Book Review: Back After This by Linda Holmes
There’s something about a good book that promises fresh starts and unforeseen connections that immediately draws me in, and Back After This by Linda Holmes did just that. As a longtime fan of Holmes’ earlier works, Evvie Drake Starts Over and Flying Solo, I was thrilled to dive into her latest offering. The allure of a woman rediscovering herself through a whirlwind of twenty dates? Count me in!
At the heart of the story is Cecily Foster, a longtime podcast producer with dreams of hosting her own show. When her boss dangles the opportunity for her and her friend-turned-mentee, Julie, to create a project of their choosing, it comes with a catch: Cecily must embark on a series of twenty dates orchestrated by a life coach, Eliza Cassidy. The twist? Just before the show kicks off, Cecily meets Will, a charming guy who’s chasing after his runaway Great Dane, Buddy. Their chance encounter is delightful, sparking immediate chemistry, yet Eliza’s directive keeps Cecily stuck in a comedic yet frustrating entanglement.
Holmes expertly weaves themes of self-discovery, ambition, and the complexities of modern dating into her narrative. While the initial chapters had me a tad skeptical—layered with office politics and technical jargon—I was soon absorbed by Cecily’s journey. The book swiftly transitions from the mundane to moments of introspection and hilarity. Although I found the trend of female protagonists navigating pre-selected dates popping up in other recent reads, what sets Back After This apart is its focus on Cecily’s internal growth rather than the escapades of her dates. In fact, I appreciated how Holmes chose to summarize all twenty dates in just one chapter. It allowed deeper exploration of Cecily’s relationships, particularly with Will, whose ambition is deemed “not enough” by Eliza, yet whose sincerity and charm won my heart.
Holmes’ writing style is warm and witty, a testament to her knack for blending humor with heartfelt moments. I found myself chuckling at the unexpected mentions of Buddy’s “bully sticks” (what a treat for dog owners!), serving as a quirky, relatable touch that accentuated the light-heartedness of the narrative.
One standout element for me was the exploration of serendipity. As Cecily and Will’s paths continue to intersect, I couldn’t help but root for their connection, questioning whether their encounters were mere coincidences or guided by fate. The emotional pull felt genuine, steering me through a rollercoaster of feelings alongside Cecily.
In conclusion, Back After This is perfect for readers who appreciate character-driven narratives that explore personal growth amid the chaos of modern life. If you enjoy stories rich with humor, nuance, and the trials of dating in the digital age—plus a few furry friend antics—this book belongs on your shelf. My reading experience felt like a delightful chat with a friend over coffee, leaving me with both smiles and reflective moments long after I turned the last page. Thank you to Ballantine Books for the gifted ARC via NetGalley; this honest review is simply a reflection of a captivating afternoon spent with Cecily, Will, and their canine companion.
Happy reading!
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