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The Devil Wears Prada #3
The Wives
The Wives
416 pages, Paperback
First published June 5, 2018
9283 people are currently reading
45979 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Weisberger
43 books5,977 followersLauren Weisberger is an American writer and author of the 2003 bestseller The Devil Wears Prada, a roman à clef of her experience as an assistant to Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. Weisberger worked as a writer and editor for Vogue and Departures magazines prior to authoring The Devil Wears Prada, which was adapted into a film of the same name in 2006. She has since published seven other novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 6,182 reviews
March 12, 2019
*4.5 stars*
Truth be told I expect quite a bit from my women’s fiction picks. I’m looking for characters to (1) share a somewhat relatable story, (2) come across as likable, for the most part, and (3) present issues that hit me on an emotional level. Nothing unachievable by any means; yet, did I mention I also want the experience to feel light, almost easy breezy? Oh, and no cornball antics, please. I can’t handle it, nor be expected to refrain from any eye-rolling.
Luckily When Life Gives You Lululemons hit all of the requisite high notes. From go, the style and inherent humor present in Lauren Weisberger's writing was intoxicating. Similar to meeting a new person and feeling those things that allude to the possibility of a great friendship, this book and I just vibed.
For some unknown reason, The Devil Wears Prada (book 1) never made its way into my hands; although, I’ve watched the movie countless times. So, if you find you’re hesitant to give this a go because you haven’t read the two prior books, don’t fret. Jump in, life in Greenwich, CT is far too fun to miss out on.
WLGYL finds Emily—remember Miranda Priestly's plucky assistant at Runway, played by Emily Blunt?—mid-thirties, living in L.A. and working as a publicity manager for the elite. A crisis with a potential client lands her in New York (her first love), and in one fell swoop brings her entire business into question. Is she somehow aging out of the game?
Some downtime with one of her dearest friends, Miriam, in the suburbs (gasp!), lands a chance to revive her standing in the entertainment world right in her lap. And bonus, it might mean taking down a total dirtbag.
Riddled with heart, humor, and scandal, this is a storyline that reiterates getting through just about anything is possible with the support of your dearest friends. I wholeheartedly adored each of the three ladies and their penchant for being real with one another, which often resulted in my laughter. Miriam for her naivety when it came to navigating her new stay-at-home mom status in a town full of day drinkers, athleisure clad gossipers and vaginal rejuvenation devotees. Karolina for her loyalty—despite having her hard-earned reputation dragged through the mud—and newfound backbone. But, it was Emily I adored most of all.
It's quite comical that Emily Blunt was cast for the part of Emily considering BLUNT is also the best epithet for the character. There’s no tiptoeing around any issues with her, she hits you with the truth and doesn’t apologize. What humanizes her are the minute glimmers of heart and vulnerability she allows those closest to her to see and subsequently, the reader. And, I can’t forget, her delivery, which nine times out of ten, is downright HILARIOUS. Emily is the queen of one-liners.
I sincerely hope we see more from these characters, especially after Ms. Emily, aka high fashion, succumbs to the comfort of those stretchy Lululemons. *wink*
Truth be told I expect quite a bit from my women’s fiction picks. I’m looking for characters to (1) share a somewhat relatable story, (2) come across as likable, for the most part, and (3) present issues that hit me on an emotional level. Nothing unachievable by any means; yet, did I mention I also want the experience to feel light, almost easy breezy? Oh, and no cornball antics, please. I can’t handle it, nor be expected to refrain from any eye-rolling.
Luckily When Life Gives You Lululemons hit all of the requisite high notes. From go, the style and inherent humor present in Lauren Weisberger's writing was intoxicating. Similar to meeting a new person and feeling those things that allude to the possibility of a great friendship, this book and I just vibed.
For some unknown reason, The Devil Wears Prada (book 1) never made its way into my hands; although, I’ve watched the movie countless times. So, if you find you’re hesitant to give this a go because you haven’t read the two prior books, don’t fret. Jump in, life in Greenwich, CT is far too fun to miss out on.
WLGYL finds Emily—remember Miranda Priestly's plucky assistant at Runway, played by Emily Blunt?—mid-thirties, living in L.A. and working as a publicity manager for the elite. A crisis with a potential client lands her in New York (her first love), and in one fell swoop brings her entire business into question. Is she somehow aging out of the game?
Some downtime with one of her dearest friends, Miriam, in the suburbs (gasp!), lands a chance to revive her standing in the entertainment world right in her lap. And bonus, it might mean taking down a total dirtbag.
Riddled with heart, humor, and scandal, this is a storyline that reiterates getting through just about anything is possible with the support of your dearest friends. I wholeheartedly adored each of the three ladies and their penchant for being real with one another, which often resulted in my laughter. Miriam for her naivety when it came to navigating her new stay-at-home mom status in a town full of day drinkers, athleisure clad gossipers and vaginal rejuvenation devotees. Karolina for her loyalty—despite having her hard-earned reputation dragged through the mud—and newfound backbone. But, it was Emily I adored most of all.
It's quite comical that Emily Blunt was cast for the part of Emily considering BLUNT is also the best epithet for the character. There’s no tiptoeing around any issues with her, she hits you with the truth and doesn’t apologize. What humanizes her are the minute glimmers of heart and vulnerability she allows those closest to her to see and subsequently, the reader. And, I can’t forget, her delivery, which nine times out of ten, is downright HILARIOUS. Emily is the queen of one-liners.
I sincerely hope we see more from these characters, especially after Ms. Emily, aka high fashion, succumbs to the comfort of those stretchy Lululemons. *wink*
June 3, 2019
Good Snarky Fun!
I needed an escape read and this book took me far from reality (but not too far).
Emily Charlton from The Devil Wears Prada takes center stage in When Life Gives You Lululemons. When Emily finds herself in Greenwich, CT aka suburban hell, she reunites with two friends to help one (Karolina) rebrand her image and the other (Miriam) to adapt to suburban living.
The story is told through the eyes of Emily, Karolina, and Miriam. Emily’s chapters were my favorite --I found her character to be so refreshing. She has moxie--she knows what she wants and she takes it. She isn’t afraid to speak the truth. I love her snark--her asides made me laugh out loud.
I was looking for a fun and easy read and found this book buried deep in my tbr. What I loved most about this book is that is well-balanced, has a sense of humor and a surprising amount of depth. Most importantly, it was so nice to read a book in which women empower one another and hold each other up through their darkest times.
I highly recommend for a summer escape read!
I needed an escape read and this book took me far from reality (but not too far).
Emily Charlton from The Devil Wears Prada takes center stage in When Life Gives You Lululemons. When Emily finds herself in Greenwich, CT aka suburban hell, she reunites with two friends to help one (Karolina) rebrand her image and the other (Miriam) to adapt to suburban living.
The story is told through the eyes of Emily, Karolina, and Miriam. Emily’s chapters were my favorite --I found her character to be so refreshing. She has moxie--she knows what she wants and she takes it. She isn’t afraid to speak the truth. I love her snark--her asides made me laugh out loud.
I was looking for a fun and easy read and found this book buried deep in my tbr. What I loved most about this book is that is well-balanced, has a sense of humor and a surprising amount of depth. Most importantly, it was so nice to read a book in which women empower one another and hold each other up through their darkest times.
I highly recommend for a summer escape read!
June 3, 2018
Everyone’s favorite ex-assistant Emily Charlton is back and just as sassy as ever!! See my full review here!
If any character deserved their own book, Emily would be among the top on my list! This book is positively delightful, and introduces two new co-leading ladies who are the perfect complement to Emily. Lauren Weisberger sure knows how to write a trendy book with surprisingly deep social commentary on the insecurity underlying all of the glitz, glamour, and money without being overly critical of anyone who subscribes to that lifestyle. I absolutely had a blast reading this book, and I think other readers—whether new to Weisberger or long-time fans—will feel the same way!
Emily Charlton now has her own assistant to boss around...
Emily has found her way into a career that perfectly capitalizes on her mix of taste, elegance, and ball-busting working as an image consultant to celebrities. Emily can handle anything from a sex scandal to a racist comment with ease, and she manages it all with typical Emily charm. However, Emily is slowly losing clients to a young up-and-comer who is more in touch with social media than she is. Emily knows that everyone always wants someone younger and trendier, but she is shocked when even a long-standing client turns away from her!
