Sophie Cousens, the bestselling author of This Time Next Year and Before I Do, returns with a charming and insightful exploration of love after divorce in her latest novel. Is She Really Going Out with Him? masterfully weaves humor, heart, and contemporary relationship dynamics into a story that feels both timely and timeless.
The Story
Anna Appleby, a thirty-eight-year-old journalist and mother of two, finds herself navigating the unfamiliar waters of dating after divorce. When her job at Bath Living magazine is threatened, she pitches an unusual column idea: letting her children choose her dates – but with one crucial twist. No dating apps allowed. All potential suitors must be found in real life, leading to a series of encounters ranging from endearing to disastrous.
Character Development & Relationships
Cousens excels at creating multidimensional characters who feel remarkably real. Anna’s journey from reluctant dater to someone open to love again is beautifully crafted. Her relationship with her children, twelve-year-old Jess and seven-year-old Ethan, forms the emotional core of the story. The author skillfully portrays the complexities of co-parenting with her ex-husband Dan, who is expecting a baby with his younger girlfriend Sylvie.
The introduction of Will Havers, Anna’s workplace rival turned love interest, brings a delicious enemies-to-lovers dynamic to the narrative. Their banter is sharp, witty, and laden with sexual tension that practically sizzles off the page.
Strengths
Rich Character Dynamics
- Complex family relationships
- Authentic portrayal of single parenthood
- Well-developed secondary characters
- Realistic dialogue
Emotional Depth
The novel tackles serious themes with sensitivity:
- Post-divorce healing
- Modern parenting challenges
- Workplace dynamics
- Online vs. offline relationships
- Self-discovery and personal growth
Writing Style
Cousens’s prose is engaging and accessible, peppered with humor that feels natural rather than forced. She has a particular talent for writing scenes that blend comedy with poignant moments of reflection.
Notable Elements
Modern Take on Dating
“Is She Really Going Out with Him?” offers a refreshing perspective on modern dating, particularly for those re-entering the dating scene in their late thirties. The contrast between online and offline dating provides interesting commentary on contemporary relationship culture.
Authenticity
The author’s portrayal of single parenthood and workplace dynamics rings true. Anna’s struggles with balancing her personal life, career, and parenting responsibilities feel genuine and relatable.
Areas for Improvement
While the novel is largely successful, there are a few elements that could have been stronger:
- The pacing occasionally slows in the middle sections
- Some secondary plotlines could have been more fully developed
- The resolution of certain conflicts feels slightly rushed
Cultural Commentary
“Is She Really Going Out with Him?” provides intelligent commentary on several contemporary issues:
- The impact of social media on relationships
- Modern workplace dynamics
- The challenges of dating as a single parent
- The pressure to “bounce back” after divorce
Comparison to Other Works
Fans of Beth O’Leary’s The Flatshare and Emily Henry’s Beach Read will find similar elements of wit and romance here. However, Cousens brings her own unique voice to the genre, particularly in her handling of family dynamics and second-chance romance.
Innovation in the Genre
What sets this novel apart from typical romantic comedies is its focus on the reality of modern relationships rather than fairy-tale endings. The author doesn’t shy away from showing the messy parts of life after divorce, making the eventual romance feel earned rather than convenient.
Technical Aspects
Structure
“Is She Really Going Out with Him?” is well-structured, alternating between Anna’s dating adventures and her personal growth. The parallel storylines of her professional and romantic life complement each other effectively.
Pacing
While generally well-paced, some readers might find the middle section slightly drawn out. However, the momentum picks up significantly in the final third of the book.
Impact and Resonance
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its ability to balance light-hearted romance with deeper themes of self-discovery and personal growth. It tackles relevant issues while maintaining an optimistic outlook that never feels forced or unrealistic.
Target Audience
“Is She Really Going Out with Him?” will particularly appeal to:
- Fans of contemporary romance
- Readers who enjoy family-centered fiction
- Those interested in modern dating dynamics
- Anyone who appreciates witty British humor
Final Verdict
Despite minor pacing issues, it succeeds as both a romantic comedy and a thoughtful exploration of modern relationships. Cousens has crafted a story that is simultaneously entertaining and insightful, making it a worthy addition to the contemporary romance genre.
Recommendation
This novel is highly recommended for readers who enjoy:
- Smart, contemporary romance
- Complex family dynamics
- Realistic portrayal of modern relationships
- British humor and setting
- Strong character development
The book offers enough depth to satisfy readers looking for more than just romance, while maintaining the charm and humor that fans of the genre expect. It’s perfect for a weekend read or book club discussion, offering plenty of material for conversation about modern dating, parenting, and self-discovery.