Objects of My Affection

Entertaining novel of a woman who sells everything to pay for her son's rehab. She had also lost her job but gets a gig emptying out a hoarder's house. The hoarder is a well-known artist who throws up obstacles that have to be overcome in order that she finish the job on time and get a large bonus. In the middle of all this, life happens. It's serious, funny, sad, hopeful, etc. just like life. She comes out of it stronger.

Above average chick lit that explores some serious issues along with a culture clash between a professional organizer and the hoarder who hires her to clean out her home. There's also a “who will she choose” romance subplot. If you don't mind discussions about drug addiction and mental illness along with your lighthearted banter, you will enjoy Objects of My Affection. Smolinski's two previous novels are a cut above the rest as well.