Review: Pursuing the Times by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Pursuing the Times by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Pages: 257

Format: ebook 

Buy the Book: Amazon  

Goodreads:  All that popular Chick-Lit author Mercury Lauren wants is to have one of her books reviewed by the New York Times Book Review - just one - and she'll do almost anything to get it. In this contemporary romantic comedy, with a nod toward Pride and Prejudice she crosses swords and hearts with the Editor-in-Chief of the NYTBR in a madcap adventure that takes her from her home in Westport to a yoga retreat to a golf course in Florida. Will she get what she wants and will she finally be happy if she does? Only one thing's for certain: nothing will stop her from Pursuing the Times.


Kritters Thoughts:  Our main character is an author in the Chick Lit genre, whether she likes it or not and is trying to find some credibility beyond being pigeon holed as a certain type of author.  She is trying her darnedest to get an honest review in the New York Times, doing some crazy things to get herself and her books noticed (reminded me of the twitter debate about Jennifer Weiner and women authors reviews).  

With a glance behind the scenes of the publishing world with a concentration on the reviewing side of things, I loved this book with its quirky characters.  The opening parts that take place at the National Book Awards were fantastic and of course the shout out to BEA made me giddy!  I am a nut for the book world, so if you are, I would say go get this one now!  

My one point of contention was the quickness for our author to jump in bed with one character (no I can't spoil with whom), but it was just kind of sudden and sort of stilted me for a second.

I have had many a debate about the "chick lit" genre and to be honest, I am ok with the distinction.  For me it defines the book as having a strong female character who is trying to find something - whether it be satisfaction on the job front or in the relationship front and at some point she must make a change to herself to find happiness.  I would say this is a great book to define the genre and give readers who don't always read this kind of book a peak into the debate.

Rating: absolutely loved it and want a sequel

Ebook 2013 Challenge: 14 out of 50

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one copy of this book free of charge from the author.  I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for receipt of the book; rather, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.