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Cheryl Mowery
26 days ago
This is my first time on book club . Now I am exciting to start reading this story and hear from everyone thoughts.
Same! I downloaded the book without even reading the description because I thought an online book discussion would be fun. When I realized it was a romance I was worried but I really enjoyed the book!!
I agree. The romance was what I picked the book for, so I knew it would be like that. I do enjoy how different authors write the hardships that couples go through.
I felt it was good but predictable too. The twist of his secrets were silly instead of a welcome change or surprising. I wish it had chosen to just to be a romantic novel because their love story was a lot more interesting to me.
It was a little predictable in that of course they ended up together, but I liked the way Meg had to learn how to fight instead of run away. Just that part was worth the read for me
Well, it says it’s a love story on the cover, so you know it’s going to end in “happily ever after.” That’s part of the definition of the genre, right?
Hi Wendy, this is my first time with an Online Book club. I, too, am interested in how it works. I have visited New York City, and so the apt and detailed descriptions put me right there. I would not have selected a Romance. I can go with the flow, though.
Most of the librarian picks are really not worth reading. This was a lightweight book was pleasant. Nice to read these types of books in a time of few entertainment choices, I thought.
This is my first time in an online book club. Such a fun idea! I visited New York a few years ago and it was fun to read about someplace I had visited. I personally am not a fan of big cities but reading this book made me want to go back to NY and give it another try!
Maya
25 days ago
great! I hope someone else will read it too!
June
25 days ago
I love the quotes at the beginning, every time my daughter has a problem I read her a quote
Liz B.
25 days ago
I just finished reading. At first I had trouble following along but I grew to love how chaotically beautiful this truly was. It was an amazing book with terrific characters. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a fluffy stand-alone that makes you want to curl up and read over and over again.
I loved the characters, the city, her career, the food, The walks through Brooklyn, the signs, the descriptiveness of the signs, the mystery & the romance.
I agree also Liz. Had a snowy few days here and I couldn’t have asked for a better book to sit by the fire with a cup of tea…but not one tasting like the bottom a flower box.
Yes, an illustrated book! I kept trying to imagine what her lettering looked like. The concept of having things hand lettered is foreign to me, one I’d probably never do – but intriguing nonetheless.
Hello Liz,
I loved this book and how it kept my attention. It was wonderful to follow along with their journey in the city. Just like it says, “a great quarantine read!”
Marie
25 days ago
Hi, I just finished this book and it’s my first online book discussion. I really enjoyed Love Lettering. This book is fast paced and whimsical. I really couldn’t put it down.
Hi Marie, I am with you. My first online book discussion. COVID has made me desperate, as there are no Book Clubs meeting now. It took me awhile to get into it. I enjoyed her dry sense of humor in her own thoughts. Especially “Espresso is a defibrillator in a cup.”
Hello Marie,
My first online book club as well. It didn’t take me long to get into this book and not put it down. I do wish it would’ve ended differently.
I never felt that way when reading the eBook. I’m interested to know how reading would compare to listening, bc I never picked up on her being whiny and I wonder if this could have been influenced by the voice actor. I never thought it dragged, either. I appreciated the ensemble of characters and how there were so many relationships at play, but I will admit at times I wanted the story to get back to Meg and Reid!!
I like books that take me to a place I’ve never been. I particularly enjoyed finding myself in New York City and following the lives of people so different from those in my circle. At first I didn’t like Meg but came to enjoy being in her company. Thanks
I also wonder if some of the letter and signage description could have gotten lost without some of the visuals provided in the text. I can see how that may have seemed wordy when, like me, you don’t recognize many fonts by name.
Karen
24 days ago
I listened to the audiobook of the novel. I really enjoyed it. The story line kept my interest, it was not predictable and had many twists and turns until the very end.
I listened to the audiobook. I liked the narration and the storyline.
Stefanie
24 days ago
I just finished reading it. It was a sweet story, and enjoyable to read. I liked that the characters weren’t perfect. Their flaws and challenges seemed more “real life”, past disappointments, financial concerns, poor decisions. But… still a happy ending, which maybe isn’t always “real life” but is anyway my favorite ending!
I do agree. I am used to books that are so overly done that they lose sight of real life. This book was easier to relate to but still allowed you to get lost in the story.
Stefanie, Yes, her style was real life. I could not relate to the best friend scenario, but a new love interest I could. I was a roommate, and although we were close and supportive, we were not life line close. My roommates and I were not college graduates. So, we were very independent to begin with. You fly the nest and make the best of it.
Yes! I liked how I felt like I could relate more to her current concerns and problems. I think that’s part of the reason I enjoyed the book so much!
