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The Cubicle Next Door
Siri Mitchell’s insightful, funny chick–lit style shines in this story of putting up walls and tearing them down—all for love. Jackie Harrison, a computer administrator at the Air Force Academy, is a self–proclaimed geek who must share her cubicle space with the new guy, instructor and former pilot Joe Gallagher. She turns to her online journal to vent and eventually to express growing feelings toward this office neighbor who is everything she is not—fun, happy, and social. But when her blog is featured as a top pick on primetime news, everyone reads it—including Joe. Will he figure out the words of adoration and confusion are written about him? And will Jackie ever risk expressing her heart offline?
352 pages, Paperback
First published August 8, 2006
23 people are currently reading
1317 people want to read
About the author
Siri L. Mitchell
5 books33 followersalso published under the name Siri Mitchell & Iris Anthony
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
February 26, 2010
First off, let me say how totally and completely aggravated I was with Jackie's uptight personality. Listen, I eat organic, recycle, and try to conserve, but her neurotic behavior and piety about her choices made me crazy at times. At first, because of her actions, I couldn't understand why her cubicle mate Joe would even want to be her friend. It seemed bizarre to me that Joe would continue to ask her to lunch, to run errands, etc., but he did! However, I have to give Mitchell credit in that, over time, we continue to learn more about the insecurities riddling Jackie (her mother abandoned her at birth, and her father died before she was born, in Vietnam). Through a series of blog posts, examining her confusion over what she wants for her life, I began to feel sorry for her. I did think the popularity of the blog, so much so that it was featured repeatedly on TV, was a bit far-fetched. As the writer of this blog, I doubt that if I whined about my job and my love life, that this alone would draw readers by the thousands, right? So, I could be wrong, but that's just a guess. Therefore, that part reminded me that it was all fiction.
Overall, I do think that with development the ridiculous moments blend away. I became so caught up in wanting to see how saintly-man Joe would handle this pain-ridden woman, that I really got sucked into the story. It is a clean story, with no sex scenes to jar your reading, and the intimacy is really of the strong relationship kind--deeply emotional at times. The storyline is playful, emotional, and gut-wrenching, all at the same time, and on a scale of escape reads, I would say it's pretty good.
Overall, I do think that with development the ridiculous moments blend away. I became so caught up in wanting to see how saintly-man Joe would handle this pain-ridden woman, that I really got sucked into the story. It is a clean story, with no sex scenes to jar your reading, and the intimacy is really of the strong relationship kind--deeply emotional at times. The storyline is playful, emotional, and gut-wrenching, all at the same time, and on a scale of escape reads, I would say it's pretty good.
June 22, 2013
Overall: Love this book. Love the premise, love everything about it. Look, I actually had to look up to see if it was written in first or third person. For me, that's huge. It's first and I didn't even notice as I was reading it.
What I liked: I love the premise. I absolutely adore her humor, and she even made being "green" fun rather than obnoxious. I liked that everything wasn't smooth sailing AND everything wasn't one nightmare after the next. She balanced that really well.
What I didn't like: Well, there wasn't anything that I can remember aside from a few hilarious typos that are not the fault of the author, of course. There were several in a two-page spread and it absolutely cracked me up even though it was annoying as well. Still, I know how frustrating it is to get dinged for typos that made it through the editing process. It happens. I get that.
Notes: There was nothing in it that detracted from the star rating. I love the book and recommend it.
What I liked: I love the premise. I absolutely adore her humor, and she even made being "green" fun rather than obnoxious. I liked that everything wasn't smooth sailing AND everything wasn't one nightmare after the next. She balanced that really well.
What I didn't like: Well, there wasn't anything that I can remember aside from a few hilarious typos that are not the fault of the author, of course. There were several in a two-page spread and it absolutely cracked me up even though it was annoying as well. Still, I know how frustrating it is to get dinged for typos that made it through the editing process. It happens. I get that.
Notes: There was nothing in it that detracted from the star rating. I love the book and recommend it.
August 14, 2016
THE CUBICLE NEXT DOOR
A Fake-Blog as Review
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THE CUBICLE MATE SPEAKS UP
You've got to be kidding me
My new office mate will not shut-up about the environment. I mean, I recycle. I care. Sure, there are ways that I can improve and do better, but for the love of Pike's Peak already!
She claims to be a Christian, but if so, why does she only talk about the creation and not the Creator?
Oh, and what's with this crazy straw conspiracy theory? Straws are great--especially the fun ones that bend at the neck.
I don't want to judge too quickly, but she is so critical that she wears me out...
POSTED ON JUNE 07
COMMENTS
Don't let anyone hold you down with their negativity!
