LISA MARIA TAKES OFF

Author: Susan Hubbard ISBN: 0373895178 4/2005 CHICK LIT Publisher: RED DRESS INK

With her boyfriend, the enigmatic McAllister, researching his latest book in London, and her thirtieth birthday fast approaching, what better opportunity to take off? But in London, the solid ground under Lisa Maria's heels gives way. McAllister has fallen under the influence of his bloodless editor, Lisa Maria's advice column is under legal attack and (worst of all) she's sprouted two gray hairs. Now, between fending off a crude rock star, impersonating a Brit and learning to strut in bamboo stilettos, Lisa Maria's feeling something she hasn't felt in a while: out of control—and more than a little heartsick. Ah, to be young(ish), jealous and exceptionally good at revenge. But how far should any woman go in the interest of romantic justice? Just ask Lisa Maria—a feisty American fighting for love in London.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

In this sequel to LISA MARIA’S GUIDE TO THE PERPLEXED, Lisa Maria, an advice columnist for her local newspaper, follows her boyfriend, McAllister, to London where he is researching and writing a book. When she arrives, she is dismayed at the changes in her beloved McAllister. He’s looking tidy, living in a tidy place and distracted by his attractive, snooty editor. All of Lisa Maria’s insecurities flare up again, leaving her to suspect McAllister of having an affair. On top of that, her column is under attack for giving some bad advice, forcing her publisher to temporarily cease printing her column. Just when Lisa Maria feels her life is in at rock bottom, new friends and a bit of luck turns everything around.

Not having read the first book, I was concerned that the story might be difficult to follow. Not so. Even though the book mentions events from the previous story, the reader can easily dive into the story and not miss anything. I found the character of Lisa Maria charming in her imperfections. Although the reader might wish Lisa Maria to handle her calamities differently, one can’t help but smile and laugh at her antics. While mostly an over-the-top character, Lisa Maria does show some humility when she finally admits her fault in her recent miseries. McAllister exemplifies a great deal of patience and acceptance of Lisa Maria and her foibles. He’s, as they say, a keeper.

While arriving at a satisfying conclusion, this story leaves room for more books about Lisa Maria and company. A fast-paced, humorous story, LISA MARIA TAKES OFF is a fine representative of the chick-lit genre.

Kendra Patterson