I would have jumped to the same conclusions as Esmé and to all the Asa's out there, I apologise wholeheartedly.
I laughed, cried and learnt a little bit about myself whilst reading The Single Girl’s Calendar and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to one and all. Deep, thought-provoking chick lit doesn't come along too often, so grab this one with both hands.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Esmé is ready for the next stage in her life, she just has to set the scene and Andrew, her boyfriend of 7 years is sure to propose. So she books the day off, puts the champagne on ice, orders a lovely meal to be delivered, lights the candles and changes the bedclothes...only to find an earring in her bed that isn't hers. Her dream night turns into a nightmare when she confronts Andrew and he admits to cheating on her. I was so mad for Esmé at first as she has done everything for Andrew, always thinking of him first and perhaps that was her big mistake as she forgot who she really was. It was like she didn't have a mind of her own anymore; she was Esmé of Andrew and Esmé and I got mad at her for letting that happen. I then reminded myself that the girl is heartbroken and her dreams have been smashed into smithereens so I cut her some slack.
I loved the idea of a Single Girl's Calendar that Carys gives to Esmé. It's kind of like an advent calendar (even complete with a little chocolate behind each door) setting a task for the day to perhaps push you out of your comfort zone but ultimately to prevent you sitting at home and wallowing in your own self-pity. Hey, we've all been there! Esmé certainly steps out of her comfort zone when she takes her brother's place in a house-share and finds herself living with four of her brother's friends. A brilliant way to get over a break-up, I say!
The guys all have their individual quirks and characteristics and Esmé's heart goes pitter patter when she encounters Jonah, her high school crush. Unfortunately, Jonah loves himself more than he'll ever love a woman but Esmé only see's the outside shell, not what is inside. I don't think Esmé's shallow, just that she loves with her eyes rather than her heart; this is evident when she meets fellow housemate, Asa. Now this guy couldn't have a bigger heart but his tattooed appearance and sharp tongue give the wrong impression to people who can't see beyond that. Esmé is guilty of judging a book by its cover and Asa thinks she is jumping from one thing to another trying to be liked but he doesn't know about the tasks in the calendar. Will Esmé ever be able to see the person beneath the painted skin or will she not be able to resist when all her dreams are gift wrapped and handed to her on a plate?
What a brilliant story! I loved Esmé's interactions with the four guys and they each had a little story going on themselves. There is lots to think about too: how appearances can be deceptive yet we continually say that first impressions count. It's quite sobering to think that I would have jumped to the same conclusions as Esmé and to all the Asa's out there, I apologise wholeheartedly.
I laughed, cried and learnt a little bit about myself whilst reading The Single Girl’s Calendar and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to one and all. Deep, thought-provoking chick lit doesn't come along too often, so grab this one with both hands.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
February 21, 2018
Esmé is set for her seven year anniversary with Andrew, convinced that this weekend (as opposed to the 7 years of weekends that came before) is the one where he’ll propose – just in time for a June wedding. She’s constantly dissecting relationships with her friends at work, in fact, they are expecting a celebration come the following Monday all to rehash and talk about each detail. And then, in her massive preparation for the ‘big event’ she discovers an earring in their bed – an earring that isn’t hers. Sure, she goes ballistic and confronts him – the adultery is confirmed, and Esmé leaves with a few belongings and a shattered heart to stay at a city center hotel. A tearful call to her best friend Carys brings her a tiny chocolate filled advent calendar, “The Single Girls Calendar” full of daily tasks and focuses that distract and divert your attention away from the man who was once your focus. Not truly believing, but also not a particularly self-directed person, Esmé starts to follow the tasks.
From changing up a look (haircut and color) to reading childhood favorites, dining alone and making a wish list – the tasks are meant to open the new single’s horizons and give them a sort of busy-work that will, hopefully, help them to redefine their hopes and dreams for the future that has been newly unearthed. Of course, first up on the list is to find somewhere to live: her parent’s spare room beckons, but her older brother and friend are obviously in a spat over Kyle’s inability to come up with the money for a house share – and Esmé jumps in. Now sharing a house with 4 of her brother’s friends, she’s at least got a roof over her head and a place to call her own. Three of the four housemates are known to her: her brother’s friends Russ (engineer), Dam (physicist and lecturer) and Josh (model): Asa is the only one she hasn’t met – and their introduction will involve a fireplace poker and plenty of crossed connections. In fact, every interaction between Esmé and Asa is edgy – his pushing her to discover her own likes and stop following along, her judgmental statements and bit of aimless perseveration lead to some moments that are clever and push her to grow up and make choices rather than just wait for an invitation or a person to tell her what she should think / do / be.
