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Dater's Handbook
Cassandra Barber has a history of picking bad boyfriends.
And she’s ready to change all that. She turns to Dater’s Handbook, the bestselling self-help book by relationship expert Dr. Susie, to improve her ailing love life. Surely, Dr. Susie’s advice will help her choose between her two new the laid-back, fun-loving Robert, and the sophisticated, dependable George. The two men take her on very different kinds of dates, often with hilarious results. Cass juggles the opinions of her mother and her sister as well as Dr. Susie’s rules and checklists. But is she forgetting how to listen to her own heart? This funny, feel-good novel contains an exclusive Hallmark recipe for Lemon Elderflower Mini Bundt Cakes.
And she’s ready to change all that. She turns to Dater’s Handbook, the bestselling self-help book by relationship expert Dr. Susie, to improve her ailing love life. Surely, Dr. Susie’s advice will help her choose between her two new the laid-back, fun-loving Robert, and the sophisticated, dependable George. The two men take her on very different kinds of dates, often with hilarious results. Cass juggles the opinions of her mother and her sister as well as Dr. Susie’s rules and checklists. But is she forgetting how to listen to her own heart? This funny, feel-good novel contains an exclusive Hallmark recipe for Lemon Elderflower Mini Bundt Cakes.
292 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2019
13 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Cara Lockwood
103 books372 followersI've written more than 30 books in a number of genres: chick lit, romance, suspense, paranormal and young adult. My debut novel, I Do (But I Don't) was made into a Lifetime Original movie.
I grew up in Mesquite, Texas, which for those of you who like livestock shows, is the home of the Mesquite Rodeo. Ironically, Mesquite was named after Mesquite trees, only none of them now exist in the city, which is about fifteen minutes east of Dallas. No, I don't own a pair of cowboy boots, although I do own quite an impressive collection of black shoes. My Dad is a third-generation Japanese-American, and my mom is a second-generation Texan who's mostly English.
I went to school at the University of Pennsylvania, only I'm not sure how I got in. I think these days they only accept students who can solve String Theory. Anyway, I majored in English, and because my dad said "and just what are you going to do with an English degree?" I went to work for the school newspaper. After college, I spent four years as a newspaper reporter, working for an overly excitable editor who sent me running anytime the police scanner went off. I was working insane hours for next to no pay. I was actually sent to cover a grass fire on my 25th Birthday. Let me tell you, it smelled bad. I think some mice may have lost their lives. But that was about it in terms of excitement. Happy Birthday to Me.
So, I decided after I had taken to hiding from my editor in the bathroom at the office anytime the police scanner went off, that journalism probably wasn't for me. I went to work for a marketing firm and discovered that most everyone else didn't stay until ten o'clock every night writing up their riveting story about grass fires. I also decided that I would take advantage of that free time to write some fiction. That's when I started writing "I Do (But I Don't)." A year later, I finished it, thanks to the help of my friend, Shannon, who wouldn't let me slack off and kept asking me for chapters.
And that's how I became a writer. Except that it still feels weird to say, "I'm a writer." I keep expecting to wake up tomorrow and have to go cover another grass fire.
I'm married and live with a blended broad of seven near Chicago, where I'm hard at work on my next book!
I grew up in Mesquite, Texas, which for those of you who like livestock shows, is the home of the Mesquite Rodeo. Ironically, Mesquite was named after Mesquite trees, only none of them now exist in the city, which is about fifteen minutes east of Dallas. No, I don't own a pair of cowboy boots, although I do own quite an impressive collection of black shoes. My Dad is a third-generation Japanese-American, and my mom is a second-generation Texan who's mostly English.
I went to school at the University of Pennsylvania, only I'm not sure how I got in. I think these days they only accept students who can solve String Theory. Anyway, I majored in English, and because my dad said "and just what are you going to do with an English degree?" I went to work for the school newspaper. After college, I spent four years as a newspaper reporter, working for an overly excitable editor who sent me running anytime the police scanner went off. I was working insane hours for next to no pay. I was actually sent to cover a grass fire on my 25th Birthday. Let me tell you, it smelled bad. I think some mice may have lost their lives. But that was about it in terms of excitement. Happy Birthday to Me.
So, I decided after I had taken to hiding from my editor in the bathroom at the office anytime the police scanner went off, that journalism probably wasn't for me. I went to work for a marketing firm and discovered that most everyone else didn't stay until ten o'clock every night writing up their riveting story about grass fires. I also decided that I would take advantage of that free time to write some fiction. That's when I started writing "I Do (But I Don't)." A year later, I finished it, thanks to the help of my friend, Shannon, who wouldn't let me slack off and kept asking me for chapters.
And that's how I became a writer. Except that it still feels weird to say, "I'm a writer." I keep expecting to wake up tomorrow and have to go cover another grass fire.
I'm married and live with a blended broad of seven near Chicago, where I'm hard at work on my next book!
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March 15, 2024
you know it’s slow at work when i decide to pick up the hallmark book that has been sitting on the shelf since i started working here…
May 21, 2018
I had a hard time putting the book down.(5 Stars all the way) I loved it and hated it at the same time. Cass could drive you crazy. She is trying choose a Man by using a Checklist that is very unrealistic from the Dater’s Handbook by Dr.Susie. Since she has not the best luck with men in the past she is throwing out the window all she knows about love and dating. Her sister is all for her checklist. She has dumped her boyfriend(Man of convenience) of 2 years. Who was a total selfish and uncaring.
