"But this was Bernadette, and she was enthusiastic. Bernadette and her enthusiasm were like a hippo and water: get between them and you'll be trampled to death." 
 I had convinced myself I would never read this one, but finally gave it a chance in order to prepare myself for Semple's #2, out in October. What on earth took me so long?! I was lying on the couch alone, chucking aloud every other page. Bernadette is hateable and loveable and confusing and perfect, and the relationship between her and her daughter, Bee, is real. 
 I enjoyed the beginning much much more, the hysterical home-life of the Branch family is much more enjoyable than the ridiculous, TV special-ish ending. But I tore through this book. So many scenes were perfectly written without any bullshit. It was just damn good writing. Smart. Sharp. Unlike anything else out there, really. 
 If you're on the fence about reading this book, find a copy and start reading the scene where Audrey and Bernadette are fighting on page 84, beginning with "So none of it is your responsibility?" I think that the good writing there will pull you in for the whole thing.