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My Girlfriend's Boyfriend
Jesse is looking for the "right guy." When she bumps into Ethan, a despairing writer who she inspires, she thinks she's found him. But only moments later she meets Troy, a successful advertising executive who makes almost every moment romantic. Both seem perfect, but things aren't always what they seem in this fun romance that blends warm sincerity with fresh storytelling.
217 pages, Paperback
First published August 8, 2011
About the author
Elodia Strain
5 books359 followersI was born in Alaska and grew up in California. I guess that explains why my ideal day would start with playing in the snow and end with playing in the water.
I love jogging on the treadmill, dancing in the living room, and playing Scrabble pretty much anywhere.
I love jogging on the treadmill, dancing in the living room, and playing Scrabble pretty much anywhere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 6, 2011
I’ve been doing some heavy reading lately, so when the opportunity came along to review Elodia Strain’s new book, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend, I jumped at the chance.
This book made me smile from the get-go. We meet Jesse who is looking for the right guy and has a well-meaning boss at the coffee shop where she waitresses trying to help her do it. Jesse’s quirky personality, yet real emotional issues, instantly made me like her. She lives with her brother, loves musicals to the nth degree, and blurts out too much information whenever she gets in trouble. Which gets her into more trouble. Some of the scenes, including her “Yogainting” class made me laugh out loud. And as a generally conservative reader, belly laughing while reading was a new experience. Elodia Strain is a quick and witty writer and I loved her style.
The premise of the story is that Jesse meets two guys at the coffee shop. One is a regular guy, an aspiring writer, and she impulsively gives him her phone number. The other guy is a totally fabulous ad exec who has everything going for him--money, looks and a caring personality. As she dates both of them and really sees the good in each, I found myself totally drawn into the romantic triangle, wondering who she would pick because she really seemed to like both men, albeit for different reasons.
Just to illustrate, one of the funniest scenes in the book is when Jesse's cousin blackmails her for expensive toiletries and “mud” from a luxuriouus spa that the ad exec, Troy, is taking her to on a date. It is also a sweet scene because Troy remembers her quirk of celebrating obscure holidays and plays a board game with her in a romantic tucked away spot at the spa. But then, on the other hand, you have the regular guy, Ethan, who gives her a plant, and takes her to meet his sister and her two kids, and he shows her how normal his life is, while showing us what a sweetheart he is to her. So, she’s sort of stuck between incredible and wonderful, you know? Both are great and I couldn’t wait to find out who she chose and how it would end.
I read this book in one day, and when I got to the end, I was shocked. There was a twist I wasn’t expecting at all, and while it was definitely an original ending, I felt a little cheated. There was closure, but the ending left me a bit confused. Without giving anything away, I just felt like I needed to go back and read it again so I could truly understand the ending.
Anyway, if you are looking for a fun romance with a great heroine, this is the book for you. (It’s also based on the movie, starring Alyssa Milano.) I think Elodia Strain has a fresh, original storytelling style,especially with her hilarious internal dialogue and I enjoyed her sense of humor immensely.
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
This book made me smile from the get-go. We meet Jesse who is looking for the right guy and has a well-meaning boss at the coffee shop where she waitresses trying to help her do it. Jesse’s quirky personality, yet real emotional issues, instantly made me like her. She lives with her brother, loves musicals to the nth degree, and blurts out too much information whenever she gets in trouble. Which gets her into more trouble. Some of the scenes, including her “Yogainting” class made me laugh out loud. And as a generally conservative reader, belly laughing while reading was a new experience. Elodia Strain is a quick and witty writer and I loved her style.
The premise of the story is that Jesse meets two guys at the coffee shop. One is a regular guy, an aspiring writer, and she impulsively gives him her phone number. The other guy is a totally fabulous ad exec who has everything going for him--money, looks and a caring personality. As she dates both of them and really sees the good in each, I found myself totally drawn into the romantic triangle, wondering who she would pick because she really seemed to like both men, albeit for different reasons.
Just to illustrate, one of the funniest scenes in the book is when Jesse's cousin blackmails her for expensive toiletries and “mud” from a luxuriouus spa that the ad exec, Troy, is taking her to on a date. It is also a sweet scene because Troy remembers her quirk of celebrating obscure holidays and plays a board game with her in a romantic tucked away spot at the spa. But then, on the other hand, you have the regular guy, Ethan, who gives her a plant, and takes her to meet his sister and her two kids, and he shows her how normal his life is, while showing us what a sweetheart he is to her. So, she’s sort of stuck between incredible and wonderful, you know? Both are great and I couldn’t wait to find out who she chose and how it would end.
