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Can You Keep a Secret?
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Can You Keep a Secret?, by Sophie Kinsella "Buddy Read" (Start date: June 11th)
Susanne, when jack told Emma to tell everyone they were talking logistics I laughed so hard! And I was in the middle of the Harley-Davidson store LOL
CaroB's answers to Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 1 – 5 1. So… what is your impression of Emma Corrigan? Does she have spirit? She definitely has a fear of flying. Do you? Do you think she’ll eventually do something with her photography interest? BTW, do you have any clue what ‘multi-logistical formative alliances’ are? LOL! I think she's a little immature, but so very likeable in her blundering ways. She's definitely got spirit! I don't have a fear of flying, in fact I kinda like the moment of take-off and impact, the whole body is braced for it and there's always the thrill that I'm flying. Really not sure about Emma's photography course... and I'll take a guess that multi-logistical formative alliances would be newly created partnerships involving lots of resources... ? *shrugs*
2. Where do you think Emma and Connor’s relationship is going to go? She wants to laugh in the middle of sex? Uh… not good, right? She doesn’t want to use endearments and they don’t have the same interests. But, they are moving in together. I kept laughing through so much of this!! I think it's ok to laugh in the middle of sex, as long as you're both in the same silly mood. Surely not all sex should be serious, I'm all for FUN, lol! I feel sorry for her in a way... she doesn't seem to have much going for her in her life at the moment, and she's going out with someone who should be perfect for her, and so even though she doesn't feel any passion for him, she's going through the motions because she thinks she should. I know a lot fo people like that. She's going to have to cut ehr losses, but it sounds like there are a couple of her friends who could love a guy like Connor.
3. Connor works for the Research Department at Corporation. I didn’t catch if that is against company policy or not. Is it a good idea to have a relationship with someone at work? I thought he worked for a different company? Isn't he in marketing as well?
4. What is your impression of Lissy, Emma’s best friend and flat mate? She seems sweet. Maybe she and Connor should hook-up. How about the other flat mate, Jemima? Would you take her advice? Definitely didn't like Jemima, she sounds like a social-climbing bitch.
5. Oh, I definitely don’t like Kerry, Emma’s cousin! Why did Emma have to give up her room to her? She is petty, manipulative, and downright cruel. Do you agree? And Emma’s parents allowed this? Are they clueless? What of Nev, Kerry’s husband, and his teasing? I don't like Kerry at all! but mostly I'm angry at her parents for letting Emma be treated this way and perpetrating it themselves. Nev is a knob. In fact, Kerry is a knob too!
6. Will Emma’s Gramps help her in some way with the Panther Bars advertising? I hadn't thought about him helping with advertising, but I think he'll definitely help her find a place in her family when she seems so lost to the people she should be closest to.
7. Coworkers & Clients: What do you think about Artemis, the co-worker with the spider plant? Paul Fletcher, Emma’s boss? Have you ever had someone take your idea and claim it as their own, no matter how small? What did you do? How about Doug Hamilton, Marketing Director of Glen Oil, who told on Emma? What is his agenda? How about Katie, Emma’s friend from Personnel who spent the week-end painting her boyfriend’s cottage while he played golf… WTF? There are a lot of characters in this book; which co-workers stand out to you? Artermis and Paul are like work-clones of Kerry and Nev. Knobs. I like Katie, I think she's just as clueless in love as Emma. The rest seem to be being painted in a bad light so far...
8. Well, if you read the synopsis of the book before you started reading, you knew that the American Emma sat next to on the airplane was Jack Harper, founder of Panther Corporation. Do you think he is interested in Emma… romantically, I mean? BTW, have you ever spilled your guts to a complete stranger? I think he's amused by her at this stage, if there's any romantic interest, I'm thinking it'll come later in the book. Unfortunately, the filter between my brain and my mouth is often malfunctioning, so I do find myself saying things I regret, but never on the kind of scale that Emma did on the plane, that was verbal diohrrea!
@ Susanne:1. You poor thing! and what a kind man. So often men are uncomfortable with tears. Glad to hear you were able to work through it.
3. I think it's great that it works well for you, though IMO there are some personalities/couples who can make it work and others who can't. I'm in the latter category, unfortunately. My husband and I almost killed each other when he worked from home... for 9 years!! :-p
4. I couldn't agree more!! Well said.
5. I laughed when he made a point of letting her know he remembered her confessions! LOL, I was expecting a comment about the plant with the orange juice!
@ Susan:
1. Yes! All that doofus-likability.., lol, I wonder if there;s something in the name.
2. ditto
4. Lissy or Kate from work? the crochet girl? I get the feeling she'd be a "darling" lol
8. DITTO!!
@ Susanne#1 – Wow. That was really nice of that guy.
#3 – I think it very much depends upon the people involved. I’ve worked with people having inter-office affairs and some are very mature about it – adults, if you will. Others are very childish. Neat tht you and your fiancé ‘went for it’ - ☺
#4 – Very true; it’s not a game.
#5 – I would think her parents were more intelligent than that.
#8 – Interesting! I want to know if he is interested in her from the get go.
@ SusanGlad you are enjoying it. You are doing great for being on an iPhone.
#1 – I’ve pretty much outgrown my fear of flying; still, I don’t like turbulents. I didn’t read OD.
#2 – Good point. I think she is ‘settling’ too.
#5 – Yeah, I can’t figure the parents out.
#6 – Me too!
#7 – I might have when I was really, really young. Forget it after that.
#8 – Interesting. That is two of you that think that.
You were reading in the middle of a Harley-Davidson store? LOL!
@ CaroB#1 – Ah, CaroB! You kill me. Leave it to you to know what that means. I used to equate flying to sex… I was nervous as hell b/f it started, but once it did, I just went with the flow. LOL!
