A little too contrived for me. It kind of left me blank. 2024 read. ( )

I really hate to admit that I almost got tired of this book before I reached the end....yes, the author works hard to keep all the characters active.....but I kept thinking I had reached THE end, only to find another chapter!! Maybe a little bit too much preaching about the wonders of family, etc. Almost as if everything turns out to be a little TOOOO right...but then again, it's a novel and open to complete freedom on the part of the author. I'm afraid that I would have been.....disgusted....to buy a BLANK book...even with all the hype for the reason for its existence. Definitely a different take on some clever....and unusual problems that arose with being this particular writer, Pippa. ( )

Pippa can't seem to get that sophomore novel on the page and the pressure is getting to her. As well, she is trying to be the best mother and a supportive wife and keep things running in their household (since her husband is too busy with his art to be involved). Much of the book feels a bit tongue in cheek and I really enjoyed the comeuppance that occurs in the final parts of the novel. There is a very meta message going on with the actual book that Pippa sells - a completely blank book as her next novel. Overall a fun read. ( )

Thanks to Amazon Prime and Little A Publishing for a digital advance reader copy. All comments and opinions are my own.

This was a light, fun, entertaining read – a “mom-com.” I enjoyed the humor, the plot, the characters, and the “behind-the-scenes” peek into the world of publishing – not only the difficulties authors face to come up with book ideas, but also the marketing strategies, competitiveness, and the juggling of novel writing with life and family.

Another distinctive aspect I enjoyed was the Jewish cultural references. Reminded me of Sara Goodman Confino’s novels, especially “Don’t Forget to Write” or Lynda Cohen Loigman’s “The Matchmaker’s Gift.”

This is not “Literature,” and it doesn’t pretend to be. Sometimes delightful and feel-good chick-lit just hits the spot. If you’re looking for an engaging story featuring books and writing while navigating motherhood, marriage, and friendships – this is the book for you. ( )