Cheryl Mowery
24 days ago
Hello . I am enjoying the book. Although I am balancing so much . I am only on Chapter 2 where Meg and Reid meet in the store. Reid mention about the bulletin that has the message of getting married will be mistake and he ended up with a divorce. Is there anyone else who has started the book recently? I really like the book and plan to take more time on reading it .
Cheryl, you misread. It was Wedding Invitations and Stationary related to same, and he broke the engagement. He did not marry Ashley (I think her name was). He did not divorce. Slow down and enjoy the read. The message was Mistake. Both he and Ashley realized it was a mistake. I think he came to the shop because he was curious about how did Meg know. When in fact, she did not do it on purpose, but may have intuitively. Even if one intuited, one does not butt in. It is not marriage counseling. So Meg was in hot water… Read more »
Hi Cheryl, I love the Libby app my Local library offers. I read early in the morning before my mind gets busy with work and life obligations. Nice to have “me time”. I appreciate the talents of authors who bring respite from the pandemic. I visited NYC several times, especially when my daughter went to school in Manhattan. It was nice how several acquaintances in this book connected as friends and life partners. We can learn new words by reading and see the world differently as well. I was glued to this book!
Yes, Libby is an amazing resource. So many good library books to choose from. I enjoy reading on my Kindle. Although, I am old fashioned and miss having a book in my hands and turning the pages. It was definitely a welcomed distraction with the pandemic and even more so for me, because I had to make the hardest decision of my life on Tuesday, to let me cat go. Thank goodness for books!
I agree- I love paper books! But it’s been nice being able to read books on my phone too, especially when it’s slow at work and I can squeeze a chapter in. I’ve never used Libby but I really like Overdrive which is where I read this book and I can join the book discussion right from that app!
I’m so sorry about your cat! Sending good thoughts your way!
When reading anything, it is always a good habit to stop when you come to a word you cannot define yourself. Look it up, and savor the definitions. The books will become more interesting to you… and yes, as Mary said, slow down and take time with your books.
I started reading this book because it was advertised by my library and I thought it would be fun to read it and join the discussions. At first it was hard to get into but I kept reading and I’m glad I did. Once you get over the wordy beginning you will connect to the characters and enjoy the book. Didn’t expect Reid’s storyline but a nice twist.
Thanks for sharing this, I was pretty bored in the middle of chapter 3 and wanted to put it in the did-not-complete pile. I might give it a couple more chapters though. I just find I often want to grab the main character and scream “get to the point!”
I chose this book for the same reason as Sonia, and I also found it a slow start. I ended up loving the book – I liked the love story, the grow of the lessons Meg learned about herself, and the lessons of the story itself, e.g. fight to stay.
I thought it was just me. I was tired when I started and must have dozed off the first time but I set it back to the beginning and really listened and it made more sense. Maybe a bit wordy. I thought the Sibby storyline had an interesting twist too.
The Sibby storyline definitely was a twist for me! I was expecting the reason she had grown distant to be about her boyfriend or something like that. Definitely didn’t see the jealousy part coming!
Sho
24 days ago
I would rate it 3.5. Enjoyable, interesting characters. Their initial connection seemed a bit abrupt, but after that it was nice. I loved that one of the main characters is a mathematician. The book dragged a bit in the middle, in my opinion, and was not funny (certainly not laugh out loud), but still, a sweet, quick read.
I felt the same way. It was fine for a light, easy read, but some parts made me roll my eyes (super random and quickly glossed over mention of her having trouble achieving orgasms so obviously he’s immediately going to get her there) and the pretty regular unnecessary use of past perfect tense took me out of the story. I know that one is petty though! I totally agree that their connection was abrupt. There was nothing in their initial (or I guess technical their second) meeting that led me to believe that she would realistically invite him on her… Read more »
Yes, totally agree with your comments. I was a little skeptical that she would invite him on her new walking venture and why in the world would such a buttoned up guy agree?
Mandi, this was a reversal with girl asking boy. We do not usually get this insight. It may have been awkward for them both. And, it continues in their relationship. In the sex and in the games. Even at the end she is writing him love notes. She not only owns her own business, she owns this relationship. He wrestles it back from her, but she appears to be in the drivers seat.
I agree that the initial start up of the relationship seemed unnatural. At the end of the book it seems to be explained that Reid was told to go out with her (by basically a stranger he was working with?) but also he found her attractive. I guess part of it could be explained by Reid’s personality but it did mean that it took me a little longer to get into their relationship. I did feel like after that point it seemed to be more natural though. But the orgasm conversation was very cringe-y. I think it could have been… Read more »
I also really like that the book explored her relationships with other people, as well. That it wasn’t just about Meg and Reid. I’m not a big fan of romance books and I think that helped the book be more enjoyable for me! It didn’t always feel like I was reading a romance book which is what I need in a romance book.
