And Spoons: A Novel, Knives, Forks

Forks, Knives And Spoons is a whole new way to look at dating through a college girl's eyes! It's 1988 in Syracuse, NY and Amy has just started her freshman year of college. Amy and her roommate, Veronica quickly become friends but Amy has this new way of classifying boys that Veronica doesn't agree with. The ultimate catch is a Knife, Forks are pricks and Spoons are the nerdy dudes.

As Amy and Veronica get through the hard years of college, following this system of meeting boys and discovering what kind of a boy they truly are. With the both of the girls coming into their own and finding that not everyone is what they seem. We are left with Amy and Veronica finding their own Knifes in a field of Forks & Spoons!!

I loved this book and I so wished that a sequel was in the works just to check in on the girls like 5 years in future! The idea of this book appealed to me but I was a little apprehensive when I first started reading but I soon fell in love with how this story was being played out. I really liked how being set in the late 80's was totally perfect for what this story was saying. The bottom line is that I really loved this book and I could totally see this book being made into a 3 hour long movie!!

Thank You to Leah DeCesare for writing a fantastic debut fiction novel that I can't wait to see what is to come from you in the future!!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the Author!

Talk about a book I could not put down. My Kindle was coming everywhere with me while I was reading Forks, Knives and Spoons. Even while waiting in line at a drive through, I pulled out my Kindle to keep reading. I loved the story of a college friendship between two women, their relationships, and their life after college. The early 90s nostalgia had me smiling as well, and if you’re a 90s child, I bet you’ll get a few throwback laughs as well. I was surprised to see this is Leah DeCesare’s debut novel, as it was extremely well-written, well-organized and kept me hooked from the first page to the last. I highly recommend you add this to your reading list!
I received a review copy

This is a great read. If you are looking for a relationship than you really could use the concept of finding the perfect "steak knife". Don't settle for anything less. Otherwise, you are just left with a bunch of posers. Amy and Veronica were good together. I enjoyed seeing them experience all of their relationship turmoil in their quests to find the perfect "steak knife". They did come across forks, spoons, sporks, and even chopsticks along the way.

Although, I did feel like Amy was trying too hard to find her steak knife. Some knives when you give them a good polish could turn out to be a dud. Yes, forks and spoons can turn into steak knives as well. The way that Amy and Veronica and their friends got on the cutlery band wagon and went along with the references was charming and sometimes funny. A worthy read.

Forks: They are the smoothies. The forks are the guys who are cocky, they'll poke you. These are the guys to be especially careful of. They are the guys that won't care about you. They will make you think they care, but they won't have any problem playing the field.

Knives: The knives are the middle of the road, they're not cocky like the forks. They may be a little less confident, but mot necessarily lacking in confidence. The nice guys will be in the knife category.

Spoons: Simply put, these are the nerds, the geeks. They don't poke, they don't have edge, they're maybe even bland. Spoons may be wimpy and dull, boring and nervous.

Review I loved everything about Leah DeCesare's novel "Forks,Knives and Spoons"! The concept of this novel is so unique, creative and unusual! Kudos to Leah DeCesare for such an amazing and original storyline! The genres of this story are Fiction, Women's Fiction, and Romance.

The time-line of the story is in the 1980's where there aren't cell phones, texting, and social media. Imagine having to call on a landline or send a handwritten,(or typed) note or letter, The author describes several girls who become friends during college life. As Amy York's father has the "talk" before she goes to college, her father describes that there are three types of guys," Forks, Knives and Spoons." Amy uses this "Utensil Classification System" as a guide. Her college friends tend to refer to this as "UCS" Spoons would be nerdy, Forks would be the charming, love and leave them type, and Knives would be keepers.

The characters are mostly likeable. These are college age and young adults finding their way through their adventures in college. I love the way that the author shows us how the characters deal with betrayal, dishonesty loyalty and commitment. I also enjoy how the girls use the Utensil Classification System. For example, this is an enjoyable quote minus the person's name not to spoil anything:" He turned out to be a fork in a knive's clothing".

I appreciate the way the author shows us friendship, family, love and hope. I especially like that the characters show growth. This was such a fun, intriguing and enjoyable read and I highly recommend that you read it! I won this package as a giveaway from the author, and all thought and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.

Amy York is leaving her Connecticut home to begin her freshman year at college. Her father provides her with light advice on choosing a life partner before she leaves. One of his hopes is that she selects a boyfriend that will not distract her from the dream she has of becoming a journalist. His advice classifies men into three types of utensils: forks, knives, and spoons. Amy takes this advice to heart, providing her with a guide to assess the male population at college and beyond.

Amy and Veronica meet at Syracuse University and quickly become best friends. Amy passes along her father’s wisdom to her friends and they all put it to use. It justifies tough breakups, why a relationship went sour, or just to size up someone at a party. The book takes us through the two friends college journeys as they delve through relationships, skepticisms, spring breaks and formals. Amy leaves school with a boyfriend she hopes to marry while Veronica is still looking for that perfect utensil.

