A little humor and romance is perfect in this friends to lovers trope book.
I personally have been married for 16 years, but I couldn't imagine dating now days. I think this would be exactly how this would go.

I look forward to reading more by Jenny Howe.

It is refreshing to have a plus sized character in a rom-com amid a sea of skinny and fit ones. Haleigh made me laugh- her personality and her dates were just hilarious. The love between her and Jack made the romance so realistic that I wouldn't mind a double date with them! I loved this read!

I had the opportunity to read this on NetGalley, and holy cow, this book was adorable, funny, relatable and swoon worthy!

Description: “Dating as a plus-size woman has been exhausting for Haleigh Berkshire. Sure, she's only twenty-five, but she's been doing it for a decade, and she's beginning to think it's time for a sabbatical. It doesn't help that she's been madly in love with her best friend, Jack, for years—but one disastrous weekend in college taught her the hard way that they'll never be more than friends.

With her sister's engagement celebration fast approaching, and her friends and family nagging her about a plus-one, Haleigh and Jack do what they do best: scheme. Haleigh agrees to let her friends and family set her up with ten people—and she's sure that, once none of them prove to be good matches, her loved ones will finally let her fade into romantic retirement in peace.

To her surprise, some of Haleigh’s dates go better than expected, and for the first time in forever, she's actually having fun. Until Jack starts breaking all the rules they’d made to mend their friendship in college. He produces a laundry list of flaws for everyone she likes, crashes some of her nights out, and finally shocks her by throwing himself into the mix. Dating Jack has always been the dream, but Haleigh is afraid of the reality. Is it worth risking her best friend for something that may have never been meant to be?”

Haleigh was incredibly relatable, and I loved having a FMC that was perfectly imperfect. I loved the mental health representation in both of the main characters, and how Jenny L. Howe portrays anxiety and how the characters worked through it and how it was a positive proponent for therapy.

I found myself laughing along with Haleigh’s disastrous dates, nervous along with her, and swooning over the adorable love interests! This was overall such an enjoyable read and I couldn’t get enough!

I'd have to give this a 3.50 stars. This was a struggle to get through, but I pushed through it. The synopsis didn't match the story of the book at all and was very misleading about the storyline. I did love the character Haleigh and getting to experience her struggle with life and dating. I definitely enjoyed all her different dates which made me laugh. Her friendship with Jack definitely reminded me of my friendship with my best guy friend. There were parts of the book that seemed to drag which made me have to stop reading and go and pick up another book so that I didn't want to bang my head against the wall. When it did pick up then it was full steam ahead. I did enjoy this book, but I don't see myself doing a reread of it.

A charming little friends-to-lovers romance. It went by quick and I felt like I was just getting a tiny slice of the richness of each character. Much like the Bachelor/Bachelorette, I hope the person who did not get their happy ending this time gets his/her own sequel.

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing this digital arc in exchange for an honest review

It is my humble opinion that this is Jenny‘s best book yet!

I am always absolutely absorbed by her characters and their lives but this surpassed all others. Haleigh’s journey through life was a little uncanny for me. I completely saw myself in her character, almost an exact mirror image, and felt a little less unmoored.

Jenny reflects in her acknowledgments how she wrote some of her own experiences with mental health into Haleigh and all I can say is I completely understand.

The power authors have when writing about mental health and body positivity is precarious at best, but Jenny clearly understood the importance and sensitive nature these topics can create. She is eloquent and realistic, which produced a well balanced and relatable story.

It’s no secret that this is my favorite of her books so far and I can’t wait until her next publication!

How to Get a Life in Ten Dates by Jenny L Howe is scheduled to be published December 10th, 2024.
I highly recommend this book as essential literature, for any romance reader.

Jenny L. Howe’s *How to Get a Life in Ten Dates* is a delightful and heartwarming exploration of love, self-discovery, and the unpredictable journey to finding happiness. In this charming romantic comedy, Howe blends humor with genuine emotion, creating a story that’s as much about personal growth as it is about finding the right person to share your life with.

The novel follows the life of Sophie Andrews, a thirty-something who has spent more time focusing on her career than her love life. Feeling the weight of her friends’ advice and societal expectations, Sophie decides to take a leap into the world of dating. But instead of just looking for love, Sophie’s determined to use this experience to figure out what she truly wants from life. She sets a challenge for herself: ten dates, ten chances to discover who she is and what she needs to be truly happy.

Sophie is a refreshingly relatable protagonist, with a mix of self-deprecating humor and genuine vulnerability that makes her easy to root for. Howe captures the anxiety and excitement of dating in the modern world, from the awkwardness of first dates to the thrill of potential connections. Sophie’s internal journey is just as compelling as her romantic endeavors, as she begins to confront her fears, past mistakes, and the parts of herself she’s been neglecting.