She meets Robert at her friend Dana’s Wedding and from the minute they meet they have chemistry. He gives her a warm glowing feeling in her stomach (or as I call it The Tingles all over). She second guesses it because she has felt this before and it has turned out bad to many times. But He makes her laugh and knows how to joke with her. He is exiting and adventurous. He loves many of the things that she does. Then theres George.
George is a man she knows from work who has had her company produced advertising products for him. He asks her out but she is not sure why because she doesn’t see him in that way. She accepts because she is following what Dr Susie's book tells her to. She is trying very hard to brake her old Dating patterns. George is completely different than what she normal dates he is very sophisticated and follows the rules to the T. He Loves things she thinks she can learn to Like. He is Very Boring in my opinion. I will say throughout the whole book she keeps second guessing herself even though the right choice is right in front of her face the whole time.
Who will “Cass” choose George the reliable, predictable and uncomplicated one or Robert who is funny, adventurous and that gives her Tingles all over every time she is with him.
This book will keep you reading until the last page. It is a total Hallmark book by delivering HEA!
I received a free 2 copies one from NetGalley and from another author in return for my honest opinion!
She meets Robert at her friend Dana’s Wedding and from the minute they meet they have chemistry. He gives her a warm glowing feeling in her stomach (or as I call it The Tingles all over). She second guesses it because she has felt this before and it has turned out bad to many times. But He makes her laugh and knows how to joke with her. He is exiting and adventurous. He loves many of the things that she does. Then theres George.
George is a man she knows from work who has had her company produced advertising products for him. He asks her out but she is not sure why because she doesn’t see him in that way. She accepts because she is following what Dr Susie's book tells her to. She is trying very hard to brake her old Dating patterns. George is completely different than what she normal dates he is very sophisticated and follows the rules to the T. He Loves things she thinks she can learn to Like. He is Very Boring in my opinion. I will say throughout the whole book she keeps second guessing herself even though the right choice is right in front of her face the whole time.
Who will “Cass” choose George the reliable, predictable and uncomplicated one or Robert who is funny, adventurous and that gives her Tingles all over every time she is with him.
This book will keep you reading until the last page. It is a total Hallmark book by delivering HEA!
I received a free 2 copies one from NetGalley and from another author in return for my honest opinion!
dnf
January 30, 2019I would like to thank netgalley and Hallmark Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Writing is cliched and annoying.
Writing is cliched and annoying.
Read
April 22, 2025About as good of a book as one can be when it’s based on a hallmark original movie
May 9, 2018
I received a free copy of this book from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was initially drawn to this book by its cover. The eyes of the world are on Meghan Markle right now and there is her face smiling right out at one from the cover!
Cassandra Barber has been unlucky in love. Her current male friend cares so little that he brings her food that he has been told many times can send her into anaphylactic shock. (Been there, done that and I can tell you it is no picnic!). Her family doesn't care for him and would love her to find someone who would really love her for herself. Enter the famous Dr. Susie who has written a dater's handbook on how to change yourself to find your perfect mate. Class's sister is all over this taking her to meet the doctor in person.
After breaking up with two year beaux Peter, there are suddenly two men vying for Cass's attention. Determined not to fall back into her old ways which haven't worked out for her, Cass decides to consult The Daters Handbook in order to turn her life around. Who will she choose - the reliable, cultured George or Robert, who is laid back and has the knack of making her laugh and truly enjoy herself? Neither of the two men know she is dating the other and each take her out on a succession of completely different dates. Her sister favours George. Her mother prefers Robert. Cass misses her much beloved Dad who died five years earlier and doesn't trust her own judgement. What follows made me smile and laugh and though I personally knew who her final choice had to be, the journey of watching her reach her happy ever after was a hilarious one. This book is great fun to read and was a great book to read on a lengthy flight. I hope you as a reader will enjoy it too!
I was initially drawn to this book by its cover. The eyes of the world are on Meghan Markle right now and there is her face smiling right out at one from the cover!
Cassandra Barber has been unlucky in love. Her current male friend cares so little that he brings her food that he has been told many times can send her into anaphylactic shock. (Been there, done that and I can tell you it is no picnic!). Her family doesn't care for him and would love her to find someone who would really love her for herself. Enter the famous Dr. Susie who has written a dater's handbook on how to change yourself to find your perfect mate. Class's sister is all over this taking her to meet the doctor in person.
After breaking up with two year beaux Peter, there are suddenly two men vying for Cass's attention. Determined not to fall back into her old ways which haven't worked out for her, Cass decides to consult The Daters Handbook in order to turn her life around. Who will she choose - the reliable, cultured George or Robert, who is laid back and has the knack of making her laugh and truly enjoy herself? Neither of the two men know she is dating the other and each take her out on a succession of completely different dates. Her sister favours George. Her mother prefers Robert. Cass misses her much beloved Dad who died five years earlier and doesn't trust her own judgement. What follows made me smile and laugh and though I personally knew who her final choice had to be, the journey of watching her reach her happy ever after was a hilarious one. This book is great fun to read and was a great book to read on a lengthy flight. I hope you as a reader will enjoy it too!
August 23, 2018
This story had me laughing right from the start. Most of us have been on bad dates and this story reminds us of those not-so-funny memories and turns them into funny. For Cass, the journey to finding Mr. Right is done in a comical and oh, so wrong way. A manual to find a man. Great read!
August 8, 2018
I will be completely honest – while I haven’t seen the Hallmark movie this is based on, I picked this up because Megan Markle’s on the cover and it was released the same week as her famous wedding. After reading the book, I think I’ll definitely check out this movie the next time I’m in the mood for a rom-com!
