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Who Needs Men Anyway?
‘Funny and poignant with a gloriously realistic cast of characters. I followed Charlotte's journey avidly, cheering her on all the way. An unputdownable read.’Rachel Burton, author of The Many Colours of Us
Don’t get mad, get even…
Thirty-something Charlotte’s Emsworth’s life is a sickeningly perfect round of charity events, hot yoga, and romantic gestures for sexy lawyer husband James. But, patiently waiting to get pregnant, Charlotte is bored. And when she’s bored, she has a tendency to meddle…
First, it’s her personal trainer Megan’s cheating fiancé, then the gardener Sam’s wife’s ‘late nights at the office’. But soon the meddling, however well-intentioned, lands Charlotte in way over her head, and all the time spent ‘managing’ other people’s lives makes her blind to the cracks appearing in her own…
Getting even is one thing, but what about getting happy?
Perfect for fans of The First Wives Club…
Don’t get mad, get even…
Thirty-something Charlotte’s Emsworth’s life is a sickeningly perfect round of charity events, hot yoga, and romantic gestures for sexy lawyer husband James. But, patiently waiting to get pregnant, Charlotte is bored. And when she’s bored, she has a tendency to meddle…
First, it’s her personal trainer Megan’s cheating fiancé, then the gardener Sam’s wife’s ‘late nights at the office’. But soon the meddling, however well-intentioned, lands Charlotte in way over her head, and all the time spent ‘managing’ other people’s lives makes her blind to the cracks appearing in her own…
Getting even is one thing, but what about getting happy?
Perfect for fans of The First Wives Club…
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2018
52 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Cooke
13 books128 followersVictoria Cooke grew up in the city of Manchester before crossing the Pennines in pursuit of her career in education. She now lives in Huddersfield with her husband and two young daughters and when she’s not at home writing by the fire with a cup of coffee in her hand, she loves working out in the gym and travelling. Victoria was first published at the tender age of eight by her classroom teacher who saw potential in a six-page story about an invisible man. Since then she’s always had a passion for reading and writing, undertaking several writers’ courses before completing her first romantic comedy novel, 'The Secret to Falling in Love,' in 2016.
Her third novel, Who Needs Men Anyway? became a digital bestseller in 2018.
Her third novel, Who Needs Men Anyway? became a digital bestseller in 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 6, 2018
4☆ A Fun Chick Lit
Who Needs Men Anyway is a story about relationships, Love, meddling, friendship.
It took a little while to get into the story of Who Needs Men Anyway. It's one of those books that the more you read the more the book comes alive. It starts off as a slower paced read.
Charlotte is married to James. Her marriage seems to be going well until the cracks start to show.
But Charlotte has a big heart and like to get involved and help people. Some might say it's meddling. She see it as helping.
Unfortunately for Charlotte things don't always quiet go to plan. With plenty of mishaps.
Charlotte isn't the most likeable character but she does slowly grow on you as you uncover her vulnerable side, her softer side. She generally has a big heart and thinks she's doing right by her friends.
Who Needs Men Anyway is a charming read, it's not entirely true to it's title as I was expecting a story full of single empowered man hating women but it's not the case.
There is plenty of humour, romance, fun, twists, drama, relationships, friendships.
A fun read I really enjoyed.
Thank you to HQ Digital for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Who Needs Men Anyway is a story about relationships, Love, meddling, friendship.
It took a little while to get into the story of Who Needs Men Anyway. It's one of those books that the more you read the more the book comes alive. It starts off as a slower paced read.
Charlotte is married to James. Her marriage seems to be going well until the cracks start to show.
But Charlotte has a big heart and like to get involved and help people. Some might say it's meddling. She see it as helping.
Unfortunately for Charlotte things don't always quiet go to plan. With plenty of mishaps.
Charlotte isn't the most likeable character but she does slowly grow on you as you uncover her vulnerable side, her softer side. She generally has a big heart and thinks she's doing right by her friends.
Who Needs Men Anyway is a charming read, it's not entirely true to it's title as I was expecting a story full of single empowered man hating women but it's not the case.
There is plenty of humour, romance, fun, twists, drama, relationships, friendships.
A fun read I really enjoyed.
Thank you to HQ Digital for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
April 7, 2018
Headline Review: 5 stars ‘The Writing’s on the Wall’!
*claps hands* (side note: no, I’m not a seal, lol - just excited!)
OMG... where to begin?
