In Business Before Pleasure by Chrissy Munder, the main character, Joel, finds himself reeling in shame and betrayal after having his ideas stolen by a coworker. He figures that his career is over and hopes that the rest of his staff doesn’t suffer his same fate. Berating himself for ignoring the advice of others and being played for the fool he knows himself to be, Joel anesthetizes his sorrows with alcohol. Joel’s associate Bryce manages to kick him out of his alcoholic stupor and offers him a proposition – don’t get mad, get even. Joel has worked with Bryce for months and has paid so little attention that he cannot even remember Bryce’s name, so this offer is a surprise to him. Bryce has been duped in the past by the very same coworker, however, and he is determined to help Joel get even.

Business Before Pleasure is a quick and enjoyable read. Joel’s viewpoint/voice is very engaging as he kicks himself in hindsight and calls himself all kinds of a fool for allowing himself to be taken advantage of by his predatory lover. He is also an extremely funny drunk. The reader is formally introduced to Bryce through Joel’s alcoholic haze, and the scene is comical enough to make you laugh out loud. The reader doesn’t get to know Bryce quite as well as Joel, but Bryce has a dry humor to him that fits the story very well. Anticipation of seeing Charles, the dishonest coworker, get his comeuppance will keep the reader glued to this story to the end and entertained the whole time.

Reviewed by: Whitney