Karolina is a top-model with a top-notch problem...
Karolina is an ex-model who ruled the Victoria’ Secret runway (and the cover of Runway itself) for years, all while marrying a U.S. Senator and becoming a mother to his 4-year old son. However, when Karolina is arrested for a DUI with children in the car, she needs help and fast! Karolina was not drunk, but despite her pleading for a breathalyzer, the police locked her up and the press knew all the sordid details by morning. Karolina finds herself on the outs with her friends, her husband, and the media, and she needs to understand what is happening fast!
Miriam has traded the board room for the playroom...
Miriam is a high-powered, Harvard-trained attorney who up-and-quit her job as a Partner in one of NYC’s most prestigious firms to move to Greenwich, CT with her husband and kids. Miriam tries to convince herself this is what she wants. But if that is true, why has she not had sex with her husband in months? And why has she gained twenty pounds? Miriam doesn’t know if they made the right decision after all, but sometimes talking to those you love can be harder than being Miranda Priestley’s junior assistant!
What do three Manhattanites do when they find themselves in Greenwich??
Emily, Miriam, and Karolina find themselves banished to Greenwich at the same time, and they may be the exact combination of people needed to take on the threats to all of their lives! With a lululemon-clad mom-squad, and secret sex toy parties in glittering Greenwich mansions, Emily, Karolina, and Miriam will find a way to help one another like no one but a former assistant of Miranda Priestley could!
Reflection
This book was exactly what I needed at just the right time! Emily is a wonderful character, and it is so great to see a story from her perspective. Emily is someone who is tough as nails, but is kinder and more caring than she seems. It was a treat to see Lauren explore that in her narrative. And Emily sure can carry a story!!!
I loved the relationship between the three women. They each have a quality that balances the others, and keeps them in check. And even better, they each completely accept one another for who they are, despite their differences. They aren’t afraid to tell each other the tough things they need to hear. They are all struggling with their own lives, and yet they support each other.
This is a total women empowerment book, and I am so excited for it to debut. I know it will fill the hearts and minds of Devil Wears Prada fans, as well as to readers that are new to Weisberger’s writing.
Many thanks to Simon & Schuster and Lauren Weisberger for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If any character deserved their own book, Emily would be among the top on my list! This book is positively delightful, and introduces two new co-leading ladies who are the perfect complement to Emily. Lauren Weisberger sure knows how to write a trendy book with surprisingly deep social commentary on the insecurity underlying all of the glitz, glamour, and money without being overly critical of anyone who subscribes to that lifestyle. I absolutely had a blast reading this book, and I think other readers—whether new to Weisberger or long-time fans—will feel the same way!
Emily Charlton now has her own assistant to boss around...
Emily has found her way into a career that perfectly capitalizes on her mix of taste, elegance, and ball-busting working as an image consultant to celebrities. Emily can handle anything from a sex scandal to a racist comment with ease, and she manages it all with typical Emily charm. However, Emily is slowly losing clients to a young up-and-comer who is more in touch with social media than she is. Emily knows that everyone always wants someone younger and trendier, but she is shocked when even a long-standing client turns away from her!
Karolina is a top-model with a top-notch problem...
Karolina is an ex-model who ruled the Victoria’ Secret runway (and the cover of Runway itself) for years, all while marrying a U.S. Senator and becoming a mother to his 4-year old son. However, when Karolina is arrested for a DUI with children in the car, she needs help and fast! Karolina was not drunk, but despite her pleading for a breathalyzer, the police locked her up and the press knew all the sordid details by morning. Karolina finds herself on the outs with her friends, her husband, and the media, and she needs to understand what is happening fast!
Miriam has traded the board room for the playroom...
Miriam is a high-powered, Harvard-trained attorney who up-and-quit her job as a Partner in one of NYC’s most prestigious firms to move to Greenwich, CT with her husband and kids. Miriam tries to convince herself this is what she wants. But if that is true, why has she not had sex with her husband in months? And why has she gained twenty pounds? Miriam doesn’t know if they made the right decision after all, but sometimes talking to those you love can be harder than being Miranda Priestley’s junior assistant!
What do three Manhattanites do when they find themselves in Greenwich??
Emily, Miriam, and Karolina find themselves banished to Greenwich at the same time, and they may be the exact combination of people needed to take on the threats to all of their lives! With a lululemon-clad mom-squad, and secret sex toy parties in glittering Greenwich mansions, Emily, Karolina, and Miriam will find a way to help one another like no one but a former assistant of Miranda Priestley could!
Reflection
This book was exactly what I needed at just the right time! Emily is a wonderful character, and it is so great to see a story from her perspective. Emily is someone who is tough as nails, but is kinder and more caring than she seems. It was a treat to see Lauren explore that in her narrative. And Emily sure can carry a story!!!
I loved the relationship between the three women. They each have a quality that balances the others, and keeps them in check. And even better, they each completely accept one another for who they are, despite their differences. They aren’t afraid to tell each other the tough things they need to hear. They are all struggling with their own lives, and yet they support each other.
This is a total women empowerment book, and I am so excited for it to debut. I know it will fill the hearts and minds of Devil Wears Prada fans, as well as to readers that are new to Weisberger’s writing.
Many thanks to Simon & Schuster and Lauren Weisberger for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2020
Money doesn’t always buy you happiness...
Once again, I've discovered the perfect audio-book to keep me dialed in from start to finish! I do believe I’ve finally got this figured out!
This is book three of The Devil Wears Prada series, though I was not aware of that when I downloaded it. No worries, you’ll find it easy to pick up the characters and all their interesting little quirks.
Life of the blue-blood wealthy in Greenwich Connecticut is far from what it seems at first glance. Young trophy wives are busy outdoing one another in every way. Who takes the most exotic vacation...who has the best personal trainer...who has the best plastic surgeon on speed dial! All the truly important things in life.🙄 Thanks but no thanks! I’m out🙋🏻♀️
Told from the perspective of three women trying to navigate through these shark infested waters. Listen in as Emily, Miriam and Lina confront cheating husbands, careers tanking, and post-baby bodies. The narrator did a fantastic job of giving each woman (and their husbands) very distinctive and separate voices, and I had no trouble keeping these characters apart.
Even though the story-line deals with a few serious issues, the author does a great job to keep it light, giving me some laugh-out-loud moments. I just adored Emily’s character with her biting snarkiness!
If I ever find myself in a pickle I’d want her on my corner!
Once again, I've discovered the perfect audio-book to keep me dialed in from start to finish! I do believe I’ve finally got this figured out!
This is book three of The Devil Wears Prada series, though I was not aware of that when I downloaded it. No worries, you’ll find it easy to pick up the characters and all their interesting little quirks.
Life of the blue-blood wealthy in Greenwich Connecticut is far from what it seems at first glance. Young trophy wives are busy outdoing one another in every way. Who takes the most exotic vacation...who has the best personal trainer...who has the best plastic surgeon on speed dial! All the truly important things in life.🙄 Thanks but no thanks! I’m out🙋🏻♀️
Told from the perspective of three women trying to navigate through these shark infested waters. Listen in as Emily, Miriam and Lina confront cheating husbands, careers tanking, and post-baby bodies. The narrator did a fantastic job of giving each woman (and their husbands) very distinctive and separate voices, and I had no trouble keeping these characters apart.
Even though the story-line deals with a few serious issues, the author does a great job to keep it light, giving me some laugh-out-loud moments. I just adored Emily’s character with her biting snarkiness!
If I ever find myself in a pickle I’d want her on my corner!
August 19, 2020
OMGGGG!! SO much fun and the audio is amazing!! All of the stars ....and I mean all of the stars for this one! I really underestimated just how much I would love this. This book is highly addictive. I can't even tell you how many times I put it down, just to pick it back up.
Being so new to the audio book scene I was a bit skeptical...I have only listened to one other and it was just okay. Let me put it this way, I ditched my "regular" book to listen to this because I could not get enough. I blew through this is two days. The girls and I went everywhere together!
This is like listening to an episode of the The Housewives on Bravo, so if you like that- you will love this. I do. So I did. It was like I was a fly on the wall listening to these glam girls chat. It was like they were my BFF's...but of course they weren't.
You haven't read the other two books in the series? No need to worry. I did not either. This can be a total stand alone. I do admit that I saw The Devil Wears Prada a million years ago. Yet, you don't even need to see the movie before reading this. Although I did appreciate when the devil herself- Miranda made a appearance- she has not changed a bit!
