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S.M.A.F.U. Situation Married All F'd Up
When an elderly, and worldly, neighbor notices the impending end of a failing marriage she decides to step in and share her wisdom and life experience. If she can't help save the marriage, perhaps she can at least soften the pain.
SMAFU is a story of strife and redemption; infidelity and loyalty; misunderstanding and learning to understand.
Whether you are looking for a feel-good novel to inspire you to explore your dreams; a novel to help you affirm that you are not alone; or something to help you sit down and open up a new line of communication with your significant other, SMAFU will change your life.
S.M.A.F.U is an expanded version of the original novel entitled "Cherisse".
SMAFU is a story of strife and redemption; infidelity and loyalty; misunderstanding and learning to understand.
Whether you are looking for a feel-good novel to inspire you to explore your dreams; a novel to help you affirm that you are not alone; or something to help you sit down and open up a new line of communication with your significant other, SMAFU will change your life.
S.M.A.F.U is an expanded version of the original novel entitled "Cherisse".
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
19 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 18, 2019
UPDATE 6/18/19
Okay now I feel terrible. The author wrote a very nice comment even though I trashed the book because I am a cheating freak. I did give it two stars for Cherisse but OMG I feel awful. And he was nice!!! He didn't call me out, although he did get it wrong when he said I like bodice rippers which I truly hate (LOL) but I understood what he is saying. I like fluffy romance, i.e. Harlequin, Julie Garwood, Maya Banks (no menage) and serial killer/horror/suspense novels. I don't really review the other ones for some reason even though I read them. But I digress. My point here is I was wrong. We get so caught up in the anonymity of on line comments and forget that other people read this. I wouldn't have said this to his face so why on line. The other day I read a book that was so bad but because the author was really old and born on my Mothers birthday I gave it an okay review. So I need to remember that author have feelings and adjust my rhetoric.
So I just want to say I am a very bad person and I am sorry. This review is based on my own personal, bi-polar, anxiety ridden, pathological preferences and a lot of normal people that are not taking mind altering medication might like it. It got some very good reviews so just understand I am bent. I cannot write a novel to save my life, so I should be nicer in my reviews because authors do the best they can and I am now putting myself in time out. I will be nicer in the future, as long as there is no cheating...
Two stars for Cherisse
Cherisse was a great character. She was wise and had loved fully and loved wisely. Steve was an a$$ and didn't deserve to be called a hero. This is definitely not a romance and both he and his wife slept with someone else and didn't respect their vows. They had been married 17 years and Steve was a snarky egotistical jerk who was tired of his life and his wife. She felt unloved and unattractive and stuck in a marriage to a man who never had time for her. I could have cared less of they got back together. Ever. I did not become invested in their story and only finished this to read about Cherise. And I was disappointed at how her story played out. I didn't see any laugh out loud humor in the story but that is just me. Other people loved it. The whole story of Mary and Steve was not for me personally and why they got back together is beyond me. I saw no love in this story except for the story of Cherisse and Henry. And he was dead. This is NOT a romance. There is no happily ever after to be found even though they end up reuniting. They both just settled. Very depressing. I wish I'd never read it. Thank goodness it was free on KU.
By the way the name of the book I read and the edition I selected was SMAFU not Cherisse Uncut. I don't know how that changed on my profile. I changed it back to SMAFU, Just FYI.
Okay now I feel terrible. The author wrote a very nice comment even though I trashed the book because I am a cheating freak. I did give it two stars for Cherisse but OMG I feel awful. And he was nice!!! He didn't call me out, although he did get it wrong when he said I like bodice rippers which I truly hate (LOL) but I understood what he is saying. I like fluffy romance, i.e. Harlequin, Julie Garwood, Maya Banks (no menage) and serial killer/horror/suspense novels. I don't really review the other ones for some reason even though I read them. But I digress. My point here is I was wrong. We get so caught up in the anonymity of on line comments and forget that other people read this. I wouldn't have said this to his face so why on line. The other day I read a book that was so bad but because the author was really old and born on my Mothers birthday I gave it an okay review. So I need to remember that author have feelings and adjust my rhetoric.
So I just want to say I am a very bad person and I am sorry. This review is based on my own personal, bi-polar, anxiety ridden, pathological preferences and a lot of normal people that are not taking mind altering medication might like it. It got some very good reviews so just understand I am bent. I cannot write a novel to save my life, so I should be nicer in my reviews because authors do the best they can and I am now putting myself in time out. I will be nicer in the future, as long as there is no cheating...
