The Big Love

Unabridged
Author: Sarah Dunn
Narrator: Eliza Foss
Genres: Fiction
Publisher: Highbridge Audio
Date: July 2004
Length: 5 hours, 45 minutes
Ratings:
Formats:
  • CD

Overview

A fresh and hilarious debut novel about commitment, competition, and the occasional joys of unencumbered sex, for readers of Pride and Prejudice to The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing. Sometimes being left in the lurch is the best thing that can happen to you. Alison Hopkins's live-in boyfriend, Tom, goes out in the middle of a dinner party to buy a jar of mustard, then calls her from a pay phone to tell her he won't be coming home. He's left her for his beautiful ex-girlfriend Kate Pearce, the kind of woman about whom men say rhapsodically, "She's like a drug." Alison had always feared that Tom's looks would land her in trouble--having a handsome boyfriend is like having a white couch, an invitation to disaster.

But if Tom isn't her Big Love, who is? Alison embraces her freedom, buys "hiking boots and lacy underwear," and sets out on a stroll down the midway of love. From an eye-opening fling with her new boss to an unexpected proposal from an old friend, Alison samples love's many varieties--all the while talking obsessively with her girlfriends, comparing stories, and working through a lifetime of conflicting beliefs about trust, faith, and commitment. In spite of (or perhaps because of) her neuroses, Alison finds a surprising kind of triumph--and an irrational faith that the Big Love may be nearer than it appears. Sarah Dunn wrote on the staff of Murphy Brown, Veronica's Closet, and Spin City before leaving TV to write this novel. She lives in New York City.

Reviews (6)

Just so-so

Written by Anonymous on April 13th, 2008

  • Book Rating: 3/5

The Big Love was laugh-out-loud funny at times. Overall, a very light "read." Good to pass a few hours with. However, I found the author's voice annoying, especially when she was trying to make a point. Also, Alison's boyfriend, Tom, was a total dud and not a likable character. I would definitely listen to the next book by this author, but only if its read by a different narrator.

All Around Bad

Written by Mel Johnson on June 26th, 2007

  • Book Rating: 1/5

This author lacked the fundamental skills of story-telling and character development. Out of the several characters that was introduced there wasn't one character that was likable, especially the main character. The point of the tangents she goes into is to give you insight on her personality and emotions, but it failed to make the character likable. In order for a reader/audience to sympathize with the main character, she has to be likable or at least if she doesn't start out likable, she has to have redeemable qualities. It would be more enjoyable to follow Alison as she develops her character arc, but in this book the character arc is force-fed to you. The author had to tell you that she learned something and that she has changed, but doesn't give you the satisfaction of embarking on the journey along with Alison. Also, the reader for this audio book incorrectly accentuates certain parts of the dialogue which makes it annoying and not a pleasurable listen.

So-So Love

Written by Anonymous from Lincolnshire, IL on May 27th, 2006

  • Book Rating: 2/5

I liked this book at times and wanted to fast forward during other times. I find her ever present tirades on religion to distract from the story, as opposed to adding to it. I've found anecdotes about growing up Christian, Catholic, Jewish, etc to be very funny, but these just seemed to be trying too hard and are very unfunny. For me, I like this genre of book but this seemed to be too much of same-ole, same-ole that we've heard before.

BIG LOVE

Written by Joseph Cordeiro on July 22nd, 2005

  • Book Rating: 1/5

I found this book very unpleasant to listen to ,the story wandered never getting to the point

Big (Yawn) Love

Written by Kim Todd from Woodbury, MN on June 1st, 2005

  • Book Rating: 2/5

I found this book to very, very light (as in not very interesting). I like lightness and humor but this one lacked substance - not that I was looking for a deep read. Also, the author's continued tirade on Christianity and the principles of those who believe is extremely offensive.

Big Love

Written by Anonymous on March 12th, 2005

  • Book Rating: 5/5

This book was sweet and adorable. A nice "read". I often found myself laughing out loud in the car! For anyone who has been through the trials and tribulations of love, you will find it amusing and and stress free when you get home from the long drive from the office.