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Flash And Dazzle
What happens when everything you thought was true changes all at once? What happens when each relationship that means anything to you suddenly becomes far more real than you ever thought it would be? What happens when every moment becomes invaluable as all of them pass far too quickly?
Flash and Dazzle is the story of two friends who have known the best of times who develop a true taste for life during the worst of times. It is the story of the friends and lovers who enter their orbit, some for a long time and some only for a moment. It is the story of legacies, burdens, and the kinds of secrets that are only revealed when there’s nothing left to tell.
It is a funny, moving, deeply honest novel that will inspire you to call everyone you care about and thank everyone you know for what they’ve given you.
Flash and Dazzle is the story of two friends who have known the best of times who develop a true taste for life during the worst of times. It is the story of the friends and lovers who enter their orbit, some for a long time and some only for a moment. It is the story of legacies, burdens, and the kinds of secrets that are only revealed when there’s nothing left to tell.
It is a funny, moving, deeply honest novel that will inspire you to call everyone you care about and thank everyone you know for what they’ve given you.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2013
3 people are currently reading
435 people want to read
About the author
Lou Aronica
54 books91 followersI have been associated with the book publishing world since August 1979, when I started as an assistant in the Managing Editor’s Department at Bantam Books. Prior to founding The Fiction Studio, I served as Deputy Publisher of Bantam and Publisher of Berkley Books and Avon Books. During this time, I launched the premier science fiction and mystery imprints in the business, and also presided over the largest growth period to date in the history of the #1 single-title romance program.
My earliest publishing experiences were in the field of science fiction and fantasy. I started my first publishing imprint, Bantam Spectra, at the age of 27 and published my first New York Times bestseller with that imprint a year later. My first editorial acquisition, David Brin’s Startide Rising, won the field’s two highest awards, the Hugo and the Nebula. I subsequently published New York Times bestsellers with Arthur C. Clarke, Isaac Asimov, David Brin, Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman, Raymond Feist, William Gibson, Neal Stephenson, Neil Gaiman, and others, while also acquiring five consecutive winners of the Nebula Award. In addition, I created the “Full Spectrum” anthology series, which won me a World Fantasy Award in 1994.
My biggest commercial accomplishment in the field of science fiction and fantasy was my acquisition and design of the Star Wars book publishing program. Started at a time when licensing interest in the movies was very low, the book publications consistently hit the New York Times list (as high as #1) while also jump-starting the entire Star Wars franchise.
In the nineties, I moved beyond science fiction. As Mass Market Publisher for Bantam, I launched the Bantam Crime Line mystery imprint and was closely involved in the development of several bestselling authors, including Elizabeth George, Robert Crais, and Diane Mott Davidson. I launched the Bantam Fanfare romance imprint, which led to the development of bestselling authors such as Amanda Quick, Tami Hoag, and Iris Johansen.
In 1994, I left Bantam to become SVP and Publisher of the Berkley Publishing Group. The two imprints I started there, Boulevard (a media imprint) and Signature (a literary imprint) had New York Times bestsellers within their first year. I also acquired and edited the bestselling futuristic mysteries by J.D. Robb (Nora Roberts).
In 1995, I moved to Avon Books to spearhead a turnaround of that company as SVP and Publisher. I supervised significant changes to the company’s industry-leading romance program, which led to the largest growth period in the program’s history to that point. Committing the company to a profitable path of publishing for dedicated readers, I launched a series of imprints focused on science fiction, literary fiction, mystery, pop culture, health, history, and teen literature. Most of these imprints had bestsellers very quickly.
In 1999, I left Avon after the acquisition of the company by The News Corporation. The creative investment I made in that house continues to pay significant dividends, however, as writers whose publishing programs I developed became breakout bestsellers, including Dennis Lehane, Susan Elizabeth Phillips, J.A. Jance, Stephanie Laurens, Lisa Kleypas, Bruce Feiler and Peter Robinson.
In addition to my current role with The Fiction Studio, I am a novelist and nonfiction writer. My novels, The Forever Year and Flash and Dazzle appeared under the name Ronald Anthony. My nonfiction books include the New York Times bestseller The Element (written with Sir Ken Robinson), the national bestseller The Culture Code (written with Dr. Clotaire Rapaille), Conscientious Equity (written with Neal Asbury), Miraculous Health (written with Dr. Rick Levy) and A Million Thanks (written with Shauna Fleming).
Finding myself missing the publishing side of the business, in 2008, literary manager Peter Miller and I started a small book imprint called The Story Plant. Right now, it’s a tiny opera
My earliest publishing experiences were in the field of science fiction and fantasy. I started my first publishing imprint, Bantam Spectra, at the age of 27 and published my first New York Times bestseller with that imprint a year later. My first editorial acquisition, David Brin’s Startide Rising, won the field’s two highest awards, the Hugo and the Nebula. I subsequently published New York Times bestsellers with Arthur C. Clarke, Isaac Asimov, David Brin, Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman, Raymond Feist, William Gibson, Neal Stephenson, Neil Gaiman, and others, while also acquiring five consecutive winners of the Nebula Award. In addition, I created the “Full Spectrum” anthology series, which won me a World Fantasy Award in 1994.
My biggest commercial accomplishment in the field of science fiction and fantasy was my acquisition and design of the Star Wars book publishing program. Started at a time when licensing interest in the movies was very low, the book publications consistently hit the New York Times list (as high as #1) while also jump-starting the entire Star Wars franchise.
