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Deconstructing INFATUATION
Sometimes, whether you're single or with a significant one, somebody appears in your life unexpectedly. We feel the need to know who this person is, the need to know exactly who this person is.A story may offer different interpretations, even with several irreconcilable and contradictory meanings. As in Francesca da Rimini and Paolo Malatesta's story in Dante's Divine Comedy, this story is not about unfaithfulness either. This story is about what burns inside of oneself when we let ourselves fall madly for someone.
148 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2012
129 people want to read
About the author
Merce Cardus
3 books163 followersMerce Cardus is the author of two novels, I say Who, What, and Where! and Deconstructing Infatuation. Her novels are inspirational, thought-provoking, and witty, whose themes reflect and explore the great questions of Life, constantly searching for Truth.
Earning a Master's degree in Corporate Law, she has headed her own law firm. In 2008, after a wake-up call, she began an inner journey to realize her passion, and committed to following her heart. She's currently living her passion by working on her third novel.
To learn more, visit her at
http://mercecardus.com
amazon.com/author/mercecardus
Earning a Master's degree in Corporate Law, she has headed her own law firm. In 2008, after a wake-up call, she began an inner journey to realize her passion, and committed to following her heart. She's currently living her passion by working on her third novel.
To learn more, visit her at
http://mercecardus.com
amazon.com/author/mercecardus
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 14, 2012
Central to the plot of Deconstructing INFATUATION are Helen Hayes, a late thirty-something literary agent living in Manhattan, and Tiziano Conti, a handsome Florentine in town to run the New York Marathon (one would assume, referred as it is as the marathon). Helen has a significant other who lives in his own apartment across town when he is in town which is not often as he is traveling 360 days of the year.
Her roommate, Marlene, comes and goes, it would seem, although the reasons for her itinerancy are never explained. It's enough to the author and presumably to the reader that Marlene will be out of town for a month and wants to sublet her bedroom, which she has done in the past with less than satisfactory results. However, this negative experience does not deter the roommates, and the story opens on the pair holding an open house in an attempt to find the right temporary tenant.
Tiziano shoulders his way in as the Johnny-come-lately five minutes before the end of the open house. He is sexy, impudent, and Italian. Helen, rigid, compulsively organized and scheduled with her life properly pigeonholed in all the correct places, dislikes messy, spontaneous Tiziano from the start. Marlene (the one leaving) pushes to accept him, while Helen (the roommate who will actually have to live with him) wants to send him packing. Marlene ultimately gets her way.
Exit Marlene. Commence the devolution of uptight, Type A, perfectly rational and calculating Helen into a spontaneous, irresponsible and ultimately irrational romantic. Tiziano's insidious corrupting influence animal magnetism and existential philosophy gradually overcomes Helen to the point that she decides to throw her entire life away based on a lot of imported Italian beer, a few mornings of burnt bagels, two weeks of flirtation, and two days of passionate wild abandon. And none of it makes any sense—especially not the abrupt and far from satisfying conclusion.
But, that's Merce Cardus' entire point. She writes in a matter-of-fact almost-clinical fashion doing exactly what she sets out to do: she deconstructs Helen's, if not inexplicable, unexpected and uncharacteristic anticipated renunciation of everything she had spent her entire adult life creating. Without making any moral judgments on their "beautiful interlude", she attempts to find reason in Helen's unreasonable impulse to fling everything over for a guy who may have no intention of progressing the relationship beyond the physical.
Ultimately, Helen knows absolutely nothing about Tiziano except that he excites her physically and makes her dissatisfied with and distrustful of her long-standing relationship with the traveler. Moreover, she never attempts to find out anything about him, which is only one of the inexplicable things she does. Add to that list her unfathomable expectation of finding Tiziano anxiously awaiting her return and ready to run away with her after she has spent a ten-day vacation with her boyfriend, and her grand idea that the best way to hang on to both is to "entertain" one to conceal the fact that the other lurks outside the bedroom door. Is it any wonder that the book ends as it does? . . . and that is how, exactly?
As a reviewer, it's easy to pass judgment on Helen's behavior and rather difficult to keep from finger-wagging. However, I must admit that Ms. Cardus does a good job of bluntly and objectively examining the situation which curiously instills in the reader the very sensibilities she wishes to convey—that of "is that all there is?" It's a question she leaves her protagonist asking and stubbornly refuses to answer. Ms. Cardus gets high marks for an intelligent, concise and well-written work. I believe she accomplished what she set out to do and can be proud of her efforts.
Be that as it may, from my personal perspective, I find the entire situation difficult to fathom, starting from the moment the two women agree to allow a complete and total stranger not only into their lives—or, more to the point, Helen's unprotected life—based solely on the fact that he's attractive and they're tired of looking at candidates. Never mind the potential intimacy issues. How do they know he's not an ax-murderer?
Neither have I ever been able to relate to a lifestyle where casual sex is considered the opening overtures of a relationship and "commitment" means extending that intimacy beyond the physical, i.e., get to know someone beyond their first name. Why bother to find out the unimportant stuff like, I dunno, what they do for a living or if they are married or whether or not they are even someone you want to spend any length of time with at all? Neither do I think that Ms. Cardus was trying to make that point. We seem to look out on two very different worlds. But again, it's a matter of taste.
Also a matter of taste: I skipped over probably six paragraphs total of unnecessary love-making, but it was not too terribly graphic or prevalent. I think she dropped perhaps two F-bombs and a few more OMG-type profanities, but it wasn't anything more than one is exposed to in public and probably a great deal less.
Bottom line: This book is very well-crafted with interesting, likable characters in what I fear are all-too-true-to-life situations. It is emotionally compelling and distancing both at once, which takes skill, and is concise and to the point which is harder still. If you can live with the salacious content (or self-censor), I would recommend this book. If nothing else, it provides a window into how the other half lives.
Her roommate, Marlene, comes and goes, it would seem, although the reasons for her itinerancy are never explained. It's enough to the author and presumably to the reader that Marlene will be out of town for a month and wants to sublet her bedroom, which she has done in the past with less than satisfactory results. However, this negative experience does not deter the roommates, and the story opens on the pair holding an open house in an attempt to find the right temporary tenant.
Tiziano shoulders his way in as the Johnny-come-lately five minutes before the end of the open house. He is sexy, impudent, and Italian. Helen, rigid, compulsively organized and scheduled with her life properly pigeonholed in all the correct places, dislikes messy, spontaneous Tiziano from the start. Marlene (the one leaving) pushes to accept him, while Helen (the roommate who will actually have to live with him) wants to send him packing. Marlene ultimately gets her way.
