I expected this book to be a much lighter and funny read after seeing the praises on the back cover: "darkly hilarious," "wildly entertaining," "engaging," and "captivating." It actually was very dreary and depressing to me. I failed to see the humor in her dealing with a sad home life, having an alcoholic mother, having no close friends, and having nothing to look forward to in life at the age of 27. I did like the author's style of writing as she used Majella's lists as references. A few of the characters who came into the chip shop were entertaining, but certainly not enough to make me laugh. And I definitely did not like the ending. Sorry to say, I honestly cannot recommend this book to anyone.

I thoroughly enjoyed Falling. The main characters were likeable and their situations interesting, while other characters enriched the story through twists and turns and humor. The complex and strained relationships between Emma and her parents and Dominic and his parents were believable. Falling is a love story sweetened by the close relationship between Dominic and his son and Emma's efforts to find out just where she fits into the picture. There also are surprises that I didn't see coming. Falling is a good read.

Fallen Land is a page-turner. The main characters are well developed and the story of life, hardships and danger in the South at the end of the Civil War are depicted vividly. The violence is graphic at times, but it underlines a more realistic view of what life was like at the time. Callum and Ava's story takes many twists and turns and keeps you guessing what could possibly happen next. I love historical fiction and became thoroughly engrossed in Fallen Land. A really good read.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Good Neighbor. The characters were interesting and entertaining. I loved the relationship between Izzy and wise Mrs. Feldman. I wish Mrs. Feldman lived next door to me! She was so supportive and loyal to Izzy, and Izzy was a faithful and helpful friend to Mrs. Feldman.

Poor Izzy had her hands full with her job, her blog, her young son, her disappearing ex-husband, her boss/friend, and her financial troubles. She sure was doing a balancing act! This book was a fun read.

I enjoyed this book -- a bittersweet story. I found the characters to be interesting and very resourceful people -- true survivors. Most of the characters were living a single life with some experiencing loneliness and struggles with their relationships. You get an ongoing glimpse of the characters lives and their issues as Ian the goldfish makes his descent from the 27th floor to the ground while glancing into their apartments. The format reminded me of the film "Rear Window" (minus the murder). I loved the little goldfish decending in the right page margin as you read through the book - clever touch! I recommend this book.