Described as a refreshing and delightful read, this book captivates readers with its feel-good and heartwarming storytelling set in the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles. Daphne Bell, who receives magical slips of paper predicting her future relationships' durations, faces uncertainty when a chance encounter with Jake leaves the paper blank. As Daphne navigates her connection with Jake, the narrative offers insights into her past romances and her close bond with her best friend, Hugo.

The story unfolds with a mix of romance, friendship, and self-discovery, painting a charming picture of Daphne's journey to find love and happiness. The book's unique premise and engaging plot make it a page-turner that induces smiles and nostalgia, especially for readers familiar with Los Angeles. While offering light-hearted entertainment, the novel also delves into themes of connection and fate.

As a first-time reader of the author, the reviewer expresses eagerness to explore more of Serle's works in the future. The book's relatable characters, engaging storyline, and vivid setting make it a compelling and enjoyable read that leaves a lasting impression. This review was made possible through a copy provided by Atria Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, reflecting the reviewer's authentic thoughts and opinions.

Expiration Dates describes what it would be like if you received an expiration date for every relationship you have in your life. It was a great concept and leads to unexpected outcomes. I thoughly enjoyed the book.

This book intrigued me right away. When reading the blurb, I was drawn in by the fact that Daphne believes the universe has a plan for her and that she won’t always be single. But when she keeps receiving a slip of paper with a new man’s name and a date on it, she knows that relationship won’t be forever. Until she meets Jake, and when she gets the slip with his name there is no date with it. But is the universe correct in that he’ll be her forever? Or has there been a mistake?! This was my first read by her and it was really cute!

I was so pleasantly surprised with Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle. It took me completely by surprise, and I absolutely loved this book!

Everything worked for me! The premise, the characters, even the moment that made me gasp! I loved how differently I felt towards both Hugo and Jake. I just GOT why Daphne gravitated towards one man and why it wasn't right with the other; it came across in the writing, and I could feel it! And don't get me started with this ending. It was so perfectly fitting!

My only irritation came from the over abundant use of the word "heady" (used seven times throughout the ARC).

I got major Taylor Jenkins Reid vibes as I read; Expiration Dates feeling like Forever, Interrupted combined with After I Do, sprinkled with a little bit of Serle's magic.

By far, the best I've read from Serle and an easy five-star book!

Thank you NetGalley and Atria Books for the complimentary copy to read and review.

Serle has done it again. Before discovering her work, I wouldn’t have said I was a fan of magical realism. Serle has opened my eyes though. Expiration Dates was exactly what she does best: sweet, funny love story with enough heart to really keep the reader invested. I laughed, I cried, I truly enjoyed every word. 4.5 stars.

Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books!
Expiration Dates is a tricky little book! Because while Daphne has a secret-and you traipse along quite a while through this book thinking you know all about this secret-there comes a point where you realize there is more secret that you had no idea about…and then you have to feverishly read until you’re done to see what happens!
I will say I had said “Huh, I wish THIS happened…” And I was pleasantly surprised!
Great read!

This is my first book by this author, but it will not be last her other books have been on my list, but I got this ARC so here I am. I found her writing so beautiful, with all the magic and loss that that is life. I really was confused about these slips of paper with dates on men, but it is just a small part of the story. There is so much more and when we slow down and be in the moment what is right in front of us?

Daphne believes the universe has a plan for her and comes with date on each man she dates.
Told in multiple timelines she talks about all her relationships and how they end. Then out of the blue she has blind date with Jake and there is no date only his name. So, she puts everything into this new relationship, but there is things Jake does not know and if she told him, it might break his heart. Can she risk the chance at happiness and second guessing what the universe really wants.

A rollarcoster of emotions that will leaving you wanting more.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the early read of this book. Rebecca Serle’s novels are so cute and I loved the slight fantasy aspect to this one. The fantasy twist from a typical Rebecca Serle read quickly grabbed my attention. I did love Daphnes character and the personal obstacles she faced in her journey for love, I found her to be highly relatable albeit self sabotaging at times, and the ending was a bit predictable!

This was a quick read, great for the summer. 4/5 stars I would recommend this to multiple friends!

What an interesting concept for a book!

Imagine knowing exactly how long each relationship would last the moment you met someone. You could determine up front how much effort to put in, and ultimately avoid (or at least prepare yourself) for the coming heartbreak.

Something about Serle's stories suck me in, even though I know at some point I will be devastated. This book was no different. The story was fun to listen to as the main character muddled her way though various relationships of various lengths. Then, all of a sudden, the story turned heavy and somewhat heartbreaking, but I was still caught up in it all.

Ultimately, I didn't like the ending at all. I feel like it ruined the rest of the story and what could have been. I can understand why it played out like it did, but I was just not a fan. So, that being said, 4 stars from me. I still think this was a good story and an interesting concept to think about, and I encourage evefryone to give it a try. I think this has been my favorite from Serle so far.

Expiration Dates marks my fourth journey into Rebecca Serle's world, and once again, she has crafted a story that goes beyond expectations. Known for her unique blend of women's fiction and magical realism, Serle delivers a novel that is far from the light, fluffy romance I initially anticipated.

The premise is fascinating: Daphne, our main character, receives mysterious notes that predict the duration of her relationships. This concept alone hooked me, but the story unfolds with twists and surprises that kept me thoroughly engaged. The most powerful aspect of the book is Daphne's journey to stop relying on these notes and to start making her own decisions. It’s a poignant reminder to seize control of our lives and pursue happiness on our own terms, regardless of external predictions.