#2 – I like to laugh during sex too, as long as both parties are doing the laughing. I think you nailed Emma’s reasons for being with Conner.
#3 – Oh dear, I left the Panther out of that DQ. Yes, they work for the same company. I don’t think he’s in marketing. But, I’ve been wrong before!
#4 – LMAO! True.
#5 – Yeah, as I’ve said, I can’t get over the parents!
#6 – Oh, I like that.
#8 – Now see. That makes three of you. Hmmmm.
What do we know about Susan that her F&F don't know? **hee hee**
I'm reading at work *SHhhh* and trying so hard not to laugh.
OMG!!! the lift scene!!!! *chortle chortle*
1. I have no clue what that means either. I was finding her bit annoying but so funny.2. I think she needs to move on think she just finds him safe.
3. I'm not sure if he works for the same company either. It would be a bit awkward if they split up.
4. I like Lissy, I wondered if Emma's friend was going to get with Conner.
5. OMG I do not like her either and are her parents clueless, surely they can't think its ok to push there daughter away and let people make fun of her.
6. I'm hoping he'll say something to the family soon about the way Emma's treated. I didn't think of that but you could be right.
7. I don't like anyone she works with apart from the woman she's friends with.
8. I think they'll end up together. I wondered if she'd go and live on his ranch with him and take up her photography. Nope i'm quite shy especially with new people so keep talking to a minimum
CaroB wrote: "OMG!!! the lift scene!!!! *chortle chortle*"I want to read on so i know what you're talking about.
Susan (susayq) wrote: "Susanne, when jack told Emma to tell everyone they were talking logistics I laughed so hard! And I was in the middle of the Harley-Davidson store LOL"LMAO
Susanne wrote: "Great questions Lisa! Since I read this before I'll skip most of the forward-looking questions to avoid spoiling something without meaning to. 1. I think Emma is super cute but very insecure. I c..."
4. I totally agree, She doesn't seem to give out good advice, think she just wants a rich husband.
5. Exactly.
CaroB's Questions 6-109. What does it say about Emma that she can't even be herself with Aidan, the smoothie maker? I'm starting to lose a little bit of patience with Emma's habit of just going along with whatever she thinks people want to hear. I mean, can Connor really be blamed that he has no idea who Emma really is or what she actually likes?
10. Do you think Emma deserves a promotion, given what you know of her work ethic? What did you think of Jack's "observation" period at the marketing department? What was your favourite part? Do you think the fact Jack left a note on her desk was significant?
11. What was Lissy doing in her bedroom with Jean-Paul? Any chance that Lissy's Jean-Paul and Katie's Paul are the same guy? Do you think we all have secrets from those we're closest to?
12. I liked that Jack shared with Emma that he used to slack off work too, like he's trying to make her feel better that he knows so many of her secrets. I wish I'd had a Leopold file when I worked in an office! Have you ever had some code for slacking off? I actually had to hold back my giggles at work today with the watch and the Ken comment. She was almost so busted then! and then the "If he says ‘G spot’ I will die. I will die. I will die." What's been your favourite laugh-out-loud scene so far?
13. Jemima's date dress was another laugh-out-loud moment for me, but also illustrated just how obsessed she is with image and "capturing" a guy. What do you think may have led her to being so militant in her behaviour towards men? What's the most outrageous you've done or worn to impress a first date?
14. Wow, that second scene in the lift in chapter 10, Jack serves Emma some blunt home truths. Do you think she reacted too strongly? Do you think he was out fo line? Were you shocked at the break-up that night??? Do you think Emma should have done it differently? Now be honest: did you have to keep reading into chapter 11?
9. I think Emma tries to hard to ease everyone and that's why she goes along with whatever people say. It shows her immaturity. 10. NO! Emma does not deserve a promotion. Her work ethic stinks. I loved Jack observing! When he asked Emma what she thought was wrong with Artemis's plant I nearly choked I was laughing so hard!
11. I havent got a clue what they were doing. I do not think its the same guy; at least I hope not. I do think we all keep secrets. It's human nature.
12. I did like that he shared that info with Emma. Our code at work is that someone. Has to go to the bathroom. We have this one co-worker who always seems to need to go when we are on the playground. She leaves her kids with everyone else and disappears for about 20 minutes. LOL
13. I was cracking up at her in the dress. And when they asked what she'd do if he wanted to Dance LOL I don't know why jemima is that way. It's sad. I havent done anything nearly that outrageous for a first date :)
14. I don't think Emma reacted to strongly. And I don't think Jack was out of line... he knows a part of Emma that most people don't and I think he was onsidering them friends cause he knows those things about her. I was surprised Emma went home and broke up with Connor. As for the question about whether or not I kept reading - what do you think? Y'all know me well enough to be sure I did ;)
I have most of my reading done but will have to come back later this evening and answer all the questions...I was sooooooo busy yesterday I only got to spend about 10 mins here on GR last night right before bed. I am hoping I can catch up later on tonight.
Lisa Kay’s Answers to CaroB's Questions 6-10 9. What does it say about Emma that she can't even be herself with Aidan, the smoothie maker? I'm starting to lose a little bit of patience with Emma's habit of just going along with whatever she thinks people want to hear. I mean, can Connor really be blamed that he has no idea who Emma really is or what she actually likes?
No, Connor can’t be blamed. She has been holding a large part of herself back from him.
10. Do you think Emma deserves a promotion, given what you know of her work ethic? What did you think of Jack's "observation" period at the marketing department? What was your favourite part? Do you think the fact Jack left a note on her desk was significant?
No, not really. She is just not in the right spot. The note? Maybe.
11. What was Lissy doing in her bedroom with Jean-Paul? Any chance that Lissy's Jean-Paul and Katie's Paul are the same guy? Do you think we all have secrets from those we're closest to?
