Did I finish this book? Yes.
Do I want that time back? Also yes.

This is not a Pride & Prejudice retelling or adaptation or whatever word you want to use. The characters are very loosely modeled after their original counterparts and that's where the connection ends. Sure, the plot tries to mimic some of the story beats we all know so well but I think that actually hurt this story more than helped it. Everything felt contrived because they were forced to fit into a structure that didn't work for these characters.

I experienced one shining moment of excitement at the beginning: this is a story about people in their late-thirties and early-forties. I love that! We could've had a really beautiful story about starting over, learning to be true to yourself, and finding love later in life. Instead, we have Ben and Avery and Mal who all act and sound like college kids. The dialogue and actions did not mesh with their supposed ages AT ALL. It was so disappointing.

There's way too much telling. I wasn't able to connect with the characters. Avery is so hot and cold -- and having finished the book, I know why that happened -- and it's a disaster to read. None of the jokes land; it isn't funny or witty.

This one needs to go back to the drawing board.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Rattling Good Yarns Press, and the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.