If you like fun, catty, witty, snarky, hilarious - here you go! I can't recommend it enough! This is probably the most fun I have had with a book all year. I literally got lost in the audio for the last two days and it was addictive and delightful all wrapped into one!
Being so new to the audio book scene I was a bit skeptical...I have only listened to one other and it was just okay. Let me put it this way, I ditched my "regular" book to listen to this because I could not get enough. I blew through this is two days. The girls and I went everywhere together!
This is like listening to an episode of the The Housewives on Bravo, so if you like that- you will love this. I do. So I did. It was like I was a fly on the wall listening to these glam girls chat. It was like they were my BFF's...but of course they weren't.
You haven't read the other two books in the series? No need to worry. I did not either. This can be a total stand alone. I do admit that I saw The Devil Wears Prada a million years ago. Yet, you don't even need to see the movie before reading this. Although I did appreciate when the devil herself- Miranda made a appearance- she has not changed a bit!
If you like fun, catty, witty, snarky, hilarious - here you go! I can't recommend it enough! This is probably the most fun I have had with a book all year. I literally got lost in the audio for the last two days and it was addictive and delightful all wrapped into one!
May 30, 2018
4.5 hilarious laugh out loud stars🎉
This was a seriously funny, and slightly irreverent look motherhood, the suburbs, and how life changes with age. Throw in a juicy scandal and it’s all good fun! Full of slapstick moments with a dash of serious topics, it has the perfect balance for a great beach read.
Emily is back and funnier than ever - I love her and her seriously snarky, blunt personality. And who can’t love a cameo from The Devil, Miranda Priestly, herself?
This is a story of female friendship and how women supporting one another can get you through anything. And now I’m off to go watch The a Devil Wears Prada because it’s been too long and I don’t want to say goodbye just yet!
That’s all. 😉
Thank you so much to Elizabeth at Simon & Schuster for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a seriously funny, and slightly irreverent look motherhood, the suburbs, and how life changes with age. Throw in a juicy scandal and it’s all good fun! Full of slapstick moments with a dash of serious topics, it has the perfect balance for a great beach read.
Emily is back and funnier than ever - I love her and her seriously snarky, blunt personality. And who can’t love a cameo from The Devil, Miranda Priestly, herself?
This is a story of female friendship and how women supporting one another can get you through anything. And now I’m off to go watch The a Devil Wears Prada because it’s been too long and I don’t want to say goodbye just yet!
That’s all. 😉
Thank you so much to Elizabeth at Simon & Schuster for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2019
Lauren Weisberger brings back Emily Charlton, you know, the first assistant to Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, who has since left and established herself as an in demand image consultant, married to Miles, who she barely sees, and living in LA. This is a delicious blackly humorous novel that skewers the well to do culture of the suburban housewives of Greenwich, Connecticut, and the manipulative black arts that lie behind the politics and the horror stories that lie behind the ambitions of politicians. Emily has returned to New York at the behest of Helene and her client, Rizzo, facing a social media storm after his ill advised behaviour. The only trouble is Rizzo is not impressed with Emily and hires her rival, Olivia Belle instead, something that has been happening far too often, leaving her with barely any clients. Emily's in trouble and lurking in the background is the presence of Miranda, but Emily really doesn't want to return to her former life.
Miriam Kagan used to be a high powered lawyer and partner in a prestigious law firm in New York whose life has changed beyond recognition. Feeling that she was missing out on her three children growing up, she and husband, Paul, have relocated to Greenwich. There is an ever growing distance between her and Paul, and full time childcare has its moments but it is often a fraught and exhausting experience, reducing Miriam to living in athletic leisurewear as she piles on the pounds. Clearly, suburban living and its community of wives and mothers is not all it's cracked up to be and there is no-one more able to point this out to Miriam than the in your face, direct and snarky Emily who has come to stay. Former super model Kristina has been married to Senator Graham Harwell, despairing at her inability to conceive, pouring her maternal urges into being a hands on mother to her beloved stepson, Harry. Her life is about to go down the pan as she is arrested for driving whilst drunk, with Harry and his friends in the vehicle. She is going to need her friends Miriam and Emily to survive the hellish nightmare and pain, finding herself on the verge of losing everything that matters.
Weisberger's character of Emily is a wonderful creation and her development here is a joy to observe, underneath her pointed put downs and sarcasm beats a compassionate heart, you just have to dig deep to find it. I loved her immersion into suburbia which she detests with a passion, with its sex toy parties and designer vaginas, not to mention the dreaded children, although being idolised and adored by young Maisie, Muriel's daughter, does have her glimpsing a world where perhaps not all children are to be avoided, and just as well, given what happens. I really felt for Kristina as her world collapsed around her, but Miriam and Emily are not going to let their friend go down without the fight of their lives. This is a gloriously lighthearted and comic read, of female friendship, marriage and family. I am hoping Weinberger resurrects Emily again, I cannot wait to see what happens next! Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
Miriam Kagan used to be a high powered lawyer and partner in a prestigious law firm in New York whose life has changed beyond recognition. Feeling that she was missing out on her three children growing up, she and husband, Paul, have relocated to Greenwich. There is an ever growing distance between her and Paul, and full time childcare has its moments but it is often a fraught and exhausting experience, reducing Miriam to living in athletic leisurewear as she piles on the pounds. Clearly, suburban living and its community of wives and mothers is not all it's cracked up to be and there is no-one more able to point this out to Miriam than the in your face, direct and snarky Emily who has come to stay. Former super model Kristina has been married to Senator Graham Harwell, despairing at her inability to conceive, pouring her maternal urges into being a hands on mother to her beloved stepson, Harry. Her life is about to go down the pan as she is arrested for driving whilst drunk, with Harry and his friends in the vehicle. She is going to need her friends Miriam and Emily to survive the hellish nightmare and pain, finding herself on the verge of losing everything that matters.
Weisberger's character of Emily is a wonderful creation and her development here is a joy to observe, underneath her pointed put downs and sarcasm beats a compassionate heart, you just have to dig deep to find it. I loved her immersion into suburbia which she detests with a passion, with its sex toy parties and designer vaginas, not to mention the dreaded children, although being idolised and adored by young Maisie, Muriel's daughter, does have her glimpsing a world where perhaps not all children are to be avoided, and just as well, given what happens. I really felt for Kristina as her world collapsed around her, but Miriam and Emily are not going to let their friend go down without the fight of their lives. This is a gloriously lighthearted and comic read, of female friendship, marriage and family. I am hoping Weinberger resurrects Emily again, I cannot wait to see what happens next! Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
June 1, 2018
4 limoncello* stars to When Life Gives You Lululemons! 🍋 🍋 🍋 🍋
*Limoncello has little to do with this book, but I happen to love limoncello and all things lemon-based!
Enter Emily Charlton, a character from The Devil Wars Prada, and former first assistant to the Miranda Priestly. A successful image consultant in her own right, and set in perfectly coifed Greenwich, Connecticut, everyone is talking about the new neighbor, Emily.
However, Emily feels out of place in the ‘burbs. She’s a Hollywood kind of gal, and since her business has taken a hit of late, she needs new opportunities asap.
And now enter, Karolina Hartwell, the former face of L’Oreal on whom Emily has her sights set. Well, her sights and her hopeful bank account. Karolina has gotten into some trouble, and she needs Emily to bury it.
Add Miriam, a former prestigious lawyer from NYC, now turned stay-at-home mom, to form this triumvirate, and they join forces in figuring out how to survive in the suburbs.
This all may sound like campy thus far, but I have to mention there were some deeper issues at play here. Nothing is as it seems in Greenwich. Emily is a strong woman and a force. It’s fun to watch her do her thing.
When Life Gives You Lululemons is a smart look at women coming together when times are tough and building each other up. The snark and humor was as delicious as the limoncello I’m still craving!
Thank you to Lauren Weisberger, Simon & Schuster, and Edelweiss for the ARC. When Life Gives You Lululemons will be available on June 5, 2018.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
*Limoncello has little to do with this book, but I happen to love limoncello and all things lemon-based!
Enter Emily Charlton, a character from The Devil Wars Prada, and former first assistant to the Miranda Priestly. A successful image consultant in her own right, and set in perfectly coifed Greenwich, Connecticut, everyone is talking about the new neighbor, Emily.