**gasp** O.M.G.! That could be! Yes, everyone has secrets.
12. I liked that Jack shared with Emma that he used to slack off work too, like he's trying to make her feel better that he knows so many of her secrets. I wish I'd had a Leopold file when I worked in an office! Have you ever had some code for slacking off? I actually had to hold back my giggles at work today with the watch and the Ken comment. She was almost so busted then! and then the "If he says ‘G spot’ I will die. I will die. I will die." What's been your favourite laugh-out-loud scene so far?
Yes, I like Jack also. Nope, no Leopold file, but I wish I did. Yes, loved the Ken slip. LOL!
13. Jemima's date dress was another laugh-out-loud moment for me, but also illustrated just how obsessed she is with image and "capturing" a guy. What do you think may have led her to being so militant in her behaviour towards men? What's the most outrageous you've done or worn to impress a first date?
I’ve been in dresses or outfits that I wished I hadn’t worn to certain functions/activities. Most of my problems have been with shoes! I don’t know what Jemima’s deal is; maybe she learned it from her mother. I know I studied really hard on a certain subject that I knew a guy was interested in so that I would sound like I knew the topic. Didn’t work. Well, it did work, but not long-term; once we got our rocks off the relationship was over.
14. Wow, that second scene in the lift in chapter 10, Jack serves Emma some blunt home truths. Do you think she reacted too strongly? Do you think he was out of line? Were you shocked at the break-up that night??? Do you think Emma should have done it differently? Now be honest: did you have to keep reading into chapter 11?
No. I think she just did her typical reaction. I was a little shocked, but she needed to do it. Maybe she could have/should have done it a little more gently. But, she needed to do it. Maybe that was the only way she could.
@ Susan#9 – I think you are right; Emma is a “people pleaser.”
#12 – We used to have a “code white” – which meant someone from administration was on the unit. I also used to work with someone who put her patients on the commode and then would take a break so she wouldn’t have to empty their sh!t. Such a b!tch.
@Lisa Kay I'm over here giggling about how the relationship was over after yall got your rocks off :) I wouldn't have thought to put it that way, but I've been there before too.
1. So far I am seeing Emma as being a push-over. She takes what is thrown at her.When she does try to stand up for herself she doesn't give 100% she just lets whomever push right over her. Although she does seem to have a little bit of sneakiness and spunk to her too. No, I don't have a fear of flying. I have been flying since I was seven so I tend to enjoy it. I don't know if she will ever do anything with her photography interest. I don't know what ‘multi-logistical formative alliances’ are but I tried to break it down into pieces and parts and come up with my own definition LOL Multi means many, several a few; logistics was a term I learned in statistics that means moving resources from the place of origination to their destination; formative means having the ability to take on a shape/form and an alliance is a cooperative agreement between 2 or more things such as people,states,nations,businesses etc So my guess would be Many products being moved from point A to point B and which will take some kind of form between 2 or more companies or possibly the products of 2 or more companies being created and moved to form one company? IDK LOL 2. I don't think their relationship is going any where. I think he likes the idea of being in a relatioship and is trying to do what he can to hold on to that relationship.Emma being the little push over that she is, is just going along with all his suggestions because she doesn't really want to intentionally rock the boat (if she knows how)
3. I didn't read anywhere that stated it was against company policy for the two of them to date. Personally, I don't really think employees should get into relationships with one another. 1) it could cause a conflict of interest 2) I think it is healthy to have that time away from your significant other. It is an escape and a means of having something that is your own even if it is just a JOB. Although, there are husband and wife teams that have businesses/joint practices together, but still I think everyone needs that time away from their spouse or SO.
4. Lissy is likeable. I think she should quit trying to hide things and open up and be herself. Jemima on the other hand should see a proctologist and get her head out of her azzzz and quit acting as if she is better than everyone else. No, I wouldn't take her advice. Living with someone doesn't mean you're not going to get the "rock" on your finger. I might consider her advice if she would have said something along the lines of I see that Connor is putting more into the relationship than what you are feeling, or do you love him if you don't then maybe you should think about it. But for the purose of getting a rock, heck no I wouldn't listen to her. I do think that living with someone isn't such a bad idea sometimes because you do get to see what it would be like if you were thinking about marriage.
5. PFFFTTTT...life is full of hard knocks that we all have to learn to deal with and death is one of them. Death isn't pleasant and it is extremely hard but it is something that we all experience with the help of family and friends. I don't think Emma should've had to give up her room and her parents definitely shouldn't have placed Kerry before their own child but definitely should have helped Kerry deal with her loss and gave her a normal life not one where she was placed on a pedestal. Kerry's achievements are probably what they had hoped for Emma, but still Emma is their child and they should love her for who she is NO MATTER WHAT!!! Nev is a jerk!!
6. I don't know how Gramps is going to fit into all this but I definitely think he will have a part some how, some way in helping/being there for Emma.
7. Artemis and Paul are despicable. She has a better than thou attitude towards Emma and Paul and his use of the F-bomb would force me to put him in his place rather quickly as I would not allow him to talk to me in that manner, especially not in the work environment. OH yeah, I have had others take credit for things that I have done and I let it be known to the right people that the ideas were mine. I believe in giving credit where credit is due. I'm not sure what Doug Hamiliton has up his sleeve at this point in time except maybe that was his excuse for not teaming up with Panther. IDK. Katie is trying to hard to find love or that special someone. If she would just give it time and quit aggressively looking it would happen when she least expected it. She is trying to fit in or trying to force them to fall for her by letting these men take advantage of her. I like Katie but I just want her to relax and quit trying so hard. Artemis and Paul can take a flying leap.
