The Chocolate Run - Dorothy Koomson

The chocolate run is one book that shall definitely appeal to chocolate lovers and chic lit readers  . The usage of chocolate as a metaphor for life and life's characters makes for a funny and highly imaginative read . Further the protagonist's addiction or maybe love for chocolate and her need for chocolate as an instant pacifier makes for a chocolate filled - thought provoking and coming of age novel of love , life and relationships.

Though not one of Koomson's best works , the Chocolate Run makes for a good read on a lazy day . I did not instantly take to this book as I did the rest of her works , but it sure makes a good read if one loves reading.

The story revolves around our choclate lover , Amber , who also runs for good health. She also runs from commitment . She has issues with her parents , which extend to all the relationships she enters . The story deals with her relationship with Jen , her best friend that she adores , Matt ; Jen's boyfriend and Greg. Greg who is playboy personified till his fling with Amber .Amber, a person who prefers chocolate to romance , and has a tough time dealing with life when her best mate wants to become boyfriend . The story makes for a funny and interesting read with the characters evolving with every chapter , Twists and mysteries poking at the perfect intervals . A spicy , quirky chic lit indeed.

Marshmallows for Breakfast - Dorothy Koomson

This being the first ever book i read of Dorothy Koomson , I took it from the shelf solely due to the cover . A woman and child and marshmallows. Definitely interesting. And trust me , the story got more interesting and involving as i turned the pages . I expected the book to contain a simple story with a happy ending. I was not prepared for it to make me think or feel for the characters . It is truly a book of love , hurt , healing and moving on . But thankfully does not make for a soppy read , instead the simple writing and evolving characters leave a mark by the end.

As is the set background in most of her novels , Koomson writes about a British African. Returning to UK from Australia is Kendra Tamale. Living in hurt from her past , she rents an apartment from a family that is pretty messed up. Try as does , she cannot help but get involved . She only seeks to gain peace and closure and to be left alone . And that is the last thing that she gets , thanks to the six year twins Jason and Summer . Living with only their dad , the twins take to Kendra like moths to light. But the mystery of their mother's departure is not as simple as they try to put it . The Gadsborough family adopts Kendra as their own , even though she's 'black' ; as noticed by the kids . Her apartment is the kids sanctuary . The kids company is her balm . And then there are the kids parents ; a dad who's beginning to open upto Kendra and a struggling to deal with his wife and life.

Though the cover suggests a soft theme and a light chic lit , the book is definitely a higher dose of thought provoking read . It makes one think and not just about the simple things in life .It is a book that deals with confronting oneself , finding closure and basically healing from hurt and moving on. Definitely a book that one can enjoy but not a light read for sure.

Suzzane's Diary For Nicholas - James Patterson

 James Patternson is basically a crime thriller writer and an amazing one at that . With this novel he has moved slightly away from crimes and has looked into the intense feelings of love. Undoubtedly a bestseller , the story stands true to its theme " For everyone who's loved and lost and learned to love again. "
           

 The story begins with Katie Wilkinson , a young woman living in her New York apartment , crying her heart out in a bathtub , a leather bound book in hand and her cat and dog as the only witnesses . She comes to a conclusion that the person , Matt mentioned in the book is her now ex . The same man who is Suzzane's husband and baby Nicholas's father in the book.

The novel alternates between Katie's present life and Suzzane's life as written in her book/diary . The diary contains Suzzane's love for her child and a description of  the love she shares with Matt  . And Katie's present leaves her in great shock , considering the circumstances that Matt has left her in .

The story comes to an ending ridden with a lot of suspense ; as to whether Matt shall be with Suzzane or Katie . But each page 's ending compelled me to turn to the next . James Patterson has yet again presented us fans with a brilliant literary treat of love and living .

What keeps this book apart from the million other love stories , is the simplicity in writing. The sheer portrayal of love in an ordinary manner that is given heavenly status . But at places , one may find the book corny due to innumerable references to love , but that's only when one is far from romance. It is realistic , practical and each page reminds us of where the simple pleasures in life lie . The underlying theme makes one wonder about one's priorities in life and the position of living , loving and happiness .

Definitely worth a read , even if your not a fan of romance.