Heart of the Matter by Emily Giffin

Short and sweet: Giffin is a Wahoo (law school). If that's not enough to convince you that her writing is good, then take my word for it. It is. Read her books.

My affinity for Giffin's writing has nothing to do with her status as an alumna (alumnus? whatever) of The University. It doesn't hurt though.

I've read all of her novels. I've liked all of her novels. This one was interesting. It explores one single relationship from the perspective of two people (only one of whom is directly involved) who are affected by its existence -- the wife and the mistress. And get this - you don't hate the mistress. Do you hate the husband? Clearly. I don't know if I could ever find an author talented enough to make me like the cheating husband. But you don't hate the mistress, and I think that's a sign of what a good author Giffin is. Nothing feels contrived. It all feels like something that could really happen to someone you know (although I hope not to any of you...or myself).

It's not funny, it's not lighthearted, but it's not so heavy that you feel like you have to put it down (or in the freezer). It'll make you think.

My Fair Lazy by Jen Lancaster

Short and sweet: if you're looking for funny/sarcastic, this is the book for you.

You've heard of Lancaster before if you've read this blog (or hopefully even if you don't read this blog, but I'd appreciate knowing that you read the blog). Annie I believe was the one who gave me her first book (Bitter is the New Black) as a gift and I've been a fan ever since. I wasn't thrilled with her last book (Pretty in Plaid) mostly because I've come to expect so much from Lancaster - but My Fair Lazy really redeemed her. Keep in mind this is all relative. Lancaster is one of my favorite authors so what I would deem a disappointing effort from her is still better than most other authors.

ANYWAY - My Fair Lazy is about Lancaster's love for all things reality tv related - she watches the shows, talks about them, blogs about them, thinks about them, etc. Eventually she realizes that her addition to reality television may not be doing much to make her cultured. Maybe pop cultured, but not generally cultured. So she sets out on a self-assigned life mission (life steps, as my friend John would say) to step outside her comfort zone and learn more about herself and the world she lives in. The result is funny - and I think sends a really good message. It's always good to step outside your comfort zone, yes, but there's something to be said for examining your comfort zone in the first place and learning what it says about you. Are you ok with it? If you are, you're golden. If you're not, explore a little. And along the way, maybe read one (or more) of Lancaster's books.