In the nineties, I moved beyond science fiction. As Mass Market Publisher for Bantam, I launched the Bantam Crime Line mystery imprint and was closely involved in the development of several bestselling authors, including Elizabeth George, Robert Crais, and Diane Mott Davidson. I launched the Bantam Fanfare romance imprint, which led to the development of bestselling authors such as Amanda Quick, Tami Hoag, and Iris Johansen.
In 1994, I left Bantam to become SVP and Publisher of the Berkley Publishing Group. The two imprints I started there, Boulevard (a media imprint) and Signature (a literary imprint) had New York Times bestsellers within their first year. I also acquired and edited the bestselling futuristic mysteries by J.D. Robb (Nora Roberts).
In 1995, I moved to Avon Books to spearhead a turnaround of that company as SVP and Publisher. I supervised significant changes to the company’s industry-leading romance program, which led to the largest growth period in the program’s history to that point. Committing the company to a profitable path of publishing for dedicated readers, I launched a series of imprints focused on science fiction, literary fiction, mystery, pop culture, health, history, and teen literature. Most of these imprints had bestsellers very quickly.
In 1999, I left Avon after the acquisition of the company by The News Corporation. The creative investment I made in that house continues to pay significant dividends, however, as writers whose publishing programs I developed became breakout bestsellers, including Dennis Lehane, Susan Elizabeth Phillips, J.A. Jance, Stephanie Laurens, Lisa Kleypas, Bruce Feiler and Peter Robinson.
In addition to my current role with The Fiction Studio, I am a novelist and nonfiction writer. My novels, The Forever Year and Flash and Dazzle appeared under the name Ronald Anthony. My nonfiction books include the New York Times bestseller The Element (written with Sir Ken Robinson), the national bestseller The Culture Code (written with Dr. Clotaire Rapaille), Conscientious Equity (written with Neal Asbury), Miraculous Health (written with Dr. Rick Levy) and A Million Thanks (written with Shauna Fleming).
Finding myself missing the publishing side of the business, in 2008, literary manager Peter Miller and I started a small book imprint called The Story Plant. Right now, it’s a tiny opera
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 15, 2017
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for a review.
Based on the cover and the summary of this book, I expected another generic romance book where two people meet, fall in love, fight and then make up and live happily ever after. Instead, I was surprised to read about two guys in their late twenties who met in college and have been inseparable ever since. Oh yeah and they are straight. What follows is the story of their friendship from day one until present day.
To me, this book was incredibly powerful. Think about the relationships in your life. Think about the ones you find the most meaningful. You think you know everything there is to know about someone and then you find out that there was so much more you never knew and it changes everything. Also, I think we are used to books about female friendships but this time it is about two guys. People would call it a bromance but I think it's so much more than that.
This book really drove home the idea that a) you never really know everything there is to know about someone, b) people can surprise you day after day in ways you didn't even expect and c) relationships are scary, wonderful, horrible and amazing all at the same time.
I hope that other people read this book and love it as much as I did.
Based on the cover and the summary of this book, I expected another generic romance book where two people meet, fall in love, fight and then make up and live happily ever after. Instead, I was surprised to read about two guys in their late twenties who met in college and have been inseparable ever since. Oh yeah and they are straight. What follows is the story of their friendship from day one until present day.
To me, this book was incredibly powerful. Think about the relationships in your life. Think about the ones you find the most meaningful. You think you know everything there is to know about someone and then you find out that there was so much more you never knew and it changes everything. Also, I think we are used to books about female friendships but this time it is about two guys. People would call it a bromance but I think it's so much more than that.
This book really drove home the idea that a) you never really know everything there is to know about someone, b) people can surprise you day after day in ways you didn't even expect and c) relationships are scary, wonderful, horrible and amazing all at the same time.
I hope that other people read this book and love it as much as I did.
July 22, 2016
My thanks to NetGalley and The Story Plant for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
DNF at 65%. It wasn't a bad book, it was well written and engaging. I liked the characters, the plot made sense, but I just couldn't connect with the characters and their issues.
The narrator is a 20-something white male living the wealthy life of a single ad exec in NYC. Yes, he is dealing with the terminal illness of his best friend, also a single wealthy young white man living the good life in NYC, but I just couldn't really connect.
Until the cancer came into the picture, it was all #richpeopleproblems, which just doesn't do it for me.
It's a friendship story and a story about growing up and into who you are going to be. It's good, but I just couldn't anymore with this book. I have read the author before and I do like his work, but this one just didn't speak to me.
Purely a case of "it's me, not the book". Three stars because it was well written and interesting for what I read of it. I just didn't really want to read more.
DNF at 65%. It wasn't a bad book, it was well written and engaging. I liked the characters, the plot made sense, but I just couldn't connect with the characters and their issues.
The narrator is a 20-something white male living the wealthy life of a single ad exec in NYC. Yes, he is dealing with the terminal illness of his best friend, also a single wealthy young white man living the good life in NYC, but I just couldn't really connect.
Until the cancer came into the picture, it was all #richpeopleproblems, which just doesn't do it for me.
It's a friendship story and a story about growing up and into who you are going to be. It's good, but I just couldn't anymore with this book. I have read the author before and I do like his work, but this one just didn't speak to me.
Purely a case of "it's me, not the book". Three stars because it was well written and interesting for what I read of it. I just didn't really want to read more.
