In recent times, Chick Lit has risen to a certain level of prominence. This is the first book length study that looks into the distinctive features of this much-discussed genre.

Chick Lit is examined in relation to its linguistic peculiarities and their role as far as narrative, sociological and feminist issues are concerned, amongst others. Montoro's stylistics includes a cognitive slant that highlights further readerly aspects of the texts.

The approach illuminates how the genre works, and how it is set apart from others. In this respect, the stylistics of chick lit is understood in its context of production and reception. Montoro evaluates reading processes and investigates readers' responsive attitude to the genre.

This interdisciplinary work explores the boundaries of the stylistics of chick lit and works reflectively, looking at how exploring this genre can help the twofold aim of testing existing models of linguistic and cognitive analysis. It will be essential reading for those interested in cutting-edge stylistics.

Contents: 1. Introduction \ 2. Romance: The formula \ 3. The stylistics of Chick Lit/Cappuccino Fiction \ 4. Social cognition and characterisation \ 5. Cognition and emotion: Cappuccino Fiction’s readers \ Conclusion