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Textual Healing
Few people have to deal with a haiku-speaking flower-shop-owning ninja every day on their way to work. Unfortunately for Andrew Connor, he is one of those people.
And poor Andrew, his week has been a rough one. His former bestseller, Chasing Fireflies, is on clearance at Barnes & Noble for $1.37, his girlfriend left him for a corporate America action figure, and he's been tricked into joining Textual Healing, a support group for writers who can't seem to write anymore.
Dealing with his employees at his failing used bookshop, a strange new love interest from the Midwest, and a pet sugar-glider that has somehow managed to destroy his entire apartment... when will he ever find the time to put pen to paper again?
A quirky comedy set in present day New York and New Jersey, Textual Healing follows the story of Andrew, a self-deprecating, once famous author, his small bookstore in Hoboken, and the colorful characters that surround him.
And poor Andrew, his week has been a rough one. His former bestseller, Chasing Fireflies, is on clearance at Barnes & Noble for $1.37, his girlfriend left him for a corporate America action figure, and he's been tricked into joining Textual Healing, a support group for writers who can't seem to write anymore.
Dealing with his employees at his failing used bookshop, a strange new love interest from the Midwest, and a pet sugar-glider that has somehow managed to destroy his entire apartment... when will he ever find the time to put pen to paper again?
A quirky comedy set in present day New York and New Jersey, Textual Healing follows the story of Andrew, a self-deprecating, once famous author, his small bookstore in Hoboken, and the colorful characters that surround him.
280 pages, Paperback
First published November 19, 2010
402 people want to read
About the author
Eric Smith
21 books894 followersEric Smith is a Young Adult author and literary agent living in Philadelphia.
His next book, Jagged Little Pill: The Novel, a collaboration with Alanis Morissette, Diablo Cody, and Glen Ballard, will be published with Abrams in April 2022. It’s an adaptation of the Grammy and Tony award winning musical.
His latest books include You Can Go Your Own Way (Inkyard Press) and the acclaimed anthology Battle of the Bands (Candlewick), co-edited with award-winning author Lauren Gibaldi. It’s currently being adapted for film by Playground Entertainment.
His novel Don’t Read the Comments was a YALSA 2021 Best Fiction for Young Adults selection. The paperback is out now.
He has short stories and essays in the anthologies Color Outside the Lines by Sangu Mandanna (Soho Teen), Body Talk by Kelly Jensen (Algonquin), Allies by Dana Alison Levy and Shakirah Bourne (DK), All Signs Point to Yes by Candice Montgomery, cara davis-araux, and Adrianne Russell (Inkyard), and Adoptee to Adoptee by Nicole Chung and Shannon Gibney (Harper).
His other books include the IndieBound bestseller The Geek’s Guide to Dating (Quirk), Inked (Bloomsbury), the anthology Welcome Home (Flux), and contemporary fantasy novel The Girl and the Grove (Flux).
His next book, Jagged Little Pill: The Novel, a collaboration with Alanis Morissette, Diablo Cody, and Glen Ballard, will be published with Abrams in April 2022. It’s an adaptation of the Grammy and Tony award winning musical.
His latest books include You Can Go Your Own Way (Inkyard Press) and the acclaimed anthology Battle of the Bands (Candlewick), co-edited with award-winning author Lauren Gibaldi. It’s currently being adapted for film by Playground Entertainment.
His novel Don’t Read the Comments was a YALSA 2021 Best Fiction for Young Adults selection. The paperback is out now.
He has short stories and essays in the anthologies Color Outside the Lines by Sangu Mandanna (Soho Teen), Body Talk by Kelly Jensen (Algonquin), Allies by Dana Alison Levy and Shakirah Bourne (DK), All Signs Point to Yes by Candice Montgomery, cara davis-araux, and Adrianne Russell (Inkyard), and Adoptee to Adoptee by Nicole Chung and Shannon Gibney (Harper).
His other books include the IndieBound bestseller The Geek’s Guide to Dating (Quirk), Inked (Bloomsbury), the anthology Welcome Home (Flux), and contemporary fantasy novel The Girl and the Grove (Flux).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 11, 2012
A great word for this book is "quirky," and I'm a huge sucker for quirky books, I know, I know some people raise their eyebrows or frown at quirky (some of you may be even doing that now) but look at other reviews of this book... it's quirky, 'nuff said. As a whole the book could be called a great romantic comedy, but it is loaded with pop culture references sort of like "Scott Pilgrim" or "Dash and Lily's Book of Dares," and I got a good laugh from those. But really, what's not to love about a book that effortlessly changes from love, to sugar gliders and ninjas? I submit to you my friends, it's nearly impossible.
I haven't read a story in a while where I got so totally wrapped up in the story that I laughed out loud, usually I can contain myself. Smith wrote some great memorable characters too, characters that I really cared about. If I had to compare, when describing this book to a friend I said it was like Hornby's "High Fidelity," which is one of my favorite books ever, but with a used book store instead of music store. "Textual Healing" is the strongest debut efforts of a writer I've read in a while. Smith writes very candidly with a brilliantly descriptive style that keeps the pages turning. Not to mention it's packed with references for literary and general geeks alike, but that's not what makes Textual Healing a winner. What does is among the hilariously unlikely situations the book's protagonist gets himself into, there is an undeniable human element that all of us can relate to.
Back to the characters, I know everyone has mentioned it when reviewing this book but come on, how can you not love a ninja who owns a flower shop and only speaks in haiku form? Haikus are downright awesome, if it wasn't so much work I might try to speak like that for half a day myself. I genuinely liked the main character, Andrew, and thought he was a great guy. He wasn't perfect, which is always good in relating to him, but I enjoyed reading about him. Most importantly I cared what happened to him and I wanted him to have a happy ending. Hannah, the love interest, was a little shrouded in mystery, you don't learn much about her but I did love her attitude and free spirit.
One gripe about this book that I did not let guide my star rating is that this book is in desperate need of a copy editor or just some serious editing in general. There are a lot of typos and small issues like that, which if you have read any of my reviews usually is an issue for me, but not this time. I did have a couple frustrated moments while reading it but the writing and book itself was so great I just grazed over it. When there were issues or typos I barely noticed and when I did notice, I did not care.
There are just so many bizarrely awesome things about this book, like the ninja! One time while reading I thought, man this could totally be a bizarro book. Costume parties in the summer, running into exes, getting caught staring, ninja/pirate fights, exotic pets and their feces, etc. All of this led to a lot of embarrassment for Andrew, he had embarrassing things happen and my stomach twisted in knots for him. Feeling what the character feels while reading, that's a sign of a good writer. If you're looking for some great laughs and even greater moments of honesty, pick this one up.
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UPDATE:
Still talk about this book a lot, loaning my copy out, etc. I find myself laughing to myself when I think about it. Great read. Wish it was more well known.
Still 5 stars.
I haven't read a story in a while where I got so totally wrapped up in the story that I laughed out loud, usually I can contain myself. Smith wrote some great memorable characters too, characters that I really cared about. If I had to compare, when describing this book to a friend I said it was like Hornby's "High Fidelity," which is one of my favorite books ever, but with a used book store instead of music store. "Textual Healing" is the strongest debut efforts of a writer I've read in a while. Smith writes very candidly with a brilliantly descriptive style that keeps the pages turning. Not to mention it's packed with references for literary and general geeks alike, but that's not what makes Textual Healing a winner. What does is among the hilariously unlikely situations the book's protagonist gets himself into, there is an undeniable human element that all of us can relate to.
Back to the characters, I know everyone has mentioned it when reviewing this book but come on, how can you not love a ninja who owns a flower shop and only speaks in haiku form? Haikus are downright awesome, if it wasn't so much work I might try to speak like that for half a day myself. I genuinely liked the main character, Andrew, and thought he was a great guy. He wasn't perfect, which is always good in relating to him, but I enjoyed reading about him. Most importantly I cared what happened to him and I wanted him to have a happy ending. Hannah, the love interest, was a little shrouded in mystery, you don't learn much about her but I did love her attitude and free spirit.
One gripe about this book that I did not let guide my star rating is that this book is in desperate need of a copy editor or just some serious editing in general. There are a lot of typos and small issues like that, which if you have read any of my reviews usually is an issue for me, but not this time. I did have a couple frustrated moments while reading it but the writing and book itself was so great I just grazed over it. When there were issues or typos I barely noticed and when I did notice, I did not care.
There are just so many bizarrely awesome things about this book, like the ninja! One time while reading I thought, man this could totally be a bizarro book. Costume parties in the summer, running into exes, getting caught staring, ninja/pirate fights, exotic pets and their feces, etc. All of this led to a lot of embarrassment for Andrew, he had embarrassing things happen and my stomach twisted in knots for him. Feeling what the character feels while reading, that's a sign of a good writer. If you're looking for some great laughs and even greater moments of honesty, pick this one up.
----------------------------------------------
UPDATE:
Still talk about this book a lot, loaning my copy out, etc. I find myself laughing to myself when I think about it. Great read. Wish it was more well known.
Still 5 stars.
Read
April 21, 2018I received a free copy from the author, Eric Smith. Review copies of books are great - except there's always that fear that you're going to get a book and not like it, and then what do you say?
I picked this book up last night, meaning to just read the first page or so to see how I liked it and read the entire book straight through. I really like this book! Andrew Connor, the main character, is a writer who no longer writes. His former bestselling book is on sale at Barnes and Noble for $1.37. His girlfriend left him. His used bookstore isn't really doing all that well (but does it have to? He seems to have enough money and that's what makes it fine). His well meaning neighbor tricks him into joining a writer's group called Textual Healing, which turns out to be a bunch of writers who aren't writing.
Of course he meets a girl, and of course in the course of a week, she changes his life. But is it for the good, or is she just going to leave him as well?
Eric Smith really knows how to write characters you care about. I really enjoyed the dynamics between Andrew and well, pretty much everyone in the book. I liked Shawn. I liked Brian and Valerie a lot - the entire bookstore thing reminded me a lot (in a good way) of my favorite Nick Hornby book High Fidelity. I liked the Orchid, Hannah, Stephanie. I think the only person I didn't like was Daniela, but that's because we're not supposed to so I was fine with that.
There's a lot of humor in this book, a lot of musical references (which always do it for me) and the story flows effortlessly, though there are one or two spots where a fact or two doesn't quite fit in (but that's just an editing thing). I really enjoyed it, and for sure would read another book by Mr. Smith anytime!
*****
3/27/12
I have come back, nine months later, and changed my review to five stars because I still think about this book all the time and how good it is.