December 5, 2013
I'm not hating on the topic. I just can't honestly say that I liked his book, as the 3-star rating would indicate.
Rich and Daz are the cool kids of New York, who have money, fun careers, and lots of expensive toys. And each other. Everything is great until Daz discovers he has cancer and Rich is eaten up with guilt over a potential career leap. This sounds great, but we don't even find out about the cancer until half-way through the book. Everything leading up to it is how much fun they're having, which would be fine for a shorter time. I feel like half the book was wasted on it. The really important parts didn't start until I was maybe 80% into the book! (taking into account the fact that it ends at 86% in the kindle version) The stuff about Daz's sister, Linda, and Rich's relationship with her is barely grazed. I wanted to know how it played out after they got together. It was immature to end a book at the beginning of a relationship. But then again I had issues with almost every single thing about the ending.
- I couldn't care less about Michelle's departure for Indiana. Was that supposed to be symbolic? Like, maybe she is Daz's parallel because they had "an eye thing"? And they both left Rich's life for good? Which would be kinda dumb.
- Linda and Rich getting together in spite of her beloved brother's death. Will they stay in NY or move to Kansas? How's that going to work out?
- Why the freaking hell did Rich turn down that job? Now that Daz is out of the picture, it should be even easier to make that choice. Why did he make the exact wrong one? He should have moved on from everything. Now that would be a better ending.
So, yeah. A good potential in the story, but the pacing and the things that Lou Aronica decided to focus on where out of whack.
P.S. weirdly misleading cover fail
Rich and Daz are the cool kids of New York, who have money, fun careers, and lots of expensive toys. And each other. Everything is great until Daz discovers he has cancer and Rich is eaten up with guilt over a potential career leap. This sounds great, but we don't even find out about the cancer until half-way through the book. Everything leading up to it is how much fun they're having, which would be fine for a shorter time. I feel like half the book was wasted on it. The really important parts didn't start until I was maybe 80% into the book! (taking into account the fact that it ends at 86% in the kindle version) The stuff about Daz's sister, Linda, and Rich's relationship with her is barely grazed. I wanted to know how it played out after they got together. It was immature to end a book at the beginning of a relationship. But then again I had issues with almost every single thing about the ending.
- I couldn't care less about Michelle's departure for Indiana. Was that supposed to be symbolic? Like, maybe she is Daz's parallel because they had "an eye thing"? And they both left Rich's life for good? Which would be kinda dumb.
- Linda and Rich getting together in spite of her beloved brother's death. Will they stay in NY or move to Kansas? How's that going to work out?
- Why the freaking hell did Rich turn down that job? Now that Daz is out of the picture, it should be even easier to make that choice. Why did he make the exact wrong one? He should have moved on from everything. Now that would be a better ending.
So, yeah. A good potential in the story, but the pacing and the things that Lou Aronica decided to focus on where out of whack.
P.S. weirdly misleading cover fail
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2013
Rich Flaster and Eric Dazman - otherwise known as Flash and Dazzle - are best friends. They work together at an ad agency and spend most of their free time together, too. Most of their male bonding time is over beer, takeout, video games, sports or movies, but that's pretty normal for guy-time, right? And life would continue in that vein for Flash and Daz, except for a couple of bumps in the road. And one of them is big; insurmountable, even.
This book had a slow start and I couldn't get into the first-person narration. Add to the fact that the protagonists are men and they live in NYC... I just couldn't relate.
But almost halfway through, I realized I WAS into it. I cared about Flash and his career. I cared about Dazzle and his family issues. I cared about Eric and Rich's friendship, and how it was going to play out.
The ending is wonderful (beware... the kindle edition ends before 90%) and the middle is pretty good too. Lou Aronica writes authentic dialogue and believable characters. And though the plot wasn't what I was expecting at first, I appreciated Aronica's approach to the themes of friendship, loss, grief, and love.
Three stars for solid writing, engaging dialogue and well developed main characters. Overall, I enjoyed it.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This book had a slow start and I couldn't get into the first-person narration. Add to the fact that the protagonists are men and they live in NYC... I just couldn't relate.
But almost halfway through, I realized I WAS into it. I cared about Flash and his career. I cared about Dazzle and his family issues. I cared about Eric and Rich's friendship, and how it was going to play out.
The ending is wonderful (beware... the kindle edition ends before 90%) and the middle is pretty good too. Lou Aronica writes authentic dialogue and believable characters. And though the plot wasn't what I was expecting at first, I appreciated Aronica's approach to the themes of friendship, loss, grief, and love.
Three stars for solid writing, engaging dialogue and well developed main characters. Overall, I enjoyed it.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
March 11, 2022
flash and dazzle by Lou Aronica
Story of two guys who first meet in college and after moving in with one another one year they go even further with their careers together.
They are a duo of making advertisements for products no one has heard of and they hit the mark. They each have their own apartment and work for the same company and are considering having their own ad agency.
Daz is hospitalized and Frash takes it hard because he was working leisurely on a deal with Prince in Hamptons.
Work gets different and difficult for those who are his friends.
Love when Eric's sister Linda shows up to take care of him. Hard to watch him die but love the time and the things they are able to do with him.
Didn't see the ending as it was written, beautiful. Reminds me of 'Love Story' as the guys did love one another from the day they had met.
Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
Story of two guys who first meet in college and after moving in with one another one year they go even further with their careers together.
They are a duo of making advertisements for products no one has heard of and they hit the mark. They each have their own apartment and work for the same company and are considering having their own ad agency.