This novel is told from the first-person POV of Cass, the thirty-something owner of a successful marketing items business (think umbrellas with logos). While she’s been lucky in business, mostly due to her hard work and good sense, she hasn’t applied that same level of work to her love life. Peter, her “let’s not put a label on it” not-boyfriend of two years can’t even remember she’s deathly allergic to honey. Her mom and her married-with-one-kid-and-another-on-the-way older sister Nadia want her to change her dating ways. While her mom reminds her to follow her heart, Nadia wants her to try a TV personality’s bestselling new book. Dr. Susie says women should be looking for someone “reliable, dependable and responsible” – and the first time Cass hears that, it reminds her more of her dog Duke than someone she wants to spend the rest of her life with. But after repeatedly being bashed over the head by reminders of Dr. Susie and her Dater’s Handbook, Cass realizes that she has a habit of dating noncommittal guys – guys who don’t seem to care if they’re in a relationship or not, and she resolves to start ignoring her instincts and instead start following Dr. Susie’s rules. Luckily enough, she’s got two new prospects in her life to experiment on! One is Robert, a dog-loving guy who makes her laugh and takes on her dates to mini-golf and a picnic that’s ruined by rain. The other is George, a long-time client of hers, who’s serious, polite, and respectful, and who takes her to fancy French restaurants and art gallery openings. They couldn’t possibly be more different, and while Dr. Susie’s rules approve of one of them, it’s the other that she feels a spark with. How will Cass balance dating both guys, and what will win out in the end – the handbook, or her heart?
Yes, it’s cheesy and predictable (the one guy’s habits remind her of her dead father, which is simultaneously weird and sweet, so it’s pretty obvious who she’s going to end up with), but that’s one of the draws of these books. It’s sweetly funny – one of the running gags is that Cass has an inner sweets monster, which caused the meet-cute with Robert when she stole a bit of his cake at a wedding. This sets a pattern of her stealing food off of him, and him tongue-in-cheek defending it. Her dates with Robert are playful and adventurous, and their banter is equally cute and flirty. The biggest angst in the book is Cass’s worry that she’s doing something wrong by dating two guys at once. It’s also closed-door to the max – by the halfway point of the book, the most Cass has done with either potential boyfriend is hold hands, and kissing is the farthest they go. My usual issue with low-angst closed door books is that I don’t get a good sense of the couple’s chemistry, but that was not a problem with this book. Their chemistry – and this book – is as sweet as the chocolate cake Cass is so fond of, and sometimes that’s exactly what I’m looking for. Which, by the way, if I have to complain about anything, Hallmark includes a dessert recipe at the end of their books, and I think they made a serious mistake by including a recipe for Lemon Elderflower Mini Bundt Cakes instead of chocolate cake!
Overall, if you’re looking for a closed-door rom-com with lots of yummy desserts, playful dates, and a discussion of what women should look for in a partner, you’ll like this book!
“Cass, my husband is consistent and predictable and average in every way. He brings home a steady paycheck; he always asks about my day. He doesn’t look around constantly for the next thing when you’re sitting right in front of him. Now, that is commitment.”
She’d gotten me. She had. Because right then, in that moment, I realized that’s exactly what I wanted: a real partner, someone to share my life with, not someone like Peter who flirted with every pretty girl to walk into his bar. Standing here in front of Dr. Susie, I knew, for the first time in my adult life, I was ready to get serious about finding The One.
And it started with The Dater’s Handbook.”
This novel is told from the first-person POV of Cass, the thirty-something owner of a successful marketing items business (think umbrellas with logos). While she’s been lucky in business, mostly due to her hard work and good sense, she hasn’t applied that same level of work to her love life. Peter, her “let’s not put a label on it” not-boyfriend of two years can’t even remember she’s deathly allergic to honey. Her mom and her married-with-one-kid-and-another-on-the-way older sister Nadia want her to change her dating ways. While her mom reminds her to follow her heart, Nadia wants her to try a TV personality’s bestselling new book. Dr. Susie says women should be looking for someone “reliable, dependable and responsible” – and the first time Cass hears that, it reminds her more of her dog Duke than someone she wants to spend the rest of her life with. But after repeatedly being bashed over the head by reminders of Dr. Susie and her Dater’s Handbook, Cass realizes that she has a habit of dating noncommittal guys – guys who don’t seem to care if they’re in a relationship or not, and she resolves to start ignoring her instincts and instead start following Dr. Susie’s rules. Luckily enough, she’s got two new prospects in her life to experiment on! One is Robert, a dog-loving guy who makes her laugh and takes on her dates to mini-golf and a picnic that’s ruined by rain. The other is George, a long-time client of hers, who’s serious, polite, and respectful, and who takes her to fancy French restaurants and art gallery openings. They couldn’t possibly be more different, and while Dr. Susie’s rules approve of one of them, it’s the other that she feels a spark with. How will Cass balance dating both guys, and what will win out in the end – the handbook, or her heart?
Yes, it’s cheesy and predictable (the one guy’s habits remind her of her dead father, which is simultaneously weird and sweet, so it’s pretty obvious who she’s going to end up with), but that’s one of the draws of these books. It’s sweetly funny – one of the running gags is that Cass has an inner sweets monster, which caused the meet-cute with Robert when she stole a bit of his cake at a wedding. This sets a pattern of her stealing food off of him, and him tongue-in-cheek defending it. Her dates with Robert are playful and adventurous, and their banter is equally cute and flirty. The biggest angst in the book is Cass’s worry that she’s doing something wrong by dating two guys at once. It’s also closed-door to the max – by the halfway point of the book, the most Cass has done with either potential boyfriend is hold hands, and kissing is the farthest they go. My usual issue with low-angst closed door books is that I don’t get a good sense of the couple’s chemistry, but that was not a problem with this book. Their chemistry – and this book – is as sweet as the chocolate cake Cass is so fond of, and sometimes that’s exactly what I’m looking for. Which, by the way, if I have to complain about anything, Hallmark includes a dessert recipe at the end of their books, and I think they made a serious mistake by including a recipe for Lemon Elderflower Mini Bundt Cakes instead of chocolate cake!