Two stars for Cherisse
Cherisse was a great character. She was wise and had loved fully and loved wisely. Steve was an a$$ and didn't deserve to be called a hero. This is definitely not a romance and both he and his wife slept with someone else and didn't respect their vows. They had been married 17 years and Steve was a snarky egotistical jerk who was tired of his life and his wife. She felt unloved and unattractive and stuck in a marriage to a man who never had time for her. I could have cared less of they got back together. Ever. I did not become invested in their story and only finished this to read about Cherise. And I was disappointed at how her story played out. I didn't see any laugh out loud humor in the story but that is just me. Other people loved it. The whole story of Mary and Steve was not for me personally and why they got back together is beyond me. I saw no love in this story except for the story of Cherisse and Henry. And he was dead. This is NOT a romance. There is no happily ever after to be found even though they end up reuniting. They both just settled. Very depressing. I wish I'd never read it. Thank goodness it was free on KU.
By the way the name of the book I read and the edition I selected was SMAFU not Cherisse Uncut. I don't know how that changed on my profile. I changed it back to SMAFU, Just FYI.
December 3, 2018
I have to say this is the first book I have read that comes with a suggested ‘play list’ to listen to with the book!
Secondly at the end with all the legal stuff you have to put I loved that in the middle of it was written ‘I made it all up’ 😃
Now the story, ( although at times it felt too real and personal
to just be a story)....Steve and Mary have a struggling marriage, 3 kids and are just about ‘keeping it together’ when Cherrise a woman in her 90’s moves in next door...the book then charts their eventual break up, re courtship and ‘get back together’ with the help/interference of Cherrise
I really liked Steve, his honesty, dry humour and insightfulness was just great to read, I really warmed to him and LOVED when he answered someone but gave what he was really thinking answer in his mind ( something we all do every day ), I also found him kinda vulnerable and his hurting at what was happening I found real and not trivialised or macho etc
Mary was a tad more trying with her unspoken replies and double meanings to everything but was a strong character who ultimately knew what she wanted and set back out to reclaim it
Now Cherisse, dear old Cherisse, nosey old Cherisse 😃, IMO she had way too much to say starting on the day she moved in next door....however she meant well and did impart some words that helped, the authors descriptions of her and her house were fascinating
The book was humorous yet poignant and sad all through and I think many people will relate to various bits of each ‘mood’ re their own experiences
Cheeky in parts and reflective in others it was a good,enjoyable read, a book of 2 emotions well brought together
8/10 4 Stars
October 10, 2016
All my reviews can be found at: www.jessicasreadingroom.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of SMAFU to read for review from THE Book Club (TBC) on Facebook. I am thankful for the opportunity as I enjoyed the book!
Steve and Mary have been married for seventeen years and their marriage is in trouble and has been for a long time. They move to a new house and meet Cherisse who changes their lives. Cherisse is 90+ years old and “tells it like it is”. She tells stories of her life along with parables to both Steve and Mary. As you learn things about Cherisse’s life, maybe a little more than you want to know, she tries to help save Steve and Mary’s marriage. Steve is the main character in SMAFU, and most of the book is from his perspective. Therefore, we get to see what marriage can be like from the male perspective, which we don’t get much in novels. We see his thoughts and mistakes he makes.
This book has lots of humor (my favorite was when Steve tries to grocery shop!), sarcasm, and it makes you think. I love Cherisse’s character! I wish there was someone like her in reality. She can really teach someone based on all her life experiences.
Will Steve and Mary save their marriage or is it destined to end as it was the beginning of the book? You will have to read to find out!
**Thank you again TBC for the copy of SMAFU
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of SMAFU to read for review from THE Book Club (TBC) on Facebook. I am thankful for the opportunity as I enjoyed the book!
Steve and Mary have been married for seventeen years and their marriage is in trouble and has been for a long time. They move to a new house and meet Cherisse who changes their lives. Cherisse is 90+ years old and “tells it like it is”. She tells stories of her life along with parables to both Steve and Mary. As you learn things about Cherisse’s life, maybe a little more than you want to know, she tries to help save Steve and Mary’s marriage. Steve is the main character in SMAFU, and most of the book is from his perspective. Therefore, we get to see what marriage can be like from the male perspective, which we don’t get much in novels. We see his thoughts and mistakes he makes.
This book has lots of humor (my favorite was when Steve tries to grocery shop!), sarcasm, and it makes you think. I love Cherisse’s character! I wish there was someone like her in reality. She can really teach someone based on all her life experiences.
Will Steve and Mary save their marriage or is it destined to end as it was the beginning of the book? You will have to read to find out!
**Thank you again TBC for the copy of SMAFU
September 30, 2016
When I read the blurb for this book I knew I would enjoy it, in fact I loved it. It's a very moving story of a couple and their troubled marriage and a lot of people who read this will be able to relate to it. Cherisse is their wise 90 year old neighbour who tries to give advice in her own way, she is a very kind hearted, wonderful and funny lady. I admit I shed a few tears but also laughed from beginning to end. If I could give more than 5 stars I would, a absolute gem of a book. Many thanks to the author and TBC for the ARC. I highly recommend you read this brilliant book.