I picked this book up last night, meaning to just read the first page or so to see how I liked it and read the entire book straight through. I really like this book! Andrew Connor, the main character, is a writer who no longer writes. His former bestselling book is on sale at Barnes and Noble for $1.37. His girlfriend left him. His used bookstore isn't really doing all that well (but does it have to? He seems to have enough money and that's what makes it fine). His well meaning neighbor tricks him into joining a writer's group called Textual Healing, which turns out to be a bunch of writers who aren't writing.
Of course he meets a girl, and of course in the course of a week, she changes his life. But is it for the good, or is she just going to leave him as well?
Eric Smith really knows how to write characters you care about. I really enjoyed the dynamics between Andrew and well, pretty much everyone in the book. I liked Shawn. I liked Brian and Valerie a lot - the entire bookstore thing reminded me a lot (in a good way) of my favorite Nick Hornby book High Fidelity. I liked the Orchid, Hannah, Stephanie. I think the only person I didn't like was Daniela, but that's because we're not supposed to so I was fine with that.
There's a lot of humor in this book, a lot of musical references (which always do it for me) and the story flows effortlessly, though there are one or two spots where a fact or two doesn't quite fit in (but that's just an editing thing). I really enjoyed it, and for sure would read another book by Mr. Smith anytime!
*****
3/27/12
I have come back, nine months later, and changed my review to five stars because I still think about this book all the time and how good it is.
March 5, 2011
"The kind that stays with you, a clever line in a movie, a well-written anecdote in a book, a quip in a poem, and finally, finally I had a punch-line, a point, a meaning to the rambling." - Thoughts on Textual Healing by Eric Smith
I tend to shy away from funny-romantic stories when it comes to books, mainly because the cookie-cutter formulas are getting rusty overtime: boy (or girl) with a crisis meets and falls in love with a girl (or boy) who becomes an inspiration for self-improvement, evil ex (or mother, or boss, or obsessed stalker) comes in and ruins everything, everybody's in the dumps for a chapter or two, realization that love transcends everything else, epic chase scene involving killer traffic and a very supportive crowd, anti-climatic "this won't work, we're not meant to be" dialogue, award-winning monologue on love, and a happily-ever-after - it's like the rinse-and-repeat instructions at the back of shampoo bottles.
Eric Smith's Textual Healing, however, has a sugar glider, a ninja vs. pirate duel, a guy who's a Dick, and a support group for writers who can't write. And that's just for starters.
Andrew Connor - who prefers to be called Ace, thank you very much - is a thirty-something writer living in New York, the author of the hugely successful Chasing Fireflies ("a simple story about a small town librarian who fell in love with a beautiful, rich woman from New York City"). It was so successful, it got adapted into a made-for-TV movie on HBO, starring Ed Norton and Penelope Cruz. With the money he made from royalties, he opens up a bookstore at Hoboken, right across the flower shop of a haiku-speaking ninja ("The sun shines brightly. I yearn for the autumn winds. The thrill of battle." - if you don't believe me, count the syllables yourself), and with an obsessive-compulsive employee who alphabetized everything in the store. Recently broken-hearted (his girlfriend left him for a suit named Richard), his best friend Shawn sets him up with backpacking, unpredictable Hannah, and his Fahrenheit 451-toting neighbor (and fellow writer) Stephanie lures him into joining Textual Healing, a writers' circle for authors with issues. Oh, and did I mention his bestselling book is on clearance at 90% off?
All of this, and more, over the fact that Ace hasn't written a thing since Chasing Fireflies - two years ago.
While Textual Healing isn't the most meticulously edited book, it is a breath of fresh air amongst the done-to-death cliché romantic comedies out there. For one, Smith's sense of humor is so timely (for a Hannah Montana reference, see page 230) but never approaches overkill; his paragraphs are packed with witticisms and subtle puns that build up and then drop bombs at the right moment. He's crazy funny, I tell you. Ace is a smart romantic with a great sense of humor - his inner thoughts are so hilarious, that even at his most desolate times I find myself giggling like a schoolgirl (see "Please, take me back, Pop Tart." on page 8).
I'm dying here - there's so much to tell about this book, but I don't want to spoil it all for you. So instead, here are some teasers - some of the crazy-funny things I loved about the book:
A cross between Rob Fleming of Nick Hornby's High Fidelity and Ted Mosby of How I Met Your Mother, you'll simultaneously laugh at and fall in love with Ace Connor and his bunch of misfit friends. An intelligent, laugh-out-loud treat - Textual Healing is the paperback counterpart of your feel-good romantic comedy of the year. Now go make your husband/boyfriend/man of your dreams read this.
PS. "People don't meet after stealing glances at each other from across a crowded ballroom dance floor. They don't fall in love over the Internet, ironically having their partner be their best friend. And no one gets off a bus at the end of a story with the one they love... they always leave." Ugh - marry me.
PPS. "I'll show you how to light up a cloud." :)
Originally posted here.
I tend to shy away from funny-romantic stories when it comes to books, mainly because the cookie-cutter formulas are getting rusty overtime: boy (or girl) with a crisis meets and falls in love with a girl (or boy) who becomes an inspiration for self-improvement, evil ex (or mother, or boss, or obsessed stalker) comes in and ruins everything, everybody's in the dumps for a chapter or two, realization that love transcends everything else, epic chase scene involving killer traffic and a very supportive crowd, anti-climatic "this won't work, we're not meant to be" dialogue, award-winning monologue on love, and a happily-ever-after - it's like the rinse-and-repeat instructions at the back of shampoo bottles.
Eric Smith's Textual Healing, however, has a sugar glider, a ninja vs. pirate duel, a guy who's a Dick, and a support group for writers who can't write. And that's just for starters.
Andrew Connor - who prefers to be called Ace, thank you very much - is a thirty-something writer living in New York, the author of the hugely successful Chasing Fireflies ("a simple story about a small town librarian who fell in love with a beautiful, rich woman from New York City"). It was so successful, it got adapted into a made-for-TV movie on HBO, starring Ed Norton and Penelope Cruz. With the money he made from royalties, he opens up a bookstore at Hoboken, right across the flower shop of a haiku-speaking ninja ("The sun shines brightly. I yearn for the autumn winds. The thrill of battle." - if you don't believe me, count the syllables yourself), and with an obsessive-compulsive employee who alphabetized everything in the store. Recently broken-hearted (his girlfriend left him for a suit named Richard), his best friend Shawn sets him up with backpacking, unpredictable Hannah, and his Fahrenheit 451-toting neighbor (and fellow writer) Stephanie lures him into joining Textual Healing, a writers' circle for authors with issues. Oh, and did I mention his bestselling book is on clearance at 90% off?
All of this, and more, over the fact that Ace hasn't written a thing since Chasing Fireflies - two years ago.
While Textual Healing isn't the most meticulously edited book, it is a breath of fresh air amongst the done-to-death cliché romantic comedies out there. For one, Smith's sense of humor is so timely (for a Hannah Montana reference, see page 230) but never approaches overkill; his paragraphs are packed with witticisms and subtle puns that build up and then drop bombs at the right moment. He's crazy funny, I tell you. Ace is a smart romantic with a great sense of humor - his inner thoughts are so hilarious, that even at his most desolate times I find myself giggling like a schoolgirl (see "Please, take me back, Pop Tart." on page 8).
I'm dying here - there's so much to tell about this book, but I don't want to spoil it all for you. So instead, here are some teasers - some of the crazy-funny things I loved about the book:
someone refers to William Shakespeare as "Bill"
authorophiliac: one who is heavily attracted to, or is addicted to sexually interacting with, famous authors
what, exactly, is a sugar glider?
Andrea and her jacket photo
the comical love story of HowsYourFace and SexyLilJew4U
Brian's dress-up birthday celebration - can you guess what a formal apology looks like?
A cross between Rob Fleming of Nick Hornby's High Fidelity and Ted Mosby of How I Met Your Mother, you'll simultaneously laugh at and fall in love with Ace Connor and his bunch of misfit friends. An intelligent, laugh-out-loud treat - Textual Healing is the paperback counterpart of your feel-good romantic comedy of the year. Now go make your husband/boyfriend/man of your dreams read this.
PS. "People don't meet after stealing glances at each other from across a crowded ballroom dance floor. They don't fall in love over the Internet, ironically having their partner be their best friend. And no one gets off a bus at the end of a story with the one they love... they always leave." Ugh - marry me.
PPS. "I'll show you how to light up a cloud." :)
Originally posted here.
October 10, 2016
As I had said in a previous status update, this is a really good book in search of a copy editor. I very much liked the book - it was quirky, fun, kept me engaged, not predictable at all, and Eric Smith had a great voice in his writing. So it was a bit disheartening to be periodically thrown out of the story by a missing comma, or a "through" instead of "threw." However, minor quibble. I acknowledge that I am overly anal when it comes to things of a grammar nature, so I deal with it and move on.
Textual Healing has a plot straight out of a screwball romantic comedy, only I don't think even Hollywood could have come up with some of the supporting characters here. It is the story of a once-famous author who is suffering from one-hit-wonderdom. And then his life falls apart. His long-time girlfriend leaves him, his best-selling book is collecting dust in the clearance section (way way WAY discounted), his used bookstore is sinking about as fast as the Titanic, and he gets tricked into joining a support group for lapsed writers. But then, enters a girl (there's always a girl, isn't there?), Hannah, who doesn't run away screaming from the weirdness in his life - such as the flower-shop-owning, haiku-spouting ninja; or the apartment-destroying sugar glider. (Intrigued yet?) I won't say more because it will spoil the plot.
Was this book perfect? No. I wasn't hipster enough to fully enjoy all the references to hipstery things, so I probably missed out on something there. The writing was also a little rough around the edges and could have used another couple rounds of editing and some tough love "Dude, lay off the pop culture references. You'll only date the story later."
I am glad I read it, though. And I've now killed any desire I might have ever had to own sugar gliders. Not that I had much - two rabbits and a cat are destructive enough as it is.
Review copy courtesy of the author
Textual Healing has a plot straight out of a screwball romantic comedy, only I don't think even Hollywood could have come up with some of the supporting characters here. It is the story of a once-famous author who is suffering from one-hit-wonderdom. And then his life falls apart. His long-time girlfriend leaves him, his best-selling book is collecting dust in the clearance section (way way WAY discounted), his used bookstore is sinking about as fast as the Titanic, and he gets tricked into joining a support group for lapsed writers. But then, enters a girl (there's always a girl, isn't there?), Hannah, who doesn't run away screaming from the weirdness in his life - such as the flower-shop-owning, haiku-spouting ninja; or the apartment-destroying sugar glider. (Intrigued yet?) I won't say more because it will spoil the plot.
Was this book perfect? No. I wasn't hipster enough to fully enjoy all the references to hipstery things, so I probably missed out on something there. The writing was also a little rough around the edges and could have used another couple rounds of editing and some tough love "Dude, lay off the pop culture references. You'll only date the story later."