I read this book in one day, and when I got to the end, I was shocked. There was a twist I wasn’t expecting at all, and while it was definitely an original ending, I felt a little cheated. There was closure, but the ending left me a bit confused. Without giving anything away, I just felt like I needed to go back and read it again so I could truly understand the ending.
Anyway, if you are looking for a fun romance with a great heroine, this is the book for you. (It’s also based on the movie, starring Alyssa Milano.) I think Elodia Strain has a fresh, original storytelling style,especially with her hilarious internal dialogue and I enjoyed her sense of humor immensely.
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
August 17, 2011
Review copied from original post at Imaginary Reads
Troy and Ethan. Ethan and Troy. Ethan is the good guy that every girl wants to settle with. He’s charming and kind. When Jesse began dating Troy as well, I couldn’t believe that she’d do this to a guy like Ethan. Then again, Troy… he’s every girl’s dream man. He’s filthy rich, successful, and spontaneous, calling Jesse last minute for a date. I wouldn’t be able to resist him either.
Towards the middle end, I began to feel that pieces weren’t adding up. Considering what was taking place, I’m surprised that it took me so long to realize what was going on. Then again, Elodia did a brilliant job in threading events together. It isn’t until the end when Jesse herself tells you what happened that you learn the major twist in the plot.
Now, Jesse does has a tendency to talk to the audience, and she often rambles, losing herself in thought. While it is a charming quirk of hers, it does tend to overshadow the narrative. It belongs more in the theaters and on the screen than in the pages of a novel. Nevertheless, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend is a light-hearted novel with plenty of humor and laughs, and the novel has the happily-ever-after ending that we love to see in chick flicks. (Plus, there’s the catchy title. You know the heroine’s in for a load of trouble from the title alone.)
My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend is a book that you have to read at least twice. Once for the story as it is, the second time once you know what’s actually up. I recommend this for both teen and adult readers alike. You could even read it with your families. Work together and see if you can figure out the big plot twist before it’s revealed. And then watch the movie.
Troy and Ethan. Ethan and Troy. Ethan is the good guy that every girl wants to settle with. He’s charming and kind. When Jesse began dating Troy as well, I couldn’t believe that she’d do this to a guy like Ethan. Then again, Troy… he’s every girl’s dream man. He’s filthy rich, successful, and spontaneous, calling Jesse last minute for a date. I wouldn’t be able to resist him either.
Towards the middle end, I began to feel that pieces weren’t adding up. Considering what was taking place, I’m surprised that it took me so long to realize what was going on. Then again, Elodia did a brilliant job in threading events together. It isn’t until the end when Jesse herself tells you what happened that you learn the major twist in the plot.
Now, Jesse does has a tendency to talk to the audience, and she often rambles, losing herself in thought. While it is a charming quirk of hers, it does tend to overshadow the narrative. It belongs more in the theaters and on the screen than in the pages of a novel. Nevertheless, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend is a light-hearted novel with plenty of humor and laughs, and the novel has the happily-ever-after ending that we love to see in chick flicks. (Plus, there’s the catchy title. You know the heroine’s in for a load of trouble from the title alone.)
My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend is a book that you have to read at least twice. Once for the story as it is, the second time once you know what’s actually up. I recommend this for both teen and adult readers alike. You could even read it with your families. Work together and see if you can figure out the big plot twist before it’s revealed. And then watch the movie.
July 20, 2016
31/5/14 - Funny book, cute, but I liked the movie more. The heroine was constantly lying in the book which I am aware was for comic effect but it really stood out for me and started to bug me.
23/5/14 - Just watched the movie now I have to read the book! Normally I do not like love-triangles but the twist at the end made me want to watch the whole movie again. Time for the book!
23/5/14 - Just watched the movie now I have to read the book! Normally I do not like love-triangles but the twist at the end made me want to watch the whole movie again. Time for the book!
July 24, 2019
There is more going on in this novel than in the movie. I, therefore, found it to be more interesting. I enjoyed the additional side characters who offered more conflict. The heroine is more of a spaz here than in the movie. She is also quite the chronic liar, but the lies are so outrageous it’s a wonder anyone believes a word she says. It’s a fun, light read with no more depth than the movie.
August 20, 2011
My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend is a rare book indeed: It was made into a movie before the novel was written! Oh yes, it’s a movie-to-book adaptation so when I saw on Netgalley what it was and I read the synopsis, I figured I’d give it a shot. I started the novel and got about halfway through when I decided to watch the movie before I continued with the book (whenever possible, I like to read the book before seeing the movie as usually the book comes first so in My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend’s case, I wanted to see the movie before completing the book). I watched the movie – it was really cute – and it was time to finish the novel!