I’ll admit, I didn’t particularly like Charlotte at the beginning of this story. I found her shallow, and materialistic - enjoying her so-called ‘perfect’ life. Don’t even get me started on all her meddling... But, as we all know, nothing in life is ever perfect *shrugs* And, if we just take the time to scratch the surface of all the pretty, sure enough, we’re bound to find some ugly underneath *frowns*
It’s what we do with that discovery that either makes us or breaks us.
I hate to sound clichéd, but Charlotte goes on a journey in this book. For someone who clings onto control for dear life, events unfold which make her face up to one glaringly obvious fact; control does not equal happy. Life is not a straight road. We have to learn to navigate all its potholes, and the odd diversion route. Where’s a sat-nav when you need one, eh? *snorts*
As the shiny veneer is lifted, we start to see the real Charlotte emerge. And with the help of her friends (her true friends, I may add), she starts to take life by the short and curlies. I have to say I loved her friends. I especially adored Kate aka The Ballbuster #saynomore I felt like an honorary member of their group, lending my own encouragement when needed.
This story was so much more than a rom-com. It had all the drama, laughs, twists, and touch of romance I love in a book.
Life isn’t easy, but we’ll find the sweet when we least expect it.
Second side note: you get extra brownie points if you work out my headline *winks*
Another new-to-me author of 2018, who I look forward to reading more of.
*claps hands* (side note: no, I’m not a seal, lol - just excited!)
OMG... where to begin?
I’ll admit, I didn’t particularly like Charlotte at the beginning of this story. I found her shallow, and materialistic - enjoying her so-called ‘perfect’ life. Don’t even get me started on all her meddling... But, as we all know, nothing in life is ever perfect *shrugs* And, if we just take the time to scratch the surface of all the pretty, sure enough, we’re bound to find some ugly underneath *frowns*
It’s what we do with that discovery that either makes us or breaks us.
I hate to sound clichéd, but Charlotte goes on a journey in this book. For someone who clings onto control for dear life, events unfold which make her face up to one glaringly obvious fact; control does not equal happy. Life is not a straight road. We have to learn to navigate all its potholes, and the odd diversion route. Where’s a sat-nav when you need one, eh? *snorts*
As the shiny veneer is lifted, we start to see the real Charlotte emerge. And with the help of her friends (her true friends, I may add), she starts to take life by the short and curlies. I have to say I loved her friends. I especially adored Kate aka The Ballbuster #saynomore I felt like an honorary member of their group, lending my own encouragement when needed.
This story was so much more than a rom-com. It had all the drama, laughs, twists, and touch of romance I love in a book.
Life isn’t easy, but we’ll find the sweet when we least expect it.
Second side note: you get extra brownie points if you work out my headline *winks*
Another new-to-me author of 2018, who I look forward to reading more of.
March 15, 2018
Well this book saved my mojo! It’s rare I do not persevere with a book, especially a review copy, but I had not one but two titles I DNF’d on last week because I just couldn’t get in to them well and the one before those I didn’t connect well with so I was feeling a barrow of meh and needed uplifting fiction STAT! Thankfully, along came Victoria Cooke and I finally could relax in to an entertaining, addictive narrative that provided all the long-lost feels and character connection I’d been craving.
This is a book about friendships above all else; despite the title maybe leading some to think it’s about “man-hating” actually it is far from this, there are plenty of loveable male characters within this story though it definitely has “independent woman” punch the air moments.
Charlotte, initially, is a bit of a marmite character; comfortable, rich, happily married to James, the smugness kind of oozes out of her and I could see her assumptions and meddling would grate on many people. Of course, life isn’t all it seems and as events unfold you soon bond with Charlotte’s good intentions, kind heart and indeed how lonely she is from the superficial personal connections she has. Yes, she makes mistakes, huge ones, and yet that made her genuine, real and loveable to me. After all, we are all winging it from one lucky break to grave mistake aren’t we?
There are some fantastic varied characters in this story (many of whom I would love to read more about their own back stories) who all contribute comic moments, plot growth, feel good factor and a heartfelt connection. Some characters definitely redeem themselves along the story and others remain villainous, but we all unite to plot their downfall. As it should be! I particularly loved Andrew, and the girl with pigtails, and then Charlotte’s best friend Kate, who is sassy, confident, and very Samantha-from-SATC-esque; most entertaining.
This is a story about Getting Even vs Moving On. How we strive to find true friendships amongst the fake, the true meaning of life amongst materialism and ambition, and the pitfalls of dating, relationships, friendships and careers.
A good book for getting your feel-good mojo back!
This is a book about friendships above all else; despite the title maybe leading some to think it’s about “man-hating” actually it is far from this, there are plenty of loveable male characters within this story though it definitely has “independent woman” punch the air moments.