Exit Marlene. Commence the devolution of uptight, Type A, perfectly rational and calculating Helen into a spontaneous, irresponsible and ultimately irrational romantic. Tiziano's insidious corrupting influence animal magnetism and existential philosophy gradually overcomes Helen to the point that she decides to throw her entire life away based on a lot of imported Italian beer, a few mornings of burnt bagels, two weeks of flirtation, and two days of passionate wild abandon. And none of it makes any sense—especially not the abrupt and far from satisfying conclusion.
But, that's Merce Cardus' entire point. She writes in a matter-of-fact almost-clinical fashion doing exactly what she sets out to do: she deconstructs Helen's, if not inexplicable, unexpected and uncharacteristic anticipated renunciation of everything she had spent her entire adult life creating. Without making any moral judgments on their "beautiful interlude", she attempts to find reason in Helen's unreasonable impulse to fling everything over for a guy who may have no intention of progressing the relationship beyond the physical.
Ultimately, Helen knows absolutely nothing about Tiziano except that he excites her physically and makes her dissatisfied with and distrustful of her long-standing relationship with the traveler. Moreover, she never attempts to find out anything about him, which is only one of the inexplicable things she does. Add to that list her unfathomable expectation of finding Tiziano anxiously awaiting her return and ready to run away with her after she has spent a ten-day vacation with her boyfriend, and her grand idea that the best way to hang on to both is to "entertain" one to conceal the fact that the other lurks outside the bedroom door. Is it any wonder that the book ends as it does? . . . and that is how, exactly?
As a reviewer, it's easy to pass judgment on Helen's behavior and rather difficult to keep from finger-wagging. However, I must admit that Ms. Cardus does a good job of bluntly and objectively examining the situation which curiously instills in the reader the very sensibilities she wishes to convey—that of "is that all there is?" It's a question she leaves her protagonist asking and stubbornly refuses to answer. Ms. Cardus gets high marks for an intelligent, concise and well-written work. I believe she accomplished what she set out to do and can be proud of her efforts.
Be that as it may, from my personal perspective, I find the entire situation difficult to fathom, starting from the moment the two women agree to allow a complete and total stranger not only into their lives—or, more to the point, Helen's unprotected life—based solely on the fact that he's attractive and they're tired of looking at candidates. Never mind the potential intimacy issues. How do they know he's not an ax-murderer?
Neither have I ever been able to relate to a lifestyle where casual sex is considered the opening overtures of a relationship and "commitment" means extending that intimacy beyond the physical, i.e., get to know someone beyond their first name. Why bother to find out the unimportant stuff like, I dunno, what they do for a living or if they are married or whether or not they are even someone you want to spend any length of time with at all? Neither do I think that Ms. Cardus was trying to make that point. We seem to look out on two very different worlds. But again, it's a matter of taste.
Also a matter of taste: I skipped over probably six paragraphs total of unnecessary love-making, but it was not too terribly graphic or prevalent. I think she dropped perhaps two F-bombs and a few more OMG-type profanities, but it wasn't anything more than one is exposed to in public and probably a great deal less.
Bottom line: This book is very well-crafted with interesting, likable characters in what I fear are all-too-true-to-life situations. It is emotionally compelling and distancing both at once, which takes skill, and is concise and to the point which is harder still. If you can live with the salacious content (or self-censor), I would recommend this book. If nothing else, it provides a window into how the other half lives.
July 31, 2012
http://avidreaderreviewz.blogspot.com/
First let me start off with the fact I rarely read contemporary romance but I enjoy it as a genre. Deconstructing INFATUATION was something else all together.. it was unlike most romance books I've read.
The book starts off different than what I'm used to but I found myself quickly catching up and figuring out characters and there personalities. It's shared from Helen's point of view, she shares a flat with her friend Marleen in an apartment complex. Marleen has to go out of town for a while, so she wants to 'sublet' her room, this is where we get to meet the mysterious and Italian Tiziano.
The story was fast paced and left you trying to catch up or keep up, and if you're able to it ends up being a pretty good read. I personally like that Merce Cardus skipped over the petty fluff some authors often use to much of. With that being said I do think I would have enjoyed this book a bit more if it were longer, contradicting I know, but it's how I feel.
Overall if you are looking for a compelling story with the trails and tribulations some woman face in the world of romance and in finding a mate then this is for you, I don't recommend it to anyone under the age of 18 though there is adult content. The books characters are developed and the dialog is entertaining. Be forewarned the ending alone will be surprising and make you wish there was more of this book for you to read.
I give this book four stars.
First let me start off with the fact I rarely read contemporary romance but I enjoy it as a genre. Deconstructing INFATUATION was something else all together.. it was unlike most romance books I've read.
The book starts off different than what I'm used to but I found myself quickly catching up and figuring out characters and there personalities. It's shared from Helen's point of view, she shares a flat with her friend Marleen in an apartment complex. Marleen has to go out of town for a while, so she wants to 'sublet' her room, this is where we get to meet the mysterious and Italian Tiziano.
The story was fast paced and left you trying to catch up or keep up, and if you're able to it ends up being a pretty good read. I personally like that Merce Cardus skipped over the petty fluff some authors often use to much of. With that being said I do think I would have enjoyed this book a bit more if it were longer, contradicting I know, but it's how I feel.
Overall if you are looking for a compelling story with the trails and tribulations some woman face in the world of romance and in finding a mate then this is for you, I don't recommend it to anyone under the age of 18 though there is adult content. The books characters are developed and the dialog is entertaining. Be forewarned the ending alone will be surprising and make you wish there was more of this book for you to read.
I give this book four stars.
October 17, 2012
DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION by Mercè Cardús
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Date published: June 1, 2012
ISBN: 978-1477481486
Contemporary Romance
E-Book
Reviewed by Lynne
http://www.amazon.com/Deconstructing-...
Obtained via author.
Rating: 3.8
Thirty-something Helen Hayes, a seemingly uptight Manhattan literary agent, shares an apartment with Marleen Walker and has a boyfriend, Mark, she rarely sees since he travels a lot. When Marleen intends going away for awhile, they decide to place an ad on Craigslist for a temporary roommate.
When Tiziano Conti from Florence, Italy appears at their door, Marleen is quick to offer him the sublet, despite Helen’s reservations. Helen has never lived with a man and, due to her extremes regarding organization, scheduling, and rule making, finds him totally unacceptable. Especially since her boyfriend may not like the idea of her living with a complete stranger. And a sexy one at that.
Right away, Helen remains difficult, imposing a rigid set of rules on her new roommate, fully expecting him to comply with her way of doing things. Fortunately, he maintains a resolute attitude about the whole thing.