Sho, right. I was surprised when this book was referred to as a comedy! This book was more about relationships. Good character development, even the minor characters. I feel they stood out even more, against the backdrop of teeming masses of the city.
I agree with you… I would also rate it about a 3.5 … the book was cute… and once I was half way through it I wasn’t sure there was much more to it.. it dragged a little bit in the middle but I was pleasantly surprised at the end.
I felt very similar to those in this thread! Would any of you have a recommendation for a book similar to this to read next (quick, light hearted, some romance)?
I liked this well enough—especially the typography theme—but probably not a favorite selection for me. For a better read, try Well Met by Jen DeLuca. I really enjoyed it.
Totally agree. It was a fun, fast read, but nothing special. It was nice to have different themes of letters and numbers, but seemed a bit of an odd connection…out of the blue. I did not need the play-by-plays of their sex life. It was gratuitous. Found it odd that she harbored this secret of her parents into another state…no one would even care about that…and he was very weird with Avery the night before the drama. They were so direct with each other in some ways and so secretive in others….not a bad book, but not great either!
I loved this book.Meg’s attachment to letters is like an etymologist’s attachment to words and as Reid’s is to numbers. Loved these characters. I loved how Clayborn organically worked characters’ traits into the story instead of the usual opening outlines of each character. I loved the games that Meg and Reid played to get to know the city. My favorite part is the concept of learning how to fight, “Fighting isn’t about leaving.”
I agree, Wendy! It’s important to understand that conflict, while it can be painful, helps us grow. I think the author did a good job of illustrating that.
Wendy, I was impressed with that section too. I had not though of conflict, fighting, calling someone on the carpet, as a positive experience with a positive outcome! Yet, recently I have become aware of how not having a fight, a breakup fight, prevented closure, and kept me stuck in an emotional, loyal, trap for….you would not believe for how long.
Good observation, I can relate to Meg in that I also tend to avoid confrontation.
Tunesia
24 days ago
First time to join a book club, I am happy to see everyone thoughts.
Kristin
24 days ago
I thought it was a super cute, easy read. And fitting as I had just yesterday gone into a stationery store and then saw the email to read the book afterward. I love journals and paper products and New York (when I visit) so it was a great combo of things that I already like. I finished it in just a couple hours.
Mana
23 days ago
I thought it was a good book. I really liked seeing from her artistic ‘letter’ view.
Keiran
23 days ago
Its awsome
Esther
23 days ago
Hi
Audree grundler
23 days ago
this book was good and if anyone want some suggestions for books to read im open
I’m struggling with this one too. I’m listening to the audio book and it feels very wordy at the start. Going to try to stick with it. Never been in a book club so like you, thought I would give it a try. Will be neat to hear what others think of this story.
MLG Doge
23 days ago
I really liked this book! Maybe we could have more of these soon
Estelle O
23 days ago
I thought it was a fun quick passed easy read
NNM
23 days ago
I wanted to try this book club, but went into this book thinking it was going to be your usual, sappy romance. The book was surprisingly much better than I expected! I definitely didn’t expect some things (I prefer a book to be not too predictable) and I liked that the reader could watch their friendship develop through the book. Their backstories added a nice layer to the characters that you don’t usually see in a romance novel. Of course there was some cheesiness that I would have not preferred (swoonsh also drove me a little crazy by the end),… Read more »
My thoughts exactly! I am not really a fan of romances and really enjoyed that it didn’t always feel like a romance. I really enjoyed the whole Meg-Sibby storyline too, as well as her relationships with her friends from the store. I enjoyed the book a lot more than I thought I would when I realized it was a romance!
Also, you’re not the only one who was not a fan of the swoonsh’s. The first couple times I thought it was cute. But it got to be a bit much after awhile!
Pamela Williams
23 days ago
I was really impressed by the storyline. I tend to like romance novels that have a mystery/detective theme, but this plot was very interesting and kept my attention.
natali
23 days ago
this book was ok, however I was bored throughout and debated whether to finish it. also her internal monologue was long in between other dialogues, and the fbi thing sort of came out of nowhere.
Janice
23 days ago
I read most of the book but did not finish. Sex scenes are not my thing at all. A bit surprised this salacious book is being used for a big read.
As far as the genre, I think the scenes weren’t especially detailed, but I completely agree that they didn’t fit the tone of this book. I skimmed them because I wasn’t expecting them and found I wasn’t ever interested when they came up.
D.Warren
23 days ago
Overall, I liked it. I appreciate the way the author made the male lead, not so perfect.