Daz is hospitalized and Frash takes it hard because he was working leisurely on a deal with Prince in Hamptons.
Work gets different and difficult for those who are his friends.
Love when Eric's sister Linda shows up to take care of him. Hard to watch him die but love the time and the things they are able to do with him.
Didn't see the ending as it was written, beautiful. Reminds me of 'Love Story' as the guys did love one another from the day they had met.
Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
May 26, 2017
Not the type of book I would normally read, I'm glad I picked up this intense novel about young adult males in the high pressure world of advertising. Two best friends, one terminally ill, face what their friendship has meant to them both. A smart and beautiful sister adds a feminine point of view to this tragic tale. This is an author with heart. I'll try his other books too.
October 6, 2013
Flash and Dazzle
by Lou Aronica
This book was provided to me free by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Finish time: 3 nights. And just to toot my own horn (as this probably is not a big deal, but makes me feel cool!), this book isn’t released until November 5th, 2013! I feel so “in-the-know” lately, as I also got to preview THIS AMAZING ALBUM before it was released to the public too!
I really enjoyed this author’s writing style. If I wrote a book, I would imagine it would be similar to this style (although that will never happen as I lack the creative juices to do so.) I’m not sure if this fits into the genre of “chick-lit”, but I’m considering passing it along to my husband to fact-check as I was surprised by the amount of detail it went into marketing/advertising agencies (as this is how he began his career!). Not bad, but just put me off at first and I had to look back at the description because that didn’t sound like a book I would choose. But it built up the story and the history and current positions of the characters. And from what Steven (my husband) has told me, it actually appears to be pretty accurate! Which is a good thing as I’ve been frustrated in books before about the lack of research on simple subjects!
The story follows Rich and Eric, who early in their advertising career were dubbed “Flash & Dazzle.” The book explores the highs and lows of their friendship and careers (as they happen to be business partners too.) And then the ultimate low for one of the friends. On a side note – it also made my mouth water with the vivid descriptions of their meals each night from various Manhattan restaurants!
I love this excerpt from the description:
What happens when everything you thought was true changes all at once? What happens when each relationship that means anything to you suddenly becomes far more real than you ever thought it would be? What happens when every moment becomes invaluable as all of them pass far too quickly?
An unlikely story, of two guys nonetheless, to really warm your heart, maybe hold some people a little closer, and live each moment to the fullest. Check it out – you’ll be glad you did!
http://mydogearedpurpose.com/2013/10/...
by Lou Aronica
This book was provided to me free by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Finish time: 3 nights. And just to toot my own horn (as this probably is not a big deal, but makes me feel cool!), this book isn’t released until November 5th, 2013! I feel so “in-the-know” lately, as I also got to preview THIS AMAZING ALBUM before it was released to the public too!
I really enjoyed this author’s writing style. If I wrote a book, I would imagine it would be similar to this style (although that will never happen as I lack the creative juices to do so.) I’m not sure if this fits into the genre of “chick-lit”, but I’m considering passing it along to my husband to fact-check as I was surprised by the amount of detail it went into marketing/advertising agencies (as this is how he began his career!). Not bad, but just put me off at first and I had to look back at the description because that didn’t sound like a book I would choose. But it built up the story and the history and current positions of the characters. And from what Steven (my husband) has told me, it actually appears to be pretty accurate! Which is a good thing as I’ve been frustrated in books before about the lack of research on simple subjects!
The story follows Rich and Eric, who early in their advertising career were dubbed “Flash & Dazzle.” The book explores the highs and lows of their friendship and careers (as they happen to be business partners too.) And then the ultimate low for one of the friends. On a side note – it also made my mouth water with the vivid descriptions of their meals each night from various Manhattan restaurants!
I love this excerpt from the description:
What happens when everything you thought was true changes all at once? What happens when each relationship that means anything to you suddenly becomes far more real than you ever thought it would be? What happens when every moment becomes invaluable as all of them pass far too quickly?
An unlikely story, of two guys nonetheless, to really warm your heart, maybe hold some people a little closer, and live each moment to the fullest. Check it out – you’ll be glad you did!
http://mydogearedpurpose.com/2013/10/...
November 7, 2013
Flash and Dazzle are two guys lucky enough to find each other not only as great colleagues but who also become best friends or soul mates who supposedly know each other’s thoughts before they are thought and who bring out the best in each other. Their friendship is uniquely remarkable, but their future is about to become even more so in the most unexpected way possible. Flash is a copywriter and Dazzle is an art director in a small but well-known ad agency. Reading about how they bounce ideas off each other until they come up with brilliant ad campaigns is fascinating stuff and even humorous because of their antics and light style with it all. They are no lightweights in the industry, however; and Flash is very, very surprised when another opportunity arises for him to work elsewhere, without Daz, his best buddy.
Flash will be wined and dined, interviewed, cosseted with a perky weekend trip set to woo him but with one unexpected caveat that stuns him. That won’t be the ultimate stunner, however, as he doesn’t realize that the recent brief illnesses of Daz are much more serious, in fact devastating.
It’s after discovering Daz’s problem that the real sharing about life and life’s changes suddenly become devastatingly real and poignant beyond words. In the process he meets Daz’s sister and the three discuss numerous serious and hilarious memories that forged their personalities into the capable and admirable people they have become.