December 23, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this book knowing that this was not the typical contemporary romance, in which the muscled, tattooed, billionaire falls head over heels for an ordinary, but strikingly beautiful young woman. Instead... Michael Booso's debut novel "Cherisse" puts you front and center into the midst of a troubled marriage with three kids. The couple, Steve and Mary, have been married for a number of years and life has done more than it's share of getting in the way of love. There is very little, if any, love left. After moving to a new neighborhood, the couple befriends their elderly neighbor, the Ninety year old Cherisse, whose life experience has taught her how to live and how to love. She immediately goes to work on the young couple, but Steve is not going to make it easy for her. Told from Steve's perspective, the story will have you going back and forth between cheering him on... or wanting to wring his neck!
Steve is a typical guy. He's a hard working husband and father. By everyone's account he is a "good man". That's why he cannot fathom why this isn't enough for his wife Mary. He finds that after all these years, he not that fond of her either. So when his neighbor Cherisse begins giving him "lessons" in life he resists strongly. Like most men who don't understand women, he cannot see the clues laid out in front on him. Can Cherisse impart all her wisdom and experience into Steve and Mary before it's too late?
Steve is funny and his heart is in the right place. Seeing him go through the events and how he justifies his thoughts and actions in the book is more realistic than most books I've read in a long time. His character really resonated with me and speaks to my own life experience. I really wish there were more books out there like this, the kind that reminds people what they already have at home.
I highly recommend to anyone, man or woman, who needs encouragement from time to time in their marriage.
I went into this book knowing that this was not the typical contemporary romance, in which the muscled, tattooed, billionaire falls head over heels for an ordinary, but strikingly beautiful young woman. Instead... Michael Booso's debut novel "Cherisse" puts you front and center into the midst of a troubled marriage with three kids. The couple, Steve and Mary, have been married for a number of years and life has done more than it's share of getting in the way of love. There is very little, if any, love left. After moving to a new neighborhood, the couple befriends their elderly neighbor, the Ninety year old Cherisse, whose life experience has taught her how to live and how to love. She immediately goes to work on the young couple, but Steve is not going to make it easy for her. Told from Steve's perspective, the story will have you going back and forth between cheering him on... or wanting to wring his neck!
Steve is a typical guy. He's a hard working husband and father. By everyone's account he is a "good man". That's why he cannot fathom why this isn't enough for his wife Mary. He finds that after all these years, he not that fond of her either. So when his neighbor Cherisse begins giving him "lessons" in life he resists strongly. Like most men who don't understand women, he cannot see the clues laid out in front on him. Can Cherisse impart all her wisdom and experience into Steve and Mary before it's too late?
Steve is funny and his heart is in the right place. Seeing him go through the events and how he justifies his thoughts and actions in the book is more realistic than most books I've read in a long time. His character really resonated with me and speaks to my own life experience. I really wish there were more books out there like this, the kind that reminds people what they already have at home.
I highly recommend to anyone, man or woman, who needs encouragement from time to time in their marriage.
September 25, 2016
I was gifted a copy of S.M.A.F.U. by THE Book Club (TBC) on Facebook in exchange for an honest review.
Weird title right? That’s what I thought, but actually, on reflection, the title is perfect for anyone who has been married longer than five minutes (or in my case twenty-nine years!)
I almost wrote the shortest review ever when I finished SMAFU….
“I NEED a Cherisse” and “You NEED to buy this book”.
But then that wouldn’t be doing justice to the hard work the author has put into this book, so I gave myself a telling-off and decided to write a proper review.
Steve and Mary, a couple ignoring the terminal state of their seventeen-year-old marriage move house next to ninety-year-old Cherisse, a wily old bird with a seriously smutty past!
Cherisse’s ‘advice’ told through stories of her past, cut through the silence, ignorance and plain old-fashioned ‘sticking your head in the sand’ that both Mary and Steve have accepted as their lot in life.
At times, I wanted to slap both Steve and Mary (something Cherisse does to Steve once which was such a funny scene), at others I wanted to shout ‘Yes! I know what you mean”. SMAFU is a wonderfully sad and at the same time, inspiring ride through a marriage which, surely, will resonate with a large proportion of the population. When you have been married longer than five minutes, it’s so easy to take the other person for granted, to get caught up in your career, your mortgage, your bills and your kids.
Steve and Mary are both good people gone wrong through the tribulations life throws at the majority of us.
SMAFU is funny, heartbreaking and uplifting (and that’s a lot for any author to achieve).
We all need a Cherisse in our lives. Sadly, that particular character is all too rare in real life. One thing it has made me think though…..When I grow up, I want to be Cherisse.
Highly recommended.
