Book Description
This training handbook was designed for use by all food service serving staff members. The guide covers every aspect of restaurant customer service for the positions of host, waiter or waitress, head waiter, captain, and bus person. The detailed performance of each position is described for different types of establishments, and all types of service including French, American, English, Russian, Family-Style and Banquet. It provides step-by-step instructions on:
• hosting
• seating guests
• taking/filling orders
• loading/unloading trays
• table side service
• setting an elegant table
• folding napkins
• centerpieces
• promoting specials
• promoting side orders
• handling problems
• difficult customers
• managing tips and taxes
• getting customers to order quickly
• handling questions
• handling the check and money
Plus, learn advanced serving techniques such as flambé and carving meats, fish, and fruits. It also features a chapter devoted exclusively to food safety and sanitation. Whether it's your first day on the job or you are a twenty year veteran you are bound to learn alot. Food service managers will find this book to be an excellent foundation for your organizations training program.
Customer Reviews:
Valuable Traing Tool.......2007-07-21
This book covers all of the details that are so often left out while training waitstaff and associated restaurant employees. We use it extensively for initial training and reference.
Easy to Use.......2006-06-16
Opening a dining establishment is complex. There are many different things that need to be taken into consideration from food costs to training of employees. For those who have never had a restaurant before, the training of employees could be a little intimidating, especially when it comes to those who interact with the customers and whose service could make or break the business, the wait staff. This book takes the bewilderment out of hiring and training these very important people.
The book is comprehensive and follows a logical pattern which eases the reader into the business almost effortlessly. It is an all inclusive book which details different jobs which make up the wait staff from hosting to bussing. Most of the book is centered on service of the tables though. It explains everything from how to set the table to presenting the check at the end of the meal.
There is a special section on how to deal with the youngest of the customers as well as important issues which the customer does not see such as side work and dealing with customer complaints and the difficult customer. There are even tips on laws that regulate the industry such as alcohol and IRS laws. As with any other job in the restaurant, safety and sanitation is also a very important part. Taking the complexity out of hiring and training of these employees is bound to help everyone out.
Also in Spanish.......2005-07-14
Just a note to say this book is also published in Spanish for students and staff members
An excellent guide!.......2004-10-26
This is an excellent book. It's very thorough and the section on alcohol service was especially good. Highly recommend!
Amazon.com
Sometimes an off-key phrase in a soulful song can wrench at the heart, nay, the soul and send one off into that same far-away place that a great book can take you to. Amanda Eyre Ward's second novel, How to Be Lost, provides for the reader with a finely-tuned ear, a nicely wrought, syncopated, octave-changing story. Featuring a hard-living, almost down-on-her-luck narrator, How to Be Lost isn't lost at all when it comes to telling a literary mystery wrapped in the arms of a strong woman's tale. Ward's story bounces between New Orleans and New York, taking her protagonist, Caroline, into steely encounters with her somewhat-estranged family, especially her older sister and mother, as they continue, many years after the fact, to deal with the wrenching effects of the unresolved disappearance of Ellie, the youngest of the Winters family. Readers may find uncanny similarities between the eerie tone and dark nature of Deborah Schupack's The Boy on the Bus but won't be disappointed at all with the story that unfolds and the clever, darkly humorous nature of Ward's pitch-perfect voice. --E. Brooke Gilbert
Book Description
Joseph and Isabelle Winters seem to have it all: a grand home in Holt, New York, a trio of radiant daughters, and a sense that they are safe in their affluent corner of America. But when five-year-old Ellie disappears, the fault lines within the family are exposed: Joseph, once a successful businessman, succumbs to his demons; Isabelle retreats into memories of her debutante days in Savannah; and Ellie’s bereft sisters grow apart–Madeline reluctantly stays home, while Caroline runs away.
Fifteen years later, Caroline, now a New Orleans cocktail waitress, sees a photograph of a woman in a magazine. Convinced that it is Ellie all grown up, Caroline embarks on a search for her missing sister. Armed with copies of the photo, an amateur detective guide, and a cooler of Dixie beer, Caroline travels through the New Mexico desert, the mountains of Colorado, and the smoky underworld of Montana, determined to salvage her broken family.
Customer Reviews:
Great read!.......2007-09-25
I could not put this book down. Even though the plot is a little predictable, there is something about the book that draws you in and you find yourself rooting for the happiness of the main character, Caroline.
