Like most self-help books, I think this falls pretty firmly into the category of being great if it’s something relevant to you, or pretty hokey if it isn’t.

Writing-wise this is stylistically similar to Jen Sinsero’s “You Are a Badass” just for a much more specific audience. It’s pretty light on scientific or factually driven arguments and heavy on word of mouth advice or anecdotes told in a fun and entertaining manner, making it extremely accessible. Each chapter first provides some candid insight from interviews the author conducted, moving into a roundup of the chapters basic lesson and finishing with some exercises readers can do to work on this particular area. It’s pretty simple in that it glosses over the deep work and difficult particulars that having (or having had) an alcohol problem can entail- it’s going to assume you’re in a place in your recovery where you’ve worked out access to therapy and a support system. That said there’s some truly useful information, a good list of resources, and plenty of at home exercises given I found legitimately helpful in exploring my own mind and my relationship with relationships and alcohol. I’d recommend this for someone working through their relationship with alcohol and dating without hesitation.

In her late 20’s the author revisits her relationships involving alcohol. She is concerned about no liquid courage for dating, sex, and romance. She suggests reconnecting with who you are. There are a lot of tips on getting along without alcohol and how to feel good about who you are. She shares what alcohol does to body and mind and suggests setting realistic goals. Share your feelings and be honest with your partner. The tips shared are for anyone, not just those who wish to not drink.

I’m always on the hunt for decent quit-lit books and this is one that I wish I had when I first entered recovery.

Tawny Lara’s Dry Humping asks us to take a look at our three way relationship with alcohol and potential partners, whether they’re sexual or long term. Part memoir, part how-to this book is a guide for those who are starting to navigate dating without booze.

I am a person that is in over three years of recovery, so many of these techniques were not new to me when it came to dating. However, the reflection prompts did have me looking at how I first reentered the dating field when I decided to break up with booze. This book touched on getting back out there, setting boundaries, and working through your own relationship with your body when you’ve relied on alcohol.

If you ever found yourself annoyed with yourself because having a drink on a date is an easy fall back for you, consider picking up this book!

If you are considering entering recovery and are curious, consider picking up this book!

Do you have a friend that is in recovery and is apprehensive about entering the dating field? Consider getting them this book as a gift!

I found this title useful and honest. I appreciate how Tawny took time in the beginning of the book to acknowledge her own path to recovery and her privileges. I appreciate that she included other voices and experiences in the book that made it more inclusive.

I gave this book five stars simply because I can see myself gifting it to friends and having this book specifically on my shelf to add to my growing quit-lit collection.