My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend is one of the cutest books I think I’ve ever read. Honestly, it’s a super-quick, super-cute read that I finished in two days on my Kindle. From the synopsis above, you can see what it’s about: On the day Jesse meets Ethan at the coffee-shop where she works, she also meets Troy. And ends up dating them both. Although that might seem predictable – and be a plot line to millions of other Chick Lit novels, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend has a big, massive, out-of-the-blue twist that really does set it apart from other novels (and movies). Honestly, usually I see book (and movie) twists coming but I was totally surprised at how My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend was resolved. I don’t think you’ll find a more surprising end to a novel, it was hugely satisfying and it definitely got my vote.
Obviously, the book lends heavily from the movie. I’m talking whole quotes and conversations lifted right out, which I liked. It was turned into a book from the movie, so I can see why it happened. I found myself smiling at the words on the page as I remembered them being said in the movie. There are a few differences though – nothing that really affects the plot of the book or the movie, but in the book Jesse works for a family friend whereas she works for a no-name coffee shop in the movie and in the book we’re introduced to Laurel, her best friend and she runs an art class whereas Laurel and the art class aren’t in the movie. In the book Troy’s business partner is a woman, in the movie Troy’s business partner is a man. Small changes, nothing major like I said, but it did make it feel a teensy bit different.
For me, I liked both the book and the movie. The book was more believable it has to be said as it tends to be way over-romantic as apposed to how most books/movies go, but I thought the movie was sweet nevertheless and it makes a change for the romance to go on throughout rather than only happen in the final, dying seconds. Despite preferring the book, I’d still say watch the movie first because it came first. And it stars Chris Gorham (Henry in Ugly Betty, though you knew that, right?). The book is a nice companion to the movie. It compliments the movie and I think Elodia Strain has done a nice job of making it translate well. It made me laugh, it made me swoon and mostly, it made me happy. I like a book that makes me happy. It’s honestly one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read. It’s syrupy sweet and although that’s not to everyone’s taste, I liked it.
My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend is one of the cutest books I think I’ve ever read. Honestly, it’s a super-quick, super-cute read that I finished in two days on my Kindle. From the synopsis above, you can see what it’s about: On the day Jesse meets Ethan at the coffee-shop where she works, she also meets Troy. And ends up dating them both. Although that might seem predictable – and be a plot line to millions of other Chick Lit novels, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend has a big, massive, out-of-the-blue twist that really does set it apart from other novels (and movies). Honestly, usually I see book (and movie) twists coming but I was totally surprised at how My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend was resolved. I don’t think you’ll find a more surprising end to a novel, it was hugely satisfying and it definitely got my vote.
Obviously, the book lends heavily from the movie. I’m talking whole quotes and conversations lifted right out, which I liked. It was turned into a book from the movie, so I can see why it happened. I found myself smiling at the words on the page as I remembered them being said in the movie. There are a few differences though – nothing that really affects the plot of the book or the movie, but in the book Jesse works for a family friend whereas she works for a no-name coffee shop in the movie and in the book we’re introduced to Laurel, her best friend and she runs an art class whereas Laurel and the art class aren’t in the movie. In the book Troy’s business partner is a woman, in the movie Troy’s business partner is a man. Small changes, nothing major like I said, but it did make it feel a teensy bit different.
For me, I liked both the book and the movie. The book was more believable it has to be said as it tends to be way over-romantic as apposed to how most books/movies go, but I thought the movie was sweet nevertheless and it makes a change for the romance to go on throughout rather than only happen in the final, dying seconds. Despite preferring the book, I’d still say watch the movie first because it came first. And it stars Chris Gorham (Henry in Ugly Betty, though you knew that, right?). The book is a nice companion to the movie. It compliments the movie and I think Elodia Strain has done a nice job of making it translate well. It made me laugh, it made me swoon and mostly, it made me happy. I like a book that makes me happy. It’s honestly one of the sweetest books I’ve ever read. It’s syrupy sweet and although that’s not to everyone’s taste, I liked it.
August 11, 2011
Full review and trailer at http://fireandicephoto.blogspot.com/2...
If you've never read a book by Elodia Strain today is the day to go out and buy one. She is by far my favorite writer in the romantic comedy genre. I wasn't quite sure what to expect from My Girlfriend's Boyfriend because it was written based off of a movie that was released a year ago that I've never seen or heard of. But I picked it up knowing that I love Elodia's sassy, hilarious writing. And then when curiosity got the best of me after I finished the book I had to rent the movie to compare notes.