8. Yes, I think he does have a romantic interst in Emma especially after she told all her "secrets" to him. I wonder if he knew already who she was while they were on the plane and just didn't say anything lol. Especially with them coming from the same place at the same time makes me wonder if he didn't see her at Glen Oil and she didn't pay attention and notice him in the building or something to that effect. I haven't ever really spilled my guts to a complete stranger. I have talked to online friends but never really gave any great personal info or a lot of details about stuff until I had been talking to them for a really long time.
Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 11 – 16 15. Can you believe Connor announced to everyone that he and Emma broke up?!? Do you just put that off to his being drunk?
16. I have to admit, I laughed when Emma typed up the Leopold letter. Did you?
17. Hey! Jack asked her out! I thought you ladies said he wasn’t interested. Ha! You almost had me convinced. What do you think about him wanting to keep it secret? How long will that fly? Are they going out too soon after Emma & Connor’s break-up?
18. Was anything Jemima listed valid? BTW, have you ever pretended an interest in an activity or a hobby, only to find the interest or hobby more interesting than the man? (I have! LOL!)
19. Would you have snuck into Jemima’s wardrobe? The cellophane tape, the water glass, the car alarm. Did you laugh at this scene?
20. That lady at the restaurant was a nut! Have you ever been mistaken for someone else?
21. Whatever was wrong with Jack at the restaurant? For a while I was thinking he thought she had somehow revealed company secrets or something. Was Emma right to confront Jack in a public venue? If something like that happened to you, would you go home on your own? In the rain? Was Jack right in paying the bus like that? Was he ‘showboating’ or just ensuring her safety?
22. What do you think Connor will do now that he knows Emma is dating again?
23. Jack and Emma aren’t having much luck on dates. Comments? BTW, what did you think of the ‘snog’?
24. Whoa! What was with Connor at the picnic? Do you feel sorry for him?
25. What did you think of Katie’s date to the picnic?
@ Robin#1 – LMBO! Clever you!
#2 – Good point about him liking to be in a relationship.
#3 – I think some people can handle it and some can’t. I think some people need their space and time away and others don’t – especially when they share a common interest. Hopefully, they’ll find time away from each other elsewhere.
#5 – Okay… LOL! You sure nailed Nev. He reveals his attitude later.
#7 – I think you might be right about Doug. I agree about Artemis & Paul. LOL!
#8 – Oh. I hadn’t thought of Jack having seen Emma at Glen Oil. Hmmm…
Susan (susayq) wrote: "I'm over here giggling about how the relationship was over after yall got your rocks off :) I wouldn't have thought to put it that way, but I've been there before too."☺
Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 18-22 Taking the "spoiler" off!
26. Didn’t you just know Jack was eventually going to reveal about Kerry? Did he have the right to do that? Did you think it was going to blow up in his face? Man-oh-man! Finding out that Emma’s parents loaned her the money for her business makes me even more burned. Comments.
27. Were you surprised that Jack and Emma did the deed so soon? Will there be repercussions?
28. What do you think of Lizzy and Jean Paul’s secret?
29. Do you think Lissy had a point about asking if Jack had revealed anything about himself? Did you think Jack might have meant something else when he told Emma he was “gripped” when she opened her mouth on the airplane?
30. What in the hell is with Conner? LMBO! How can this author make me laugh at his pain?
31. O.M.G.! I would have died, if I was Emma and all my secrets were revealed on television. I could see Jack’s side, because he didn’t realize what he is doing. However, I ached for Emma and could see how she would Jump to the Big Conclusion. You?
32. LMBO! I was rolling on the floor over Lissy talking with Emma. Still, she is such a good friend. Comments.
32. What would you have said to all you co-workers who treated you like that?
33. Do you feel that Emma should or shouldn’t have accepted the flowers?
34. Good for Emma’s parents. No question here, just a statement.
9. I agree conner can't really be blamed as she seems to tell people what she thinks they like to hear.10. Erm no she doesn't deserve one but they do treat her a bit badly there.
11. Ooh I never thought of that. I really want to know what's going on.
12.Lol that whole scene made me laugh, i couldn't believe he said Ken out loud.
13. That was ridiculous I was just waiting for it to rip when she bent over.
14. I think she needed someone to be blunt with her coz she was already thinking it anyway. Think she just got angry as she knew he was true. Yep I read ahead.
13. I don't think he meant it but he could have warned her once he had as she thought they were keeping it quiet.14. Same here she really put some thought into it.
15. I didn't lol. Think its just because he's on a short timeline plus he thinks he knows her after the flight.
16.ha ha nope. I don't think anything Jemima says is valid.
17. ha ha no that was way to much effort, you'd think she had some treasure in there the way she was guarding it. Why doesn't she just put a lock on her door?
18. That was funny. Yes when I was at school a few people were convinced I was someone called Chantelle.
19. Think he was just making sure she was safe as it was his thought she had to take the bus. I kept thinking she'd done something and he's just found out or something. Yep I'd go home in the rain.
20. Think he'll start to realise she wasn't 100% happy and move on or try to.
@ Elishia#10 – They do treat her bad.
#12 – Yes, it was funny that he said Ken.
#14 – I totally agree.
Crap! I totally messed up the DQ #s… SORRY! Changed them.
#17/19 – LOL! If there was a lock on it, then they wouldn’t have been able to get into the wardrobe!
#19/21 – Yes, I thought he had just suspected her of something too. Glad I wasn’t alone.
Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 11 – 16 15. Can you believe Connor announced to everyone that he and Emma broke up?!? Do you just put that off to his being drunk? I'm going to sound like a bitch here, but I don't think Connor can use the whole "I was drunk and sad" excuse. Why on earth would you go to a work drink party just after you've been dumped and not think you might "let it slip". My impression of Connor is that he has an overwhelming desire to be the likeable guy, and he definitely wanted the sympathy vote from his co-workers.
16. I have to admit, I laughed when Emma typed up the Leopold letter. Did you? Yes, it was typical of her nervous over-analysing, but I kinda loved that about her, lol.