Love Memory Keeper's Daughter? READ THIS BOOK!.......2007-09-21
I was a little wary to read Ward's second novel because I loved her first (Sleep Toward Heaven) so much I didn't want to be let down with a one-hit-wonder. Not to worry! The characters in this book are so real and so well defined you'll feel you know them. Ward's writing is so beautiful, sometimes you just have to re-read to look at the words again! If you're reading the reviews here, you already know the basic plot so no need to rehash here. The sisters left behind in this novel each live with their pain in different ways but you can sympathize with both. Some reviewers have complained about the ending. I do not. Not all books are going to wrap up every detail for you and that's OK with me. Your imagination has to take over. Loved the book; loved the ending; ready for Ward's next novel. If you loved Memory Keepers Daughter, or anything by Anita Shreve, chances are good you will love How To Be Lost... or probably anything by Amanda Eyre Ward.
A Good 1-Sitting Read.......2007-09-18
It's possible I read "Missing Mom" by Joyce Carol Oates too recently to judge "How to Be Lost" on its own merits. Both involve a family tragedy (and in the book's main timeline) that leaves a mother on her own and leaves her daughters (the good daughter and the daughter who is adrift) trying to define their relationship with her and with each other.
The aspect of "How to be Lost" that was most powerful to me was the description of the three girls in their youth - trying to raise themselves and pretend as if they had parents. (They do - but the dad is an abusive alcoholic and the mom only dresses the part). My parents were divorced at an early age and as the oldest, I felt like I was raising my brother and sister sometimes. That responsibility and forced maturity of a child is powerfully described here and brought back some strong memories. This type of family situation creates a whole new bond with one's siblings - which in my case has been a wonderful one. I'm not sure if I would say the same for Caroline's situation.
Beyond that - I felt like the plot followed pretty standard lines - will the family ever truly start to heal, will Caroline be able to move forward in her life, will Ellie be found... and I wasn't surprised by the ending. Still - I enjoyed Ward's prose a great deal - I am not one for flowery descriptions. Also - I was lucky enough to read the book in one sitting - turning the pages faster as I reached the end.
Though I did like the way Ward uses flashbacks, letters and first person narrative to give more depth to the story - I felt like the book was strongest when the reader was hearing Caroline's voice. The letters from Agnes never really rang true for me - I thought parts of them were cheesy and I just didn't buy into the sexy pictures.
All in all - it was a good read. I enjoyed the book and was I ever going on a trip and wanted a good book to take on the plane - I would pick up one of Ward's.
Great Book, Lousy Ending!.......2007-09-16
I adored this book until I was left hanging at the end. I felt so cheated I was angry and tempted to write the author. I never did because she wrote it years ago and figured what did she care about it now. I didn't know how many stars to give it. How about this? Five stars until the last page.
Just Ok.......2007-09-09
After reading "A Sleep Toward Heaven" I was really looking forward to reading this book. Unfortunately I felt let down during the reading and it seemed that the ending was just too abrubt. It was no where as good as "A Sleep Toward Heaven". Hope her next one is better.
Book Description
The new Sookie Stackhouse novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Dead as a Doornail.
Spiked with a "frothy fusion of romance, mystery, and fantasy" (Publishers Weekly), this "deliciously fiendish...increasingly riotous series" (Dallas Morning News) sends the supernaturally gifted cocktail waitress to New Orleans, where she has to deal with the legacy of one of her own family and a host of potentially dangerous characters.
Customer Reviews:
definately dead.......2007-09-12
Definitely dead does not describe her books! Try laugh out loud fun, sex, humor and surprise as elements that makes Charlaine Harris one of my favorites in the chick lit fantasy and supernatural realm.
Sookie.......2007-08-27
If you are already a Sookie and Bill fan, this book will blow you away! It is fast paced, and you see a side of Sookie and a side of Bill you would never believe. If you are new to the Southern Vampire series, you definitely need to start with "Dead Until Dark." Ms. Harris has such a way of pulling you into the world of the supernatural, you don't realize you have left the "real world." Believable characters are what makes this series one that you will want to read over and over again. I cannot wait to see what Sookie and her friends have gotten themselves into next.
THE BEST!.......2007-08-23
OMG! I can't wait until the next in the series comes out! I love them all!! Sookie is the best!
DEFINITELY READ THIS!!!!.......2007-08-19
In another delightful Sookie whodunit, Sookie is given the sad news that cousin Hadley, also a member of the undead, has actually died again (permanently) in New Orleans. Being the only heir, Sookie realizes that she has to go to New Orleans and clean out her cousin's apartment. Sookie soon finds out that Hadley was actually the consort of the Queen of New Orleans--who is soon set to marry.
It doesn't take Sookie long to discover that her cousin had a lot of secrets--hiding, literally, in closets and other places. But there is someone lurking who would rather that Hadley's secrets stay just that--secret. In addition to the mysteries concerning her cousin, there are revelations regarding Sookie's own personal life. And could there be a new romantic interest?
In another installment sure to keep readers turning the pages, this is another delightful paranormal whodunit from the author of this wonderful genre mix.