However, Emily feels out of place in the ‘burbs. She’s a Hollywood kind of gal, and since her business has taken a hit of late, she needs new opportunities asap.
And now enter, Karolina Hartwell, the former face of L’Oreal on whom Emily has her sights set. Well, her sights and her hopeful bank account. Karolina has gotten into some trouble, and she needs Emily to bury it.
Add Miriam, a former prestigious lawyer from NYC, now turned stay-at-home mom, to form this triumvirate, and they join forces in figuring out how to survive in the suburbs.
This all may sound like campy thus far, but I have to mention there were some deeper issues at play here. Nothing is as it seems in Greenwich. Emily is a strong woman and a force. It’s fun to watch her do her thing.
When Life Gives You Lululemons is a smart look at women coming together when times are tough and building each other up. The snark and humor was as delicious as the limoncello I’m still craving!
Thank you to Lauren Weisberger, Simon & Schuster, and Edelweiss for the ARC. When Life Gives You Lululemons will be available on June 5, 2018.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
June 11, 2018
4 Sassy Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
She’s baaack... Love when I get to revisit a favorite character and Emily definitely tops my list of all-time favorite characters... “The Devil Wears Prada” is a favorite of mine! Loved all the Snark, laugh out loud moments, and of course the fashion.... oh and I mustn’t forget Maranda, who makes an appearance in this book and is still as vapid as ever....”that’s all...”
Emily is now an image consultant to the stars, living in California... but when supermodel Carolina gets her self in some trouble Emily heads to Greenwich, Connecticut.... greenwich is filled with beautiful mansions and Lululemon wearing mommies... Carolina has been charged with a DUI with kids in the car.... Emily, Carolina, and Miriam, lawyer turned stay at home mom, bond together to fight the charges and the other mothers of Greenwich...
The story is told from all three points of view... I loved all three of these ladies, they were all so much fun and I loved the bond they formed... nothing better than strong female friendships in a book.... if you are a fan of the previous book this is a must-read... filled with all the Snark, fun,and laugh out loud moments of the first book....
Absolutely recommend as a fun beach read or an escape from reality during the heat of summer☀️
*** many thanks to Simon & Schuster for my copy of this book ***
She’s baaack... Love when I get to revisit a favorite character and Emily definitely tops my list of all-time favorite characters... “The Devil Wears Prada” is a favorite of mine! Loved all the Snark, laugh out loud moments, and of course the fashion.... oh and I mustn’t forget Maranda, who makes an appearance in this book and is still as vapid as ever....”that’s all...”
Emily is now an image consultant to the stars, living in California... but when supermodel Carolina gets her self in some trouble Emily heads to Greenwich, Connecticut.... greenwich is filled with beautiful mansions and Lululemon wearing mommies... Carolina has been charged with a DUI with kids in the car.... Emily, Carolina, and Miriam, lawyer turned stay at home mom, bond together to fight the charges and the other mothers of Greenwich...
The story is told from all three points of view... I loved all three of these ladies, they were all so much fun and I loved the bond they formed... nothing better than strong female friendships in a book.... if you are a fan of the previous book this is a must-read... filled with all the Snark, fun,and laugh out loud moments of the first book....
Absolutely recommend as a fun beach read or an escape from reality during the heat of summer☀️
*** many thanks to Simon & Schuster for my copy of this book ***
August 24, 2018
This book is an engaging read full of scandal, drama, and humor featuring suburbanites and wealthy stay-at-home moms.
Emily Charlton was Miranda Priestly's assistant in The Devil Wears Prada, in this book she has moved on from Runaway magazine life and into image consulting in Hollywood.
Karolina, a former super model and now the wife of a senator gets in trouble and Emily heads to the suburbs to help. Miriam used to be a successful and overworked attorney who now finds herself a stay-at-home mom in Greenwich.
The lives of these three women converge and the novel manages to tackle female friendship, marriage, and body-image issues while maintaining a breezy and lighthearted tone.
The story is told from the alternating points of view of Emily, Miriam, and Karolina and takes place in Greenwich, Connecticut. I found it entertaining, humorous, and compelling.
Overall, I liked it and recommend it to readers of contemporary fiction.
Emily Charlton was Miranda Priestly's assistant in The Devil Wears Prada, in this book she has moved on from Runaway magazine life and into image consulting in Hollywood.
Karolina, a former super model and now the wife of a senator gets in trouble and Emily heads to the suburbs to help. Miriam used to be a successful and overworked attorney who now finds herself a stay-at-home mom in Greenwich.
The lives of these three women converge and the novel manages to tackle female friendship, marriage, and body-image issues while maintaining a breezy and lighthearted tone.
The story is told from the alternating points of view of Emily, Miriam, and Karolina and takes place in Greenwich, Connecticut. I found it entertaining, humorous, and compelling.
Overall, I liked it and recommend it to readers of contemporary fiction.
Read
July 26, 2018I don’t think novels like When Life Gives You Lululemons are for me. Actually, I don’t think novels like When Life Gives You Lululemons are very entertaining anymore. I get that the story is supposed to be mocking the very milieu it describes, and yet, given everything that is happening in the world, the story felt inappropriate.
There are two specific areas which bothered me. The first is the obscene amounts of wealth, privilege, and their trappings discussed ad nauseam within the story. I get that it is fun to get a glimpse of how the other half lives, and normally I can have some fun with those stories. When Life Gives You Lululemons to me crosses the line between funny to just plain sad. We don’t need examples of people in positions of power abusing that power to affect others. We have that almost every single hour of every single day and have had that every day since November 6, 2016. We don’t need examples of over-the-top birthday parties where all the girls get $300 blowouts. We don’t need to descriptions of cars that cost $100k or people who have nannies and housekeepers and chefs. Most importantly, we do not need another story about someone in power using it to make the life of someone else miserable because it helps him achieve his goals and because he can. Again, we get too much of that in our daily lives to want to read a story about how wealthy the wealthy really are and how the powerful keep trying to screw over the less powerful.
The other area that bothered me is with the obsession with outward appearances. Between Emily mocking those wearing athleisure wear, Miriam bemoaning her baby weight, and Karolina being described as too thin and sexy – all of which occur numerous times throughout the novel, the mystery of why women have body image problems is a mystery no longer. In fact, so strong is the message that being extremely thin is the only way to be happy and have a healthy sex life that I finished the novel feeling deeply uncomfortable about my own body. I began to question my love of leggings as well as what I wear around the house versus in public. Even worse, I felt disgust at my weight. Novels like When Life Gives You Lululemons only perpetuate negative body stereotypes, and I feel like they have no place in this world anymore.
The thing is, while I suspect Lauren Weisberger is mocking the Greenwich community for its first-world, one-percenter problems, I am not certain this is the case. In fact, I have a sneaking suspicion When Life Gives You Lululemons is meant to be a supposedly fun glimpse into the lives of the über rich, where we find out they are just like us except with a lot more money and people to do their work for them. This is not The Devil Wears Prada with its story of someone who eventually turns down the trappings of the wealthy and fashionable in order to obtain personal happiness. This is a story specifically about those people Andy left – people who are wealthy and fashionable and, let’s face it, petty. While ultimately all three women have to go down paths previously mocked in order to obtain their happiness, the story is just not the same. It is not inspirational but discouraging on many fronts.
Maybe this type of story is your thing. Maybe I just don’t get the genre. But I cannot ignore the way When Life Gives You Lululemons made me feel both while reading and after I finished it. What is supposed to be amusing is disgusting. Plus, the lesson about opening yourself up to happiness where you least expect it gets lost behind the bombardment of top-tier brand names and unending discussions of weight, clothes, and general physical appearances. The entire story is distasteful on many levels, and it is going to take me a long time to get over the feeling of repugnance I feel just thinking about it.
There are two specific areas which bothered me. The first is the obscene amounts of wealth, privilege, and their trappings discussed ad nauseam within the story. I get that it is fun to get a glimpse of how the other half lives, and normally I can have some fun with those stories. When Life Gives You Lululemons to me crosses the line between funny to just plain sad. We don’t need examples of people in positions of power abusing that power to affect others. We have that almost every single hour of every single day and have had that every day since November 6, 2016. We don’t need examples of over-the-top birthday parties where all the girls get $300 blowouts. We don’t need to descriptions of cars that cost $100k or people who have nannies and housekeepers and chefs. Most importantly, we do not need another story about someone in power using it to make the life of someone else miserable because it helps him achieve his goals and because he can. Again, we get too much of that in our daily lives to want to read a story about how wealthy the wealthy really are and how the powerful keep trying to screw over the less powerful.