The two move to New York City and share an apartment. Amy continues her relationship with her boyfriend, Andrew. She begins to slowly learn that the ideal utensil from college may not be the best fit for her current needs. Veronica becomes serious about her boyfriend Joey who never finished college. Whenever she visits her parents in Rhode Island, her mother tries to set her up with young men from her social circle. Veronica struggles with introducing Joey to her parents fearing they will not approve of him based upon her upbringing. The book follows their relationships while they mature into adulthood through new apartments, weddings of friends, and jobs.

The characters in this book are very likeable and their friendship is written realistically. The book has an easy flow and I was taken back in time to the period of being in college and embarking on a career. I enjoyed the references to the ‘80’s / ’90’s: Benetton sweaters, Denise Austin videos and Mulholland Drive Cafe owned by Patrick Swayze. I will look at my utensils very differently now!

This is a debut novel by the author.

This was such a fun, feel good, lighthearted read! I love books set in the eighties, there’s something about the nostalgia I experience when I’m reading something set in that time period, and DeCesare brought the eighties back to life! She went into detail about the fashions, music, movies and stone aged technology and it was such a funny blast from the past.

It begins in 1988 when Amy is getting ready to start her freshman year of college. She quickly bonds with her new roommate, Veronica and immediately tells her about the advice her dad left her with. The USC says that every guy can be classified as a piece of silverware. The perfect catch is a steak knife, while a shrimp fork or slotted spoon is a dud. It sounds silly, and it totally is, but it was also extremely fun. As a hopeless romantic, Amy takes the USC seriously, while the more realistic Veronica is skeptical. The book goes on to follow the girls as they graduate and move to NYC and mainly focuses on their dating adventures.

I loved both Amy and Veronica, they were completely different in many ways, but they’re both loyal friends and hard workers. Their friendship was awesome and I always like to see some girl power in a book. They support each other through breakups, makeups, cheating, school pressure, and the stress of being out on their own as adults for the first time. Amy’s dad was also a really great guy, her mom died when she was a newborn so it’s always been just the two of them and their bond was adorable.

This is like a more innocent Sex and the City, mostly because DeCesare captured the innocence of the late eighties and early nineties so well. Even though it follows the girls as they navigate the dating world it’s light on the romance and heavy on their friendship, which I appreciated. Don’t get me wrong, there is still plenty of dating going on, but the focus was more on friendship and family. I was happy with how things ended but I’m also hopeful the author is considering a sequel?! I want to know what happens to Amy and Veronica next.

Before going off to college, Amy's dad tells her there are three types of guys - forks, knives, and spoons - and describes what kind of guy each utensil represents. Armed with this knowledge, which she calls the Utensil Classification System (UCS) Amy heads off to Syracuse University. Veronica is her roommate, Matt is her pal, Andrew is her boyfriend, and college life takes off - with Amy telling all her girlfriends about the UCS. Close to a hundred fifty pages later and we're still talking about utensils, trying to classify boys, and it's still freshman year. If it seems like I'm struggling here, I am. For me this book took a long time getting where it was going, and when it finally got where it was going I felt like I had been reading the same thing for a long time. Then, at some point later on, all of a sudden there was little mention of the UCS, which to me felt disjointed. When the last section of the book came it had moments that to me felt a bit forced and phony, then the book freight-trained through to a ho-hum ending. Sigh. This book won so many awards - I was hoping for so much more.

Leah DeCesare has written some good characters here - you can actually visualize Amy, Veronica, and the rest of the large cast that makes up this book. My issues were with the story itself. For me the plot felt redundant, a bit contrived, a bit stereotyped at times, and so very slow-moving for so long. Remember that this is my opinion, though, so you might like this book very much. That's the beauty of books - there's something for everyone, and everyone reacts differently to books. For me personally, Forks, Knives, and Spoons just didn't cut it. Pun intended.

This book was such a fun read, while simultaneously touching upon some very real-life topics. Forks, Knives and Spoons focuses around the search for love and discovering ones true self in the process, which everyone can relate to when it comes to relationships, dating, and finding "the one". On top of that it opens with an event that you don't come across often in the literature world, yet is an experience most women have faced, most especially while in college. I found it refreshing that an author had the balls to write about something so many of us ladies have had to deal with. All in all, I loved this book, from the characters, to the blast to the past references, and of course the unique classification system!! <3

Nostalgic, witty tale of college girlfriends and their search for Mr. Right in this debut from Leah DeCesare.

I tore through FORKS, KNIVES, and SPOONS mostly because DeCesare has such an easy, relatable writing style. It's about love and growth, friendship, the murky place between childhood and adulthood, and ultimately: discovery.

