Lunch Tales: Suellen

by Lucille Guarino

“A tender love story sprinkled with a bit of angst. Slip it into your beach bag and enjoy.” –Linda Rosen, author of The Emerald Necklace

Old scars. New love?

Suellen Atkins’ trust fund has given her everything except love. As the youngest attorney in a major law firm, her life is filled with reckless spending and meaningless flings. But when she dumps her latest wild guy, he doesn’t leave quietly.

Unable to shake the feeling she’s being watched, Suellen runs into an old classmate at a colleague’s farewell. Adam Isaacson is one of the good guys — and that might be more scary than her stalker ex. With the echoes of her parents' tumultuous marriage still ringing in her ears, Suellen can’t imagine anything this promising.

When a shock medical diagnosis complicates things, her proclivity for self-sabotage goes into overdrive. As life turns upside down, her lunch friends at the law firm become a lifeline in the storm. But even they, with all their good intentions and well-meaning advice, can’t save Suellen from herself. Nor can the man who’s fallen in love with her. Only she can do that.

Genres: Ebooks, Romance, Fiction, Adult

271 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 31, 2025

About the author

A bestselling and award-winning author for fiction-drama, Lucille Guarino has enjoyed writing since her youth. Her novel, Elizabeth’s Mountain, has received praise and recognition from Kirkus Reviews, BookViral, The Book Commentary, BookFest and others, and was a 2024 Finalist for the Hawthorne Prize from the American Writing Awards and Kindle Book Award. Also, the recipient of the 2024 Millennium Book Award and the 2025 Independent Press Award. Her novels have garnered reviews such as “compelling,” “enchanting,” and “effortlessly transporting.” Her evocative novel, Lunch Tales: Suellen, embraces powerful issues that snag the lives of contemporary women by addressing Suellen's world of work, love, and a life-changing diagnosis. Lunch Tales: Teagan, the second in her Lunch Tales series, is warm, emotionally absorbing, and offers a practical perspective on grief and parenting, with a bit of family drama. Lucille admits to loving emotion-heavy stories with strong female characters that are as realistic as they are inspiring. Real women. Real lives.

When Lucille is not spending time with her imagination, she usually likes spending it with her family at the many delightful locales in South Carolina.

In creating characters for her novels, she will advocate for them—whatever their struggle or sacrifice, so that hopefully their ‘real life’ stories can champion others.

Reviews

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give "Lunch Tales: SueEllen" by Lucille Guarino a solid 4 out of 5 stars. I would like to mention the flawless editing, as I found no typos or grammatical errors throughout the book. This book was sweet, charming, with a somewhat heavy dose of reality. I enjoyed it.
I appreciated the seamless writing and the no-nonsense style of our author. The writing was very concise and had an easy flow. There was decent character development and some profundity to an otherwise typical love story.
I truly appreciated the light that the story lends to the diagnosis that was received and navigating the intricacies thereof. It really delved into the realities of finding out, creating a plan of action, enacting treatment, the aftermath, and the roller coaster of feelings throughout. This part was very real and raw, yet genuinely portrayed the complexity of the situation.
The things I would change about this book would be adding depth to our characters. They lacked a certain authenticity and richness. It was almost as if there was a feeling of misalignment, a sense of detachment between the reader and the characters. There was adequate background, and the reader got a good feeling of the characters and their personalities, however, the reader wasn't really pulled into their emotions. There was a certain aloofness that gave a mechanical impression to the writing. There was some pretty heavy subject matter covered that lacked sentiment and ardor. I suggest creating a stronger connection between the reader and the characters. To bring the reader more into the head and emotions of SueEllen and what she is actually feeling about what she is going through.
My takeaway is that this is no regular love story. The romance itself was charming and cute, but it took a backseat to the issues uncovered. I feel like more energy could have been spent on developing the characters, creating emotional attachment, and making the reader FEEL! The technicalities of the diagnosis, the added complications and considerations, consequently stole a lot of the focus from the romance itself.
All of that being said, I did enjoy reading this book. I burned through it in less than 2 days, and it left an impression. It was written in a way that made reading it seamless and uncomplicated. I still plan to try to read the other "Lunch Tales" to follow.