After the first week, Helen decides to establish some sort of rapport with Tiziano who, by all appearances, is confident, charismatic, and very good looking. Inviting him to join her and a friend for pizza one night soon opens the door.
As time goes on, Helen learns more about Tiziano than she had expected and soon finds herself growing enamored with him. Time spent talking reveals how intelligent and well-read the man is, and this impresses her since she is an educated book worm herself.
When her infatuation with Tiziano grows steamy, she soon begins questioning her relationship with her long-distance boyfriend. Confused over her feelings and behavior, she suddenly bolts to spend time with Mark, to sort everything out.
Time away clears her mind, and she seeks out her friend, Emily, to help deconstruct her infatuation with Tiziano. But when she decides what to do about her relationship with him, she hurries home to tell him, only to find him gone from her life.
DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION by Mercè Cardús is a sophisticated story that delves into the affairs of the heart, in a fascinating, unique way.
Although I liked this romance, it is a bit difficult to review. Ms. Cardús has a knack for writing, yet I feel DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION should have been lengthened to include more details about some of the characters. I felt frustrated at the end of the story because some of my questions were never answered. I wanted so much to learn more about Tiziano but, other than the fact that he is kind, a good cook, and extremely well read, there isn’t much else. Perhaps some scenes from Tiziano’s point of view would help the reader to connect more with him. As it stands, he seems to be only someone standing in the background who steps into the picture when it is his cue to do so. I did like him, however, as a main character. I just feel that something is lacking in order for him to be more real to me. Perhaps some aspect of how he spends his days while Helen is at work or elsewhere and of how he feels about Helen’s treatment of him and their living arrangements.
Helen, the main female in DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION, although educated and a bit uptight, perhaps because of job-related stress, seems to jump too readily into bed with Tiziano, in my opinion. I do understand why this happens and why it is necessary for this story to play out, but considering how rigid Helen is initially, it just seems odd that she would suddenly break all the rules and do what she does. She seems to barely consider her behavior as an act of unfaithfulness to Mark.
Regardless of the literary connection she has with Tiziano, it still isn’t clear how Helen really feels. I feel that if her heart palpitated more or her palms grew sweaty whenever she is around this Italian hunk, perhaps it would give the reader more understanding of why she is so infatuated with him. And of why she is willing to jump ship in order to be with him later.
All of the characters in DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION are likeable. But I believe deeper development and more descriptions of them would enhance the story even more.
Ms. Cardús has some great dialogues in this story, and I especially enjoyed reading the discussions on Italian cuisines and on Dante’s Divine Comedy. Such an original addition to this story.
I love the overall concept of DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION. The title is perfect, in my opinion, and the story plays out well. I just feel that with more editing, this story would become even better than it is. It needs to be more believable. Readers need to feel what Helen is feeling for Tiziano at the moment things begin to really change between them,
DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION is fast-paced and written with a skilled hand. Overall, it is a great love story, and I would recommend it to anyone interested. A highly original plot causes the reader to think more deeply about relationships, especially when deciding between infatuation and true love. It is well worth a read.
This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Date published: June 1, 2012
ISBN: 978-1477481486
Contemporary Romance
E-Book
Reviewed by Lynne
http://www.amazon.com/Deconstructing-...
Obtained via author.
Rating: 3.8
Thirty-something Helen Hayes, a seemingly uptight Manhattan literary agent, shares an apartment with Marleen Walker and has a boyfriend, Mark, she rarely sees since he travels a lot. When Marleen intends going away for awhile, they decide to place an ad on Craigslist for a temporary roommate.
When Tiziano Conti from Florence, Italy appears at their door, Marleen is quick to offer him the sublet, despite Helen’s reservations. Helen has never lived with a man and, due to her extremes regarding organization, scheduling, and rule making, finds him totally unacceptable. Especially since her boyfriend may not like the idea of her living with a complete stranger. And a sexy one at that.
Right away, Helen remains difficult, imposing a rigid set of rules on her new roommate, fully expecting him to comply with her way of doing things. Fortunately, he maintains a resolute attitude about the whole thing.
After the first week, Helen decides to establish some sort of rapport with Tiziano who, by all appearances, is confident, charismatic, and very good looking. Inviting him to join her and a friend for pizza one night soon opens the door.
As time goes on, Helen learns more about Tiziano than she had expected and soon finds herself growing enamored with him. Time spent talking reveals how intelligent and well-read the man is, and this impresses her since she is an educated book worm herself.
When her infatuation with Tiziano grows steamy, she soon begins questioning her relationship with her long-distance boyfriend. Confused over her feelings and behavior, she suddenly bolts to spend time with Mark, to sort everything out.
Time away clears her mind, and she seeks out her friend, Emily, to help deconstruct her infatuation with Tiziano. But when she decides what to do about her relationship with him, she hurries home to tell him, only to find him gone from her life.
DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION by Mercè Cardús is a sophisticated story that delves into the affairs of the heart, in a fascinating, unique way.
Although I liked this romance, it is a bit difficult to review. Ms. Cardús has a knack for writing, yet I feel DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION should have been lengthened to include more details about some of the characters. I felt frustrated at the end of the story because some of my questions were never answered. I wanted so much to learn more about Tiziano but, other than the fact that he is kind, a good cook, and extremely well read, there isn’t much else. Perhaps some scenes from Tiziano’s point of view would help the reader to connect more with him. As it stands, he seems to be only someone standing in the background who steps into the picture when it is his cue to do so. I did like him, however, as a main character. I just feel that something is lacking in order for him to be more real to me. Perhaps some aspect of how he spends his days while Helen is at work or elsewhere and of how he feels about Helen’s treatment of him and their living arrangements.
Helen, the main female in DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION, although educated and a bit uptight, perhaps because of job-related stress, seems to jump too readily into bed with Tiziano, in my opinion. I do understand why this happens and why it is necessary for this story to play out, but considering how rigid Helen is initially, it just seems odd that she would suddenly break all the rules and do what she does. She seems to barely consider her behavior as an act of unfaithfulness to Mark.
Regardless of the literary connection she has with Tiziano, it still isn’t clear how Helen really feels. I feel that if her heart palpitated more or her palms grew sweaty whenever she is around this Italian hunk, perhaps it would give the reader more understanding of why she is so infatuated with him. And of why she is willing to jump ship in order to be with him later.
All of the characters in DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION are likeable. But I believe deeper development and more descriptions of them would enhance the story even more.