The other area that bothered me is with the obsession with outward appearances. Between Emily mocking those wearing athleisure wear, Miriam bemoaning her baby weight, and Karolina being described as too thin and sexy – all of which occur numerous times throughout the novel, the mystery of why women have body image problems is a mystery no longer. In fact, so strong is the message that being extremely thin is the only way to be happy and have a healthy sex life that I finished the novel feeling deeply uncomfortable about my own body. I began to question my love of leggings as well as what I wear around the house versus in public. Even worse, I felt disgust at my weight. Novels like When Life Gives You Lululemons only perpetuate negative body stereotypes, and I feel like they have no place in this world anymore.
The thing is, while I suspect Lauren Weisberger is mocking the Greenwich community for its first-world, one-percenter problems, I am not certain this is the case. In fact, I have a sneaking suspicion When Life Gives You Lululemons is meant to be a supposedly fun glimpse into the lives of the über rich, where we find out they are just like us except with a lot more money and people to do their work for them. This is not The Devil Wears Prada with its story of someone who eventually turns down the trappings of the wealthy and fashionable in order to obtain personal happiness. This is a story specifically about those people Andy left – people who are wealthy and fashionable and, let’s face it, petty. While ultimately all three women have to go down paths previously mocked in order to obtain their happiness, the story is just not the same. It is not inspirational but discouraging on many fronts.
Maybe this type of story is your thing. Maybe I just don’t get the genre. But I cannot ignore the way When Life Gives You Lululemons made me feel both while reading and after I finished it. What is supposed to be amusing is disgusting. Plus, the lesson about opening yourself up to happiness where you least expect it gets lost behind the bombardment of top-tier brand names and unending discussions of weight, clothes, and general physical appearances. The entire story is distasteful on many levels, and it is going to take me a long time to get over the feeling of repugnance I feel just thinking about it.
July 18, 2018
I...don’t even really know what to say about this book. It’s basically poolside trash. Over-the-top absolute trash. Everyone is a ridiculous stereotype. Soo much sex talk it’s obnoxious. One character has a one-night stand to make herself feel better about her husband’s betrayal. Another deliberately sexts both her husband and another guy she thinks is hot. Sex toy parties, self medicating with pills and alcohol, wandering eyes, mistrust, and one chapter entitled “Home to the Custom Fit Vagina.” I actually feel dumber for reading it (although I ended up skimming 2/3 of the way through just to find out the resolution). Not recommended at all even to die-hard Devil Wears Prada fans (and actually the only connection is that Emily Charlton is a main character ten years older and Miranda Priestly appears only as a peripheral character.)
June 24, 2018
This really isn't my genre but I fancied something fun and relaxing as a change and this turned out to be a quick and easy read that didn't tax my brain. I find that sometimes it works well to give a different genre a go even if you find you cannot wait to return to your usual type of book.
"The Wives" is perfect for the beach or a summer holiday. I found it wasn't too twee that I couldn't bear it unlike some chick lit. All in all, an amusing and glitzy experience from the bestselling author of "The Devil Wears Prada."
Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC. I was not required to post a review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
"The Wives" is perfect for the beach or a summer holiday. I found it wasn't too twee that I couldn't bear it unlike some chick lit. All in all, an amusing and glitzy experience from the bestselling author of "The Devil Wears Prada."
Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC. I was not required to post a review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 6, 2018
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
I had ZERO intentions on ever reading this when it kept appearing on both my GR and Instagram feeds. While I’ll give props where they are due admit that title is über catchy and 5-Star worthy all by its lonesome, merely the mention of the word “Lululemon” tends to make me a little . . . . .
But then I saw that it was a DWP follow-up and featured EMILY no less. God how I loved bitchy Emily . . . . .
And it reminded me of all the book-reading good times I used to have back when I still had a waistline and some estrogen – so despite my best efforts to be one and done when it comes to books in a series I found myself breaking my own rule for like the umpteenth time this year and . . . . . .
Okay, so the story here is about Emily who has made her way from the first assistant’s desk at Runway to a “Rachel Zoe” of sorts who not only makes her clients look good, but covers their tracks when they do things that make them look bad. Emily’s clients have been dropping like flies for a newer make and model and she finds herself unable to put a positive spin on her most famous client’s most recent escapade . . . .
Emily decides to headfor the away from the Hills and to her old friend Miriam’s place in Greenwich. It’s there that she will learn how to navigate a different sort of water – one full of overpriced yoga pants and overachieving stay-at-home moms. It might even be the place to revamp her career and flip the script on the story behind Miriam’s friend Yolanda’s DUI and crumbling marriage.
What can I say? This is the summer of the Mom Com for me. Apparently I’ve matured a little as well because I sort of found Emily to be insufferable for quite a good chunk of this third go ‘round. The good news is I made a potential new BFF in Miriam. And Karolina? I channeled my girl crush and pictured a younger version of one my fave former housewhores . . . .
(And you just KNOW that smarmy David Foster would probably try to sell some bullshit to the tabloids in an attempt to not make him look like the vile uggo he is just like Karolina’s husband.) I didn’t even have to feel bad about my fixation on/addiction to the Hos either : )
“I feel like we just stepped into an episode of Housewives. Only without all the screaming. And with much better taste.”
The only other thing that didn’t quite work for me ????
Go figure, right? Probably some wrongreading happened, but seriously there was zero chance my cold dead heart was going to go for that ending.
Still an absolute delightful trip down memory lane for me and one I’ll happily round my 3.5 Stars UP rather than down for a change.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
I had ZERO intentions on ever reading this when it kept appearing on both my GR and Instagram feeds. While I’ll give props where they are due admit that title is über catchy and 5-Star worthy all by its lonesome, merely the mention of the word “Lululemon” tends to make me a little . . . . .
But then I saw that it was a DWP follow-up and featured EMILY no less. God how I loved bitchy Emily . . . . .
And it reminded me of all the book-reading good times I used to have back when I still had a waistline and some estrogen – so despite my best efforts to be one and done when it comes to books in a series I found myself breaking my own rule for like the umpteenth time this year and . . . . . .
Okay, so the story here is about Emily who has made her way from the first assistant’s desk at Runway to a “Rachel Zoe” of sorts who not only makes her clients look good, but covers their tracks when they do things that make them look bad. Emily’s clients have been dropping like flies for a newer make and model and she finds herself unable to put a positive spin on her most famous client’s most recent escapade . . . .
Emily decides to head
What can I say? This is the summer of the Mom Com for me. Apparently I’ve matured a little as well because I sort of found Emily to be insufferable for quite a good chunk of this third go ‘round. The good news is I made a potential new BFF in Miriam. And Karolina? I channeled my girl crush and pictured a younger version of one my fave former housewhores . . . .
(And you just KNOW that smarmy David Foster would probably try to sell some bullshit to the tabloids in an attempt to not make him look like the vile uggo he is just like Karolina’s husband.) I didn’t even have to feel bad about my fixation on/addiction to the Hos either : )
“I feel like we just stepped into an episode of Housewives. Only without all the screaming. And with much better taste.”
The only other thing that didn’t quite work for me ????
Go figure, right? Probably some wrongreading happened, but seriously there was zero chance my cold dead heart was going to go for that ending.
Still an absolute delightful trip down memory lane for me and one I’ll happily round my 3.5 Stars UP rather than down for a change.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
September 21, 2019
Firstly I wasn’t aware that this was the third book in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ series.
I’ve not seen film or read any of the previous books, whilst the U.K. editions of When Life Gives You Lulelemons are being marketed as The Wives I think I was expecting a completely different book!
Nevertheless I thought I’d persevere and actually it was surprisingly fun!
Even though I didn’t know the series main characters but as this story opens with a sizeable gap from the previous book, this not only allows for a reintroduction to long term fans it also gives new readers a chance to get up to speed.
All the characters were well written and gave a great snap shoot to this housewives suburban lives. As they’re all reaching their mid-30’s, the conversation of their dwindling sex lives was most amusing.
Especially a certain party!