Weird title right? That’s what I thought, but actually, on reflection, the title is perfect for anyone who has been married longer than five minutes (or in my case twenty-nine years!)
I almost wrote the shortest review ever when I finished SMAFU….
“I NEED a Cherisse” and “You NEED to buy this book”.
But then that wouldn’t be doing justice to the hard work the author has put into this book, so I gave myself a telling-off and decided to write a proper review.
Steve and Mary, a couple ignoring the terminal state of their seventeen-year-old marriage move house next to ninety-year-old Cherisse, a wily old bird with a seriously smutty past!
Cherisse’s ‘advice’ told through stories of her past, cut through the silence, ignorance and plain old-fashioned ‘sticking your head in the sand’ that both Mary and Steve have accepted as their lot in life.
At times, I wanted to slap both Steve and Mary (something Cherisse does to Steve once which was such a funny scene), at others I wanted to shout ‘Yes! I know what you mean”. SMAFU is a wonderfully sad and at the same time, inspiring ride through a marriage which, surely, will resonate with a large proportion of the population. When you have been married longer than five minutes, it’s so easy to take the other person for granted, to get caught up in your career, your mortgage, your bills and your kids.
Steve and Mary are both good people gone wrong through the tribulations life throws at the majority of us.
SMAFU is funny, heartbreaking and uplifting (and that’s a lot for any author to achieve).
We all need a Cherisse in our lives. Sadly, that particular character is all too rare in real life. One thing it has made me think though…..When I grow up, I want to be Cherisse.
Highly recommended.
May 7, 2016
From all the romances I have read this one is the one I will remember the most and certainly will read it more times. Michael Bosso is a phenomenal author, he presents us this couple who has three kids and is on the brink of divorce. Mary and Steve are fleshed out in a way that they couldn't be more realistic. Mr. Bosso makes us cry with them, laugh with them, heck even want to slap them. We see all the anger, resentment and ofcourse the love that are involved in such a situation. By chance Mary and Steve come across Cherisse and this woman will change their lives forever...
This book is not just a romance it includes great humor, sarcasm and an outstanding amount of wit and it is written by a man which makes everything take on a different ( I could say even fresher) perpspective. It is a must for both women and men, married and single. It will teach you a lot about relationships, what to do and what not to do. Enjoy and learn from it while you have an opportunity!
Thank you Michael Bosso for the free copy provided http://circleofbooks.com/2016/04/19/c...
This book is not just a romance it includes great humor, sarcasm and an outstanding amount of wit and it is written by a man which makes everything take on a different ( I could say even fresher) perpspective. It is a must for both women and men, married and single. It will teach you a lot about relationships, what to do and what not to do. Enjoy and learn from it while you have an opportunity!
Thank you Michael Bosso for the free copy provided http://circleofbooks.com/2016/04/19/c...
October 16, 2016
I was lucky enough to receive a copy from THE Book Club on facebook - I was intrigued as I'd read lots of good reviews (and of course the interesting title certainly played a part) and I wasn't disappointed. The book was well-written, and from a refreshingly male perspective - both Mary and Steve were well-rounded characters, making you root for them but be equally infuriated at times.
The storyline is engaging - I've been married a few years (not as long as our main characters!) but I think anyone would enjoy this regardless of their own situation.
The character of Cherisse is very memorable - right from her first (slightly violent) encounter, and I think many of us could do with her in our lives. But I guess we'll just have to stick with the next best thing and read this excellent book!
The storyline is engaging - I've been married a few years (not as long as our main characters!) but I think anyone would enjoy this regardless of their own situation.
The character of Cherisse is very memorable - right from her first (slightly violent) encounter, and I think many of us could do with her in our lives. But I guess we'll just have to stick with the next best thing and read this excellent book!
May 10, 2016
I loved this book! I think it is a great mainstream fiction story with a hint of romance. It has a fresh perspective which means it is difficult to categorize into any one genre. Michael Bosso introduces our heroine, Cherisse, through the eyes of Steve, the narrator. Cherisse's stimulating character provides a fresh view of what is happening in the story and stands as the voice of wisdom during a tumultuous marital breakdown.
The writer keeps the reader engaged with the story. We see our narrator's flaws and yet admire his personal journey through difficult times. I was captivated by the story from the first paragraph! I highly recommend this book! It is a great read!
The writer keeps the reader engaged with the story. We see our narrator's flaws and yet admire his personal journey through difficult times. I was captivated by the story from the first paragraph! I highly recommend this book! It is a great read!
December 8, 2016
To sum up this book in one word "Perfect", it's one of the most beautifully written books I've ever had the pleasure to read, & it really was a pleasure. Michael Bosso is extremely perceptive! I couldn't help but imagine some/many incidence in my own life which mirrored those in this book. If only I had read this book earlier in my life, I could have saved myself a lot of heart ache. From the very first page I had a tear in my eye then unexpectedly laughing my head off. It should be made available for every couple attending marriage guidance or maybe a great wedding present... My daughter needs to read this now! Best Character Cherisse, although I do have a soft spot for Steve.
