Thursdays In The Park. Hilary Boyd (2012) - Plot & Excerpts
I often choose books because I am drawn to the covers. Normally, I am not disappointed; not so this time. While the cover was attractive, I really did not like this story at all. I kept at it thinking that it would redeem itself or that I would change my mind, but no such luck.Being on the other side of 50, I enjoy stories about "more mature" women. We have stories to tell just as much as the young 20 and 30 year old. We still have adventures and strong emotions and we still have spunk. That is what drew me to the actual story. The back cover revealed that Jeanie, turning 60, is hurt and frustrated. Married for 30 years, she is turning 60. For the past ten years, George, her husband has refused to sleep in the same bed as Jeanie, and yes, that means they haven't been intimate in the period of time. It is not talked about, but it is the elephant in the story...over and over and over.Jeanie runs a small health food shop and she takes care of her two year old granddaughter on Thursdays as they visit the park together. Those two things keep Jeanie going as her resentment towards her husband builds and comes to a head when George decides that she will retire, they will sell the house, and they will move to the country. No discussion needed even though Jeanie hates the very idea.Jeanie meets a gentleman who also visits the park while his grandson is in his care. Guess what happens? After two weeks, the two fall in love. Only problem is, Jeanie has a husband. Should be faithful to him? Is it worth it? Can she really give up everything to please George? On and on and on goes her whining and whimpering and complaining and the reader begins to wonder if all her talk about "not being old" is just that. Talk. She sure doesn't put up much of an argument with George about their marriage and the odd relationship the two of them have. She has no spunk and seems to be even older than 60...and that's an insult to those energetic women I know who are definitely still going strong way beyond that age. For all her talk about youth, Jeanie doesn't come across as sincere or as though she believes what she herself says.I found the story boring, tedious, and with way too many "excuses" as everyone's miserable past is revealed--from Jeanie to George to Chanty, (the couple's daughter) to Alex, Chanty's husband. Then there was Rita, Jeanie's best friend, also in the 60 year old bracket who always gave Jeanie advice and pep talks and urged her to take a stand against George. Then when Jeanie finally does, Rita becomes almost hostile with her criticism and lack of support.And, ok. I am picking on a two year old; but the two year old granddaughter's speech development was over the top. No two year old I have ever known (now, remember I am "old" so I have known a lot of two year olds) speaks so clearly and in such intricate sentences. It was annoying and really didn't have much to do with the plot anyway.I don't like bashing books or authors. I could never write a book that would sell and I couldn't take the critics either; but I really did not like this book. And, once again, looking over other reviews...I'm one of the few who didn't like it. So, don't listen to me. Read it yourself. You may enjoy it. Loved this book. It first got my attention because the female main character was turning 60. The similarities did not stop there.It could be the story of my life from last summer until now... with the reversal of some roles.I rooted for Jeanie hoping she would make a certain decision - and when I thought she was going to stay status quo, I was depressed and stalled finishing the book. I was living my life through hers - in the world of fiction.But I loved the ending - it was not totally predictable. When Jeanie finally made the decision, there was no stopping her. She was sure. And finally - she was heard.
What do You think about Thursdays In The Park. Hilary Boyd (2012)?
Good, little slow moving at times but the story kept you interested.....
—lisa
Enjoyed this, nice to see some romantic adventure for someone older.
—aris
Great mid-life romance read. Definitely beach worthy.
—Victoria