Secrets and fantasies fill the mix as the three friends work their way through exotic meals, movies and music while awaiting the ultimate challenge of change. There are potent moments that are depicted in a very real way without being maudlin or exaggerated. A deep respect for the vivaciousness of life fills every page and the prospect of change heightens each moment’s precious value.
Flash and Dazzle, like so many of Lou Aronica’s other novels, is a dynamic contemporary novel that readers will for sure find fully engaging and worthwhile reading. Lou Aronica is a talented writer who uses subtlety rather than explicit description to depict the normalcy, quirkiness and fluctuations of honest characters. Terrific writing and reading!
Flash will be wined and dined, interviewed, cosseted with a perky weekend trip set to woo him but with one unexpected caveat that stuns him. That won’t be the ultimate stunner, however, as he doesn’t realize that the recent brief illnesses of Daz are much more serious, in fact devastating.
It’s after discovering Daz’s problem that the real sharing about life and life’s changes suddenly become devastatingly real and poignant beyond words. In the process he meets Daz’s sister and the three discuss numerous serious and hilarious memories that forged their personalities into the capable and admirable people they have become.
Secrets and fantasies fill the mix as the three friends work their way through exotic meals, movies and music while awaiting the ultimate challenge of change. There are potent moments that are depicted in a very real way without being maudlin or exaggerated. A deep respect for the vivaciousness of life fills every page and the prospect of change heightens each moment’s precious value.
Flash and Dazzle, like so many of Lou Aronica’s other novels, is a dynamic contemporary novel that readers will for sure find fully engaging and worthwhile reading. Lou Aronica is a talented writer who uses subtlety rather than explicit description to depict the normalcy, quirkiness and fluctuations of honest characters. Terrific writing and reading!
December 28, 2013
** A copy of Flash and Dazzle was given to me from the publisher and NetGalley for reviewing purposes**
I have to admit that I was expecting something entirely different from this book as I find the cover and the synopsis to be slightly misleading when taken together. I thought this was going to be another run of the mill romance , but instead it turned out to be a solid story of friendship, loss and moving on. And thus, I wouldn't say I was disappointed by this book in the slightest.
Eric Dazman and Rich Flaster are best friends. From the moment they meet during their freshman year of college they become inseparable; their lives so completely interwoven that they pursue parallel careers in advertizing - a move that earns them the nickname Flash and Dazzle.
Daz and Rich are at the top of their game, living enviable lives in New York City, climbing the ladder of success when the unbelievable happens - Daz becomes terminally ill. Over the next few weeks (Daz's last), the two friends reflect back on their lives, their friendship and the importance of bonds that can never be replaced. While Rich learns to say goodbye to his best friend, he also discovers the life he wants to lead and just who he wants to share it with.
As I mentioned, I was slightly taken off guard with the plot of this book. I was not expecting it to revolve so heavily around the friendship of these two men. I appreciate how real the story was, especially the reactions of the characters in the face of such a tough loss. Also as a native New Yorker, I loved the homage paid to the city, it made the story so much more vivid for me as I could see the scenes in my mind as they took place. My one disappointment with this book was that I felt a lot of the plot line just skimmed the surface instead of delving deeply into the action. For example, I can understand the connection that was forged between Rich and Linda - but you don't exactly see it happen as clearly. Same goes for Rich's interaction with the K&C execs which seemed to fall off right in the middle of the book. All and all, however, this book was a quick and enjoyable read and I wouldn't be against reading more from the author in the future.
I have to admit that I was expecting something entirely different from this book as I find the cover and the synopsis to be slightly misleading when taken together. I thought this was going to be another run of the mill romance , but instead it turned out to be a solid story of friendship, loss and moving on. And thus, I wouldn't say I was disappointed by this book in the slightest.
Eric Dazman and Rich Flaster are best friends. From the moment they meet during their freshman year of college they become inseparable; their lives so completely interwoven that they pursue parallel careers in advertizing - a move that earns them the nickname Flash and Dazzle.
Daz and Rich are at the top of their game, living enviable lives in New York City, climbing the ladder of success when the unbelievable happens - Daz becomes terminally ill. Over the next few weeks (Daz's last), the two friends reflect back on their lives, their friendship and the importance of bonds that can never be replaced. While Rich learns to say goodbye to his best friend, he also discovers the life he wants to lead and just who he wants to share it with.
As I mentioned, I was slightly taken off guard with the plot of this book. I was not expecting it to revolve so heavily around the friendship of these two men. I appreciate how real the story was, especially the reactions of the characters in the face of such a tough loss. Also as a native New Yorker, I loved the homage paid to the city, it made the story so much more vivid for me as I could see the scenes in my mind as they took place. My one disappointment with this book was that I felt a lot of the plot line just skimmed the surface instead of delving deeply into the action. For example, I can understand the connection that was forged between Rich and Linda - but you don't exactly see it happen as clearly. Same goes for Rich's interaction with the K&C execs which seemed to fall off right in the middle of the book. All and all, however, this book was a quick and enjoyable read and I wouldn't be against reading more from the author in the future.
December 11, 2013
It's no secret that romance is my genre. Normally, if the plot doesn't revolve around romance, I'm not that big of a fan. So when I was asked to review Flash and Dazzle, I was a bit skeptical. A book about best friends? And not a romance? But I decided to give it a go, and I'm so happy I did!
Rich and Daz have been best friends since their Freshman year of college, and have gone through life together as the dynamic duo Flash and Dazzle. Working together in advertising, the guys have fallen into a routine of working at a job they love and just loving life. But when something life changing happens to Daz, the best friends soon embark on an emotional journey, testing just how strong and deep their friendship really runs.