[Sarah Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review: Lunch Tales: Suellen by Lucille Guarino

🍽️ Overview
Lucille Guarino’s Lunch Tales: Suellen is a heartfelt, character-driven novel that serves up a delectable blend of friendship, self-discovery, and the quiet resilience of everyday women. Centered around Suellen—a relatable protagonist navigating life’s unexpected turns—the story unfolds through intimate lunchtime conversations that reveal hidden depths, regrets, and triumphs. Guarino’s snappy dialogue and emotionally rich prose make this a feel-good read with surprising heft, tackling themes of self-worth, ambition, and the universal yearning for connection.

✨ Key Strengths
💬 Sparkling Dialogue – Conversations crackle with authenticity, driving both humor and emotional depth.
👩 Relatable Protagonist – Suellen’s journey feels deeply human, balancing vulnerability with quiet strength.
🍷 Thematic Resonance – Explores midlife reinvention and female friendships with nuance and warmth.
📖 Pacing & Structure – Episodic yet cohesive, like a shared meal with an old friend.

⚠️ Considerations
🔄 Familiar Tropes – Some plot beats may feel predictable for readers seeking high-stakes drama.
☕ Niche Appeal – Best suited for fans of introspective, character-focused women’s fiction.

⭐ Score Breakdown (0–5 Stars)
✍️ Prose & Voice → ★★★★ (4/5)
🎭 Character Development → ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
📜 Plot Execution → ★★★☆ (3.5/5)
💞 Emotional Impact → ★★★★ (4/5)

Overall: ★★★★ (4/5)
A literary comfort meal—nourishing, flavorful, and lingered over.

🎯 Perfect For Fans Of
📚 Novels like The Friday Night Knitting Club or Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
💬 Stories where dialogue drives the narrative
🍂 Midlife rediscovery and the beauty of ordinary moments

🙏 Gratitude
Thank you to NetGalley and Lucille Guarino for the advance review copy. Lunch Tales: Suellen is a testament to Guarino’s talent for crafting stories that feel like a shared confession—intimate, uplifting, and utterly real.

(Note: Review based on an uncorrected proof.)

[_sassy_39 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lunch Tales: Suellen by Lucille Guarino is an engaging and immersive novel that captivates readers from the very beginning. The story follows Suellen, a 28-year-old attorney who has grown up in luxury, thanks to her family's immense wealth. Her great-grandfather made strategic investments in Manhattan's tenant properties, passing down a fortune that Suellen now enjoys.

Suellen’s love life is complicated—her relationship with Steve has been tumultuous, marked by frequent breakups and reconciliations. Their most recent split, however, comes as a relief to her father, who never approved of Steve as a potential husband. Soon after she reconnects with Adam, a childhood friend from her elementary school days. Both of them find themselves single, raising the question of whether their renewed friendship will blossom into something deeper.

As Suellen’s story unfolds, she is confronted with an unexpected and life-changing event—she discovers a lump in her breast. This moment introduces a profound and emotional turning point in her life. How will she handle this new reality, and what impact will it have on her relationships?

Lucille Guarino’s writing is smooth and engaging, making this novel an enjoyable and effortless read. Suellen is a well-developed and likable character, drawing readers into her world with ease. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, ensuring that there are no dull moments. The book’s cover is visually striking, and the title is fitting for the narrative.

[Janvi Santwani · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, Lunch Tales: Suellen draws you into the life of a woman who seemingly has it all—wealth, career success, and a carefree lifestyle—but is deeply lost when it comes to love. Suellen's character is both intriguing and flawed, making her journey relatable. The book immediately sets a gripping tone with the presence of a stalker ex, adding suspense, while an unexpected romance with Adam Isaacson introduces warmth and hope. The contrast between Suellen’s past heartbreaks and her growing connection with Adam makes for an emotionally layered read.