For me, Esmé was difficult to truly enjoy full stop – she was so boxed into the way that she thought things should be, with her ‘shopping list’ for the future and her never-ending way of pushing her beliefs and judgments onto everyone and everything else. There was a smugness about her at first, particularly with her relationship with Andrew, that seemed to defy her even being able to contemplate his cheating –so of course, the universe needed to drop a rock in her plans. What she didn’t see for so very long was that she was a chameleon – changing her wants (or not actually having them) until she saw what way the wind blew – and what would be the decision that most people would want. It took a bit for her to come out of that childish approach to decisions, she wasn’t unaware of being unfulfilled – just a bit tone deaf to it: and while she was drawn to Asa and his caring nature, she wasn’t always able to deal with the tumult he caused for her: a man who is bluntly honest, living each moment as if it is special and important, and prodding, poking and sometimes dragging Esmé along for the ride. She’s stuck and not always aware of the undercurrents around her, and often quick to take a little baby step as proof she’s moved on, changed and is determining her own destiny in a way that will, eventually, open doors to a life that is fulfilled, happy and more than she could dream.
Erin Green has crafted a story with plenty of wonderful secondary characters that often serve to show just how limited Esmé is in her life, and the transformation for her is a slow process, with plenty of backsliding and unearned self-congratulatory moments quickly realigned with her own self-conscious actions or spontaneous decisions that are little more than a half-baked copy of someone else’s conscious and defined decisions. What kept me reading was the honesty in her: her actual moments of self-discovery and quiet reflection that provided the answers that she often was hiding from – this was honest and real: there are times when you can’t see the hand in front of your face until it’s repeatedly waving, and many of the events in this story were simply a waving hand. Easy to read with Green’s conversational, listen to your best friend’s story style, the conversations range from deep to delightfully funny as the 30 days of tasks from The Single Girl’s Calendar push and pull Esmé in directions untested and untried.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
From changing up a look (haircut and color) to reading childhood favorites, dining alone and making a wish list – the tasks are meant to open the new single’s horizons and give them a sort of busy-work that will, hopefully, help them to redefine their hopes and dreams for the future that has been newly unearthed. Of course, first up on the list is to find somewhere to live: her parent’s spare room beckons, but her older brother and friend are obviously in a spat over Kyle’s inability to come up with the money for a house share – and Esmé jumps in. Now sharing a house with 4 of her brother’s friends, she’s at least got a roof over her head and a place to call her own. Three of the four housemates are known to her: her brother’s friends Russ (engineer), Dam (physicist and lecturer) and Josh (model): Asa is the only one she hasn’t met – and their introduction will involve a fireplace poker and plenty of crossed connections. In fact, every interaction between Esmé and Asa is edgy – his pushing her to discover her own likes and stop following along, her judgmental statements and bit of aimless perseveration lead to some moments that are clever and push her to grow up and make choices rather than just wait for an invitation or a person to tell her what she should think / do / be.
For me, Esmé was difficult to truly enjoy full stop – she was so boxed into the way that she thought things should be, with her ‘shopping list’ for the future and her never-ending way of pushing her beliefs and judgments onto everyone and everything else. There was a smugness about her at first, particularly with her relationship with Andrew, that seemed to defy her even being able to contemplate his cheating –so of course, the universe needed to drop a rock in her plans. What she didn’t see for so very long was that she was a chameleon – changing her wants (or not actually having them) until she saw what way the wind blew – and what would be the decision that most people would want. It took a bit for her to come out of that childish approach to decisions, she wasn’t unaware of being unfulfilled – just a bit tone deaf to it: and while she was drawn to Asa and his caring nature, she wasn’t always able to deal with the tumult he caused for her: a man who is bluntly honest, living each moment as if it is special and important, and prodding, poking and sometimes dragging Esmé along for the ride. She’s stuck and not always aware of the undercurrents around her, and often quick to take a little baby step as proof she’s moved on, changed and is determining her own destiny in a way that will, eventually, open doors to a life that is fulfilled, happy and more than she could dream.
Erin Green has crafted a story with plenty of wonderful secondary characters that often serve to show just how limited Esmé is in her life, and the transformation for her is a slow process, with plenty of backsliding and unearned self-congratulatory moments quickly realigned with her own self-conscious actions or spontaneous decisions that are little more than a half-baked copy of someone else’s conscious and defined decisions. What kept me reading was the honesty in her: her actual moments of self-discovery and quiet reflection that provided the answers that she often was hiding from – this was honest and real: there are times when you can’t see the hand in front of your face until it’s repeatedly waving, and many of the events in this story were simply a waving hand. Easy to read with Green’s conversational, listen to your best friend’s story style, the conversations range from deep to delightfully funny as the 30 days of tasks from The Single Girl’s Calendar push and pull Esmé in directions untested and untried.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
January 13, 2018
"The Single Girl's Calendar" is my first book by Erin Green and after reading synopsis I just knew that I want to read this novel. It turned out to be a light - hearted, funny and sometimes poignant book, and I really liked the concept of the Single Girl's Calendar - I was really intrigued what challenges it's going to bring, what tasks are there, awaiting Esme and her new single status.
