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28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humourous Memoir
Poppy Mortimer is hungry for love. Will she find The One, or lose her appetite for men, forever?
Smart, attractive, and fuelled by wide-eyed optimism, Poppy Mortimer leaves rainy England to start a new life-and find the perfect man-in exotic Australia. Surely somewhere out there, a Chris Hemsworth impersonator is just waiting to whisk her off her feet and show her the real charms of 'Down Under'.
But as Poppy launches into 28 dates, ranging from the outright hysterical to borderline traumatic, it becomes clear she's going to have to kiss a few frogs-assuming she doesn't croak first. From the seven-foot giant with a disturbing workout practice, to the exclusive party that turns out to be a lot more than just cocktails and canapes, Poppy starts to wonder if she should sue Disney for giving her false hope.
With gusto, humour, and a lot of heart, Poppy digs deep into her past as a child of divorce, and her ongoing journey as a modern woman and devoted romantic. Through laughter, tears, and characters that are truly stranger than fiction, Poppy won't stop until she finds true love-or something even greater.
Fans of Bridget Jones's Diary and Sex and the City (or any person who wants to feel better about their own dating life) will love this book.
Smart, attractive, and fuelled by wide-eyed optimism, Poppy Mortimer leaves rainy England to start a new life-and find the perfect man-in exotic Australia. Surely somewhere out there, a Chris Hemsworth impersonator is just waiting to whisk her off her feet and show her the real charms of 'Down Under'.
But as Poppy launches into 28 dates, ranging from the outright hysterical to borderline traumatic, it becomes clear she's going to have to kiss a few frogs-assuming she doesn't croak first. From the seven-foot giant with a disturbing workout practice, to the exclusive party that turns out to be a lot more than just cocktails and canapes, Poppy starts to wonder if she should sue Disney for giving her false hope.
With gusto, humour, and a lot of heart, Poppy digs deep into her past as a child of divorce, and her ongoing journey as a modern woman and devoted romantic. Through laughter, tears, and characters that are truly stranger than fiction, Poppy won't stop until she finds true love-or something even greater.
Fans of Bridget Jones's Diary and Sex and the City (or any person who wants to feel better about their own dating life) will love this book.
322 pages, Paperback
Published May 10, 2022
6 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
December 14, 2022
Author Poppy Mortimer has been looking for love, and to date, it has been in all the wrong places. She has had dreadful dates in Britain, Australia, L.A., and back to Australia where she lives and works in her beloved Melbourne. She has tried conventional means, like meeting in person, and unconventional means, like speed dating, throwing dating apps into the mix for good measure. So far over the chronicled twenty-year span, she has been unsuccessful. Instead of being sad or depressed over her experiences, she has turned them into a compilation of tales that are humorous and educational, and that illustrate red-flags and warnings. The always hopeful romantic in Poppy won’t stop looking until she finds her perfect match—but in the meantime, she has created a successful, fulfilled, replete life for herself.
Poppy Mortimer can easily take this “mostly true memoir” out on the road and perform it to sell-out crowds on any comedy stage. I would absolutely pay to see her stand-up routine! Her writing is fun, engaging, emotional, and hilarious. It’s easy to look back on less-than-ideal experiences and feel angry, bitter, or remorseful, but Mortimer does none of those things. Her experiences are astutely summarized and can definitely be taught as life lessons. She takes the reader on a romp of a ride, and proves that in every situation that is less than ideal, there is a positive to take away. Through the years she has found her voice and learned what she will and won’t tolerate, and what qualities are essential in a partner. She develops an absolute intolerance for verbal abuse, for example, and rules out those men who lack good hygiene, intelligence, self-control, and the like. She shines in her own light, values her worth, learns from negative experiences, and serves as a role model for every single woman who is searching for a partner to do the same.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, and Poppy Mortimer for the ability to read and review this ARC.
Poppy Mortimer can easily take this “mostly true memoir” out on the road and perform it to sell-out crowds on any comedy stage. I would absolutely pay to see her stand-up routine! Her writing is fun, engaging, emotional, and hilarious. It’s easy to look back on less-than-ideal experiences and feel angry, bitter, or remorseful, but Mortimer does none of those things. Her experiences are astutely summarized and can definitely be taught as life lessons. She takes the reader on a romp of a ride, and proves that in every situation that is less than ideal, there is a positive to take away. Through the years she has found her voice and learned what she will and won’t tolerate, and what qualities are essential in a partner. She develops an absolute intolerance for verbal abuse, for example, and rules out those men who lack good hygiene, intelligence, self-control, and the like. She shines in her own light, values her worth, learns from negative experiences, and serves as a role model for every single woman who is searching for a partner to do the same.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, and Poppy Mortimer for the ability to read and review this ARC.