17. Hey! Jack asked her out! I thought you ladies said he wasn’t interested. Ha! You almost had me convinced. What do you think about him wanting to keep it secret? How long will that fly? Are they going out too soon after Emma & Connor’s break-up? I do wish they'd let a little more time lapse after she split from Connor, it seemed way too soon... I can't be blamed, Jack obviously has too good a poker face, I was sure he wasn't that into her at first. I don't blame him for wanting to keep it secret. Any office romance where there is an imbalance of power that major needs to be treated with care, especially in the first stages...
18. Was anything Jemima listed valid? BTW, have you ever pretended an interest in an activity or a hobby, only to find the interest or hobby more interesting than the man? (I have! LOL!) Jemima is a psycho! Yeah, I used to date a mechanic, in my late teens, and I pretended to be interested in cars (I couldn't even drive then!) just cos I used to like watching him work on them. *sighs* He had great hands...
19. Would you have snuck into Jemima’s wardrobe? The cellophane tape, the water glass, the car alarm. Did you laugh at this scene? I sure laughed, and I definitely would've snuck into her wardrobe! What a crack up!
20. That lady at the restaurant was a nut! Have you ever been mistaken for someone else? All the time when I lived in Sydney. Apparently I have a doppelganger that lives / works somewhere in North Sydney (a suburb) because even my mum and brother have gone up to her, mum in a cafe and then later in a supermarket, and my brother actually chased the bus she was on, when "I" ignored him tapping on the bus window!!! He called my mobile (cell) to ask me what my problem was and I was three suburbs away at a friends'. Weird!)
21. Whatever was wrong with Jack at the restaurant? For a while I was thinking he thought she had somehow revealed company secrets or something. Was Emma right to confront Jack in a public venue? If something like that happened to you, would you go home on your own? In the rain? Was Jack right in paying the bus like that? Was he ‘showboating’ or just ensuring her safety? His behaviour was so disappointing! I was really proud that she stood up to him like that! Especially after she's seemed to have gone along with everyone else. I think if she had left it until they were in private it would have lost it's effect, she did the right thing. I thought he was just ensuring her safety
22. What do you think Connor will do now that he knows Emma is dating again? I think he'll be hurt and then suspect that that was the real reason she dropped him.
23. Jack and Emma aren’t having much luck on dates. Comments? BTW, what did you think of the ‘snog’? It brought to mind all the stuffed up dates on the movie Hitch. Have you ladies seen that? LOVED the snog, so glad there's passion there!
24. Whoa! What was with Connor at the picnic? Do you feel sorry for him? I do and I don't. I can't say I wouldn't feel the same way in his shoes, but I'm not a big fan of his character, lol.
25. What did you think of Katie’s date to the picnic? So funny!!! But she's an odd duck like that! and yet... ewwwww! Cute but eww.
Gah, CaroB, you have me cracking up at your answers! Especially the car mechanic and his great hands ;)
lol, I remember him fondly :-p
Susan's Answers to Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 11 – 16 15. Can you believe Connor announced to everyone that he and Emma broke up?!? Do you just put that off to his being drunk? yes! He definitely wanted everyone's sympathy and since he was hurting, he wanted to make sure Emma looked like the bad guy.
16. I have to admit, I laughed when Emma typed up the Leopold letter. Did you? that was funny!
17. Hey! Jack asked her out! I thought you ladies said he wasn’t interested. Ha! You almost had me convinced. What do you think about him wanting to keep it secret? How long will that fly? Are they going out too soon after Emma & Connor’s break-up? I don't see them keeping it a secret for very long. I don't think it's too soon after Emma and Connor's break up...she didn't really love Connor, she loved the thought of being in love.
18. Was anything Jemima listed valid? BTW, have you ever pretended an interest in an activity or a hobby, only to find the interest or hobby more interesting than the man? (I have! LOL!) Jemima is a total whack! Nothing she listed is valid. Yes, I have pretended an interest in things for a man...in fact, I still do when Hubs attempts to take me fishing LOL
19. Would you have snuck into Jemima’s wardrobe? The cellophane tape, the water glass, the car alarm. Did you laugh at this scene? I did laugh at this scene and I probably would have snuck into her closet :)
20. That lady at the restaurant was a nut! Have you ever been mistaken for someone else? The woman at the restaurant cracked me up! When she was telling Jack that he was a jerk and Emma had a wonderful husband at home waiting for her was hilarious! I don't think I've ever been mistaken for someone else.
21. Whatever was wrong with Jack at the restaurant? For a while I was thinking he thought she had somehow revealed company secrets or something. Was Emma right to confront Jack in a public venue? If something like that happened to you, would you go home on your own? In the rain? Was Jack right in paying the bus like that? Was he ‘showboating’ or just ensuring her safety?I had no clue what was wrong with Jack. he's kind of mysterious. I was proud of Emma for confronting him. I figured she'd just ignore his horrible behavior. I think he was trying to make sure she was safe
22. What do you think Connor will do now that he knows Emma is dating again? be mad
23. Jack and Emma aren’t having much luck on dates. Comments? BTW, what did you think of the ‘snog’? I think it's kind of funny that their dates are tanking. That would so be my luck LOL They are hot together
24. Whoa! What was with Connor at the picnic? Do you feel sorry for him? I don't feel too sorry for him. He's being a little pyscho worrying about who's she's dating.
25. What did you think of Katie’s date to the picnic? Her date was a little odd LOL How did she not know it was an older people's lunch place?
@ CaroB#15 – You have a point, CaroB! And a good one. He definitely set himself up for the sympathy vote.
#16 – Oh, I like that way you describe her. ☺
#18 – LMBO! So, you loved his hands… interesting. LOL!
#20 – Wow. Soooooo weird! LOL!
#23 – Yes, I’ve seen that movie; funny!