Overall, if you’re looking for a closed-door rom-com with lots of yummy desserts, playful dates, and a discussion of what women should look for in a partner, you’ll like this book!
June 7, 2018
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book for an honest review
Cass is tired of dead-end relationships. You know the type: Non-committal, pretty much inattentive & absent. Spurred on by the insistence of her sister Nadia, she decides to follow the advice of self-help relationship guru Dr. Susie. Afterall, it's not the men that's the problem: it's Cass who needs to change her ways & quit falling for the same type of guy.
Enter two contenders as she starts her new quest: Robert & George. Both men are clearly interested in Cass; but couldn't be more opposite in personality if they tried. The entire story centers around her trying to determine who the better suitor is based on a checklist from Dr. Susie. The story has, as you would expect, successful dates, awkward and/or miserable ones as well & the imminent battle between what Cass's heart wants as opposed to what her head tells her.
I really liked this book. Cass is likeable & all characters have a genuine, relaxed air to them. What made this fun for me is the variety of relationships surrounding Cass & what she has to compare to. Her sister Nadia is married with one son & another baby on the way; mom is widowed but had the 'perfect' relationship with her husband; friend Dana is newly married & riding the wave of new marital bliss. It is fun for Cass to see the variety of relationship types & how this affects her choices. Mom & Nadia’s battle of “Team Robert” & “Team George” is done with just the right touch of humor & seriousness.
The biggest drawback for me was the two suitors. Hence the 4 star rating. It is made VERY obvious who is the better & the 'right' choice for Cass. Perhaps that's the point; but I believe this is a drawback in the story. There is no suspense or tension....you know who'll she'll choose in the end. The story would have more meat on its bones if both men were good choices for her. It would add more substance without taking away the light-hearted romance that Hallmark wants to portray.
A big plus, is the extra inner dialogue we get. Prime example is why she’s distraught over her IPod breaking. You miss quite a bit of character development in the film without this being explained. It’s a great companion to the movie; but gives you much more. This is another fun Hallmark read & if those movies are your thing…you’ll definitely enjoy this.
Cass is tired of dead-end relationships. You know the type: Non-committal, pretty much inattentive & absent. Spurred on by the insistence of her sister Nadia, she decides to follow the advice of self-help relationship guru Dr. Susie. Afterall, it's not the men that's the problem: it's Cass who needs to change her ways & quit falling for the same type of guy.
Enter two contenders as she starts her new quest: Robert & George. Both men are clearly interested in Cass; but couldn't be more opposite in personality if they tried. The entire story centers around her trying to determine who the better suitor is based on a checklist from Dr. Susie. The story has, as you would expect, successful dates, awkward and/or miserable ones as well & the imminent battle between what Cass's heart wants as opposed to what her head tells her.
I really liked this book. Cass is likeable & all characters have a genuine, relaxed air to them. What made this fun for me is the variety of relationships surrounding Cass & what she has to compare to. Her sister Nadia is married with one son & another baby on the way; mom is widowed but had the 'perfect' relationship with her husband; friend Dana is newly married & riding the wave of new marital bliss. It is fun for Cass to see the variety of relationship types & how this affects her choices. Mom & Nadia’s battle of “Team Robert” & “Team George” is done with just the right touch of humor & seriousness.
The biggest drawback for me was the two suitors. Hence the 4 star rating. It is made VERY obvious who is the better & the 'right' choice for Cass. Perhaps that's the point; but I believe this is a drawback in the story. There is no suspense or tension....you know who'll she'll choose in the end. The story would have more meat on its bones if both men were good choices for her. It would add more substance without taking away the light-hearted romance that Hallmark wants to portray.
A big plus, is the extra inner dialogue we get. Prime example is why she’s distraught over her IPod breaking. You miss quite a bit of character development in the film without this being explained. It’s a great companion to the movie; but gives you much more. This is another fun Hallmark read & if those movies are your thing…you’ll definitely enjoy this.
May 20, 2020
3.5 stars
I wanted to read something light, sweet, and fluffy and Hallmark is the place to go for that combo! There isn't much depth to this book but it's fun and I actually do think there are some good things one could take away from it.
First, I do like The Dater's Handbook. The advice is stuff I've heard from reliable people that if you are constantly attracting one kind of person, it says something about you. If you always choose non-committal guys then maybe you're scared of committing. HOWEVER, books are not gospel!!!!! Advice is just advice and nothing is one-size-fits-all. Sometimes you have to take the advice and then figure out how it works and fits in your own life.
It was really easy for me to see that Cass was using the Handbook and George as another avoidance tactic. She was afraid of herself and her feelings so she swung the pendulum in the other direction. I understand her motives so I get it but I could tell what she was doing. I applaud her for not wanting to let emotions rule but what I'm learning myself is that there should be a balance of attraction and logic.
I LOVED her sweet relationship with her dad!!!
When it came to the two guys, they both had good qualities - qualities of a mature guy. Both would have made good husbands but one was better for Cass than the other. I like what her mom pointed out, how you should be genuine and yourself with the person you are serious about. Good thing to keep in mind.
