Helpful Score: 2
THE ESPRESSOLOGIST is, admittedly, not a literary work of art. There are one-dimensional characters, uneven pacing, plot holes so large you can fit your arm through them...and yet I had a rollicking good time reading it. It's a quick and lighthearted read perfect for stressful times when your brain doesn't want to handle anything too difficult.
The best part about THE ESPRESSOLOGIST is its premise--and no, I don't mean that in a critical way. The frothy idea of THE ESPRESSOLOGIST means that the book didn't need extraordinary characterization or writing to make me appreciate it as what it is: a 100% fun chick lit read. Jane's "Espressology" is richly detailed, clear evidence that the author knows her way around coffeeshop orders and various personalities.
It's true that, aside from Jane (who has characterization issues of her own), the rest of the characters never develop beyond their "labels". It's worrisome when characters can be summed up with a quick phrase. Likewise, Jane's own romance completely lacks buildup and chemistry, and the happy ending is rather rushed and unrealistic. Nevertheless, I found THE ESPRESSOLOGIST to be an entertaining read. Pick it up when you want a light read, and see if you don't find yourself wishing you were a frequent coffeeshop customer at this Wired Joe's!
The best part about THE ESPRESSOLOGIST is its premise--and no, I don't mean that in a critical way. The frothy idea of THE ESPRESSOLOGIST means that the book didn't need extraordinary characterization or writing to make me appreciate it as what it is: a 100% fun chick lit read. Jane's "Espressology" is richly detailed, clear evidence that the author knows her way around coffeeshop orders and various personalities.
It's true that, aside from Jane (who has characterization issues of her own), the rest of the characters never develop beyond their "labels". It's worrisome when characters can be summed up with a quick phrase. Likewise, Jane's own romance completely lacks buildup and chemistry, and the happy ending is rather rushed and unrealistic. Nevertheless, I found THE ESPRESSOLOGIST to be an entertaining read. Pick it up when you want a light read, and see if you don't find yourself wishing you were a frequent coffeeshop customer at this Wired Joe's!
Reviewed by Jennifer Rummel for TeensReadToo.com
Jane had a crazy idea - she started writing down the types of coffee people ordered and created personality characteristics based on their drink of choice.
At first, it was just something she did in her spare time at the coffee shop where she works. But when a regular customer comes in with news that he's now single, Jane looks through her book of coffee matches to find him the perfect date. When she does the same for her co-worker, Jane realizes that she's found something unique.
Unfortunately, when her boss overhears her and her BFF talking about the results, he forces the truth out of them. Then he realizes Jane's talent will be perfect for their holiday promotion idea. She will set up couples who walk in and order coffee based on their drink choice and one tidbit of information.
Jane's freaked out when she's put on the spot. Will this be the best promotion ever - or will Jane die of humiliation?
THE ESPRESSOLOGIST is a cute romantic tale perfect for the winter season. I love the cover; it grabbed my attention right away. Throw in friendship drama, work issues, and a dash of school with the romance and you've got yourself a fun read with a side of coffee craving.
Jane had a crazy idea - she started writing down the types of coffee people ordered and created personality characteristics based on their drink of choice.
At first, it was just something she did in her spare time at the coffee shop where she works. But when a regular customer comes in with news that he's now single, Jane looks through her book of coffee matches to find him the perfect date. When she does the same for her co-worker, Jane realizes that she's found something unique.
Unfortunately, when her boss overhears her and her BFF talking about the results, he forces the truth out of them. Then he realizes Jane's talent will be perfect for their holiday promotion idea. She will set up couples who walk in and order coffee based on their drink choice and one tidbit of information.
Jane's freaked out when she's put on the spot. Will this be the best promotion ever - or will Jane die of humiliation?
THE ESPRESSOLOGIST is a cute romantic tale perfect for the winter season. I love the cover; it grabbed my attention right away. Throw in friendship drama, work issues, and a dash of school with the romance and you've got yourself a fun read with a side of coffee craving.