@ Susan#15 – Yup.
#17 – Good point; she was in love with love.
#18 – LOL! Catch anything?
#21 – I agree; I applaud Emma for confronting Jack. I read one review that said Emma had no growth in this story and I have to totally disagree. I want to excuse them and say it was subtle, but really, it wasn’t was it? Her old self, before the airplane flight and revealing her secrets, would never have done that to any man.
CaroB wrote: "lol, I remember him fondly :-p"You kill me, CaroB!
Lisa Kay, other than a sunburn, I normally don't catch anything while I fish with Hubs since I bring a book LOL
Susan (susayq) wrote: "Lisa Kay, other than a sunburn, I normally don't catch anything while I fish with Hubs since I bring a book LOL"LOL!
Susan's Answer's to the next set of questions :)26. Didn’t you just know Jack was eventually going to reveal about Kerry? Did he have the right to do that? Did you think it was going to blow up in his face? Man-oh-man! Finding out that Emma’s parents loaned her the money for her business makes me even more burned. Comments.The whole Kerry situation makes me furious! I understand that they were concerned about her since she lost her mother, but really. To put her above their own daughter is a bit much. I was glad Jack called Kerry out on what she did to Emma and that it opened her parents eyes.
27. Were you surprised that Jack and Emma did the deed so soon? Will there be repercussions? I was a bit surprised. I don't think there'll be anything happening because of it.
28. What do you think of Lizzy and Jean Paul’s secret? I laughed! Dancing? LOL
29. Do you think Lissy had a point about asking if Jack had revealed anything about himself? Did you think Jack might have meant something else when he told Emma he was “gripped” when she opened her mouth on the airplane? I do think Lissy had a valid point and truthfully, Emma really doesn't know anything about Jack. I didn't think "gripped" meant he was taken with her like Emma thought. I would have asked for clarification on that word LOL
30. What in the hell is with Conner? LMBO! How can this author make me laugh at his pain? Conner was funny in his insecurities
31. O.M.G.! I would have died, if I was Emma and all my secrets were revealed on television. I could see Jack’s side, because he didn’t realize what he is doing. However, I ached for Emma and could see how she would Jump to the Big Conclusion. You? I honestly don't think Jack meant any harm by it. I think he was just talking about the normal, every day girl next door that he had fallen in love with, never expecting anyone to put 2 and 2 together and hook it up with Emma. But yes, I do see Emma's hurt. I don't know if I would have gone back to work and I can see how she would jump to the conclusion she did
32. LMBO! I was rolling on the floor over Lissy talking with Emma. Still, she is such a good friend. Comments.Yeah, Lissy worrying about turning Emma on was funny
32. What would you have said to all you co-workers who treated you like that? What I would have said is not repeatable here and would probably get me fired ;0)
33. Do you feel that Emma should or shouldn’t have accepted the flowers? sure, why not take the flowers. He spent the money not knowing where they stood.
34. Good for Emma’s parents. No question here, just a statement.Yes, I'm glad Emma's parents woke up and made a change. Too bad it took them this long.
@ Susan#26 – Yes, it really pushed my button, too, Susan.
#27 – I liked what this book did with the topic of secrets. Some were delicious to find out about, others where “WTH?” and others were O.M.G.
#31 – I don’t think Jack meant any harm by it either. Again, I really liked what the author did here, showing both sides; how/why Jack did it and yet still have Emma’s hurt valid/reasonable.
#32 – LOL!
I'll have to catch up with the questions later. Have family here so haven't had much time on here.
Understandable, Elishia. Enjoy!
Here's My set of questions. The girls and I are traveling again today...Mom has a computer so I should be able to check in regularly :)Susan's Questions for ch 23 - end
35. Have you ever planned to get revenge on an ex? Did you follow through? I admit, I'm a bit like Emma, waffling on whether I would want to know or just forget him.
36. Were you surprised Nick took credit for the coupon? What surprised me is that Emma called him out on it. Has that ever happened to you?
37. We learned Jack's secret, but it's not really his. What do you make of Jemima continuing on with her revenge plan after Emma asked her not to?
38. Was Jack justified in leaving Emma?
39. Jack came back! I laughed when he admited he doesn't like Panther Coloa. Comments.
40. Do you think they'll make it? Were you satisfied with the outcome for Connor? Jemima? Grandpa?
Lisa Kay’s Answers to Susan's Questions for Chapter 23 – End 35. Have you ever planned to get revenge on an ex? Did you follow through? I admit, I'm a bit like Emma, waffling on whether I would want to know or just forget him.
The only fantasies I had of revenge were of living a happy life – a really happy life, LOL! I’ve waffled in my life over situations like that, too.
36. Were you surprised Nick took credit for the coupon? What surprised me is that Emma called him out on it. Has that ever happened to you?
Oh, yes, it has happened to me. Much more so when I was a secretary.
37. We learned Jack's secret, but it's not really his. What do you make of Jemima continuing on with her revenge plan after Emma asked her not to?
You were right: she’s a wack-a-doodle.
38. Was Jack justified in leaving Emma?
Hmmmm…I would say, yes. He needed time to think.
39. Jack came back! I laughed when he admitted he doesn't like Panther Cola. Comments.
Yes, I’m glad he came back. Maybe just a tad more groveling, but not much. And the things he said were nice. Yes, I laughed over that too.
40. Do you think they'll make it? Were you satisfied with the outcome for Connor? Jemima? Grandpa?
Yes, I was satisfied. Yes, very happy over Conner. LOL! And Jemima & Grandpa.
