My second Rainbow Rowell book did not disappoint! I’m excited to read Carry On next. It took me awhile to write this review as the book reminded me far too much of how much I missed my best girlfriend. But I knew I’d have to finish it some day, so here we go…

Attachments

by Rainbow Rowell

Published 2011

Format: Paperback
Genre: Chick-lit
Rating:  3.5/5 Moose

Synopsis 

Set in 1999, this book bounces back and forth between two perspectives — emails between Beth Fremont and Jennifer Scribner and regular proses revolving around Lincoln O’Neill, the IT guy hired as “Internet Security Officer,” which really means monitor the company’s emails. In theory, this book is told entirely from Lincoln’s point of view, as the emails between Beth and Jen are ones that get flagged as having issues. He knows he should write them up, get them to stop using emails for such personal communications, but instead he begins to feel involved in their lives and problems, and maybe even falling in love with Beth.

And how do you go about meeting the girl of your dreams when you know way too much about her?

Characters

Lincoln O’Neill – A nerdy, shy, hulking IT guy. Lincoln is stagnant in life, unable to move forward despite his numerous college degrees and potential. He currently works as the Internet Security Officer for a newspaper company. He also lives at home with his over protective mother.

Beth Fremont – A journalist who writes movie reviews. She is in a long term relationship with Chris, her college beau, a musician of a popular local band.

Jennifer Scribner – a copyeditor for the newspaper. She’s married to a guy named Mitch who definitely wants more kids while she’s forever on the fence.

Rant, Raves, General Thoughts 

Like I said earlier, this review is well overdue. 99% of the women’s interaction in this book comes from emails, and the emails were quite reminiscent of my conversations with my best friend Laura, who I happen to work with as well. I’m not kidding — I ended up calling Laura and reading her parts of the book, as well as sending her screen shots until I’m sure she was ready to kick me. All the chill sides of Beth and Jen represent Laura, while all the panic rants from both are representative of myself.

And I really miss my best friend, despite the constant communication.

I liked that this book was a mix of writing styles, and I was glad to have a chick-lit book from a guy’s perspective. That being said, I really didn’t care for the love story in this book. I didn’t dislike it per se; it was more of a take it or leave it kind of story for me. I found the book, with all the relationships, mistakes, and whining, to be quite realistic (obviously). Well, except that Lincoln turns out to be a stud with all the makings of a very nerdy guy. I’m not sure if I am buying that… (though if they are real, I’ll take one please.)

Verdict

I like Rainbow Rowell, as it turns out. I am excited to read Carry On next. If you are looking for an easy read, give it a shot.