October 8, 2016
Steve and Mary have been married for several years and become stuck in a rut like so many couples do. Befriending the elderly next door neighbour, Cherisse, is real eye opener for both of them as Cherisse imparts her wisdom through telling stories of her own experience of life and loves.
This book is recommended for anyone losing their way in a relationship. It has some real laugh out loud moments but also has a serious message for those who want to hear it.
Very easy to read and very enjoyable. I give this 5 stars.
Thank you to TBC and the author E M Bosso for providing me with a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This book is recommended for anyone losing their way in a relationship. It has some real laugh out loud moments but also has a serious message for those who want to hear it.
Very easy to read and very enjoyable. I give this 5 stars.
Thank you to TBC and the author E M Bosso for providing me with a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
October 8, 2016
I received a copy of this book from TBConFB for an honest review.
This book was cleverly written. The couple move house with their children to a new location, due to the husband's work. They stumble across their new neighbour: an active ninety year old.
As the couple's relationship slowly falls apart, the couple seek advice from their new friend, who tells them about her own experiences.
The couple separate and form new friendships; but the couple still seek advise as neither know what they really want from each other.
A good feeling book.
This book was cleverly written. The couple move house with their children to a new location, due to the husband's work. They stumble across their new neighbour: an active ninety year old.
As the couple's relationship slowly falls apart, the couple seek advice from their new friend, who tells them about her own experiences.
The couple separate and form new friendships; but the couple still seek advise as neither know what they really want from each other.
A good feeling book.
October 9, 2016
Thanks to TBC for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As Mary, Steve and their three children move into their new home they meet their new neighbour Cherrise. An old lady, Cherrise befriends them both and give them both the benefit of her experience in life and love.
I found myself being drawn into the lives of all the characters, wondering how things were going to resolve. Right to the end the author keeps us guessing about how things will end.
Not a conventional romance I would recommend this book.
As Mary, Steve and their three children move into their new home they meet their new neighbour Cherrise. An old lady, Cherrise befriends them both and give them both the benefit of her experience in life and love.
I found myself being drawn into the lives of all the characters, wondering how things were going to resolve. Right to the end the author keeps us guessing about how things will end.
Not a conventional romance I would recommend this book.
October 17, 2016
I was given this book to read in exchange for an honest review. And what a brilliant story, one that I can imagine a lot of people can relate with. the story of a broken marriage and how one woman shares her extensive life stories to help fix the situation. I found the husband utterly exhausting one second and then loved him the next. was a great story that sucked me in within the first few pages! I would recommend to friends!
September 14, 2017
Author E.M. Bosso S.M.A.F.U. blends humor and life lessons hard learned! Was not only entertaining but insightful! Caught myself laughing out loud and relating to the life lessons taught by Cherisse, Bosso's heroine, as Mary and Steve stumble their way through marriage! I would suggest anyone in a relationship to read and take to heart. Anyone thinking about being in a relationship would be advised as well! Thank you for the serious lessons taught in a lighthearted manner!
October 16, 2016
A true eye opener to the darker side of a relationship. Despite the testing subject, the added humour makes the situation hit home in multiple ways. Not only that, the author has written a book that will make people shout out 'thank you', thank you for making my rocky moments real.
Thank you TBC for my copy.
Thank you TBC for my copy.
January 18, 2016
Great book! Very insightful and thought provoking I didn’t want to put it down. Love the insight of the male prospective. Would recommend this to all my friends, especially the females.
October 3, 2016
An enjoyable story about Steve & Mary & their relationship problems. Loved Cherisse. This book makes you think about your own relationship after reading it! Thanks to TBC for the review copy.
October 16, 2016
Loved reading the book!
The characters are so life like. It shows exactly how we take important relations for granted and how communication is key to having any relation!!!
The characters are so life like. It shows exactly how we take important relations for granted and how communication is key to having any relation!!!
October 16, 2016
I loved this book!
The story of a marriage from the inside, throwing all stereotypes in their hard, real voices with real thoughts. Great!
The story of a marriage from the inside, throwing all stereotypes in their hard, real voices with real thoughts. Great!
September 26, 2020
Steve is a man whose aim is true; so long as he is shooting himself in the foot. This talent, coupled with a self-absorption to rival Narcissus, a case of terminal self-deprecation, and a masterful inability to control his wisecracking, does little to endear himself to his wife. As narrator to his own tragicomedy of errors, however, Steve jokes and stumbles his way straight into the reader’s heart.