I adore the changes Elodia made and the new characters she added to the written version. She made the story enough her own with a hilarious protagonist Jesse who tends to find herself in awkward situations. Recovering from a divorce, Jesse is not quite ready to throw herself back out there in the game of love-but with a little extra push from her coffee shop co-workers and her uncle she decides to take a few risks. Then within 24 hours, not one, but two eligible and swoon worthy men walk into her work and begin to vie for her attention.
Ethan, the starving writer and Troy the rich successful executive couldn't be more different. Funny thing is that in the book I found myself rooting for one and in the movie the other...each have qualities that will attract both Jesse and readers. You'll laugh out loud and be very surprised at the big twist in the end. I actually had to read the last chapter through twice just to make sure I'd read it right! I would highly recommend My Girlfriend's Boyfriend as a squeaky clean and hilarious romance for all readers. It addresses honesty, trust, taking a chance on love and following your dreams. Well done once again Elodia!
If you've never read a book by Elodia Strain today is the day to go out and buy one. She is by far my favorite writer in the romantic comedy genre. I wasn't quite sure what to expect from My Girlfriend's Boyfriend because it was written based off of a movie that was released a year ago that I've never seen or heard of. But I picked it up knowing that I love Elodia's sassy, hilarious writing. And then when curiosity got the best of me after I finished the book I had to rent the movie to compare notes.
I adore the changes Elodia made and the new characters she added to the written version. She made the story enough her own with a hilarious protagonist Jesse who tends to find herself in awkward situations. Recovering from a divorce, Jesse is not quite ready to throw herself back out there in the game of love-but with a little extra push from her coffee shop co-workers and her uncle she decides to take a few risks. Then within 24 hours, not one, but two eligible and swoon worthy men walk into her work and begin to vie for her attention.
Ethan, the starving writer and Troy the rich successful executive couldn't be more different. Funny thing is that in the book I found myself rooting for one and in the movie the other...each have qualities that will attract both Jesse and readers. You'll laugh out loud and be very surprised at the big twist in the end. I actually had to read the last chapter through twice just to make sure I'd read it right! I would highly recommend My Girlfriend's Boyfriend as a squeaky clean and hilarious romance for all readers. It addresses honesty, trust, taking a chance on love and following your dreams. Well done once again Elodia!
August 1, 2011
I am guilty of judging a book by it's cover, and the fact that the words "From the Major Motion Picture" are BELOW the title? I'm not big on movie covers for books; and then the idea of the book being written AFTER the movie? I was nervous.
And I was wrong.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! I read it in one sitting, and then decided to hunt out the movie (of which I plan on watching as soon as I finish writing this review! )
From the start, Jesse and her sense of humor and sarcasm had my laughing, including an instance where she asked for reader participation - to fill in the blank! Her character was very realistic and endearing. (And as a Beatles loving, hemp purse carrying, sandal wearing 20-something, I could relate to her easily! My only wish is to have two Mr. Rights chasing after me!)
I loved the interaction between Jesse and her family - particularly her cousin Lauren! (She was the sister/cousin that I always wanted growing up!)
This book was light hearted and wonderful, with laughs in the right places and a cast of characters that you can't help but love!
And I was wrong.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! I read it in one sitting, and then decided to hunt out the movie (of which I plan on watching as soon as I finish writing this review! )
From the start, Jesse and her sense of humor and sarcasm had my laughing, including an instance where she asked for reader participation - to fill in the blank! Her character was very realistic and endearing. (And as a Beatles loving, hemp purse carrying, sandal wearing 20-something, I could relate to her easily! My only wish is to have two Mr. Rights chasing after me!)
I loved the interaction between Jesse and her family - particularly her cousin Lauren! (She was the sister/cousin that I always wanted growing up!)
This book was light hearted and wonderful, with laughs in the right places and a cast of characters that you can't help but love!
April 28, 2015
I bought this movie, but then when I saw that a book was about to be released as well I decided to wait to watch the movie until after I had read the book. I read the book on my plane ride home from my sister's wedding and I loved it! I was smiling and laughing the whole way through the book. I liked Jesse's quirky habits especially celebrating a holiday every day even if it is only National Potato Chip day. I enjoyed both Ethan and Troy, but I think I enjoyed Ethan more because she was able to be herself with him. I wasn't expecting the twist at the end, but I enjoyed it. Read this book if you want a good romance story that will make you laugh.
