Just by looking at the cover, this book already promises loads of surprises, adventure and a hint of comedy. It's one of the reasons why I signed up for this one. I got this from Netgalley.
The blurb starts with--Office worker Charlotte steps out of a movie theatre and into a heap of trouble. That exactly summarized the essence of the whole book. And just by the first chapter alone, I know that I have done a good job of choosing this book. This is like Alias in a lot of ways. I had fun reading this book and was rooting for Charlotte the whole time.
This is a really fascinating read which I think the cover does not really do justice to it. The contents of this book is way way more awesome than the cover has ever let on. Classic don't judge the book by it's cover example. I have been always drawn to cartoony or animated or art work covers with no real people in them. It's also one of the reasons why this book got my eye. And I often associate covers like this book to fun or humor. So, I thought this book might be like a funny secret about Charlotte Dodd but it turns out the secret life of Charlotte isn't funny at all. It's far from funny. It's the most serious business that could ever be and it seems like a lot of people are in it except Charlotte. So, personally, though the cover is attention-grabbing, I think it should have been more because the story is just so fabulous and exciting that the cover I think is not really aligned. But then again, it got my attention and I decided to read this book so it has done its job. I have actually seen another cover of this book with a real person in and I think it's not as appealing as the cartoony one. I'd prefer this cover over the other one. So, I think it was actually a good decision to have switched to the cartoony cover.
As I have said, this is like Alias or maybe Dark Angel in intensity and with the kickass heroine in it. I definitely look forward to reading the next book. And I just love that Charlotte has four very protective and badass brothers. I really enjoyed the story because this book speaks of women empowerment. Charlotte is a grand player in a world dominated by men and she exceeds them all in more ways. She is the best and she represents a lot of empowered and strong women in the world who excels in any male-dominated aspect whether it be in business, career, military, government and so on. And there is just this unique quality that is only found in women which makes us really formidable foes and allies. And Charlotte just proved that one. Either you stand with her or against her. And if you are not on her side, better run and hide because she will surely do more than break your bones.
This is tagged as a chick lit but this is not like any other chick lit at all. It's packed with testosterone with the abundance of very handsome, dashing and deadly male characters in this story. In fact, there are just about four female characters, including Charlotte in here. This is not exactly a full-on romance story but as always with all stories, we couldn't leave that out also. But the main focus is not so much on the love life of Charlotte's character but rather on the other side of her personality which is actually her real self. You'll end up wanting to have Charlotte as your best friend after reading this story. Or maybe wishing to be Charlotte, like I did.
With that said, I give this book 5/5 pistols. With all the secret and surprises this book is keeping, you will never be satisfied. Even after all the revelations and well-constructed background stories and history of the characters, you will keep wanting for more. More adventures and dangers with Charlotte. More glimpses and inside stories about his brothers. Just more. Definitely, Holly Kerr has a spot in my favorite authors' list. Two more books to go and she will likely end up there.
Sometimes the first step to forgiveness is understanding the other person is a complete idiot.
- Holly Kerr, The Secret Life of Charlotte Dodd -
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