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Margie Bunting's Reviews > Back After This
Back After This
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Linda Holmes' writing is so clever and heartfelt that I wish she would release a book more frequently than every three years. I know she's busy with her job at NPR (I am a regular Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast listener), but right now I'm delighted to be able to sit down and read an advance copy of her newest, Back After This, which I devoured in a couple of sittings.
Linda knows a thing or two about podcasting, and so does the main character, Cecily. Her boss treats her more like a utility player, even though he swears she is his best editor and producer, while Cecily dreams of having her own podcast. With the business in financial trouble, a guaranteed-killer podcast is needed to save them from cutbacks. That's the only reason Cecily reluctantly agrees to be the centerpiece of this podcast where, under the direction of a popular influencer and relationship coach, she goes on 20 dates to find her soulmate. I should mention that Cecily's love life has been stalled since her breakup with a man who stole her work and conveniently fell out of love with her.
I'm happy to say that there is very brief coverage of most of the dates, and that the focus of the plot is squarely on Cecily coming to terms with--and being able to articulate and even demand-- what she wants from a man, her career, and herself. I love the depth Holmes has given not only Cecily, but also her loyal sister and friends, and (eventually) her coach, not to mention an appealing man who is not part of the show and doesn't have it all together either, but who has showed up unexpectedly to change everything. Then there's the 160-pound dog who becomes a cherished character. I also enjoyed getting some insight into what podcast editors and producers do, and what goes into making the podcasts that I enjoy.
Linda Holmes is high on my must-read author list, and I recommend all three of her novels. I think this one may be her best, especially for her ability to come up with unique characters I haven't read about before, and for exceptional writing that brings them to life.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.
Linda knows a thing or two about podcasting, and so does the main character, Cecily. Her boss treats her more like a utility player, even though he swears she is his best editor and producer, while Cecily dreams of having her own podcast. With the business in financial trouble, a guaranteed-killer podcast is needed to save them from cutbacks. That's the only reason Cecily reluctantly agrees to be the centerpiece of this podcast where, under the direction of a popular influencer and relationship coach, she goes on 20 dates to find her soulmate. I should mention that Cecily's love life has been stalled since her breakup with a man who stole her work and conveniently fell out of love with her.
I'm happy to say that there is very brief coverage of most of the dates, and that the focus of the plot is squarely on Cecily coming to terms with--and being able to articulate and even demand-- what she wants from a man, her career, and herself. I love the depth Holmes has given not only Cecily, but also her loyal sister and friends, and (eventually) her coach, not to mention an appealing man who is not part of the show and doesn't have it all together either, but who has showed up unexpectedly to change everything. Then there's the 160-pound dog who becomes a cherished character. I also enjoyed getting some insight into what podcast editors and producers do, and what goes into making the podcasts that I enjoy.
Linda Holmes is high on my must-read author list, and I recommend all three of her novels. I think this one may be her best, especially for her ability to come up with unique characters I haven't read about before, and for exceptional writing that brings them to life.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.
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Reading Progress
Started Reading
October 18, 2024
– Shelved
October 18, 2024
–
Finished Reading