Posted by: peaceloveharmony | June 07 at 10:16 a.m.
Some people see God best through nature. Doesn't mean they don't believe!
Posted by: BigBeliever | June 07 at 10:37 a.m.
---------------------------------------
Okay. I could not resist a little fun pretending to be "the other blogger." Now for the real review.
Obviously my number one problem with this book is that I felt absolutely hit over the head with the environmental stuff. It pains me to word this so strongly, but I felt like it was being evangelized.
Please read this clearly: There is absolutely, without question, nothing wrong with being a good steward of nature, the earth, etc... There is nothing wrong with recycling, questioning the way we use resources, etc...
However (hang with me here), if someone were to take out virtually every sentence in which the protagonist mentions the environment and replace it with normal dialog about families, hopes for the future, past pains, fears, etc..., would the story be the better for it?
In my opinion, yes! Here are a few reasons why:
1. It would have made the protagonist seem less cold-hearted, etc... The reader would learn more about her and then maybe understand why she is so distant, hurt, etc...
2. The protagonist may have grown more in the course of the story, potentially helping the reader to feel more connected.
3. It would have allowed the love interest to be fleshed out as a more dynamic character.
4. The story would have seemed less one-sided.
5. It would not have affected the structure of the plot.
Here are some positives:
1. The blog idea is great. (For me, it grew a bit tedious at the end, and I did NOT like the way the book ended overall, but it is still a really neat idea.)
2. Some of the characters were really fun and interesting, and there is some funny dialog here!
3. I really enjoyed the shift in environment. This may be the first time I have read a fictional chic-lit story where the setting has involved military personnel (in such depth and detail).
4. I think there was so much potential in this story and plot and in some of the writing! I enjoyed parts of the book a great deal!
5. Because of some of the story's strengths, I would be very open to reading another of this author's works.
One final thought:
I do not think this couple would make it in real life, at least as they are written.
September 15, 2018
All. The. Feels!
April 29, 2010
Reminiscent of the Weddings by Bella Series, THE CUBICLE NEXT DOOR, is every bit as hilarious and had me howling in the aisles.
Jackie is a no nonsense kind of woman. She hasn’t gotten over 30 without knowing how to avoid relationships she wants no part of. But when the administration of her building divides her cubicle and puts Joe in the opposite office, nothing will ever be the same.
I am pretty picky when it comes to books with humor. Usually it is nailed or it just comes off as trying too hard. But this book was perfect! I was laughing so hard at times that my stomach hurt.
Jackie is the perfect heroine. She is unique, funny and has a dry sense of humor that keeps the reader turning pages as fast as possible. The chemistry between Joe and Jackie was fabulous. Her pushing away and Joe determined to worm his way into her heart.
The only thing I didn’t like, was the issue of divorce and remarriage. I didn’t think that was an issue that needed to be addressed the way it was in the book and it affected how I liked the ending. Though the book was still fabulous, I would have liked it better if it hadn’t brought up Joe’s previous marriage.
If you like a rip- roaring comedy, a heroine who struggles, but shows humor in every moment and a to die for hero, this book is perfect for you! I loved it and wish it had never ended!
Jackie is a no nonsense kind of woman. She hasn’t gotten over 30 without knowing how to avoid relationships she wants no part of. But when the administration of her building divides her cubicle and puts Joe in the opposite office, nothing will ever be the same.
I am pretty picky when it comes to books with humor. Usually it is nailed or it just comes off as trying too hard. But this book was perfect! I was laughing so hard at times that my stomach hurt.
Jackie is the perfect heroine. She is unique, funny and has a dry sense of humor that keeps the reader turning pages as fast as possible. The chemistry between Joe and Jackie was fabulous. Her pushing away and Joe determined to worm his way into her heart.
The only thing I didn’t like, was the issue of divorce and remarriage. I didn’t think that was an issue that needed to be addressed the way it was in the book and it affected how I liked the ending. Though the book was still fabulous, I would have liked it better if it hadn’t brought up Joe’s previous marriage.
If you like a rip- roaring comedy, a heroine who struggles, but shows humor in every moment and a to die for hero, this book is perfect for you! I loved it and wish it had never ended!
June 5, 2014
Jackie is determined not to be her mother—the woman who got pregnant without being married, then lost her boyfriend to the war in Vietnam, and ran off to India immediately after giving birth, never to return. So Jackie becomes everything her mother is not: a computer geek, an environmentalist, and an office worker at the Air Force Academy. She has no intention of ever falling in love with anyone.
Nor of sharing her life—or her office—with, say, a very good-looking and extremely effusive ex-pilot named Jo.