Sorry I am a little behind getting my questions answered:( Things have been a little busy here at home with dr's appts, getting the swimming pool opened up, and other not planned events. I also started taking a new medicine this week that makes me (view spoiler) but I am going to try to catch up today LOL
CaroB's Questions 6-109. What does it say about Emma that she can't even be herself with Aidan, the smoothie maker? I'm starting to lose a little bit of patience with Emma's habit of just going along with whatever she thinks people want to hear. I mean, can Connor really be blamed that he has no idea who Emma really is or what she actually likes?
I think that she doesn't know how to handle any type of confrontation and doesn't like to so she just tells people what they want to hear to avoid hurting feelings and possible conflicts. But her reacting in this manner causes problems with Honesty should these individuals find out. No, Connor can't be blamed if Emma is going to avoid answering the questions honestly or having an adult discussion where it is ok to agree to disagree or state your honest feelings about something.
10. Do you think Emma deserves a promotion, given what you know of her work ethic? What did you think of Jack's "observation" period at the marketing department? What was your favourite part? Do you think the fact Jack left a note on her desk was significant?
No, I don't think she deserves a promotion because from what I can tell she doesn't really work. It's kinda like field day/fun day at elementary school for her when she goes to work. I haven't read any where yet where she actually works she just plays. Her work ethics really suck!!!I would never just leave my job and sneak out and go get coffee unless I was on break and was allowed to leave the premises.I thought it was quite comical when Jack was watching because he already knew all the shenanigans that she pulls.My favorite part was when Katie came to Emma's desk to let her know they needed to discuss "numbers" and I also liked the part where they were discussing books LOL Yes, Jack leaving the note was significant. I think that was the first clue that he was physically attracted to Emma.
11. What was Lissy doing in her bedroom with Jean-Paul? Any chance that Lissy's Jean-Paul and Katie's Paul are the same guy? Do you think we all have secrets from those we're closest to?
It was obvious they were having sex LOL If they were just discussing files or whatever that doesn't have to be done behind closed doors and normally wouldn't be done behind closed doors in a BEDROOM.The handling of papers and files don't cause random bumping noises. Yes, this could be the same Paul being that this book is a comedy and things like that often do happen in this genre. Everyone has secrets whether we want to believe it or not. There are just some things that we either just want to remember and cherish by ourself because the incident was that special to us or we simply are embarrassed or ashamed of what we have done and we can't tell anyone whether it be something good and fun that you enjoyed or something bad. I think a lot of our secrets tend to involve our "kinky" sides with our spouses or significant others that most people just don't want to share LOLOLOLOL
12. I liked that Jack shared with Emma that he used to slack off work too, like he's trying to make her feel better that he knows so many of her secrets. I wish I'd had a Leopold file when I worked in an office! Have you ever had some code for slacking off? I actually had to hold back my giggles at work today with the watch and the Ken comment. She was almost so busted then! and then the "If he says ‘G spot’ I will die. I will die. I will die." What's been your favourite laugh-out-loud scene so far?
No, I have never had a job where I could just slack off, except for one. The only reason I could slack off is because it was in a movie theatre and if the movie was running or we had no customers I was allowed to sit down and read or whatever. In some of the places I have worked we had little words that we would use for "inside jokes". Someone would say the word as someone passed by or whatever so we could all get a good little chuckle. So far the watch incident has been my favorite LOL scene.
13. Jemima's date dress was another laugh-out-loud moment for me, but also illustrated just how obsessed she is with image and "capturing" a guy. What do you think may have led her to being so militant in her behaviour towards men? What's the most outrageous you've done or worn to impress a first date?
I think she was brought up in the "upper class",if you will, and her mother has been her biggest influence on the do's and don'ts of attracting men.I think Jemima's has been raised that a woman is supposed to marry for money and high societal standings instead of "true love" and happiness. I don't think I ever really done anything special or worn anything special to impress a first date. One, I could never afford to buy special/new clothes I always had to make do with what I had(which usually came from the Goodwill or yard sales)LOL. I always just tried to be myself and if they didn't like it well that's what "THE BIRD" is for and I went on my merry little way LOL
14. Wow, that second scene in the lift in chapter 10, Jack serves Emma some blunt home truths. Do you think she reacted too strongly? Do you think he was out fo line? Were you shocked at the break-up that night??? Do you think Emma should have done it differently? Now be honest: did you have to keep reading into chapter 11?
I expected that kind of reaction from her. When others figure out you haven't been honest with how you feel or what you've done then the first reaction is DENIAL which is definitely what she did. No, he wasn't out of line. I think he realizes that noone has ever been that blunt with her so she just carries on and is allowed to behave this way.I think she needed someone to step-up to the plate and be that blunt with her to help her be a better stronger individual.No, I wasn't shocked over the break up because they were never really a couple in my eyes. They just didn't do the things that normal couples who are attracted to one another do,like the puppy love phase of the relationship etc...No I don't think she should have done it differently she didn't sugar coat anything she got right to the point the first open opportunity she had. No, I didn't have to keep reading into Chapter 11 LOL In a way this story/book is pretty predictable
@ Robin#9 – No, I don’t think you can blame Connor.
#10 – Like you said, It depends on if she was on a break when she went for coffee, and just how long that break was.
#11 – Did you read on, Robin? **hee hee* I guess you can make bumpy sounds w/o having sex. I would hope only my close friends would know my kinky side. Or maybe not, LOL!
#13 – That is what The Bird is for? LMBO! Too funny.
Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 11 – 16 15. Can you believe Connor announced to everyone that he and Emma broke up?!? Do you just put that off to his being drunk?
I don't think him being drunk had anything to do with it. Everyone thought they were the perfect couple and he wanted it known that Emma was the bad guy. He played the "give me sympathy" card very well.
16. I have to admit, I laughed when Emma typed up the Leopold letter. Did you?
Yes that was funny. At least she was smart enough to realize that she gets herself into some weird predicaments and was trying to cover the bases.It would have been just her luck to drop the empty folder and get caught at it LOL
17. Hey! Jack asked her out! I thought you ladies said he wasn’t interested. Ha! You almost had me convinced. What do you think about him wanting to keep it secret? How long will that fly? Are they going out too soon after Emma & Connor’s break-up?
