Summary
Big Girl Panties is a rollicking and poignant romantic comedy about a young widow who decides to get in shape...and winds up getting her groove back—and a whole lot more!

Holly Brennan used food to comfort herself through her husband’s illness and death. Now she’s alone at age thirty-two. And she weighs more than she ever has. When fate throws her in the path of Logan Montgomery, personal trainer to pro athletes, and he offers to train her, Holly concludes it must be a sign. Much as she dreads the thought of working out, Holly knows she needs to put on her big girl panties and see if she can sweat out some of her grief.

Soon, the easy intimacy and playful banter of their training sessions lead Logan and Holly to most intense and steamy workouts. But can Holly and Logan go the distance as a couple now that she’s met her goals—and other men are noticing?

Review
When I first saw the title of the book, it really peaked my curiosity to want to read. Since there was so much buzz surrounding the release of the book, I figure it must be worth the read. With a title like that, you know it would be a fun read.

Before I read the book, I read comments from readers about what they thought. I never do that but I was curious. I just want to begin this by saying in all fairness to the author, I think much of the criticism about her book was based on comparison to her aunt Janet and her body of work. Or, people keep referring this book compared to her previous series which she didn't write. As beloved as Janet Evanovich is, I don't think it is fair to compare this book to hers. They are two completely different writers.

So, let me give you a little bit to start with. We first meet Logan, your typical fitness trainer, physically fit and easy on the eyes. He is boarding on a place heading to NJ when this woman appears to be looking for her seat. Hoping it wouldn't be her, here comes Holly Brennan. Already feeling self conscious about her weight and seeing how good looking Logan was, having to sit next to him didn't make her feel any easier. Afraid to fly, it was a welcome surprise by Logan's attempt to calm her nerves and help ease the transition of takeoff.

After conversation a bit on the flight, being fate or coincidence, they happened to live near each other. There is something about her that is so intriguing that he offers her an opportunity to work with him to help her get her life back on track. Once she starts her journey, she proves to be one his best clients. Showing great results but kept hidden, it wasn't until one of his friends took her out and transformed her does she embrace her new look with a renewed sense of confidence which motivates her more. As her "outer beauty" started to match her inner, the more attention she started getting from other people, the more it started to get to him irritated. With this new sense of confidence, the dynamics of their relationship unspokenly start to change...This should be enough to get you started, I don't want to ruin your experience by giving away too much.

Overall, I enjoyed reading the book despite how I felt about some aspects of somcharacters that were not likable. As the book progressed, I was hoping that the plot would go a certain way. In some aspects it did and others it didn't but that is completely subjective to what intentions and expectations you have once you start reading their story. I think this is one of those books that will bring out some strong feelings from the reader positive and negative. For me, it made me laugh at times, roll my eyes with disgust (Logan), and blush a little. Yes, when it gets to those steamy scenes, she definitely has a way with words. So, if you are looking for something fun, light and easy to read, check it out.

Reviewed by Michelle Bowles

Book Information
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Publication date: 7/9/2013
Pages: 324

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