Cheryl Mowery
23 days ago
The story is interesting but Meg seems paranoid. Now Meg’s best friend will be moving out of the apartment and she seems nervous living alone. Does Meg change by becoming more confident knowing Reid ?
i am having an issue with all the thoughts before the actual conversation between meg and reid, and meg and her room mate. she goes on for pages before actually speaking. way too much, i will try and finish and hopefully gets better.
Finished in 2 days. Well written, cute story. I liked how meg overcoming her creative block served two-fold. It was symbolic in her communication and openness becoming better too.
Nikki
23 days ago
I’m only about a quarter of the way in, but if she was “sans serif” one more time I might cry. There are lots of other fonts.
I think she was using it as a leitmotif for Reid. Perhaps it would seem less repetitious if she also used fonts to describe other characters. Or maybe it would be even more annoying?
Sans Serif does not refer to a specific typeface, but the entire family of typefaces that do not have serifs. (The little flair on the ends of each letter) The author is telling us there is nothing superfluous about him. He is direct, with nothing decorative added.
Kim
23 days ago
Love Lettering was a very beautiful story . I adored it .
Theresa Snipe
23 days ago
I liked the book. I liked the idea of the hidden messages in Megs writing. I liked the friendships she had and developed. The older I get the more I realize how important friendships are. I enjoyed the expression of sexuality involved. It seemed real and included consented and condoms.
Meg was vulnerable for various reasons but was able to rise above with the help of love ( I know, pretty corny) and support from her friends, employer and Reid.
Reid was a little too prefect in my opinion but the sex scenes were good.
Renee
23 days ago
Hi from Weymouth Ma!! I am just saw this what a wonderful idea!!! Starting the book this morning looking forward to sharing
Renee
23 days ago
Just posted – but had my email incorrect
Mary Moore
22 days ago
Just started. I’m intrigued.
Poppy
22 days ago
I’ve been looking for a book club and am hoping this is a good fit. I just discovered the club today so I have not started the book as of yet. It’s an unusual choice for me . I’m looking forward to reaching out of my comfort zone and also to thoughtful and interesting conversations.
Cheryl Mowery
22 days ago
In Chapter 3 and 4 I liked reading about Meg and Reid first meeting while being in the park. They were sharing their different idea .
This is my first time too! Check my post and reply. I can’t wait to hear from all of you!
Rae
22 days ago
My first time participating in an on line book club. I just got the book and am looking forward to begin reading and sharing my thoughts! It’s cold and snowy so a great time to begin a new read.
Kelli
22 days ago
This is also my first time in a library book club. I have always wanted to join a book club. Im listening by audiobook. I am intrigued ~ however~ listening by audio is a just slightly difficult to discern when Meg is in ‘her head talking’ versus talking aloud to Reid, but overall with a few rewinds I’m doing okay. I think is quite interesting the how Clayborn developed both characters with almost a Hyperlexia Autism feel. As a teacher of some children with this unique perspective it is refreshing to see it befitting in a storyline.
Sarah
22 days ago
I finished this book today. It was a good read. But the way the characters were described I have such conflicting visions of them both. It was difficult to get into at first because of the chaos and side bar, and wordy ness of the opening but did enjoy It in the end.
This is my first time on book club . Now I am exciting to start reading this story and hear from everyone thoughts.
Same here. ✋🏽
Same 🙂
Same with me
I love to read
Me To
Me too!!!
Same here
This is my first book club, too. However, I always wanted to join one.
Me too
Same with me . I wasn’t sure if I am doing this . 🤘
My first time also!
Me too. Good book👍
Surprisingly, I really liked it. I’m not typically a reader of romance.
Same! I downloaded the book without even reading the description because I thought an online book discussion would be fun. When I realized it was a romance I was worried but I really enjoyed the book!!
Same
Me too.
Same
I agree. 🤓🧐
Be careful! Don’t go any further reading the comments unless you desire spoilers to ruin the surprises that are so fun! 🥰
Same here!
This book was good
Hi Zay sounds like you may have read this book before. What was your part of the story?
same I thought it was good too
It very much was the book was good I enjoyed reading it
I know right
So good of the so goods
Good book; enjoyable even though a little predictable.
What made it predictable to you? I found the storyline to be well plotted.
I thought so to some degree but did not expect the magnitude of the secret he was keeping.
I agree. The romance was what I picked the book for, so I knew it would be like that. I do enjoy how different authors write the hardships that couples go through.
I felt it was good but predictable too. The twist of his secrets were silly instead of a welcome change or surprising. I wish it had chosen to just to be a romantic novel because their love story was a lot more interesting to me.
I felt that way too.
It was a little predictable in that of course they ended up together, but I liked the way Meg had to learn how to fight instead of run away. Just that part was worth the read for me
Well, it says it’s a love story on the cover, so you know it’s going to end in “happily ever after.” That’s part of the definition of the genre, right?
