June 2018

Audiobook listeners know that it’s all about the narrator. I was wildly impressed with Laura Benanti, who narrated Lauren Weisberger's WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LULULEMONS. Every character’s voice was distinct and completely captured their personalities and nuances, which made the listening experience all the more fun. I found myself laughing out loud so many times.

Lauren hit the same groove that worked so well in THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA. This time, the setting is Greenwich, Connecticut, and she captures the “I can one-up you” vibe of the town in pitch-perfect style.

Miriam has moved there as her husband sold his company, and they wanted their three children to grow up outside the city. She has given up her high-powered job as an attorney with some longing and regret. Emily Charlton, who many will remember as an assistant to the infamous Miranda Priestly, is now an image consultant to the stars. But there’s a feeling that she’s a bit long in the tooth, and out of the social media groove, and her clients are zipping off to the new guard for their coddling.

But then the perfect opportunity comes along. Karolina Hartwell, a former supermodel who walked the runway for Victoria’s Secret, among others, is arrested for a DUI. Karolina is married to a well-connected senator, and suddenly her world inside the Beltway is plucked away. She retreats to Greenwich where Miriam knows her, and Emily sees her as a way to make a comeback --- and, in an interesting way, Miranda lends a hand.

It’s a fast-paced romp of a read, and I mean that in the best possible sense. Lauren layers great lines on top of one another and consistently ups the ante. Enjoy it on audio if you can!