The Assistants

The Assistants (Camille Perri, 2016)

How I stumbled upon it: In Astoria Bookshop, when I begged for a recommendation that wasn’t totally depressing.

What it's about: Tina’s 30, an EA to a top exec in NYC, and completely overwhelmed with student loan debt.  Long story short, an accounting error leaves Tina with a giant check in a corporation that isn't exactly tracking the bottom line and what she does next is wild.  Wouldn’t it be great if she could facilitate a few accounting errors for her friends, coworkers, and half of New York City? Tina finds herself suddenly trapped in a web of lies of her own making, and watching her get out of it is hilarious.

What I thought: Is it going to win the Man Booker Prize?  No. Was it short, quick, and entertaining?  Yes! If you’re looking for a quick beach read or a way to feel better about your crippling debt, this is a good pick!

You can get it here.