A review by klavoie89
An Introvert's Guide to Life and Love by Lauren Appelbaum

lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

In some ways this is exactly what I think of for women’s fiction - following a woman’s life and personal growth. Throughout the book, Mallory is learning to deal with grief (passing of her grandma), new responsibility (taking care of her grandfather), and embracing change (living in Florida, meeting someone, figuring out what she wants in her work-life). 

However, I never really connected with Mallory herself, she came across immature and not willing to take responsibility in her life. She complains she feels life a failure on the work front in her family, but are also doesn’t try at her job and seems to skate by (e.g., forgetting she has work, lying to her boss, not paying attention in meetings). She is said to be an introvert but comes across more paralyzed by self-consciousness (e.g., at the bar age wants there patrons to talk to her, she chats up the barista). And she doesn’t seem to appreciate her grandma giving her the house, instead focus on money (which she could better adored if she didn’t shop online so much). 

Thank you to Lauren Appelbaum, Forever, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.