This was a cute, quick read. Reminded me a bit of The Dating Charade (which is so good!). Just what I wanted to read at the moment. I think I'll go read another one :)
I wanted to read something light, sweet, and fluffy and Hallmark is the place to go for that combo! There isn't much depth to this book but it's fun and I actually do think there are some good things one could take away from it.
First, I do like The Dater's Handbook. The advice is stuff I've heard from reliable people that if you are constantly attracting one kind of person, it says something about you. If you always choose non-committal guys then maybe you're scared of committing. HOWEVER, books are not gospel!!!!! Advice is just advice and nothing is one-size-fits-all. Sometimes you have to take the advice and then figure out how it works and fits in your own life.
It was really easy for me to see that Cass was using the Handbook and George as another avoidance tactic. She was afraid of herself and her feelings so she swung the pendulum in the other direction. I understand her motives so I get it but I could tell what she was doing. I applaud her for not wanting to let emotions rule but what I'm learning myself is that there should be a balance of attraction and logic.
I LOVED her sweet relationship with her dad!!!
When it came to the two guys, they both had good qualities - qualities of a mature guy. Both would have made good husbands but one was better for Cass than the other. I like what her mom pointed out, how you should be genuine and yourself with the person you are serious about. Good thing to keep in mind.
This was a cute, quick read. Reminded me a bit of The Dating Charade (which is so good!). Just what I wanted to read at the moment. I think I'll go read another one :)
May 19, 2018
If dating has rules, Cass would be doing it all wrong. She and "boyfriend" (let's not put a label on it) Peter have been happily getting along for two years. Well, not exacrly happily, more like contentedly. It seemed to be working. Well, they can't even say they've discussed if it works or not. What Cass knows for sure is that whatever it is they have doesn't seem to be going anywhere.
Cass isn't even sure "where" she wants a relationship to go, much less how, but her assistant is now headed down the aisle for happily ever after. When several coincidences occur and Cass notices a certain book over and over, she and her sister (married but willing to meddle) turn to the "fail-proof" checklist of author/personality Dr. Susie and her chapter by chapter instructions of finding the perfect man.
If not predictable, there was no huge secret being kept in this storyline. The men Cass is dating are polar opposites. A near miss with them meeting is about the most conflict in the plot. Actually, the competition between mother and sister about choosing the right candidate for Cass's attention was more interesting. While the characters have a certain charm, I would have enjoyed more tension, more turmoil. Who was the better match was too obvious.
That said, this is an easy, flirty read.
Cass isn't even sure "where" she wants a relationship to go, much less how, but her assistant is now headed down the aisle for happily ever after. When several coincidences occur and Cass notices a certain book over and over, she and her sister (married but willing to meddle) turn to the "fail-proof" checklist of author/personality Dr. Susie and her chapter by chapter instructions of finding the perfect man.
If not predictable, there was no huge secret being kept in this storyline. The men Cass is dating are polar opposites. A near miss with them meeting is about the most conflict in the plot. Actually, the competition between mother and sister about choosing the right candidate for Cass's attention was more interesting. While the characters have a certain charm, I would have enjoyed more tension, more turmoil. Who was the better match was too obvious.
That said, this is an easy, flirty read.
October 25, 2022
I decided to read this book because I am a big fan of Hallmark movies (this movie is one of my favorites), but I had never actually read a Hallmark book.
Overall, this book was ok for me. It is difficult to review solely on the book because I had the movie in the back of my mind the whole time. It is a nice story and has the classic markers of a Hallmark sweet romance, but, I did not love the writing style. I felt like I was just reading to get the end rather than really enjoying and taking in the writing.
There is one glaring issue that I had while reading this book.
I would still recommend this book to people who enjoy Hallmark movies and books and similar sweet romances.
For people who have seen the movie, the book provides an epilogue that is not in the movie. You can guess what happens in the epilogue, but it was still nice to read it.
Overall, this book was ok for me. It is difficult to review solely on the book because I had the movie in the back of my mind the whole time. It is a nice story and has the classic markers of a Hallmark sweet romance, but, I did not love the writing style. I felt like I was just reading to get the end rather than really enjoying and taking in the writing.
There is one glaring issue that I had while reading this book.
I would still recommend this book to people who enjoy Hallmark movies and books and similar sweet romances.
For people who have seen the movie, the book provides an epilogue that is not in the movie. You can guess what happens in the epilogue, but it was still nice to read it.
May 11, 2018
In DATER'S HANDBOOK, Cara Lockwood presents us with Cass, a serial dater of commitment-phobic man-boys. Her well meaning sister convinces her to follow the advice a "relationship guru" who's written THE DATER'S HANDBOOK, all about how the issue isn't with the men women choose, it's with the women themselves.
Insert very cliche story line of how she meets lovable guy with whom she feels sparks and reliable guy who makes her feel safe at the same time, and needs to pick between the two. Guess what? She chooses wrong, learns the hard way, and the right one takes her back in the end.
I'm sorry, but if you missed the fact that it was based on a Hallmark movie BEFORE reading the review...let me point that detail out.
That being said, there was one nice thing, and it's probably because the book was based on a Hallmark movie. So many of these somewhat cliche romance stories these days have cheap sex scenes thrown in that neither fit with the plot line, nor the writing style, and if anything detract from the story. This book did NOT have one of those, and I appreciated that detail a lot.
I can't, in good conscience, give the book 4 stars. Wish I could. It's a solid 3 star book. (Had the aforementioned sex scene been in it, I'd have downgraded the book to a 2 star.)