DYB
Sookie's Backkkkkk.......2007-07-27
Sookie Stackhouse, barmaid and telepath, is back in this sixth installment of the Southern Vampire Mysteries, and things are, as usual, tense in Sookie's corner of the world. Contacted by Louisiana's vampire queen, Sookie discovers that her estranged cousin, Hadley, has been murdered and Sookie needs to come to New Orleans to deal with her estate. Of course, this is Sookie Stackhouse we're discussing, so things are not as simple as they seem. Add in some demons, the vampire king of Arkansas (why does that make me laugh?), weres of every shape and size, witches, fairies, Sookie' regular stable of friends and acquaintances, and the three hot guys currently vying for her affections, and we've got a standard, fun-filled addition to the series.
Definitely Dead is definitely delightful; Sookie discovers some things about herself and her family tree, and she assists in locating a missing child, thus putting her skills as a telepath to use in an arena besides the magical world. Upon reflection, however, I'm still not sure why that episode was added, though it was interesting. Otherwise, the action is almost non-stop, and Sookie once again is in mortal danger more than once. She's begun a new relationship with Quinn, the sexy weretiger, but she finds out devastating information about Bill, her former vampire lover. What's a telepath to do?
This is a worthy installment in this laugh out loud, engaging series, if a few minor questions still need answering. Sookie is managing herself well, and the set-up is there for the next book when Sookie will be accompanying the queen to a conference. Personally, I miss Sookie's sexy relationship with Eric, and hope to see more of him in book 7. Light reading but fun, this one's just left me wanting more.
Book Description
This new series of fifteen books - The Food Service Professional Guide TO Series from the editors of the Food Service Professional are the best and most comprehensive books for serious food service operators available today.
These step-by-step guides on a specific management subject range from finding a great site for your new restaurant to how to train your wait staff and literally everything in between. They are easy and fast -to-read, easy to understand and will take the mystery out of the subject. The information is "boiled down" to the essence. They are filled to the brim with up to date and pertinent information.
The books cover all the bases, providing clear explanations and helpful, specific information. All titles in the series include the phone numbers and web sites of all companies discussed. What you won't find are wordy explanations, tales of how someone did it better, or a scholarly lecture on the "theory". Think of them as "Cliff Notes TM" on the subject matter.
Every paragraph in each of the books are comprehensive, well researched, engrossing, and just plain fun-to-read, yet are packed with interesting ideas. You'll be using your highlighter a lot! The best part aside from the content is they are very moderately priced. You can also purchase the whole 15 book series the isbn number is 0-910627-26-6. You are bound to get a great new idea to try on every page if not out of every paragraph. Do not be put off by the low price, these books really do deliver the critical information and eye opening ideas you need you to succeed without the fluff so commonly found in more expensive books on the subject. Highly recommended!
Customer Reviews:
Very useful for managers and owners.......2004-04-07
I Agree with the other good reviews totally disagree with the one negative review - it seems obvious he is helping to promote his own or a friends product !!
Great book - Disregard the One Bad Review.......2004-04-07
I found this to be a veryy helpful and well written book - There is one negative review I looked up the author and he went to every other book in the same area and wrote the same negative review and then told people about his book??? and gave the website, etc. all against Amazons rules
Great Book Wish Every Food Service Employee Would Read It !.......2003-05-31
Great !! Covers every aspect of restaurant customer service for the positions of captain, waiter or waitress, and busser, written by Lora Arduser an expert in the field. Get several for your staff members
Amazon.com
In a truly just world, everyone would have to wait tables for at least six months, just to know what it's like. Failing that, we have writer-waiter Debra Ginsberg's tasty memoir to remind us about life on the other side of those swinging doors. Horror stories? After 20 years of serving other people's food, she's got 'em--and being handed a drunk's vomit-soaked napkins certainly fits the bill. But even though she expresses the usual frustrations with bad tippers and control freaks, in the long run Ginsberg is anything but bitter. In fact, she recently left her publishing job to return to waiting tables, hooked on the freedom, spare time, and ready cash the lifestyle provides. Of course, there are other perks too. Sex thrives in the close quarters and steamy atmosphere of a typical restaurant (not to mention with the high-drama personalities who work there). Fans of Kitchen Confidential will be relieved to know there's as much bad behavior among the floor staff as there is in the back of the house. As in that book, Ginsberg also relates some eyebrow-raising tales about what can happen before your food gets to your table. (The moral here: "It really does pay to be nice to your server.") But Waiting is far more than just a sexual soap opera or a cautionary guide for dining out; it's also the story of one woman's coming of age, most of which just happens to take place while she's wearing an apron. During her tenure as a waitress, Ginsberg thrives as a single mother and comes into her own as a writer--and waiting (as she suggestively calls it) helps her do both. Most of us (including waiters) think of the profession as a stopgap, not a career, but what happens on the way to somewhere else, Ginsberg writes, is every bit as important as the final destination: "Perhaps the most valuable lesson I'd learned was that the act of waiting itself is an active one. That period of time between the anticipation and the beginning of life's events is when everything really happens--the time when actual living occurs." --Mary Park
Book Description
Many people can tell horror stories about their teenage or college stints waiting tables. For Debra Ginsberg, struggling writer and single mother, waitressing has been a means of survival -- and she has the scars to prove it.