The book introduced us to many characters. There is Esme, her ex - boyfriend, brother and parents, two work friends, four male housemates, an elderly neighbour from next door... It took me some time to eventually start to differentiate the boys, to be honest, and I could have lived without the neighbour subplot, to be honest. The boys, well, they were a solid part of the book but I've never felt connected to them, even though they became such a great part of Esme's life. Her brother Kane, I'm not sure what it was that he did and why did he spent so much time at the flat? He was mostly unpleasant and rude and well, lazy. Jonah was awfully narcissistic, focused on himself and that was all. Russ... well, I can't say much about Russ, I'm sorry, as well as about Dam who was mostly absent, at his parents. The most interesting and developed character was probably Asa, he was full of secrets and surprises, and he always said things as they were, and I think you need to get used to him because he can also come across as a very, very rude and not direct.
I had a problem with Esme. A huge one. I liked her, don't get me wrong, but there were things that annoyed me so much in her. She acted as she was the centre of the world, as if everything revolved around her. She wanted to know everything and decide about everything. She jumped to conclusions and generally didn't apologize for this. Almost in every single chapter she was happy to talk about herself with other characters and it was gladly reported that it usually took a lot of time - she was obsessed with herself, guys. However, there were also great sides to her. I absolutely loved how she ended her relationship and how consequent she was. I also liked her new friendship with the older neighbour and how well she looked after her. But mostly, unfortunately, I agreed with Asa's assessment for her character - she did what other people thought was best for her, she seemed not to be capable of deciding for herself half of the time.
Each of the characters living with Esme seems to have a secret that Esme shouldn't hear. Why? Oh boy, why? It was really annoying, I guessed all of them but it took Esme a lot of time to discover, because of course she was desperate to know everything. Typical Esme. Nothing about the other without her, even though it was not her business. The book started to feel repetitive, when Esme started to recount to the other characters about everything that happened to her. It started to drag on and I found myself losing my interest a little. The ending seemed much too rushed for my liking and it left me a little confused for a long time, to be honest. I felt a little disappointed with Esme's decisions, and I didn't understand it, it left me feeling the calendar, the tasks taught her nothing.
This book had me torn; flip - flopping guys, even though I can't exactly tell you what it was that bothered me so much. There was just something missing. It was as if the author wanted to put so much into her story and ultimately we got a little of everything but on the whole there were missing elements, missing x- factor. I liked it, don't get me wrong, it was entertaining and it had some really good moments but it just didn't wow me as much as I thought at the beginning it's going to. Because it started really good and then it slowed down and went a little downhill. But altogether, "The Single Girl's Calendar" was a charming, nice read, a great book to unwind with. It was about showing that if things don't end up going to plan then well, just start living differently and perhaps make a new plan or let life surprise you? It was nice, easy and relaxing. There were some unexpected turns and some deeper moments in the story as well. and I am looking towards reading more from Erin Green.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review
January 26, 2018
The Single Girl's Calendar is the second novel by Erin Green. In this story we find Esme' Peel, a young woman who expects that her boyfriend of seven years will propose for their seventh anniversary. What she discovers it a turquoise earring not belonging to her in their bed, thus setting off the chain of events of the story.
Cheating is her deal breaker and she immediately leaves Andrew on the quest to find herself. Her best friend Carys gives her the single girl's calendar, which is to be an aide in surviving her heartbreak and beginning a new chapter in her life. She hangs onto the items in the calendar like a life preserver.
As she does so she makes new friends, leaves the comfort of her employment, and finds herself as a housemate with four very diverse fellows. But she also discovers aspects of her own personality that she is not so proud of. As she grows and changes, she opens herself up to new experiences and, perhaps, a new love.
This is a very well constructed story, one I read voraciously and the only disappointment I found is when I discovered the tale was over. I do enjoy this emerging author and certainly recommend this book
March 4, 2018
Review to follow
July 11, 2019
Fun to read but not “unputdownable”.
January 3, 2018
A kick ass story with some fun, quirky characters. The plot and its characters worked well and made me fall for their antics and quirky. I totally enjoyed and was entertained by Esme's single girl tasks.
December 29, 2017
What a lovely, well written book full of positivity and humour.
The characters were great, especially Esme and my only bugbear would be to say that the ending seemed quite rushed but it was a happy one which I was glad about.
Although Esme's lack of independence annoyed me at first, it was great to see her strengthen up and begin to find her own way with that fabulous calendar which I could do with myself!
I was really surprised at how easy this novel was to read, it flowed smoothly at a great pace and held my interest and sometimes frustration, right until the end.
The characters were great, especially Esme and my only bugbear would be to say that the ending seemed quite rushed but it was a happy one which I was glad about.
Although Esme's lack of independence annoyed me at first, it was great to see her strengthen up and begin to find her own way with that fabulous calendar which I could do with myself!
I was really surprised at how easy this novel was to read, it flowed smoothly at a great pace and held my interest and sometimes frustration, right until the end.
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