I just have to say, "I can't do it, Captain!" This book is truly that bad. I simply cannot finish it. If my interest lies in hearing about fabulous fashion, I would much rather reach for Harper's Bazaar. And if I'm keen on learning about wonderful vacation homes, Architectural Digest is my go-to. But I just CAN NOT handle any more of Sykes' "characters". If this is what is considered "chick-lit", or as some authors of this genre like to call it, "chic-lit", then please count me out. It's just not for me. I'm looking for something more engaging, more interesting, and this book fails to deliver on all fronts. I'm disappointed and frustrated, and I'm ready to move on to something better.
While I thoroughly enjoyed "Bergdorf Blondes," this particular book presented a bit more of a challenge for me to engage with. It was indeed funny and well-written, as I discovered. However, I think the entire concept of marriage and divorce isn't something I can fully relate to at this point. The characters, too, seemed a little hard to believe. I have no doubt that there are individuals in the world like those portrayed, but the idea that they would all be concentrated in the same place struck me as rather far-fetched.
This book caught my attention solely because of the author, and I used it as a break from my Harry Potter reading. It was a light and enjoyable read, and if you're simply seeking a beach book or something cute and pleasant, this would be a great choice.
I am truly not a fan of translated novels. Usually, I prefer original Indonesian novels or original English novels. However, some time ago, I tried to buy and read this translated novel. And yes, I was disappointed.
I don't know where the problem lies. Whether it's in the story that is really not very interesting, or in the translation that is extremely stiff and not pleasant to read. I couldn't even finish 2 chapters! So sorry...
Maybe it's because the translator didn't do a good job in capturing the essence and flow of the original text. Or perhaps the story itself wasn't strong enough to begin with. Whatever the reason, this experience has only strengthened my preference for original works. I believe that reading an original novel allows you to fully appreciate the author's style, language, and creativity. While translated novels can give you access to a wider range of literature, they often fall short in terms of authenticity and quality.
Aku kasih 3.5 bintang. Ya ampun, aku selalu terhibur baca tulisan mbak Plum. Lucu, kocak, segar, sekaligus ada pesan sosialnya. Sejak baca Bergdorf Blondes, kayaknya aku udah cinta mati sama gaya penulisan mbak Plum. Mbak Plum oke banget deh :D
Aku suka banget twist di ending novel ini. Mbak Plum sukses mengaduk-aduk emosiku soal Sophia sekaligus bikin aku ngikik kesenengan baca ending-nya. Penyelesaian yang membahagiakan semua orang. Itu chic banget! (mulai ketularan Lauren) :))
The writer gave 3.5 stars. Oh my goodness, the writer is always entertained when reading Ms. Plum's writing. It's funny, hilarious, fresh, and at the same time, it has a social message. Ever since reading Bergdorf Blondes, it seems like the writer has fallen in love with Ms. Plum's writing style. Ms. Plum is really great :D
The writer really likes the twist in the ending of this novel. Ms. Plum successfully stirs up the writer's emotions about Sophia and at the same time makes the writer giggle with delight when reading the ending. A conclusion that makes everyone happy. That's so chic! (starting to be influenced by Lauren) :))