Unfortunately the powers that be—her boss, the Air Force, and the little old ladies that make up her grandmother’s bridge club—all seem to differ.
The Cubicle Next Door is a light, engaging contemporary romance with a wonderfully stubborn heroine and, possibly, an even more stubborn hero. Good fun and definitely worth reading, especially if you have enjoyed any of Siri Mitchell’s other books.
Nor of sharing her life—or her office—with, say, a very good-looking and extremely effusive ex-pilot named Jo.
Unfortunately the powers that be—her boss, the Air Force, and the little old ladies that make up her grandmother’s bridge club—all seem to differ.
The Cubicle Next Door is a light, engaging contemporary romance with a wonderfully stubborn heroine and, possibly, an even more stubborn hero. Good fun and definitely worth reading, especially if you have enjoyed any of Siri Mitchell’s other books.
March 10, 2012
I don't read a lot of chick lit or romance novels, but I've read enough to know that this is pretty standard and fluffy entertainment. So that is how I read it, as just fluffy beach-read entertainment.
And I was still completely annoyed.
Jackie is a weak character, as I mentioned. She has chosen to isolate herself from all relationships except those she develops online. As Joe (the guy) pursues her, she whines and cringes and hems and haws and winds up acting really rude because of her neurosis. For some reason, Joe is willing to hang around her for a year (the passage of time got weird) and put up with all of this. And I was like, yeah right, I'd so be out of there.
And I was still completely annoyed.
Jackie is a weak character, as I mentioned. She has chosen to isolate herself from all relationships except those she develops online. As Joe (the guy) pursues her, she whines and cringes and hems and haws and winds up acting really rude because of her neurosis. For some reason, Joe is willing to hang around her for a year (the passage of time got weird) and put up with all of this. And I was like, yeah right, I'd so be out of there.
September 24, 2014
There were so many things I hated about this book so I will start with the good things.
1) The relationship between Jackie and Joe is not physical. It develops slowly overtime. (Kudos to the author for that!!!)
2) The ending was sweet. The slight twist was nice.
3) Adding the blog posts at the end of the chapters was cute.
4) I liked Oliver and the grandmother.
5) The first 50 pages made me laugh out loud. The book actually started really good. I thought it was going to be an easy 4 stars...
BUT THEN
1) The author got carried away with details. I was bogged down in details--meaningless details.
2) The book goes for long, long, long stretched without any kind of plot. Though it was only about 325 pgs it began to feel like the longest book I had ever read.
3)The blog posts started off interesting and then they became so boring and whiny that it is unfathomable why the blog would get the media attention it did.
4) Some scenes went on and on, but other more important scenes that could have been developed stopped abruptly. It was really quite jarring.
5) The writer decided to hit the reader over the head with her personal religious beliefs even elevating her particular religious persuasion (Catholicism) above all the other denominations.
6) I just never got that close to Jackie. At many points in the story I didn't care what happened to her and I thought Joe (smoking hot as he was) was a huge glutton for punishment. It is unrealistic that a nice, psychologically well-adjusted man would want a woman as completely screwed up as Jackie. In real life women like Jackie end up alone for life or the victim of some psychologically unstable, abusive relationship.
I would give this book an almost 2 stars because it was almost ok. The few bright spots were nice. But I'm tired of books about heroines that need rescuing and dashing, near-perfect heroes that win them over with long-suffering kindness. All in all, The Cubicle Next Door is a forgettable read, with a few shining moments that cannot at all compensate for the tedious, lackluster ones.
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1) The relationship between Jackie and Joe is not physical. It develops slowly overtime. (Kudos to the author for that!!!)
2) The ending was sweet. The slight twist was nice.
3) Adding the blog posts at the end of the chapters was cute.
4) I liked Oliver and the grandmother.
5) The first 50 pages made me laugh out loud. The book actually started really good. I thought it was going to be an easy 4 stars...
BUT THEN
1) The author got carried away with details. I was bogged down in details--meaningless details.
2) The book goes for long, long, long stretched without any kind of plot. Though it was only about 325 pgs it began to feel like the longest book I had ever read.
3)The blog posts started off interesting and then they became so boring and whiny that it is unfathomable why the blog would get the media attention it did.
4) Some scenes went on and on, but other more important scenes that could have been developed stopped abruptly. It was really quite jarring.
5) The writer decided to hit the reader over the head with her personal religious beliefs even elevating her particular religious persuasion (Catholicism) above all the other denominations.
6) I just never got that close to Jackie. At many points in the story I didn't care what happened to her and I thought Joe (smoking hot as he was) was a huge glutton for punishment. It is unrealistic that a nice, psychologically well-adjusted man would want a woman as completely screwed up as Jackie. In real life women like Jackie end up alone for life or the victim of some psychologically unstable, abusive relationship.