In Waiting: The True Confessions of a Waitress -- part memoir, part social commentary, part guide on how to behave when dining out-Ginsberg takes readers on an intimate journey of her twenty years as a waitress at the dingiest of diners, a soap-operatic Italian restaurant, an exclusive five-star dining club, and more. While chronicling her parallel evolution as a writer and single mother, the book also takes a behind-the-scenes look at restaurant life -- revealing that, yes, when pushed, a server will spit in food, and, no, that's not really decaf you're getting-and at how most people in this business are in a constant state of waiting to do something else.
Colorful, insightful, and often irreverent, Ginsberg's stories truly capture the spirit of the universal things she's learned about human nature, interpersonal relationships, the frightening things that go on in the kitchen, romantic hopes dashed and rebuilt, and all of the frustrating and funny moments in this life. Waiting is for everyone who has had to wait for their life to begin -- only to realize, suddenly, that they're living it.
Customer Reviews:
A must-read for anyone in the industry.......2007-06-02
Anyone who has ever worked in any part of the restaurant industry, be they a server, bartender, cook or dishwasher will appreciate the years Debra Ginsberg spent in the trenches. Many of her tales from work will leave you nodding in agreement, and remembering stories of your own. Some of her stories will make you realize that you really don't have it as bad as it could be. This book reads like a soldier's-eye view of life on the food service battlefield, and from the first page you will not be able to put it down.
I was a waitress.......2007-05-29
This job is interesting enough to write a book about. It is physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding, it sometimes pays off and other times does not. You interact with a lot of people because of all the customers and the co-workers.
Dead on!.......2007-05-23
I have waited tables for 13 years and could relate to the author's plight from page one. I laughed and nodded my head in agreement thru the whole thing. The poor reviews of this book are written by people who have never waited tables before......another testament to the fact that everyone should, at some point in their lives. It is an occupation that breeds both compassion and hatred for the human race. This book paints a clear picture of the hell I put myself thru every night.....and why I keep going back for more. :)
Be Nice to Your Waitress.......2007-05-07
I think this book was great. I have always heard the work of a waitress is demanding, but never understood it to this book. After reading this, I have tried to tip way more generously!
A Solid Effort.....Maybe 4.4 Stars.......2006-09-04
Like the title says, this is solid effort. Ginsberg is much more polished than Anthony Bourdain. Not so shock value-oriented, either.
For me, FINE DINING MADNESS (by J. Galloway) is the champ as far as restaurant books go. Very funny, and gutsy. "Heat"is a three star book, but comes off a little phony.
Amazon.com
From Emma Bull's War for the Oaks to Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter series, from The X-Files to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, creators are mixing old European myths and legends with modern American pop culture. Incorporating influences ranging from blaxploitation movies and erotic novels to tabloid staples like UFOs and Elvis, authors and directors are creating a new mythology for the strip-mall, tract-house, cell-phone America of the new millennium.
One of the best-known and best writers of the new American mythology is Charlaine Harris. Dead to the World is the fourth novel in her Anthony Award-winning Southern Vampire series. It continues the story of psychic waitress Sookie Stackhouse, who has fallen out with her undead lover, Bill. Bill has no sooner departed for Peru, than Sookie finds the head vampire, Eric, running naked and terrified through the rural night. She helps Eric, and discovers his memory has been destroyed by a coven of unscrupulous, astonishingly powerful witches, newly arrived in her small Louisiana town, and offering a huge reward for Eric. Sookie tries to hide Eric, but her brother sees him--and immediately disappears. And Sookie finds herself caught in a war among witches, vampires, and werewolves. --Cynthia Ward
Book Description
"With the sure touch of a master" (Crescent Blues), Charlaine Harris delivers "the sort of vampire thrills that make Laurell Hamilton's Anita Blake novels so popular" (Locus). In Sookie Stackhouse-a Southern cocktail waitress with a supernatural gift-Harris has a created a heroine like few others, and a series that puts the bite back in vampire fiction. Now the hit series launches into hardcover for Sookie's biggest twist-filled adventure yet.