I am glad I read it, though. And I've now killed any desire I might have ever had to own sugar gliders. Not that I had much - two rabbits and a cat are destructive enough as it is.
Review copy courtesy of the author
March 17, 2011
Okay, so I have a feeling that this review, no matter how long I ponder over what to say, is going to come off a bit fan-girlish. Why? Well, to put it simply, it was really good and that tends to put me in a situation where I don't know exactly what to say because you want to say everything...know what I mean?
Let’s address the title first because to be honest that combined with the cover image have generated many a false impression about the book. The title is just that…a pun…and despite whatever lewd or gutter dwelling images it may draw forth from some minds, it plays a relatively small role in the novel.
After reading the first page, I KNEW I had little to fear…or at the very least my bookish nature was going to be in good hands. There’s not a character among the cast that I didn’t like, except maybe Daniela...the ex-girlfriend, nuff said. Ace is the star of the show but even though he plays narrator and his life is the main backdrop for the story, his friends and neighbors lives share the spotlight.
You have the adventures of “the Pantera” , the secret online “love” connection made with Scrabble Girl, the sugar glider that wasn’t, and the memorable “Halloween-in-the-summer-birthday bash”. Readers of a certain age will love the Zac Morris references as well as other trips down entertainment past lane. Writers will flinch at where Ace discovers his book in a local store as well as feel for the folks in the writer’s support group he ends up being roped into. The only drawback I found was the chapter length, but then I’m a habitual “finish this chapter THEN take a break” type reader....so shorter generally works better.
All in all, it's a great read for teen to adult readers who love a good story filled with everyday people that you’d be more than happy to call ‘friend’. Don’t be surprised if you see yourself (or friends) in the characters…after all, most of us are bookish at heart. Happy reading!
Let’s address the title first because to be honest that combined with the cover image have generated many a false impression about the book. The title is just that…a pun…and despite whatever lewd or gutter dwelling images it may draw forth from some minds, it plays a relatively small role in the novel.
After reading the first page, I KNEW I had little to fear…or at the very least my bookish nature was going to be in good hands. There’s not a character among the cast that I didn’t like, except maybe Daniela...the ex-girlfriend, nuff said. Ace is the star of the show but even though he plays narrator and his life is the main backdrop for the story, his friends and neighbors lives share the spotlight.
You have the adventures of “the Pantera” , the secret online “love” connection made with Scrabble Girl, the sugar glider that wasn’t, and the memorable “Halloween-in-the-summer-birthday bash”. Readers of a certain age will love the Zac Morris references as well as other trips down entertainment past lane. Writers will flinch at where Ace discovers his book in a local store as well as feel for the folks in the writer’s support group he ends up being roped into. The only drawback I found was the chapter length, but then I’m a habitual “finish this chapter THEN take a break” type reader....so shorter generally works better.
All in all, it's a great read for teen to adult readers who love a good story filled with everyday people that you’d be more than happy to call ‘friend’. Don’t be surprised if you see yourself (or friends) in the characters…after all, most of us are bookish at heart. Happy reading!
December 8, 2010
Definitely not my usual read, this quirky little romantic comedy is a little rough around the edges in a technical sense, but considering its status as an independently published debut novel, the offenses are forgivable. Mr. Smith writes truly believable characters that we all know well and places them in a familiar world full of young love and loss, summing it all up in a comical whirlwind week with a grandiose emotional scope that surpasses even the distance between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh in sheer breadth and depth. Hurry up on the sophomore effort, mkay?
December 7, 2010
Textual Healing is delightful. I especially liked the character based on me. He is the greatest. More characters should be based on me. I also like the stuff that happened to me that I told Eric about that he put in the book. Those things are great. All the stuff in it that Eric didn't take directly from me is also pretty good.
March 29, 2011
Great read from a first time author. The time will come and this guy will be a major writer.
June 15, 2012
REVIEW ALSO ON: http://bibliomantics.com/2011/06/17/h......
Sometimes just reading a book isn’t enough. Sometimes I need a book that is about books. So it was with excitement that I sat down to read about author turned bookstore owner Andrew/Ace. From the very first page I had what I can only call a bibliogasm (a literary orgasm). This is because Eric Smith’s Textual Healing opens with a discussion about the smell of books. There is nothing like the smell of a well loved book, an antique book, a Harry Potter book (ask Stephanie- they have their own special smell). It was with this wonderful scent in my mind that I dove into Textual Healing. I also had a dog in my lap, but that’s not really relevant.
Narrator Ace was by far my favourite character. He’s funny, self-deprecating, and his inner thoughts are a joy to read. At one point he stumbles across his ex Daniela and her new boyfriend, Mr. Corporate America Richard (AKA Dick) and his inner monologue made me laugh out loud- and not in the way you type lol in a text message. In this hilarious moment, Ace rants inside his head, “Dick (I bet he hates being called that by his Wall Street buddies, him in his suit, his expensive Armani tie and Kenneth Cole shoes, listening to his iPod, nay, his Microsoft Zune, filled with horrible music, a non stop mix of Wham! and INXS)”. These hypothetical situations are the funniest parts of Ace, and he even goes so far as to imagine Daniela and Dick having sex in front of everyone in Starbucks, alternately coming to a mutual decision that she and Ace should get back together, and devolving into Dick finally confessing, “I am attracted to small children”.
The strangest character and therefore the most fun is Brave Orchid, who owns the flower shop across from Ace’s bookstore. She dresses like a ninja, has a penchant for kicking invisible enemies, and speaks in the 5-7-5 format of haikus. She even holds an extended grudge against a customer who happened to come across her dressed like a pirate on Halloween (because the internet has taught us that pirates and ninjas are mortal enemies- perhaps more so than Jedi and Klingons). No, her character doesn’t make much sense, but it’s this hyper ridiculous reality that makes Textual Healing so much fun.
The scenes which I found to be the most enjoyable, besides the ones set in Ace’s bookstore are at the writers’ support group Textual Healing, which is run like an AA meeting but with less alcohol dependency. Or so I assume. Led by romance writer and extremely hot lesbian Stephanie, Textual Healings purpose is “helping writers, write again”. The group is home to Jeffrey Foster (sounds like Geoffrey Chaucer) whose second novel was a flop and was broken by the criticism, Andrea who is cursed with a horrible jacket photo, and John Landers, an ex indie rock star who can’t seem to get his kids books off the ground. We later learn that for some reason no one wants to publish his illustrated moral tales entitled Snowy Gets an Abortion and Fluffy’s First Hate Crime, which feature adorable bunnies holding coat hangers and being racist.
What’s really fun about this novel is how contemporary and peppered with popular culture references it is. I smiled through mentions of Joel Schumacher and his decision to put nipples on the Batman suit, the name dropping of Henry Rollins and Interpol, Route 22, “Thundercats”, Kill Bill, Converse, and Yager. There was even a reference to WinAmp. WINAMP! (I’m pretty sure my WinAmp skin was Sango from “InuYasha” because I’m a nerd like that.)
There are also as expected literary references, from making fun of books with movie covers as being blasphemous (I too won’t buy movie cover books and once spent a summer trying to find Anne Rice’s Queen of the Damned without Aaliyah on the front) to jokes about book store patrons. While in one of many B&Ns throughout the novel, Ace thinks, “I’ve come to realize that no matter the cafe, there’s always a kid in the corner reading Vonnegut”.
I felt a connection to the characters when they talked about David Sedaris, Chuck Palahniuk, Nick Hornby, H.G. Wells, and Ray Bradbury. These references worked two-fold: they put joy in my heart each time I recognized a beloved author, and it fully fleshed out the characters that Smith created. To me, they are real.
Sometimes just reading a book isn’t enough. Sometimes I need a book that is about books. So it was with excitement that I sat down to read about author turned bookstore owner Andrew/Ace. From the very first page I had what I can only call a bibliogasm (a literary orgasm). This is because Eric Smith’s Textual Healing opens with a discussion about the smell of books. There is nothing like the smell of a well loved book, an antique book, a Harry Potter book (ask Stephanie- they have their own special smell). It was with this wonderful scent in my mind that I dove into Textual Healing. I also had a dog in my lap, but that’s not really relevant.
Narrator Ace was by far my favourite character. He’s funny, self-deprecating, and his inner thoughts are a joy to read. At one point he stumbles across his ex Daniela and her new boyfriend, Mr. Corporate America Richard (AKA Dick) and his inner monologue made me laugh out loud- and not in the way you type lol in a text message. In this hilarious moment, Ace rants inside his head, “Dick (I bet he hates being called that by his Wall Street buddies, him in his suit, his expensive Armani tie and Kenneth Cole shoes, listening to his iPod, nay, his Microsoft Zune, filled with horrible music, a non stop mix of Wham! and INXS)”. These hypothetical situations are the funniest parts of Ace, and he even goes so far as to imagine Daniela and Dick having sex in front of everyone in Starbucks, alternately coming to a mutual decision that she and Ace should get back together, and devolving into Dick finally confessing, “I am attracted to small children”.
The strangest character and therefore the most fun is Brave Orchid, who owns the flower shop across from Ace’s bookstore. She dresses like a ninja, has a penchant for kicking invisible enemies, and speaks in the 5-7-5 format of haikus. She even holds an extended grudge against a customer who happened to come across her dressed like a pirate on Halloween (because the internet has taught us that pirates and ninjas are mortal enemies- perhaps more so than Jedi and Klingons). No, her character doesn’t make much sense, but it’s this hyper ridiculous reality that makes Textual Healing so much fun.
The scenes which I found to be the most enjoyable, besides the ones set in Ace’s bookstore are at the writers’ support group Textual Healing, which is run like an AA meeting but with less alcohol dependency. Or so I assume. Led by romance writer and extremely hot lesbian Stephanie, Textual Healings purpose is “helping writers, write again”. The group is home to Jeffrey Foster (sounds like Geoffrey Chaucer) whose second novel was a flop and was broken by the criticism, Andrea who is cursed with a horrible jacket photo, and John Landers, an ex indie rock star who can’t seem to get his kids books off the ground. We later learn that for some reason no one wants to publish his illustrated moral tales entitled Snowy Gets an Abortion and Fluffy’s First Hate Crime, which feature adorable bunnies holding coat hangers and being racist.
What’s really fun about this novel is how contemporary and peppered with popular culture references it is. I smiled through mentions of Joel Schumacher and his decision to put nipples on the Batman suit, the name dropping of Henry Rollins and Interpol, Route 22, “Thundercats”, Kill Bill, Converse, and Yager. There was even a reference to WinAmp. WINAMP! (I’m pretty sure my WinAmp skin was Sango from “InuYasha” because I’m a nerd like that.)
