The Fabulous Emily Briggs

This is a wonderful book that lifts up the blanket of Manhattan to expose what truly goes on. Through the eyes of Emily Briggs, the reader learns of relationships, careers, friendships and the lifestyle that makes this vibrant city truly tick. The character's funny asides on what she sees is what distinguished the book on my shelf.

After reading Escape from Bridezilla, I did the reverse prequel order and read The Fabulous Emily Briggs. The two novels in this series are variations on the same themes: a young modern woman trying to stay grounded in the shark tank of Manhattan and a search for romance while maintaining your own identity. The dialogue is clever and funny. The great supporting cast exposes a fun character that readers will appreciate.

Having just completed the exhuberant sequel ("Bridezilla") to "Emily Briggs" I can't help thinking what an excellent pairing these two books are. Emily began adult New York life as a very believable, genuine and hip young woman. Her friendships and family life are that of a quintessential rising young star who can really be admired when considering all the trials one is typically subjected to. No she did not rise from the ashes of a burned out mobile home but rather , most amusingly, deals with life many of us are subjected to in an urbane setting . And deal with it she does...Emily is truly a Holly Golightly charachter possibly even headed for Auntie Mame hood. These are the type of portrayals that do wonders for fleshing out interesting personalities with a stinging dialogue that evokes a strong reaction from a reader like me. I loved "Emily" and was equally entertained by "Bridezilla"...what more is in the offing?

Just back-pedaled and read this Emily Briggs story after I read the second book. I recommend you stay in the same order considering I couldn't effectively approve a certain love triangle based on what I knew. Emily Briggs is another girl in the city who appears to be the only one that hasn't met the right guy. Even her safety guy, Dash Hatchiel, has met the ideal mate (she speaks five languages, nice, pretty too). It's difficult for Emily to feel that she has it all under control. But then she meets the guy, Henry Phillips, and it all starts to fall into place until Henry starts acting like, well, a guy. The great thing about Emily is she treats all her escapades with a sense of humor. She is smart, talented and not as frivilous as her friends. My favorite parts are with Emily and her best friend Dash, where she is true to herself and makes every scene sparkle. One of the funniest reads I've read in a while.

Finally a book that made me laugh out loud!!! Emily Briggs' zany (and self-deprecating) sense of humor is truly refreshing. I haven't come across a character like hers since Carrie Bradshaw. So if you liked Candace Bushnell's novels, you'll LOVE "The Fabulous Emily Briggs."The New York backdrop also makes for a fun and entertaining read. I was sad to finish it. Now I can't wait for the next Emily Briggs chronicle!!