Guarino’s writing is engaging, blending sharp dialogue, vivid descriptions, and an authentic portrayal of Suellen’s struggles. The themes of trust, self-worth, and overcoming emotional baggage resonate deeply. The inclusion of Suellen’s workplace friendships adds depth, showing how relationships outside of romance can be just as transformative. The novel also doesn’t shy away from real-life hardships, especially with the medical diagnosis twist, making Suellen’s journey even more compelling.

In short this book is an emotional rollercoaster that keeps you hooked till the last page. Suellen’s character growth is raw and believable, and Adam’s unwavering presence adds a touching layer of hope. The book reminds us that love isn’t just about finding the right person—it’s also about being ready to accept it. A heartfelt, well-written story that’s definitely worth a read!

[Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

✍️📚📚Lunch Tales by Lucille Guarino is a delightful and evocative exploration of the simple yet profound moments that unfold around the midday meal. Guarino’s writing is imbued with a warmth and authenticity that invites readers to savor each story as if they were sharing a table with the characters. Her ability to weave humor, nostalgia, and poignant observations into bite-sized narratives makes this collection a standout.💯💯

✍️📚📚The submenu structure of the book is a clever touch, offering readers a curated selection of tales that cater to diverse tastes—whether you’re in the mood for a lighthearted anecdote or a deeper reflection on human connection. Guarino’s prose is crisp and engaging, with a knack for capturing the quirks of everyday life. Each story feels like a perfectly plated dish, leaving you satisfied yet eager for the next course.💯💯

✍️📚📚What truly sets Lunch Tales apart is its universal appeal. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a lover of slice-of-life storytelling, or simply someone who appreciates the artistry of well-crafted prose, Guarino’s work resonates. The book is a testament to the idea that some of life’s most meaningful moments happen over a shared meal.💯💯

✍️📚📚Lunch Tales is a literary treat a collection that nourishes the soul as much as the mind. Lucille Guarino has crafted something special, and this book deserves a spot on every reader’s shelf. Highly recommended! 💯💯

[Samantha✨ [reads everythinggggg] · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️

I received Lunch Tales: Suellen by Lucille Guarino through a Goodreads giveaway, and I feel so lucky to have had the chance to read it — I’m not sure it would have landed on my radar otherwise, and I would have truly missed out!

I absolutely loved this book and felt a deep emotional connection to Suellen. I found myself laughing with her, crying with her, and really feeling her journey every step of the way.

Going in, I expected a sweet romance — and while that’s certainly part of it, I was pleasantly surprised by the emotional depth and complexity of the story. It offered so much more than I anticipated.

Suellen’s path from chaos to clarity is heartfelt, humorous, and incredibly authentic. The book strikes a beautiful balance between romance and the messiness of real life. It’s clear that every scene was written with care, and the result is something genuinely moving.

I especially appreciated that this story doesn’t rely on overused romantic tropes or glossed over day-to-day realities. It takes its time, letting the characters and their experiences unfold in a way that feels both natural and satisfying.

If you’re drawn to character-driven romances with emotional richness and relatable challenges, this book is absolutely for you. Highly recommend!

[Marvin V. · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the greatest strengths of Lunch Tales: Suellen is its commitment to character realism. Suellen isn’t idealized; she’s flawed in all the ways real people are flawed. She overspends, overthinks, sabotages herself, and mistakes chaos for affection because chaos is familiar. I found this character painfully relatable.

Adam Isaacson is equally well-drawn. Far from being a “perfect hero,” he is thoughtful, patient, observant, and deeply human. What I appreciated most was how the author resists the urge to make him a savior figure. Adam doesn’t fix Suellen. He doesn’t “heal” her. He simply stands steady beside her, offering space, love, and quiet support, exactly as a real partner should.

Even the side characters, the lunch friends, feel alive. Their conversations are warm and sometimes funny, but also practical, messy, and sincere in a way that reflects true workplace friendships. They don’t magically solve Suellen’s problems, nor do they exist just to push the plot forward; they exist as emotional anchors in her otherwise unstable life.

This novel is a masterclass in character-driven romance.