I think I was the only one who said he was interested ☺. I kinda figured he would ask her to keep it a secret and wonder if he did that because he is the boss and he is dating the "under dog" in the office. Other employees can always say that he is showing favortism. But then again I am wondering if he is testing Emma to see if she can really keep a secret because at this point all he knows is her secrets LOL Being that Emma didn't have any really true feelings for Connor, no I don't think she is going out too soon although I think Connor would see it differently.
18. Was anything Jemima listed valid? BTW, have you ever pretended an interest in an activity or a hobby, only to find the interest or hobby more interesting than the man? (I have! LOL!)
No, I don't think anything she says is valid. What's the deal with not letting a man see what's in your purse??? I'm not hiding anything in my purse that he can't see. I'm not that stupid. I learned my lessons about that long ago when girls did keep "top secret" stuff in their purses. If a man has never seen a wallet, cosmetics, tampax & pads, ink pens, calendars and note pads, and other misc junk then he still has a lot to learn and I am not taking him on to teach and raise. In my younger days I probably did but can't think right now of a particular case. I will share this with you: My SO plays golf. I HATE GOLF LOL When we first met LMAO he asked me if I played golf and I told him HELL NO I don't play golf. I told him it is a shame to see grown men out in the grass chasing little white balls. I went on to say, me and my big mouth, that the only little white balls I would be chasing would be around the bedroom LMAO.
19. Would you have snuck into Jemima’s wardrobe? The cellophane tape, the water glass, the car alarm. Did you laugh at this scene?
Yep, I sure would've especially after she went through all the trouble with the tape etc. If she hadn't have done all that I probably wouldn't have.
20. That lady at the restaurant was a nut! Have you ever been mistaken for someone else?
Yep!!!I guess I have several twins back in my home town area. People used to call me all the time and say I saw you so and so. No, you didn't. My best friend was really bad about it and we have been best friends for 30 years LOLOLOL. She should know EXACTLY what I look like because EVERYONE says she and I look alike and could pass for sisters. We even had some teachers when we were in school who would get us confused and separate us in class so they could keep up with which one was which.
21. Whatever was wrong with Jack at the restaurant? For a while I was thinking he thought she had somehow revealed company secrets or something. Was Emma right to confront Jack in a public venue? If something like that happened to you, would you go home on your own? In the rain? Was Jack right in paying the bus like that? Was he ‘showboating’ or just ensuring her safety?
You know, I have been kinda leary of Jack. At first I thought he might be gay because he seems to have had a very intense personal relationship with Pete.They seemed to spend a lot of non-business quality time together. Maybe he is bi-sexual LOL I haven't finished the book yet and I have been avoiding reading/responding to everyone's questions because of the spoilers LOL. Therefore I am not sure what is going on with him. It may be business related or maybe he has a wife, a kid, IDK YET!!! LOL I think it was right for her.She is beginning to grow some balls and tell the truth at times about how she truly feels. Heck yeah, I would and have gone home from a date on my own. I have called someone to come and get me to take me home from a bad date. I have, just for spite, called male friends to come and get me just because I could and to prove a point LOL. IN a way I think it was for her safety and maybe to show that in some shape,form or fashion that he does care. I think he feels guilty about something but I don't know what.
22. What do you think Connor will do now that he knows Emma is dating again?
I think Connor is going to flip his lid a little. Connor really likes Emma but isn't "in love" with her. Connor likes the idea of being in a relationship and isn't willing to let her go just yet.
23. Jack and Emma aren’t having much luck on dates. Comments? BTW, what did you think of the ‘snog’?
It was pretty predictable that the dates were going to fall through and end up badly simply because of the story line and the genre of the book. It's helping to build up what is too come I think. Oh my, the "snog" lol Although it doesn't say so, but she may have gone home with some wet spots in her knickers. I wonder which style she prefers (view spoiler)
24. Whoa! What was with Connor at the picnic? Do you feel sorry for him?
No, I don't feel sorry for him. He needs to accept things as they are and get over it.
25. What did you think of Katie’s date to the picnic?
LOL to each his own. I can't really say a whole lotta because my second husband was a lot older than me. Although, at the time I met him he LOOKED younger than what he really was and he never told me his real age until after we had been dating a long long time and it was too late then. Some people are attracted to older/younger people.
Ok now I am off to read the next set of chapters since I am soooooooooooooo far behind LOL Hopefully I will get done with the book today. Sorry I wasn't able to keep up with everyone just some unexpected things happened on my first BR that I was so excited about :( BUMMER!!!!
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1. No fear of flying here. Which surprises my Hubs since I am scared of heights and bridges. In fact, we went look at boats yesterday and I panicked coming down the steps off of one...keep in mind, we were in a showroom LOL I have no clue what multi-logistical formal alliances are :) I like Emma; she sort if reminds me of Emma in One Day by David Nichols.
2. I don't see Emma and Connor's relationship going in the right direction. I think she's settling.
3. Personally, I don't think it's a good idea to date someone you work with. Not sure if it's against their company policy.
4. Yes, Lissy and Connor should hook up. In fact, I got the Impression she kind of likes him. As for jemima, I don't care for her.
5. Nope, don't like Kerry. Nor the parents. What kind of parents allow that? Nev, I think he's harmless.
6. I do think Gramps will help her out some way.
7. There are a lot of coworkers. I like Katie. But geez, she spent the weekend painting for him while he played golf. I wouldn't have.
8. At this point, I don't think he's interested in Emma romantically. That may change. I've never spilled my guts to a stranger before, but I have revealEd things to my online friends that I wouldn't tell my RL friends or Hubs.