There are also as expected literary references, from making fun of books with movie covers as being blasphemous (I too won’t buy movie cover books and once spent a summer trying to find Anne Rice’s Queen of the Damned without Aaliyah on the front) to jokes about book store patrons. While in one of many B&Ns throughout the novel, Ace thinks, “I’ve come to realize that no matter the cafe, there’s always a kid in the corner reading Vonnegut”.
I felt a connection to the characters when they talked about David Sedaris, Chuck Palahniuk, Nick Hornby, H.G. Wells, and Ray Bradbury. These references worked two-fold: they put joy in my heart each time I recognized a beloved author, and it fully fleshed out the characters that Smith created. To me, they are real.
March 1, 2011
Eric Smith’s Textual Healing is a fun, sweet and unexpectedly poignant book about books -- and the power, excitement and joy they bring us. Andrew “Ace” Connor is our narrator, a witty and self-deprecating guy you can’t help but like. Over the course of one week, Ace’s life changes completely as Daniela leaves and Hannah enters — but it didn’t feel like the cheesy rebound mess that might suggest.
In fact, on the surface, Smith’s novel sounds like a familiar-yet-quirky rendition of many popular romances: “You’ve Got Mail,” for one. But he turns the cliches around by acknowledging them, then incorporating the romantic jokes right into his novel. The characters know they’re being cheesy. And you know what? That’s why it’s okay.
Given the fact that I read books mostly by women, this was a welcome treat: a novel told from a male perspective and written by a man. But I’m not going to lie: though I really enjoyed Textual Healing, it was all I could do not to circle away with a red pen. Smith is a funny, interesting writer, but the grammatical and punctual errors throughout the book were tough for me to process. A writer and editor by trade, I found myself itching to open this baby up as a Word document and right all the wrongs.
But here’s the weird thing: I still liked this novel. Quite a bit, actually -- because it was different. Everything I thought was going to happen . . . didn’t. And the cast of characters kept me jumping around, wondering how things were going to go down. Ace seems like the hipster writer friend you wish you had -- someone out there “living the dream,” though the dream turns out to be different than he expected. Hannah was a little too ethereal for my tastes at times, but that’s okay — she’s not my dream girl, obviously. But she is Andrew’s.
The whole book is very imaginative and artfully drawn, brought to life through Smith’s descriptions. I read in another review that the reader felt it would make a great film -- and I agree. The story lends itself to a hilarious romantic comedy, for sure, and I can see it translating well to the big screen. It’s just fun!
Anyone looking for a quick, offbeat and interesting read should look no further than Textual Healing. It was the bold cover that first attracted me to this book celebrating love and the written word . . . and it was the unconventional population of Smith’s novel that kept me reading.
In fact, on the surface, Smith’s novel sounds like a familiar-yet-quirky rendition of many popular romances: “You’ve Got Mail,” for one. But he turns the cliches around by acknowledging them, then incorporating the romantic jokes right into his novel. The characters know they’re being cheesy. And you know what? That’s why it’s okay.
Given the fact that I read books mostly by women, this was a welcome treat: a novel told from a male perspective and written by a man. But I’m not going to lie: though I really enjoyed Textual Healing, it was all I could do not to circle away with a red pen. Smith is a funny, interesting writer, but the grammatical and punctual errors throughout the book were tough for me to process. A writer and editor by trade, I found myself itching to open this baby up as a Word document and right all the wrongs.
But here’s the weird thing: I still liked this novel. Quite a bit, actually -- because it was different. Everything I thought was going to happen . . . didn’t. And the cast of characters kept me jumping around, wondering how things were going to go down. Ace seems like the hipster writer friend you wish you had -- someone out there “living the dream,” though the dream turns out to be different than he expected. Hannah was a little too ethereal for my tastes at times, but that’s okay — she’s not my dream girl, obviously. But she is Andrew’s.
The whole book is very imaginative and artfully drawn, brought to life through Smith’s descriptions. I read in another review that the reader felt it would make a great film -- and I agree. The story lends itself to a hilarious romantic comedy, for sure, and I can see it translating well to the big screen. It’s just fun!
Anyone looking for a quick, offbeat and interesting read should look no further than Textual Healing. It was the bold cover that first attracted me to this book celebrating love and the written word . . . and it was the unconventional population of Smith’s novel that kept me reading.
January 4, 2011
Andrew Connor's life has been better. Once a celebrated writer, he now finds his one book located on the discount shelves at his local Barns and Noble. He spends his time running a struggling used bookstore located across the street from a flower-shop-owning ninja. When his girlfriend breaks up with him, it seems like the last straw. Then he meets Hannah, a friendly woman from the Midwest who changes his life in just a week.
Apparently, I was very lucky the last half of December, because I won not one, but TWO books in online giveaways. One of these books was Textual Healing by Eric Smith (thanks to Goodread's first reads), a quirky romantic comedy. I love how Smith plays with rom-com stereotypes, putting his own spin on the genre. I found Andrew, despite his hapless nature, to be a likeable lead. I enjoyed the colorful cast of side characters, especially the ninja from across the street, and the two college students that work at Andrew's bookstore. I thought the romantic element worked well, despite the fact that it was a little cliché (free spirited young woman helps revitalize male protagonist's ho-hum life? I think I've read this one before). Where the novel succeeds the most is when it comes to comedy. I found myself cracking up several times while reading it.
Admittedly, there are some areas were Textual Healing does come up a little short. The first one is kind of surprising. There are quite a few grammatical and punctuation related errors in this little book. Smith really seems to struggle with tense (I can relate). While reading, I noticed the book would switch back and forth between past and present tense constantly, often in the same paragraph. At first, I found this really distracting. It's not something you'd expect to find in a printed work. As I got more into the story, I began to notice these errors less frequently. I also found that at times, the writing felt a little awkward or cheesy, taking me out of my enjoyment of the book. This isn't something unheard of for debut novels, so I'm going to give Smith a break here. Also, as mentioned before, the novel sometimes felt a little cliché.
Textual Healing was a very fun read. Smith's first novel shows that he has a good hand for crafting likable characters, great comedy, and a pleasant romance. I suspect that as he grows as a writer, many of the issues I had with this book will be resolved. I'm happy that I read Textual Healing, despite the fact that it's a little out of my comfort zone.
Apparently, I was very lucky the last half of December, because I won not one, but TWO books in online giveaways. One of these books was Textual Healing by Eric Smith (thanks to Goodread's first reads), a quirky romantic comedy. I love how Smith plays with rom-com stereotypes, putting his own spin on the genre. I found Andrew, despite his hapless nature, to be a likeable lead. I enjoyed the colorful cast of side characters, especially the ninja from across the street, and the two college students that work at Andrew's bookstore. I thought the romantic element worked well, despite the fact that it was a little cliché (free spirited young woman helps revitalize male protagonist's ho-hum life? I think I've read this one before). Where the novel succeeds the most is when it comes to comedy. I found myself cracking up several times while reading it.
Admittedly, there are some areas were Textual Healing does come up a little short. The first one is kind of surprising. There are quite a few grammatical and punctuation related errors in this little book. Smith really seems to struggle with tense (I can relate). While reading, I noticed the book would switch back and forth between past and present tense constantly, often in the same paragraph. At first, I found this really distracting. It's not something you'd expect to find in a printed work. As I got more into the story, I began to notice these errors less frequently. I also found that at times, the writing felt a little awkward or cheesy, taking me out of my enjoyment of the book. This isn't something unheard of for debut novels, so I'm going to give Smith a break here. Also, as mentioned before, the novel sometimes felt a little cliché.
Textual Healing was a very fun read. Smith's first novel shows that he has a good hand for crafting likable characters, great comedy, and a pleasant romance. I suspect that as he grows as a writer, many of the issues I had with this book will be resolved. I'm happy that I read Textual Healing, despite the fact that it's a little out of my comfort zone.
March 16, 2011
Textual Healing is referencing the book group Ace is a member of (guilted into joining)- not the song "Sexual Healing". As far as fixing anything with this book, I'd recommend a new cover image as the photo of the girl made me believe this book was about texting during some high school drama. This book was WAY better than I thought it was going to be based on the cover art. Try it on for size.
Andrew "Ace" Connor is appealing in so many different ways. He is not too attractive, not too smart, not too creative, not too ambitious. Why does this make him appealing? Because of the way he handles the situations he somehow gets himself into.
Ace once-upon-a-time wrote and published a bestseller. He has a tidy bank account due to this, but still insists on living low-key with his bookstore and college kid employees. Ace is 30-something and trying to find the love of his life. Well, he thought he had found her at one point in time, but the women in his life seem to keep trampling him. This pressure these girlfriends put on him to write the next bestseller (and please include a version of me as the main heroine) makes it so Ace can't concentrate on the writing and nothing comes out. For years.
Until he is set up on a blind date with the most unlikely of women. She is funny and exciting and doesn't seem to give a hoot that Ace was famous at one time (even if it is a little bit to his dismay).
Ace is an idiot. Luckily for Smith, so am I. I loved Ace's character. I've been in many situations outlined in the story- from the sugar glider incident which had me laughing out loud, to the costume beerfest, the absurd sudden attraction to someone you've known for forever, and the pride in having a stranger recognize you on the street due to your author photo and newspaper interviews.
Quirky is a great word to describe this book. The characters all seem to be a little bit strange in their own habits and tendencies. This book is also endearing and funny to the point of pain. I laughed out loud at many moments described and then read them outloud to my husband. He didn't get it (he didn't know the context), but I didn't care.
Recommend to all how enjoy stupid humor, ridiculous co-stars (like Haiku Ninja flower shop owner), idiotic friends and utterly lovable characteristics. If you like Catch by Will Leitch, you will love Textual Healing.
Andrew "Ace" Connor is appealing in so many different ways. He is not too attractive, not too smart, not too creative, not too ambitious. Why does this make him appealing? Because of the way he handles the situations he somehow gets himself into.
Ace once-upon-a-time wrote and published a bestseller. He has a tidy bank account due to this, but still insists on living low-key with his bookstore and college kid employees. Ace is 30-something and trying to find the love of his life. Well, he thought he had found her at one point in time, but the women in his life seem to keep trampling him. This pressure these girlfriends put on him to write the next bestseller (and please include a version of me as the main heroine) makes it so Ace can't concentrate on the writing and nothing comes out. For years.
Until he is set up on a blind date with the most unlikely of women. She is funny and exciting and doesn't seem to give a hoot that Ace was famous at one time (even if it is a little bit to his dismay).
Ace is an idiot. Luckily for Smith, so am I. I loved Ace's character. I've been in many situations outlined in the story- from the sugar glider incident which had me laughing out loud, to the costume beerfest, the absurd sudden attraction to someone you've known for forever, and the pride in having a stranger recognize you on the street due to your author photo and newspaper interviews.