August 2, 2019
8/2/19 - So I remembered that I had read this book, but didn't remember how it ended. So cute again. Loved the characters and the story. Recommending it to my 16 yr old.
5/16/14
Such a cute book! I loved the characters. It made me laugh out loud quite a few times. I can't wait to watch the movie now. The ending was a tad confusing to me thus the 4 instead of 5 stars. But other than that super good.
Moral Note: Clean, no language, clean romance.
5/16/14
Such a cute book! I loved the characters. It made me laugh out loud quite a few times. I can't wait to watch the movie now. The ending was a tad confusing to me thus the 4 instead of 5 stars. But other than that super good.
Moral Note: Clean, no language, clean romance.
October 5, 2011
I saw the movie movie version of this book first--since it came out before the book--and thought it was a charming, original story. I thought the book was even more so. Elodia Strain's writing is so witty and quick, her characters are quirky but still very believable. I laughed so much while reading the book. And, even though I had seen the movie and knew the premise, Ms. Strain had added many new characters and situations that it almost seemed like I was experiencing the story for the first time. I really loved this book and I'm glad to own my own copy so I can read it again!
October 29, 2011
Jesse has had her heart broken. Ethan has had his dreams dashed. They meet in the coffee shop where Jesse works and instantly like each other. But then, Jesse meets her dream man. How will she choose?
I loved Ethan. He's funny, kind, thoughtful, ambitious. Jesse was fun and sarcastic. The ending completely threw me--totally unexpected! It was great!
I had no idea there was a movie made of this. I'm going to need to track that down.
I loved Ethan. He's funny, kind, thoughtful, ambitious. Jesse was fun and sarcastic. The ending completely threw me--totally unexpected! It was great!
I had no idea there was a movie made of this. I'm going to need to track that down.
September 18, 2017
In the book My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend by Elodia Strain, Jesse wants to find love after her divorce with her husband Nate. She ends up finding two nice guys, Ethan and Troy. She dates both of them and one day runs into her ex husband, Nate. She finds out that she still has feeling for him, but won't go out with him. She gets an art job in Austin Texas, and decides to take it. Troy is also going to Texas. But Jesse never ends up going to Texas. SHe instead stays home to deal with her life.
The book was good, just not really my type all that much. There was a lot of romance in it. “We were walking hand in hand towards the exit gates.” (My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend, 74.) But that was good for the people that like a lot of romance in a book. I didn’t like how the characters were older than me. I like it books better when the characters are about my age. It makes it easier to understand what the characters are doing. But when they are older than me, it makes me have to concentrate more.
In the book, Jesse likes more than one boy. In my life, I like more than one boy. Jesse has a boyfriend. In Michael Vey, by Richard Paul Evans, Taylor Ridley has a boyfriend. Jesse has to decide between boys. We live in a world when multiple people like the same people. So many people have to pick between people.
The book was good, just not really my type all that much. There was a lot of romance in it. “We were walking hand in hand towards the exit gates.” (My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend, 74.) But that was good for the people that like a lot of romance in a book. I didn’t like how the characters were older than me. I like it books better when the characters are about my age. It makes it easier to understand what the characters are doing. But when they are older than me, it makes me have to concentrate more.
In the book, Jesse likes more than one boy. In my life, I like more than one boy. Jesse has a boyfriend. In Michael Vey, by Richard Paul Evans, Taylor Ridley has a boyfriend. Jesse has to decide between boys. We live in a world when multiple people like the same people. So many people have to pick between people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2011
I don't know how to write my review without spoiling but I'll try to do my best.
The fact is that I immediately had a good feeling and enjoyed the book from the beginning. The storyline was simple but efficient. Jesse and her close relations are a little peculiar, not to say crazy, but I like that. It was easy to relate to them, they made me laugh and I felt comfortable with them. It was funny and well written (cf: the various interpretations of Vivian's speech, the delirious tests).
I appreciated (and preferred) Ethan on the spot thanks to his kindness and simplicity as opposed to Troy's sophistication and the lavishness of their dates. For once, I was tempted to go directly to the end to know which one she would chose, and was very glad I resisted the temptation.
Before reaching the end, I though it was a 3/3.5 stars story, but finally went for a 5+. I had my share of suspicions at times, thought they were strange coincidences or gaps, but they didn't bother me that much because I was to deep into the action and focused on the dates.
I wasn't prepared for the final twist, and was rather speechless.
I took a huge slap in the face, and you can be sure that My Girlfriend's Boyfriend leaves a large imprint on my mind. A pure master piece of art! Well done Elodia!