Download Description
"The fourth novel in the Anthony Award-winning Southern Vampires series... ""With the sure touch of a master"" (Crescent Blues), Charlaine Harris delivers ""the sort of vampire thrills that make Laurell Hamilton's Anita Blake novels so popular"" (Locus). In Sookie Stackhouse-a Southern cocktail waitress with a supernatural gift-Harris has a created a heroine like few others, and a series that puts the bite back in vampire fiction. Now the hit series launches into hardcover for Sookie's biggest twist-filled adventure yet."
Customer Reviews:
Definitely Dead.......2007-09-18
The book was great. For anyone who hasn't read about Sookie's adventures, your really missing out. Charlaine Harris writes about vampires as people. The stories are interesting,funny,and sometimes sad. I own them all to date. It's hard to put them down once you start reading. I hope Sookie has a long wonderful life, I look forward to reading about it.
Another Hit for Charlaine Harris.......2007-09-14
I started reading this series and found my hunger for them paramount to a vampires hunger for blood. Fortunately, I can read these in the daylight! These books are a wonderful mixture of sci-fi, detective novel and romance. Balancing all three must be hard work, but the balance works well.
This book brings in some different segments of the "supe" world. Sookie has her higher than normal share of bad luck. So you really pull for her. Will she find her brother in time? Will Eric replace Bill? Will Eric regain his memory? Will Sookie ever find love? You'll have to read to find out.
Make sure you start with book 1. I think you'll find this book as enjoyable as the others.
Love Sookie.......2007-07-23
I got started with these books b/c they had sparkles on the cover,
and became a fan.
Sookie is a warm funny character with brass...
The other characters are great too.
Yet More Supernatural Trouble for Sookie!.......2007-07-02
Throw in vampires, shapeshifters, werewolves, fairies, witches, a missing brother, and an ex-boyfriend who happens to be a vampire, and what do you get? Sookie Stackhouse's life! In Dead to the World, despite promises to leave the supernatural beings behind her, Sookie finds herself yet again caught up in the world of mystery of the undead. Thinking herself insulated against more interactions with vampires, Sookie is once again wrong as she discovers the sexy vampire Eric alongside the road on her way home from work on New Year's Eve. Only it's not the all-knowing, arrogant vampire she's used to seeing; Eric's memory has been erased and suddenly, he's a much kinder, gentler version of his former self. And what can Sookie do but agree to watch over him while his vampire circle try to chase down whoever has done this to him?
Lots and lots of supernatural beings populate this installment as we get our first look at witches, fairies, and werepanthers. Sookie's main concern, beyond taking care of the changed Eric (who grows sexier by the minute), is the sudden disappearance of her brother, Jason. Fearing the worst, the community goes looking for him but it's as though he's vanished without a trace. In her quest for her brother, Sookie sees for herself the devastation witches/werewolves can cause as the book builds toward a climatic battle between the local supes and a coven of witches determined to take over Area 5. And what on earth is the mind-reading Sookie doing in the middle of the battle? And how will she learn to live with herself if she, accidentally or not, causes death to a fellow human?
This book is indeed filled with many layers as Sookie's world expands with demands placed upon her. Sookie's very real devastation at losing her brother is tempered by her very real attraction to Eric, but will this version of Eric last? My one irritation with this novel is how much time Sookie spends crying, but at least there are legitimate reasons for it. Delightful and deadly, this is one of the best installments in this series yet. Recommended! On to number 5.
JUST W*O*W.................!!!!!!!.......2007-06-24
In Harris's fourth installment of her fabulous series, our darling Sookie has had a falling out with her vampire (ex?) boyfriend Bill...and in typical male fashion, he runs off to Peru on "business." To further complicate her life, Sookie rescues a naked and desparate Eric running down a dark country ride late a night. She stops for the "rescue;" and soon discovers that not only has Eric completely lost his memory, but that he is being sought by a coven of deadly and unscrupulous witches....who also happen to be vampire blood addicts. At Pam's request, Sookie agrees to hide Eric until the vamps can rid Bon Temps of the deadly coven; but this may prove deliciously dangerous to Sookie herself. How long can she deny the attraction held by the newly innocent and naive Eric? The tale climaxes in a "war" by the vamps and weres against the dangerous coven of witches....this one may be Harris's best yet.
DYB
Book Description
The Appetizer
Katie has lofty career aspirations that seem to change almost hourly: writer, film director, teacher, educational psychiatrist. In the meantime, she's waiting tables and waiting for "Mr. Right" to arrive out of the blue -- which seems unlikely, considering her romantic track record is as pitiful as her job history.
