Genre: Women’s Lit/ Romance
Format: Hardcover (purchased)
Published: March 19, 2024
Soundtrack: City of Stars – Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone
I avoided reading this book because I saw so many diverse reviews and mixed feelings towards Serle’s other books. Expiration Dates was a fast-paced exploration of love, relationships, and the expectations we set for ourselves, and I truly enjoyed reading it
Here is the thing, I adored the Los Angeles setting. I haven’t lived in LA in 10 years (this month, exactly ), but I still consider it my hometown. Between high school, college, and my years before medical school, the city shaped me, and I loved experiencing it again through Daphne. I lived a couple blocks from where Daphne did. I used to run down her street, and I instantly felt nostalgic and intimately familiar with her life. I have eaten at nearly every place mentioned in this book. It felt good to read but not sure it works for every reader. This novel represented Los Angeles so perfectly that I almost rated it higher for that alone.
Second, I don’t think this novel is for strict romance readers. This is women’s literature with a little magical twist and a romance-heavy plot. I enjoyed the genre blending but understand how it would be a difficult read if that weren’t my niche. There was no angst because even Daphne knew she would end up with these men from the notes she received. I think once I decided this was not strictly romance I enjoyed it more? Serle’s writing is just unique, and I felt myself rushing toward the end of this book because I needed to know the end.
I found the characters likable, but I also didn’t like Daphne’s secret or, more specifically, how she used it as an excuse. I felt she never questioned the power of these notes, and in the end, that became frustrating. I enjoyed seeing her grow and take charge of her life; she really seemed just to be floating through life for the first half of the book. The ending felt quick, and I wanted more time with them.
Overall, I think this ranks in the middle of her books and is still worth a close look for those who enjoy genre blending books.
3.5/ really like it
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