I would give this book an almost 2 stars because it was almost ok. The few bright spots were nice. But I'm tired of books about heroines that need rescuing and dashing, near-perfect heroes that win them over with long-suffering kindness. All in all, The Cubicle Next Door is a forgettable read, with a few shining moments that cannot at all compensate for the tedious, lackluster ones.
Like what you read? Visit me at my blog
January 14, 2014
It was a cute story, but I agree with one of the other reviewers who said it felt like environmentalism was being shoved down our throats. Also, since this is supposed to be Christian chic-lit, I expected a stronger message. Part of me enjoyed it, part of me was annoyed, and part of me was disappointed.
December 19, 2022
The Cubicle Next Door by Siri Mitchell is the first book I have read by her, but it won't be my last. She is one of those authors that write across multiple genres, and I have a few more of her books 😁
The cover of this book is what first caught my attention. It looked like a cute, fun read. It did not disappoint, it is a cute, fun read. I loved the witty banter and Jackie's snarky attitude, especially toward Joe. I loved that Joe never took no for an answer and was constantly pushing Jackie beyond her comfort zone. I loved the blog entries. I loved the Colorado setting. I laughed at the coffin race (you know you want to know more about that, LOL). I adored Jackie's grandmother and honorary grandmothers.
However, not everything was cute and fun. Jackie was dealing with her past and trying to figure out her future. She had quite a bit of character growth. Joe's character growth was subtle, but there. The storyline takes you through a range of emotions before dumping you at the expected happily ever after.
While the book is labeled "Christian" it is not in your face. It is mainly mentioned when it talks about them looking for a church. There is no preaching, scripture verses, or prayer in the book. It's just a clean read.
I loved everything about this book.
The cover of this book is what first caught my attention. It looked like a cute, fun read. It did not disappoint, it is a cute, fun read. I loved the witty banter and Jackie's snarky attitude, especially toward Joe. I loved that Joe never took no for an answer and was constantly pushing Jackie beyond her comfort zone. I loved the blog entries. I loved the Colorado setting. I laughed at the coffin race (you know you want to know more about that, LOL). I adored Jackie's grandmother and honorary grandmothers.
However, not everything was cute and fun. Jackie was dealing with her past and trying to figure out her future. She had quite a bit of character growth. Joe's character growth was subtle, but there. The storyline takes you through a range of emotions before dumping you at the expected happily ever after.
While the book is labeled "Christian" it is not in your face. It is mainly mentioned when it talks about them looking for a church. There is no preaching, scripture verses, or prayer in the book. It's just a clean read.
I loved everything about this book.
August 10, 2021
3.5 I enjoyed the humorous bits…but some of it was a little too far fetched… never the less, a fun light hearted read.
November 2, 2011
This is one of my favorite books. Between a cute story of learning how to love and trust and becoming secure in yourself and your faith, it takes place not only in my home state of Colorado, but in my most favorite spot in Colorado -- Manitou Springs.
The characters of Jackie and Joe just leap off the page and sparkle with personality. Even the cast of supporting characters are memorable and full of life. Plus, if you're a cubicle dweller who has worked for the government there are a lot of instances in the storyline where you will be nodding your head in understanding.
However! If you don't live in Colorado...Or aren't a cubicle dweller...You can still get plenty out of this book. Yes, it is a contemporary Christian title but religion is never forced down your throat and it is dealt with in a very respectful manner.
I've read this book so many times that I find myself wishing there were a sequel. Maybe...?
The characters of Jackie and Joe just leap off the page and sparkle with personality. Even the cast of supporting characters are memorable and full of life. Plus, if you're a cubicle dweller who has worked for the government there are a lot of instances in the storyline where you will be nodding your head in understanding.
However! If you don't live in Colorado...Or aren't a cubicle dweller...You can still get plenty out of this book. Yes, it is a contemporary Christian title but religion is never forced down your throat and it is dealt with in a very respectful manner.
I've read this book so many times that I find myself wishing there were a sequel. Maybe...?
August 23, 2015
This is the first time I have read any of Mitchell's work. In fact, I only stumbled across her name after I had finished a story from a different author yesterday and saw a novel of Mitchell's advertised. Even though that particular story advertised didn't particularly appeal to my current reading genre I decided to check her other works out. So glad I gave "The Cubicle Next Door" a read! This story had me laughing out loud some many times & kept me reading late into the night because I could not put it down. I loved how Mitchell helped her characters, who were really quite different from each other, learn to grow in their understanding and respect; for themselves, each other and for the other people around them. I rarely ever comment on the books that I have read. Usually I just rate it with a few stars and move on to the next novel/author on my list. But this is was a lovely, clean, feel good story that I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward to exploring her other works.
