ROM-COM FOR DUMMIES

In Diggs’ novel, a TV writer returns to his hometown following his mother’s death and meets a man who makes him reevaluate his life.

Gabe Hartman uses a pen name for his job in Manhattan, where he writes scripts for one of star Aurora Helms’ last remaining televised soap operas. Keeping his identity secret is essential, since he gets all his ideas from gossip his mother shares about the goings-on in his tiny hometown of Concord Valley. Unfortunately, when Gabe’s mother dies unexpectedly, he loses not only the wellspring of ideas for the show he writes, but also the only person he truly loves. Having been burned in relationships in the past, Gabe meets men through a hookup app, but he’s not interested in actually dating any of them. Once he returns to Concord Valley and discovers that his mom had money trouble he’ll need to take care of, Gabe meets Owen Greene, the handsome young lawyer who knows just how to help. Gabe is so disarmed by Owen that he quickly begins second guessing his “no dating” policy, until he learns Owen is already married to another man. Although Owen assures Gabe that he’s in an open marriage, Gabe insists he wants no part of it. Problem is, he can’t stop bumping into Owen, and he also finds himself using their connection as fresh inspiration for the soap. Told in the third person, the book mostly follows Gabe, though the narrator does periodically jump into Owen’s head without warning. Concord Valley is the perfect Hallmark-style town, its quaint inhabitants and traditions bringing a real charm to the story. Although the book is longer than it needs to be, foodies will enjoy the abundance of romantic cooking scenes involving Gabe and Owen, as well as the lessons on gardening and farm-to-table dishes. Moreover, also included are a few R-rated sex scenes that serve to underscore the connection between the characters. Though some readers may find some plot points predictable, the witty banter and endearing characters keep the story feeling fresh.  

A feel-good story perfect for those who enjoy sexy romantic comedy.