Book Review and Author Interview - Click, by Lisa Becker

Lisa Becker contacted me, asking me to review her book Click, which is written entirely in emails. I was intrigued because that's a similar format to a novella I wrote called Looking For Ward, and I wanted to see how she did it. The main character, Renee, goes on a lot of dates, and it hearing about it makes for an enjoyable story. And Becker really provided some great details. Some of the dates made me squirm, and some were lovely, but they always seemed real.

Writing a book in email format is a challenge, especially when it comes to exposition. I thought overall the character development and background information was brought about naturally and believeably. I understand there is a sequel to Click coming out soon, so there will be further development as well.

Overall I liked the characters. Shelly especially made me laugh, and Renee really held the story together. My one criticism is that some of her friend seemed to fit stereotypes like you would find on Sex and the City or other chick lit or chick flick types of material. That's a minor point though, especially in this type of book. It's meant to be fun, not ground breaking, and fun is what it is. If you're looking for a well-written, breezy novel that's a perfect fit for the new year, then look no further. Click will be a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

Keep reading for an interview with Lisa Becker, the author of Click.

 

1.) I like to do ten-word posts on my blog. Can you describe the story of your book in exactly ten words?

 Funny, modern epistolary story of dating and love via emails.

2.) What is the theme or the message of your novel, and how did you incorporate it into your writing?

 I’ve said many times before, if love happened for me, there’s hope for anyone.  And as my grandmother used to say, for every chair, there’s a tush.  My goal with Click was to create a fun read for anyone who has ever had a bad date, been in love, been dumped, or is searching for "the one." 

 

3.) Is there a book, song, television show or movie you can compare your novel to? If not, can you name some sort of influence or inspiration for this book?

 

Many years ago, I read a book called e by Matthew Beaumont which tells the story of a fictitious ad agency vying for a big account, with the story all told in emails.  I thought that narrative style would work really well for the story I wanted to tell about the online dating world.  It was a modern way of storytelling that fit the topic and the times. 

 

Some readers and reviewers have also compared the book to Sex and the City, which I find to be an enormous compliment.  I was a fan of the show and loved the relationship between the four main characters.  I looked to convey that kind of bond among the characters in Click, as there’s nothing like having a group of close friends who can support you when things get tough, laugh with you when things get ridiculous, console you when you’re down, and cajole you into doing things that they can see are good for you, but you are reluctant to embrace. 
 

4.) What would be the perfect meal to enjoy while reading your book? (Include dessert and beverage choice.)

 

I think this breezy story of love and friendship requires something healthy and light followed by something comforting and satisfying.  That being said, it would be best enjoyed with a fresh, organic green salad, followed by a bowl of gourmet macaroni and cheese and culminating with a chocolate cake with creamy, fudgy frosting.  A nice crisp white wine would suit it well too. 

 

5.) What do you do when you’re not writing? Can you name any ways that “real life” has influenced your writing?

 

While being a writer, I’ve simultaneously worn many different hats including: full time mom and wife to the best family ever; part time public relations professional for an international PR firm; part time professor of public relations courses at a state university in California; Girl Scout troop leader to a group of giggling girls; and school and community volunteer.  Needless to say, there’s never a dull moment around here.   

 

As far as real life influencing my writing, that’s a resounding yes!  My husband and I met online on a popular dating website.  After we married, I was recalling some of the hilarious experiences that I had with both traditional and online dating.  I decided to capture some of them in writing and from there, Click: An Online Love Story emerged.   The story is loosely based on my dating (mis)adventures.  While a true lady never kisses and tells, I can say the happy ending is real.  Steve and I have been happily married for nearly 10 years and have two amazing daughters - ages 7 and 5. 

  

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