Category: Love Is the Punch Line

New 5-Star Review for Love Is the Punch Line!

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Posted by H K Carlton on Goodreads on April 12, 2023 (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5346700486)

A washed-up actor come Rodney Dangerfield-esk, stand-up comedian Josh Steinberg meets businesswoman Holly Brannigan. Their first interaction ends with Holly tossing a drink in Josh’s face. And there were several instances throughout the book where I wished she’d do it again!

Josh doesn’t leave the self-deprecating schtick on the stage. He carries it in life and wears it just like he does his navy wool suit. Though, I guess a lot of comedians do draw from a place of misery or tragedy for their act—the proverbial sad clowns. 

Throughout the book, Josh battles with depression and his insecurities. However, Holly does her level best to build Josh up and encourages him to fulfill his dreams. She believes in his ability, talent, and vision, even when he doesn’t believe in himself. Yet, Josh’s insulting brand of comedy leads to many misunderstandings and turmoil between the two—he self-sabotages the tenuous relationship at every turn. Often making Holly the butt of his jokes. For the sake of the act, of course. Holly is a saint for hanging in. 

Love Is the Punch Line is not a cookie-cutter romance, which is refreshing. Yes, this book has some romance, and Josh performs stand-up, but it is hardly a romantic comedy. It’s a turbulent, unconventional, and offbeat read yet original and full of ups and downs. Holly and Josh never seem quite in sync with each other, leaving the reader guessing, right to the bitter end, if the relationship can ever really work.

A strong debut! I look forward to this author’s next project.

 

 

 

Vintage microphone on stage with red curtains. Moody stage lighting creates drama and suspense.

New 5-Star Review for Love Is the Punch Line!

Posted by Gabriel Constans on Amazon.com and Goodreads on May 4, 2023

Comedy, Movies, Romance All in One

5 Stars

 As a screenwriter or romcoms (and other genres), married to a short woman, it seemed like this book was taken from part of my life. I don’t pretend to be a stand-up comic, but Love Is the Punch Line is a great romantic dramedy. Josh and Holly seem to be like oil and water but turn out to be quite complimentary. The story has a lot of insight into the movie business, looks closely at self-esteem and depression, and the ways we can hurt and support one another. Don’t hesitate to read this script (novel).

New 5-Star Review for Love Is the Punch Line!

Posted by Carolyn Bowen on Goodreads on December 3, 2020: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37507307-love-is-the-punch-line

Love is the Punch Line is a well-written, suspenseful novel. You’ll meet Josh Steinberg a self-loathing comedian with severe depression, problems maintaining his career and a nonexistent love life. Then he meets Holly Brannigan at one of his shows, and when her phone rang during his set, he calls her out and demands she leaves the club. She did; right after throwing a glass of water in his face.

The author, Kathleen Jones, did an excellent job with the dialog, diving in deep to show the honest feelings of the characters. Waves of tension pulsate throughout the novel, leaving you wondering if both the major characters could release their baggage from the past and start over again. 

This is an excellent read with an underlying powerful message — Never Give Up!