UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS

Dumped by her longtime boyfriend just as her book of relationship advice is being released, a therapist starts fake-dating an acquaintance from college.

Jessica Gallagher has done her best to not end up like her mother, who never modeled what a positive, healthy romantic relationship looked like. For 15 years, Jessica was in a committed relationship with the same man, and while it wasn’t passionate, she thought it was stable…until he unexpectedly moved out. When she runs into architect Galvin Baker, newly single Jessica learns the Lothario she knew from college has relationship troubles of his own. His Instagram-famous ex-girlfriend criticized his sexual prowess to her followers, and now he’s been rethinking his actions in past relationships. They decide to pretend to date to bolster each other’s reputations. From the beginning, though, the feelings are real, as Galvin brings out Jessica’s hedonistic side and she makes him a better, more emotionally attuned partner. Christopher’s latest standalone romance critiques the pitfalls of modern dating in the era of social media and apps while also showcasing how wonderful a romantic partnership can be with communication and introspection. Galvin and Jessica are appealing, thoughtfully created characters whose relationship hang-ups are realistically influenced by their parents. Their chemistry is sizzling and adds levity and fun to the emotions-driven story. Although the third act breakup doesn’t entirely ring true and makes the finale drag, the happy ending for this perfectly matched couple still satisfies.

Rich characterization and mature emotions make this an engaging read.