It’s something I wouldn’t normally read but still found it enjoyable, think long term fans will be satisfied with this entry in the series.
I’ve not seen film or read any of the previous books, whilst the U.K. editions of When Life Gives You Lulelemons are being marketed as The Wives I think I was expecting a completely different book!
Nevertheless I thought I’d persevere and actually it was surprisingly fun!
Even though I didn’t know the series main characters but as this story opens with a sizeable gap from the previous book, this not only allows for a reintroduction to long term fans it also gives new readers a chance to get up to speed.
All the characters were well written and gave a great snap shoot to this housewives suburban lives. As they’re all reaching their mid-30’s, the conversation of their dwindling sex lives was most amusing.
Especially a certain party!
It’s something I wouldn’t normally read but still found it enjoyable, think long term fans will be satisfied with this entry in the series.
April 23, 2018
Sometimes you need the perfect, lighthearted and hilarious read to cleanse that thriller palate and this book does the job! I haven't read The Devil Wears Prada but I have seen the movie and it's one of my favorites. I DID read Weisberger's The Singles Game back in 2016 and absolutely loved it so was THRILLED when this copy came in the mail for me!
This book brings in Emily, Miranda Priestley's ex-assistant, as an image consultant to the stars who is losing popularity to a younger version who is more in tune with today's social media which makes her start to question herself. Then there's Miriam, who has moved to the suburbs with her husband and kids, quitting her job and feeling predictably underwhelmed in all aspects. She's the link between Emily and Karolina - a former supermodel who gets busted for a DUI while driving her step-son and his friends in her own neighborhood. This somersaults into political and social devastation and now she must count on her friends to help her through this horrible situation.
What I absolutely love about this story is the coming together of these three very different women as they bond and figure their lives out. At any age, and in any station, you never stop growing, things never stop changing and insecurities regarding infidelity, career moves, body image and self worth come to a head in this roller coaster we call life. And who better to take these crazy rides, other than two amazing women who you can consider your best friends?
This makes me think of my two best friends from college. Twenty years plus and we are all radically different from each other and yet through it all, we have been there for each other through thick and thin and that bond is a sisterhood only others who have the same relationships can understand. I was just discussing with someone earlier about how at a younger age you think that once you hit your 40s (or even sooner sometimes), you think the drama and bad decision making will just disappear and you'll fall into the routine you're meant to be set in at that age. I'm living proof that is NOT true. 🤣 Really not a whole lot changes and this book just goes to show that even in these "richer" lives, that there are still drama to be had and that nothing is ever as it seems at face value.
Delightfully funny and with the best chapter headings I've seen in a LONG time, I highly recommend this if you're in the need for something hilarious and entertaining. This is pure fun, somehow incredibly relatable and extremely quotable.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster for this hilarious copy!
This book brings in Emily, Miranda Priestley's ex-assistant, as an image consultant to the stars who is losing popularity to a younger version who is more in tune with today's social media which makes her start to question herself. Then there's Miriam, who has moved to the suburbs with her husband and kids, quitting her job and feeling predictably underwhelmed in all aspects. She's the link between Emily and Karolina - a former supermodel who gets busted for a DUI while driving her step-son and his friends in her own neighborhood. This somersaults into political and social devastation and now she must count on her friends to help her through this horrible situation.
What I absolutely love about this story is the coming together of these three very different women as they bond and figure their lives out. At any age, and in any station, you never stop growing, things never stop changing and insecurities regarding infidelity, career moves, body image and self worth come to a head in this roller coaster we call life. And who better to take these crazy rides, other than two amazing women who you can consider your best friends?
This makes me think of my two best friends from college. Twenty years plus and we are all radically different from each other and yet through it all, we have been there for each other through thick and thin and that bond is a sisterhood only others who have the same relationships can understand. I was just discussing with someone earlier about how at a younger age you think that once you hit your 40s (or even sooner sometimes), you think the drama and bad decision making will just disappear and you'll fall into the routine you're meant to be set in at that age. I'm living proof that is NOT true. 🤣 Really not a whole lot changes and this book just goes to show that even in these "richer" lives, that there are still drama to be had and that nothing is ever as it seems at face value.
Delightfully funny and with the best chapter headings I've seen in a LONG time, I highly recommend this if you're in the need for something hilarious and entertaining. This is pure fun, somehow incredibly relatable and extremely quotable.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster for this hilarious copy!
May 27, 2018
I have to say that so far the summer books I’ve had the pleasure of reading have really been outstanding, I think there’s always a small group of amazing books released each summer but this year I feel like the stakes have been raised, and Weisberger took things to a whole new level with this one. If you’re a fan of The Devil Wears Prada (and seriously, who isn’t?!) you’ll gobble this one up. If you’re new to this series you’ll still love it, it’s not necessary to have read the previous books but they’re all fun so you should.
You have three points of view here; Emily, Karolina and Miriam. All three are polar opposites but fun and entertaining in their own right. Emily will always be my favorite, her biting, acerbic wit is legendary and her pop culture references are on point. This book is uber hip and up to the minute AND it’s funny as hell. It’s scandalous, emotional, hilarious and compulsive, I can’t think of the last time I had so much fun with a book.
Grab this one and head to a pool with a cocktail and be prepared to devour it in one sitting, theglitz will dazzle you and the drama will shock you and make you laugh, the ideal light read for summer is here!
When Life Gives You Luluemons in three words: Delicious, Scandalous and Witty.
You have three points of view here; Emily, Karolina and Miriam. All three are polar opposites but fun and entertaining in their own right. Emily will always be my favorite, her biting, acerbic wit is legendary and her pop culture references are on point. This book is uber hip and up to the minute AND it’s funny as hell. It’s scandalous, emotional, hilarious and compulsive, I can’t think of the last time I had so much fun with a book.
Grab this one and head to a pool with a cocktail and be prepared to devour it in one sitting, theglitz will dazzle you and the drama will shock you and make you laugh, the ideal light read for summer is here!
When Life Gives You Luluemons in three words: Delicious, Scandalous and Witty.
July 27, 2018
This is what gives ‘chick-lit’ a bad name. I admit I adored Emily in The Devil Wears Prada as played by actress Emily Blunt. This is Weisberger’s third offering in that series and I was looking forward to laughing at Emily’s antics once again. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. The characters were more like caricatures than actual human beings. They were superficial and very self-centered. Who wants to read about that—not me.
August 12, 2020
I listened to this audiobook last year and loved it. It was actually my first book from the series.
I'm not sure why I didn't update this sooner. It was seeing Kim ~ It’s All About the Thrill's review today that reminded me how much I enjoyed this. If you have a chance check out her excellent review.
5 stars!!!
I'm not sure why I didn't update this sooner. It was seeing Kim ~ It’s All About the Thrill's review today that reminded me how much I enjoyed this. If you have a chance check out her excellent review.
5 stars!!!
August 12, 2020
New York Times bestselling author Lauren Weisberger returns with a novel starring one of her favorite characters from The Devil Wears Prada—Emily Charlton, first assistant to Miranda Priestly, now a highly successful image consultant who’s just landed the client of a lifetime.
Welcome to Greenwich, CT, where the lawns and the women are perfectly manicured, the Tito’s and sodas are extra strong, and everyone has something to say about the infamous new neighbor.
Let’s be clear: Emily Charlton, Miranda Priestly’s ex-assistant, does not do the suburbs. She’s working in Hollywood as an image consultant to the stars, but recently, Emily’s lost a few clients. She’s hopeless with social media. The new guard is nipping at her heels. She needs a big opportunity, and she needs it now.
Karolina Hartwell is as A-list as they come. She’s the former face of L’Oreal. A mega-supermodel recognized the world over. And now, the gorgeous wife of the newly elected senator from New York, Graham, who also has his eye on the presidency. It’s all very Kennedy-esque, right down to the public philandering and Karolina’s arrest for a DUI—with a Suburban full of other people’s children.
Miriam is the link between them. Until recently she was a partner at one of Manhattan’s most prestigious law firms. But when Miriam moves to Greenwich and takes time off to spend with her children, she never could have predicted that being stay-at-home mom in an uber-wealthy town could have more pitfalls than a stressful legal career.