Charlotte, initially, is a bit of a marmite character; comfortable, rich, happily married to James, the smugness kind of oozes out of her and I could see her assumptions and meddling would grate on many people. Of course, life isn’t all it seems and as events unfold you soon bond with Charlotte’s good intentions, kind heart and indeed how lonely she is from the superficial personal connections she has. Yes, she makes mistakes, huge ones, and yet that made her genuine, real and loveable to me. After all, we are all winging it from one lucky break to grave mistake aren’t we?
There are some fantastic varied characters in this story (many of whom I would love to read more about their own back stories) who all contribute comic moments, plot growth, feel good factor and a heartfelt connection. Some characters definitely redeem themselves along the story and others remain villainous, but we all unite to plot their downfall. As it should be! I particularly loved Andrew, and the girl with pigtails, and then Charlotte’s best friend Kate, who is sassy, confident, and very Samantha-from-SATC-esque; most entertaining.
This is a story about Getting Even vs Moving On. How we strive to find true friendships amongst the fake, the true meaning of life amongst materialism and ambition, and the pitfalls of dating, relationships, friendships and careers.
A good book for getting your feel-good mojo back!
April 4, 2018
As this story progressed I grew to love it more and more. Its not that I disliked the opening chapters more wondering why on earth I was reading about such a kind hearted admittedly but shallow character. In fact Charlotte at the start of the book reminded me in a way of Cher from Clueless (which I may have rewatched a day or two before I started this so was on my mind!).
It seemed like everything had to be about Charlotte, even her friends seemed to call her out on her meddling needs. But when Charlotte gets the shock of her life, it is how she reacts to that and how her friends going through similar situations react that really enticed me in properly.
I loved seeing Charlotte grow in the way she deals with life into a far more rounded character, and the assorted meddling she was doing was all well meaning, and with some great after effects.
What one thing is for sure about the strong women in this book is that they are all convinced they would be better off without men in their lives.
This is a really entertaining story that once I worked out where it was going, I realised I was loving more and more with each page. Although The Holiday Cruise will remain my favourite of Victoria Cooke's books, this one is still a fabulous story and for non cruise obsessed people will probably be a firm favourite of the authors work.
Thank you to Netgalley and HQ Digital for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
It seemed like everything had to be about Charlotte, even her friends seemed to call her out on her meddling needs. But when Charlotte gets the shock of her life, it is how she reacts to that and how her friends going through similar situations react that really enticed me in properly.
I loved seeing Charlotte grow in the way she deals with life into a far more rounded character, and the assorted meddling she was doing was all well meaning, and with some great after effects.
What one thing is for sure about the strong women in this book is that they are all convinced they would be better off without men in their lives.
This is a really entertaining story that once I worked out where it was going, I realised I was loving more and more with each page. Although The Holiday Cruise will remain my favourite of Victoria Cooke's books, this one is still a fabulous story and for non cruise obsessed people will probably be a firm favourite of the authors work.
Thank you to Netgalley and HQ Digital for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 8, 2018
Another great read from Victoria Cooke. Expanding her writing style further, Victoria has created a beautiful ensemble of characters, each one fleshed out and serving a purpose. And for the third time in a row, she's created a male character I'd be more than happy to punch in the face!!
Loved the transition as Charlotte grows through the book and goes from someone I would usually have very little sympathy for to someone I felt deeply invested in. Wonderful ending!
Loved the transition as Charlotte grows through the book and goes from someone I would usually have very little sympathy for to someone I felt deeply invested in. Wonderful ending!
April 8, 2018
I was looking forward to reading this as I am a fan of Victoria Cooke's books and I have to say I think this is her best book yet! I absolutely loved this one it was so fun and I really enjoyed it. I really couldn't put it down it was so exciting so much drama.
There are loads of characters in this book and it is so easy to love them all. It was really great to see how Charlotte changed from when we first meet her at the start of the book she is definitely a different woman by the end of it. I also enjoyed the friendship circle in this book and how they got through things together and just had fun.
Even though you think you know what way the plot is going to go there are loads of little twists and surprises throughout which really kept you reading and guessing just how it was going to end.
Such a beautiful, heart warming fun read! One of my favourite books of the year!
There are loads of characters in this book and it is so easy to love them all. It was really great to see how Charlotte changed from when we first meet her at the start of the book she is definitely a different woman by the end of it. I also enjoyed the friendship circle in this book and how they got through things together and just had fun.
