If Solutions and Other Problems broke my reading dry spell, then Made in Manhattan by Lauren Layne completely got me back on track.
Yup, you heard that right, people. I’ve finished yet another book. (And it’s not just a book. It’s my freaking second book of the year. How quintessential.)
So, Made in Manhattan follows the story of a Manhattan socialite, Violet Townsend, who’s tasked by Edith Rhode (her late grandmother’s best friend) to do the unthinkable: preparing an unpolished, long-lost grandson of Edith’s, named Cain Stone, to continue her family company’s legacy.
It would certainly help Violet if Cain weren’t as hostile as he is. But from the moment they meet, the two radiate resentment toward each other—Violet because of Cain’s coarse attitude, and Cain because of Violet’s Barbie-like behavior.
I don’t think this is Lauren Layne’s best book ever, but I was certainly entertained (if you need proof: I finished it in one sitting!). If I’m being honest, I would even categorize Made in Manhattan as a too-good-to-be-true story—borderline cliché, even. I mean, a long-lost CEO-to-be getting My Fair Lady-ed?
With that said, Lauren Layne can take almost any premise and turn it into an engaging read. Kudos to her.
While the plot itself is a fun take, there’s some unexpectedly solid character development beneath all the fun and games. I liked how Violet’s growth is highlighted just as much as Cain’s. Readers get glimpses of both characters’ swift evolution without losing their signature wit and charm.
My only qualm: I didn’t get to see more of Violet’s upbringing reflected in her character. As someone portrayed as the epitome of an Upper East Side socialite, I expected more luxurious habits and whatnots infused into her daily life. Or maybe I simply expected her to be more spoiled—not quite as nice or naïve as she already is from the very first page.
Still, this is such a fun book to read. Made in Manhattan is definitely a story meant to be enjoyed, not deeply analyzed—and I truly like that about it. I would totally recommend it if you’re looking for something light and fun to enjoy on a day off.
Rating: 4★
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