Helpful Score: 2
I really liked this book -- it felt different than a traditional romance novel, although I'm not really sure why. Still I definitely would recommend this book -- an easy enjoyable read.
Helpful Score: 2
A Mile in My Flip Flops
by Melody Carlson
My husband is a professional carpenter and I have helped him on many renovation projects throughout the years so when I saw this book by Melody Carlson I just had to read it. The plot of the book centers on Gretchen Hanover, a young woman who is reeling from a broken engagement. As solace for her broken heart, Gretchen has formed the habit of watching home improvement shows while eating ice cream. One day she decides to do more than just watch and the idea of flipping a house is born. She asks her retired contractor-father for help and he brings along his carpenter friend (who is single) and the fun begins.
Knowing something about the remodeling process added to my enjoyment of the story. I read about Gretchen getting in way over her head and wondered how she would work it all out. The tale was cute, funny and touching all in one nice package. I thoroughly enjoyed this story right from the very beginning all the way down to the satisfying ending.
I received this complimentary copy from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group through their Blogging for Books program. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.
by Melody Carlson
My husband is a professional carpenter and I have helped him on many renovation projects throughout the years so when I saw this book by Melody Carlson I just had to read it. The plot of the book centers on Gretchen Hanover, a young woman who is reeling from a broken engagement. As solace for her broken heart, Gretchen has formed the habit of watching home improvement shows while eating ice cream. One day she decides to do more than just watch and the idea of flipping a house is born. She asks her retired contractor-father for help and he brings along his carpenter friend (who is single) and the fun begins.
Knowing something about the remodeling process added to my enjoyment of the story. I read about Gretchen getting in way over her head and wondered how she would work it all out. The tale was cute, funny and touching all in one nice package. I thoroughly enjoyed this story right from the very beginning all the way down to the satisfying ending.
I received this complimentary copy from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group through their Blogging for Books program. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.
Helpful Score: 1
Quick fun read! Very timely with all the HGTV shows on now regarding flipping houses. A cute romance with a Christian tone to it.
Helpful Score: 1
I gave this 3 stars only because I finished it. To be honest I think I took the book too seriously and I believe if you like chick-lit then you'll like this. Lately I've found myself too critical to enjoy chick-lit much. The pros: started out totally identifying with the character..jerk fiance dumped her for his exgf..she liked to spend money and let things get cluttered (double check!), some humor..but the cons just got on my nerves - I actually began to think the fiance had the right idea! This woman binges on ice cream for 18 mths moaning over this ex-fiance..she maxed out her savings to buy material things for their soon to be home. She didn't listen to her friend and picked out a high energy chocolate lab mix puppy to keep crammed and yes I mean crammed in a dinky one-bedroom apt where he had no room to even wag his tail without knocking something over..then she decides to come out of her shell by flipping a house. At this point I don't know who's the stupidest - her or her father- for having him be responsible for a $500,000 loan that's due to be repaid in 6 weeks! also she refuses to even talk to his friend because he's divorced and 'already has baggage' - the baggage being his daughter(and this from a teacher) well luckily she likes the kid and treats her well thank goodness or I'd have tossed the book I think! But hey I can get over the baggage idea 'cause after all I've thought the same to myself but she's never flipped a house in her life. Also seems like everything physical she does she manages to screw it up because she doesn't ask! oh and she also maxes out 2 credit cards buying stuff to flip the house in addition to her budget.
anyways I'm glad others were able to stick with the humor but I had really hoped for more common sense from this character or at least some big changes by the end but I didn't see them.
anyways I'm glad others were able to stick with the humor but I had really hoped for more common sense from this character or at least some big changes by the end but I didn't see them.
Helpful Score: 1
The fact that the title has flip-flops in it (my shoe of choice from March till October!) made me very interested in reading it. This was a really cute book. Even though it was predictable I was still drawn into the story.
I liked Gretchen. I could see myself in her flip-flops - literally. I tend to get grandiose ideas, however I don't have as much follow through as she does. I can't even imagine going through purchasing a house on a whim to flip it. That's a little overwhelming to me... Even though I'd never do anything that substantial on a whim there were many things that she did throughout the book that I could see myself doing. I really connected with her and wanted everything to work out for her. She was. like many people, just coasting through life. The fact that she finally realized that if she wanted different results she would have to take the lead was what really made me connect with her.
The story was fun and quirky and I didn't want to put it down. I do think the ending was a bit rushed, but it was still a good ending. And like I said it was predictable, but it was well-written and kept my attention. After looking through Carlson's website there were a few other titles that stuck out to me and I think I'm going to have to pick them up!
I liked Gretchen. I could see myself in her flip-flops - literally. I tend to get grandiose ideas, however I don't have as much follow through as she does. I can't even imagine going through purchasing a house on a whim to flip it. That's a little overwhelming to me... Even though I'd never do anything that substantial on a whim there were many things that she did throughout the book that I could see myself doing. I really connected with her and wanted everything to work out for her. She was. like many people, just coasting through life. The fact that she finally realized that if she wanted different results she would have to take the lead was what really made me connect with her.
The story was fun and quirky and I didn't want to put it down. I do think the ending was a bit rushed, but it was still a good ending. And like I said it was predictable, but it was well-written and kept my attention. After looking through Carlson's website there were a few other titles that stuck out to me and I think I'm going to have to pick them up!