The structure of the novel, with each chapter focusing on a different date, keeps the pacing lively and the reader engaged. Each date brings new challenges, surprises, and lessons, making for a series of mini-stories within the larger narrative. Howe’s ability to blend humor with moments of introspection ensures that the novel never feels formulaic or predictable. Instead, each date serves as a stepping stone in Sophie’s journey toward self-realization.

The love interests Sophie encounters are varied and well-drawn, each representing different facets of the dating experience. Some dates are disastrous, others unexpectedly sweet, and a few challenge Sophie in ways she didn’t anticipate. These interactions provide plenty of laughs, but also moments of deeper reflection, as Sophie begins to realize that finding love isn’t just about meeting the right person—it’s about being ready to let someone in.

What sets *How to Get a Life in Ten Dates* apart from other romantic comedies is its emphasis on self-love and the importance of living a fulfilling life outside of romantic relationships. As Sophie navigates the dating world, she also starts to rediscover her passions, rekindle old friendships, and make peace with her past. This balance between romance and personal growth gives the novel a depth that will resonate with readers who are also trying to find their own path in life.

Howe’s writing is light and engaging, with plenty of witty dialogue and sharp observations about the dating scene. But beneath the humor lies a heartfelt message about the importance of knowing yourself and not settling for less than you deserve. Sophie’s journey is one of empowerment, and by the end of the novel, it’s clear that she’s gained much more than just a potential partner—she’s gained a renewed sense of self-worth and confidence.

*How to Get a Life in Ten Dates* is a feel-good read that will leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page. Jenny L. Howe has crafted a story that’s both fun and meaningful, with a protagonist you can’t help but cheer for. Whether you’re in the mood for a lighthearted romance or a story about personal growth, this novel offers the best of both worlds. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most important relationship you have is the one with yourself—and that finding love starts with finding your own happiness.

3.5/5⭐️ (rounded up on the scale)
2.5/5🌶️ (open-door)

Things that were done well:
1. The bad dates were hilarious. I found that some of the dates being potential matches, *just* not quite right, delightful.

2. The "I've loved you my whole life" concept was SWOONY. Jack and Haleigh having such a long standing history and the small gestures made their love story feel more rich and have realistic depth. They obviously love each other. The “invisible string” but make it a tapestry of their entire lives.

3. The exploration of anxiety, OCD, and mental health. I loved that the FMC and MMC both show traits and symptoms and use therapeutic measures to work through the symptoms of their individual mental health disorders. Additionally, it was nice to see the growth of the characters via the time jumps in the story. The characters in Hawaii five-years prior were much different, less healthy versions of the current characters. It was refreshing to see imperfect characters that were still working toward better mental health and supportive of each other.

4. The FMC is plus-size and fully embraces her body. When I read "apron belly," I was so excited. Her sister being similar in size was refreshing too. Similarly to the mental health representation, the body type/size of the character was not an issue to be 'fixed' or saved. Not only did the plus-size FMC feel like a whole, actualized character, this rom-com has a passionate sex scene that does not disappoint.

5. I really enjoyed the supporting characters and the banter they provided. Stanton was so funny and frank. "You know there's life beyond Jackson, right?" The overstepping family reminded me a little of the "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" vibe. The grandfather was adorable and curmudgeonly.

6. The Love Triangle! I found myself rooting for both of the guys before the end. I was so conflicted and soooo invested!

Not so great:
1. I desperately wanted more depth to the relationship between Haleigh and her sister. Why does Haleigh believe Joey thinks all of these terrible things about her? As the reader, I didn't find a solidified reason overall. This line of thinking does translate from time to time in Haleigh's relationships with other family members and with Jack, the overarching theme of I am "a mess." I am still unsure if Howe was using the shaky reasoning for Haleigh's feelings of hurt and resentment toward her sister as a literary device (maybe to display anxiety symptoms?) or there just wasn't enough to plausibly support the strained relationship with her sister.

2. The big fight. I found myself frustrated with this being the issue that drove Haleigh and Jack apart. (I did feel similarly when I read Emily Henry's "People We Meet on Vacation," so this could just be a trope I am not a fan of in general.) Jack was definitely an ass to Haleigh and they both needed therapy/growth, but if they know each other so well, wouldn't they have worked this out far before all of this blind date business?

These critiques are minor at best because overall, the story was swoony and fun. I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a funny second chance, besties-to-lovers rom-com.

Also. I sincerely hope that Howe writes a book for Brian. THE MAN WAS A CINNAMON ROLL ANGEL. Like honestly, #justiceforbrian.

Expected Publish Date: December 10, 2024

A big thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. Reviews posted on NetGalley and Goodreads.

I read her first book and knew I had to have this one!!!! Jenny does it again!!! I laughed, I cried…. If you love banter and a HEA this is for you

Reading about a plus-size character was refreshing, but that wasn't the main draw for me. It was great to see representation, but what really captivated me was the story of childhood friends attempting to date.

It was fascinating to see them navigate their relationship, facing challenges and realizing it wasn't working at first. Their decision to create a plan with platonic rules added an interesting twist to the narrative.