February 16, 2011
There's a little something I liked about the main character from the get-go; probably her snide commentary. Then again there were many times I wanted to ring her neck. Like when she instructs her co-worker from using fast-food straws because they contaminate the planet, how SUVs are evil gas guzzlers, and other aggressive earth-freak jargon. Point is, she develops by the end into a more likable, less angry, more self-aware version of herself. It's the transformation that grabs your heart and helps you appreciate the story.
April 3, 2009
Ok, so this author frustrates me..Sometimes I wish she would just take the "Christian" off of the description of the book! However, her writing is awesome so I still can't help but read her books! It's not that there is anything "wicked" in her books, it is just that her philosophies are very "new-age", liberal Christian type views.. That said, I LOVED this book! (Despite the heroine's weird tree-hugger tendencies).
October 20, 2009
I had many shared experiences with the female lead in this book. In some ways, it was like looking at a younger version of myself.
However, I also wanted to shake the main character and say WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!?! because it was so frustrating. I'm glad that she's a fictional character and not me. :)
However, I also wanted to shake the main character and say WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!?! because it was so frustrating. I'm glad that she's a fictional character and not me. :)
September 17, 2009
I'm surprised by how much I'm enjoying this. Most chic lit doesn't involve civilians working at the Airforce Academy, but I'm also guessing this is a Jesus book and that if I looked up the publisher, it would be a Church-run publishing house. The binding makes me think it might be the same publisher as Jane Austen Ruined My Life, another Jesus book in chic-lit clothing.
November 12, 2012
Awesome book, a rather fun read, I enjoyed reading of the main characters not so secret love for her Cubicle mate, in her secret blog, great story, I highly recommend this one.
March 2, 2015
I ended up really liking this story. But not because of the MC. She drove me crazy most of the book. But Joe? Joe was awesome. He made the entire book worth it. And that was an excellent ending.
September 25, 2023
This is the first contemporary fiction book I’ve ever really loved! It was fun to visit the Air Force Academy and hear some military lingo. I’m not sure there are a lot of military type romances in Christian fiction that aren’t suspense.
A lot of people commented that they didn’t like Jackie’s being an environmentalist. I honestly didn’t the impression the author was promoting environmentalism, but that it was something Jackie fixated on because it was something she could control. And something that wouldn’t leave her or let her down.
My only complain was that sometimes the author would go into what I felt like were drawn out descriptions of certain activities or events, but I’m a super skimmer so I just did that if I wanted to. Buying skis description? Skimmed. Super awesome AF academy football game? Didn’t skim.
Otherwise, this was a very entertaining and fun book with some depth that I wasn’t expecting in the second half. I almost think this wasn’t a romance, but more of the story of Jackie learning that she’s worthy of love and others are worthy of trust.
Glad to have found Siri Mitchell!!!
A lot of people commented that they didn’t like Jackie’s being an environmentalist. I honestly didn’t the impression the author was promoting environmentalism, but that it was something Jackie fixated on because it was something she could control. And something that wouldn’t leave her or let her down.
My only complain was that sometimes the author would go into what I felt like were drawn out descriptions of certain activities or events, but I’m a super skimmer so I just did that if I wanted to. Buying skis description? Skimmed. Super awesome AF academy football game? Didn’t skim.
Otherwise, this was a very entertaining and fun book with some depth that I wasn’t expecting in the second half. I almost think this wasn’t a romance, but more of the story of Jackie learning that she’s worthy of love and others are worthy of trust.
Glad to have found Siri Mitchell!!!
January 19, 2021
There is so much to absolutely adore here! The characters and the banter. The comedy and the oh-so-sweet romance. I really loved the slow-building relationship. And I couldn't get enough of the blog posts and the way it was realistically formatted. The details in the blog was a great touch. I can't praise it enough ... so I doubly hate having to say anything negative, but unfortunately, I do.
Being a conservative Christian, I couldn't agree with characters' understanding of church membership or divorce. There are other ways where Mitchell inspires and entertains, but my conscience won't allow me to ignore a couple of areas that I was uncomfortable with.
I do sing high praises of The Cubicle Next Door and intend to reread it, but I feel it's best to also share a warning for those who would want it.
Being a conservative Christian, I couldn't agree with characters' understanding of church membership or divorce. There are other ways where Mitchell inspires and entertains, but my conscience won't allow me to ignore a couple of areas that I was uncomfortable with.
I do sing high praises of The Cubicle Next Door and intend to reread it, but I feel it's best to also share a warning for those who would want it.