I really liked that, too! There were some things about this book that did not follow the usual formula for a romance novel.
This is my first time with the Book Club. I’m interested to see how it works. As a Vermonter, it’s always fun to read books with urban settings.
Hi Wendy, this is my first time with an Online Book club. I, too, am interested in how it works. I have visited New York City, and so the apt and detailed descriptions put me right there. I would not have selected a Romance. I can go with the flow, though.
Same here, I usually don’t read romance, but I was curious about this online book club.
Most of the librarian picks are really not worth reading. This was a lightweight book was pleasant. Nice to read these types of books in a time of few entertainment choices, I thought.
Hey Wendy! How did you get your picture on there instead of a design?
This is my first time in an online book club. Such a fun idea! I visited New York a few years ago and it was fun to read about someplace I had visited. I personally am not a fan of big cities but reading this book made me want to go back to NY and give it another try!
great! I hope someone else will read it too!
I love the quotes at the beginning, every time my daughter has a problem I read her a quote
I just finished reading. At first I had trouble following along but I grew to love how chaotically beautiful this truly was. It was an amazing book with terrific characters. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a fluffy stand-alone that makes you want to curl up and read over and over again.
I agree Liz! I need to take a trip to Brooklyn soon!
I loved the characters, the city, her career, the food, The walks through Brooklyn, the signs, the descriptiveness of the signs, the mystery & the romance.
Nice review here Judy, well done
I agree also Liz. Had a snowy few days here and I couldn’t have asked for a better book to sit by the fire with a cup of tea…but not one tasting like the bottom a flower box.
i would have loved to see this book illustrated!
Yes, an illustrated book! I kept trying to imagine what her lettering looked like. The concept of having things hand lettered is foreign to me, one I’d probably never do – but intriguing nonetheless.
This was the most compelling part of this book. I wish I could have seen some illustrations as well.
Same here! It would have been great fun to see the lettering but especially the trees that she designed later on in the book.
Yes! Agree.
Yes, illustrations
Great idea for illustrations as Meg would illustrate.
Hello Liz,
I loved this book and how it kept my attention. It was wonderful to follow along with their journey in the city. Just like it says, “a great quarantine read!”
Hi, I just finished this book and it’s my first online book discussion. I really enjoyed Love Lettering. This book is fast paced and whimsical. I really couldn’t put it down.
Hi Marie, I am with you. My first online book discussion. COVID has made me desperate, as there are no Book Clubs meeting now. It took me awhile to get into it. I enjoyed her dry sense of humor in her own thoughts. Especially “Espresso is a defibrillator in a cup.”
Hello Marie,
My first online book club as well. It didn’t take me long to get into this book and not put it down. I do wish it would’ve ended differently.
How would you have wanted it to end??
I agree!
hi everyone, is my first time reading with many people, I hope enjoy The book!
Same here
it was…. GOOD
Although I enjoyed the audiobook, too wordy at times, and she had the tendency to be whinny. I think up to 7 hours would be enough.
I agree the story did drag a little in some places but I still found it enjoyable.
I never felt that way when reading the eBook. I’m interested to know how reading would compare to listening, bc I never picked up on her being whiny and I wonder if this could have been influenced by the voice actor. I never thought it dragged, either. I appreciated the ensemble of characters and how there were so many relationships at play, but I will admit at times I wanted the story to get back to Meg and Reid!!
Nice review here Kelsey, it had substance
I like books that take me to a place I’ve never been. I particularly enjoyed finding myself in New York City and following the lives of people so different from those in my circle. At first I didn’t like Meg but came to enjoy being in her company. Thanks
I also wonder if some of the letter and signage description could have gotten lost without some of the visuals provided in the text. I can see how that may have seemed wordy when, like me, you don’t recognize many fonts by name.
I listened to the audiobook of the novel. I really enjoyed it. The story line kept my interest, it was not predictable and had many twists and turns until the very end.
I listened to the audiobook. I liked the narration and the storyline.
I just finished reading it. It was a sweet story, and enjoyable to read. I liked that the characters weren’t perfect. Their flaws and challenges seemed more “real life”, past disappointments, financial concerns, poor decisions. But… still a happy ending, which maybe isn’t always “real life” but is anyway my favorite ending!
I do agree. I am used to books that are so overly done that they lose sight of real life. This book was easier to relate to but still allowed you to get lost in the story.
My exact feelings, lived this book.
I also felt that characters were written in a believable, “real” way. And yeah, I read books like this because I want that happy ending.
Stefanie, Yes, her style was real life. I could not relate to the best friend scenario, but a new love interest I could. I was a roommate, and although we were close and supportive, we were not life line close. My roommates and I were not college graduates. So, we were very independent to begin with. You fly the nest and make the best of it.