Even though you think you know what way the plot is going to go there are loads of little twists and surprises throughout which really kept you reading and guessing just how it was going to end.
Such a beautiful, heart warming fun read! One of my favourite books of the year!
March 25, 2018
What a compelling read!
I really enjoyed the plot with its twists and the relationship forging between the characters and how that changes throughout the book.
I think Cooke did a great job at showing the depth of Charlotte, the protagonist, from the very beginning. It’s nice that you can see from the get go there is more to her than just a bored housewife; in fact, what I liked the most of this novel is that it touches interesting and thought-provoking themes as well as being highly entertaining.
A well deserved 5*!
I really enjoyed the plot with its twists and the relationship forging between the characters and how that changes throughout the book.
I think Cooke did a great job at showing the depth of Charlotte, the protagonist, from the very beginning. It’s nice that you can see from the get go there is more to her than just a bored housewife; in fact, what I liked the most of this novel is that it touches interesting and thought-provoking themes as well as being highly entertaining.
A well deserved 5*!
February 28, 2018
At the beginning, I disliked the main character, Charlotte. Spoiled, shallow and prone to interfering in other people's lives, her oh-so-perfect existence was like fingernails on a blackboard. But I persevered and I'm glad I did. Gradually, as her enviable but superficially satisfying life begins to unravel, my heart warmed to her. Yes, she meddles a lot, but with good intentions. Along the way, we meet other entertaining characters who band together as a force to be reckoned with. Charlotte's journey from smug and complacent to feisty and determined to take control of her future makes for a warm and entertaining read. My thanks to Netgalley and HQ Digital for a copy of the book. This is my honest and unbiased review.
April 1, 2018
Charlotte believes her life and marriage are in a great state, so she likes to meddle in other people’s lives. Charlotte’s husband is working long hours and she has a lot of time on her hand, so she tries to help other people, but sometimes having good intentions can lead to wrong decisions. Charlotte is helping everyone around her, but when she needs help, she’ll have to learn who are real friends and who you can trust. When Charlotte’s world crumbles, does she have the right people around her to help her build it back up?
Another great book by Victoria Cooke, I’ve loved both previous books and this one was no exception. At first it was a bit difficult to like Charlotte, but as the story progressed I started to warm up to her and eventually I ended up liking her and the whole group of friends. Just as with other books, I once again found myself nodding along and thinking “Yes, that’s so true”, which shows how well you’ll be able to identify to the issues those characters go through or how they see life. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to read next book by the author!
Another great book by Victoria Cooke, I’ve loved both previous books and this one was no exception. At first it was a bit difficult to like Charlotte, but as the story progressed I started to warm up to her and eventually I ended up liking her and the whole group of friends. Just as with other books, I once again found myself nodding along and thinking “Yes, that’s so true”, which shows how well you’ll be able to identify to the issues those characters go through or how they see life. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to read next book by the author!
April 10, 2018
3.5 Stars – Rounded
I’m being completely honest when I say that I hated – yes HATED the main character Charlotte for a good 2/3 of the book. Smug, materialistic, meddlesome, prone to thinking she is the ONLY person who knows what is best for everyone she encounters. She’s so very unrealistic in her view of the world – even though she does work hard for charities and has developed this persona to make up for her rather unremarkable start in life. Even knowing all of that information from Charlotte’s pov – her consistent inability to curb her own meddling impulses was more than frustrating – particularly when things started to go pear shaped.
Married for eleven years, she is finally finding her life isn’t all she hoped: making a ‘perfect’ house for her lawyer husband, purchasing just the ‘right’ dress, and working out regularly with a personal trainer, especially in moments of freak out when an extra dinner roll just may have ruined her perfect figure. Self-indulgent to the nth degree, the ONLY saving grace for Charlotte is her determination to see others happy. When she discovers her personal trainer’s fiance in a compromising situation, then follows the other woman to ‘get information’ – her obsessions look less than honorable. Not surprisingly, the chickens come home to roost as she discovers her own husband’s infidelity with the wife of her gardener – a shock yes, but one she was wholly unprepared for as she felt herself (smugly and wrongly) in the perfect marriage, even with his extra hours of work.
I don’t know how Cooke managed to keep me reading on with such a distasteful character in Charlotte, but her moments of clarity – where you actually saw her good intentions were clearly defined, and it wasn’t until her own calculation and missteps caught up with her – and she saw the result of losing someone she had come to care for with her own manipulations that she starts to see the error of her ways. With a feisty, take no prisoners, bent on revenge friend, a series of ‘getting back their own’ acts, and uncovering the depths of her own husband’s deception, as well as finally having someone and something to call her own in the form of a much longed for baby, Charlotte starts to become the woman she was meant to be – stripped of all pretense she finds the value of a life fully lived – even without the designer labels. An interesting, if difficult read that showed great growth, plenty of heart and a surprisingly wonderful ending.