Amy York is a freshman at Syracuse University. She's been raised by a single dad who dishes out some timely advice the evening before taking her to college for the first time: there are three types of guys--forks, knives, and spoons. The ultimate goal is a steak knife. He calls this the Utensil Classification System (UCS). It's lighthearted, but Amy takes it very seriously educating her roommate and other college friends about the UCS.

I was immediately thrust back in time to the last 1980s and early 1990s (when the story is set) an waxed nostalgic at the mention of Benetton sweaters, Swatch watches, Tretorns, George Michael, Aqua Net, Van Halen and so much more. DeCesare completely pegged the time period with complete accuracy.

There were girls (and guys) of all kinds--those I remember well from my own college days--and her characterizations were spot-on. I wanted to know what happened to these folks and how it all tied up in the end (my predictions were right--and then I breathed a sigh of relief). I also really enjoyed the big, boisterous Italian family described in the second-half of FORKS, KNIVES, AND SPOONS.

While the concept is certainly clever, and the book is most likely a romance, I wanted a little less 'guy/marriage' talk a little more 'just life.' But...that's probably me just being me, who is content with her steak knife of 16 years.

As for comps, I found the writing style (and content) a bit reminiscent of Emily Giffin's earlier work (SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING BLUE, andLOVE THE ONE YOU'RE WITH) with a touch of Jennifer Weiner's wit and snark and perhaps a bit of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA (Lauren Weisburger)

This book begins with Amy and Veronica starting their freshman year at Syracuse. Before Amy left home her father gave her some advice about boys. Veronica and Amy dub this unique advice the UCS. The Utensil Classification System.

This story follows Amy and Veronica as they navigate the dating scene through college and beyond. Their decisions and actions cause a domino effect on their lives and others. I enjoyed these young ladies. Both seem to have a good head on their shoulders, even though they sometimes make a few stupid decisions. I chalk that up to youth.

I love how the author sprinkles in many details from the 90’s, especially the music. I found myself singing songs from my past! She even mentions Danielle Steele….oh my, she was a staple for me during the 90’s.

There are a lot of characters to keep up with and it can be overly dramatic in places. But the funny wit and the grand time had by all as they struggle to find the perfect steak knife, is such a treat. This is a heart warming read about relationships and life changing decisions. A real joy!

“Be sure you know yourself and what’s in your heart. Remember, you have to value and love yourself first.”

I received this novel from the author for a honest review.

I miss college. And not the study for exams, write 12-page papers, ramen for dinner miss college. But the camaraderie, freedom to explore, and those tight friendships you discover as you enter the world of becoming an adult. So I was thrilled when I started Leah DeCesare’s debut novel and entered freshman year of college at Syracuse with roommates Amy and Veronica.

Before heading to school, Amy’s father gives her a pep talk about the Utensil Classification System: each boy she meets can be classified as a fork, spoon, or knife. I’ll let Amy and friends elaborate on the differences but ultimately, they’re all in search of their perfect steak knife.

I loved sharing their college experience with them from the beginning, all the way through graduation, and moving to a big city to start their careers. What made it more fun was college for them was in the ’80s. So not only was it nice to see dating life without the world of smartphones, GPS, and email, but I enjoyed all the musical and fashion references to that decade.

Its’s easy to fall in love with Amy and Veronica and root for them throughout the course of the book. We have all been through their ups and downs, trying to balance academics and first loves and heartbreak. The characters really are fully cemented and the dialogue is spot on. Their journey pulled at my heartstrings and made me smile when things went right.

My thanks to Leah DeCesare for a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review. I would love to see these women again in a follow-up story, or even passing their utensil knowledge down to a future generation. A perfect beach read, too!

You will be missing out if you do not read FORKS, KNIVES, and SPOONS by Leah DeCesare! Leah takes the reader on a journey into college life and beyond during the late 80’s and early 90’s. Her descriptions of hairstyles (Aqua Net, anyone?), products (Noxzema), music (REM, Divinyls, Stone Temple Pilots), colognes and perfumes (Drakkar Noir, Love’s Baby Soft), and news stories (Pan Am crash), will vividly transport you to the college scene with the main characters. After a talk with her father, Amy has begun to classify men into the categories of forks (smooth operators), knives (guys with potential), and spoons (geeks with no edge). Every girl is seeking their steak knife (the perfect guy). Amy thinks she has found him in Andrew. But is he on the up and up? Her best friend, Matt, is always there for her, but she has labeled him a spoon, and he is in the friend zone. Veronica is Amy’s best friend and has her own share of guy troubles until she meets Joey. But will their upbringings be their undoing? Readers will laugh along with the girls’ shenanigans, want to scream at their bad decisions, and root for the guys that should be the steak knives. This book will definitely speak to the Generation X’ers but is relatable for all generations.

Almost two decades after “Sex and the City” premiered, stories about the romance of female friendships are still compelling. Shows such as “Girls” and “Pretty Little Liars” use the twists, turns and triumphs of lasting friendships as the backdrop to their drama. In her debut novel, FORKS, KNIVES, AND SPOONS, Leah DeCesare adds her insight to this trend of coming-of-age stories.