Just finished reading. Easy, fun read!
Totally agreed! Also, none of the characters were one-sided, which I always hate.
Yes! I liked how I felt like I could relate more to her current concerns and problems. I think that’s part of the reason I enjoyed the book so much!
Hello . I am enjoying the book. Although I am balancing so much . I am only on Chapter 2 where Meg and Reid meet in the store. Reid mention about the bulletin that has the message of getting married will be mistake and he ended up with a divorce. Is there anyone else who has started the book recently? I really like the book and plan to take more time on reading it .
I just finished Chapter 2. Keep reading…..lots of surprises in this chapter alone 😉
Cheryl, you misread. It was Wedding Invitations and Stationary related to same, and he broke the engagement. He did not marry Ashley (I think her name was). He did not divorce. Slow down and enjoy the read. The message was Mistake. Both he and Ashley realized it was a mistake. I think he came to the shop because he was curious about how did Meg know. When in fact, she did not do it on purpose, but may have intuitively. Even if one intuited, one does not butt in. It is not marriage counseling. So Meg was in hot water… Read more »
Her name was Avery.
Hi Cheryl, I love the Libby app my Local library offers. I read early in the morning before my mind gets busy with work and life obligations. Nice to have “me time”. I appreciate the talents of authors who bring respite from the pandemic. I visited NYC several times, especially when my daughter went to school in Manhattan. It was nice how several acquaintances in this book connected as friends and life partners. We can learn new words by reading and see the world differently as well. I was glued to this book!
Yes, Libby is an amazing resource. So many good library books to choose from. I enjoy reading on my Kindle. Although, I am old fashioned and miss having a book in my hands and turning the pages. It was definitely a welcomed distraction with the pandemic and even more so for me, because I had to make the hardest decision of my life on Tuesday, to let me cat go. Thank goodness for books!
I agree- I love paper books! But it’s been nice being able to read books on my phone too, especially when it’s slow at work and I can squeeze a chapter in. I’ve never used Libby but I really like Overdrive which is where I read this book and I can join the book discussion right from that app!
I’m so sorry about your cat! Sending good thoughts your way!
When reading anything, it is always a good habit to stop when you come to a word you cannot define yourself. Look it up, and savor the definitions. The books will become more interesting to you… and yes, as Mary said, slow down and take time with your books.
Exactly what I do! Me-time in the morning. 🙂
I started reading this book because it was advertised by my library and I thought it would be fun to read it and join the discussions. At first it was hard to get into but I kept reading and I’m glad I did. Once you get over the wordy beginning you will connect to the characters and enjoy the book. Didn’t expect Reid’s storyline but a nice twist.
I had to reread the first few pages a bunch of times. It gets much easier! 😂
Thanks for sharing this, I was pretty bored in the middle of chapter 3 and wanted to put it in the did-not-complete pile. I might give it a couple more chapters though. I just find I often want to grab the main character and scream “get to the point!”
Chelsea, I agree with you. She was really into her own head. She did have a wry humor about some things…like Defibrillator in a cup.”
I chose this book for the same reason as Sonia, and I also found it a slow start. I ended up loving the book – I liked the love story, the grow of the lessons Meg learned about herself, and the lessons of the story itself, e.g. fight to stay.
I thought it was just me. I was tired when I started and must have dozed off the first time but I set it back to the beginning and really listened and it made more sense. Maybe a bit wordy. I thought the Sibby storyline had an interesting twist too.
The Sibby storyline definitely was a twist for me! I was expecting the reason she had grown distant to be about her boyfriend or something like that. Definitely didn’t see the jealousy part coming!
I would rate it 3.5. Enjoyable, interesting characters. Their initial connection seemed a bit abrupt, but after that it was nice. I loved that one of the main characters is a mathematician. The book dragged a bit in the middle, in my opinion, and was not funny (certainly not laugh out loud), but still, a sweet, quick read.
I felt the same way. It was fine for a light, easy read, but some parts made me roll my eyes (super random and quickly glossed over mention of her having trouble achieving orgasms so obviously he’s immediately going to get her there) and the pretty regular unnecessary use of past perfect tense took me out of the story. I know that one is petty though! I totally agree that their connection was abrupt. There was nothing in their initial (or I guess technical their second) meeting that led me to believe that she would realistically invite him on her… Read more »
Yes, totally agree with your comments. I was a little skeptical that she would invite him on her new walking venture and why in the world would such a buttoned up guy agree?
Mandi, this was a reversal with girl asking boy. We do not usually get this insight. It may have been awkward for them both. And, it continues in their relationship. In the sex and in the games. Even at the end she is writing him love notes. She not only owns her own business, she owns this relationship. He wrestles it back from her, but she appears to be in the drivers seat.