June 7, 2022
This book deserves all the stars!
This book is hilarious, witty and very entertaining. The writing is brilliant and I found myself laughing out loud so many times as I followed Poppy Mortimer’s hysterical journey. I really was able to reflect on every imbecile I’ve dated and it’s nice to know I’m not alone. It should be made into a movie. I absolutely recommend this book.
This book is hilarious, witty and very entertaining. The writing is brilliant and I found myself laughing out loud so many times as I followed Poppy Mortimer’s hysterical journey. I really was able to reflect on every imbecile I’ve dated and it’s nice to know I’m not alone. It should be made into a movie. I absolutely recommend this book.
September 21, 2022
This was my kind of book. I love books about dating, and social media. At times I wanted to throw the book out of the window in disgust as the men she dated were disgusting and down right creepy! Some situations she found herself in made me think why you doing that? Walk away. It was very interesting and loved the titles of the chapters been about the guy. I hope poppy writes more as I love her writing.
Thanks goes to net galley and the publishers for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review and for the author for writing it.
Thanks goes to net galley and the publishers for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review and for the author for writing it.
June 6, 2022
I cannot believe the other reviews left here that clearly misinterpreted what they were reading or just have no sense of humour.
I found this book hilarious, empowering and a very true account of what dating can be like in the modern era.
Feminism doesn't mean you have to be the boss, there is nothing wrong with wanting a guy that won't throw you under the bus at the first chance he gets! I think the author really expressed this well. Wanting masculine qualities in a man as well as to be respected as a woman is what feminism is all about.
I laughed so hard in this book I think I peed my pants a few times as who doesn't love a great dating story gone wrong. I hope there is a sequel 🤞🤞🤞
I found this book hilarious, empowering and a very true account of what dating can be like in the modern era.
Feminism doesn't mean you have to be the boss, there is nothing wrong with wanting a guy that won't throw you under the bus at the first chance he gets! I think the author really expressed this well. Wanting masculine qualities in a man as well as to be respected as a woman is what feminism is all about.
I laughed so hard in this book I think I peed my pants a few times as who doesn't love a great dating story gone wrong. I hope there is a sequel 🤞🤞🤞
July 1, 2022
28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humourous Memoir by Poppy Mortimer is a funny account of the author's troubled yet exciting and often amusing love life. In this book, the author pens down her disastrous dates, the things she learned from each of them, and how she went on to the next, thinking she won't be making the same mistakes but ending up somehow on another disastrous first date.
I liked how the author used her sense of humour to keep the tone of the book light and made it funny and thus more relatable as well as easily palatable for the readers. The author's writing style is good and the writing had a good flow which made this book a really easy and fast read.
I'd recommend this book to all readers of humorous non-fiction as I'm sure this book has a lot to offer to all its readers whether they are men or women.
You can also read this review on www.thereadingbud.com
I liked how the author used her sense of humour to keep the tone of the book light and made it funny and thus more relatable as well as easily palatable for the readers. The author's writing style is good and the writing had a good flow which made this book a really easy and fast read.
I'd recommend this book to all readers of humorous non-fiction as I'm sure this book has a lot to offer to all its readers whether they are men or women.
You can also read this review on www.thereadingbud.com
June 14, 2022
Funny!! This book caught my eye immediately as the book title literally describes the content of the book entirely! Poppy goes through 28 disastrous dates, each very unique and funny. Learning what to do for the next date as well as what not to do. Very well written. The only thing that had me caught in some spots was the terms she uses as she’s from “Across the pond”. Would recommend to anyone whether married, dating or single themselves.
June 13, 2022
Brilliant book! Follow the author along on 28 dates, each of which is more hilarious than the last! Poppy tells an engaging tale of dating in the modern world. This book is fantastic for any independent woman who is on the search for her other half and for those who are not, is an excellent opportunity to live vicariously in the world of Poppy. Highly recommended.
July 31, 2022
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC!
I usually don’t rate memoirs, but this compilation of failed dates was so funny and chaotic. I can only dream of going on dates that hectic but maybe with different dudes.
Mortimer’s narrative was extremely relatable and hilarious. The writing was smooth and concise. I loved how she divided the chapters into three parts and how she named each chapter after the date in matching formats. It’s uncanny that she managed to date so many red flags but I too would make a comedic work with it and profit. What is a failed date if not a funny story afterwards?