DeCesare’s previous accomplishments are in a very different genre: parenting. Her two Naked Parenting books and other online writings on the subject range from advice for new parents to advice for parents of young adults. All of this knowledge comes into play in her novel. She answers the questions of how to weather the storms of growing up with an experienced, encouraging and enlightened tone.

FORKS, KNIVES, AND SPOONS opens with the two protagonists beginning their freshman year of college in 1988. Amy and Veronica are set to be roommates and quickly become inseparable friends. Amy explains her father’s classification system for men, which becomes the defining metaphor of the book. “There are three types of guys: forks, knives, and spoons…. The forks…are the guys that won’t care about you. They will make you think they care, but they won’t have any problem playing the field…. The ideal guy is a knife…they have an edge and can be sharp when they need to be…. Then you have the spoons. Simply put, these are the nerds, the geeks. They don’t poke, they don’t have edge, they’re maybe even bland.” The Utensil Classification System is used on each boyfriend and male friend the girls encounter in the novel with the aim of fulfilling Amy’s father’s wish of “bringing home a good knife.”

As readers follow Amy and Veronica through their freshman year, senior year and post-college years, the forks, knives and spoons come and go. There are bad boyfriends and good boyfriends, as well as good guys who were bad boyfriends and bad guys who seemed good. But like the other iterations, the enduring relationship is the friendship between Amy and Veronica. Their talks together constitute a majority of the book, and their endless reassurance and acceptance of one another reads like a case study of how to have a supportive friendship.

FORKS, KNIVES, AND SPOONS is a straightforward and easy read. What could have been a gimmicky setting at the end of the 1980s becomes a nostalgic way to tell a timeless story without the burden of fitting it into modern times. DeCesare doesn’t wrestle with the issues of technology, job security and popular culture that may have complicated the forks, knives and spoons classification system. These concerns take a backseat to what is working in the book, namely the very thing that a parenting writer knows well: paternal encouragement. DeCesare injects small doses of advice and empowerment that read as very modern. When Amy begins to question her own judgment in her relationship, she has the insight to think, “Maybe we never fight because I don’t speak up about what I’m feeling. Do I do that? Do I stand up for myself?” For young readers, these bits seem like a kind of fertilizer for their fledgling self-confidence and maturity. For parents, it’s a good reminder of the kind of thing their young daughter may need to hear.

The result of mixing DeCesare’s expertise with this story of enduring friendship is an enjoyable read that should be on beach read lists for parents of young girls and young girls themselves.

Reviewed by Allison Sharp

*Possible spoilers in review according to author* While the majority of this story takes place during their time in college, there is a part of their lives after college that is included in the story. I really did enjoy the UCS - otherwise known as the Utensil Classification System. It turned out differently than I thought just from what I'd try to determine each utensil fit as before I read it. Basically, a knife is the guy you want. All the other types of utensils have their own definitions. I liked that it was an open enough classification system that it showed a guy that was a spoon for one girl, could totally be a knife for another. I know, that's pretty confusing without having read the book, so you need to go ahead and do that.

I really liked the characters, even if they kind of fell into a bit predictable stereotypes, or sometimes maybe a situation was a bit expected, nothing new. There were definitely times I was yelling at Amy to figure it out, it was so obvious to the reader what was going on, but then I do that with a lot of romance stories, I know that it is part of the drama. I also really liked the time period it was set in, the very late 80s and early 90s. Since I started college in 1990, it was totally a walk down memory lane for so many things in the book. Only having a landline phone, there were no cell phones, at least not for anyone other than very rich businessmen. The book pulled in so many things that were experiences that are common in college life. Things that I'm sure are still going on today. The computer lab bits were funny though, when you consider how each college student usually has their own computer or laptop these days.

I was rooting for Matt and Amy almost all of the book, but totally understood why she was in love with Andrew. Then there was the friend who lived down the hall that was basically the very promiscuous girl, not just promiscuous, but also willing to mess with other girls' boyfriends. There was the girl who went away to college with her high school boyfriend, and it didn't work out, although I think the reason in this story was different than the reasons for the people I knew in college.

My only issues were really the predictability of the story. The reason why the promiscuous girl was the way she was, well it was pretty textbook because of her dad leaving, the way her mom was, etc. You kind of knew that Matt was a possible love interest for Amy no matter what she seemed to think. I have to say I liked how Veronica's years panned out, and I like the way they were a little different and sometimes I got some unique turns in her story. I hated the way she was at the end when she went back to a friend's wedding. I hated the way she said the things she did about her boyfriend. I also think how upset Amy got about remarks guys were making to their friend getting married was kind of silly, and kinda made her seem a little bit like a psycho girl. Just me though.

I still recommend this story as a sweet romantic read. Pick it up, and then look at the guys in your past and around you today, and can you figure out who are the forks, spoons, and knives?