The Main Course
Still, a girl can dream, even when she's rushing a hot plate of linguini over to the nasty customer at table six. So when gorgeous, sensitive, perfect Dan Crichton asks her out, Katie's over the moon. But once again, commitment phobia rears its ugly head and dinner turns into the Great First Date Disaster -- and Katie's ideal romance is over before the goodnight kiss.
The Just Desserts
Things are tough when a woman wants it all and will not settle -- and has a little trouble making up her mind. But it's about to get really complicated for the Queen of Complications.
The Bill
Not only is Dan coming back -- as her new boss and engaged to someone else -- but persistent Ex-Boyfriend #3 Hugh's back too, with a vengeance. And suddenly there's a lot more on her tray than even the most able food service professional could safely handle ...
Customer Reviews:
Light and Fun. Great Summer Read!.......2007-06-10
It took me about 100 pages to get into this book. Once I did, I was hooked. This reminded me a little bit of "Amanda's Wedding" but it was much better. It is a story about Katie. Katie is a waitress and is trying to figure out what to do with her life. This book was had adjacent stories and expressions of feelings from the other characters. It made the book more interesting and unique. Although the main character was Katie, the author was very deliberate in detailing the lives of some of the other characters and what they were feeling about certain aspects of their lives and how it related to the main plot. Nathan did a very good job with this. As a reader, I didn't feel like these tributaries were unnecessary. They added to the enjoyment of the book. I am definitely interested in reading more books by this author. Well done!
fun times.......2006-08-21
The one thing I learned about reading this book, never assume anything! Each person in this book gets themselves so mixed up by not telling the truth of exactly what's on their minds and they assume the worst of each other. This is a really entertaining book and I'll definitely be ordering more of Melissa Nathan's books!
It starts off following the main waitress, Katie, through an engagement party of a good friend of hers. You're quickly introduced to the remaining characters and are given a chance to read through their eyes. So throughout the book, you know what each character is thinking, it makes you insane that they just don't open up to each other about feelings and setting the record straight on events! This story is basically a tale about Katie finding herself through the help of her Great Aunt who she gets to know just in the nick of time. I would definitely recommend it.
Waiting Around.......2006-01-17
Having read all of Melissa Nathan's novels, I can say that she is just as pithy and delightful as ever. Nathan's books have an energy and verve which move the pace along quickly, making the reader not want to put down the book until they are finished with it. Reading one of her books is like curling up to watch one of your favorite comedies unfold.
Nathan's latest novel, "The Waitress", tells the story of twenty-four year old Katie Simmonds, an Oxford graduate who works as a waitress while she is 'waiting' to find the perfect job. The perfect job seems to come along each week when Katie's mind alights on something she thinks she'd like to do, but isn't brave enough to risk a commitment to. And lack of commitment is a problem in her personal life as well. She's just walked out on a date with the only man she's liked, only to discover that he's her new boss, and he's already dating someone else. But that doesn't seem to stop him from showing interest in her, or is she just mistaken?
"The Waitress" is Melissa Nathan's latest "chick-lit" offering, a genre that I tend to ignore. Yet Nathan manages to rise above most of the other fodder this genre offers by making her characters believeable and intelligent. While the stories are predictable - yes, we know that the girl will find the right guy and they'll live happily ever after - the in-between time is peppered with wit, frustration, and amusing subplots that keep the reader interested even when they know how it will all turn out.
Dan is not the man.......2005-05-31
I gave this book three stars since the writting was good and I did laugh a bit, but the romance was not good, and since this was not a romance book I guess that means I should take everything into acount. But honestly I wanted to like this book, and I just couldn't. The main idea is that Dan and his friend buy aresturant and the it follows the lives of each of the employees and Jon who is the flatmate. I wasn't expecting so many stories so this was a little agrivating to. Anyway Dan had a horrible date with one of his new emplyees, and even though besides the date and one party he still felt stronly enogh about her to freak out and get back together with his witchy ex because she was such a bad date. He kisses and longs for his new employee even as he is engaged to another women, he admits that he doesn't love his fiancee but has no real intentions of breaking it off because he is to scard to be single. Basicly he is a gutless losser and on that alone not worth much. The book is well written and you will laugh but don't expect to fall in love with Dan he is just not worth it.
Charming and very funny.......2005-05-17
Katie Simmonds got her degree from Oxford, then froze, unable to decide what to do with her life. Or rather, she decides what to do--for a day or two. Her roommate has helped her write sixty resumes, for the dream of the moment. In the meantime, she and her actor-best friend Sukie work as waitresses in a cheap cafe. When Katie finally meets her dream man, she is torn with indecision, unable to talk to him at all, and bolts halfway through their dinner date. She doesn't dream that Dan the dream man is about to come the new owner of the cafe--and her new boss.