I usually don’t rate memoirs, but this compilation of failed dates was so funny and chaotic. I can only dream of going on dates that hectic but maybe with different dudes.
Mortimer’s narrative was extremely relatable and hilarious. The writing was smooth and concise. I loved how she divided the chapters into three parts and how she named each chapter after the date in matching formats. It’s uncanny that she managed to date so many red flags but I too would make a comedic work with it and profit. What is a failed date if not a funny story afterwards?
June 6, 2022
Any book that manages to make me laugh is worthy of 5 stars! I normally think that comedy is very personal and subjective, but this account of Poppy Mortimer’s weird and not so wonderful dates was very amusing and had me chuckling. The author seems to have attracted a larger than normal number of weirdos into her life – did she advertise for them lol? Would recommend this book for a good laugh and a foray into the disastrous dates of Poppy Mortimer!
February 5, 2023
The horror of online dating, or dating in general in the modern age.
The writing is sharp, witty, and at times truly terrifying! The episodic nature of the 28 dates was great and made it the perfect book to read in short intervals.
And while I bet anyone who has dated in the last few years can identify with some of the elements mentioned in the book, I sincerely hope that everyone's real-life experience ended in a better way, or at least with a equally bizarre anecdote to tell.
Thank you Netgalley, and the author Poppy Mortimer for the opportunity to read this book as an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The writing is sharp, witty, and at times truly terrifying! The episodic nature of the 28 dates was great and made it the perfect book to read in short intervals.
And while I bet anyone who has dated in the last few years can identify with some of the elements mentioned in the book, I sincerely hope that everyone's real-life experience ended in a better way, or at least with a equally bizarre anecdote to tell.
Thank you Netgalley, and the author Poppy Mortimer for the opportunity to read this book as an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 24, 2024
In her book '28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humourous Memoir', Poppy Mortimer recounts some of her most hilarious adventures in the dating scene. From her twenties to her present forties, the writer has come a long way in the dating game, acquiring a wealth of related wisdom, which she graciously shares with her readers on these pages. As it's mentioned in the title that these accounts are mostly true, we can conclude that a lot of exaggerations from the actual truth are inserted to enhance the comedic effect. But I don't find it surprising to encounter such characters in such a book.
The writer has succeeded in recounting the episodes with wit and in camouflaging some of the creepiness with humour. It is an easy read that may guide young women who are in the dating game and young men to realise the ways in which they destroy their chances with the above-mentioned young women.
The writer has succeeded in recounting the episodes with wit and in camouflaging some of the creepiness with humour. It is an easy read that may guide young women who are in the dating game and young men to realise the ways in which they destroy their chances with the above-mentioned young women.
June 9, 2022
5.0 out of 5 starsVerified Purchase
Great read
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 May 2022
Well written with a good dollop of humour and plenty of laugh out loud moments. Definitely an amusing read for all the ladies out there but maybe the men should pick it up too and get some tips on what not to do on a first date!
Great read
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 May 2022
Well written with a good dollop of humour and plenty of laugh out loud moments. Definitely an amusing read for all the ladies out there but maybe the men should pick it up too and get some tips on what not to do on a first date!
June 28, 2022
A super fun and easy read! 28 truly disastrous dates, I found my self laughing, cringing and unfortunately relating to a few dates!
I appreciated the trigger warnings on difficult chapters, and I loved reading the growth of Poppy throughout her dates and how she figured out exactly what she wanted. Recommend for an easy, light read if you’re looking for something fun and entertaining.
I appreciated the trigger warnings on difficult chapters, and I loved reading the growth of Poppy throughout her dates and how she figured out exactly what she wanted. Recommend for an easy, light read if you’re looking for something fun and entertaining.
June 10, 2022
I always enjoy comedic memoirs and this book hooked me from the start with its humor and candor. I found the journey very relatable, with a lot of important messages about womanhood and the search for romantic love. The story was peppered with twists, turns, and surprises. Highly recommend!
June 7, 2022
This book is flat out hilarious. My partner came in from another room and asked what was making me laugh so loudly. The dates are so bizarre and unlike anything I've ever heard of and the way she's written them is so engaging and funny, there was never a dull moment. If you need some comic relief and love reading about bad dates this book would be right up your alley. Loved it!
June 16, 2022
Check out my review of this funny book - https://this-life.blog/2022/06/12/28-...