[_catherine_reads1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Suellen, an ambitious young attorney navigating life at a law firm in New Jersey alongside her colleagues. Raised in wealth, she was always surrounded by maids and nannies, never lacking material comforts.

Currently, Suellen is in a relationship with Steve, a man resentful of her privileged upbringing. Despite being unable to tolerate the smell of alcohol and cigarettes on him, she remained stuck in the relationship—until one day, she decided she had enough. When she told her father about the breakup, he was relieved.

Meanwhile, Suellen discovers a new cyst in her breast and consults Dr. O’Connor for further evaluation. To find out what happens next, dive into this gripping read.
The book’s lunchroom conversations brought back nostalgic memories of my own cherished lunches with colleagues. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel—the second one I’ve picked up from this author—and I absolutely love her writing style. The storytelling is vivid, and the cover is eye-catching. If you’re considering this book, don’t hesitate—it’s worth it!

[bookhaven__ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Suellen, an ambitious young attorney navigating life at a law firm in New Jersey alongside her colleagues. Raised in wealth, she was always surrounded by maids and nannies, never lacking material comforts.

Currently, Suellen is in a relationship with Steve, a man resentful of her privileged upbringing. Despite being unable to tolerate the smell of alcohol and cigarettes on him, she remained stuck in the relationship—until one day, she decided she had enough. When she told her father about the breakup, he was relieved.

Meanwhile, Suellen discovers a new cyst in her breast and consults Dr. O’Connor for further evaluation. To find out what happens next, dive into this gripping read.

The book’s lunchroom conversations brought back nostalgic memories of my own cherished lunches with colleagues. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel—the second one I’ve picked up from this author—and I absolutely love her writing style. The storytelling is vivid, and the cover is eye-catching. If you’re considering this book, don’t hesitate—it’s worth it!

[Sneha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suellen found herself stuck in a toxic relationship with Steve. She never saw a future with him, viewing it as nothing more than a fling. However, for her father, relationships were meant to lead to marriage, and he disapproved of Steve from the start.

When Suellen finally ended things with her alcoholic boyfriend, her father was relieved. She reconnected with Adam, a childhood friend, and their bond deepened. But just as things seemed to be falling into place, a life-altering medical diagnosis turned her world upside down, complicating her relationship with Adam. Can she truly move on from him?

This novel aligns perfectly with my reading preferences. The characters are well-developed, and the plot will stay with me for a long time. The pacing is just right, making every moment of the book enjoyable. Lucille has a talent for crafting gripping storylines that keep readers hooked until the very last page.

[Darin Solen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucille Guarino’s prose is quietly beautiful, elegant without being precious, emotional without being melodramatic. She writes with the skill of someone who understands that the spaces between words often speak the loudest.

Her descriptions of Suellen’s internal world are especially striking. Anxiety, longing, insecurity, hope, all are conveyed through subtle gestures, atmospheric cues, and introspective passages that feel both intimate and universal.

The dialogue is another strong point. It’s filled with emotional truth, layered subtext, and the hesitant rhythms of people who want to say more than they can admit. Her writing style mirrors the story’s themes: soft, slow, tender, and deeply reflective.

The prose shines in moments of stillness, during Suellen’s quiet mornings, her reflective thoughts, her cautious exchanges with Adam, and the comforting presence of her friends. These scenes give the novel a literary quality that elevates it beyond typical genre fiction.

[Linda M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel took me by surprise in the best way. I expected a light love story, but Tales: Suellen offers a layered exploration of how trauma and fear of vulnerability can affect even the most successful people. Suellen may have the title and the money, but she’s aching for something real.

Her stalker ex adds a thread of tension that runs quietly beneath the surface, while her health diagnosis turns everything upside down. I appreciated how the story didn’t rush to “fix” her, there’s no magic moment where everything becomes easy. It’s a slow, believable evolution.

The relationships in this book, romantic, professional, and platonic, feel true to life. Suellen’s lunch friends at work are an unexpected highlight, adding humor, wisdom, and heart. This is the kind of book you finish and want to discuss with a friend over coffee.