I loved how everything came together in the end. Despite the love triangle, the story finished on a satisfying note, making it a fun and engaging read.

Haleigh Berkshire a plus-size women, with too many bad dating experiences to count, has given her family permission to set up ten dates for her. Her sister is getting married, and she is desperate to find a plus-one for the big event. Secretly, however, she is really is in love with her best friend, Jack. She has accepted they will never be more than the good friends that they are.
As the dating begins, Haleigh finds herself exhausted and Jack, who critiques each dates finds something negative about each one. He even imposes himself, or you could say crashes one of Haleigh’s dates. Each date has issues of some sort although some are funny and others a surprise when Jack adds himself to the line-up. I felt the family was a bit too aggressive in believing that one must go on numerous dates to find happiness. And from having just the right plus-one.
I appreciated that the issue of mental health, such as anxiety, and panic was tastefully addressed, as well as offering some useful methods of coping.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and comments are my own.

I am indifferent on this book ONLY because i loved and had moments of dislike.
The main FMC was brilliant in a lot of moments (finding her strength was something I resinated with personally) but i also found her to be a bit obnoxious.
The author's writing style is very good and I wpuld read more from them!

Do not knock it until you try it

First and foremost I want to thank Net Galley and the Publisher for a free arc of this book.

2.5 stars rounded up
I was not a fan I didn’t like the outcome of this book I wish it went in another direction. The main character was insufferable sometimes, no wonder she was single. She complained about financial problems but refused to get a job. Her family was terrible. Oh and lastly Jack sucks !!

I absolutely ADORED this one. This was my first by this author and it certainly won't be my last! The writing was superb, the storyline was great, I just loved everything about this book. The chemistry between the two main characters was off the charts. The only thing that bothered me was that they could have gotten together a whole lot sooner if they'd only talked to each other about their feelings! I don't know why the FMC had to date other people when she so clearly had feelings for the MMC. Oh well. It didn't stop me from giving this book five stars. Brava.

This book had me hooked from the first page! I was kicking my feet and giggling the whole time. It was so nice to see some characters from On the Plus Side too, it was a little treat for fans! I’m a Jenny fan for life

I always appreciate an author who takes the time to write a plus size character who is comfortable in her body and her whole existence is not about her body size and/or making sure someone else is comfortablewith her body size. I also love that there was LGBTQ+ rep with both the FMC and side characters.

I loved seeing some of the characters from On the Plus Side bacm again. I thought this was a sweet book.

The mental health representation was accurate and thoughtful, and it really showed the way anxiety and panic can spiral and create a domino effect. It also displayed what coping mechanisms and thoughtful support from those around you can do.

I love plus size representation in books because as a plus sized woman, it can feel very isolating in the literary world when every character is skinny or model-like. I really enjoyed this book and I can't wait to share it with my patrons.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book and e-arc! 😁
Release: December 10th 2024

Genre: Rom-Com
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️/5
🚨NOT YA🚨

Plot: Haleigh the main character is working on her transition into a more stable adulthood and has been struggling with dating since high school. Her best friend Jack means a lot to her and she’s been secretly in love with him for 5 years. They kept a set of 10 rules that you learn about over the course of the book to keep their friendship and FRIENDship. In order to get over Jack and to become more open about dating and adulthood… her friends and family set her up on 10 dates which she goes on over the course of the book. Haleigh learns a lot about herself and what love means to her over the entire book

Tropes: friends to lovers, childhood best friend, love triangle, second chance romance, comedy

Things I enjoyed:

-Has you thinking about future plot lines and turning points right from the beginning
-I loved seeing a learning about the different family dynamics during the challenge
-I loved the 🌮 Tuesday scene ifykyk
-I love the general concept of this book because it left plenty of room for humor, romance, and relationships
-Nothing felt dragged on and it was the perfect amount of detailed
-Interesting to see the past timeline
-I LOVED seeing Haleigh grow as a person as she learns to share her true feelings
-I liked to hear about Stanton and Ryan’s relationship with Haleigh and Jack
-Has the reader making their own list of pros and cons

Favorite quote 💝: “God he was a dork. And that only made him hotter.”

Overall I absolutely loved this book I liked the romance with some humor added into the story as well as it being SUPER fast paced.

Great plus-size representation but hated the "she's just a friend" trope as someone who has been on the other side of this... this one confirmed everything I suspected and honestly was a bit triggering. I'm sure it will work for others, but it didn't work for me.

Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC!

2.5 ⭐️rounded up. The synopsis really drew me in and I really enjoyed the plus size rep and lgbtqia+ rep. I thought Hailey had potential as a character but I struggled to relate to her relentless focus on finding “the one,” especially when her family were pressuring her so much. While the concept of the dates held promise it clearly was just a thin device for Jack to decide he wanted Hailey enough to try. I didn’t feel her relationship with Jack was terribly healthy and I couldn’t bring myself to root for them to get together.