But – but – it’s New York. People (including women) are more assertive there. I think that made it more real. Don’t tell me you’ve never called a guy…
I agree that the initial start up of the relationship seemed unnatural. At the end of the book it seems to be explained that Reid was told to go out with her (by basically a stranger he was working with?) but also he found her attractive. I guess part of it could be explained by Reid’s personality but it did mean that it took me a little longer to get into their relationship. I did feel like after that point it seemed to be more natural though. But the orgasm conversation was very cringe-y. I think it could have been… Read more »
I also really like that the book explored her relationships with other people, as well. That it wasn’t just about Meg and Reid. I’m not a big fan of romance books and I think that helped the book be more enjoyable for me! It didn’t always feel like I was reading a romance book which is what I need in a romance book.
Sho, right. I was surprised when this book was referred to as a comedy! This book was more about relationships. Good character development, even the minor characters. I feel they stood out even more, against the backdrop of teeming masses of the city.
Agree this was a 3.5. Not that funny or terribly romantic. Kate Clayborne’s earlier books are much better than this.
I agree with you… I would also rate it about a 3.5 … the book was cute… and once I was half way through it I wasn’t sure there was much more to it.. it dragged a little bit in the middle but I was pleasantly surprised at the end.
I felt very similar to those in this thread! Would any of you have a recommendation for a book similar to this to read next (quick, light hearted, some romance)?
I liked this well enough—especially the typography theme—but probably not a favorite selection for me. For a better read, try Well Met by Jen DeLuca. I really enjoyed it.
Thanks for the recc, Mary! I’m adding to my list now 🙂
Great idea How. What books have others found excellent?
I really liked the Bride Test by Helen Hoang. It was a light hearted romance with a nice twist in characterization, much like this one.
Totally agree. It was a fun, fast read, but nothing special. It was nice to have different themes of letters and numbers, but seemed a bit of an odd connection…out of the blue. I did not need the play-by-plays of their sex life. It was gratuitous. Found it odd that she harbored this secret of her parents into another state…no one would even care about that…and he was very weird with Avery the night before the drama. They were so direct with each other in some ways and so secretive in others….not a bad book, but not great either!
I agree.
I loved this book.Meg’s attachment to letters is like an etymologist’s attachment to words and as Reid’s is to numbers. Loved these characters. I loved how Clayborn organically worked characters’ traits into the story instead of the usual opening outlines of each character. I loved the games that Meg and Reid played to get to know the city. My favorite part is the concept of learning how to fight, “Fighting isn’t about leaving.”
I agree, Wendy! It’s important to understand that conflict, while it can be painful, helps us grow. I think the author did a good job of illustrating that.
Wendy, I was impressed with that section too. I had not though of conflict, fighting, calling someone on the carpet, as a positive experience with a positive outcome! Yet, recently I have become aware of how not having a fight, a breakup fight, prevented closure, and kept me stuck in an emotional, loyal, trap for….you would not believe for how long.
That’s my favorite part of the book! Definitely an unpopular view to have, but something that’s important to me!
Good observation, I can relate to Meg in that I also tend to avoid confrontation.
First time to join a book club, I am happy to see everyone thoughts.
I thought it was a super cute, easy read. And fitting as I had just yesterday gone into a stationery store and then saw the email to read the book afterward. I love journals and paper products and New York (when I visit) so it was a great combo of things that I already like. I finished it in just a couple hours.
I thought it was a good book. I really liked seeing from her artistic ‘letter’ view.
Its awsome
Hi
this book was good and if anyone want some suggestions for books to read im open
Thank you for the book suggestions.
I loved The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue!! I would also recommend The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern.
I read the starless sea, it was a great book! Confusing at first but, it turned out to be amazing!
I’m struggling with this one too. I’m listening to the audio book and it feels very wordy at the start. Going to try to stick with it. Never been in a book club so like you, thought I would give it a try. Will be neat to hear what others think of this story.
I really liked this book! Maybe we could have more of these soon
I thought it was a fun quick passed easy read
I wanted to try this book club, but went into this book thinking it was going to be your usual, sappy romance. The book was surprisingly much better than I expected! I definitely didn’t expect some things (I prefer a book to be not too predictable) and I liked that the reader could watch their friendship develop through the book. Their backstories added a nice layer to the characters that you don’t usually see in a romance novel. Of course there was some cheesiness that I would have not preferred (swoonsh also drove me a little crazy by the end),… Read more »
My thoughts exactly! I am not really a fan of romances and really enjoyed that it didn’t always feel like a romance. I really enjoyed the whole Meg-Sibby storyline too, as well as her relationships with her friends from the store. I enjoyed the book a lot more than I thought I would when I realized it was a romance!