Ms. Cardús has some great dialogues in this story, and I especially enjoyed reading the discussions on Italian cuisines and on Dante’s Divine Comedy. Such an original addition to this story.
I love the overall concept of DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION. The title is perfect, in my opinion, and the story plays out well. I just feel that with more editing, this story would become even better than it is. It needs to be more believable. Readers need to feel what Helen is feeling for Tiziano at the moment things begin to really change between them,
DECONSTRUCTING INFATUATION is fast-paced and written with a skilled hand. Overall, it is a great love story, and I would recommend it to anyone interested. A highly original plot causes the reader to think more deeply about relationships, especially when deciding between infatuation and true love. It is well worth a read.
This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.
July 31, 2012
Book Review: Deconstructing INFATUATION by Merce Cardus
Rating: 4.5/5.0 stars
“A short but fantastic read. The book is passionate and direct to the point. I love that the author was able to create a story that will haunt its readers (in a good way), which may lead to us (readers) actually learning something really important about life – and love.” – Ara @ My Book and My Coffee
This book, Deconstructing INFATUATION, was given to me by Merce Cardus, the author, in exchange for an honest review.
This short story offers so much, which is really ironic. I liked the plot; for me, it was realistic, certainly something that could easily be experienced by anyone. It is fast paced, indeed, but the life – and ‘love’ – lessons I think the author wanted to let her readers realize were strategically implied and successfully included in the book.
Deconstructing INFATUATION tells the story about a part of Helen’s life that I think she will never ever forget. Actually, I really believe she won’t. An almost month-long experience that will, for once, let her actually relax… and know what she really wants. And shake her emotionally, and, ‘physically’. :D I won’t give out more information (At least, I'll try not to) as I feel that you will enjoy this book more if you will only have a few ideas of what’s in store for you.
Although just from reading the first chapter, you will already have an idea on what is about to happen, or how likely the story will turn out. For me, I was still surprised as to how the ending went down. It was almost heart-breaking but still, I do love the ending. You’ll probably question me after reading the book yourself. But I think the ending is just fitting. At least, that's how it was written. You’ll know what I mean.
The characters: The book’s characters are all relatable, especially Helen’s. Helen is the book’s protagonist. I like her and I don’t care if she made a mistake; the truth is, we can all learn from her mistake. She has a boyfriend named Mark who travels a lot. Her roommate, Marleen, is about to get married and has to sublet her room for a month. This is where Tiziano comes in… In this book, it will seem that you’ll need more information about the characters especially Tiziano’s. But that’s not how the book was written and intended. The author wanted to emphasize the life lesson you are about to discover.
I think that what happened to Helen, her experiences, her spontaneous change of heart, her situation, are all very close to our reality. This is one of the reasons why I love this book. It's fiction but it definitely and conveniently connects you to real life scenarios. Helen was obviously infatuated, although I don't think she knows that at first or at all. She’s ready to give up everything which is really scary because while I was reading the book, there’s no telling if it will be reciprocated. In real life, some of us may have been in the similar situation where we think we love a person but realize in the end that “Oh bugger, It’s not real.” Or perhaps, we love a person, and we assume that they will love us back – the infamous unrequited love (I’ve mastered this one. HAHA). Or maybe a situation where we are in a relationship, and then someone interesting and appealing comes along and rocks our world, makes us smile and feel that funny sensation whenever we fall in love, and almost immediately, we realize things that we didn’t know we needed, feelings that we didn't know existed, and suddenly, we have that urge to jump and change everything – and soon. All too familiar? I would say so. Oh dear, let me tell you, this book will really make you think and assess maybe not everything in your life, but enough (to actually make you wonder).
“To love is to risk”. Is it really worth ‘loving’ someone when you know that it presents risks in almost every aspect? For Helen, it didn’t matter at the time. She knows what she wants (or at least what she thinks she wants), and is eager to pursue it – no matter what.
I say, live and let live. ;) I mean, honestly, when you’re in the ‘fallen-in-love’ mode (or at least, when you think you are), you rarely think things through. Can you really blame Helen? Like what Meg (from Hercules) said, “People do crazy things… when they’re in love”. So true.
I should tell you now that I was once (or twice) a hopeless romantic and that I’ve been there … and done a lot of risking here and there. I’ve learned a lot, which is all I can say. Helen’s lucky to have realized better in the end.
So, my dear readers, viewers and friends, if you’d like to read a novel that is full of passion and love and life realizations then go ahead, please read Deconstructing INFATUATION by Merce Cardus. You’ll certainly love it. I did.
Rating: 4.5/5.0 stars
“A short but fantastic read. The book is passionate and direct to the point. I love that the author was able to create a story that will haunt its readers (in a good way), which may lead to us (readers) actually learning something really important about life – and love.” – Ara @ My Book and My Coffee
This book, Deconstructing INFATUATION, was given to me by Merce Cardus, the author, in exchange for an honest review.
This short story offers so much, which is really ironic. I liked the plot; for me, it was realistic, certainly something that could easily be experienced by anyone. It is fast paced, indeed, but the life – and ‘love’ – lessons I think the author wanted to let her readers realize were strategically implied and successfully included in the book.
Deconstructing INFATUATION tells the story about a part of Helen’s life that I think she will never ever forget. Actually, I really believe she won’t. An almost month-long experience that will, for once, let her actually relax… and know what she really wants. And shake her emotionally, and, ‘physically’. :D I won’t give out more information (At least, I'll try not to) as I feel that you will enjoy this book more if you will only have a few ideas of what’s in store for you.
Although just from reading the first chapter, you will already have an idea on what is about to happen, or how likely the story will turn out. For me, I was still surprised as to how the ending went down. It was almost heart-breaking but still, I do love the ending. You’ll probably question me after reading the book yourself. But I think the ending is just fitting. At least, that's how it was written. You’ll know what I mean.
The characters: The book’s characters are all relatable, especially Helen’s. Helen is the book’s protagonist. I like her and I don’t care if she made a mistake; the truth is, we can all learn from her mistake. She has a boyfriend named Mark who travels a lot. Her roommate, Marleen, is about to get married and has to sublet her room for a month. This is where Tiziano comes in… In this book, it will seem that you’ll need more information about the characters especially Tiziano’s. But that’s not how the book was written and intended. The author wanted to emphasize the life lesson you are about to discover.
