For me, January 1st is one of my favourite days of the year, simply due to new year resolutions; a slightly tipsy bid to change your entire life by the time the evening rolls round again. 'Write that novel, go to the gym three times weekly and save the world' are just some of the usual goals on the annual-to-do list. But hardly any get done.
Just like Leni Lomond; a twenty-something I could relate to in the latest offering from the hilarious Shari Low (author of The Motherhood Walk of Fame). Excited at the prospect of the year ahead, Leni vows to change her life for good - by finding the perfect job, the perfect man and the perfect life.
Leni's resolutions are normally broken within days, but not this time - pretty soon, she finds herself landing a job as PA to Zara Delta, TV astrologist and crazy lady to boot. Zara's zany ways are sometimes hard to endure, and she's not exactly the peace-loving, quiet astrologist that she makes out to be on TV, either. But Leni needs the job, and if working for the demanding Zara is what she has to do, then she'll do it. Besides, it's a start to her fabulous new life. Not to mention the perk of working in the presence of handsome Conn, Zara's son.
But when Zara reveals her latest moneymaking project - a dating bible - Leni soon finds herself unwillingly dragged into the research.
The project requires Leni to date twelve men - each a different sign of the zodiac. Reluctantly, she agrees...besides, dating twelve strangers can't be that bad...can it?
Cue the mishaps, including a gay footie fan and his mouthy mum, a game addict and a nurse who seems positively perfect...except for the little issue of his girlfriend.
Leni's mission to find a man isn't exactly turning out so peachy. But there's still time - after all, she has a whole year...
And can she still find the perfect job?
A Brand New Me is a great read. Not as funny as Shari's previous novels, but amusing and aspirational nonetheless. As a fellow resolution-maker, Leni's self-promises and actions seemed rather familiar. Shari's writing style is addictive and fun, and already I can't wait for her next offering.
Rating: 5/5