Quirky is a great word to describe this book. The characters all seem to be a little bit strange in their own habits and tendencies. This book is also endearing and funny to the point of pain. I laughed out loud at many moments described and then read them outloud to my husband. He didn't get it (he didn't know the context), but I didn't care.
Recommend to all how enjoy stupid humor, ridiculous co-stars (like Haiku Ninja flower shop owner), idiotic friends and utterly lovable characteristics. If you like Catch by Will Leitch, you will love Textual Healing.
March 7, 2011
One sentence sums up this book – “Textual Healing” by Eric Smith is a delightful novel. Ace, or Andrew Connor, the main protagonist, is everyone’s favorite guy. He makes you laugh, endears you to him and you want to cheer him on, as the book progresses, to get past his writers block. Ace’s character can easily be described as dorky, or quirky – but for me, his character was endearing and insanely charming, especially his sense of humor. Even at his lowest, Ace’s self-deprecating mannerisms are sure to bring a smile to your face. Also, there’s Hannah, a wonderfully imaginative character with lots of spunk - Eric Smith did a great job with Hannah’s characterization and I wish that there were more female heroines like her.
And then there’s the sugar-glider (a creature I had absolutely NO knowledge of before reading this novel, and now I keep fantasizing about owning one as a pet!) and the flower-shop Ninja who speaks in Haiku form. In what world would those two not make life inconceivably funny? I mean, tell me, and how can one not love this novel, in all its cute quirkiness? It is especially refreshing to see a romantic novel from the perspective of a male character – the whole book undermines the concept that men are all carnal beasts, and this just makes you adore the book, and its male protagonist Ace, that much more.
In earnest, this was an intensely fun novel to read, full of quirky characters, funny situations and lots of witticisms. I would have finished it in one sitting, had it not been for the fact that I was already halfway through another novel, and I have an annoying penchant for chronology. I would highly recommend it to everyone – as a matter of fact, I already passed it on to my cousin, who called me a little while ago, breathily exclaiming “Oh God, I love Andrew Connor.”
If you can look past a few grammatical errors and typos (and God knows I could care less about them, especially when such an interesting story is unfolding), this book is MOST definitely worth a read. For author Eric Smith’s first attempt, this book is a HIT! It will make you smile, it will make you cringe, and it will warm your heart – the fact is, this book entertains you every step of the way. READ IT!
And then there’s the sugar-glider (a creature I had absolutely NO knowledge of before reading this novel, and now I keep fantasizing about owning one as a pet!) and the flower-shop Ninja who speaks in Haiku form. In what world would those two not make life inconceivably funny? I mean, tell me, and how can one not love this novel, in all its cute quirkiness? It is especially refreshing to see a romantic novel from the perspective of a male character – the whole book undermines the concept that men are all carnal beasts, and this just makes you adore the book, and its male protagonist Ace, that much more.
In earnest, this was an intensely fun novel to read, full of quirky characters, funny situations and lots of witticisms. I would have finished it in one sitting, had it not been for the fact that I was already halfway through another novel, and I have an annoying penchant for chronology. I would highly recommend it to everyone – as a matter of fact, I already passed it on to my cousin, who called me a little while ago, breathily exclaiming “Oh God, I love Andrew Connor.”
If you can look past a few grammatical errors and typos (and God knows I could care less about them, especially when such an interesting story is unfolding), this book is MOST definitely worth a read. For author Eric Smith’s first attempt, this book is a HIT! It will make you smile, it will make you cringe, and it will warm your heart – the fact is, this book entertains you every step of the way. READ IT!
May 21, 2011
Textual Healing was hilarious! I loved the little side comments that the main character Andrew Connor, or Ace, made, they honestly made me burst out laughing so many times...which was kind of awkward when I was in the waiting room of the dentist's office, but I was okay with that. haha
I think Textual Healing is the perfect book for anyone who is in need of a good laugh, or for someone who has been annoyed by the cliches of many books and romantic comedy movies...as the characters state many times in the book...it is not a romantic comedy, but I must admit it does have some romance and it definitely has comedy.
The characters in Textual Healing were incredibly unique and they stood out to me. Ace was an awesome main character, and a pretty great guy...at one point he evens buys a sugar glider (at least it might have been a sugar glider) to impress a girl, that girl being Hannah. Hannah was one of those characters that makes you want to go outside and start skipping, she had me smiling the whole time with her lines and her quirky behaviour, I thought she was fabulous! Other notable characters were Shawn - Ace's best friend, and Brian and Valerie - both of them work in Ace's used bookstore....and of course Brave Orchid - the owner of the flower shop across the street who dresses like a ninja and speaks in haiku...which was awesome!
Overall, I thought that Textual Healing was a fantastic story, it was hilarious and had some amazing characters. I definitely recommend it to people who want to laugh out loud, and I mean that literally. :)
And I'm curious...does anyone out there own a sugar glider??? :D
I think Textual Healing is the perfect book for anyone who is in need of a good laugh, or for someone who has been annoyed by the cliches of many books and romantic comedy movies...as the characters state many times in the book...it is not a romantic comedy, but I must admit it does have some romance and it definitely has comedy.
The characters in Textual Healing were incredibly unique and they stood out to me. Ace was an awesome main character, and a pretty great guy...at one point he evens buys a sugar glider (at least it might have been a sugar glider) to impress a girl, that girl being Hannah. Hannah was one of those characters that makes you want to go outside and start skipping, she had me smiling the whole time with her lines and her quirky behaviour, I thought she was fabulous! Other notable characters were Shawn - Ace's best friend, and Brian and Valerie - both of them work in Ace's used bookstore....and of course Brave Orchid - the owner of the flower shop across the street who dresses like a ninja and speaks in haiku...which was awesome!
Overall, I thought that Textual Healing was a fantastic story, it was hilarious and had some amazing characters. I definitely recommend it to people who want to laugh out loud, and I mean that literally. :)
And I'm curious...does anyone out there own a sugar glider??? :D
February 17, 2011
I was lucky enough to receive this book from a GoodReads giveaway. I started and finished this book today in one sitting. What I loved about this book was the language of the characters. I feel like a lot of book's characters are more philisophical, well-read, intelligent or use bigger words when they speak than that of real people. Sure, those books are good too! But to read something that spoken in a way that I speak is refreshing. My two favorite lines from the book included "I renamed him Douche McBag" and "Get lost, not even Jesus likes Creed." I couldn't stop laughing! I LOVED the characters (well, except Daniela) and I loved how visually striking they were portrayed. Hannah especially. I love that the book didn't immediately go to a happy ending and that Ace perserved to accomplish a goal before the book just ended with something like flowers and sunshine. I don't know how I didn't see the Valerie and Brian thing coming, but it was something that had me as giddy as Brian was throughout the book.
My only complaint about the book was that several things were missed by what I assume would be the editor. I saw a few times the words "me" or "my" were swapped for one another or that words that should have been plural weren't and vice versa. It wasn't anything that I detested; just something that caught my eye since I happen to be a grammar nazi. Overall though, I was a big fan. I'll be passing this book on to my friends!
My only complaint about the book was that several things were missed by what I assume would be the editor. I saw a few times the words "me" or "my" were swapped for one another or that words that should have been plural weren't and vice versa. It wasn't anything that I detested; just something that caught my eye since I happen to be a grammar nazi. Overall though, I was a big fan. I'll be passing this book on to my friends!
January 4, 2011
Won this in a First Reads giveaway.
I really like quirky books, and this definitely fits the bill. The best part was the haiku speaking (and texting) ninja, Brave Orchid, who ran a florist shop across the street from Andrew's book shop. And the costume party was a blast too :)
You really feel for the character because he tries and screws up, and it's easy to feel his pain. At the same time, you want to slap him silly for the things he does.
Definitely a good, fun read. Highly recommended!
I really like quirky books, and this definitely fits the bill. The best part was the haiku speaking (and texting) ninja, Brave Orchid, who ran a florist shop across the street from Andrew's book shop. And the costume party was a blast too :)
You really feel for the character because he tries and screws up, and it's easy to feel his pain. At the same time, you want to slap him silly for the things he does.
Definitely a good, fun read. Highly recommended!
February 8, 2014
Meh.
What made the biggest impression on me was the staggering amount of grammatical and spelling errors - among them "Hemmingway"! Really? There were some consistency issues as well. When grammar and spelling distracts SO MUCH from the story, it's a problem.
As to his writing style, it's OK, but he tries too hard to be funny/quirky/current. The character development was good-ish and the story itself was fine.
It had potential but I was severely underwhelmed.
What made the biggest impression on me was the staggering amount of grammatical and spelling errors - among them "Hemmingway"! Really? There were some consistency issues as well. When grammar and spelling distracts SO MUCH from the story, it's a problem.
As to his writing style, it's OK, but he tries too hard to be funny/quirky/current. The character development was good-ish and the story itself was fine.
It had potential but I was severely underwhelmed.
January 29, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. Laugh out loud funny at times. What I liked most about the book was the interesting cast of characters. I wouldn't mind having dinner/hanging out with any of these characters, but I really liked Ace, the protagonist. I connected with him and his journey to the next step in his life. Really happy I won this book on a giveaway otherwise I would have missed out.
September 14, 2011
Pssst I know the guy who wrote this!
May 13, 2011
Thanks to this book I learned about sugar gliders.
And I laughed out loud on several occasions.
Good job, Eric Smith!
And I laughed out loud on several occasions.
Good job, Eric Smith!
interesting-possibilities
February 4, 2011Gotta love those quirky books..haiku-speaking flower-shop-owning ninja? Well reviewed, goodreads author, and funny!
February 28, 2014
This is a terrible book, full of mistakes of continuity and grammar. The characters are not interesting nor well-developed. Juvenile plot.
February 8, 2011
Rating 3.5/5 Stars
I have never had a pet sugar glider, nor have I ever known any one with such an exotic pet. I wouldn’t even know where to buy one! Can you even get a sugar glider at a regular pet store? When the main character, Ace aka Andrew makes the impulsive decision to buy a sugar glider in order to impress a girl that he is smitten with, I learned that one should never leave such an unusual animal unattended. Ace’s adventure with his psychotic pet that he dubbed Ditto is just one of many scenes where the readers witness the lengths to which Ace will go to in order to impress a girl. However, it takes the right girl to show him that the best that anyone can hope for is that someone will love you for who you truly are and not the persona that you project onto others. This is a major theme in the book and is reinforced often with many of the secondary characters. Brian, the OCD vegetarian that works in Ace’s bookstore has an alter ego called Pantera that is half man, half panther with exotic moves and inexhaustible stamina. Brian, however, is just a quirky kid who lacks the confidence and sexual prowess to just be himself around women, hence the need for Pantera. We even learn that the flower-shop-owning ninja dons a disguise and speaks in haiku because she has difficulty expressing herself, especially when it comes to the pirate that she secretly yearns for.