After turning the last page I just felt like reading it once more under a new light, and I'm really eager to discover the promising movie with both hot Alissa Milano and Christopher Gorham (yummy!).
The fact is that I immediately had a good feeling and enjoyed the book from the beginning. The storyline was simple but efficient. Jesse and her close relations are a little peculiar, not to say crazy, but I like that. It was easy to relate to them, they made me laugh and I felt comfortable with them. It was funny and well written (cf: the various interpretations of Vivian's speech, the delirious tests).
I appreciated (and preferred) Ethan on the spot thanks to his kindness and simplicity as opposed to Troy's sophistication and the lavishness of their dates. For once, I was tempted to go directly to the end to know which one she would chose, and was very glad I resisted the temptation.
Before reaching the end, I though it was a 3/3.5 stars story, but finally went for a 5+. I had my share of suspicions at times, thought they were strange coincidences or gaps, but they didn't bother me that much because I was to deep into the action and focused on the dates.
I wasn't prepared for the final twist, and was rather speechless.
I took a huge slap in the face, and you can be sure that My Girlfriend's Boyfriend leaves a large imprint on my mind. A pure master piece of art! Well done Elodia!
After turning the last page I just felt like reading it once more under a new light, and I'm really eager to discover the promising movie with both hot Alissa Milano and Christopher Gorham (yummy!).
September 29, 2011
Jesse has been unlucky in love, so imagine her surprise when she meets two dream guys in the same day. One is a sweet and sensitive writer. The other is a smart and successful businessman. Now Jesse has to pick which one is for her, but that's proving to be much more difficult than she thought it would be. Can Jesse decide between what her heart and her head want?
I was so in love with this book. Jesse was smart and funny. She was a little kooky, but not so crazy you didn't like her. Her boss was hilarious. Her family was insane (in a good way). I found Troy to be nice, but a little bland perhaps. Ethan was dreamy and everything you look for in an imaginary dream guy. There were interesting plot pieces, especially the parts where Jesse was dealing with her ex-husband. I sped through this book because I was enjoying it so much.
Then I got to the end, and suddenly I was so confused. I had to go back and read a couple times to really figure things out. It wasn't a horrible ending by any means, I just found it to sort of stop the story dead in it's tracks. Once I figured out what was going on, I enjoyed the ending too. I just felt like some of the momentum had been lost for me. Overall though, I still loved this book and enjoyed it greatly. It's a fun, breezy read for when you just want to feel good.
Galley provided for review.
I was so in love with this book. Jesse was smart and funny. She was a little kooky, but not so crazy you didn't like her. Her boss was hilarious. Her family was insane (in a good way). I found Troy to be nice, but a little bland perhaps. Ethan was dreamy and everything you look for in an imaginary dream guy. There were interesting plot pieces, especially the parts where Jesse was dealing with her ex-husband. I sped through this book because I was enjoying it so much.
Then I got to the end, and suddenly I was so confused. I had to go back and read a couple times to really figure things out. It wasn't a horrible ending by any means, I just found it to sort of stop the story dead in it's tracks. Once I figured out what was going on, I enjoyed the ending too. I just felt like some of the momentum had been lost for me. Overall though, I still loved this book and enjoyed it greatly. It's a fun, breezy read for when you just want to feel good.
Galley provided for review.
December 6, 2013
I had never heard of this book or the movie until yesterday when a friend recommended this book. This was a clean romance. I liked the characters (well, I was a bit put off by Jesse's ability to date two guys with equal intensity and attraction).
However, for some reason, I did not like the twist at the end of the book. It was just awkward. Maybe some would think it was clever. I didn't.
Also, the entire book read like a movie rather than a novel. Don't ask me what I mean by that because I don't know. I kept imagining it being played out on the screen rather than my being able to fall into the book and become absorbed in it. Maybe that had to do with the fact (at least my understanding) that the book was written from the movie rather than the other way around.
I really liked the book (4 stars) until the twist. After that, I struggled with what I thought, retrospectively, about the whole book. I cannot decide whether I would recommend the book (4 stars) or not (3 stars). I cannot decide if I would even want to see the movie (probably not, at this point). Maybe this is a 3.5-star book for me, rounded down to 3 rather than up to 4--rounding down because of my ambivalence in the rating and my lingering feeling of disappointment or let down.
However, for some reason, I did not like the twist at the end of the book. It was just awkward. Maybe some would think it was clever. I didn't.
