Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Publisher: William Morrow / HarperCollins
Release Date: May 2004
ISBN: 0060520515
Awards:  
Format Reviewed: Hard Cover
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Genre: Fiction / Chick Lit (British/Irish related)
Reviewed: 2004
Reviewer: Robyn Glazer
Reviewer Notes:  
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The Other Side of the Story
By Marian Keyes


      Marian Keyes has done it again. Her newest book, “The Other Side of the Story,” is brilliant and savvy, with delightful characters. Alternating chapters tell the story of three women, each mired in their own problems.

     Gemma always wanted to be a published author but never had the courage to do anything about it. She is incensed to learn that her former best friend, Lily, who is guilty of stealing her man, has a book out, just waiting to be bought. Gemma's father decides to leave her mother after 35 years of marriage, and Gemma takes to writing stories to make herself feel better. Unbeknownst to Gemma, her friend sends them to JoJo Harvey, Lily's agent. The book is accepted and Gemma's life begins to take turns she never expected.

       JoJo Harvey is a successful literary agent who needs to make partner status in her firm. Unfortunately for her, she has what might be a liability. Normally having an affair with the managing partner is sure to get one ahead in these stories, but JoJo is honestly in love with Mark, as he is with her. Once things begin to get sticky at work, they must make decisions about their future, and the situation could turn ugly.

      Lily is thrilled that her book has been published and is thought to be a bestseller. She and Anton, now happier than ever, are looking for a house to live in with their beautiful daughter. However, these are the same things that worry Lily the most. She believes any moment everything will fall apart because of the way she and Anton got together. Will Lily's insecurity turn into a self fulfilling prophecy?

      I loved this book. The alternating chapters always left me wanting to know more about a particular character, but then I would be sucked into the next story. I expected to hate Lily, and it is a testament to the author’s skill that I ended up loving her, despite things she had done in the past to a character I already knew and liked. The Other Side of the Story is engaging and a great way to spend the afternoon.