I have read quite a few books
this year…every time I finish a book, I’m like “I’m so gonna do a review on
this book”, but I simply move on to the next book lol!
Most of the books I have read
have been by Dorothy Koomson….in fact save for one book, I have read all her
books, even her most recent novel, The Rose Petal Beach.
However the focus is on one of
her older novels, The Chocolate Run, which I am currently re-reading (in a poor
attempt to curb my book spending habit):
The Gist
Amber Salpone and Greg
Walterson have been friends for 3 years….until one night they sleep with each
other. What starts off as a “friends with benefits” arrangement (well at least
for Amber) swiftly turns into something deeper which requires more commitment. In
the same time frame, Amber’s best friend Jen starts changing, but not for the
better.
Amber has never been one to
really confront issues head on; but with shocking truths revealed, she has no
choice but to deal with them.
What I think
I have actually read this book
a few times; partly because I’m a fast reader, but mostly because I enjoy it. This is a story that could easily happen in real life;
Do not be fooled by the title; in fact the references to chocolate and the
actual chocolate run are minor and incidental to main story of Amber and Greg.
I really felt that I could
relate to Amber; the novel is told from her perspective. I could understand her loyalty to her friends, her conflicts, her insecurities. I dare say that a couple of her thoughts parallel my own!
I particularly liked Greg, even though he is, what Amber described as an "absolute tosser". He was a womaniser; the type of guy that you're warned to stay away from, yet still end up sleeping with because not only is he hot, but more dangerously a charmer. While he is with Amber, you find that Greg is not just wanting to have sex with her, but wanting to be with her and I couldn't help but route root for him, even though his naughty past keeps rearing its head and threatens to destroy his relationship with Amber in its entirety. I love that he's willing to make it work with Amber, even though I understand her resistance. It does make me wonder whether I would go beyond the friend zone with one of my male friends....
Other minor characters include Jen (Amber's best friend), Matt (Greg's best friend), Amber's family (Mum, Dad2 and Eric her step-bro) and her work colleagues, Martha and Renee. They all contribute to complicating and supporting Amber's life, with some making more significant impact than others. The characters were complimentary to Amber, and given fair time in the novel. Having said that, I felt that the references to chocolate didn't add to Amber's story and were not really needed.
This book is definitely a step-up from her published debut novel the Cupid Effect.
Overall
Don’t be deceived by the title
of the book as the story involves the evolution and devolution of friendships,
secrets, lust, love and comedy. Top Chick Lit!
This sounds like a great book! Believe it or not I've saved this now in my diary to purchase!
ReplyDeleteThank You for the review! :)
Myra x
Alluring Style
She is such a great author! Have you read marshmallows for breakfast by her? or my best friends girl that is honestly one of my favourite books ever, you should read it!x
ReplyDeleteFeel free to check out my blog if you ever get the chance x x
www.momentsofbeautywars.blogspot.co.uk
Jess x x