Happy Birthday by Danielle Steel

Happy Birthday was the first book I’ve ever read by Danielle Steel. I know, right? Weird. As much as I’ve always heard her name and seen one of her zillion books on the shelves, her latest is my first. I think I had some pretty high expectations going into the novel, and they weren’t quite met. I enjoyed the book, but I wasn’t particularly wowed by the story or characters.

Readers follow three characters: Valerie Wyatt, who reminded me of a sort of Martha Stewart type. She has a successful TV show and is the “queen of gracious living.” Her life is filled with a busy schedule, lots of money, workouts to keep trim, plastic surgeons to look young…but she can’t face the very real fact she is turning sixty. Then we follow Valerie’s daughter, chef and owner of a happening restaurant and who is utterly obsessed with her work. But she is depressed that she is turning thirty, and has nothing to show for it besides her restaurant. No husband, no children, until….And then there is Jack Adams, twelve years retired from the NFL. Fifty year old Jack prefers her women young and flexible…until a particular move leaves Jack with his back thrown out. Feeling old and washed up, and slightly pathetic, Jack realizes that he wants to make some changes in his life. Scenarios unfold that bring these three characters together is some surprising, some predictable ways. I thought the book was nice and it flowed easily from scene to scene, but nothing really captured my attention or stood out for me. I closed the book thinking it was all right. Would I recommend it? Sure. I don’t think it’s something that needs to be catapulted to the top of your list, but you might enjoy a few lessons these characters learn.