Emily, Karolina, and Miriam make an unlikely trio, but they desperately need each other. Together, they’ll navigate the social landmines of life in America’s favorite suburb on steroids, revealing the truths—and the lies—that simmer just below the glittering surface. With her signature biting style, Lauren Weisberger offers a dazzling look into another sexy, over-the-top world, where nothing is as it appears.
I could not put this book down. It was a real turn pager... funny with sex and a mystery.
I hated the second part of this series and didn't really care to read this because of it but I'm so glad I did (plus I really enjoy Lauren Weisberger's books and I'm a loyal reader).
I highly recommend reading this... Emily is a bitch with a heart of gold. Miriam is in the stage of her life where I believe every woman has been or will be in. Karolina is the mystery of the whole book.... did she do it? Did her husband set her up? Why would he if he did?
And, game changer.... for some reason this book made me want to have the surban life in Greenwich. Yikes! Never thought I would consider leaving NYC.
Bonus... I feel you don't need to read the other two parts to the series to read this. And, double bonus... my boyfriend and I were relaxing at my parents's house and while I was swimming in the pool he was reading this book... and he didn't want to put it down! So that alone should make you want to read this book.
Welcome to Greenwich, CT, where the lawns and the women are perfectly manicured, the Tito’s and sodas are extra strong, and everyone has something to say about the infamous new neighbor.
Let’s be clear: Emily Charlton, Miranda Priestly’s ex-assistant, does not do the suburbs. She’s working in Hollywood as an image consultant to the stars, but recently, Emily’s lost a few clients. She’s hopeless with social media. The new guard is nipping at her heels. She needs a big opportunity, and she needs it now.
Karolina Hartwell is as A-list as they come. She’s the former face of L’Oreal. A mega-supermodel recognized the world over. And now, the gorgeous wife of the newly elected senator from New York, Graham, who also has his eye on the presidency. It’s all very Kennedy-esque, right down to the public philandering and Karolina’s arrest for a DUI—with a Suburban full of other people’s children.
Miriam is the link between them. Until recently she was a partner at one of Manhattan’s most prestigious law firms. But when Miriam moves to Greenwich and takes time off to spend with her children, she never could have predicted that being stay-at-home mom in an uber-wealthy town could have more pitfalls than a stressful legal career.
Emily, Karolina, and Miriam make an unlikely trio, but they desperately need each other. Together, they’ll navigate the social landmines of life in America’s favorite suburb on steroids, revealing the truths—and the lies—that simmer just below the glittering surface. With her signature biting style, Lauren Weisberger offers a dazzling look into another sexy, over-the-top world, where nothing is as it appears.
I could not put this book down. It was a real turn pager... funny with sex and a mystery.
I hated the second part of this series and didn't really care to read this because of it but I'm so glad I did (plus I really enjoy Lauren Weisberger's books and I'm a loyal reader).
I highly recommend reading this... Emily is a bitch with a heart of gold. Miriam is in the stage of her life where I believe every woman has been or will be in. Karolina is the mystery of the whole book.... did she do it? Did her husband set her up? Why would he if he did?
And, game changer.... for some reason this book made me want to have the surban life in Greenwich. Yikes! Never thought I would consider leaving NYC.
Bonus... I feel you don't need to read the other two parts to the series to read this. And, double bonus... my boyfriend and I were relaxing at my parents's house and while I was swimming in the pool he was reading this book... and he didn't want to put it down! So that alone should make you want to read this book.
June 18, 2018
This was my first book by Lauren Weisberger and I enjoyed every minute of reading it! I laughed and I cursed with Emily, Miriam and Karolina, like a was their friend. I loved how the story is told from their different perspectives. I have the two first books of the series somewhere in my house, and I need to find them, I don’t want to leave these characters for too long, I loved them too much!
Thanks to the publisher for my e-copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to the publisher for my e-copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2025
Moral of the story: Don’t get involved with a politician.
Let's just say if I were older I'd have liked this book very much.
Let's just say if I were older I'd have liked this book very much.
October 23, 2025
2.5💫
maybe i would have enjoyed this more if i read the previous two books, but i just didn’t care about this story or the characters. the storyline was dumb and the book was weird. i love drama but this was just so bland
maybe i would have enjoyed this more if i read the previous two books, but i just didn’t care about this story or the characters. the storyline was dumb and the book was weird. i love drama but this was just so bland
July 31, 2018
This book left me feeling sad for humanity, irritated that this terrible book and author are so popular, and frustrated that it’s the kind of entertainment that people crave. I also resent that the author characterized LA so negatively when in fact she is rolling around in millions of dollars because of Hollywood. I hope this book doesn’t become a movie.
July 1, 2018
Have you ever finished a string of dark and emotional reads and felt like a book that is lighter - one that will make you laugh rather than cry? When Life Gives You Lululemons is the PERFECT book in this instance! This was a delightful read and just what I needed. And although it is from the series The Devil Wears Prada, it is stand alone so doesn't require familiarity with the other plots and characters.
The book has a lot of girl power and is somewhat satirical about the whole stepford wife scenario in Greenwich, a suburb of New York. I loved it! The story alternates perspectives between three women: Emily, Miriam and Karolina. Emily is a badass no nonsense gal who cleans up tarnished reputations among the stars and A celebs. Miriam is a Harvard educated lawyer turned stay-at-home wife who is trying to fit in with the other glamor mamas while instilling good values in her 3 young children. Karolina is a former supermodel married to a Senator with big dreams to one day become the president of the US. She is rich and sexy and although unable to conceive children of her own, is full on mama to her stepson whom she has practically raised on her own. When Karolina is stopped by police while driving her son and his friends and charged with a DUI, things start to go downhill for her. Secrets emerge and her friend Miriam comes to her aide bringing along Emily for support. The hilarious adventures of these three women touched my heart and made me smile.
Absolutely recommend if you're in the mood for a hearty dose of chick lit and an evening full of giggles.
The book has a lot of girl power and is somewhat satirical about the whole stepford wife scenario in Greenwich, a suburb of New York. I loved it! The story alternates perspectives between three women: Emily, Miriam and Karolina. Emily is a badass no nonsense gal who cleans up tarnished reputations among the stars and A celebs. Miriam is a Harvard educated lawyer turned stay-at-home wife who is trying to fit in with the other glamor mamas while instilling good values in her 3 young children. Karolina is a former supermodel married to a Senator with big dreams to one day become the president of the US. She is rich and sexy and although unable to conceive children of her own, is full on mama to her stepson whom she has practically raised on her own. When Karolina is stopped by police while driving her son and his friends and charged with a DUI, things start to go downhill for her. Secrets emerge and her friend Miriam comes to her aide bringing along Emily for support. The hilarious adventures of these three women touched my heart and made me smile.
Absolutely recommend if you're in the mood for a hearty dose of chick lit and an evening full of giggles.
December 11, 2024
This was a lot of fun and a bazillion times better than The Devil Wears Prada. I had skipped the second book in the series because it had gotten such bad reviews. I almost didn't read this one either based on these same books for the second, but I saw some of the reviews were pretty good. Glad I read it, and now I'm kind of wondering if I ought to give it a try. Also really wished there'd been a fourth book!
August 22, 2018
4 Super Fun Stars!
This chick-lit, contemporary fiction was so fun to read, I had to give it 4 Stars!
SUMMARY
A decade after The Devil Wears Prada, Emily is a celebrity publicist, living in LA, happily married and still fabulous! Her BFF, Marion has recently relocated to Greenwich, CT and left her career to be a full time stay at home mom to her three children. Although their lives are on very different paths, they have stayed close.
One day, on a work related visit to NYC, Emily stops in to visit Marion. Since Emily's husband is on an extended business trip out of the country, Emily decides to spend the night with Marion. Somehow, one night turns into several weeks and Emily finds herself reluctantly immersed in suburban culture.
In the meantime, a scandal breaks. A former Victoria's Secret model / current senator's wife, Karolina, is arrested and charged with a DUI. To make things even worse, she has her son and several of his friends in the car at the time of the arrest. The DUI, along with endangering the lives of the children, turns into a huge reputation-ruining media storm. As it turns out, Karolina, is a very dear old friend of Marion's and Marion is 100% sure the whole thing is a terrible misunderstanding. As she and Emily mobilize to defuse the situation, all kinds of crazy hijinks ensue, taking the reader on a super entertaining, girl-powered ride.
