Did you finish last month’s book club pick, The Girl on the Train? I haven’t. (Procrastination is a real problem for me. I promise, I’m going to catch up!) But, In the Drink by Kate Christensen is next on my list. It’s actually been at the top of my list for a long time – it was recommended to me by my friend and mentor Michele, who is one of the most brilliant writers I know. We have a lot of favorite novels in common, and she loves Maria Semple as much as I do. She told me a while ago this book is a must for anyone who loves Ms. Semple’s writing, and I’ve been meaning to pick it up since. And after the dark January and February books, I’m ready for something fun and funny. So, this month I am finally reading In the Drink!

It’s about Claudia, a woman nearing 30 who dreams of becoming a novelist while serving as a secretary and ghostwriter to the socialite boss from hell. She’s in love with her best friend who might be gay, while her ex (a married, unpublished poet) is still hopelessly in love with her. I’m told it is hilarious, and the pursuit of becoming a “real” writer and maintaining that belief in oneself even when things don’t go according to plan is certainly something that rings true for me, so I am excited to read it. Thank you for the recommendation, Michele!