[Micheal D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first scene, Tales: Suellen felt refreshingly grounded in emotional reality. There’s no glittering fantasy here, just a woman who has made a series of bad decisions trying to navigate the consequences. That honesty is what makes it powerful.

Suellen’s health crisis becomes a turning point, but not in a clichéd or overly dramatic way. Instead, it brings clarity to her emotional confusion. Her inner battles, shaped by her parents’ toxic marriage and her own string of poor romantic choices, are incredibly relatable.

The romantic arc between Suellen and Adam is warm and satisfying. It’s not just about sparks; it’s about compatibility, patience, and respect. This is a story about love as healing, but not as a cure-all. It’s as much about growing as a person as it is about finding a partner.

[Arianna Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lunch Tales: Suellen is a brief but brilliantly observed piece of storytelling. Lucille Guarino delivers a compact narrative that packs emotional weight and sharp insight into human behavior all within a single lunch break. Suellen, the main character, is both ordinary and extraordinary, portrayed with a mix of dry wit, vulnerability, and understated resilience that keeps you hooked.

What makes this story special is its slice-of-life realism. Guarino masterfully captures the little things awkward silences, internal monologues, casual cruelty and makes them feel significant. There's subtle commentary here on how women are perceived, how people mask their pain, and how much can happen in the quietest moments.

Quick read, but full of flavor. Like a well-made lunch, it’s satisfying and leaves you thinking about it hours later.

[Liz Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a very pleasant surprise. I had expected just another romance novel (I love those! No shade! lol), but this was much more than that. The romance aspect was there, but most of the book it wasn't the main focus. I enjoyed how there was a lot of real world things going on in Suellen's life - sketchy ex, demanding job, friend group drama, family drama, etc. and none of it felt forced. I'd rate it 3.5 stars, but since half stars aren't a thing here, we'll round up. My only complaint would be that Adam is too perfect. We don't really see any flaws in him, so I found his goodness and perfect man-ness a little unbelievable. But their love story was sweet and Suellen's bravery and difficulty making decisions that would change both of their lives was very well done.
Thank you to GoodReads for the free copy of this book!

[Virgil V. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a masterclass in emotional pacing. Suellen starts off distant and difficult, but not in a way that turns readers off, in a way that feels deeply real. You sense that her coldness is armor, and you want her to take it off so badly.

Adam is one of the gentlest, most respectful love interests I’ve read in a long time. He doesn’t swoop in with dramatic declarations, he listens, he waits, he shows up. Their relationship is built on small moments and growing trust, which makes it so believable.

The ending is earned. It doesn’t rely on grand resolutions or unrealistic changes, just a sense that healing has begun and that love, real love, might finally have a place to grow. Highly recommended.

[Rose Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself highlighting entire passages of Tales: Suellen. The writing is that good, elegant, honest, and insightful. The story doesn’t shy away from showing Suellen’s flaws, but it never stops loving her either. That’s rare and beautiful.

What makes the romance work so well is its restraint. Suellen and Adam are two people who’ve known pain, and they don’t leap into anything. Their connection builds naturally, through shared conversations, quiet gestures, and the kind of moments that matter in real life.

The book’s treatment of illness and vulnerability is graceful and honest. It doesn’t treat Suellen’s diagnosis as a plot device, it’s part of her journey, and it shifts her perspective in profound ways. A remarkable, moving novel.

[Jann Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers will feel as if they’re among old friends who bond at lunchtime in a high-energy law firm in Lucille Guarino’s Lunch Tales: Suellen, inspired by the author’s own years among female peers as a New Jersey attorney. The book postures as an easy beach read when the man of Suellen’s dreams appears, but deepens when she must grapple with two relatable issues many women face: the threat of domestic violence and a severe medical diagnosis. These common issues, woven into an otherwise frothy read, lend the book meaning with a down-to-earth reality. Featuring women characters (and even one male) who are likable, strong, and supportive, I recommend Lunch Tales: Suellen, and await the sequel, Lunch Tales: Teagan.

