rubywarhol's review against another edition
3.0
It was a good book but it could've been better. The tone was very conversational with lots of dialogue. The characters were likable but not very fleshed out. The universe it is set in seems interesting and the author's ideas are new and unusual, but it basically reads like watching a reality show, with simple, flat language and one-dimensional emotions.
I liked the casual criticism of misogyny, including less obvious societal structures, to the point that I sometimes got so angry at the fictional TV team's ruthless and disrespectful attitudes that I had to stop reading. The women in this show are told how they're meant to pleasure their partners, comply to beauty standards, "make an effort" and look perfect 24/7 as if it's nothing, but make sure not to have any expectations for their partners because "men don't like pressure", be confident but not too confident, and never complain (but also don't expect him to know what's wrong). It was all a bit too real to be read without a lump in my throat. But I definitely agree with the criticism.
The anxiety / panic attack awareness scene was sweet as well, it was handled in a very calm and healthy way. I also liked how the author made a point of including women of different ages, race, and situations, with different lifestyles in mind, being good enough in their own way.
All in all it was good for a light summer read if you're prepared to occasionally throw the book on the floor and have a moderate fit of rage.
-----------------------------------------------
Spoiler:
the majority of the characters is single at the end. The feminist in me loved it, the romantic in me hated it.
I liked the casual criticism of misogyny, including less obvious societal structures, to the point that I sometimes got so angry at the fictional TV team's ruthless and disrespectful attitudes that I had to stop reading. The women in this show are told how they're meant to pleasure their partners, comply to beauty standards, "make an effort" and look perfect 24/7 as if it's nothing, but make sure not to have any expectations for their partners because "men don't like pressure", be confident but not too confident, and never complain (but also don't expect him to know what's wrong). It was all a bit too real to be read without a lump in my throat. But I definitely agree with the criticism.
The anxiety / panic attack awareness scene was sweet as well, it was handled in a very calm and healthy way. I also liked how the author made a point of including women of different ages, race, and situations, with different lifestyles in mind, being good enough in their own way.
All in all it was good for a light summer read if you're prepared to occasionally throw the book on the floor and have a moderate fit of rage.
-----------------------------------------------
Spoiler:
the majority of the characters is single at the end. The feminist in me loved it, the romantic in me hated it.
amyspag's review against another edition
2.0
2.5 - none of the characters felt like real people, especially the male ones. I just kept waiting for the moment that they had an aha moment that they were caricatures of what a real person is and that they could be multifaceted and still deserve love and respect. Nope, sporty stayed sporty, housewife stayed housewife, countless chauvinists stayed chauvinist and the main character stayed having absolutely no substance or backbone apart from a couple of snide comments to her ex
blissbubbley's review against another edition
4.0
Helly Acton’s debut novel, “The Shelf,” is a delightful rom-com that will have readers laughing out loud and swooning with delight. With its witty humor, relatable characters, and heartwarming storyline, this book earns its well-deserved four-star rating.
The story centers around Amy, who finds herself unexpectedly dumped on national TV. Determined to prove her ex wrong and regain her confidence, she embarks on a quest to complete the infamous “shelf challenge” - finding a partner within a month. What follows is a hilarious journey of self-discovery, filled with outrageous dating escapades and unexpected twists.
One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in Acton’s comedic writing. The author infuses the narrative with sharp, clever humor that elicits genuine laughter. From witty banter to comedic mishaps, “The Shelf” strikes the perfect balance between hilarity and heartfelt moments, leaving readers entertained and fully invested in Amy’s romantic misadventures.
The characters in “The Shelf” are wonderfully relatable and endearing. Amy’s determination, vulnerability, and self-deprecating humor make her an engaging protagonist. The supporting cast, including her eclectic group of friends and quirky potential suitors, adds depth and charm to the story. Acton effortlessly captures the dynamics of friendship, showcasing the importance of support and camaraderie in navigating the ups and downs of love and life.
The romance aspect of the book is both sweet and satisfying. As Amy navigates the dating world, readers are treated to a range of humorous encounters and romantic entanglements that keep them guessing until the very end. The author skillfully crafts chemistry and tension between characters, delivering swoon-worthy moments that will make rom-com enthusiasts’ hearts flutter.
While “The Shelf” is an undeniably entertaining read, some readers may find the plot predictable or wish for further depth in certain storylines and character arcs. However, the novel’s laugh-out-loud humor and heartwarming moments more than make up for any minor shortcomings.
In conclusion, “The Shelf” is a laugh-out-loud funny and heartwarming rom-com that delivers on its promise of entertainment. Acton’s witty writing, relatable characters, and feel-good storyline make this book a joy to read. If you’re seeking a lighthearted and hilarious escape, “The Shelf” is a delightful choice that deserves its four-star rating. Prepare to laugh, swoon, and root for Amy as she discovers that love may be found in the most unexpected places.
