Publishers Weekly
02/19/2024
A newly divorced 39-year-old embarks on a journey of self-discovery in this heartfelt contemporary from Abedi (Shadow). After Avalie Monfared’s 13-year marriage to her high school sweetheart ends in cheating and betrayal, Avalie is uprooted. After briefly moving back in with her parents, she’s determined to redirect her life. Ignoring the protective advice of her traditional Persian relatives, who encourage her to remarry as quickly as possible, Avalie sets out on a summer mission to learn more about herself and about men, while bouncing around glamorous L.A. zip codes and sleeping on her friends’ couches. What ensues is a wonderfully witty chronicle of awkward first dates, with Avalie slowly coming to understand what makes a relationship work, guided along the way by a supportive network of friends. Though the lack of a strong central love story will disappoint diehard romance fans, Abedi’s emotionally charged portrait of what it takes to heal from heartache resonates. It’s an uplifting ode to self-love. Agent: Lesley Sabga, Seymour Agency. (Apr.)
Rachel Van Dyken
Colet Abedi is known for weaving intricate storytelling along with bringing in her Persian roots in a way that’s masterful. Colet never ceases to amaze me with her poignant words and plot. I devour her stories from the first page. You won’t want to miss this.
New York Post
Best new book to read.
Giuliana Rancic
A heartfelt novel about life’s uncertainties, the mystery of relationships, and the journey of self-discovery. Colet created a poignant story layered with humor and vulnerability about one woman's quest to find the true meaning of happiness and to fall in love...with herself.
AnnaLynne McCord
Who says pain, tragedy, heartbreak and not knowing if you’ll ever fall in love again can’t be slap-your-knees funny? Colet will have you dancing between laughter, tears, and the warm embrace of a delicious journey toward self-actualization. Her book is a beautiful reminder that family is who you love and who loves you. And, at the end of the day, isn’t that all that matters?
Publisher’s Weekly
... a wonderfully witty chronicle of awkward first dates, with Avalie slowly coming to understand what makes a relationship work, guided along the way by a supportive network of friends.... Abedi’s emotionally charged portrait of what it takes to heal from heartache resonates. It’s an uplifting ode to self-love.