Katie wrestles with her growing attraction for Dan, and with her self-doubts and concerns for her future. In the meantime, Sukie tries to get acting jobs, Matt the dishwasher falls for beautiful and perfect Jennifer, and brainless waitress Patsy flirts with equally brainless (but talented) chef Nik. Adding to Katie's problems, though, Dan has gone back to his old girlfriend--and that girlfriend quickly makes the right noises to move from girlfriend to fiancee.
Author Melissa Nathan keeps the laughs coming as Katie and Sukie turn being super-rude waitresses into something that appeals to the crowds, as Katie wards off advances from drunk ex-boyfriend Hugh, and as Matt wrestles with overgrown pimples that erupt just as he is about to enter into the perfect date with beautiful Jennifer.
Too often, it seems like the world expects the twenty-something to know what to do. But school, even a degree from Oxford, can offer precious little practical direction--and it is easy to become trapped in a job. Of course, sometimes that job-trap can actually become something more.
Fans of humorous England-set chick-lit will definitely want to add this one to their must-read list.
Book Description
Witty, wonderful, and quirky romance from the USA Today bestselling author!
Jen Maitland never had any use for handsome guys with easy charm until she met Zach. He's the perfect fake date to end her mother's matchmaking scheme before it starts. The only problem is that Zach isn't as predictable as he appears...
Zach Coxwell hates commitment, but loves a challenge. Like the pretty bar waitress who turned him down flat for a date-only to invite him to her family's Thanksgiving dinner. Zach knows he can make Jen smile, and he's betting that he can unravel her mysteries.
Despite Thanksgiving dinner becoming a familial nightmare for Jen, Zach has the time of his life and finds that Jen may be worth a commitment after all-even if he has to convince her by any means necessary.
Customer Reviews:
All or Nothing.......2007-06-02
Loved this book! The characters were so real. Zach was so sweet and the Thanksgiving dinner reminded me of my crazy family. Jen is precious. I finished this book several days ago and it is still on my mind. Even though I have read a couple of books since. This is a wonderful book and I've put a couple of Clair Cross's books on my wish list because of the quality of this book.
Heartwarming and Fun!.......2007-04-12
Zachary Coxwell is intelligent, charming, and funny. But due to unresolved family issues, he's avoided making commitments other than to his dog -- picture an apartment empty of furniture. Then he meets Jen Maitland to whom he's instantly attracted, and he dedicates himself to making her smile -- even if that means singing Elvis on karaoke night!
Jen Maitland has commitment problems of her own after a successful battle with cancer. Afraid to embrace life, she sets only short term goals, like waitressing and knitting small fruits and vegetables. She seems perfectly content until her mom threatens to play matchmaker unless Jen brings a date to Thanksgiving dinner. Enter Zachary Coxwell - gorgeous, materialistic and shallow. He's the perfect fake date to stop her zany, liberal family from meddling - they'll hate him on sight. Instead, they adore him. And when Jen sees that there's more to Zach than she first assumed, she finds herself trying to make him smile.
Zach and Jen learn they have more in common than outward appearances would suggest, and they're thrown off balance when unexpected feelings emerge. Soon, furniture appears in Zach's apartment, and Jen's knitting projects grow, symbolizing their newfound courage to move forward and their hope for the future. Still, they must learn to trust themselves, their families, and each other, if they're to get at the truth of who they are beneath their protective layers. Only when they take that leap of faith can they resurrect long-buried dreams, and love without holding back a part of themselves.
Zach and Jen's tender emotional journey is both romantic and fun. The story also celebrates family, as Jen's colorful relatives weave their way into your heart with some of the funniest and most poignant scenes in the book. Also, though All or Nothing stands alone, the endearing Coxwell family (Zach's mom and siblings), from Cross's other books in the series, makes an appearance. Be prepared to laugh and cry -- it's that kind of novel.
The author's lovely prose, rich characters, and witty dialogue help make All or Nothing a great read. I highly recommend this story.
lighthearted contemporary romance .......2007-04-05
Following her mom asking her if she is gay and ordering her to find a Yuppie to marry and have babies with, Jen needs a date for her family's Thanksgiving dinner or her matchmaking mom will provide her with one. She decides Zach is perfect as her escort. Zach agrees to go with her.
The pair have a good time together even with mom beaming. Zach wants to see Jen again and she reluctantly accepts their going on a date. When he decides he needs to know more about her, she actually surprises herself by telling him a truth she is ashamed of; although she expected him to flee in disgust Zach wants to see Jen even more as their pretend relationship feels genuine at least in his heart.
This is a fun lighthearted contemporary romance starring two likable souls who have in common an anti commitment syndrome and a love for one another. Jen is a delightful character as she barely blinks when her mom, "caught in a 1970s time warp", accuses her of being gay because she isn't married yet. Fans will enjoy the antics of this couple who insist "I'm not in love".