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
I’m being completely honest when I say that I hated – yes HATED the main character Charlotte for a good 2/3 of the book. Smug, materialistic, meddlesome, prone to thinking she is the ONLY person who knows what is best for everyone she encounters. She’s so very unrealistic in her view of the world – even though she does work hard for charities and has developed this persona to make up for her rather unremarkable start in life. Even knowing all of that information from Charlotte’s pov – her consistent inability to curb her own meddling impulses was more than frustrating – particularly when things started to go pear shaped.
Married for eleven years, she is finally finding her life isn’t all she hoped: making a ‘perfect’ house for her lawyer husband, purchasing just the ‘right’ dress, and working out regularly with a personal trainer, especially in moments of freak out when an extra dinner roll just may have ruined her perfect figure. Self-indulgent to the nth degree, the ONLY saving grace for Charlotte is her determination to see others happy. When she discovers her personal trainer’s fiance in a compromising situation, then follows the other woman to ‘get information’ – her obsessions look less than honorable. Not surprisingly, the chickens come home to roost as she discovers her own husband’s infidelity with the wife of her gardener – a shock yes, but one she was wholly unprepared for as she felt herself (smugly and wrongly) in the perfect marriage, even with his extra hours of work.
I don’t know how Cooke managed to keep me reading on with such a distasteful character in Charlotte, but her moments of clarity – where you actually saw her good intentions were clearly defined, and it wasn’t until her own calculation and missteps caught up with her – and she saw the result of losing someone she had come to care for with her own manipulations that she starts to see the error of her ways. With a feisty, take no prisoners, bent on revenge friend, a series of ‘getting back their own’ acts, and uncovering the depths of her own husband’s deception, as well as finally having someone and something to call her own in the form of a much longed for baby, Charlotte starts to become the woman she was meant to be – stripped of all pretense she finds the value of a life fully lived – even without the designer labels. An interesting, if difficult read that showed great growth, plenty of heart and a surprisingly wonderful ending.
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
April 10, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
As soon as I realised that this book contained a character with the name ‘James’, I burst out laughing, especially when it became clear that Charlotte was going to get her own back on James. Why did I laugh? I know, typing this now makes it all seem a bit childish BUT, seeing as I have an ex called James myself and is as much of an asshat as the James in this book, my mind started to get revenge. How daft am I! Look, Charlotte isn’t the most loveable character at first, nor is she a very relatable one, but that doesn’t excuse James’ behaviour in the slightest. I kept thinking what I would do if i were in Charlotte’s position, hence why i find it a bit funny. Let’s be clear for one second though – I don’t find his antics funny, i find the similarities between my ex and this character funny.
I did get a little bit annoyed with Charlotte’s interfering, and wasn’t at all surprised when things got a little too much in return. It was just a shame that Charlotte felt the need to involve herself in other people’s lives, just to create a bit of excitement in her own.
That said, when Charlotte started to show a different side to her personality later on in the book, my opinion of her changed greatly as she became a much more relatable character to warm up to.
I loved how Victoria Cooke showed characters who seemed determined to live their lives without the input of a male companion as it brought the whole ‘sisterhood’ theme to a brand new level. Okay, there were times where I just wanted the scorned characters to get on with it and hit the other party where it hurt instead of spending the time bitching, however, with the likes of Kate to keep the momentum of the storyline going, I soon forgot the lack of urgency with the characters revenge. Just goes to show how differently people react to certain situations.
Sisters are definitely doing it for themselves in ‘Who Needs Men Anyway?’! Well, sisters from another mister but lets not get pedantic about it! I loved the overall theme of this book, and I loved how much strength Victoria Cooke gave to Charlotte later on in the storyline without making those ‘types’ of people out to be the world’s worst women. Vague, I know, but when you read the book it will make a bit more sense and you will understand where I am coming from with this bit. TWG doesn’t do spoilers!!
‘Who Needs Men Anyway?’ is a laugh out loud, modern, relatable and one hundred percent SASS-TASTIC. Yet another addictive enchanting novel from an author who is ‘just like us’, Victoria Cooke.
P.S – I SO want a unicorn car….