This book took awhile to draw me in. I saw it as a “run of the mill” coming of age novel, but couldn’t have been more mistaken. This was a journey, from the first day of college to adulthood. Veronica and Amy become roommates, due to a computerized match, and share their college experience, love lives and New York living.
Amy’s father shared some fatherly advice, as she headed off to Syracuse U. He categorized men into forks, knives and spoons, a system that she adopted, shared with her friends and sorority sisters. She didn’t apply it well to herself, as she found out, as she juggled relationships with her boyfriend Andrew and her best friend Matt.
I enjoyed the likable characters , the diversity of the families and the challenges of trying to blend the differences. Her debut novel is a winner, but please, read it and judge for yourself. I have a feeling you’ll agree!

This book brought back lots of memories from my college years in the 80's. I loved following Amy and Veronica during their college days analyzing the men that crossed their paths using the advice that Amy's father gave her before entering college. He told her that men we like forks (Cocky and will tell you they care but then go and play the field) Knives ( the nice guys the middle of the road kind of guys) and then there are the spoons ( those are the nerds and the geeks wimpy and boring). Amy shared this classification advice with all her friends so everyone was categorizing the men in their school. It was very hard to put down. I highly recommend this book.

Forks, Knives, and Spoons is the story of two young women as they navigate college (and beyond), dating, and learning to trust oneself. The story unfurls slowly over the course of many years, with a whole host of characters and a ton of nostalgic references to the 80s. One of the two main characters, Amy, sets the whole story in motion when she describes the advice her dad gave her before she left to college - separating men into three basic groups: forks, knives, and spoons. As the novel progresses, this classifications system gets hilarious new additions and more definition: soup spoons, butter knives, even chopsticks. But maybe dad's advice should be taken with a grain of salt, and as the girls have to figure out, it's possible that people have the capacity to surprise, even after many years.

4 fun, I-love-the-80s stars to Forks, Knives, and Spoons ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨

As a child of the 80s, I was instantly smitten with the time period of this novel and all the pop culture references peppered throughout. I had forgotten about many of those things and had so many “aww” moments that I waxed nostalgic over and over.

The group of women in this novel were in college, so there was also some college nostalgia, too. It’s all very fun, but it’s not fluff. There is plenty of substance to the story, and what the characters work through. This is a smoothly written story about friendship that was a delight to read! I plan to re-read it at some point when I’m ready to visit the 80s again!

Thank you to Leah DeCesare for the complimentary copy.

Leah and I are both Kappas, so she sent me this book to review. It ended up being the last book I read in 2017!

This book is quirky in an unexpected way. I thought it would be another standard chick lit (which I love! I'm not disparaging chick lit!) of college friendships and romance.

Instead, this is a coming-of-age novel that chronicles best friends through college and their first few years out of school.

I read the entire thing in one day. I could barely put it down.

So why 4 stars and not 5?

One character is just too cliche for me, in a slut-shaming way. She has almost no redeeming qualities. Women can enjoy casual sex without always stealing boyfriends or having Daddy issues.

Otherwise, I like the characters and their personal development. The story is largely character-driven, which I enjoy in a book.

When Amy's father sends her off to college with a description of guys as "forks, knives, and spoons," he didn't expect her to take his classifications so seriously. Amy goes through her college years using this Utensil Classification System as her guide to relationships, whether romantic or platonic. Her roommate Veronica isn't as convinced, but as the 2 of them navigate life during, and after college, what becomes most important is their friendship and support for each other as each learns to trust and believe in herself. DeCesare's writing is nostalgic, witty, and engaging, and I loved revisiting this time period as I journeyed along with Amy and Veronica.

What a fun read and what a fun premise. I've said this before, but premise is so important to me and this premise nails it. "There are three kinds of guys: forks, knives, and spoons." Instantly, I needed to know what that was all about, and I found myself categorizing past boyfriends, male friends, and maybe even my husband by the Utensil Classification System. As one author said, ​ the novel is ​"like having your best girlfriend take you by the hand and tell you a story." I'll second that sentiment.

I received a galley of this novel.

This book brings one right back to their college years. Although it was about the 80's, it didn't stop me from enjoying the book and I was there in the 60's! Some things change but then some things are always the same. I was especially lucky because I went to Syracuse University and the landmarks it brought back had remained the same. Nostalgia all over the place. I could have renamed the characters to those I knew and labeled the guys I knew within this system. I think it is a book primarily for women but if men would read it, the book could stimulate much discussion in today's climate of relationship problems and harrassment. I am delighted to recommend this book!

I could not put this book down. I thoroughly enjoyed every page. It is so well written and was pleasantly surprised as to how much I could relate to the characters and the storyline. It was a fun read and still had the ability to make you think. Absolutely loved it. Highly recommended!

