Summer Book Club Series: Hope In A Jar Review

Hope in a Jar by Beth Harbison is the second novel to be reviewed in our  summer book club series. I have to say that I enjoyed this book, but found it on the slower paced side, as well as predictable. But that's not to say that it was poorly written or lacking in entertainment. The novel was craftily written in two different perspectives, and switches in narration between it's two main characters: Allie Denty, and Olivia Pelham. Both characters used to be best friends in High School, but have a falling out that is not revealed completely until near the end of the novel. They both live drastically different lives except for their mutual friend Noah, and that each woman is missing something from her life, but can't seem to figure out exactly what it is. Through their High School reunion, which both are dreading, but also bring up memories of happier times they are pushed towards reconciliation for a friend's sake. The novel is about empowering women and how each women can feel empowered in different ways. Sometimes all it takes is a little makeup.

Scale 1-10: I give the novel a fair 6. It is not a novel I would say to a girlfriend oh my gosh you have to read this! But if you're looking for an easy beach read I would recommend this book. Allie's character is humorous, and Olivia's character brings the melodrama. I also like how they used make-up and its advertising as quotes to begin each chapter with.

About the author: Beth Harbison is the New York Times bestselling author of Shoe Addicts Anonymous and Secrets of a Shoe Addict, so I hope to eventually read some of her other work.

Here is what other's have to say about her novel Hope In A Jar:

"Harbison continues to wow readers with charm and genuine characters."
--Booklist

"...fun nostalgia for those of us who loved Bonne Bell Lip Smackers and Sun-In."
--Fort-Worth Star Telegram

"Harbison creates vivid, convincing characters and handles them well.
--Publishers Weekly

"...as slick and enjoyable as a brand-new tube of lip gloss."
--People

I'm already reading my next novel, and I'll give you the inside scoop...it is awesome! I can not put it down. So keep reading, and don't forget to leave comments and we'll discuss!

Stay Lovely,

D.R

Editor and Curator of

Dusk & Rubies