I think that what happened to Helen, her experiences, her spontaneous change of heart, her situation, are all very close to our reality. This is one of the reasons why I love this book. It's fiction but it definitely and conveniently connects you to real life scenarios. Helen was obviously infatuated, although I don't think she knows that at first or at all. She’s ready to give up everything which is really scary because while I was reading the book, there’s no telling if it will be reciprocated. In real life, some of us may have been in the similar situation where we think we love a person but realize in the end that “Oh bugger, It’s not real.” Or perhaps, we love a person, and we assume that they will love us back – the infamous unrequited love (I’ve mastered this one. HAHA). Or maybe a situation where we are in a relationship, and then someone interesting and appealing comes along and rocks our world, makes us smile and feel that funny sensation whenever we fall in love, and almost immediately, we realize things that we didn’t know we needed, feelings that we didn't know existed, and suddenly, we have that urge to jump and change everything – and soon. All too familiar? I would say so. Oh dear, let me tell you, this book will really make you think and assess maybe not everything in your life, but enough (to actually make you wonder).
“To love is to risk”. Is it really worth ‘loving’ someone when you know that it presents risks in almost every aspect? For Helen, it didn’t matter at the time. She knows what she wants (or at least what she thinks she wants), and is eager to pursue it – no matter what.
I say, live and let live. ;) I mean, honestly, when you’re in the ‘fallen-in-love’ mode (or at least, when you think you are), you rarely think things through. Can you really blame Helen? Like what Meg (from Hercules) said, “People do crazy things… when they’re in love”. So true.
I should tell you now that I was once (or twice) a hopeless romantic and that I’ve been there … and done a lot of risking here and there. I’ve learned a lot, which is all I can say. Helen’s lucky to have realized better in the end.
So, my dear readers, viewers and friends, if you’d like to read a novel that is full of passion and love and life realizations then go ahead, please read Deconstructing INFATUATION by Merce Cardus. You’ll certainly love it. I did.
August 10, 2012
Repost from http://elucidreams.blogspot.com/
"Deconstructing Infatuation” will have one rethinking the old phase, “love will make you do crazy things”. It is infatuation that leads us spiraling downward into the unknown, running face first with our eyes closed.
Teaser: Helene is a woman not terribly different from any other. She has a career, as a literary agent, an annoying roommate, and a steady boyfriend; her life is coming along as planned. However, when her roommate, Marleen, sublets a room in their apartment to an attractive man, Tiziano, Helene faces the ultimate test of her fidelity. Charming, good looking, and new, Tiziano quickly captures Helene’s attention. His presence further highlights the shortcomings of her with relationship with boyfriend Mark. Helene is torn between the man she has a long standing bond with, and the fiery connection that could be with Tiziano. Can Helene remain faithful? Or will she succumb to intriguing allure of the sultry stranger.
Why you’ll love it: “Deconstructing Infatuation” is a short, lightening fast read, but it gets the job done. Despite its description, the story is not too heavily bogged down in drama, and the author makes excellent use of humor. The lighthearted parts make a fantastic contrast to the main character’s trials. The story isn’t merely a tale of adultery, it examines the rush of emotion and perhaps irrationality that comes with infatuation.
Did I like it? : The short answer is yes. As a rational creature I found myself angry with Helene’s character. How could someone be so instantly fascinated with a stranger, that they are willing to sacrifice a relationship they’ve put time and effort into? Perhaps this question arose because I’ve never been infatuated in such a manner. I think other readers will be asking themselves the same thing. I found myself loathing the way, the protagonist, Helene, behaves in the story mainly because her change is so sudden. However, life is something that changes suddenly and upon further evaluation, I feel that the character’s and situation are fairly realistic. A book which forces you to ask questions or evokes feelings for a character is one certainly worth reading.
Caveats: The book is for adults, due to adult situations I would not necessarily recommend this for young teens.
"Deconstructing Infatuation” will have one rethinking the old phase, “love will make you do crazy things”. It is infatuation that leads us spiraling downward into the unknown, running face first with our eyes closed.
Teaser: Helene is a woman not terribly different from any other. She has a career, as a literary agent, an annoying roommate, and a steady boyfriend; her life is coming along as planned. However, when her roommate, Marleen, sublets a room in their apartment to an attractive man, Tiziano, Helene faces the ultimate test of her fidelity. Charming, good looking, and new, Tiziano quickly captures Helene’s attention. His presence further highlights the shortcomings of her with relationship with boyfriend Mark. Helene is torn between the man she has a long standing bond with, and the fiery connection that could be with Tiziano. Can Helene remain faithful? Or will she succumb to intriguing allure of the sultry stranger.
Why you’ll love it: “Deconstructing Infatuation” is a short, lightening fast read, but it gets the job done. Despite its description, the story is not too heavily bogged down in drama, and the author makes excellent use of humor. The lighthearted parts make a fantastic contrast to the main character’s trials. The story isn’t merely a tale of adultery, it examines the rush of emotion and perhaps irrationality that comes with infatuation.
Did I like it? : The short answer is yes. As a rational creature I found myself angry with Helene’s character. How could someone be so instantly fascinated with a stranger, that they are willing to sacrifice a relationship they’ve put time and effort into? Perhaps this question arose because I’ve never been infatuated in such a manner. I think other readers will be asking themselves the same thing. I found myself loathing the way, the protagonist, Helene, behaves in the story mainly because her change is so sudden. However, life is something that changes suddenly and upon further evaluation, I feel that the character’s and situation are fairly realistic. A book which forces you to ask questions or evokes feelings for a character is one certainly worth reading.
Caveats: The book is for adults, due to adult situations I would not necessarily recommend this for young teens.
September 13, 2012
I was asked by the author to read and review this book. This was a different spin from what I have been reading, but it was a refreshing change. This book fits more into the Chick-Lit genre and is more of an adult novel.
The main character, Helen, has basically been in a relationship for 3 years and is living what seems to be a pretty hum-drum life….until her roommate sublets her room out for the month to a hot Italian named Tiziano. The book is a super short quick read and basically shows how one woman’s life changes when she becomes… infatuated. I thought this was a really good book and gave a very real perspective about just what it means to be infatuated.
http://bookpusher.com/book-review/dec...
The main character, Helen, has basically been in a relationship for 3 years and is living what seems to be a pretty hum-drum life….until her roommate sublets her room out for the month to a hot Italian named Tiziano. The book is a super short quick read and basically shows how one woman’s life changes when she becomes… infatuated. I thought this was a really good book and gave a very real perspective about just what it means to be infatuated.
http://bookpusher.com/book-review/dec...
September 16, 2012
Review to come in a few days
October 28, 2021
I was always told that if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.
January 4, 2013
Just about everyone has experienced infatuation. It is completely based on what the eye sees, yes? It is not what the brain knows or experience or time tell. It is the flame that lights the fuse, I suppose. The fuse either lights and burns or fizzles out. There is something enough there that makes the heart beat a little faster, the mind wander. No one stops to think why but instead pauses and wonders why not.