September 26, 2022
Fun characters, with satisfying character development of the female lead.
August 25, 2019
2019 read: this book is just as good as I read the first time - cute and charming! And I can't believe I wrote such a longggg review in 2016.
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I adored "The Cubicle Next Door" and absolutely enjoyed reading it. This is the second Siri Mitchell's contemporary book that I have read. The other one "Chateau of Echoes" is poles apart from this book in terms of content, tone and narration.
The book is in first person narrative of Jackie Harrison aged 31, who works as computer administrator in US Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, and she lives in Manitou Springs. The story is about how her life changes after Joe Gallagher aged 37, a pilot who has come to the Academy to teach, enters her next cubicle and her life. Jackie, due to her relationship or rather non-relationship with her mother is determined not to fall in love. And Joe makes her rethink her strategy.
The first thing I loved about this book is the dry and sarcastic humor in Jackie's thoughts/words and also Joe's wit. There are many laugh out loud moments, though they tapered towards the end. The next is Jackie's blog, where she vents/shows her real emotions. I liked the comments section too in her blog where her regulars always have something to say. The next thing I admired is Joe. He is so lovable and perfect. Even though he has his own problems and knows about Jackie's limitations, he stays with her. Joe is one of my favorite male leads ever!
It is fun to read about the Air Force Academy especially the teaching part, the skiing technicalities, Jackie's trivia related to saving Earth, Jackie's Grandmother and her friends. The conversations between Jackie and Joe are delightful and put a smile on my face often. I just read this book a couple of weeks back, but thinking about their barbs at each other makes me want to re-read it now.
Though I am raving about the humor in this book, do not think that the whole book is full of it. Around 75%, there is less of humor and more of drama mainly due to Jackie's confusion about her feelings towards Joe. I was frustrated that she couldn't see how well-suited they are for each other. But it is still entertaining to read.
In all of Mitchell's books, the main character, who is generally a woman and her romantic lead don't get a lot of pages of being together. But here, it is full of Jackie and Joe together. Even then, their interactions and conversations are not repetitive. The romance is not in-your-face type, but more slow-going. Through a long period of time, their relationship moves from acquaintance to friendship and more.
The ending is also neatly done - not too dramatic, but with a little twist.
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I adored "The Cubicle Next Door" and absolutely enjoyed reading it. This is the second Siri Mitchell's contemporary book that I have read. The other one "Chateau of Echoes" is poles apart from this book in terms of content, tone and narration.
The book is in first person narrative of Jackie Harrison aged 31, who works as computer administrator in US Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, and she lives in Manitou Springs. The story is about how her life changes after Joe Gallagher aged 37, a pilot who has come to the Academy to teach, enters her next cubicle and her life. Jackie, due to her relationship or rather non-relationship with her mother is determined not to fall in love. And Joe makes her rethink her strategy.
The first thing I loved about this book is the dry and sarcastic humor in Jackie's thoughts/words and also Joe's wit. There are many laugh out loud moments, though they tapered towards the end. The next is Jackie's blog, where she vents/shows her real emotions. I liked the comments section too in her blog where her regulars always have something to say. The next thing I admired is Joe. He is so lovable and perfect. Even though he has his own problems and knows about Jackie's limitations, he stays with her. Joe is one of my favorite male leads ever!
It is fun to read about the Air Force Academy especially the teaching part, the skiing technicalities, Jackie's trivia related to saving Earth, Jackie's Grandmother and her friends. The conversations between Jackie and Joe are delightful and put a smile on my face often. I just read this book a couple of weeks back, but thinking about their barbs at each other makes me want to re-read it now.
Though I am raving about the humor in this book, do not think that the whole book is full of it. Around 75%, there is less of humor and more of drama mainly due to Jackie's confusion about her feelings towards Joe. I was frustrated that she couldn't see how well-suited they are for each other. But it is still entertaining to read.
In all of Mitchell's books, the main character, who is generally a woman and her romantic lead don't get a lot of pages of being together. But here, it is full of Jackie and Joe together. Even then, their interactions and conversations are not repetitive. The romance is not in-your-face type, but more slow-going. Through a long period of time, their relationship moves from acquaintance to friendship and more.
The ending is also neatly done - not too dramatic, but with a little twist.
June 27, 2019
Maybe it's because I used to blog regularly, or maybe it was because I've been to the Springs and could picture a number of landmarks in this book, but I enjoyed this story more than I thought initially. This isn't a quick romance, and I would say it's more about how Jackie learns to move on for herself instead of about how Jackie lands the guy.
I enjoyed reading the blog posts that footed some of the chapters, along with the selection of posted comments.