[Eira Hawthorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suellen’s story felt so raw and real that I couldn’t put it down. Between the shadow of her stalker ex, the baggage of her parents’ marriage, and her own tendency to self-sabotage, she’s a character you want to root for even when she’s stumbling. The friendship dynamic with her lunch crew at the law firm added warmth and humor to the heavier themes, and Adam’s steady presence brought balance without feeling cliche.

The medical twist hit me hard, it was unexpected but made Suellen’s journey even more layered. What stood out most, though, was how the book shows that no one else can fix us until we’re ready to face ourselves. Emotional, frustrating, and uplifting all at once—this one stuck with me.

[Renee E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Lunch Tales: Suellen, the protagonist's journey is a testament to resilience and the human capacity for change. Suellen's internal battles are portrayed with authenticity, making her character both relatable and compelling.

Adam's presence introduces a sense of hope and stability. Their relationship unfolds organically, emphasizing the importance of trust and open communication. Their interactions are heartfelt, adding depth to the narrative.

The inclusion of Suellen's work friends adds a layer of warmth and camaraderie to the story. Their support and humor provide balance, making the novel a well-rounded exploration of personal growth and relationships.

[Julia Shraybman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lunch Tales: Suellen is a touching and emotionally rich story about resilience, friendship, and starting over. Lucille Guarino does a wonderful job creating a relatable and strong protagonist in Suellen—a young attorney facing both personal and professional challenges, including a serious medical diagnosis. The bond between Suellen and her coworkers adds warmth and humor, making the story feel both real and uplifting. Guarino’s writing is honest and heartfelt, and I truly enjoyed every page. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Lena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guarino knocks it out of the park again with this heartfelt story of friendship and second chances. Suellen's relationships, most importantly her friendships at work, are at the heart of this moving story that takes on infertility, cancer, addiction, and divorce all while showing what love, family, and generosity of spirit are all about.

[Jan Fickling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suellen and her friends bring a story that relates to real life issues revolving around friendships, betrayal, stalking, infertility, breast cancer, and more. The author depicts life’s highs and lows bringing both tears and laughter! This is a great read that leaves you ready for another chapter in the lives of these friends.

[Shalok · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended.
Lunch Tales: Suellen is a sharp, heartfelt, and emotionally honest story about choosing yourself in a world that doesn’t make it easy. Lucille Guarino delivers a beautifully written, character-driven novel full of wit, warmth, and resilience. A must-read for fans of smart contemporary fiction.

[Katie Faulk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blending elements of contemporary romance and women's fiction, Guarino crafts a compelling story of resilience and emotional honesty. If you enjoy character-driven narratives about strong friendships, overcoming adversity, and finding self-love, Lunch Tales: Suellen is a heartfelt and highly recommended read. I can’t wait for book 2

[KARTIK · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Smart, heartfelt, and refreshingly real.
Lunch Tales: Suellen follows a young attorney navigating career pressures, toxic love, and the power of female friendship often over lunch breaks in a New Jersey law firm. Suellen’s voice is sharp, vulnerable, and deeply relatable. Lucille Guarino delivers a beautifully paced story that blends workplace drama, emotional growth, and self-discovery with humor and heart.

Perfect for fans of Jennifer Weiner and Taylor Jenkins Reid, this is a charming, empowering read that lingers long after the last page.

[Avinash Ahuja · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re craving a story about love that’s patient and friendships that are fierce, pick this up. It’s not perfect people finding perfect love. It’s imperfect people trying anyway. And isn’t that all of us?

[Carol Bennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!

I very much enjoyed reading this one. As a breast cancer survivor, I found that many of the thoughts and struggles expressed were similar to mine. Well done!

[Connie Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lunch Tales: Suellen is a story that has it all: themes of family and friendship, a love story, work drama, and a main character you're rooting for! I especially loved the scenes with the 'ladies who lunch,' as those scenes reminded me of the lunch chats I look forward to each day with my colleagues. Guarino's witty dialogue and realistic characters were my favorite parts of the novel. And, the scene at the end of the wedding was EPIC! Women of all ages will be able to resonate with the triumphs and struggles that Suellen and her friends experience.

[Laalmom · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 STARS