You’re probably wondering what this story is even about. Well, Ace is a writer who had one extremely successful book that was turned into a movie. With the money that he made he bought a bookstore and spent all of his time keeping it afloat while trying to maintain his superficial relationship with his girlfriend. He never once noticed the rut that he had fallen into or that he had accomplished very little in the three years since his big success. It is only after his girlfriend breaks up with him that he realizes that he needs to piece back together the parts of himself that he lost along the way. One can’t help but love this goofy protagonist who is determined to get his life back and find true love. The crazy assortment of characters that he surrounds himself with on his journey only makes this book that much more enjoyable to read. I’ve already mentioned Brian and the ninja, but there is also Hannah from Montana who he falls in love with, as well as all of the emotionally unstable writers that attend the self-help group Textual Healing.
As much as I enjoyed Textual Healing, I had some issues with the writing. While there are some genuinely funny moments in this book that had me laughing out loud and going back to reread some of my favorite scenes, there were also moments that were intended to be funny, but came off as rather ludicrous instead. One example of this is when the ninja sees Hannah walk into the bookstore while Ace is asleep and decides that she must protect Ace and his store by capturing the intruder and tying her to a beanbag chair. Typically this type of behavior would be considered assault and possibly even kidnapping, but rather than be horrified by what has just happened, both Ace and Hannah find the situation humorous. Unfortunately, I did not. I was too distracted by how silly and unrealistic this scenario seemed. The other issue I had with Textual Healing was the many spelling and grammatical errors. One glaring mistake that really bugged me was when Ace was describing Hannah’s outfit and he mentions that she is wearing platform boots with heels and then a few pages later remarks on how her sneakers snap against the hard floor of the church steps. If I can spot this mistake while reading this book for the first time, I don’t see how so many others could have missed it during the editing process. Despite these minor issues I had, I found Textual Healing to be a fun read and I will be keeping an eye out for future books from this author!
I have never had a pet sugar glider, nor have I ever known any one with such an exotic pet. I wouldn’t even know where to buy one! Can you even get a sugar glider at a regular pet store? When the main character, Ace aka Andrew makes the impulsive decision to buy a sugar glider in order to impress a girl that he is smitten with, I learned that one should never leave such an unusual animal unattended. Ace’s adventure with his psychotic pet that he dubbed Ditto is just one of many scenes where the readers witness the lengths to which Ace will go to in order to impress a girl. However, it takes the right girl to show him that the best that anyone can hope for is that someone will love you for who you truly are and not the persona that you project onto others. This is a major theme in the book and is reinforced often with many of the secondary characters. Brian, the OCD vegetarian that works in Ace’s bookstore has an alter ego called Pantera that is half man, half panther with exotic moves and inexhaustible stamina. Brian, however, is just a quirky kid who lacks the confidence and sexual prowess to just be himself around women, hence the need for Pantera. We even learn that the flower-shop-owning ninja dons a disguise and speaks in haiku because she has difficulty expressing herself, especially when it comes to the pirate that she secretly yearns for.
You’re probably wondering what this story is even about. Well, Ace is a writer who had one extremely successful book that was turned into a movie. With the money that he made he bought a bookstore and spent all of his time keeping it afloat while trying to maintain his superficial relationship with his girlfriend. He never once noticed the rut that he had fallen into or that he had accomplished very little in the three years since his big success. It is only after his girlfriend breaks up with him that he realizes that he needs to piece back together the parts of himself that he lost along the way. One can’t help but love this goofy protagonist who is determined to get his life back and find true love. The crazy assortment of characters that he surrounds himself with on his journey only makes this book that much more enjoyable to read. I’ve already mentioned Brian and the ninja, but there is also Hannah from Montana who he falls in love with, as well as all of the emotionally unstable writers that attend the self-help group Textual Healing.
As much as I enjoyed Textual Healing, I had some issues with the writing. While there are some genuinely funny moments in this book that had me laughing out loud and going back to reread some of my favorite scenes, there were also moments that were intended to be funny, but came off as rather ludicrous instead. One example of this is when the ninja sees Hannah walk into the bookstore while Ace is asleep and decides that she must protect Ace and his store by capturing the intruder and tying her to a beanbag chair. Typically this type of behavior would be considered assault and possibly even kidnapping, but rather than be horrified by what has just happened, both Ace and Hannah find the situation humorous. Unfortunately, I did not. I was too distracted by how silly and unrealistic this scenario seemed. The other issue I had with Textual Healing was the many spelling and grammatical errors. One glaring mistake that really bugged me was when Ace was describing Hannah’s outfit and he mentions that she is wearing platform boots with heels and then a few pages later remarks on how her sneakers snap against the hard floor of the church steps. If I can spot this mistake while reading this book for the first time, I don’t see how so many others could have missed it during the editing process. Despite these minor issues I had, I found Textual Healing to be a fun read and I will be keeping an eye out for future books from this author!
September 21, 2011
To be honest, when I first picked up this book I had no idea what it would be about. Textual Healing? Is that some kind of “Texters Anonymous” type of meeting? Upon reading the back of the book, the mystery deepened. “Few people have to deal with a haiku-speaking flower-shop-owning ninja every day on their way to work. Unfortunately for Andrew Connor, he is one of those people.” Alas, upon reading that, I had to give it a try! Kim’s contact (and friend) at Quirk Books, Eric Smith, was happy to offer us a copy to review, so I dove right in, now nervous about the prospect of ninjas on my own commute to work.
Andrew Connor is an average Joe. Well, at least that’s how he sees himself. The world predominantly views him as the author of Chasing Fireflies, the New York Times bestseller that was made into a made-for-tv movie on HBO starring Edward Norton and Penelope Cruz. However, that was a few years ago, and Andrew hasn’t written anything since. To add insult to injury, he finds his book for a paltry $1.37 at the local Barnes & Noble. Terrified that his writing has become something of a one-hit-wonder, Andrew mulls joining a self-help group known as Textual Healing, run by his friend Stephanie. If that wasn’t enough his girlfriend, Daniela, has left him as well. If it seems like Ace’s life (his friends call him Ace) is in a sad state of affairs, then that wouldn’t be too far from the truth. However, he does have a few things going for him. He runs a moderately successful bookshop in Hoboken, NJ, has a number of good friends which he can rely on in his time of crisis, and has struck up a new friendship (and perhaps something more?) with a certain someone named Hannah. Will Ace be able to overcome his sophomore slump? What will happen between him and Hannah? Will he ever get over his ex?
I have to give Eric a lot of credit for his humor. His wordy jokes and self-deprecating humor (or Ace’s humor shall we say) kept the story light and good-natured. Even the initial breakup between Ace and Daniela has a healthy dose of humor that kept things in perspective. Eric’s story appeals to the emotions in all of us: loss of a relationship, feelings of inadequacy and failure, apprehension about meeting someone new, etc. Therefore, although the story does seem lighthearted on the surface it really does have a meaning behind the words. In connecting with our shared experiences Eric taps into feelings that we’ve all shared and makes us feel better about the many uncertainties in life. It’s as if he’s making a dramatic example using the number of pitfalls that Ace experiences all at once, but he’s telling us that it will get better as long as you have the courage to pick yourself up and move on. It’s positive thinking like this that I feel is lacking in a lot of media today, where we’re constantly bombarded with the gloom and doom of life. I feel that if more people thought like Ace does in this book, we’d be a lot better off and more self-assured. So, as a quick pep talk and fun read, this book will make you laugh and reconsider your own thoughts about how you handle the tests life throws at you. Also, it’ll make you reconsider buying a sugar glider as a pet. So, with that in mind, pick this up and give it a try!
Todd (Reflections of a Book Addict)
http://wp.me/p18lIL-zb
Andrew Connor is an average Joe. Well, at least that’s how he sees himself. The world predominantly views him as the author of Chasing Fireflies, the New York Times bestseller that was made into a made-for-tv movie on HBO starring Edward Norton and Penelope Cruz. However, that was a few years ago, and Andrew hasn’t written anything since. To add insult to injury, he finds his book for a paltry $1.37 at the local Barnes & Noble. Terrified that his writing has become something of a one-hit-wonder, Andrew mulls joining a self-help group known as Textual Healing, run by his friend Stephanie. If that wasn’t enough his girlfriend, Daniela, has left him as well. If it seems like Ace’s life (his friends call him Ace) is in a sad state of affairs, then that wouldn’t be too far from the truth. However, he does have a few things going for him. He runs a moderately successful bookshop in Hoboken, NJ, has a number of good friends which he can rely on in his time of crisis, and has struck up a new friendship (and perhaps something more?) with a certain someone named Hannah. Will Ace be able to overcome his sophomore slump? What will happen between him and Hannah? Will he ever get over his ex?
I have to give Eric a lot of credit for his humor. His wordy jokes and self-deprecating humor (or Ace’s humor shall we say) kept the story light and good-natured. Even the initial breakup between Ace and Daniela has a healthy dose of humor that kept things in perspective. Eric’s story appeals to the emotions in all of us: loss of a relationship, feelings of inadequacy and failure, apprehension about meeting someone new, etc. Therefore, although the story does seem lighthearted on the surface it really does have a meaning behind the words. In connecting with our shared experiences Eric taps into feelings that we’ve all shared and makes us feel better about the many uncertainties in life. It’s as if he’s making a dramatic example using the number of pitfalls that Ace experiences all at once, but he’s telling us that it will get better as long as you have the courage to pick yourself up and move on. It’s positive thinking like this that I feel is lacking in a lot of media today, where we’re constantly bombarded with the gloom and doom of life. I feel that if more people thought like Ace does in this book, we’d be a lot better off and more self-assured. So, as a quick pep talk and fun read, this book will make you laugh and reconsider your own thoughts about how you handle the tests life throws at you. Also, it’ll make you reconsider buying a sugar glider as a pet. So, with that in mind, pick this up and give it a try!
Todd (Reflections of a Book Addict)
http://wp.me/p18lIL-zb
April 28, 2011
Textual Healing
by Eric Smith
Rating: R; 3 ½ stars
Summary: Andrew “Ace” Connor is struggling with life. His former best-seller is now in the clearance bin, his girlfriend is gone, and he hasn't been able to write in over 3 years. However, he does have friends on his side. His best friend, Brian, sets Ace up with his wife's cousin, Hannah. His writer neighbor convinces him to join a writer's group...that just happens to end up being a support group for writers who find themselves unable to write. Ok, so maybe that was a bit of a low move. But still, it was designed to help. And of course, Andrew still has to manage his bookstore, which includes dealing with the shop owner next door, mysterious ninja Brave Orchid. Despite all the issues, Andrew will strive to repair and create relationships and maybe, just maybe, get a little writing done.