I enjoyed reading the blog posts that footed some of the chapters, along with the selection of posted comments.
June 18, 2012
Jackie has vowed to never get married or fall in love, so desperate is her fear of repeating her mother's mistakes. At 31 Jackie has never had a boyfriend, never dated, never been kissed. She lives a secluded life... or at least she used to, but ever since Joe entered the picture she finds herself constantly getting sucked into his plans and outings, simply because she doesn't have a valid reason to say "no".
I loved how Joe came into Jackie's life and sort of acted like they were already in the middle of a friendship; from day one he was dragging her out to lunch and asking favors like they were old pals. He constantly involves Jackie in situations that pull her out of her comfort zone, things that she would normally avoid at all costs... but despite her reservations and much to her surprise, she always ends up enjoying herself. (Example: when Joe signs her up to play a dead woman in a casket race!)
Jackie is on the serious side and isn't afraid to make her many opinions known, but Joe isn't intimidated and banters right back with her on all sorts of amusing and crazy topics. Her anonymous online blog adds a unique twist to things, and helps to show a different and softer side than the all-serious attitude she displays to the world. When Joe becomes a fan of the blog and starts talking to Jackie daily about it, speculating on the "anonymous" blogger's identity and actions, well, I just couldn't help but be amused! Such fun!
Siri Mitchell has a style in her contemporary books that I just love, it never gets old. Honestly, I just had a blast with this book, and I'm sad to have reached the end, but it was great while it lasted. :) I definitely recommend picking up The Cubicle Next Door, and while you're at it, do yourself a favor and check out Siri Mitchell's Kissing Adrien and Moon Over Tokyo as well. They're all keepers!
I loved how Joe came into Jackie's life and sort of acted like they were already in the middle of a friendship; from day one he was dragging her out to lunch and asking favors like they were old pals. He constantly involves Jackie in situations that pull her out of her comfort zone, things that she would normally avoid at all costs... but despite her reservations and much to her surprise, she always ends up enjoying herself. (Example: when Joe signs her up to play a dead woman in a casket race!)
Jackie is on the serious side and isn't afraid to make her many opinions known, but Joe isn't intimidated and banters right back with her on all sorts of amusing and crazy topics. Her anonymous online blog adds a unique twist to things, and helps to show a different and softer side than the all-serious attitude she displays to the world. When Joe becomes a fan of the blog and starts talking to Jackie daily about it, speculating on the "anonymous" blogger's identity and actions, well, I just couldn't help but be amused! Such fun!
Siri Mitchell has a style in her contemporary books that I just love, it never gets old. Honestly, I just had a blast with this book, and I'm sad to have reached the end, but it was great while it lasted. :) I definitely recommend picking up The Cubicle Next Door, and while you're at it, do yourself a favor and check out Siri Mitchell's Kissing Adrien and Moon Over Tokyo as well. They're all keepers!
September 16, 2016
I got lost in this book! It was a fun, light read. However, her environmentalist rants drove me bonkers ! We get it, you like the earth and all. Quit shoving it down our throats. Aside from that, the relationships between her and Joe, and her grandma and her friends was so fun! I laughed out loud (which I rarely do while reading. I snort every once in a while, but rarely actually laugh!) at the hard part when she is getting ready for the dance! Hysterical!!
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January 20, 2015Jackie kind of pissed me off in the sense that she was actually out of her mind about all things organic. If she really felt that way she would have been a vegetarian. I also hated the fact that she kept repeating herself about how her father died in the war and her mother left her. Like I get that it's heartbreaking but she was bringing it up in places that didn't make sense.
So the fact that Joe knew the whole time that she was the writer didn't surprise me, when I found out he was "The Shrink", completely blew my mind. I then had to go back to every time the blog was shown and read all of the shrink's comments again. Reading them again, it becomes totally obvious that he knew. For example, he posts Roses are red, violets are blue, I’min the cubicle next door, right next to you." on February 8th. I first saw the comment "it could be anything. Maybe you make him laugh.Maybe you help him see the world in a different way.Maybe it’s because you’re pretty. Maybe he admires you because you’re fearless. Maybe there’s just something about you that sets his heart on fire." absolutely melted me into a puddle. And then when i realized it was Joe saying how he felt about Jackie melted me even further. One of the more beautiful excerpts I've read.
So the fact that Joe knew the whole time that she was the writer didn't surprise me, when I found out he was "The Shrink", completely blew my mind. I then had to go back to every time the blog was shown and read all of the shrink's comments again. Reading them again, it becomes totally obvious that he knew. For example, he posts Roses are red, violets are blue, I’min the cubicle next door, right next to you." on February 8th. I first saw the comment "it could be anything. Maybe you make him laugh.Maybe you help him see the world in a different way.Maybe it’s because you’re pretty. Maybe he admires you because you’re fearless. Maybe there’s just something about you that sets his heart on fire." absolutely melted me into a puddle. And then when i realized it was Joe saying how he felt about Jackie melted me even further. One of the more beautiful excerpts I've read.