Wow. Who knew a book about two guys being best friends could be so good? The story is told through Rich's (Dazzle's) point of view, and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. Rich is such a complex guy and he really loves Daz (platonically), so getting to know Daz through Rich's mind gives us a much deeper understanding of a guy who seems like Mr. Perfect to everyone else around. Their friendship is something that everyone, well at least I, can relate to and it's truly put to the test as these guys go through life changing moments together.
The life Rich and Daz have together is so fun and I love all of the little details. Whether they're playing video games, eating out, or working at their super cool office, the guys are just happy living the way they do. I love their little quirks and obsessions, especially who obsessed Rich is with food and Daz is with music. These guys just find joy in the little things. I think that's why it's so emotional when Daz gets the life changing news and their entire world comes to a stand still. This book really gets you thinking about life and relationships, and how you got to where you are today.
What more can I say? Flash and Dazzle was an absolutely phenomenal book that just pulls at the heart strings. It's light and fun while being heavy and serious all at the same time. Their story reflects life in such a perfect and endearing way, and I ate up every word of it.
Rich and Daz have been best friends since their Freshman year of college, and have gone through life together as the dynamic duo Flash and Dazzle. Working together in advertising, the guys have fallen into a routine of working at a job they love and just loving life. But when something life changing happens to Daz, the best friends soon embark on an emotional journey, testing just how strong and deep their friendship really runs.
Wow. Who knew a book about two guys being best friends could be so good? The story is told through Rich's (Dazzle's) point of view, and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. Rich is such a complex guy and he really loves Daz (platonically), so getting to know Daz through Rich's mind gives us a much deeper understanding of a guy who seems like Mr. Perfect to everyone else around. Their friendship is something that everyone, well at least I, can relate to and it's truly put to the test as these guys go through life changing moments together.
The life Rich and Daz have together is so fun and I love all of the little details. Whether they're playing video games, eating out, or working at their super cool office, the guys are just happy living the way they do. I love their little quirks and obsessions, especially who obsessed Rich is with food and Daz is with music. These guys just find joy in the little things. I think that's why it's so emotional when Daz gets the life changing news and their entire world comes to a stand still. This book really gets you thinking about life and relationships, and how you got to where you are today.
What more can I say? Flash and Dazzle was an absolutely phenomenal book that just pulls at the heart strings. It's light and fun while being heavy and serious all at the same time. Their story reflects life in such a perfect and endearing way, and I ate up every word of it.
December 9, 2013
Flash and Dazzle by Lou Aronica
A friendship destined to last for eternity!
Flash and Dazzle is an endearing story chronicling the relationship of two friends that become inseparable even by death. Full of laugh-out-loud moments needed to cut the tension of the heart breaking ordeal, Lou Aronica, masterfully crafted this emotional story.
The characters Rich Flaster and Eric Dazman are so real; the reader will feel like they are part of the duo’s close knit friends. Rooting for the triumphs and being awed by the tragedies, then being tumbled on the path towards grief, the emotions are raw and surreal as you journey along with Flash and Daz. It is a testament that great friendships matter and they do not end even when Death comes calling. Aronica handled the serious scenes with such grace that they come off as heartfelt celebrations despite the dire circumstances.
The journey is told through Flash’s eyes, relating the events as they unfold while taking steps backward in time to further the exploration of their lives. It is a coming of age story for two men in their late 20’s. The lessons they learn should be standard curriculum for any college student as the universal theme of what is really important in life is played out for the reader to witness along side the characters. It questions if there is imbalance between the pursuit of success and what really makes a person happy. It questions how much of a person’s past shapes their future. It questions loyalty and examines that love is a non-romantic emotion that can grow between two friends. It emphatically states that this love can endure anything and is the most important of them all.
It is within my sincere hope that a screenplay adaptation can lead to a movie, as this is one story that most definitely needs to be seen on the big screen.
To see other works by Lou Aronica, visit his website at: http://www.louaronica.com/
And as co-owner of The Story Plant publishing: http://thestoryplant.com/
A friendship destined to last for eternity!
Flash and Dazzle is an endearing story chronicling the relationship of two friends that become inseparable even by death. Full of laugh-out-loud moments needed to cut the tension of the heart breaking ordeal, Lou Aronica, masterfully crafted this emotional story.
The characters Rich Flaster and Eric Dazman are so real; the reader will feel like they are part of the duo’s close knit friends. Rooting for the triumphs and being awed by the tragedies, then being tumbled on the path towards grief, the emotions are raw and surreal as you journey along with Flash and Daz. It is a testament that great friendships matter and they do not end even when Death comes calling. Aronica handled the serious scenes with such grace that they come off as heartfelt celebrations despite the dire circumstances.
The journey is told through Flash’s eyes, relating the events as they unfold while taking steps backward in time to further the exploration of their lives. It is a coming of age story for two men in their late 20’s. The lessons they learn should be standard curriculum for any college student as the universal theme of what is really important in life is played out for the reader to witness along side the characters. It questions if there is imbalance between the pursuit of success and what really makes a person happy. It questions how much of a person’s past shapes their future. It questions loyalty and examines that love is a non-romantic emotion that can grow between two friends. It emphatically states that this love can endure anything and is the most important of them all.