WHAT I LOVED
It would be impossible for me to not to have fun reading this book! I love Emily! She's is that friend who would never beat around the bush! If you have gained weight, she'll let you know. If your outfit is unflattering, she will let you know. BUT...she is exactly who you need on your side if you're ever in a crisis. She's sarcastic, decisive, smart as a whip and has no fear! She is the character who truly keeps the plot moving forward.
The over-the-top Greenwich, CT descriptions were awesome. Loved the social scene! The bored housewives decked out in head to toe Lulu, day drinking, discussing all kinds of surgical enhancements and having outrageous parties. So deliciously fun!! I hope none of it’s exaggerated, I love to think that somewhere a group of bored housewives sit in a perfectly decorated living room each week, decked out in their workout clothes, being waited on by a uniformed housekeeper day drinking mimosas. Oh, the struggle is so real for these women!
Most of all, I loved the friendship between the three main characters. I loved the way they pulled together and took charge, each bringing their own strengths to the table. They weren't perfect, they made mistakes sometimes but they figured out how to fix them. They were fabulous!! What a great team they made!
WHAT I DIDN'T LOVE
The book was a tad bit predictable and trite at times, but so darn fun that I really didn't care!
OVERALL
Did I mention that this book is fun to read??? This book would be a fantastic beach read. Sadly, I was not reading it on a beach but it was a great way to end my summer.
This chick-lit, contemporary fiction was so fun to read, I had to give it 4 Stars!
SUMMARY
A decade after The Devil Wears Prada, Emily is a celebrity publicist, living in LA, happily married and still fabulous! Her BFF, Marion has recently relocated to Greenwich, CT and left her career to be a full time stay at home mom to her three children. Although their lives are on very different paths, they have stayed close.
One day, on a work related visit to NYC, Emily stops in to visit Marion. Since Emily's husband is on an extended business trip out of the country, Emily decides to spend the night with Marion. Somehow, one night turns into several weeks and Emily finds herself reluctantly immersed in suburban culture.
In the meantime, a scandal breaks. A former Victoria's Secret model / current senator's wife, Karolina, is arrested and charged with a DUI. To make things even worse, she has her son and several of his friends in the car at the time of the arrest. The DUI, along with endangering the lives of the children, turns into a huge reputation-ruining media storm. As it turns out, Karolina, is a very dear old friend of Marion's and Marion is 100% sure the whole thing is a terrible misunderstanding. As she and Emily mobilize to defuse the situation, all kinds of crazy hijinks ensue, taking the reader on a super entertaining, girl-powered ride.
WHAT I LOVED
It would be impossible for me to not to have fun reading this book! I love Emily! She's is that friend who would never beat around the bush! If you have gained weight, she'll let you know. If your outfit is unflattering, she will let you know. BUT...she is exactly who you need on your side if you're ever in a crisis. She's sarcastic, decisive, smart as a whip and has no fear! She is the character who truly keeps the plot moving forward.
The over-the-top Greenwich, CT descriptions were awesome. Loved the social scene! The bored housewives decked out in head to toe Lulu, day drinking, discussing all kinds of surgical enhancements and having outrageous parties. So deliciously fun!! I hope none of it’s exaggerated, I love to think that somewhere a group of bored housewives sit in a perfectly decorated living room each week, decked out in their workout clothes, being waited on by a uniformed housekeeper day drinking mimosas. Oh, the struggle is so real for these women!
Most of all, I loved the friendship between the three main characters. I loved the way they pulled together and took charge, each bringing their own strengths to the table. They weren't perfect, they made mistakes sometimes but they figured out how to fix them. They were fabulous!! What a great team they made!
WHAT I DIDN'T LOVE
The book was a tad bit predictable and trite at times, but so darn fun that I really didn't care!
OVERALL
Did I mention that this book is fun to read??? This book would be a fantastic beach read. Sadly, I was not reading it on a beach but it was a great way to end my summer.
July 2, 2018
4 stars
The Devil Wears Prada has to be one of my all-time favorite “chick lit” books, so when I saw that Weisberger put out a book featuring the one and only Emily Charlton, I knew I had to have it. And I am glad that I did.
This was the perfect “break” from my usual genre and was just what I needed. I had been in a reading slump, reading several books in a row that I just did not enjoy. The timing of reading When Life Gives You Lululemons couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s light (but not too light!), breezy and the perfect beach read. As a matter of fact, that is exactly where I read this book, cover to cover.
WLGYL is laugh out loud funny in parts and touching in parts. I loved every second of it, just like I loved every second of TDWP. The story is told in alternating viewpoints of Emily, Miriam and Karolina, and all three had their own storyline, as well as the one they have together. Their friendship and growth are heartwarming and I cannot recommend this book enough. If you loved TDWP or a simply just a fan of Chick lit or Women’s Fiction, I highly recommend this book. It is warm, funny, smart and Emily can certainly carry a story.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for my copy of this book via Edelweiss
The Devil Wears Prada has to be one of my all-time favorite “chick lit” books, so when I saw that Weisberger put out a book featuring the one and only Emily Charlton, I knew I had to have it. And I am glad that I did.
This was the perfect “break” from my usual genre and was just what I needed. I had been in a reading slump, reading several books in a row that I just did not enjoy. The timing of reading When Life Gives You Lululemons couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s light (but not too light!), breezy and the perfect beach read. As a matter of fact, that is exactly where I read this book, cover to cover.
WLGYL is laugh out loud funny in parts and touching in parts. I loved every second of it, just like I loved every second of TDWP. The story is told in alternating viewpoints of Emily, Miriam and Karolina, and all three had their own storyline, as well as the one they have together. Their friendship and growth are heartwarming and I cannot recommend this book enough. If you loved TDWP or a simply just a fan of Chick lit or Women’s Fiction, I highly recommend this book. It is warm, funny, smart and Emily can certainly carry a story.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for my copy of this book via Edelweiss
May 13, 2018
This is my first book by Lauren Weisberger. These housewives are over the top!! But it was a fun read and let’s you see how the “other side” lives! Lol I really loved Emily’s character - she was witty and had some great off the top statements to make!! She didn’t care who heard it - she just told it like it was! I received this ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 1, 2018
Emily Charlton---the same Emily who worked for Miranda Priestly (in The Devil Wears Prada)---is now a publicity manager to the stars. She's a pro at smoothing over delicate situations for Hollywood elite, but, unfortunately, lately she's losing customers to a younger, hipper version of herself. Frustrated and in a rut, she jumps at the chance to help Connecticut-based Karolina Hartwell, a former supermodel turned senator's wife, who's just been arrested for driving under the influence. Karolina's husband, Graham, will have nothing to do with her, even though Karolina swears she was completely sober when arrested. While Emily sorts out the suspicious situation in Greenwich, she also gets the opportunity to visit with her longtime friend (and former hotshot lawyer, now a stay-at-home mom), Miriam. The three women end up becoming good friends and help each other through some tough moments. And in the process, Emily discovers that the suburbs are not so tame and boring as she once thought...
* * * * *
There are (apparently) a whole series of books starring characters from The Devil Wears Prada. I've only read the main book (which I didn't care for, honestly), but I found I was able to easily follow along with this one despite having not read any of the others.
And, truly, I loved it! Emily is such a great character---sassy and surprising, inappropriate and almost completely unapologetic. I didn't agree with all her opinions, but her confidence is refreshing and fun.
I also love the story. It's layered and unexpected. The book moves quickly but isn't predictable. I wish there were less focus on weight and (what I consider to be) eating disorders, but still. There were so many times that I laughed out loud. I really hope this one gets made into a movie.
Thank you to Simon Schuster for the advanced reader copy!
See more of my reviews at www.bugbugbooks.com!
* * * * *
There are (apparently) a whole series of books starring characters from The Devil Wears Prada. I've only read the main book (which I didn't care for, honestly), but I found I was able to easily follow along with this one despite having not read any of the others.
And, truly, I loved it! Emily is such a great character---sassy and surprising, inappropriate and almost completely unapologetic. I didn't agree with all her opinions, but her confidence is refreshing and fun.
I also love the story. It's layered and unexpected. The book moves quickly but isn't predictable. I wish there were less focus on weight and (what I consider to be) eating disorders, but still. There were so many times that I laughed out loud. I really hope this one gets made into a movie.
Thank you to Simon Schuster for the advanced reader copy!
See more of my reviews at www.bugbugbooks.com!
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