Book Club: M or F? - Portrait Magazine, February 2010 Issue

This Month: M or F?
September Issue - Written by: Julie Goldberg



Ever wish you had someone else to talk to your crush for you? Someone wittier, sharper, and cleverer? Well, Frannie’s wish is about to come true. “M or F?”, written by Lisa Papademetriou and Chris Tebbetts, is a hilarious tale of two best friends: Frannie (straight) and Marcus (gay).

When Frannie can’t work up the nerve to talk to her crush, Jeffrey (all around good boy), Marcus suggests chatting with him online. However, Marcus finds himself conversing with Jeff instead, with Frannie hovering over his shoulder of course. Seems simple enough, right? Until, the plan turns for the worst…Marcus is starting to fall for Jeffrey.

The situation begins to spiral out of control when a love square emerges, when Jeff’s bestest buddy, Glenn, seems to show feelings for Frannie, as well. You may think you have the answer, but it’ll keep you guessing until the very last page.

As you are all aware, Valentine’s Day is approaching, so I thought why not talk about a romantic novel…with a twist? I was browsing the bookshelves of my resident Barnes and Noble when the painfully bright (but still gorgeous) orange cover caught my eye. I read the back and found myself laughing hysterically at the premise. So, I bought it…and I loved it!

One of the things I liked most was that, these amazing authors took a plot that has been used so many times and made it something new again. This novel is just as humorous as it is enthralling. It gives the point of view of both main characters; Marcus narrating as if this were a movie and Frannie letting out her frightened yet hilarious thoughts. For a book so small, it has a lot of zing. Personally, all the irony, innuendos, and downright comical moments made this a very delightful read.

I have to say that the authors wrote this brilliantly. Its quirky charm will have you laughing out loud and blushing with embarrassment for the characters. For a light, romance novel on Valentine’s Day (or before or after…in case you’re busy :) ), this novel is simply perfect.

If you liked this book, then you might also enjoy “Fake Boyfriend” by Kate Brian.

P.S. Have a wonderful Valentine’s day, readers!