review of Melanie Jacobsen's Not My Type

WhAt TyPe ArE yOu?

I just finished reading Melanie Jacobsen's Not My Type, and I gotta tell ya, it feels pretty appropriate to sit here at my computer and write a review about it, considering that the main character, Pepper, does the same thing at her job as a grunt journalist.

I haven't read a book like Melanie's for so long, that I felt like a sponge, soaking up the language of teen-twenties' sarcasm. And the identity crisis that comes with a broken engagement?  Been there.  Done that.

As Pepper is trying to re-enter life as a single adult, I found myself pulling for her to hold on to her quirkiness (which she does), and reshape her attitude (which she also does).  This character is real and independent, and she grows with each chapter, as she follows her therapist/father's advice to show more gratitude in her life. I could have used that advice 25 years ago.  sigh...

The supporting characters in this book are fun and affirming, and the best part is that they each, directly and indirectly, play a part in Pepper's life getting back on track.  I am a supporting-cast kind of reader.  If a main character is developed fully that is well and good, but texture comes from everyone around her/him.  Texture galore here.

I found Melanie's voice on every page, having spent time with her before.  It was an honest book and one that will have mass appeal. Such a fun read!



11 comments

CB | September 22, 2011 at 4:45 PM

I love a good book recommendation! This doesn't sound like my typical read so it's going on my list!!

Welcome to the Garden of Egan | September 22, 2011 at 8:24 PM

That sounds like a fun book. I'll have to check it out!

Barbaloot | September 22, 2011 at 8:56 PM

I just finished it, and I got to meet Melanie today to have her sign it. She did a great job.

LisAway | September 23, 2011 at 12:06 AM

The supporting characters were important in her last book, too. I can't WAIT to read this one!!

Unknown | September 23, 2011 at 6:05 AM

I've seen a lot about this book on different blogs -- I'll have to add it to my Goodreads list.

Honey I'm Home Blog | September 23, 2011 at 10:39 PM

Hi Blog Friend, I had fun stopping by & reading your latest posts. I hadn't heard of this book - sounds interesting.

Warmly, Michelle

CiCi | September 24, 2011 at 5:00 PM

Would you say the book is mostly geared to the young adults? I got that impression in your post. Sounds like an interesting character though.

Grumpy Grateful Mom | September 24, 2011 at 9:15 PM

Sounds like a great book. I like to read books where I can root for the main character. And I like happy endings. I'm guessing this one would work perfectly. :)

Melanie Jacobson | September 24, 2011 at 11:51 PM

Aw, shucks, I'm glad you liked it! The supporting characters are usually more fun to write than the main ones, to tell you the truth.

Lara Neves | September 25, 2011 at 10:00 PM

I just finished it on Saturday, too. Loved it. Love Melanie's voice. Such a fun read!

Jenny Lynn | September 27, 2011 at 9:56 PM

I love book reviews. This does not sound like something I would read normally, but I think I will.