As soon as I realised that this book contained a character with the name ‘James’, I burst out laughing, especially when it became clear that Charlotte was going to get her own back on James. Why did I laugh? I know, typing this now makes it all seem a bit childish BUT, seeing as I have an ex called James myself and is as much of an asshat as the James in this book, my mind started to get revenge. How daft am I! Look, Charlotte isn’t the most loveable character at first, nor is she a very relatable one, but that doesn’t excuse James’ behaviour in the slightest. I kept thinking what I would do if i were in Charlotte’s position, hence why i find it a bit funny. Let’s be clear for one second though – I don’t find his antics funny, i find the similarities between my ex and this character funny.
I did get a little bit annoyed with Charlotte’s interfering, and wasn’t at all surprised when things got a little too much in return. It was just a shame that Charlotte felt the need to involve herself in other people’s lives, just to create a bit of excitement in her own.
That said, when Charlotte started to show a different side to her personality later on in the book, my opinion of her changed greatly as she became a much more relatable character to warm up to.
I loved how Victoria Cooke showed characters who seemed determined to live their lives without the input of a male companion as it brought the whole ‘sisterhood’ theme to a brand new level. Okay, there were times where I just wanted the scorned characters to get on with it and hit the other party where it hurt instead of spending the time bitching, however, with the likes of Kate to keep the momentum of the storyline going, I soon forgot the lack of urgency with the characters revenge. Just goes to show how differently people react to certain situations.
Sisters are definitely doing it for themselves in ‘Who Needs Men Anyway?’! Well, sisters from another mister but lets not get pedantic about it! I loved the overall theme of this book, and I loved how much strength Victoria Cooke gave to Charlotte later on in the storyline without making those ‘types’ of people out to be the world’s worst women. Vague, I know, but when you read the book it will make a bit more sense and you will understand where I am coming from with this bit. TWG doesn’t do spoilers!!
‘Who Needs Men Anyway?’ is a laugh out loud, modern, relatable and one hundred percent SASS-TASTIC. Yet another addictive enchanting novel from an author who is ‘just like us’, Victoria Cooke.
P.S – I SO want a unicorn car….
May 20, 2021
Charlotte has it all. She has a lifestyle that some would certainly envy although being a social butterfly is something that doesn’t appeal to me. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of her at first as she is part of a world that is quite fake with everyone pretending to be a good friend but would like nothing better than to see the other one fail. Even though she does organise charity events to raise money, she does come across as a bored housewife.
The more I got to know Charlotte though, the more I warmed to her. She did make me shake my head more than a few times at her antics where you just know, no good is going to come from it all and that its going to come back and bite her. It did make for some humorous reading though and I couldn’t help but feel sorry for poor Charlotte when things do indeed come back and bite her.
This was a story that had me go through quite a few emotions. Whilst overall it is a light hearted read, it does cover infidelity for one of which I couldn’t help but feel for the characters involved. It has you routing for Charlotte though and the people whose lives she has meddled in and it turned out to be quite an uplifting and heart-warming read.
Who Needs Men Anyway? is a great book to escape into when you need a pick me up. It’s a reminder that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side as well as how well you really know the ones you love. It’s also a story about friendship and picking yourself up, dusting yourself down and moving on with your life. Charlotte is a fun protagonist who grew on me throughout and I was sad to say goodbye to her by the end. Fun and uplifting, what more could you possibly want from a book?
The more I got to know Charlotte though, the more I warmed to her. She did make me shake my head more than a few times at her antics where you just know, no good is going to come from it all and that its going to come back and bite her. It did make for some humorous reading though and I couldn’t help but feel sorry for poor Charlotte when things do indeed come back and bite her.
This was a story that had me go through quite a few emotions. Whilst overall it is a light hearted read, it does cover infidelity for one of which I couldn’t help but feel for the characters involved. It has you routing for Charlotte though and the people whose lives she has meddled in and it turned out to be quite an uplifting and heart-warming read.
Who Needs Men Anyway? is a great book to escape into when you need a pick me up. It’s a reminder that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side as well as how well you really know the ones you love. It’s also a story about friendship and picking yourself up, dusting yourself down and moving on with your life. Charlotte is a fun protagonist who grew on me throughout and I was sad to say goodbye to her by the end. Fun and uplifting, what more could you possibly want from a book?
March 23, 2018
A fabulously fun and laugh out loud novel about friendship and being true to yourself.
I’ll be honest and say that I didn’t warm to the main character Charlotte straight away. Her life of spending her husband’s money and organising charity events seemed rather pointless, but the author’s fabulous writing carried me through and it didn’t take long for me to be rooting for Charlotte and her friends in this fantastically told romance.
