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Book 78 - Back After This by Linda Holmes

I liked the writing style (use of language, dialogue) better than the actual plot, but I would have been happy to read more chapters. It’s always a good sign when I wish a book wasn’t ending, or when I immediately want to see if other books by this author are available from my libraries. At one point she likened a manicured lawn to a prize-winning poodle, and I just loved that description.

Cecily Foster makes podcasts, and with her keen ideas, sharp ear, and solid work ethic, she helped produce one that really took off. Unfortunately it was stolen by her ex, so she’s a bit relationship gun shy. She’s finally given the opportunity to star in a new podcast, but it’s one where she has to go on twenty dates and get a mental makeover from a lifestyle coach. Cecily would rather listen to fifty hours of static than agree to this idea, but her coworkers will lose their jobs if this isn’t a hit. 

Right before she’s set to go on her dating spree, she meets Will while he’s chasing after a runaway Great Dane. They hit it off, but according to her newly minted coach, choosing Will would be repeating old, destructive patterns. Of the twenty dates, only one seems to have potential (a doctor who has his shit together). But she keeps bumping into Will (including him being the waiter on two of her dates). Will only plans to be in the city until his lease is up, and he’s struggling to find his way, working as a photographer and a waiter to pay the bills. She feels the spark with Will, but has to follow through with the dates for the podcast. (8.5)

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