This book was recommended by a friend because it was set at Syracuse University in the late 80s when I was a student there ('88-'92) so she'd thought I'd enjoy it. Little did I know that the author is also an alum, having been there for the exact same four years. From the first word I was transported back to some of the best years of my life! Leah does an amazing job of capturing not only the essence of college life with all it's trials and tribulations, but the particulars of SU -- from the dorms, to the clothes and music, to Greek Life, to classes and food. I felt like I was reliving every minute! Anyone who attended Syracuse around that time will thoroughly enjoy this book! It is also a great read for all young women as they navigate college and the few years after, learning who they are and who they want to be, trying to stay true to themselves while managing friendships, relationships and the transition to adulthood. Those who are a few (or more!) years out of college will enjoy revisiting the experiences with the added perspective of age and hopefully wisdom! You'll for sure find yourself classifying every guy you've ever known into the UCS. I've passed this on to my teenage daughter's and to friends from Syracuse. A completely delightful read!!

At first I thought this story was going to be dorky. How could all men be classified as silverware? And better yet, why would you want to categorize them that way?
But that’s Amy’s system when she starts her freshman year at Syracuse. Spoons are nerds, forks are basically players and what you strive for is a steak knife.

As the story progresses, relationships intertwine and Amy falls for a fork who she thinks is a knife. Her silverware drawer is jumbled.

This is a different kind of read, actually quite refreshing in the way the story is told. It’s light, romantic, family-oriented and a good way to spend a couple of evenings.

This story (and concept) are so much fun! I loved watching these two best friends fantasize and fumble their way through the utensil drawer of dating. A cast full of vivid characters to cheer for, or against.

What a great way to spend a stormy weekend! Leah DeCesare's book was a wonderfully written, coming of age novel. Having started college in the fall of '88 myself, it was a welcomed blast from the past. But even more, I connected to the characters and their wonderful relationship. Everyone needs a bestie to be there for them and share life's ups and downs. This novel captures the the often turbulent transition of the adolescent to the young adult with an honesty and humor that draws the reader in. I agree with previous reviews that this book would be a great gift to a daughter starting college, but it is also a wonderful reminder to parents who are launching their children to remember its not easy growing up and figuring out the world on your own terms. Well done!

I have never been much of a reader, and I told this to the ladies who wanted me to join their book club. I gave in and started to read on Sunday morning... I was done the next day. I just could not put it down! I actually got mad at my dryer for going off and interrupting me because I didn't want to put it down. All I could think about at work was getting back to that book to find out if my suspicions were right. I am also a Kappa and dealt with the ups and downs of college life, guys and relationships. My now husband was always a steak knife, but I was too blind to see it for quite some time. We have been together for over 7 and a half years and married for almost 2. We have been long distance more than we have been together. I am telling you, it was a serious roller coaster ride!

Leah, kudos on this book and I am just so excited to read your next one!

Loyally,
Ellen

I usually read historical fiction, civil war, old frontier etc but the name of this book sounded fun so why not. So glad I decided to take a chance on this book. Great characters, kept me turning the page and I just really enjoyed this book, it even had a history twist with the late 80's & 90's. Great read!!

Oh this book is so much fun! I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the characters, and was sad when I had finished reading. I love the 1980's genre references, perfectly peppered throughout the book. And I'm not sure I've ever read a book that talks about sorority life, or anything that remotely took me back to that freshman dorm, and the inhabitants behind each door on your floor. There are lessons here to be had, and I think its a must read not only for those of us who experienced the full splendor of this time, but also for younger generations.

SparkPress and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of Forks, Knives, and Spoons. This is my honest opinion of the book.

Amy York's Dad gave her some advice about guys as she embarked on her college career: guys can be forks, knives, or spoons. Forks are the cocky ones, the guys from which to steer clear. Spoons are the nerds, wimpy and dull. Knives are the middle of the road and, although they are less confident than forks, they have the most potential to be good guys. As she searches for the perfect knife, Amy is overwhelmed by all of the choices. With her quest for the perfect match in full swing, will Amy miss what is right in front of her?

Forks, Knives, and Spoons is a conglomeration of every stereotype with regards to college life. The book could have been charming and cute, but the author instead set the stage with infidelity and lies. I really felt no connection to the characters and spent most of the book looking for the nostalgia references to the late 80's and early 90's, which is when I went to college. Forks, Knives, and Spoons was clearly not the book for me, as it represented a missed opportunity by the author to entertain and amuse the reader.

I wanted to enjoy this book but I couldn’t. The characters were flat and the main love interest was so unlikeable that I can’t believe the author let us sit through a 5+ year long relationship.

