Lovehampton
Sherri Rifkin
Reviewed by Tina Avon
I am a picky reader. I am especially picky about my contemporary
romance reads. Although some dislike the term "chick lit", to me
it is a badge of honor! I have been recently bemoaning the
apparent demise of the genre. Well, I am thrilled to report that
LOVEHAMPTON is literally making me eat my words!
This debut novel, written by Sherri Rifkin has brought back all that is
wonderful about a well written contemporary romance.
Our main character Tori (or it is Miller?) has led the life of a
recluse for the last two years, thanks to her former boyfriend.
Well, her friends aren't going to take it anymore and practically force
her to take part in a house sharing program in the Hamptons and we get
to along for the ride.
I absolutely adored the detailed scenes of the socialite parties, the
beautiful clothes and the even more wild relationships and hook-ups
(although these were all described with surprisingly little sexual
content) - which tells me that the author understands that, for
most of us, reading these books is really about romance and love (okay
and maybe a little bit about the shoes and the clothes!!!).
Although there is a lot going on (there are quite a few characters to
keep track of), Rifkin somehow manages to make us care about each and
every character - although I have to admit it was more of a stretch for
me to care about Leigh!
However, throughout the good times, the partying and the in-fighting
(you knew there had to be some right?') - the author never forgets
about Tori - and the fact that this character is a smart, hurt and
vulnerable person. Although, at times, I have to admit that I wanted to
scream at her to 'get tougher' and to 'stop letting other people tell
you what to do', it is obvious, by the end of the story, that the
author had a very definite arc planned for her. I thoroughly
enjoyed watching Tori learn her lessons the hard way and through it all
still held on to her empathy, warmth and hope!
I loved, loved, loved this book. I can't wait for the second book
by this author.