Helen Hayes is looking for someone to sublet her roommate’s room while her roommate is out of town for a month. Her roomie, Marleen, thinks that Tiziano Conti fits the bill perfectly. He rubs Helen the wrong way, though, dropping crumbs on her floor and asking about wireless internet. He’s the best candidate, though, and it’s only for a month. Of course, he complains about the lack of cable TV and leaves the front door open. Helen makes a helpful list of Dos and Don’ts so she can handle his invasion better.
Inviting Tiziano to join her and her friend one day for pizza, they discuss her always-traveling boyfriend, Mark, whether Helen has affairs, and Dante’s Divine Comedy. The more she gets to know Tiziano, the more she is drawn in. As with all infatuations, they must change and decisions must be made. Is she willing to trade the familiar with Mark with the new and exciting?
In Merce Cardus’ second novel, the book is arranged into three sections:
Sexual Tension - Kindness
Hunger - Merging
Infatuation - Separation
With almost a clinical eye, this is practically a step-by-step guide showing how someone moves from zero to gaga. The impersonal and objective manner of the storytelling lets the reader see how it happens (the deconstruction) without becoming sucked in with messy feelings for either main character. You really just want to know how it ends up.
I feel like I should be saying something very erudite and scholarly; that I should be writing something here that shows my ability to comprehend not only the story but the psychology, too. Unfortunately, I can't. What I can say is this: it was an enjoyable experience and it made me want to read Dante.
3 of 5 Stars (Based on Ink and Page’s Rating System)
Genres: Adult Contemporary Romance
Deconstructing INFATUATION by Merce Cardus was published June 1, 2012 by CreateSpace. A free copy of this book was given to Ink and Page in return for an honest review.
Helen Hayes is looking for someone to sublet her roommate’s room while her roommate is out of town for a month. Her roomie, Marleen, thinks that Tiziano Conti fits the bill perfectly. He rubs Helen the wrong way, though, dropping crumbs on her floor and asking about wireless internet. He’s the best candidate, though, and it’s only for a month. Of course, he complains about the lack of cable TV and leaves the front door open. Helen makes a helpful list of Dos and Don’ts so she can handle his invasion better.
Inviting Tiziano to join her and her friend one day for pizza, they discuss her always-traveling boyfriend, Mark, whether Helen has affairs, and Dante’s Divine Comedy. The more she gets to know Tiziano, the more she is drawn in. As with all infatuations, they must change and decisions must be made. Is she willing to trade the familiar with Mark with the new and exciting?
In Merce Cardus’ second novel, the book is arranged into three sections:
Sexual Tension - Kindness
Hunger - Merging
Infatuation - Separation
With almost a clinical eye, this is practically a step-by-step guide showing how someone moves from zero to gaga. The impersonal and objective manner of the storytelling lets the reader see how it happens (the deconstruction) without becoming sucked in with messy feelings for either main character. You really just want to know how it ends up.
I feel like I should be saying something very erudite and scholarly; that I should be writing something here that shows my ability to comprehend not only the story but the psychology, too. Unfortunately, I can't. What I can say is this: it was an enjoyable experience and it made me want to read Dante.
3 of 5 Stars (Based on Ink and Page’s Rating System)
Genres: Adult Contemporary Romance
Deconstructing INFATUATION by Merce Cardus was published June 1, 2012 by CreateSpace. A free copy of this book was given to Ink and Page in return for an honest review.
July 17, 2012
Originally posted on Breath of Life Reviews.
Though Deconstructing Infatuation is a work of fiction, the scenes that take place and the situations that the characters find themselves in are not. They are all too common in today's world. Author Merce Cardus does an amazing job of making the me question not only the characters' motives but my own. It's easy to judge and condemn Helen Hayes for her actions in the beginning, and her choices and at times sheer stupidity made me almost stop reading the book.
Thankfully I didn't stop reading because Deconstructing Infatuation made me question my own behaviors and actions. Would I really make what many consider the "right" choice and avoid temptation all together? Is it really a bad thing to have a fling with a man you're physically attracted to without girlish fantasies getting in the way? What about the fallout that will inevitably happen if you happen to have a significant other? Not everyone has the same answers, heck, not everyone can answer these questions but the point is, they're out there, these situations and questions happen every day to many people, men and women alike.
While the book's blurb claims it isn't about unfaithfulness, you can't help but see that that is what is happening. A woman is being unfaithful to her significant other and you wonder "Is there any scenario where that doesn't blow up in her face?"
Deconstructing Infatuation is not your HEA romance novel. At least, I didn't see it as one. It's a nitty, gritty, realistic take on life's relationships and the ups and downs that can occur. After all, no one has any where near a perfect life.
So if you're looking for something a little more realistic and relatable, then by all means, pick up a copy of Deconstructing Infatuation and read it. You'll enjoy it because it's one of those books that has you thinking long after you're done reading it. However, if you're a fan of the redeemable characters and the HEA, then you'll want to skip this book. I for one, liked it for what it is instead of criticizing it for what it wasn't.
Though Deconstructing Infatuation is a work of fiction, the scenes that take place and the situations that the characters find themselves in are not. They are all too common in today's world. Author Merce Cardus does an amazing job of making the me question not only the characters' motives but my own. It's easy to judge and condemn Helen Hayes for her actions in the beginning, and her choices and at times sheer stupidity made me almost stop reading the book.
Thankfully I didn't stop reading because Deconstructing Infatuation made me question my own behaviors and actions. Would I really make what many consider the "right" choice and avoid temptation all together? Is it really a bad thing to have a fling with a man you're physically attracted to without girlish fantasies getting in the way? What about the fallout that will inevitably happen if you happen to have a significant other? Not everyone has the same answers, heck, not everyone can answer these questions but the point is, they're out there, these situations and questions happen every day to many people, men and women alike.
While the book's blurb claims it isn't about unfaithfulness, you can't help but see that that is what is happening. A woman is being unfaithful to her significant other and you wonder "Is there any scenario where that doesn't blow up in her face?"
Deconstructing Infatuation is not your HEA romance novel. At least, I didn't see it as one. It's a nitty, gritty, realistic take on life's relationships and the ups and downs that can occur. After all, no one has any where near a perfect life.
So if you're looking for something a little more realistic and relatable, then by all means, pick up a copy of Deconstructing Infatuation and read it. You'll enjoy it because it's one of those books that has you thinking long after you're done reading it. However, if you're a fan of the redeemable characters and the HEA, then you'll want to skip this book. I for one, liked it for what it is instead of criticizing it for what it wasn't.