Opinions: Regardless of how much I enjoyed this novel, here's a warning to readers: it's in need of some copy-edits. There's nothing major. It changes tenses every so often, once or twice the wrong “there” is used. I also noticed some really nit-picky visual things, but I'll keep those to myself. Still, if you're one to be irritated by such things, you'll definitely notice it.
It took me awhile to get into this book. Because of where the book picks up in Andrew's life, the beginning has a lot of whining in it. It also takes awhile for the book to get to character development. But, the second half really pulls its weight. The characters really start to develop; the plot really starts to unfold. In short, the book becomes much more enjoyable. I truly found myself laughing aloud at several points. The various romantic couples were absolutely adorable. At the climax, I nearly found myself in tears, and just pages after that, my jaw had dropped of its own accord.
So, ratings. The book is rated R solely for language. I do believe that movie ratings allow for one f*** in a PG-13 movie. This book had substantially more than that. However, if it weren't for the language, this would definitely be PG-13. There is some sexual content, but none of it is explicit. The 3 ½ stars is due to the fact that although the second half of the book is very enjoyable, a lot of readers won't ever get to it if they can't get through the first half. Also, until the book picks up, some of the copy-edit things are really distracting.
This book isn't a perfect book. However, there are a lot of really wonderful moments in the second half that I can't really specify for fear of spoiling the plot. So I guess my main consensus is that if you can through the first half of the book, the second half is a very enjoyable experience. I will be recommending this book to some close friends of mine.
This book was sent to me for review by the author.
Review from my blog: lovelyreader.blogspot.com
by Eric Smith
Rating: R; 3 ½ stars
Summary: Andrew “Ace” Connor is struggling with life. His former best-seller is now in the clearance bin, his girlfriend is gone, and he hasn't been able to write in over 3 years. However, he does have friends on his side. His best friend, Brian, sets Ace up with his wife's cousin, Hannah. His writer neighbor convinces him to join a writer's group...that just happens to end up being a support group for writers who find themselves unable to write. Ok, so maybe that was a bit of a low move. But still, it was designed to help. And of course, Andrew still has to manage his bookstore, which includes dealing with the shop owner next door, mysterious ninja Brave Orchid. Despite all the issues, Andrew will strive to repair and create relationships and maybe, just maybe, get a little writing done.
Opinions: Regardless of how much I enjoyed this novel, here's a warning to readers: it's in need of some copy-edits. There's nothing major. It changes tenses every so often, once or twice the wrong “there” is used. I also noticed some really nit-picky visual things, but I'll keep those to myself. Still, if you're one to be irritated by such things, you'll definitely notice it.
It took me awhile to get into this book. Because of where the book picks up in Andrew's life, the beginning has a lot of whining in it. It also takes awhile for the book to get to character development. But, the second half really pulls its weight. The characters really start to develop; the plot really starts to unfold. In short, the book becomes much more enjoyable. I truly found myself laughing aloud at several points. The various romantic couples were absolutely adorable. At the climax, I nearly found myself in tears, and just pages after that, my jaw had dropped of its own accord.
So, ratings. The book is rated R solely for language. I do believe that movie ratings allow for one f*** in a PG-13 movie. This book had substantially more than that. However, if it weren't for the language, this would definitely be PG-13. There is some sexual content, but none of it is explicit. The 3 ½ stars is due to the fact that although the second half of the book is very enjoyable, a lot of readers won't ever get to it if they can't get through the first half. Also, until the book picks up, some of the copy-edit things are really distracting.
This book isn't a perfect book. However, there are a lot of really wonderful moments in the second half that I can't really specify for fear of spoiling the plot. So I guess my main consensus is that if you can through the first half of the book, the second half is a very enjoyable experience. I will be recommending this book to some close friends of mine.
This book was sent to me for review by the author.
Review from my blog: lovelyreader.blogspot.com
August 29, 2015
'Textual Healing' is a romantic comedy set in New York City and Hoboken, New Jersey. It's a really enjoyable, quick read. I found myself continuosly laughing throughout at the main character, Andrew (or Ace), who is completely full of quirky jokes and one-liners. I found it was easy to relate to most, if not all, of the characters. I liked all of them, literally. Which isn't a usual thing for me. I tend to find myself annoyed with at least one character but that wasn't the case with 'Textual Healing.'
The story is told through Andrew Connor, or as his friends call him, Ace. This guy has THE worst luck ever. I mean, it's not bad enough that he's down but you have to kick him too! He gets his heart broken, terrible news, loses his business, has writer's block, it just goes on and on. Andrew is a former best-selling novelist. He hasn't written anything in three years and it's due to lack of inspiration. When you're surrounded by bad people, or one person in his case, it's hard to get inspired to do anything! Andrew is a great character, very well developed and pronounced. He definitely stands out...he's not like any other characters that I've read in books so far!
Andrew isn't the only character that has serious depth, they all do! Every character has a completely separate personality and attitude. Daniela, Andrew's ex, is an egotistical bitch! She's stuck up, snobbish, and she's only worried about herself and where that next dollar's coming from. Hannah is amazing! I mean, she easily became my favorite character in 'Textual Healing.' She's so "matter-of-fact" and just tells it like it is. And I love that about her. It doesn't matter who she's dealing with or how sensitive they are, she gives it to them straight and tells them exactly what they need to hear! The side story of Brian "the Pantara" and Valerie was incredible! I found myself cracking up about so many things involving them. Oh, and we can't forget about the haiku speaking ninja. I know that she speaks in 5-7-5 haiku's so I counted it almost every time she spoke. I couldn't help it!! lol. I was waiting for her to mess up, or like, all of a sudden just start talking normally or something! lol. I'm glad she didn't!
The only bad thing I can say about 'Textual Healing' is that the jokes can seem a little overwhelming. At some points they are a bit...excessive. But, for the most part, Smith knows when to draw the line and enough is enough. Maybe I don't have a great sense of humor...Other than that, 'Textual Healing' was absolutely fabulous! I loved every minute of it. So, I'd suggest it to almost everyone. I mean, it's not a YA but it's still amazing. If you like a fun, humorous, quick read, then absolutely check out 'Textual Healing' by Eric Smith.
The story is told through Andrew Connor, or as his friends call him, Ace. This guy has THE worst luck ever. I mean, it's not bad enough that he's down but you have to kick him too! He gets his heart broken, terrible news, loses his business, has writer's block, it just goes on and on. Andrew is a former best-selling novelist. He hasn't written anything in three years and it's due to lack of inspiration. When you're surrounded by bad people, or one person in his case, it's hard to get inspired to do anything! Andrew is a great character, very well developed and pronounced. He definitely stands out...he's not like any other characters that I've read in books so far!
Andrew isn't the only character that has serious depth, they all do! Every character has a completely separate personality and attitude. Daniela, Andrew's ex, is an egotistical bitch! She's stuck up, snobbish, and she's only worried about herself and where that next dollar's coming from. Hannah is amazing! I mean, she easily became my favorite character in 'Textual Healing.' She's so "matter-of-fact" and just tells it like it is. And I love that about her. It doesn't matter who she's dealing with or how sensitive they are, she gives it to them straight and tells them exactly what they need to hear! The side story of Brian "the Pantara" and Valerie was incredible! I found myself cracking up about so many things involving them. Oh, and we can't forget about the haiku speaking ninja. I know that she speaks in 5-7-5 haiku's so I counted it almost every time she spoke. I couldn't help it!! lol. I was waiting for her to mess up, or like, all of a sudden just start talking normally or something! lol. I'm glad she didn't!
The only bad thing I can say about 'Textual Healing' is that the jokes can seem a little overwhelming. At some points they are a bit...excessive. But, for the most part, Smith knows when to draw the line and enough is enough. Maybe I don't have a great sense of humor...Other than that, 'Textual Healing' was absolutely fabulous! I loved every minute of it. So, I'd suggest it to almost everyone. I mean, it's not a YA but it's still amazing. If you like a fun, humorous, quick read, then absolutely check out 'Textual Healing' by Eric Smith.
February 14, 2011
This book had me hooked by page three when Joel Schumacher was called “the talentless hack who put nipples on Batman’s costume.” On page four a shout out to Sayid from Lost made me smile because I love Sayid. By page 17 I was totally wrapped up in the story and laughed out loud literally when I read some funny observations about “range free worms.” I have read some of the other reviews for this one on Good Reads and I think it might be the law that I use the word “quirky” to describe the book. I have to admit though that it is quirky. I love that about it.
I loved that the book had such memorable characters. How can you not love a ninja who owns a flower shop and only speaks in haiku form. Haikus are awesome; if it wasn’t so much work, I might try to speak like that for a day myself. I genuinely liked Andrew and thought he was a great main character. He wasn’t perfect but I enjoyed reading about him. Most importantly I cared what happened and I wanted him to have a happy ending. Hannah was a little bit of a mystery, I did not learn as much about her as I wanted to. I did love her attitude and free spirit.
I can not claim that the book is prefect. There are some typos and small issues like that, this does not bother me too much though. I will say that there were so many references to…. well everything (movies, music, appliances, famous people, etc.) that it did take me out of the story occasionally. It was one of those things that I liked at first but after so many, it started to detract from the great story and characters. I think if there had just been fewer they would have made a bigger impact. These were small issues and I loved the story so much, I barely noticed. When I did notice, I did not care.
I laughed loudly many times while reading this book and I can not say that often. The situations in this book were just funny! Costume parties in the summer, running into exes and getting caught staring and everything involving that little sugar-glider. I know that I love a character when I feel what they feel while I am reading. I felt a lot of embarrassment for Andrew, he has some embarrassing things happen and my stomach twisted in knots for him. I loved that I felt such a connection to him. I wanted to pull him out of the book and give him and hug and tell him it will be alright!
BOTTOM LINE: THIS WAS ONE OF THE MOST FUN BOOKS I HAVE READ IN A LONG TIME, I LOVED IT!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
I loved that the book had such memorable characters. How can you not love a ninja who owns a flower shop and only speaks in haiku form. Haikus are awesome; if it wasn’t so much work, I might try to speak like that for a day myself. I genuinely liked Andrew and thought he was a great main character. He wasn’t perfect but I enjoyed reading about him. Most importantly I cared what happened and I wanted him to have a happy ending. Hannah was a little bit of a mystery, I did not learn as much about her as I wanted to. I did love her attitude and free spirit.
