Most of the way through this book, it was a 3 star for me...but the last third of the book, I found myself enjoying it more and wanting to get back to Edward's story. One of the reasons this book so appealed to me, was the NYC location. Having just been there, I am constantly thinking about uptown, west side in relation to my brother and sister-in-law's apartment. I enjoyed being able to place myself where they were talking about or at least knowing approximately where something might be. Although Edward missed his beloved wife, he didn't strike me as lonely. He had lots of interests and friends and family and for that, he seemed lucky and not desperate. I loved that he had intelligent and interesting friends. They talked about ideas. I look forward to an interesting book club discussion with very interesting women. I enjoyed An Available Man but I agree with other reviewers who said it could have been a bit shorter. For me it got flabby in the late middle of the book for several chapters dealing with one of the main character's new romantic relationships. I can pay this book my highest compliments about fiction: it felt very real, and I cared about the main characters. If it had been more interesting or had a more emotional climax, or packed a more emotional punch, I would have liked it even more. I enjoyed it... but not over the moon. The author is particularly adept at writing dialogue. A future screenplay? maybe...and I'd see that movie!An afterthought: Not Hilma Wolitzer's fault, but I want to add that I wish publicists would stop overselling books as "funny." (The same thing happens in the film industry.) This book is not funny. In a few places, I smiled gently in recognition...but it's not funny. And that's fine! Why set up prospective readers for disappointment, who are looking for a good laugh? It ain't here. And that's fine. This book is good, nice, realistic, interesting. But it's not funny.
What do You think about Un Hombre Disponible (2012)?
Cute story about finding love again...definitely worth reading:)
—imkatia
4 Stars..Kindle..I loved Edward, found the book charming..
—Katara93
Very good and fun read - second chances are good
—annachick123
Lovely. Very sweet, entertaining and funny.
—Rosiie