September 2, 2012
Deconstructing Infatuation by Merce Cardus is a brief novel, slightly less than 150 pages. It's a romance of sorts, in that it deals with the possible relationship between bookish Helen Hayes and dashing Tiziano Conti, an Italian visiting New York for the marathon. The book proposes to deconstruct infatuation through examining the relationship of two unlikely and radically different people.
Helen is a down-to-earth book editor working for a New York literary agency. She lives her routine and quiet life doing her job and seeing her sometimes-present boyfriend Mark until Tiziano disrupts her life by subletting her roommate Marleen's bedroom during her absence.
Cardus is a good writer; she handles the relationship between Helen and Tiziano with some skill. The plot has some issues. The relationship between Helen and Tiziano seems to develop almost overnight with little build-up. The boyfriend Mark never really makes an appearance. His actual presence in the story would have made for a much richer romance. It's easier to accept deception against someone not present.
I liked both Helen and Tiziano, but I might have found them more endearing if I had a clearer picture of their motivations. Helen is the stronger of the two characters and there's more detail regarding her life. Tiziano could be any man. Cardus barely fleshes out his character. What does he do for a living? What's his life like back in Florence? He doesn't appear to be an athlete, but he's come all the way from Florence to see the New York Marathon. Why? These and other questions made it hard for me to love Deconstructing Infatuation. Still, I think the book rates 3 stars for the skill of the author.
Reviewed by Creative Ink Romance Reviews.
Helen is a down-to-earth book editor working for a New York literary agency. She lives her routine and quiet life doing her job and seeing her sometimes-present boyfriend Mark until Tiziano disrupts her life by subletting her roommate Marleen's bedroom during her absence.
Cardus is a good writer; she handles the relationship between Helen and Tiziano with some skill. The plot has some issues. The relationship between Helen and Tiziano seems to develop almost overnight with little build-up. The boyfriend Mark never really makes an appearance. His actual presence in the story would have made for a much richer romance. It's easier to accept deception against someone not present.
I liked both Helen and Tiziano, but I might have found them more endearing if I had a clearer picture of their motivations. Helen is the stronger of the two characters and there's more detail regarding her life. Tiziano could be any man. Cardus barely fleshes out his character. What does he do for a living? What's his life like back in Florence? He doesn't appear to be an athlete, but he's come all the way from Florence to see the New York Marathon. Why? These and other questions made it hard for me to love Deconstructing Infatuation. Still, I think the book rates 3 stars for the skill of the author.
Reviewed by Creative Ink Romance Reviews.
August 5, 2012
For more of my reviews visit: http://losttobooks.blogspot.co.uk
Rating: 2.5
I'll start by saying that when I received a request to review Deconstructing INFATUATION I was quite excited to read it. From the description it sounded like it wasn't going to be a normal romance story that sugar coated everything and it wasn't. This book was realistic and therefore intrigued me as I wanted to see how the story would develop outside the normality of the romance genre.
The story follows Helen's life and how it is turned upside down by her new room mate Tiziano but for me there was a lot of detail missing. The book was fast paced but I found myself quite confused by the constant jumping around as I never really felt it went into enough description to help me understand. I would have liked to know more about the character's backgrounds to help me connect to the characters as I always felt distant from the story and never got lost in it.
This book (well it's really more of a novella) doesn't necessarily have a happy ending but I didn't mind that, it made a change from the 'they lived happily ever after' ending and kept in line with the realistic nature of the book. However for me it felt very rushed and didn't give a definite resolution, I would have liked to know a bit more about what each character did after and how they coped with the situations they find themselves in.
Overall I liked the initial idea and concept, the book kept me hooked but that was only because I was hoping that the story pick up and go somewhere, which in the end never happened. For me the story needed more detail and description as it seems a little rushed in places.
Rating: 2.5
I'll start by saying that when I received a request to review Deconstructing INFATUATION I was quite excited to read it. From the description it sounded like it wasn't going to be a normal romance story that sugar coated everything and it wasn't. This book was realistic and therefore intrigued me as I wanted to see how the story would develop outside the normality of the romance genre.
The story follows Helen's life and how it is turned upside down by her new room mate Tiziano but for me there was a lot of detail missing. The book was fast paced but I found myself quite confused by the constant jumping around as I never really felt it went into enough description to help me understand. I would have liked to know more about the character's backgrounds to help me connect to the characters as I always felt distant from the story and never got lost in it.
This book (well it's really more of a novella) doesn't necessarily have a happy ending but I didn't mind that, it made a change from the 'they lived happily ever after' ending and kept in line with the realistic nature of the book. However for me it felt very rushed and didn't give a definite resolution, I would have liked to know a bit more about what each character did after and how they coped with the situations they find themselves in.
Overall I liked the initial idea and concept, the book kept me hooked but that was only because I was hoping that the story pick up and go somewhere, which in the end never happened. For me the story needed more detail and description as it seems a little rushed in places.
October 12, 2012
This review is going to be a tough one. As tough as it was to rate this novella. Why? Because I was so indecisive on how I felt about this story and how it was written.
The story itself was very interesting and entertaining. Helen seems like a simple down-to-earth girl, content with what is going on in her life... A mediocre, and not very deep relationship with a boyfriend that travels too much, and she barely sees. She shares an apartment with her friend Marleen. When Marleen has to leave for a month, they decide to sublet Marleen's room to Tiziano, who appears to be a dashing Italian cultured type of man. They both clash at first, then suddenly their relationship changes to the romantic, and an affair begins.
So... sure, the story is interesting.... and entertaining... but I had a real issue with how it was delivered.
The best way to describe it is... it felt awkward. The conversations were awkwardly written. The dialogue didn't feel natural, and at times rushed. It was short novel, and I am taking it into account... but it felt superficial, and it didn't come across with the deep emotional chaos that would result from this triangle.
I understood the message behind this story. I can even say that I truly did enjoy the storyline itself. But this book needs a good edit to iron out the wrinkles.
So I really did struggle with the rating, just as I am struggling with the review. I pondered, and pondered...
And I would have to say that, for me, it was just ok.
*I received a eBook copy of this book for free to review from the author; this in no way influenced my review, all opinions are 100% honest and my own.*
May 21, 2013
"Deconstructing INFATUATION" by Merce Cardus was good. Helen, who is currently in a relationship, but her boyfriend travels 350 days out of the year needs a roommate. Her current roommate, Marleen, is getting married to her boyfriend so she needs to feel the vacancy. Tiziano comes and checks the room, and they pick him. Helen is not sure how to feel about him at first...actually she just doesn't plain like him, but soon they start spending time together, and she finds herself starting to like him. Maybe have feelings for him.