Harriet Klausner
Book Description
Jillian struggles to fill the shoes--and identity-- of her identical twin sister amid the strict rules and routines of the Arizona Harvey House. When the local doctor inadvertently discovers her ruse, he creates a plan of his own. Westward Chronicles Book 3.
Customer Reviews:
A book to think about..........2001-11-18
This book isn't really a sequel to the other 2 books in this series. The main character is not featured in book 2, and the only character from book 2, is Gwen Carson, who had a small part in book 2. That being said, I thought this book was great. Jillian takes over for her twin, Judith, at her job in an Arizona Harvey Restaurant. The novel follows her as she struggles to find her faith, and to reconcile her love and respect for her parents with her growing sense of independence. She also seeks to find her place in the world.
Ms. Peterson is able to bring to live the struggle between the white man and the Indians in the late 1800s. By using Jillian to act as conscience for the community, she allows Jillian to point to people in the community as hypocrites. I saw this role as extremely important in the book. By the time the showdown between the town and Jillian arrives, I was ready for someone to take a stand.
I would heartily recommend this book to anyone. You don't even have to read the other 2 books first.
Veiled Reflections - Harvey Girls.......2001-06-26
The Harvey Girl novels by Tracie Peterson are delightful and charming. Tracie has researched the Harvey Girls history and traveled to the places where Harvey Girls worked. ?Tracie's enthusiasm for the Harvey Girls is quite rare and she definitely knits many facets of history in her latest book Veiled Reflections. Tracie also gives a true characterization of the Harvey Girls lives and Christian ethics.
It is never as easy as it seems..............2000-02-23
It amazes me how Tracie Peterson can take an old story line (twins switching places) put them in an already used setting (Harvey House girls) and create a brand new, wonder what will happen next story! I have enjoyed all of Ms. Peterson's books and this one is no exception. This series is excellent. So often writers of series tend to tell too much of the same stuff in each book or make you wonder what the story has to do with the series at all. All of Tracie's stories are fresh, interesting and will keep you up reading until you finish, then make you wish for the next one right away. Keep up the good work!
Compelling intrigue, romance and living with deceipt!.......2000-02-02
A Veiled Reflection is the third book in the series about the Harvey House girls and this one is superb! Jillian agrees to pretend to be her twin sister, Judith and this starts her life in Arizona off on the wrong foot - that of living in deceipt. She obviously has trouble performing like her trained sister and runs into a few people who know the difference. When she falls in love, she is sure it is one-sided. The man she loves has a secret past and refuses to love again. The Navajo Indians are represented in this book and are loved and ministered to by one old lady, Mary. Prejudice and hatred show their ugly faces even between civilized white people who think they are Christians. A few refuse to be drug into the garbage and end up being forced to take a stand. This is excellent reading, good for making some religious and political stands, and romantically it is suberb!
Books:
- Too Good to Leave, Too Bad to Stay: A Step-by-Step Guide to Help You Decide Whether to Stay In or Get Out of Your Relationship
- Train Wreck: The Life and Death of Anna Nicole Smith
- Warlord
- Wild Stars Seeking Midnight Suns: Stories
- Women & Money: Owning the Power to Control Your Destiny
- Wooden on Leadership
- 10 Things Your Minister Wants to Tell You: (But Can't, Because He Needs the Job)
- 7 Weeks to Safe Social Drinking: How to Effectively Moderate Your Alcohol Intake
- A Far Country
- A Feast for Crows (A Song of Ice and Fire)
Books Index
Books Home
Recommended Books
- The Price of Privilege: How Parental Pressure and Material Advantage Are Creating a Generation of Di
- Lone Star Field Guide to Wildflowers, Trees, and Shrubs of Texas, Revised Edition
- Biogeography and Ecology of Turkmenistan
- Diary of a Madman and Other Stories
- Draw 50 Horses
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology: Theory And Practice
- Drawing Mammals: An Artist's Reference Guide to North American Mammals
- Eva Zeisel On Design
- Colors For Your Every Mood: Discover Your True Decorating Colors
- Common Malaysian fruits, with Thai and Tamil names
General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
The Food Service Professionals Guide To: Waiter & Waitress Training: How To Develop Your Wait Staff For Maximum Service & Profit (The Food Service Professionals Guide, 10)
The Encyclopedia Of Restaurant Training: A Complete Ready-to-Use Training Program for All Positions in the Food Service Industry
At Your Service: A Hands-On Guide to the Professional Dining Room
Remarkable Service: A Guide to Winning and Keeping Customers for Servers, Managers, and Restaurant Owners
The Waiting Game: The Essential Guide for Wait Staff and Managers