Also, the entire book read like a movie rather than a novel. Don't ask me what I mean by that because I don't know. I kept imagining it being played out on the screen rather than my being able to fall into the book and become absorbed in it. Maybe that had to do with the fact (at least my understanding) that the book was written from the movie rather than the other way around.
I really liked the book (4 stars) until the twist. After that, I struggled with what I thought, retrospectively, about the whole book. I cannot decide whether I would recommend the book (4 stars) or not (3 stars). I cannot decide if I would even want to see the movie (probably not, at this point). Maybe this is a 3.5-star book for me, rounded down to 3 rather than up to 4--rounding down because of my ambivalence in the rating and my lingering feeling of disappointment or let down.
September 28, 2011
Reviewed at: Over A Cuppa Tea
Review date:29 September 2011
Review link: http://cleffairy.com/?p=6162
I don’t usually read chic-lit. They are not very appealing to me and they put me to sleep, but ‘My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend’ is an okay read, I suppose. It tells the tale of a young woman who then accidentally gets involved with two guys and had to make a choice between the two.
While the story is not as complicated as some chic-lit that I’ve read, it is still rather predictable.
I suppose I can say that I enjoyed reading this even though I am not exactly a huge fan of these soft of stories.
I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars, and I received an ARC of this book from Cedar Fort Publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review for this book. I was not compensated in any ways for reviewing this.
Review date:29 September 2011
Review link: http://cleffairy.com/?p=6162
I don’t usually read chic-lit. They are not very appealing to me and they put me to sleep, but ‘My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend’ is an okay read, I suppose. It tells the tale of a young woman who then accidentally gets involved with two guys and had to make a choice between the two.
While the story is not as complicated as some chic-lit that I’ve read, it is still rather predictable.
I suppose I can say that I enjoyed reading this even though I am not exactly a huge fan of these soft of stories.
I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars, and I received an ARC of this book from Cedar Fort Publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review for this book. I was not compensated in any ways for reviewing this.
November 1, 2011
good story, but wasn't the can't put it down type of book. The ending was unexpected as you were expecting that Jesse, the single waitress/ artist was going to have to choice between the rich, advertising partner or the struggling writer boyfriend. Really, it was the struggling writer's story that was the story line except for the fact that Jesse was only dating one guy the struggling writter and fighting against the fact that she could have a lasting relationship with him because she was unwilling to tell him her secret...she couldn't have children. He proves that he is a better man than her ex-husband who left when she wasn't able to have children. Ethan said what she needed to hear...she was all he needed and there were many ways to have children..adopt, kidnap his niece and nephews, adopt a pet... They got married and he sells his first book...their dating experience with him as troy, except he gets the girl.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2011
What a fun, laugh out loud story! I love the way Elodia can take an uncomfortable situation and leave me in stitches. The way she writes her characters is just hysterical. I was asked to leave the room when I kept interrupting the family's TV time by cracking up:) Jesse is a quirky, fun gal who just wants to find the right guy and live happily ever after. Enter two hunks. Ethan, the struggling writer with a heart of gold. Comfy. Safe. Warm. Enter polar opposite Troy. Drop dead gorgeous. Anticipates Jesse's wishes and needs. Exciting. Spontaneous. What's a girl to do? A love triangle that drove me crazy!! How will she ever choose? Who will be left broken hearted? Only Ms. Strain can write her way out of this one. I had to reread the last chapter to see if I blinked and missed something. Fantastic feel good story about never giving up on your dreams:)
January 11, 2012
Story felt disconnected to me. I couldn't understand the main character, Jesse, her feelings about her current situation or which "secret" she needed to share was unrelate-able . As far as I could tell she didn't mention anything to Ethan about dating Troy(although I think he caught on when she left him on the mountain side) or that she was married once before. So I was rather surprised that what was revealed at the end, because I felt no tie to the main character or saw any conscience thoughts about what she was doing with each guy. Again it felt like a disconnected story and for saying in the story that Ethan had a lack of passion in his writing, I found that this novel was not as passionate or as good as it could have been.
July 16, 2012
I loved this book. Jesse has been unlucky in love so she is surprised when Ethan walks into her life and Troy. Ethan makes her smile and feel comfortable but there's something she can't tell him. She has a secret that she thinks will make him look at her differently!
Ethan is a writer and Jesse inspires him to start a new project. Troy is a perfect guy. The kind of guy that every girl wishes would notice her, while Ethan is the boy next door. What will happen.
This was a really sweet clean romance! I never would have guessed how it would end. I won't give it away but there is a twist that I wasn't expecting. All in all this was a wonderful fun read!
