First Date Stories by Jodi Klein

Published:September 14th 2021

Publisher:She Writes Press

Length: 256 Pages

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Blurb:

Ellen meets Jim at a posh restaurant, hoping for an evening of fine wine and better conversation. Maria sets out on a walk with a man she’s been looking forward to meeting. In First Date Stories, these women, and others, enter into initial liaisons with well-honed expectations—and come out on the other side with extraordinary tales to tell.

Chances are, every woman in her mid-thirties and over who is seeking a loving companion has a first date tale of triumph or disaster. Each of the candid and memorable stories Jodi Klein shares here imparts a bit of wisdom—with the help of takeaway tips and inspirational quotes—to guide readers through what can be a baffling, intimidating, and sometimes lonely journey.

Before a promising first date, or after an awful one, First Date Stories offers readers the reminder that being single should be celebrated, that not all first dates are created equal, and that every initial encounter has the possibility to become something long-lasting and wonderful.

My Review:

There is nothing worse when it comes to love in my opinion than the first date. I’ve been on the dating scene myself for some time and I dread the thought of meeting someone for the first time. The older we get the more baggage we seem to collect. Even though I hate to admit it past dating experience does colour how I view the next potential love interest.

There are so many ways to meet people these days, whether through dating apps, blind dates, or even the “old fashioned way” meeting someone on a night out. The mind boggles just thinking of it.

This book is a humourous practical guide to dating. It features stories from different women who are all mature meeting a new man. Some of the relationships turn into happily ever after, some are disasters but all are a learning experience.

At the end of each story the author with the help of some specialist advisors gives feedback on where things went well, potential pitfalls and how we should be open to all opportunities.

This book made me look at how I approach dating and gave me confidence in trusting my gut. I tend to give ‘Mr No’s’ more time than I should when instead I should be moving on.

This book is encouraging to all single women of a certain age who refuse to settle and are holding out for the right person. The tips are great for anyone searching for a romantic relationship regardless of age or relationship type.

I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. *Blurb and cover image via Goodreads.