One man dying of cancer. One struggling journalist. A group of single Londoners. One night that changes everything.
This roller-coaster ride of a story begins the evening a motley group of 30-somethings, fuelled by hope and booze, meet at a speed-dating event. Cancer-stricken Sanjay, lawyer Laure, stressed doctor Geoff, harassed mother-of-four Karen and traumatized ex-con Dan all face each other across the Jacaranda’s gleaming tables in their quest for someone special. Or just mind-blowing sex.
Undercover journalist Harriet is after a by-line, not a boyfriend. She’s a struggling freelance in debt to her live-in lover. Yet soon she unexpectedly has to choose between the comfortable life she knows and a bumpy road that could lead to happiness.
All six of the colourful characters are pretending to be something they’re not. That’s the way, they believe, to make themselves more attractive. But along the dating journey, via death, divorce and dark secrets, each learns you can only find a soul-mate when you start being yourself.
There’s a heart-breaking medical strand and a wealth of vivid detail that reflect the author’s experience as a doctor. The unpredictable ending comes after laughter, tears and every emotion in between.
Over 50 excellent Amazon reviews (US and UK). From reviews:
“Pacy, witty and well observed.”
“This doctor has a very racy bedside manner.....As for the raunchier parts of the book - and there are many - well, put it this way, cleaning the bath will never be the same again!”
“Sexy, quick-witted, eye-opening and heart-warming tale… I recommend it to anyone looking for a polished, well-crafted contemporary romance.”
“Fast-paced, witty and fantastically saucy... Can't wait for the next one.”
“Searingly honest and full of convincing characters, this is a pick me up book that makes you feel better about life.”
“A wonderfully gritty story... with an appropriate and satisfactory conclusion.”
“Great writing, perfectly constructed chapters, and a real mixture of characters, make this a damn good book.”
“My initial impression was that it would be a light and frothy chick-lit type of romance but I couldn't have been more wrong. What I got was a warm-hearted and compassionate story about the vagaries of modern life, written in a lively and fun style. Undoubtedly, the writer has a real skill with words. Her ability to tell a good story really shines through.”
“Racy, realistic and one to relish. Really wonderful debut novel. She writes with understanding, empathy and compassion.”
“Sassy and classy in equal measures.”
“At times dark, at times laugh-out-loud funny, this snapshot of dating in London stays with you long after the final page.”
“There are some dark and difficult issues, but they are dealt with in a sympathetic and readable way. An absolute joy.”