Review of 28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humourous Memoir

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Jaituni Sanghavi
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Review of 28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humourous Memoir

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[Following is a volunteer review of "28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humourous Memoir" by Poppy Mortimer.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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In a world where swiping left and right has become the norm, modern dating can be like navigating a minefield in stilettos. Just imagine diving into a rollercoaster of emotions with each text ping, hoping for a spark but often finding more fizzle than sizzle. What if these fiascos happen 28 times in 28 different ways on 28 different dates? It would be utterly disappointing, wouldn’t it?

Well, it's in this whirlwind that Poppy Mortimer, our protagonist as well as the author of 28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humorous Memoir, embarks on a quest for love, enduring a series of comically disastrous dates that make you wonder if Cupid took a vacation. Her dating journey was no less than a side-splitting expedition through the trenches of romance.

For instance, the one date that kept revolving in my mind long after I read it was Poppy’s date no. 3, nicknamed “The Incredible Hulk." This date took a truly unexpected turn. Their initial meeting at a nightclub led to an adventurous date to Alton Towers that unfolded into a rollercoaster of emotions—quite literally. What began with anticipation and excitement swiftly turned into a comedy of errors and outbursts. From a car breakdown with colorful language to ride-induced rage at the amusement park, it seemed the date was careening out of control faster than a rollercoaster plunge. The escalating temper tantrums culminated in a spectacle at an arcade stall, revealing deeper issues tied to steroid use, which explained the intermittent "Incredible Hulk" moments. Honestly, I was terrified to my core, even though I was just reading the author’s wild experience with this date, and I can only wonder what she must have gone through. However, what I appreciate is that, even in this scenario, Poppy took something to learn from her experience, such as setting a limited duration for initial dates, an aversion to drug use in potential partners, and the realization that observed behavior signals future dynamics. This date taught her valuable life lessons about setting boundaries and recognizing red flags in potential relationships.

Then there was this date no. 14, nicknamed “The Prince Charming,” and oh, he truly was one, until he wasn’t! The date began with Hollywood flair and culinary romance but took an unforeseen turn toward surreal territory. Set in the scenic Topanga Canyon, the encounter with a head chef from a Hollywood restaurant seemed promising until it veered into an eccentric realm. The initial charm was undeniable. He pursued her romantically, offering a folded note amid a curious incident involving discarded risotto and a homeless man. However, what started as a fairy tale transitioned into an increasingly bizarre experience. The chef's meticulously planned surprise date, complete with a lavish outdoor movie setup and culinary delights, turned peculiar when his submissive tendencies surfaced, culminating in an unsettling request to be locked in a cupboard. I mean, seriously? However, Poppy maintained a positive outlook and learned valuable lessons from this encounter as well. She learned about relationship balance and personal boundaries. The date, initially promising, became an eye-opener, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and compatibility in any relationship.

While I could endlessly recount a plethora of Poppy’s disastrous dates, delving into each would make this review seemingly endless. Instead, I've shared these two dates to showcase the intriguing nature of this book. I’m sure they serve as a glimpse into the captivating content of this book and are enticing enough for you to pick it up and delve into its pages.

Thus, if I had to describe this book in two words, then I’d say that 28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humorous Memoir by Poppy Mortimer is an absolute gem. It brilliantly captures the rollercoaster ride of modern dating. Moreover, Mortimer's storytelling prowess effortlessly turns cringe-worthy escapades into laugh-out-loud anecdotes, creating a narrative that resonates with anyone navigating the maze of relationships.

The book is a mirror reflecting the mishaps and quirks of today's dating scene. Mortimer's witty recounting of her 28 calamitous dates is nothing short of engaging. Each chapter unfolds like a unique story, blending humor and life lessons seamlessly. From the towering gentleman struggling through doorways to encounters with self-absorbed dates, each escapade left me laughing, wincing, and nodding in sympathetic understanding.

What I loved about this book is Poppy’s resilient spirit that shone throughout her lighthearted narrative. Her ability to find humor even in the most challenging dating circumstances is a demonstration of her unwavering strength. As a reader, I found solace in the relatable nature of her experiences, often seeing reflections of my own dating mishaps.

Moreover, Mortimer's knack for blending laughter with introspection is commendable. The book not only entertains but also prompts introspection, making readers reflect on their own dating journeys. It's a delightful mix of humor, life lessons, and self-discovery, offering a much-needed break from everyday life while nudging us to ponder the twists and turns of love and relationships. I loved this book and, thus, would wholeheartedly rate it 5 out of 5 stars. What’s there to dislike? I recommend this book without a second thought to anyone who is on the lookout for a lighthearted and humorous read.

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28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humourous Memoir
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