As some of you already know, my friend Stephanie just published her third book, "Kissing Frogs." Last week I shared with you the book brunch we threw to celebrate this incredible accomplishment. Today, I want to talk to you about the book and give you a chance to win a signed copy.
I have to admit, I've been avoiding writing this post for a couple of days. Not because I didn't want to share the book with you, quite the opposite in fact. I think because the book and the person who wrote it mean so much to me, it's been really tough to articulate my thoughts. You only get one chance to review a book, you know?
That being said, let's travel together to the land of "Kissing Frogs" where bad dates are worse than you could ever imagine, nights with girlfriends are like oxygen and fairy godmothers really do exist (in the form of grandmothers).
"Kissing Frogs" is the story of Elliott Roux, a twenty-something girl living in Boston. Underwhelmed by her job, Elliott fills her free time with a much more colorful cast of characters.
Let's start with Dylan and Sasha, Elliott's roommates. Every night Elliott comes home to share the tales of her day with her two besties - Dylan, who plays pop songs on repeat and is always looking for the next party and Sasha, who would much rather veg on the couch and order in pizza. Despite their differences, the three girls share a love of one thing in particular: gossip.
On the nights she goes out after work, Elliott endures some of the worst dates I've ever had the pleasure of reading. A guy who likes to taser himself? A guy who attempts naughty things while you're sleeping? A guy who would rather snuggle with his cats than with you? The list goes on.
While many regard Sunday as the day of rest, Elliott reserves Sundays for her grandmother, affectionately known in the book as just "Gram." Together they share weekly picnics in the Public Garden, a love of animals and a deep devotion to the best meal of the week, brunch.
I don't want to spoil any of the scenes or chapters for you by giving away my favorite parts, but I will say, the moments I loved most in the book are either when Elliott and her gaggle of girlfriends are all together retelling stories from the night before or when Elliott goes toe to toe with her obnoxious mother, one of the most selfish characters I've ever met in a book.
What Stephanie brings to this book is the authentic voice of a single twenty-something just trying to figure it all out. What do I want to be when I grew up? Who will be the guy I settle down with? How do I process that my family is human and they make mistakes too, even the people I thought were perfect? She brings such a sincerity and truth to this story and these characters.
Now for the fun part! Stephanie has generously provided two signed copies of "Kissing Frogs" for two very lucky Pop.Bop.Shop. readers.
.jpg)
In addition to the signed book, you will also receive your very own "Kissing Frogs" tote bag with the book's hashtag on it.
I take my tote everywhere! Seriously, it's been all over Watertown and Boston. It's the perfect size for this book, your phone, your wallet, your keys and a king size bag of M&Ms.
To enter to win:
1. Like the Stephanie Blackburn author page on Facebook
2. Leave a comment below with your worst dating story
This giveaway will be open until Sunday 11/23 at 11:59pm ET. The winners will be contacted on Monday 11/24.
Good luck!