Steve is only one of Bosso’s trinity of endearing, well-constructed main characters inhabiting this tale of loss, redemption, self-realization, and tomfoolery. Mary, Steve’s long-suffering wife, is herself ensconced within her own Sisyphean neuroses; character traits sure to reverberate off of all of Steve’s obsessions; while the heroine, Cherisse, is a feisty 93-year-old who dishes out nuggets of wisdom to Steve and Mary insightful and inscrutable as a Sphinx’s riddle.
Bosso’s smooth writing style and expert character building manage to pull off the realistic story of a crumbling marriage and its resurrection that is at once light-hearted and poignant, hilarious and heart-rending.
An astute, perceptive, and wildly entertaining journey into the depths and heights of human nature and the kind of self-sabotaging behavior that can bring the strongest relationship to its knees.
Steve is only one of Bosso’s trinity of endearing, well-constructed main characters inhabiting this tale of loss, redemption, self-realization, and tomfoolery. Mary, Steve’s long-suffering wife, is herself ensconced within her own Sisyphean neuroses; character traits sure to reverberate off of all of Steve’s obsessions; while the heroine, Cherisse, is a feisty 93-year-old who dishes out nuggets of wisdom to Steve and Mary insightful and inscrutable as a Sphinx’s riddle.
Bosso’s smooth writing style and expert character building manage to pull off the realistic story of a crumbling marriage and its resurrection that is at once light-hearted and poignant, hilarious and heart-rending.
An astute, perceptive, and wildly entertaining journey into the depths and heights of human nature and the kind of self-sabotaging behavior that can bring the strongest relationship to its knees.
June 7, 2016
Let me begin by saying I was rather reluctant to read this novel. Romance is my genre of choice. I like to escape into a world where the hero & heroine begin as an unlikely match, the dialogue is witty, the sex is awesome, an unexpected misunderstanding threatens to turn everything upside down, but all ends well and I get my HEA (Happily Ever After). S.M.A.F.U. is not a romance. However, it is an exceptionally well-written work of fiction, crafted to read like a story your good friend may share with you over coffee, or your buddy might spill during the course of a few beers. One that has you nodding your head in agreement and saying things like, “That’s exactly what my husband/wife does!” And, “I feel the same way!” It will also have you saying to yourself, “Oh boy, I’m guilty of that same bad behavior.” S.M.A.F.U. is about the unraveling marriage of Steve and Mary as told to us by Steve, with an occasional chapter from Mary’s perspective. But it’s more than that. It’s a story that will open your eyes and have you reevaluating your own relationships, mainly due to the fact that Mr. Bosso is extremely astute in the complexities of human behavior.
When Steve and Mary meet their new neighbor, Cherisse, they are prompted to take a good hard look at their marriage. Seventeen years and three children have taken its toll, and this once very much in love couple is now merely going through the motions. They aren’t sure if they even like each other at this point. Cherisse has seen a lot in her 90 years so it's no surprise she picks up on this marriage-on-the-rocks scenario from day one. She’s a delightful combination of charming, sweet, funny and insightful. And she’s way too observant for Steve’s liking. Especially when she decides to subtly step in and give advice. Of course, Cherisse is as subtle as a Mack truck. But then, Steve is rather clueless at times. Which is why Cherisse uses an Aesop’s Fables approach, sharing stories of the ups and downs in her own marital relationships, as she tries to give guidance to this troubled couple.
I was quickly pulled into this story as Steve remembers the early days of their marriage, wondering how they lost the fun, love, and lust. Through Steve’s often humorous inner dialogue and his interactions with Mary, Mr. Bosso hits the marriage nail on the head in regard to how people take each other for granted. How we become insensitive to the feelings of our significant other. How we let ourselves fall into complacency, and how we finally just give up.
S.M.A.F.U. is a debut novel worthy of high praise. Mr. Bosso’s male perspective on marriage is refreshing as well as unique. While it may not be my usual go-to hearts and flowers read, I loved it all the same and highly recommend you add S.M.A.F.U. to your reading list.
*****Reviewed for Xtreme Delusions*****
When Steve and Mary meet their new neighbor, Cherisse, they are prompted to take a good hard look at their marriage. Seventeen years and three children have taken its toll, and this once very much in love couple is now merely going through the motions. They aren’t sure if they even like each other at this point. Cherisse has seen a lot in her 90 years so it's no surprise she picks up on this marriage-on-the-rocks scenario from day one. She’s a delightful combination of charming, sweet, funny and insightful. And she’s way too observant for Steve’s liking. Especially when she decides to subtly step in and give advice. Of course, Cherisse is as subtle as a Mack truck. But then, Steve is rather clueless at times. Which is why Cherisse uses an Aesop’s Fables approach, sharing stories of the ups and downs in her own marital relationships, as she tries to give guidance to this troubled couple.