The story centers around Amy, who finds herself unexpectedly dumped on national TV. Determined to prove her ex wrong and regain her confidence, she embarks on a quest to complete the infamous “shelf challenge” - finding a partner within a month. What follows is a hilarious journey of self-discovery, filled with outrageous dating escapades and unexpected twists.
One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in Acton’s comedic writing. The author infuses the narrative with sharp, clever humor that elicits genuine laughter. From witty banter to comedic mishaps, “The Shelf” strikes the perfect balance between hilarity and heartfelt moments, leaving readers entertained and fully invested in Amy’s romantic misadventures.
The characters in “The Shelf” are wonderfully relatable and endearing. Amy’s determination, vulnerability, and self-deprecating humor make her an engaging protagonist. The supporting cast, including her eclectic group of friends and quirky potential suitors, adds depth and charm to the story. Acton effortlessly captures the dynamics of friendship, showcasing the importance of support and camaraderie in navigating the ups and downs of love and life.
The romance aspect of the book is both sweet and satisfying. As Amy navigates the dating world, readers are treated to a range of humorous encounters and romantic entanglements that keep them guessing until the very end. The author skillfully crafts chemistry and tension between characters, delivering swoon-worthy moments that will make rom-com enthusiasts’ hearts flutter.
While “The Shelf” is an undeniably entertaining read, some readers may find the plot predictable or wish for further depth in certain storylines and character arcs. However, the novel’s laugh-out-loud humor and heartwarming moments more than make up for any minor shortcomings.
In conclusion, “The Shelf” is a laugh-out-loud funny and heartwarming rom-com that delivers on its promise of entertainment. Acton’s witty writing, relatable characters, and feel-good storyline make this book a joy to read. If you’re seeking a lighthearted and hilarious escape, “The Shelf” is a delightful choice that deserves its four-star rating. Prepare to laugh, swoon, and root for Amy as she discovers that love may be found in the most unexpected places.
amelia1601's review against another edition
4.0
i enjoyed this book a lot more than i thought i would. it has such an interesting premise of a reality tv show from an insider perspective - i would definitely recommend
lisathomas23's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
thedevilsivy's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
mysticmegs's review against another edition
5.0
I LOVED this book; it was such a feel-good book that made me smile from ear to ear, and it included some really important issues that I think everyone needs to read.
andreastopit's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
neshasurya's review against another edition
4.0
funny and relatable books about the bullshit of this patriarchal society. if you like reality tv and chick lit this is the perfect book for you.
satir tentang sekumpulan perempuan di umur 30 yg 'susah diatur' pacar atau suaminya sampe akhirnya masuk reality show dan sekolah jadi 'perempuan yg baik'. bacanya berhasil bikin kesel dan pengen marah-marah sama standar ganda yg ada di masyarakat.
ini adalah gambaran yang sangat brutal tentang bagaimana pada tahun 2023 perempuan masih diharapkan menjadi segalanya. ibu yg sempurna, istri yg sempurna, tubuh yang sempurna, rumah yg sempurna, alias menjadi segalanya tapi... gak boleh terlalu berisik, gak boleh keras kepala, gak boleh terlalu menuntut, gak boleh terlalu seksi tapi tetap seksi, dan gak boleh lebih sukses daripada pasangannya. sad truth :(
banyak komentar kayak fat shaming, slut shaming sampe seksisme yg kita tau banyak kita dengar dari masyarakat. kalau tujuan bukunya buat pembaca gak nyaman, tentu aja sukses ya. tapi untungnya buku ini juga fokus sama female friendship dan gimana seharusnya kita bersikap.
alexa, play the man by taylor swift.
satir tentang sekumpulan perempuan di umur 30 yg 'susah diatur' pacar atau suaminya sampe akhirnya masuk reality show dan sekolah jadi 'perempuan yg baik'. bacanya berhasil bikin kesel dan pengen marah-marah sama standar ganda yg ada di masyarakat.
ini adalah gambaran yang sangat brutal tentang bagaimana pada tahun 2023 perempuan masih diharapkan menjadi segalanya. ibu yg sempurna, istri yg sempurna, tubuh yang sempurna, rumah yg sempurna, alias menjadi segalanya tapi... gak boleh terlalu berisik, gak boleh keras kepala, gak boleh terlalu menuntut, gak boleh terlalu seksi tapi tetap seksi, dan gak boleh lebih sukses daripada pasangannya. sad truth :(
banyak komentar kayak fat shaming, slut shaming sampe seksisme yg kita tau banyak kita dengar dari masyarakat. kalau tujuan bukunya buat pembaca gak nyaman, tentu aja sukses ya. tapi untungnya buku ini juga fokus sama female friendship dan gimana seharusnya kita bersikap.
alexa, play the man by taylor swift.