#BookReview - New Normal
Mystee
Thursday, May 30, 2024
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Blurb: After the sudden death of her husband, Emilie Russell just wants to feel normal. But being a middle-aged widow doesn't come with a how-to manual. Her well-meaning friend, Viv, believes the cure to all that ails is simple: a new man. So, she sets Emilie up with her handsome and charming new neighbor, widower Colin. There's only one problem with the plan-Colin is gay.
Emilie embarks on a rollicking journey of self-discovery with Colin as her mentor and best friend. From learning to swipe right without cringing while midlife dating in constricting shapeware to cougar moments in Key West, Emilie reenters the dating pool with both humorous and soul-crushing results.
With the encouragement of her friends, including a new furry one, plus a little therapy, Emilie begins forging a new life, one where she exchanges tears for laughter, and one that maybe-just maybe-includes the courage to find love again.
My Review: Possible spoilers below - this one is a bit tough to review without giving some detail.
Emilie is a pretty average female, there's no boasting about being perfect with a job that provides an endless bank account. This is an everyday story that could be someone's day-to-day life. There is no heavy-hitting drama or suspense, or over-the-edge antics.
Emilie is trying to get over the loss of her husband. We follow her and her ins and outs with friends, family, work, and returning to dating - for about 18 months after his death.
I loved that things were normal. There are so many over-the-edge books that go for some type of shock value. This was "normal" - normal characters, normal jobs, normal problems.
I loved that she found a gay bestie - she needed someone who had been through what she had been through. Though not in a ton of detail, I did enjoy the bits and pieces of their friendship progressing.
The only reason I rated this book a 4 is because I felt a little disappointed with the ending. I wanted to see her complete happy ending, not just her besties.
That said, still a good read when you want to relate to real life and everyday stories...it's like sitting and chatting with your two besties while having a cup of tea. (I do also wish there was more of the dog)