Insert very cliche story line of how she meets lovable guy with whom she feels sparks and reliable guy who makes her feel safe at the same time, and needs to pick between the two. Guess what? She chooses wrong, learns the hard way, and the right one takes her back in the end.
I'm sorry, but if you missed the fact that it was based on a Hallmark movie BEFORE reading the review...let me point that detail out.
That being said, there was one nice thing, and it's probably because the book was based on a Hallmark movie. So many of these somewhat cliche romance stories these days have cheap sex scenes thrown in that neither fit with the plot line, nor the writing style, and if anything detract from the story. This book did NOT have one of those, and I appreciated that detail a lot.
I can't, in good conscience, give the book 4 stars. Wish I could. It's a solid 3 star book. (Had the aforementioned sex scene been in it, I'd have downgraded the book to a 2 star.)
May 15, 2018
Dater's Handbook is an interesting story. Laugh out loud funny, heartwarming, heartbreaking, and just plain entertaining, I couldn't put this book down! I could relate to Cass and her struggle of finding "the right man" for her. Plus, other characters like Gloria, the mom, co-worker and best friend Dana, and more made the plot go by with ease! I especially found the story using the first person point of view interesting this time around. Other Hallmark books were third person. I do wish I read the inner thoughts of the guys Cass liked, but it's nice to have a focus on one particular character.
Even though I found the relationship Cass chose predictable, I loved how Lockwood made both love interests impressionable. Neither one had too much good or too many flaws, and that made them more real and human to me. We all have our flaws, but also a lot of good qualities that should not be overlooked. It's by getting to know people through dates and so on that we get to see these traits. Plus, sometimes advice from family can help. Emphasis on sometimes (you'll see once you read).
I received this book for free from BookFunnel and Hallmark Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Even though I found the relationship Cass chose predictable, I loved how Lockwood made both love interests impressionable. Neither one had too much good or too many flaws, and that made them more real and human to me. We all have our flaws, but also a lot of good qualities that should not be overlooked. It's by getting to know people through dates and so on that we get to see these traits. Plus, sometimes advice from family can help. Emphasis on sometimes (you'll see once you read).
I received this book for free from BookFunnel and Hallmark Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2018
After Peter her sort of sort of not boyfriend and her end things completely, she decides with the aid of her sister to follow the Dater's handbook to hopefully find the one.
She meets Robert first at a wedding and George she kind of does work business with. But Robert is a playful, thoughtful romantic whilst George is a classic, more serious romantic.
With the guidance of The Dater's Handbook, Dr. Susie guides her to choosing one over the other and of course Cassandra's mother has some advice to chip in with too.
Cassandra is caught between the two guys and with her sister on one team and her mum on the other, the Robert or George situation finally comes to a head as she picks one over the other only for fate later to add in a final twist to her life!
What a romantic story about trying to find love! I enjoyed the playful side of things as it shows how sweet romance can be especially with a natural spark of attraction. The writing is fun and upbeat with a natural flow as Cassandra's life plays out.
Fun, light hearted and a great girly read!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
She meets Robert first at a wedding and George she kind of does work business with. But Robert is a playful, thoughtful romantic whilst George is a classic, more serious romantic.
With the guidance of The Dater's Handbook, Dr. Susie guides her to choosing one over the other and of course Cassandra's mother has some advice to chip in with too.
Cassandra is caught between the two guys and with her sister on one team and her mum on the other, the Robert or George situation finally comes to a head as she picks one over the other only for fate later to add in a final twist to her life!
What a romantic story about trying to find love! I enjoyed the playful side of things as it shows how sweet romance can be especially with a natural spark of attraction. The writing is fun and upbeat with a natural flow as Cassandra's life plays out.
Fun, light hearted and a great girly read!
Many thanks to the publishers for allowing me to review this book for them!
June 6, 2018
I’ll admit, I chose this book because it has Meghan Markle on the cover. This is the book based on her Hallmark movie. Having her on the cover, especially with a release date during the same week as her royal wedding, is a huge selling point for this book.
I liked this cute romance. Cass has always had bad luck with guys, so her sister insists that she read a love guide by Dr. Susie. Cass follows Dr. Susie’s instruction and ends up with a choice between two guys. Robert is sweet, funny, and romantic. George is also romantic but he is more serious. Cass has to decide which guy is right for her.
Sometimes, when a book is written about a movie or TV show, it can sound flat and robotic. One book that I read based on a TV show read like the closed captions on the show. But this one sounded like an original story. It is told from Cass’s perspective which helped the narrative. She’s quirky and sometimes makes mistakes, but that made the story funny and entertaining.
I really liked this story. I’ll definitely have to look for the movie!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher on NetGalley.
I liked this cute romance. Cass has always had bad luck with guys, so her sister insists that she read a love guide by Dr. Susie. Cass follows Dr. Susie’s instruction and ends up with a choice between two guys. Robert is sweet, funny, and romantic. George is also romantic but he is more serious. Cass has to decide which guy is right for her.
Sometimes, when a book is written about a movie or TV show, it can sound flat and robotic. One book that I read based on a TV show read like the closed captions on the show. But this one sounded like an original story. It is told from Cass’s perspective which helped the narrative. She’s quirky and sometimes makes mistakes, but that made the story funny and entertaining.
I really liked this story. I’ll definitely have to look for the movie!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher on NetGalley.
