Secrets to Happiness by Sarah Dunn

Holly Frick is 30-something, recently divorced, writer and just down in her luck. Through Holly we meet several of her friends, Amanda - married with a year and a half old baby and at the brink of entering into an affair; Betsy - close to 40, still single and trying hard not to stay that way; Spence - one of Holly’s ex’s with female troubles due to his womanizing ways; and then there’s Leonard - Holly’s work partner who is extremely dissatisfied with life. All of them reside in New York and through conversations and their daily interactions you get a nice glimpse into what these hectic lives are about.

This is one of those books where every time a new character is introduced the story spans out into their own chapter with their own storylines. So yes, there are multiple stories happening at the same time, but once you’re past the confusion of who is who, they really start to grow on you. These are average people who are discontent with their lives, trying to better themselves and doing their hardest to find happiness.

Although I really didn’t relate to any of the characters, I really enjoyed this one. Sarah Dunn is one funny lady. I found myself laughing out loud - some parts were just hilarious. I truly enjoyed the great dialogue and admired Ms. Dunn’s ability to get into the heads of both men and women. Her characters were all broken in one way or another but they were also witty, humorous and just plain fun.

There was one line that really touched me:

"You keep walking, and you keep breathing, and then one day

you notice again, the feel of the wind on your cheek."

So if you’re in the mood for something fun, intelligent and with a great sense of humor (sounds like the perfect man, doesn’t it? haha) then this is the book for you. Plus, who can resist that spectacular cover? You know me, I’m a sucker for a good cover.