This is a review for the book First Date Stories: Women’s Romantic and Ridiculous Midlife Adventures Published by Jodi Klein which I received a copy of in exchange for this review.
“First Date Stories” is a humorous take on what it’s like to date mid-life which is what my sister Debbie would be doing if she decided to date. Which Charlie and I are beginning to think isn’t going to happen. Although, she deserves to find a good man and fall in LOVE.
With Valentines around the corner Charlie thought we should prepare Debbie for what a first date might be like if we can find someone for her to go out with. Which is why Charlie and I have chosen a copy of First Date Stories: Women’s Romantic and Ridiculous Midlife Adventures as Debbie’s Valentine’s Day Gift.
We all know the magic of first dates is a kind that can’t be replicated. Whether straight out of a fairytale or something of a horror story, First Dates are almost always unforgettable. By the time women are in their mid-40s or older, chances are that they’ll have a story or two to tell.
This morning before we gave Debbie the book, I sat down to thumb through it and before I knew what was happening, I was half-way through the book. I found myself laughing and nodding my head saying been there done that and not going there again.
My favorite story was The Dame in Shining Armour and before you ask me what happened and why this was my favorite chapter you will have to read the book then we can discuss that chapter together just like if we were in a book club.
About:
In Jodi Klein’s First Date Stories (She Writes Press, September 14), readers experience the ups and downs of love with the powerful reminder that being single is something to be celebrated. It is a collection of true tales, combined with takeaway tips and meaningful quotes. Before a promising first date, or after an awful one, First Date Stories helps build dating confidence and reminds readers that others have been where they are, and that every initial encounter could turn into something long-lasting and wonderful.
Some people look at first dates as a new opportunity, others as a chance to snag a free meal with someone outside their usual circle. Regardless, the process is intimidating – especially for those who have been in the dating game for some time or have been thrust back into it due to divorce. A lively follow up to her renowned blog and podcast, Jodi Klein’s “First Date Stories” follows countless women on their journey to finding love; with tips, pep talks and support for the reader sprinkled onto every page. Each story is sure to make you smile, laugh, and even happy cry as you revel in the joys of being single – even though they’re not always obvious.
Preview of the book
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.
About the Author
Jodi Klein is the author of First Date Stories: Women’s Romantic and Ridiculous Midlife Adventures, which will be published in September 2021 by She Writes Press. A demanding career and desire to find the right “Mr. Yes” for her led to Jodi becoming an alumna of nearly 400 dates over the course of 26 years. She founded First Date Stories—the podcast and the blog—as a platform for women to share their tales and wisdom so that others can overcome the trials of dating in midlife and find the long-term love they seek. Jodi is a graduate of UC Davis and holds an MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. She lives with her husband in San Francisco, where she spends time working with non-profits on social causes and rooting for her favorite sports teams.
Advanced Praise for “First Date Stories”
“This collection of hopeful, relatable, funny, and admittedly eye roll–inducing stories wonderfully captures what it’s like to date in midlife, with savvy advice that will make dating easier for readers. A must-read for all single women who are considering getting out there or are back out there.”
―Erika Ettin, author of Love at First Site: Tips and Tales for Online Dating Success from a Modern-Day Matchmaker
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
