Revenge Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger

I'm not really sure how to review this book. It was exactly what I'd expected it to be - a quick, light read of little significance. Nothing blew me away in the book, but I enjoyed the mental vacation while actually on vacation (spring break!)

Revenge picks up 10 years after we first met the "devil," Andy, and Emily. Although so much time has passed, Andy is still haunted by her experience at Runway magazine as Editor-in-Chief Miranda Priestly's second assistant. I've no idea why she's still plagued after so much time has elapsed. Her successful career as the Editor and owner of a bridal magazine should have been enough of an f-you to the past to empower Andy, but it looms and eventually gets right in her face when Runway's publishing company (and essential Miranda herself) want to acquire Andy's magazine.

There's more drama in the book, some that's simply in Andy's head, some in reality, with an unsurprising twist at the end that's meant to be a jaw dropper. The one thing that just didn't make sense through, throughout all the goings on is Andy herself. She hems and haws between a woman who gets the job done, who is capable, confident, and successful and a self-doubting, afraid-to-speak-up, passive person. It's almost like she's two different people and unfortunately turns off her confident self when it would do her the most good (except maybe at the end.)

But, like I said, even with its flaws, this book is exactly what it claims to be and was a much enjoyed break from the classic literature I spent the previous four months reading. I wasn't upset I took the time to read it, I just wish the lead character was a better version of a female. That Andy had a stronger voice through all the crazy situations she found herself in in the book.

If you're looking to read anything else by Weisberger, check out my review of Chasing Harry Winston, a fun beach read.

Chasing Harry Winston by Lauren Weisberger

My first beach read of the summer lived up to its purpose as a mindless, girly book with a simple, upbeat plot and a few laughs.  Nowhere near the level of The Devil Wears Prada (Weisberger's first novel,) Chasing Harry Winston focuses on three women rounding the corner to their 30's trying to figure out life.

The characters are pretty stereotypical.  Emmy is the recently dumped, serial monogamist, Ariana is the eccentric rich girl living without consequences, and Leigh is the one who seemingly has everything together - the ideal job and boyfriend - but is essentially lost.  Each woman gets to a totally predictable point in the end of the book where they've grown as a woman and grabbed happiness all on their own so definitely no surprises, but the characters were fun to read and the plot flowed at a good pace once it got going.  Chasing Harry Winston is a Sex in the City with more character arc and a briefer story line.

Overall an enjoyable read, this book was something I could easily put down and pick back up without forgetting any major plot points.  It was what I was looking to read so I managed to overlook the sloppy editing and typos throughout (some of which should have been caught by spellcheck.)  If you're a chick-lit summer reader this book could make it onto your list; just don't put it at the top - it's a middle of the list type of book.