There were some wonderful twists that I didn’t see coming and even in the final chapters I wasn’t sure how the story would finish for Charlotte. This is a fun romantic read with realistic characters, fun, sass, tears and laughter.
This is the first novel I’ve read by this author but it won’t be the last. Thank you to HQ and NetGalley for the ARC.
September 15, 2018
A bittersweet tale of Charlotte, her friends Megan, Kate and Sam, and their respective relationships.
It was amusing in parts but the characters were not as deeply drawn as I’d have liked.
Some fun anecdotes and the romantic nature comes out in the later parts of the book once the infidelity has all been aired... difficult to make a story romantic after cheating spouses but the author manages it.
Set in an area that I know well, the beauty of the area wasn’t drawn upon very much and I think this was a missed opportunity for a more romantic setting.
A sweet novel but didn’t blow me away.
It was amusing in parts but the characters were not as deeply drawn as I’d have liked.
Some fun anecdotes and the romantic nature comes out in the later parts of the book once the infidelity has all been aired... difficult to make a story romantic after cheating spouses but the author manages it.
Set in an area that I know well, the beauty of the area wasn’t drawn upon very much and I think this was a missed opportunity for a more romantic setting.
A sweet novel but didn’t blow me away.
April 4, 2018
I loved this book and I am now a Victoria Cooke fan!
I liked how I disliked the character of Charlotte at the start and by the end I was a little emotional about her. Great character transformation. There were some satisfying acts of revenge in this book and at the end I felt like balance had been restored. I liked Charlotte’s inner strength and she really grew on me. Loved the humour!
Good book and worth a read!
I liked how I disliked the character of Charlotte at the start and by the end I was a little emotional about her. Great character transformation. There were some satisfying acts of revenge in this book and at the end I felt like balance had been restored. I liked Charlotte’s inner strength and she really grew on me. Loved the humour!
Good book and worth a read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2018
Dnf at 44%
Charlotte is one of those perfect women who wants it all and who expects her husband to provide it. I really don’t like her. And there is no point in continuing because I know how this is going to end and I know I am going to hate it. As for James? All I can say is - poor sod. He deserved better.
Charlotte is one of those perfect women who wants it all and who expects her husband to provide it. I really don’t like her. And there is no point in continuing because I know how this is going to end and I know I am going to hate it. As for James? All I can say is - poor sod. He deserved better.
February 12, 2018
Funny and poignant with a wonderfully realistic cast of characters. I followed Charlotte's journey avidly, cheering her on all the way. An unputdownable read.
April 3, 2018
A very enjoyable and funny book about coming to terms with reality. Well written, with very enjoyable characters.
Many thanks to Netgalley and HQ Digital
Many thanks to Netgalley and HQ Digital
March 2, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by Victoria Cooke and I was excited to receive an ARC as I’d heard great things about The Holiday Cruise. Initially I thought the main character was quite dull- a cardboard cut out Real Housewife type of woman. But as the story went on she finally got a backbone and began appreciating what matters in life. This is when I began to like her. The cast of characters was great- good mix of personalities and it was good to have a couple of nice guys thrown in amongst the rotten ones. Fairly predictable read but enjoyable.
Thanks kindly to Netgalley, publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks kindly to Netgalley, publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 11, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Victoria Cooke and I was excited to receive an ARC as the title and summary sounded really good.
However, I felt the title of the box was misleading and I didn't have any sympathy for the main character, Charlotte. She refers constantly to not wanting a man or money but spends frivolously and pines after every man she meets. The other character Megan immediately starts dating the other character too.
It took until 70% of the way into the book for the reader to start to discover the 'real' Charlotte and she became a much more interesting character. I almost wished the affairs and meddling happened quicker at the begging and the book was more focused on her coping.
The plot has promise but I felt it took too long to get to the main storyline or of any drama of real substance to happen.
There were some occasional funny parts, such as the unicorn car motif, but this was glossed over and led to more scenes of Charlotte feeling sorry for herself.
It was a quick and easy read but I didn't think it lived up to the title.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
However, I felt the title of the box was misleading and I didn't have any sympathy for the main character, Charlotte. She refers constantly to not wanting a man or money but spends frivolously and pines after every man she meets. The other character Megan immediately starts dating the other character too.
It took until 70% of the way into the book for the reader to start to discover the 'real' Charlotte and she became a much more interesting character. I almost wished the affairs and meddling happened quicker at the begging and the book was more focused on her coping.
