Sunday, September 25, 2011

Salting Roses - Week 2 (Chapters 2 & 3)

Welcome to another installment of our "online book club." We are reading the novel, Salting Roses.

Here is our discussion on chapter 1 if you need to catch up.

I am going to do a pro/con list this week.

I want to start by saying that overall I do think it is a cute story line, but that being said . . .

Cons:
I have to agree with Laurie from last week that the Southern charm seems a little "off." It is definitely like a person who is not from the South is trying too hard.
I have yet to fall in love with any of the characters. Usually by this point in a book I have taken a serious interest in what happens to at least one of the characters - not true this time. They are all pretty much in the same place.
I can definitely deal with unrealistic plot lines, but someone not wanting 650 million dollars. I mean come on, Gracie, get real.
I am still a little uncomfortable with the fact that her two uncles live together, but one is still married to the lady who lives next door.

Pros:
I am definitely interested (although I am pretty sure I already know what is going to happen) in the relationship between Gracie and Mr. Fontana.
While completely unrealistic, I do admire Gracie's love for the simple life.
I can see the storyline really picking up speed if they take it a certain way. Not sure they will, but there is definitely potential.
It is an easy read . . . not too much thought needs to be expended while reading it. There is definitely something to be said about mindless reading.
Favorite quote so far is at the end of the third chapter when Gracie begins to tell Harriet about Mr. Fontana. She says, "No. He has a cocky sort of grin that makes me feel . . . " And Harriet answers, "Like a woman?" Isn't that so true . . . You can't help but like a little cocky in your man.

What did you guys think?
And do we want to add another chapter this week? I am going to post about chapters 4, 5 & 6 next Sunday. That is around 30 pages. Let me know in the comments if that is too many. I don't want to drag it on too long, but also want everyone to feel like they have a chance to keep up.
Happy Reading!

2 comments:

  1. $650 million dollars? Ridiculous. That. is. so. much. money. My favorite character is Harriet, she sort of reminds me of my grandmother. She keeps it real. And, I think I am going to bring back the phrase, "well hell's bells." It's a good one, right?

    Oh, and yes - I have yet to figure out the relationship between Ben, Artie, and Alice. So strange. Married man living with another guy, and not his wife? That would NEVER happen in Alabama.

    I do love the mindless reading and I am looking forward to chapters 4,5, & 6. See you next Sunday!

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  2. Laurie, you rock. So far you get the "best book club contributor" award. I love your comments. Thanks, girl!

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