Book Smart Kate

Is She Really Going Out with Him? by Sophie Cousens (Nov 19, 2024) Many thanks to @PRHaudio and @putnambooks for this tender and heartwarming story’s #gifted advanced listening copy! #prhaudioinfluencer

I couldn’t wait to dive into this book, especially after being completely captivated by The Good Part last year. Sophie Cousens once again delivers a story that blends humor, romance, and self-discovery in the most satisfying way.

At the heart of the story are Anna and Will, rival columnists at a lifestyle magazine who couldn’t be more different. Anna is a divorced mom whose life revolves around work and her kids, leaving no room for dating or new friendships. Will, the magazine’s recent hire, is her polar opposite—polished, charming, and effortlessly breezing through life (and the dating scene).

When their editors pit them against each other in a challenge to write dueling dating articles, the stakes are high. Will dives into dating apps, while Anna lets her kids pick her dates. What follows is a whirlwind of hilarious, awkward, and surprisingly insightful dates, from a movie star to a rock climber to an Austen enthusiast (and more). Along the way, Anna experiences a powerful awakening—about her post-divorce life, her relationships, and herself.

As the weeks pass, Anna and Will’s rivalry softens into something much deeper. Anna begins to see the real Will behind the perfect façade, but just as their chemistry intensifies, their careers pull them in different directions.

This story is equal parts romance and self-discovery, which makes it so special. Anna’s journey is beautifully nuanced—she gains new friendships, makes peace with her past, and rebuilds her bond with her children. I especially loved Cousens’s metaphor, comparing Anna’s transformation to Fleetwood Mac leaving their blues era and stepping into their iconic rock era. It perfectly parallels Anna’s transition into a new phase of her life—bolder, freer, and more self-assured. If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, reflect, and cheer for its characters, this is it.

The audiobook (11h, 42m) is a solo narration by Kerry Gilbert, who also narrated The Good Part.