Dating DaVinci

Although this isn't normally the genre I read, I picked up Dating Da Vinci, and was absolutely hooked. I couldn't put it down, especially once the story really got going. Even the first few introductory chapters held my interest because of Malena Lott's clever and captivating writing style. The way Malena blended humor and sadness into this engaging, heart-warming novel was completely enjoyable. Her characters and the way they learned from one another gave the story an added element that I loved. I also love the way she threaded the language factor throughout and the comparisons to the actual DaVinci and Mona Lisa. One thing that made this novel even more appealing was how 'real' it felt, with Ramona's day to day life and her middle-aged woman issues. Although DaVinci himself was very sexy, I absolutely adored Cortland, and was worried about how it would all turn out, but the author managed to handle it expertly and logically, not to mention in a way where the reader can give a wistful sigh of relief, wishing the same happy ending for themselves. This novel is truly, completely captivating and delightful. I was sorry to see this one end.

I'm not one to read "chic-lit" -- however, I was intrigued by this novel's storyline and decided to give it a whirl. I'm so glad I did. "Dating da Vinci" is well written and smart. At times funny and at other times incredibly sad, it's a story of a young widow's somewhat topsy-turvy journey to reshape her life after tragedy. Malena Lott quickly drew me into Ramona Elise's story and her myriad emotions -- which includes the very real weight of guilt over finding (and even desiring) happiness. I enjoyed this book and I recommend it -- it's cute yet thought-provoking, and it's surprisingly clever.

How do I know this? Let me count the ways. If you're a relatively recent widow or widower, and trying to learn how to live all over again . . . If you're a slightly older woman wishing for a romance with a younger man . . . If you'd like to see how one can mix non-fiction and fiction into something altogether fascinating . . . If you're grieving for a lost romance, a lost marriage, a lost anyone . . . If you're a working single MOM, with kids and not enough money . . . If you've ever thought the grass just might be greener elsewhere . . . If you're interested in love and/or sex and the various ramifications thereof, regardless of your own age or sex . . . If you've ever given two seconds thought to the topic of 'body language' . . . If you've ever tried to cope with family holiday traditions when the composition of the 'family' has changed, through death or divorce--or both . . . Did I leave anyone out? It wasn't done intentionally, but if I did, not to worry. I'm quite sure you'd like it, as well. Dating daVinci is a sweet slice-of-life book that works well on every level, with numerous twists and turns before the inevitable, and rather surprising but very satisfactory, happy ending, which may not be exactly what you thought it would be. (A proof-reader might quibble over some of the boo-boos in the book, but we're basically grumps, anyway!) Read and enjoy!

A great read for any woman of any age. Get lost in the characters and storyline. Lott is very talented. Can't wait to read her next book.

An uplifting tale beautifully written. I couldn't put it down. Ramona's story will touch your heart. Malena Lott is a talent to be watched.