I can not claim that the book is prefect. There are some typos and small issues like that, this does not bother me too much though. I will say that there were so many references to…. well everything (movies, music, appliances, famous people, etc.) that it did take me out of the story occasionally. It was one of those things that I liked at first but after so many, it started to detract from the great story and characters. I think if there had just been fewer they would have made a bigger impact. These were small issues and I loved the story so much, I barely noticed. When I did notice, I did not care.
I laughed loudly many times while reading this book and I can not say that often. The situations in this book were just funny! Costume parties in the summer, running into exes and getting caught staring and everything involving that little sugar-glider. I know that I love a character when I feel what they feel while I am reading. I felt a lot of embarrassment for Andrew, he has some embarrassing things happen and my stomach twisted in knots for him. I loved that I felt such a connection to him. I wanted to pull him out of the book and give him and hug and tell him it will be alright!
BOTTOM LINE: THIS WAS ONE OF THE MOST FUN BOOKS I HAVE READ IN A LONG TIME, I LOVED IT!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
March 9, 2011
First, there is Andrew Conner, or as he prefers, Ace. He was once a best-selling author, but now he suffers from a drought of inspiration. He’s neither the hyper-masculine brute nor the silent, brooding type that seems to plague too many novels (of the romantic sort). He’s dorky and quirky and witty and well-read, and even at his lowest, Ace still elicits some smiles—even a few chuckles. Then there is Hannah, a spunky gal from Montana who makes me wonder why can’t more heroines be like her? She has an insatiable case of wanderlust, and she speaks her mind. She just might be the cure for Ace’s writer’s block.
My favorite characters though? It’s a toss-up! On one hand, I really connected with Valerie, a young woman working in Ace’s bookshop. She’s shy, teetering on socially awkward, and she always has her nose buried in a book or in her homework. But! She has a secret, which is revealed in time. On the other hand, I loved the Orchid, the ninja who owns the flower shop across from Ace’s bookstore. She only speaks in haikus and she (almost literally) kicks ass. I say almost literally because I don’t think she actually kicked anyone in the rump; she does tie up “evil doers” though, and she chucks shuriken at people.
This only scratches the surface of all the incredible characters readers get to meet in Smith’s Textual Healing. I was in book heaven since I’m one of those people who crave well-written characters over intriguing plot and world building and…other stuff.
There were a number of pop culture references, which might be distracting to some readers. I thought they were tastefully done though and often hilarious. I especially loved the nod to the epic pirate vs. ninja debate. There were some grammatical errors. The pen wasn’t within reach, so I didn’t mark up my book. Honestly, I didn’t find it as frustrating as I’m sure others may. I think I was too invested in the story to care, really. And, although often laugh out loud hilarious (seriously, it was), some of the humor was a little…overkill? For the most part though, Smith knew where to draw the line.
I typically avoid romantic comedies/romance novels, but Textual Healing offered a fresh approach to a plot line that can easily become clichéd and full of one-dimensional characters. Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.
My favorite characters though? It’s a toss-up! On one hand, I really connected with Valerie, a young woman working in Ace’s bookshop. She’s shy, teetering on socially awkward, and she always has her nose buried in a book or in her homework. But! She has a secret, which is revealed in time. On the other hand, I loved the Orchid, the ninja who owns the flower shop across from Ace’s bookstore. She only speaks in haikus and she (almost literally) kicks ass. I say almost literally because I don’t think she actually kicked anyone in the rump; she does tie up “evil doers” though, and she chucks shuriken at people.
This only scratches the surface of all the incredible characters readers get to meet in Smith’s Textual Healing. I was in book heaven since I’m one of those people who crave well-written characters over intriguing plot and world building and…other stuff.
There were a number of pop culture references, which might be distracting to some readers. I thought they were tastefully done though and often hilarious. I especially loved the nod to the epic pirate vs. ninja debate. There were some grammatical errors. The pen wasn’t within reach, so I didn’t mark up my book. Honestly, I didn’t find it as frustrating as I’m sure others may. I think I was too invested in the story to care, really. And, although often laugh out loud hilarious (seriously, it was), some of the humor was a little…overkill? For the most part though, Smith knew where to draw the line.
I typically avoid romantic comedies/romance novels, but Textual Healing offered a fresh approach to a plot line that can easily become clichéd and full of one-dimensional characters. Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.
February 15, 2011
Textual Healing by Eric Smith
Reviewed by Moirae the fates book reviews.
Few people have to deal with a haiku-speaking flower-shop-owning ninja every day on their way to work. Unfortunately for Andrew Connor, he is one of those people.
And poor Andrew, his week has been a rough one. His former bestseller, Chasing Fireflies, is on clearance at Barnes & Noble for $1.37, his girlfriend left him for a corporate America action figure, and he's been tricked into joining Textual Healing, a support group for writers who can't seem to write anymore.
Dealing with his employees at his failing used bookshop, a strange new love interest from the Midwest, and a pet sugar-glider that has somehow managed to destroy his entire apartment... when will he ever find the time to put pen to paper again?
A quirky comedy set in present day New York and New Jersey, Textual Healing follows the story of Andrew, a self-deprecating, once famous author, his small bookstore in Hoboken, and the colorful characters that surround him. (Synopsis provided by goodreads)
Wow, where to start! I really liked this book! It was full of witty characters and the situations they find themselves in always had humor to them. The internal dialogue that Ace has during the book is some of the funniest I have read.
I simply loved Hannah’s character; she was full of life and charm. The dialogue was great, witty and fun. I enjoyed how Smith wrote some of the corny romantic bits, and his characters knew they were corny and made jokes about it. Smith has a gift and a great sense of humor.
The whole book is great, I can’t pick decide on a favorite scene. The scenes with Ace’s pet are hysterical. I really hope this book gets picked up for a movie, it would make a great film!
If you have not had a chance to read this book, you should it’s the best I’ve read this year, my only complaint is that I wish it was longer. Smith is an author I will be watching!
Overall rating: ***** 5 out of 5 stars.
Cover art: I like the simplicity of it, it made me want to know more.
Obtained: I received this book from Eric Smith for an honest review. Thank you.
Reviewed by Moirae the fates book reviews.
Few people have to deal with a haiku-speaking flower-shop-owning ninja every day on their way to work. Unfortunately for Andrew Connor, he is one of those people.
And poor Andrew, his week has been a rough one. His former bestseller, Chasing Fireflies, is on clearance at Barnes & Noble for $1.37, his girlfriend left him for a corporate America action figure, and he's been tricked into joining Textual Healing, a support group for writers who can't seem to write anymore.
Dealing with his employees at his failing used bookshop, a strange new love interest from the Midwest, and a pet sugar-glider that has somehow managed to destroy his entire apartment... when will he ever find the time to put pen to paper again?
A quirky comedy set in present day New York and New Jersey, Textual Healing follows the story of Andrew, a self-deprecating, once famous author, his small bookstore in Hoboken, and the colorful characters that surround him. (Synopsis provided by goodreads)
Wow, where to start! I really liked this book! It was full of witty characters and the situations they find themselves in always had humor to them. The internal dialogue that Ace has during the book is some of the funniest I have read.
I simply loved Hannah’s character; she was full of life and charm. The dialogue was great, witty and fun. I enjoyed how Smith wrote some of the corny romantic bits, and his characters knew they were corny and made jokes about it. Smith has a gift and a great sense of humor.
The whole book is great, I can’t pick decide on a favorite scene. The scenes with Ace’s pet are hysterical. I really hope this book gets picked up for a movie, it would make a great film!
If you have not had a chance to read this book, you should it’s the best I’ve read this year, my only complaint is that I wish it was longer. Smith is an author I will be watching!
Overall rating: ***** 5 out of 5 stars.
Cover art: I like the simplicity of it, it made me want to know more.
Obtained: I received this book from Eric Smith for an honest review. Thank you.
October 24, 2011
How do you describe a book about a once-famous author who owns a failing used bookshop, with characters such as a haiku-speaking ninja, a maniacal sugarglider, and a group of authors who can no longer write?
In one word: hysterical.
Eric Smith's first work of fiction, Textual Healing, features just that and more. Dumped by his girlfriend, author Andrew Connor never expects life will change. His one rousing success, which was made into a feature film, bring him nothing but painful reminders that he has not written anything since. Anyone who does recognize him drive that point home by assuming that they thought he died.
The only excitement in his life is the daily stealth visits from Brave Orchid, a flower shop owner/ninja who enters, delivers a haiku, then leaves with a ninja battle against an invisible enemy in the street. That is, until he's introduced to Hannah, a beautiful backpacking woman who keeps him on his toes and helps him see what he's missing out on in life.
I absolutely loved and adored this book. It's not only one of my favorites for the year, but of all time. This feel good romantic comedy had me laughing out loud. I don't mean one of those anemic puffs of air that come out of your nose as you suppress a mild chuckle. No, these are out loud, hold my ribs, dog looks at me funny kind of laughs.
I sincerely hope Eric Smith will write more--he has a life-long fan now! I would love to see this as a movie (even though, as we all know, the book will always be infinitely better). His style of writing is engaging, witty, and he is an all-around great storyteller.
I loved the book so much that when it was over (I hate it when that happens) I sniffled and clutched the book to my chest. That is a sign of true love for me, at least where books are concerned. I've insisted my husband and daughter read it as well.
I give this five stars/
And hope you read this Rom-Com/
It is that awesome.
(Sorry Brave Orchid. I tried.)
In one word: hysterical.
Eric Smith's first work of fiction, Textual Healing, features just that and more. Dumped by his girlfriend, author Andrew Connor never expects life will change. His one rousing success, which was made into a feature film, bring him nothing but painful reminders that he has not written anything since. Anyone who does recognize him drive that point home by assuming that they thought he died.
The only excitement in his life is the daily stealth visits from Brave Orchid, a flower shop owner/ninja who enters, delivers a haiku, then leaves with a ninja battle against an invisible enemy in the street. That is, until he's introduced to Hannah, a beautiful backpacking woman who keeps him on his toes and helps him see what he's missing out on in life.
I absolutely loved and adored this book. It's not only one of my favorites for the year, but of all time. This feel good romantic comedy had me laughing out loud. I don't mean one of those anemic puffs of air that come out of your nose as you suppress a mild chuckle. No, these are out loud, hold my ribs, dog looks at me funny kind of laughs.
I sincerely hope Eric Smith will write more--he has a life-long fan now! I would love to see this as a movie (even though, as we all know, the book will always be infinitely better). His style of writing is engaging, witty, and he is an all-around great storyteller.
I loved the book so much that when it was over (I hate it when that happens) I sniffled and clutched the book to my chest. That is a sign of true love for me, at least where books are concerned. I've insisted my husband and daughter read it as well.
I give this five stars/
And hope you read this Rom-Com/
It is that awesome.
(Sorry Brave Orchid. I tried.)
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