Ethan is a writer and Jesse inspires him to start a new project. Troy is a perfect guy. The kind of guy that every girl wishes would notice her, while Ethan is the boy next door. What will happen.
This was a really sweet clean romance! I never would have guessed how it would end. I won't give it away but there is a twist that I wasn't expecting. All in all this was a wonderful fun read!
September 25, 2016
I saw this movie years ago and loved it. While not often the case, the book is just as good as the movie was. The story is compelling and hilarious because of the heroine's quirky sense of humor. It makes you think and makes you laugh. I loved everything about it and would highly recommend the book to anyone as it has no objectionable content. There is literally nothing that is offensive - not in the least. It's just a sweet love story that shows true love happens by having a best friend in the man you love. He has to be a man you can trust. And I won't post a spoiler, but it made me get a bit tearful near the end, just like the movie did. Loved it!
March 8, 2012
Jesse, a barista, meets two dream guys in the same day, one about five minutes after the other. Ethan is quiet and sensitive; Troy is rich, adventurous, and plans romantic dates. And Jesse must choose.
I loved Elodia Strain's first two books but didn't care for this one. I missed the fun characters and situations in the first books and wondered what happened with this one. But it turns out that this is a novel adaptation of a movie script that somebody else wrote, which explains everything. Elodia did what she could, but the lame plot wasn't her fault.
I loved Elodia Strain's first two books but didn't care for this one. I missed the fun characters and situations in the first books and wondered what happened with this one. But it turns out that this is a novel adaptation of a movie script that somebody else wrote, which explains everything. Elodia did what she could, but the lame plot wasn't her fault.
August 22, 2011
It was okay. Cedar Fort Publishing (who published this book) is doing a release launch and Project Read will benefit from the proceeds, so I thought I better read it first. Watched the movie--cute, fun, mostly clean (some innuendo, that's all). Started the book, thought, "Ugh," but it got better. Added a couple characters to keep it interesting. The typos drove me crazy (and no, they were not intentional). I read it in a night, so it's a short, easy read. I know it's about a 30-something woman, but the writing seems more geared to a teen audience.
January 14, 2012
I love her writing. So my taste. I laughed out loud so many times. Kevin found the trailer to the movie because he wanted to see what was so funny and if we should watch the movie, but I made him turn it off after a few seconds because I could tell the book was WAY better and the movie couldn't do justice to the hilarious parts of the book. The book was delightfully fun with a fun twist at the end.
December 16, 2021
Oh I loved this one! Elodia Strain is one clever, funny writer! I love how fun her books always are. I don't think I have laughed out loud so much with any other writer. Anyway, this a quick, funny and so-cute read. The twist at the end bumped this one up for me from just a cute romantic comedy to one I really enjoyed. After finishing the book, I'm not surprised it was made into movie. Now I'm going to go find it and watch it.
February 16, 2012
Elodia delivers again! This book was just plain fun to read, the perfect indulgence for a lazy afternoon. The writing was fresh and I laughed out loud several times. And the ending was simply excellent -- I truly did not see it coming and just loved the pleasant surprise from a genuinely clever twist. This is one quick and easy read that's certainly worth reading.
February 22, 2012
Very quick, funny, happy-inside read. I do like that about Eloida's books.
The ending though- not sure about. It was kind of confusing and I had to reread a few paragraphs to try and make sense of it. Not sure if it is the same as the movie or not.
Fun to reread , but not one I can see myself rereading (my basis for three stars).
The ending though- not sure about. It was kind of confusing and I had to reread a few paragraphs to try and make sense of it. Not sure if it is the same as the movie or not.
Fun to reread , but not one I can see myself rereading (my basis for three stars).
Read
October 29, 2011I can't rate this book because I couldn't read beyond page 50. I guess that tells you a little about what I think. I watched the movie first and then realized, after getting the book, that it was written after the movie. I think that was the problem. The book seemed trite and simple, even though I knew there was a very unique twist coming. The writing was not interesting enough to hold me.
December 30, 2011
I laughed and laughed and laughed. Jesse is so funny and likable. Really fun book, but don't start it at 9:00 p.m. because you'll want to finish it and be up until midnight, unless you have more self-control than I do. Worth the lack of sleep.
The ending was confusing and I had to think about it for it to make sense, I think!
The ending was confusing and I had to think about it for it to make sense, I think!
November 18, 2011
This was a weird book. It started out like a normal romantic/comedy I was kind of enyoing it but then it had it's little weird twist and resolved so fast I didn't really understand what was going on. I felt very confused by the end and like i'd kind of wasted my time. It probably worked better as a movie.
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