Also, it was way too I SWEAR ITS THE EIGHTIES for me. One mind-numbing paragraph that I remember because I pulled a muscle rolling my eyes, in one breath, mentioned the brand new microfiche machines, the beige boxy commodores, the dot matrix printer with the paper with the holes on the side, the 5” floppy disc, and the black screen with the green cursor. Like, we get it- it’s not 2018. There was a whole bunch of that in-your-face timeline stuff. Paraphrasing here but “at the party, REM lost their religion whole madonna jusitified her love and the divynls touched themselves before en vogue and Paula Abdul and Janet Jackson and New Kids and Bryan Adams played” WE GET IT

I just finished this book and I have to say it was one of the best that I've read. Leah covers all the bases of love, heartbreak, friendship, and self-discovery in a way that tugs on the heart strings and produces a feeling of nostalgia. I found myself laughing out loud and sometimes at the brink of tears, as well as relating the main characters' experiences to my own life. It is incredibly well-written, so if you are anything like me and enjoy reading before bed, make sure you're not getting up early the next morning because you won't to want to put it down!

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Forks, Knives and Spoons. Leah did a great job with character development and weaving a nostalgic quality throughout the book. It brought me right back to my college years. I had great fun reminiscing about my early adulthood and being away from home and on my own for the first time. I have since passed the book along to my college aged daughter and look forward to discussing it with her. It would be great if there was a sequel as I would love to learn how things turned out for Amy, Veronica, their families and friends.

Leah Decesare deftly takes you on a heartfelt journey into the lives of college freshman, Amy and Veronica, as they navigate a new world and new relationships that shape them through their undergraduate years and into adulthood. Guided by a highly entertaining cutlery dating system, the two begin to question their picture of ‘happily ever after’ while facing life’s unpredictable lessons. You’ll enjoy rooting for these characters and their colorful cast of friends to the end.

This novel sounded like fun - a lighthearted look at finding love. The main character explains that her father put men into three categories - forks, knives and spoons.

Unfortunately, the forks, knives and spoons analogy does not make a lot of sense...a knife is the best. And the analogy is dragged out again and again and even expanded...each example not making a lot of sense....slotted spoons, soup spoons, steak knives. It got tedious.

And, honestly, the main college girls in the book spent most of their time getting drunk. If they just were freshmen, they were only 18. Of course, they do mention fake ids.

Maybe there is a good story in there, but I didn't see it. The main characters seemed shallow and not like people I would like to know. I ended up not even finishing it since I could not care about what happened to these young women.

A delightful novel that kept me up too late and brought up many (mostly happy) memories of my college and post-college years. DeCesare writes in a breezy style that's easy to read only to surprise you with deep insights. Highly recommend.

It is an entertaining book. Although it takes place a while ago, some of the concepts are still applicable for young women today. It could serve as a discussion starter between parents and college age children.

Warm, engaging, fun with a whole new set of interesting and practical toosl for young adults as they navigate life. Found myself pondering the various men in my life in terms of utensils! Blowback to the 1980'so a nostalgic read for anyone whose college years were of that era. Beautiful debut novel, can't wait for the next one!

This book starts in the year 1988 as the main character heads off to college...coincidentally the same year I did. There were lots of fun 80s/90s memories that really took me back! I found the characters to be realistic and engaging and I wanted to know how their love lives would turn out. The categorization of the guys they met as either knives, forks and spoons was creative and a fun lens through which to view new potential suitors.

This novel sounded like fun - a lighthearted look at finding love. The main character explains that her father put men into three categories - forks, knives and spoons.

Unfortunately, the forks, knives and spoons analogy does not make a lot of sense...a knife is the best. And the analogy is dragged out again and again and even expanded...each example not making a lot of sense....slotted spoons, soup spoons, steak knives. It got tedious.

And, honestly, the main college girls in the book spent most of their time getting drunk. If they just were freshmen, they were only 18. Of course, they do mention fake ids.

Maybe there is a good story in there, but I didn't see it. The main characters seemed shallow and not like people I would like to know. I ended up not even finishing it since I could not care about what happened to these young women.

A delightful novel that kept me up too late and brought up many (mostly happy) memories of my college and post-college years. DeCesare writes in a breezy style that's easy to read only to surprise you with deep insights. Highly recommend.

Warm, engaging, fun with a whole new set of interesting and practical toosl for young adults as they navigate life. Found myself pondering the various men in my life in terms of utensils! Blowback to the 1980'so a nostalgic read for anyone whose college years were of that era. Beautiful debut novel, can't wait for the next one!

This book starts in the year 1988 as the main character heads off to college...coincidentally the same year I did. There were lots of fun 80s/90s memories that really took me back! I found the characters to be realistic and engaging and I wanted to know how their love lives would turn out. The categorization of the guys they met as either knives, forks and spoons was creative and a fun lens through which to view new potential suitors.

with Amy, Veronica and the gang...Leah is at the wheel! What a fun ride - Leah has captured the laughs and the tears that we all dealt with during the growing up years! Her references to products, music, TV, clothing and hair styles make the reader actually visualize the story!
I am a bit older than Leah but generationally we are the same! I have shared this title with my friends from back in the day and in the present. Despite the years that have passed, the life lessons in this lovely novel remain the same.
Sit back, buckle up and enjoy the memory filled ride!