Also, you’re not the only one who was not a fan of the swoonsh’s. The first couple times I thought it was cute. But it got to be a bit much after awhile!
I was really impressed by the storyline. I tend to like romance novels that have a mystery/detective theme, but this plot was very interesting and kept my attention.
this book was ok, however I was bored throughout and debated whether to finish it. also her internal monologue was long in between other dialogues, and the fbi thing sort of came out of nowhere.
I read most of the book but did not finish. Sex scenes are not my thing at all. A bit surprised this salacious book is being used for a big read.
Same! It was cringe-worthy to me, I had to skip through a lot of parts 🙄
I skipped those parts as well. Would have liked a little warning about that.
I agree. I thought those scenes were too detailed and didn’t seem to fit the characters or the rest of the book.
As far as the genre, I think the scenes weren’t especially detailed, but I completely agree that they didn’t fit the tone of this book. I skimmed them because I wasn’t expecting them and found I wasn’t ever interested when they came up.
Overall, I liked it. I appreciate the way the author made the male lead, not so perfect.
The story is interesting but Meg seems paranoid. Now Meg’s best friend will be moving out of the apartment and she seems nervous living alone. Does Meg change by becoming more confident knowing Reid ?
Same thing I wonder
lol but ya
i am having an issue with all the thoughts before the actual conversation between meg and reid, and meg and her room mate. she goes on for pages before actually speaking. way too much, i will try and finish and hopefully gets better.
It took some time for me too but I did enjoy it at the end.
This was a fun read. Exactly the kind of sweet book I would want to read in February. I really enjoyed it.
Good book. As a fellow font addict and letterer- was nice to see this in rom com.
I thought that the book was good, the plot was kind of flat but I enjoyed the story of the words and how she thinks
Yes, I loved getting inside her head.
Finished in 2 days. Well written, cute story. I liked how meg overcoming her creative block served two-fold. It was symbolic in her communication and openness becoming better too.
I’m only about a quarter of the way in, but if she was “sans serif” one more time I might cry. There are lots of other fonts.
I think she was using it as a leitmotif for Reid. Perhaps it would seem less repetitious if she also used fonts to describe other characters. Or maybe it would be even more annoying?
Sans Serif does not refer to a specific typeface, but the entire family of typefaces that do not have serifs. (The little flair on the ends of each letter) The author is telling us there is nothing superfluous about him. He is direct, with nothing decorative added.
Love Lettering was a very beautiful story . I adored it .
I liked the book. I liked the idea of the hidden messages in Megs writing. I liked the friendships she had and developed. The older I get the more I realize how important friendships are. I enjoyed the expression of sexuality involved. It seemed real and included consented and condoms.
Meg was vulnerable for various reasons but was able to rise above with the help of love ( I know, pretty corny) and support from her friends, employer and Reid.
Reid was a little too prefect in my opinion but the sex scenes were good.
Hi from Weymouth Ma!! I am just saw this what a wonderful idea!!! Starting the book this morning looking forward to sharing
Just posted – but had my email incorrect
Just started. I’m intrigued.
I’ve been looking for a book club and am hoping this is a good fit. I just discovered the club today so I have not started the book as of yet. It’s an unusual choice for me . I’m looking forward to reaching out of my comfort zone and also to thoughtful and interesting conversations.
In Chapter 3 and 4 I liked reading about Meg and Reid first meeting while being in the park. They were sharing their different idea .
Very COVID! Not part of the book. An outdoor setting is a relief from the dinner type meetings.
This is my first time also. I wlll read this story ASAP.
This is my first time too! Check my post and reply. I can’t wait to hear from all of you!
My first time participating in an on line book club. I just got the book and am looking forward to begin reading and sharing my thoughts! It’s cold and snowy so a great time to begin a new read.
This is also my first time in a library book club. I have always wanted to join a book club. Im listening by audiobook. I am intrigued ~ however~ listening by audio is a just slightly difficult to discern when Meg is in ‘her head talking’ versus talking aloud to Reid, but overall with a few rewinds I’m doing okay. I think is quite interesting the how Clayborn developed both characters with almost a Hyperlexia Autism feel. As a teacher of some children with this unique perspective it is refreshing to see it befitting in a storyline.
I finished this book today. It was a good read. But the way the characters were described I have such conflicting visions of them both. It was difficult to get into at first because of the chaos and side bar, and wordy ness of the opening but did enjoy It in the end.
I agree that it was a bit wordy at the beginning. I remember thinking, “Get on with it!”
This is the first digital book club I have done with the library app. I’m looking forward to this book.
Just got started but enjoying the book so far