It is within my sincere hope that a screenplay adaptation can lead to a movie, as this is one story that most definitely needs to be seen on the big screen.
To see other works by Lou Aronica, visit his website at: http://www.louaronica.com/
And as co-owner of The Story Plant publishing: http://thestoryplant.com/
June 8, 2017
I found it boring and stopped reading it so stop asking me for reviews of this book!
November 3, 2013
*********This is a First Reads ******* Thank You Goodreads ********
This book is going to stay with you long after you have put it down and you are going to wonder how is it that you never heard of it or the author before this?!
This is the story of Rich Flaster and Eric Dazman, their association as work partners and deep friendship. The book is told from Flash's perspective and gives a fresh look into male bonds of friendship. Meeting Daz in college and clicking, they partner up to do campaigns around campus, find themselves inseparable, and in their twenties in New York's advertising world.
When a crisis happens and you have to take a look around, who is it that you see and what is it that you see? This is that story. The story of the depth of friendship and love that two friends have that spans years of their lives. The author does not give the reader a saccharine version, but rather one the reads true and as real as if it had jumped off the page.
I really enjoyed the characters, I found myself laughing and crying (sometimes at the same time), the writing style is fresh and honest, and the way I felt as I was reading and after I put down the book. There is a message here, will you listen to it?
This book is going to stay with you long after you have put it down and you are going to wonder how is it that you never heard of it or the author before this?!
This is the story of Rich Flaster and Eric Dazman, their association as work partners and deep friendship. The book is told from Flash's perspective and gives a fresh look into male bonds of friendship. Meeting Daz in college and clicking, they partner up to do campaigns around campus, find themselves inseparable, and in their twenties in New York's advertising world.
When a crisis happens and you have to take a look around, who is it that you see and what is it that you see? This is that story. The story of the depth of friendship and love that two friends have that spans years of their lives. The author does not give the reader a saccharine version, but rather one the reads true and as real as if it had jumped off the page.
I really enjoyed the characters, I found myself laughing and crying (sometimes at the same time), the writing style is fresh and honest, and the way I felt as I was reading and after I put down the book. There is a message here, will you listen to it?
March 19, 2015
Words for describing Flash and Dazzle: a tearjerker, brilliant, heartbreaking, thought provoking, memorable....I will never forget this book!
Here's what I thought I was going to read. I thought this book was a man's read. A story about two men and their friendship. I thought I would have to push myself through it. I thought I would maybe be bored and I thought I wouldn't care for it. Could these suspicions have been any further from the truth? I came so close to not responding to the request for a read and review.
Well let me just say, that decision would have been to my detriment and a great loss, knowing what I know now. Flash and Dazzle is a story about love and friendship and the sins friends can commit against even their very best friends. It is about life changing events and how we respond to them. It is a story of life, in all its wonderful goodness and badness.
Aronica has a very engaging writing style and tells his story with refreshing candor and humor. I felt as if this was the most honest story I have read this year and one that I will not soon forget. It touched my heart and soul in a very deep and profound manner.
To say I loved it is a much lesser representation of how I truly felt. I love authors who speak to my heart.
Here's what I thought I was going to read. I thought this book was a man's read. A story about two men and their friendship. I thought I would have to push myself through it. I thought I would maybe be bored and I thought I wouldn't care for it. Could these suspicions have been any further from the truth? I came so close to not responding to the request for a read and review.
Well let me just say, that decision would have been to my detriment and a great loss, knowing what I know now. Flash and Dazzle is a story about love and friendship and the sins friends can commit against even their very best friends. It is about life changing events and how we respond to them. It is a story of life, in all its wonderful goodness and badness.
Aronica has a very engaging writing style and tells his story with refreshing candor and humor. I felt as if this was the most honest story I have read this year and one that I will not soon forget. It touched my heart and soul in a very deep and profound manner.
To say I loved it is a much lesser representation of how I truly felt. I love authors who speak to my heart.
March 8, 2018
THE ABSOLUTE BEST!!
I have been reading this series in order and have enjoyed each novel in it to this point although only one other up til now moved me so greatly that I HAD to leave a review!! It went beyond a compulsion...it was a deep-seated need to share it. I didn't expect another novel in the series to effect me in such a way. That's just so rare in serial stories it seems. And this story didn't reach that level...IT OBLITERATED IT!! This one will make your heart sing, your soul cry and every emotion in between!! You will love it so much and feel that it's such a REAL experience you have survived that you will kind of hate it for taking you on that journey despite being so thrilled to have been fortunate to have found such a gem!! The talent required to inspire such emotion in a reader, such personal involvement in a story, is awe-inspiring!! I think after reading this novel I will always carry a little FLASH AND DAZZLE inside me! 💗 Read it! NOW!!! You don't want to miss this piece of art and this joyful, heart wrenching, realistic celebration of life, friendship and love!!
I have been reading this series in order and have enjoyed each novel in it to this point although only one other up til now moved me so greatly that I HAD to leave a review!! It went beyond a compulsion...it was a deep-seated need to share it. I didn't expect another novel in the series to effect me in such a way. That's just so rare in serial stories it seems. And this story didn't reach that level...IT OBLITERATED IT!! This one will make your heart sing, your soul cry and every emotion in between!! You will love it so much and feel that it's such a REAL experience you have survived that you will kind of hate it for taking you on that journey despite being so thrilled to have been fortunate to have found such a gem!! The talent required to inspire such emotion in a reader, such personal involvement in a story, is awe-inspiring!! I think after reading this novel I will always carry a little FLASH AND DAZZLE inside me! 💗 Read it! NOW!!! You don't want to miss this piece of art and this joyful, heart wrenching, realistic celebration of life, friendship and love!!