January 29, 2008
This book is about a prickly, cranky heroine who in the process of avoiding love ends up falling in love with her new neighbor at work. She documents her journey on a blog devoted (supposedly) to work and coworkers and all of their foibles.
I've read many, many Christian fiction books, and most of them are just too neat. The women are just too perfect, or too stereotypical, or too annoyingly nice. They always have surface level problems that only a relationship with Christ (combined with that of a handsome man) can solve. This book was incredibly refreshing because the heroine not only had flaws, but she embraced them and felt no cosmic desire to change. Parts of the story were a bit predictable (as is the case in virtually any love story) but still vibrantly told to give it a new feeling. It was a light, quick read that uplifted without preaching at the reader. It painted church life genuinely instead of glossing over any blemishes, which gave me some things to think about.
I've read many, many Christian fiction books, and most of them are just too neat. The women are just too perfect, or too stereotypical, or too annoyingly nice. They always have surface level problems that only a relationship with Christ (combined with that of a handsome man) can solve. This book was incredibly refreshing because the heroine not only had flaws, but she embraced them and felt no cosmic desire to change. Parts of the story were a bit predictable (as is the case in virtually any love story) but still vibrantly told to give it a new feeling. It was a light, quick read that uplifted without preaching at the reader. It painted church life genuinely instead of glossing over any blemishes, which gave me some things to think about.
October 15, 2012
This is one of those random books I grabbed off the shelf at the library because honestly the color purple caught my attention! Then the synopsis on the back intrigued me :-) I know lots of bloggers and am entertained by even more so this was a really fun twist to romance.
Amazon Book Description:
Siri Mitchell’s insightful, funny chick–lit style shines in this story of putting up walls and tearing them down—all for love.
Jackie Harrison, a computer administrator at the Air Force Academy, is a self–proclaimed geek who must share her cubicle space with the new guy, instructor and former pilot Joe Gallagher. She turns to her online journal to vent and eventually to express growing feelings toward this office neighbor who is everything she is not—fun, happy, and social.
But when her blog is featured as a top pick on primetime news, everyone reads it—including Joe. Will he figure out the words of adoration and confusion are written about him? And will Jackie ever risk expressing her heart offline?
Amazon Book Description:
Siri Mitchell’s insightful, funny chick–lit style shines in this story of putting up walls and tearing them down—all for love.
Jackie Harrison, a computer administrator at the Air Force Academy, is a self–proclaimed geek who must share her cubicle space with the new guy, instructor and former pilot Joe Gallagher. She turns to her online journal to vent and eventually to express growing feelings toward this office neighbor who is everything she is not—fun, happy, and social.
But when her blog is featured as a top pick on primetime news, everyone reads it—including Joe. Will he figure out the words of adoration and confusion are written about him? And will Jackie ever risk expressing her heart offline?
May 17, 2016
Jackie has decided to never have a relationship with anyone other than her grandmother. Her mother abandoned her as a baby and Jackie thinks if she just keeps her distance from people, she won't make the same mistakes her mother did.
When Jackie has to share her office with new colleague there's not much she can actually do to get the situation changed, but she doesn't have to like it. Not only is she determined not to be friends with Joe, but she writes about all the annoying things he does on her blog.
When her blog becomes an internet sensation (it seems everyone has an annoying cubicle neighbor) she has to play dumb in case Joe finds out she's the one writing it. And of course all this time, Joe can't seem to get the hint that she wants nothing to do with him. Luckily he sticks around because for all her complaints, Jackie (of course) is starting to really enjoy spending time with Joe. And here's the main problem: can Jackie figure out what she wants and who she really is instead of just being the opposite of who she thinks her mother was?
When Jackie has to share her office with new colleague there's not much she can actually do to get the situation changed, but she doesn't have to like it. Not only is she determined not to be friends with Joe, but she writes about all the annoying things he does on her blog.
When her blog becomes an internet sensation (it seems everyone has an annoying cubicle neighbor) she has to play dumb in case Joe finds out she's the one writing it. And of course all this time, Joe can't seem to get the hint that she wants nothing to do with him. Luckily he sticks around because for all her complaints, Jackie (of course) is starting to really enjoy spending time with Joe. And here's the main problem: can Jackie figure out what she wants and who she really is instead of just being the opposite of who she thinks her mother was?
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