Serle's writing style is refreshingly straightforward and accessible, making her stories easy to dive into. I devoured this book in just a few sittings, captivated by the narrative's flow and depth. While romance is a component, it doesn’t overshadow the more profound themes of self-discovery and personal growth. The romantic elements are heartfelt and meaningful, adding an emotional layer that resonates deeply.

Expiration Dates is a compact yet powerful novel, delivering emotional punches and moments of introspection. Watching Daphne evolve and ultimately find her true love was incredibly satisfying.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance reader copy. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.

Rebecca Serle is at it again with another banger of a novel! She somehow finds the most incredible ways to create a magical story that sucks you in; causing instant gratification.

Expiration Dates is about Daphne, and how the universe gave her the gift in knowing who her next partner will be and for how long. In this magical realism story you’ll fall in love with Daphne and all that surrounds her. It’s a moving, heartfelt story that I’ll definitely recommend to everyone!

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Rebecca Serle, & Atria Books for my ARC in exchange for an honest review. After reading this novel I immediately purchased a physical copy, as well as the audiobook version.

Really enjoyed Expiration Dates! It was a tiny bit hard to follow at first, but once I understood the style, it was smooth sailing. Serle’s stories have. Way of tugging on your heart strings and this one was no exceptions. Adding it to my physical shelf soon!

This is my fourth Rebecca Serle novel and I have to say I enjoyed it just like the others. The storyline was fresh and the magical realism aspect really stuck out to me.

Daphne is magic, well maybe… every time she meets a new suitor she receives a letter with the amount of time they’ll be in a relationship. In over 30 years it’s always rang true, but what happens when someone interferes.

It was a great read.

I adored this book! It was certainly my favorite Rebecca Serle novel yet! I'm a sucker for magical realism in a romcom and I felt that this story was a wonderful balance of literary fiction that made me think deeply but with the lightness and fun of a romcom. I really enjoyed the twists and didn't see them coming, which is always fun. I also loved that Los Angeles felt like a main character in this book! It had me wanting to book a trip! 🌴

4.5 stars rounded up! 💫

We recapped and discussed this book on my podcast, Jolly Cove Book Club, so if you're interested in hearing an in depth convo all about this book once you finish reading it (it's full of spoilers), you can listen on Apple or Spotify or wherever! :) here's the Apple link!

https://apple.co/44JP4g3

Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this copy in exchange for an honest review.

This book opens with an intriguing peek into the main character that made me want to know more. “Daphne is 33 and has had 42 first dates, six significant relationships, and one long weekend in Paris. She had knowledge of her relationship's expiration date from the cards she received.

For years, Daphne had been receiving postcards with her date’s names and how long the relationship would last. The notes were sent to her in different ways and times. Sometimes before she meets the person, after, or in the middle.

I questioned where this narrative was going when suddenly the plot shifts, and readers learn about the secret aspect of the main character the author has been hiding. For the most part of the book, the reader experiences life through the eyes of the main character as she goes on these dates and wonders who would be her forever soul mate.

Daphne, who the reader had perceived as a tough individual, hid herself from the world by projecting an aura of bravery and by coming across as emotionless, and uncaring.

She has hidden her deepest feelings and won't talk about them with anyone. The unexpected plot twist changes everything and gives the story an entirely new emphasis and degree of intensity. It even altered my perception of every character.

Touching! Appealing! Surprising discoveries! I was captivated from the start to the finish. This is the kind of story that forces you to look at your own life, situation. It’s a story you will want to share with your book group. You won’t soon forget this story.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher and NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/

A decent read, but sadly not my favorite by this author. The plot was completely unique, but overall the story lacked depth. An abrupt ending that may leave the reader with unanswered questions.

While it took me a bit to really get into this book, Rebecca Serle pulls out the emotions about halfway through, and it immediately went from a book I enjoyed, to a book I loved. True to her writing style, Expiration Dates is more than just a typical romance book - it reflected on the timeless questions of fate, soulmates, and loving yourself. I always expect more from Rebecca Serle, and this book did not disappoint me. I would recommend it for anyone looking for a heartfelt book focused on the journey rather than a streamlined and predictable romance story.

The idea behind this book is soooooo unique! I love love loved the expiration dates thing, and funnily enough, my perspective of what they meant throughout the book changed as well, although that was mostly due to my own interpretation, i liked to think that the expiration dates rather than being a true “expiration date” which is what the main character interpreted them as, in my eyes, was more like either the time her partners would take to fall in love with her or her to fall in love with them.
Also the expiration dates started becoming a self fulfilling prophecy which was interesting to see it play-out.
I absolutely loveeeeed her friendship with Hugo, and her parents as well.
The twist halfway through was so unexpected but gave so much insight into why Daph was the way she was, so I like that added element!
Overall, i would recommend this book, but break out your tissues because it’ll make you cry like a baby, and also word to the wise, don’t read it on a plane cause people will look at you weirdly when the tears start flowing!!

Note: thanks NetGalley & publishers for letting me read an ARC.

Daphne knows how long her romantic relationships will last. The universe gives her a note letting her know. When she meets Jake she doesn’t get a note so she thinks it will be her forever match. Hugo is her best friend and one of her romances. He loves her, but how can she give him another chance, especially when he couldn’t handle her heart condition that caused the breakup. Can they have another chance and not let the notes rule them?? Can they have true love??
I love magical realism. This book was fun and sad at the same time. I wanted Daphne to finally get her forever romance that she longed for! So who will it be Jake or Hugo?? A fun 4🌟🌟🌟🌟 read!!

Thank you #netgalley for this wonderful ARC. I started this book with no expectations and was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I don’t usually gravitate to stories where I have to suspend reality, but this felt real and authentic. The twists and turns were unexpected and fresh. Great novel, 4/5 stars.