January 16, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
A friendship like one “Flash” and “Daz” have is rare. They meet in college and basically inseparable. But they have their secrets. In the course of this story we earn those secrets and so much more.
Lou Aronica writes a really good story and has created characters a reader can genuinely care about. It makes me wonder if he had a friendship like this.
This book was not exactly what I expected it to be. It took bit a little bit to get into the story but once I did I was almost afraid for it to end because I knew what was coming. I understand the cover now after reading the story but it was a bit misleading. I also think that is just what the author intended.
I do not want to give anything away because I hate when people do that but there is a very serious issue and the way these friends deal with it is very moving. I would have liked a little more depth in a few places but this is a solid story. It may have you looking at your relationships with some of the people in your life a little differently.
November 17, 2013
I won this book in the giveaway section on good reads. As a thank you, I am writing this review.
I enjoyed the style of writing this book showcased. It was almost like you were sitting in a coffee shop with the two main characters and hearing about their lives and stories from their past. The characters were very relatable and down to earth. The plot is based on a serious topic, brain cancer. However, the book isn't overly sad or depressing instead it focused on the life Daz lived not the one he was losing. I think it also helped that the beginning was the end and you knew what to expect. I enjoyed the characters and their sense of humor. It was endearing to read a story about two guys who were best friends. I felt like the word luminous and other synonyms were used to describe Linda a little bit too much. Over all it was a good story and the message you're left with is a valuable one.
I enjoyed the style of writing this book showcased. It was almost like you were sitting in a coffee shop with the two main characters and hearing about their lives and stories from their past. The characters were very relatable and down to earth. The plot is based on a serious topic, brain cancer. However, the book isn't overly sad or depressing instead it focused on the life Daz lived not the one he was losing. I think it also helped that the beginning was the end and you knew what to expect. I enjoyed the characters and their sense of humor. It was endearing to read a story about two guys who were best friends. I felt like the word luminous and other synonyms were used to describe Linda a little bit too much. Over all it was a good story and the message you're left with is a valuable one.
September 26, 2013
Flash and Dazzle is the story of two friends who have been close for years and expect to be friends for a lot longer. They make an exciting duo, working for an advertising firm where they come up with some brilliant ideas together.
However, things change when Daz is diagnosed with a brain tumour and he becomes very ill very quickly. Flash is left to make his own decisions and work with another partner and he doesn’t find this easy.
Aronica has written a fast paced and contemporary story with a couple of interesting characters. I wondered if the story would have grabbed me more if the other characters were more fleshed out. As it is, I found that I could not relate too well to the plot, as it didn’t delve deep enough into either main character.
However, things change when Daz is diagnosed with a brain tumour and he becomes very ill very quickly. Flash is left to make his own decisions and work with another partner and he doesn’t find this easy.
Aronica has written a fast paced and contemporary story with a couple of interesting characters. I wondered if the story would have grabbed me more if the other characters were more fleshed out. As it is, I found that I could not relate too well to the plot, as it didn’t delve deep enough into either main character.
September 17, 2013
I received this book as an ARC. I wasn't sure what to expect-the cover was really misleading. I felt that the story told more about two friends going through the bumps of identity in college and carrying it over to adulthood. When Daz learns that he is the next receipient of a family illness the friendship takes on a different dimension. Flash feels he has been somewhat betrayed by learning that there was so much more to his friend than what he knew. Flash finally learns what true love looks and feels like during this time. He is totally taken off guard by the Daz's sister.
December 28, 2013
I struggled to get into this book. About half way through I got hooked. The ending was awesome! I liked that you sort of know the ending from the start. I think I would have given it four chairs had it grabbed me from the beginning.
It was great to read about men's friendships that are so different, yet so similar to female relationships. The characters were well developed and I did care about them.
Overall, I did enjoy this book.
More reviews at Ope's Opinions.com
It was great to read about men's friendships that are so different, yet so similar to female relationships. The characters were well developed and I did care about them.
Overall, I did enjoy this book.
More reviews at Ope's Opinions.com
September 19, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The relationship between Flash and Dazzle was incredible. It definitely makes you take a step back and look at the relationships you have with others in another light.
This book has a strong message to deliver, and I would recommend this book to all of my friends. This will be a book I'll come back and read again.
**received copy in a goodreads first reads giveaway**
This book has a strong message to deliver, and I would recommend this book to all of my friends. This will be a book I'll come back and read again.
**received copy in a goodreads first reads giveaway**
February 14, 2014
The story line is powerful and the concept is unique so the end result is that this is an excellent read. Warning the feeling of gratitude can overcome, when you finish reading this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Story Plant
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July 23, 2017An involving, moving story of friendship, falsehoods and family that left me grateful for the people in my life.
November 30, 2013
Very interesting read. Enjoyed delving into the male psyche's and enjoyed reading especially the ending.
January 14, 2014
The cover of this book is a little misleading but the story is fantastic. It's touching and genuine. I enjoyed the friendship if these men and how they complimented each other. Great read!
August 22, 2014
A simple story with a predictable ending.
October 12, 2014
I loved this story about male friendship. Written with great humor and understanding. My favorite Aronica novel.
February 16, 2016
can't read without tears!!!!
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