I was quickly pulled into this story as Steve remembers the early days of their marriage, wondering how they lost the fun, love, and lust. Through Steve’s often humorous inner dialogue and his interactions with Mary, Mr. Bosso hits the marriage nail on the head in regard to how people take each other for granted. How we become insensitive to the feelings of our significant other. How we let ourselves fall into complacency, and how we finally just give up.
S.M.A.F.U. is a debut novel worthy of high praise. Mr. Bosso’s male perspective on marriage is refreshing as well as unique. While it may not be my usual go-to hearts and flowers read, I loved it all the same and highly recommend you add S.M.A.F.U. to your reading list.
*****Reviewed for Xtreme Delusions*****
September 5, 2016
A sexy and humorous walk through life, as an elderly neighbor notices the impending end of a failing marriage and decides to step in and share her wisdom and life experience. If she can't help save the marriage, perhaps she can at least soften the pain.
Whether you are looking for a feel-good novel to inspire you to explore your dreams; a novel to help you affirm that you are not alone; or something to help you sit down and open up a new line of communication with your significant other, SMAFU will change your life.
Excerpt:
“Before we made our first monthly payment, we had “christened” every room in the house just to find out which one was the best room to make love in. I think, if we could have gotten away with it, we probably would have set the bed up in the kitchen. It had the best access to both the coffee and the refrigerator. It really would have been a perfect setup. I suppose, in the new house, we’ll eventually “christen” our bedroom, but we’ll have to make sure the kids are in bed, the stereo is on to cover any noise, and the lights are turned off just in case our youngest decides to wander in. That’s assuming, of course, we both aren’t so tired we don’t just limit ourselves to hallway sex in the morning. You know, flipping each other off as we pass by heading towards the coffee, or back to the shower."
I loved this book and didn't want it to end!
Whether you are looking for a feel-good novel to inspire you to explore your dreams; a novel to help you affirm that you are not alone; or something to help you sit down and open up a new line of communication with your significant other, SMAFU will change your life.
Excerpt:
“Before we made our first monthly payment, we had “christened” every room in the house just to find out which one was the best room to make love in. I think, if we could have gotten away with it, we probably would have set the bed up in the kitchen. It had the best access to both the coffee and the refrigerator. It really would have been a perfect setup. I suppose, in the new house, we’ll eventually “christen” our bedroom, but we’ll have to make sure the kids are in bed, the stereo is on to cover any noise, and the lights are turned off just in case our youngest decides to wander in. That’s assuming, of course, we both aren’t so tired we don’t just limit ourselves to hallway sex in the morning. You know, flipping each other off as we pass by heading towards the coffee, or back to the shower."
I loved this book and didn't want it to end!
August 11, 2016
SMAFU is a story of love and relationships and the struggles that family life can bring. How it's too easy to just 'go with the flow' and the effects that this can bring.
Steven, Mary and their 3 children move into the house next door to the wonderful and wise Cherisse who won't even begin a conversation without a good cup of tea. Through the everyday happenings of married life I could really connect with the characters and the situations they faced. How I wish Cherisse lived next door to me.
What I found most interesting was my connection with Steven for the most part and how I wished I wasn't like Mary but perhaps because I see so many of her traits in me. Without wishing to spoil it for you I would just like to say how much I resonated with the story and how I will be taking a good look at my own life to check the state of our 'cans' and see if I can straighten out a few of the dents before they become fractured.
I didn't anticipate where the ending would take me so go on a journey with them and see where it takes you.
A wonderful book by Mr E M Bosso which has stayed with me. I will continue to hold these characters in my heart and remember the lessons when life is getting lost. This is book of gentle actions with far reaching consequences which I highly recommend.
Steven, Mary and their 3 children move into the house next door to the wonderful and wise Cherisse who won't even begin a conversation without a good cup of tea. Through the everyday happenings of married life I could really connect with the characters and the situations they faced. How I wish Cherisse lived next door to me.
What I found most interesting was my connection with Steven for the most part and how I wished I wasn't like Mary but perhaps because I see so many of her traits in me. Without wishing to spoil it for you I would just like to say how much I resonated with the story and how I will be taking a good look at my own life to check the state of our 'cans' and see if I can straighten out a few of the dents before they become fractured.
I didn't anticipate where the ending would take me so go on a journey with them and see where it takes you.
A wonderful book by Mr E M Bosso which has stayed with me. I will continue to hold these characters in my heart and remember the lessons when life is getting lost. This is book of gentle actions with far reaching consequences which I highly recommend.
September 9, 2016
Having been through a similarly unfortunate situation, I entered into reading SMAFU with a fairly fresh perspective on how quickly love can unravel and, indeed, become ‘All F$"d Up’. This unique romance/mainstream fiction/Marriage 101 story held enough humor to keep me smiling even when the situations were all too familiar; included enough steam to keep me reading; and held sagacious insights from a uniquely male perspective that helped me see things from the ‘other side of the coin’.