Tiziano is so different from what she's used to. He's daring, romantic, passionate and actually wants to be around her. He also teaches her about herself, what she likes and what she's possibly missing. Little does she realize, Helen is starting to fall for Tiziano. She believes it's love, but really it's only infatuation. He came into her life and woke her up, so to speak. Showed her what she really wanted and how she was inside. It goes so deep that, after the month that he is only renting, she wants to go back to Italy with him, leaving everything behind. Helen's friend, Emily, tries to tell her that this will pass, but Helen doesn't believe it until Tiziano doesn't come back at all.
I did enjoy reading "Deconstructing INFATUATION." Ms. Cardus helped shed light on the fact that someone new can come into your life when you least expect it and "practically force" you to realize what you've been missing and actually wanted in your life all along. Personally, I was able to relate to this story. I think we've all been infatuated with someone at some point in our lives.
I give it 3 stars.
Tiziano is so different from what she's used to. He's daring, romantic, passionate and actually wants to be around her. He also teaches her about herself, what she likes and what she's possibly missing. Little does she realize, Helen is starting to fall for Tiziano. She believes it's love, but really it's only infatuation. He came into her life and woke her up, so to speak. Showed her what she really wanted and how she was inside. It goes so deep that, after the month that he is only renting, she wants to go back to Italy with him, leaving everything behind. Helen's friend, Emily, tries to tell her that this will pass, but Helen doesn't believe it until Tiziano doesn't come back at all.
I did enjoy reading "Deconstructing INFATUATION." Ms. Cardus helped shed light on the fact that someone new can come into your life when you least expect it and "practically force" you to realize what you've been missing and actually wanted in your life all along. Personally, I was able to relate to this story. I think we've all been infatuated with someone at some point in our lives.
I give it 3 stars.
February 24, 2013
When her roommate leaves for a month, Helen sublets her bedroom to a handsome stranger. Tiziano Conti is insolent, passionate, and mysterious. Irritated by his lack of respect, Helen wrestles with how to handle him. In the process, she loses her usual control and succumbs to infatuation, putting her job, relationship, and emotional stability at risk. Using Dante’s Divine Comedy as a metaphor for her own experience, Helen has to plumb the depths of hell to discover herself, beauty, and truth.
Deconstructing Infatuation is an intelligent examination of how infatuation propels us out of our comfort zones and into vulnerability. In that moment, we are forced to face truths we had shirked and allow alternative life constructs to appear.
The author’s voice is educated and thoughtful. Her characters are interesting and her exploration of idea sophisticated. At times, however, the idea is difficult to discern. Though the story is compelling, the writing is often flawed. I found it challenging to follow idea and plot consistently.
Excess dialog and poor character development at the book’s onset deterred my ability to engage. As the book unfolded, I became engrossed. Cardus’ writing requires polish, but I think she has some good things to say. I would encourage her to develop her writing skills and look forward to future works.
Deconstructing Infatuation is an intelligent examination of how infatuation propels us out of our comfort zones and into vulnerability. In that moment, we are forced to face truths we had shirked and allow alternative life constructs to appear.
The author’s voice is educated and thoughtful. Her characters are interesting and her exploration of idea sophisticated. At times, however, the idea is difficult to discern. Though the story is compelling, the writing is often flawed. I found it challenging to follow idea and plot consistently.
Excess dialog and poor character development at the book’s onset deterred my ability to engage. As the book unfolded, I became engrossed. Cardus’ writing requires polish, but I think she has some good things to say. I would encourage her to develop her writing skills and look forward to future works.
August 5, 2012
This book was given to me by Merce Cardus in return for an honest review. It is a book told from Helen’s point of view. The book begins with her room mate; Marleen having to go out of town for a month, so she needs someone to rent her bedroom until she comes back. A lot of people view the room, but they end up taking an Italian man named Tiziano as Helen’s new roommate.
I liked Helen’s character at the beginning. She seemed up tight and a clean freak at first however, it was once she starts her short lived romance with the new roommate; Tiziano that my opinion of her diminished. She becomes a carefree person, not particularly caring for anything except the need to be with Tiziano. I particularly didn’t like that transition of Helen’s personality. I understand it was a short book and hence why the author needed to fit in the transition as quickly as possible, but that’s just it, it was too quick! I wanted to smack Helen for jumping straight into the deep end. She decided to make some pretty wrong decision just based on her fling with her new roommate....I mean talk about not having a back bone! Read the rest of my review here: http://bookathonfreak.blogspot.co.uk/...
I liked Helen’s character at the beginning. She seemed up tight and a clean freak at first however, it was once she starts her short lived romance with the new roommate; Tiziano that my opinion of her diminished. She becomes a carefree person, not particularly caring for anything except the need to be with Tiziano. I particularly didn’t like that transition of Helen’s personality. I understand it was a short book and hence why the author needed to fit in the transition as quickly as possible, but that’s just it, it was too quick! I wanted to smack Helen for jumping straight into the deep end. She decided to make some pretty wrong decision just based on her fling with her new roommate....I mean talk about not having a back bone! Read the rest of my review here: http://bookathonfreak.blogspot.co.uk/...
February 22, 2013
Infatuation indeed! What I truly enjoyed is watching Helen's attitude towards Tiziano change from hostility and distance into infatuation and love.
I thought it was great for Helen to be exposed to a free spirit like Tiziano, and to learn to laugh at herself, and to take chances. I love that they have a common love of books and that through the short weeks that they were together as roommates, they were able to discuss more intimately about matters of the heart.
Although I enjoyed reading this story, I did wish that it were a bit longer to give the characters an opportunity to show how their relationship blossoms, rather than making it seem as if it happened over the course of a few days. I also thought it would've been very fun and calculating to have Helen's boyfriend Mark around more often, to create some more conflict in the plot line.
Overall, I think that this book is really good!
I thought it was great for Helen to be exposed to a free spirit like Tiziano, and to learn to laugh at herself, and to take chances. I love that they have a common love of books and that through the short weeks that they were together as roommates, they were able to discuss more intimately about matters of the heart.
Although I enjoyed reading this story, I did wish that it were a bit longer to give the characters an opportunity to show how their relationship blossoms, rather than making it seem as if it happened over the course of a few days. I also thought it would've been very fun and calculating to have Helen's boyfriend Mark around more often, to create some more conflict in the plot line.
Overall, I think that this book is really good!
February 21, 2014
Weak writing, with forced conversations. Besides that, I wasn't able to get into it. Put it down at the 35% mark.
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