May 23, 2018
I had not seen this Hallmark movie before reading the book but it reads as if it probably followed the movie quite well. It is a light, cute, clean read. It is a typical Hallmark plot where you know the outcome from the beginning but it doesn't make it any less fun to find out how the characters get to the final outcome. There were a few times I wanted to slap Cass for being so dense but that was all part of the charm of the story. Just because we can clearly see who Cass is supposed to end up with doesn't mean she can. The only surprise for me in this story is that it took them two years to finally get married. I expected it to happen quickly once she'd figured it out.
I liked that none of the men are awful people. Well, her boyfriend at the opening of the book is pretty awful but he isn't evil. Just self absorbed. George and Robert are both good guys. It is just that one of them is better suited to Cass than the other. Way better suited. She just has to figure that out.
I enjoyed the book and would like to see the movie.
No sex, language or violence.
I liked that none of the men are awful people. Well, her boyfriend at the opening of the book is pretty awful but he isn't evil. Just self absorbed. George and Robert are both good guys. It is just that one of them is better suited to Cass than the other. Way better suited. She just has to figure that out.
I enjoyed the book and would like to see the movie.
No sex, language or violence.
May 11, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Cass is tired of dating the same 'ol non-committal guys she's so famous for. She wants something more than just "girlfriend status" if that. Her solution...."The Dater's Handbook" a complete guide to choosing the right guy. But what if the right guy isn't necessarily the one in the book?
Now she's stuck with two very different guys vying for her attention. Robert is smart and handsome and fun to be around while George is a tough businessman who reliable, dependable, and no fun. One follows the rules of the handbook and one completely discards it. But when it comes to matters of the heart, maybe sometimes, the rules have to go out the window.
I really enjoyed this book. It was lighthearted and laugh out loud fun. I highly recommend this for all readers. And makes sure to watch the Hallmark Channel Original Movie "The Dater's Handbook."
Cass is tired of dating the same 'ol non-committal guys she's so famous for. She wants something more than just "girlfriend status" if that. Her solution...."The Dater's Handbook" a complete guide to choosing the right guy. But what if the right guy isn't necessarily the one in the book?
Now she's stuck with two very different guys vying for her attention. Robert is smart and handsome and fun to be around while George is a tough businessman who reliable, dependable, and no fun. One follows the rules of the handbook and one completely discards it. But when it comes to matters of the heart, maybe sometimes, the rules have to go out the window.
I really enjoyed this book. It was lighthearted and laugh out loud fun. I highly recommend this for all readers. And makes sure to watch the Hallmark Channel Original Movie "The Dater's Handbook."
June 27, 2018
Yes, that is a real-life duchess on the cover! But before Meghan was a duchess, she played Cassandra Barber in this perfectly adorable Hallmark movie.
Cassandra has terrible luck with men. She can't seem to pick one that's not a commitment-phobic manchild. Her sister recommends a self-help book to her which Cass treats as a dating handbook. She's got to choose between Robert, the more playful fun one, and George, the more serious guy. Who does she choose? The fun part is reading it to find out!
Cara Lockwood does a great job translating this film to novel format. I really enjoyed reading this one.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Cassandra has terrible luck with men. She can't seem to pick one that's not a commitment-phobic manchild. Her sister recommends a self-help book to her which Cass treats as a dating handbook. She's got to choose between Robert, the more playful fun one, and George, the more serious guy. Who does she choose? The fun part is reading it to find out!
Cara Lockwood does a great job translating this film to novel format. I really enjoyed reading this one.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 9, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley for giving me this book to read in exchange for an honest review. No compensation was given, offered, or taken to alter the opinion.
Dater's Handbook is another funny and charming story in the Hallmark book line. I love these Hallmark adaptations and this one definitely did not disappoint! These Hallmark books are perfect for light reading. Dater's Handbook tells the story of Cass, a girl who choses the wrong kind of men to date so she is following advice from a book in order to find love. This book was a lot of fun to read! It made me laugh out loud several times. I highly recommend this book and any of the other Hallmark books. I look forward to reading more!
Dater's Handbook is another funny and charming story in the Hallmark book line. I love these Hallmark adaptations and this one definitely did not disappoint! These Hallmark books are perfect for light reading. Dater's Handbook tells the story of Cass, a girl who choses the wrong kind of men to date so she is following advice from a book in order to find love. This book was a lot of fun to read! It made me laugh out loud several times. I highly recommend this book and any of the other Hallmark books. I look forward to reading more!
May 19, 2018
Another sweet book based on a Hallmark original movie. Cass, a commitment-phobe to avoid the pain of loss after her father's death, splits with her boyfriend of 2 years after realizing he realising he really wasn't paying ANY attention to her. This leads to her listening to her sister and following the advice of a popular self help book.
We are introduced to fun loving spontaneous Robert, and staid predictable George. The hunt for the perfect boyfriend is on!!! This book is charming and sweet with adorable characters and a lot of food!
Although there are no suprises, you know what the outcome of this book will be, the good nature of the story keeps you rooting for the characters.
I voluntarily agreed to read an advanced copy of this book.
We are introduced to fun loving spontaneous Robert, and staid predictable George. The hunt for the perfect boyfriend is on!!! This book is charming and sweet with adorable characters and a lot of food!
Although there are no suprises, you know what the outcome of this book will be, the good nature of the story keeps you rooting for the characters.
I voluntarily agreed to read an advanced copy of this book.
May 27, 2018
This is the story of Cass and her struggle to find her perfect guy. On the advice of a book, she begins dating two guys- Robert and George. She learns the perfect guy doesn’t always look perfect on the list.