In spite of the fact that I am neither married nor have children, I learned a great deal about the dynamics of a relationship and appreciate the values Mr Bosso integrates so skillfully into an otherwise witty, and sometimes bitingly sarcastic, tale. Highly recommended for married or single readers, this story will touch anyone who is honest enough to connect with its entirely relatable characters.
In spite of the fact that I am neither married nor have children, I learned a great deal about the dynamics of a relationship and appreciate the values Mr Bosso integrates so skillfully into an otherwise witty, and sometimes bitingly sarcastic, tale. Highly recommended for married or single readers, this story will touch anyone who is honest enough to connect with its entirely relatable characters.
August 31, 2016
As a woman who has been married to a man like Steve for almost 20 years, I could relate to many of the situations through most of book, from both Mary and Steve's point of view. I would sometimes scold myself when I realized that I acted like Mary (or would say something like she said to Steve), and would think about my own husband's reactions when Steve would react to Mary's actions or words.
The book's honest, realistic dialogue and feelings from the characters are solid, and the ending was completely original, not at all what I expected.
We have so many choices in relationships, and in marriage specifically; sometimes our choices are simply how we choose to approach a situation or issue.
E. M. Bosso's perspective was fresh yet realistic and pragmatic. I highly recommend this novel.
The book's honest, realistic dialogue and feelings from the characters are solid, and the ending was completely original, not at all what I expected.
We have so many choices in relationships, and in marriage specifically; sometimes our choices are simply how we choose to approach a situation or issue.
E. M. Bosso's perspective was fresh yet realistic and pragmatic. I highly recommend this novel.
April 12, 2018
A story of hope and redemption...
Welcome to Steve and Mary’s rocky marriage—after three kids and years of built up resentment, something is gonna blow. And little do they know that moving to a new house is going to change their lives forever.
Enter Cherisse, an eccentric old lady chockfull of life experience and advice, and determined to show this couple the error of their ways.
This unpredictable, yet familiar tale, of marital woes will make you smile, laugh, possibly even cry. Written almost in the style of a personal diary, the story shares life lessons, the value of love, relationships, and most importantly perseverance.
While SMAFU isn’t typically the type of story I read, I enjoyed it and appreciated its message of hope and redemption.
Welcome to Steve and Mary’s rocky marriage—after three kids and years of built up resentment, something is gonna blow. And little do they know that moving to a new house is going to change their lives forever.
Enter Cherisse, an eccentric old lady chockfull of life experience and advice, and determined to show this couple the error of their ways.
This unpredictable, yet familiar tale, of marital woes will make you smile, laugh, possibly even cry. Written almost in the style of a personal diary, the story shares life lessons, the value of love, relationships, and most importantly perseverance.
While SMAFU isn’t typically the type of story I read, I enjoyed it and appreciated its message of hope and redemption.
September 25, 2016
I really enjoyed this novel but find it hard to put into a category, it is essentially a romance but not in the "hearts and flowers" sense. One of the main characters, Cherisse, it the modern day matchmaker for a couple in a troubled marriage. There were times I got cross and irate with the husband and then the wife but the whole way through the book I was rooting for them to make a go of it and do the right thing. Essentially you want them to be happy. This is a good read for anyone who is married, and has been for a while, as I found some very interesting messages though out the book! Great read and I will read more from the author.
September 26, 2016
As a woman in a 24 year old marriage to a guy i think is a bit like Steve I found a lot of this book very relatable. Well written with a good dose of humour. On the whole I found it to be full of great insight into the "other side" of a relationship. Not something we as women often get. There was an odd scenario or two that I thought, hmmm, I can't see my husband thinking/doing that but the book left me with a little bit of a different perspective on life and marriage. If only there was a place where you go go to find a Cherisse. Recommend this to anyone in a relationship or thinking of starting a relationship.
October 18, 2016
This book made me laugh, almost made me cry but probably more essentially, it made me think.
I loved the character of Cherisse as she attempts to coerce and bully Steve and Mary into waking up and saving their floundering marriage. She made me laugh out loud with her tall tales but I couldn't help but reflect on her words. She is just naughty enough for us not to mind her lessons and to find entertainment in her 'all knowing' lectures.
This was in some ways a morality tale for modern marriage where we try hard to have it all, do it all and forget the treasures that lay closest to us.
I loved the character of Cherisse as she attempts to coerce and bully Steve and Mary into waking up and saving their floundering marriage. She made me laugh out loud with her tall tales but I couldn't help but reflect on her words. She is just naughty enough for us not to mind her lessons and to find entertainment in her 'all knowing' lectures.
This was in some ways a morality tale for modern marriage where we try hard to have it all, do it all and forget the treasures that lay closest to us.
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