Leah is a remarkably talented author who writes characters that stir memories and evoke comical and comfortable connections to college days, regardless of what decade you attended in. The story is a perfect balance of humor, wit, emotion, & nostalgia. Leah crafts her story so the reader longs for more at the end of each chapter & feels almost disappointed to no longer be a part of the characters lives once the story ends. This is the mark of a great author - one who develops a plot the reader doesn't want to close the pages on. Looking forward to Leah's next book!

This story (and concept) are so much fun! I loved watching these two best friends fantasize and fumble their way through the utensil drawer of dating. A cast full of vivid characters to cheer for, or against.

Forks, Knives and Spoons brings you to a place that is nostalgic, fun and entertaining at the same time. I can picture myself back in the 80's, doing very similar things, with great memories. Learning how to categorize men is a life lesson that every girl and women needs to know and would appreciate in their decision making about men. Thank you Leah! I also enjoyed the cadence of the writing and entire storyline with strong characters and feeling of the times.

Character development was excellent and the setting in time brought back lots of college memories. I thought the author did a great job including many details that made the setting seem very real. After getting to know all the characters, I will wonder how they do going forward in their lives, even though they were fictional. Fun read!

I could not put this book down. I thoroughly enjoyed every page. It is so well written and was pleasantly surprised as to how much I could relate to the characters and the storyline. It was a fun read and still had the ability to make you think. Absolutely loved it. Highly recommended!

This book will take you down memory lane, whether your’e a recent grad or took that path many years ago. It is a clever story beautifully written about the realities of college life, seeking that first job and falling in love. Don’t let the title fool you. Instead, explore the meaning of the title. It is much deeper than utensils!

Reading FN&S, I felt transported back in time to one of the best times in my life - substitute PC for SU and it was like I was reading an account of my college and post college days that could have been written by me or any one of my roommates. I love Leah's style of writing - witty and smart, yet accessible. I can't wait to see what is next on the horizon from Leah Decesare!

Cute read! College aged girl advised by dad about guys being "Forks, Knives and Spoons". She uses that information and creates a rating system, sharing it with friends who also adopt it. It's a quick read, especially for those who went to college in the late 80's and early 90's. Lots of references to songs, people of that era. Things don't always turn out as you expect them. First book for this upbeat, fun author!

An excellent "read". Leah has her finger on the pulse of college/dorm life in the late "80s. Put a smile on my face as I turned the pages...well, also worried about the young folk as they worked their way through that time in their lives.

Forks , Knives and Spoons was the perfect beach read for my girls trip! Girlfriends of all ages will love this book as you travel back to one of the most carefree times in your life . Wish I had the utensils classification system back in college ? Great gift for anyone you know embarking on their college adventure. A reminder for us all to believe in your heart and follow your dreams !

I loved Fork, Knives & Spoons! It was a great read! The book takes you back to your own college days! I wish I had the guidelines back then of categorizing guys into fork, knives & spoons. It would recommend this book to every lady that wants a great summer read- I have passed the book along to my girl friends! While reading this book I have realized I have my steak knife!

I enjoyed these characters as Amy and Veronica take on college with the advice of Amy's dad always present, as his FK and S schedule warns his girl about the types of men who will surround the girls starting their freshman year at Syracuse. DeCesare develops Amy and Veronica's "sisterhood" convincingly, while they navigate collegiate careers and their searches for careers and the men to share them with. Enjoy as I did in a quick three days!!!

Such a wonderful and insightful book about learning to find your own voice. I highly recommend it for women of any age, but especially those in college. Lighthearted and enjoyable with some insightful messages of wisdom about relationships, friendships, and the trials of growing up. A definite must read!

This is not the type of book I usually read, but the combination of late 80s/early 90s references, the fluidity and beauty of the writing, and the realism really surprised me. I thoroughly enjoyed it! There's depth to the characters and story lines but it's really easy to read. Great for book clubs!

Such a clever concept to classify college guys as utensils! An entertaining novel, Forks, Knives and Spoons allows the reader to relive their college years and all the same memories that Amy and Veronica are experiencing. A must-read!

Forks, Knives and Spoons was a great book! I loved reading about Amy and Veronica, their strong friendship and their adventures in life and love. They brought me right back to great memories of my friends and I as we navigated through college together. I really loved my trip back to 1988 - 1994..... If only I had know about the utensil classification system!

This was a fun book to read. I enjoyed the characters and "reliving" my college years. This book is set a few years after I was in college, but the references still brought back memories of the era. I'd love to know what happens next!

Forks, knives and spoons was such an easy read and it allows you to follow the characters from college to adulthood. The characters are extremely likeable and it brought me back to my college days in the 90’s!

Wonderful story with detailed setting in the time period even down to the songs. I was rooting for the characters and loved to see the growth and personal development through their journeys. I loved the forks, knives and spoons analogy.