The plot has promise but I felt it took too long to get to the main storyline or of any drama of real substance to happen.
There were some occasional funny parts, such as the unicorn car motif, but this was glossed over and led to more scenes of Charlotte feeling sorry for herself.
It was a quick and easy read but I didn't think it lived up to the title.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2018
OMG! I was screaming at this character in the first few chapters and was ready to throw the book. For some (truly unknown) reason, I held on... and THANKFULLY, it turned out to be a story of this oblivious, vapid, delusional, deranged, airheaded, stepford's journey on the path to becoming at least something closer to human.
I did like the friend group. But the endless airhead moves she made kept me gritting my teeth.
And then the final section all seemed to be a bit skipsy-dazy. There was no 'depth' (as per this books curve) to any of it, and we were skipping weeks and months at a time, and topics that had been raised were either glossed or forgotten. It was just a bit 'over now'.
I did like the friend group. But the endless airhead moves she made kept me gritting my teeth.
And then the final section all seemed to be a bit skipsy-dazy. There was no 'depth' (as per this books curve) to any of it, and we were skipping weeks and months at a time, and topics that had been raised were either glossed or forgotten. It was just a bit 'over now'.
November 17, 2018
An easy, quick read...knocked it out in a day.
Had there been 1/2 star options, I’d probably have given 3 1/2 . I feel that 4 stars is being generous, but 3 would have been harsh.
The first few chapters are slow and read as if the author doesn’t know her characters very well, but things improve considerably, and characters develop some depth. The story line is somewhat predictable, but there are some laugh out loud moments.
Certainly not an example of literary genius but if you are after enjoyable chick-lit to pass the time, this is worth a go.
Had there been 1/2 star options, I’d probably have given 3 1/2 . I feel that 4 stars is being generous, but 3 would have been harsh.
The first few chapters are slow and read as if the author doesn’t know her characters very well, but things improve considerably, and characters develop some depth. The story line is somewhat predictable, but there are some laugh out loud moments.
Certainly not an example of literary genius but if you are after enjoyable chick-lit to pass the time, this is worth a go.
November 3, 2018
Lovely plot. I did enjoy the book and though I was first annoyed that James cheating on Charlotte was so predictable, the author making it so obvious somewhat made it feel realistic. I felt like I was part of Charlotte’s little group with their ups and downs. One quote I especially like from the book from Charlotte was “life’s just too short to push away the people you get along with” and I couldn’t agree more.
November 16, 2018
I battled getting into the book. The main female character felt very shallow and irritating. She kept meddling in other peoples lives and it just felt like she was completely bored with her own life or didn't want to face her own problems. In the middle of the book, the story was a bit better but I found no humour in the book. The dialogue between the different characters was not interesting at all. I did finish the book but battled through it.
December 11, 2018
This book was a fun read with a story line that feels very much like a story told to you buy a friend that's got a bit of drama in her life. Very much a chick lit, with a predictable story line. It is a light read that one can sit through and easily get drawn into and captivated in the lives of the characters that are within this story. Go ahead, read it. You'll be just as entertained as I was.
July 13, 2020
This book was seriously AWESOME!!!!!
A really nice feel-good book, perfect for making your mood better. I had a really ridiculous grin on my face for the most part, and loved the way the plot was resolved. The salty revenge plot was seriously fulfilling and I just don't have words to express how good this book was.
A really nice feel-good book, perfect for making your mood better. I had a really ridiculous grin on my face for the most part, and loved the way the plot was resolved. The salty revenge plot was seriously fulfilling and I just don't have words to express how good this book was.
June 9, 2021
This book was seriously AWESOME!!!!!
A really nice feel-good book, perfect for making your mood better. I had a really ridiculous grin on my face for the most part, and loved the way the plot was resolved. The salty revenge plot was seriously fulfilling and I just don't have words to express how good this book was.
A really nice feel-good book, perfect for making your mood better. I had a really ridiculous grin on my face for the most part, and loved the way the plot was resolved. The salty revenge plot was seriously fulfilling and I just don't have words to express how good this book was.
November 10, 2018
Took me a few chapters to get into the book, but then I just fell in to it. Frankly ended loving the first half of the book more than the second - since the latter felt a bit dragged out and too predictable. A nice chill read if you are looking for one.
July 22, 2020
At the start I really disliked Charlotte (the lead character) and I was struggling to get into the book as I couldn’t identify with the character at all. However, the book grew on me as I read it and I enjoyed the story in the end. Worth sticking with if you’ve started it!
March 16, 2018
Entertaining chick lit. Charlotte grew on me.
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