Lessons in Duck Hunting
by Jayne Buxton
Published by Ballantine Books
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Reviewed by Andrea Sisco
The Chick Lit genre has exploded, and as a result, a lot of really good novels have been released--and some that are not so good. Happily, Jayne Buxton's Lessons in Duck Hunting is one that you won't want to miss.
Single, mother of two young children, Ally James, is disappointed in the life she's living. Her London job marketing marmalade is boring and her home life revolves around her children with nothing exciting or even remotely interesting happening personally.
At the post office she picks up a pamphlet titled "Are you raising children on your own?" It provides practical information, but the most glaring omission is a section to help find another man.
Life is unfair. In the two years since her divorce she has had two bad dates, while her former husband David's life is a revolving door of serial relationships.
Ally reluctantly decides to help her friend Mel with a magazine story on finding a partner. She signs up for a dating seminar where she just might meet a good man, or she could be embarking on a really bad plan that could result in disaster.
Ally's journey into the world of dating brings with it some interesting "men" experiences and she learns that she's perfect just as she is. And when her former husband takes notice of the new Ally, she must decide between the "old" and the "new."
Jayne Buxton's well-written novel will make you laugh, and it will make you think about your own life. Ally delicately balances children and career while looking for Mr. Right and learns that sometimes it is just a matter of taking a risk and taking control of your own future.
Armchair Interviews says: Lessons in Duck Hunting is the perfect beach read. You'll turn the pages as fast as you can and when the ride is over, you'll want more. This is a wonderful debut novel.