This is a very sweet romance novel that at times made me giggle out loud. Beware it does have a lot of character thinking in it, but for some reason that didn’t bother me as much as it usually does. I have to admit, I wanted to head butt the sister Nadia about a million times! She is so clueless! However, I also wouldn’t mind dating Robert:) If you’re looking for a sweet romance this is a great one.
This is a very sweet romance novel that at times made me giggle out loud. Beware it does have a lot of character thinking in it, but for some reason that didn’t bother me as much as it usually does. I have to admit, I wanted to head butt the sister Nadia about a million times! She is so clueless! However, I also wouldn’t mind dating Robert:) If you’re looking for a sweet romance this is a great one.
June 30, 2018
"Dater's Handbook" is a novel by Cara Lockwood that takes a spin on starting anew. This novel starts off with a young lady, one who dates scum and doesn't even realize it. Luckily, however, she has a family who loves her that will not allow her to spend her life chasing those who don't deserve it.
Enter in the handbook.
The cliché 'don't judge a book by it's cover' takes on a whole new meaning when this young woman starts looking for love in new and different ways. When she finally finds a man, a good man, she doesn't see what is before her until it is almost too late. Can this relationship disaster in the making change her spots? Only time will tell.
Enter in the handbook.
The cliché 'don't judge a book by it's cover' takes on a whole new meaning when this young woman starts looking for love in new and different ways. When she finally finds a man, a good man, she doesn't see what is before her until it is almost too late. Can this relationship disaster in the making change her spots? Only time will tell.
July 22, 2018
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. I have to admit that I saw this movie on the Hallmark Channel. It is funny and I could see scene from the movie while I was reading it. It was crazy, lovely and down right romantic. Cass is a wonderful character just trying to find her way with some help to finding the perfect man for her. Reading about how she does this and with the opinions of her family weighing on her as well. She is trying to put the past of her dating experience behind her. If you want to know how it turns out and more about the two guys you are going to have to read it yourself. Happy reading.
May 21, 2023
#Dater's Handbook
by Cara Lockwood
#Dater's Handbook
#NetGalley
This book was based on the Hallmark movie. A very cute, fun and funny romantic comedy.
Cass decides to follow a dating handbook to find love.
She gets into a pickle being torn between two guys.
Her family has their own opinions.
Hilarity ensues with all the different dates and her trying to decide which guy, if either one, is Mr. Right.
A nice escape, sweet romance and just a nice delightful way to spend an afternoon or evening.
4 *** highly recommended if you like love and laughter.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for my honest review of the e arc.
August 10, 2018
Daters Handbook was such a quick fun read. I can't wait to watch the movie. It wasn't as predictable as I had originally thought it was going to be there towards the end. Robert was such a great character I thought! George got on my nerves a bit. I guess I like the more laid back personality like Robert than I did George's uptight nature. Cass should have listened to Duke! Dogs know best!
Cass is such a sweet character. She deserved way better than Peter! I just wanted to slap him.
*I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley to review
Cass is such a sweet character. She deserved way better than Peter! I just wanted to slap him.
*I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley to review
December 31, 2018
My review is 3.8 stars
I'm very big fan and black hole who sucks Hallmark movies in and I'm reading books since I was 7. So when I get to know that Hallmark movies are now books too, I was over the moon because I will love to cherish the same story in one of my more favourite versions and I really did.
I loved the book version more, sorry movies! But the way book is written is quite beautiful and really loved it. I loved the characters more in comparison of the movie.
Really looking forward for more Hallmark Movies to be converted to books.
I'm very big fan and black hole who sucks Hallmark movies in and I'm reading books since I was 7. So when I get to know that Hallmark movies are now books too, I was over the moon because I will love to cherish the same story in one of my more favourite versions and I really did.
I loved the book version more, sorry movies! But the way book is written is quite beautiful and really loved it. I loved the characters more in comparison of the movie.
Really looking forward for more Hallmark Movies to be converted to books.
May 16, 2018
DATER’S. HANDBOOK. by Cara Lockwood. May 15
Cass always picking wrong men to date. Her sister’s advice was a book
on dating advice. With two different suitors, and with the book and her mother and sister advice. Feeling she is on the right track to finding a perfect mate. The heart strings are forgotten. This is a fun, often hilarious book, to enjoy, the joys of dating, till you find the one. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
Cass always picking wrong men to date. Her sister’s advice was a book
on dating advice. With two different suitors, and with the book and her mother and sister advice. Feeling she is on the right track to finding a perfect mate. The heart strings are forgotten. This is a fun, often hilarious book, to enjoy, the joys of dating, till you find the one. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
July 30, 2018
This is a fun romance! After a string of bad relationships, Cass has to choose between predictable, loyal George and fun-loving, adventurous Robert. Her sister convinces her to use the Dater’s Handbook instead of her feelings. Her mom is for one guy; her sister for the other. How will she make the right choice? There’s a satisfying HEA. I received an ARC. I chose to write a review and share my opinion.
August 1, 2018
So love triangles are not usually my thing but this is adorable story. I do feel like it is a little "wordy". It seems like the author is trying a little too hard to convey every moment of the movie. What was probably shown by one quick facial expression on screen becomes multiple paragraphs of the characters inner voice and it just started to get old after a while. It is still a cute story but I am not sure a book adaptation of a movie needs to be that on point.
August 5, 2018
I really like these hallmark books I know they can be a little cheesy but that's what I enjoy about them. This one is a fun easy read and just so sweet and cute. Cass had terrible taste and luck with men and could not pick a good one if her life depended on it. Her sister Nadia decides she needs the help of The daters Handbook and that's where this book really gets funny a super read I just loved it
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