I’ve actually enjoyed reading this more than the first book in the series. I feel like I could relate more with Angie’s story than Pia’s. It’s probably because it’s less incredulous than Pia’s histrionics and more focused on the romance this time. Aside from the still very much centered theme of BFF’s forever amongst the girls, we get to see more of the main character’s love interest. I loved Angie’s characterization because it’s very real and more likable. I’m not saying I don’t like Pia – obviously I do but Miss Burgess obviously made the other girls “less visible” here and I liked it.
If you’ve not read the first book, the series centers on five young female adults living in Brooklyn and their quest to find their own place in the world of adulthood. This second installment focuses on Angie, an aspiring fashion designer who’s BFF with Pia (from the first book) and at the age of 22 is still struggling to find a career that obviously involves fashion. Add all the drama about her parents’ divorce, her nasty “rich friends” and a bit of misunderstanding with the girls, love and chaos ensues that will ultimately leave a lesson or two to Angie and the girls.
“Never cry over anything that won’t cry over you”
I seriously loved Angie’s story. It was like a season taken from the “Gossip Girl” but somehow, more relatable. It’s like I could see Angie in me when I was young. The feeling of time suffocating you and the past trying to get the best of you at the same time. I was in that situation at one point in my life and I think being / acting crazy like Angie was the one approach I did to combat that feeling. I know it was immature but I think it’s safe to say the majority will agree with me – we learn from these crazy experiences and end up regretting a lot of things.
“Regret… it’ll kill you. Out of all the negative emotions, regret is the one that will get its claws into your soul.”
Back to the book, a few things ticked me off in it. The first one was Pia and Aidan’s relationship. I really don’t get it. Both are career-driven and madly in love with each other. No one wanted to sacrifice and I salute the author for that decision where Pia didn’t try to follow Aidan to California but I want a bit more progress from them at least. Jeez, I am so disappointed with Pia acting all crazy in this book and Aidan being a cockmonkey about leaving. I’m not even going to mention their reunion because I know something’s not pleasant about to happen in the next book. See, I’m not a big fan of long distance relationship.
Secondly, the whole thing about Stef was just easily dealt with. What’s up with that? Slap him and destroy his beloved Ferrari? Really? That’s it? Cmon’ gimme some good butt kicking here. I was totally rolling my eyes at this scene. And can I just say I do not like this “Bad Blood” theme going on with the girls where they end up becoming some sort of “Avenger” – it’s a bit immature in a book where they’re trying to show that they’re growing up. Uhm, no. Just no.
I am also disappointed with Jonah not getting much spotlight here because he’s such a lovely character during the first book. I guess, it’s a total goodbye for his character. *sigh*
And that ending. Ugh. Really? After that last kiss – the guy has to leave and that’s it??? I want more Sam in the third book!!!!
Aside from these little complaints / criticisms, I really did enjoy this book and I’m looking forward to reading the third installment. I’m hoping that it’ll Coco’s story next time. Julia and Maddy doesn’t interest me much at this point so I’m hoping that next book will convinced me to like them as much as the rest of the girls. To my girl friends’ do try this lovely series and maybe you can learn a thing or two from it. *wink*
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Published February 25th 2014 by St. Martin’s Griffin
About The Author
Gemma started writing anti-romantic comedies for girls who like chicklit that comforts and charms without the silly fluffy bits. She lives in Notting Hill in London, but grew up all over the place – mostly Hong Kong. She loves talking and writing, not necessarily in that order.
She also loves burgers, vodka, white-tipped Marlboro Lights, OK GO, Sixteen Candles, Lucky Jim, anything from Nora Ephron and Jilly Cooper, new wave music and clothes.
Email Gemma at gemma@gemmaburgess.com or get in touch with Sammie Rafique at Avon / Harper Collins, Laura Longrigg at MBA Literary Agents (London) or Jill Grinberg at Jill Grinberg Literary Management (New York).
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