July 21, 2023
"28 Disastrous Dates: A (Mostly True) Humourous Memoir" by Poppy Mortimer, With a delightful blend of humor and heart, 28 Disastrous Dates emerges as a captivating memoir that chronicles the quest for love. Poppy Mortimer, the gifted author, artfully recounts her 28 most calamitous dating escapades, skillfully navigating between the awkward and the outright cringeworthy.
Mortimer's writing brims with wit and charm, effortlessly drawing readers into her world of misadventures. Her ability to find humor even in the most challenging circumstances is a testament to her resilient spirit. Readers will undoubtedly find her experiences relatable, empathizing with the rollercoaster of emotions that accompany the often unpredictable world of dating.
Organized into 28 captivating chapters, each date unfolds like a unique story. Mortimer's encounters range from mildly irritating to utterly outrageous, leaving readers alternately amused and astonished. We encounter characters like the towering gentleman who struggled to fit through doorways, the self-absorbed date monopolizing the conversation, and the ill-fated rendezvous with a thoroughly inebriated suitor.
Throughout her engaging narrative, Mortimer maintains a lighthearted outlook on her dating misadventures. Her ability to laugh at herself and the men she encounters not only serves as a source of entertainment but also creates a profound sense of camaraderie with her audience.
Beyond it's humor, 28 Disastrous Dates embodies a resolute sense of optimism. Despite the countless setbacks and awkward encounters, Mortimer's indomitable spirit shines through. An embodiment of strength and independence, she unapologetically seeks the love she desires and remains undeterred in her pursuit.
Highly recommended for those seeking a heartwarming and amusing exploration of love's winding path, 28 Disastrous Dates will resonate with readers on many levels. Laughter and tears blend seamlessly throughout this heartfelt narrative, reminding us that love is a journey filled with both laughter and tears.
Rating the book 4 out of 5 stars , I thoroughly enjoyed Mortimer's adept storytelling and found her writing style to be both engaging and relatable. As a reader, I appreciated the underlying message of hope that shines brightly amidst the chaotic dating landscape.
The motives I didn't give 5 stars are:
While the majority of the book is a joy to read, there were moments when some of the dates seemed slightly exaggerated, edging towards the realm of implausibility. Nevertheless, these minor instances did little to dampen my overall enjoyment.
In conclusion, "28 Disastrous Dates" is a delightful gem that seamlessly intertwines humor, warmth, and hope. A book that not only entertains but also inspires, it provides a much-needed escape for those seeking a lighthearted respite from everyday life. Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend this charming memoir to anyone in search of laughter and a heartwarming reminder that love's journey is both unpredictable and beautiful.
Mortimer's writing brims with wit and charm, effortlessly drawing readers into her world of misadventures. Her ability to find humor even in the most challenging circumstances is a testament to her resilient spirit. Readers will undoubtedly find her experiences relatable, empathizing with the rollercoaster of emotions that accompany the often unpredictable world of dating.
Organized into 28 captivating chapters, each date unfolds like a unique story. Mortimer's encounters range from mildly irritating to utterly outrageous, leaving readers alternately amused and astonished. We encounter characters like the towering gentleman who struggled to fit through doorways, the self-absorbed date monopolizing the conversation, and the ill-fated rendezvous with a thoroughly inebriated suitor.
Throughout her engaging narrative, Mortimer maintains a lighthearted outlook on her dating misadventures. Her ability to laugh at herself and the men she encounters not only serves as a source of entertainment but also creates a profound sense of camaraderie with her audience.
Beyond it's humor, 28 Disastrous Dates embodies a resolute sense of optimism. Despite the countless setbacks and awkward encounters, Mortimer's indomitable spirit shines through. An embodiment of strength and independence, she unapologetically seeks the love she desires and remains undeterred in her pursuit.
Highly recommended for those seeking a heartwarming and amusing exploration of love's winding path, 28 Disastrous Dates will resonate with readers on many levels. Laughter and tears blend seamlessly throughout this heartfelt narrative, reminding us that love is a journey filled with both laughter and tears.
Rating the book 4 out of 5 stars , I thoroughly enjoyed Mortimer's adept storytelling and found her writing style to be both engaging and relatable. As a reader, I appreciated the underlying message of hope that shines brightly amidst the chaotic dating landscape.
The motives I didn't give 5 stars are:
While the majority of the book is a joy to read, there were moments when some of the dates seemed slightly exaggerated, edging towards the realm of implausibility. Nevertheless, these minor instances did little to dampen my overall enjoyment.
In conclusion, "28 Disastrous Dates" is a delightful gem that seamlessly intertwines humor, warmth, and hope. A book that not only entertains but also inspires, it provides a much-needed escape for those seeking a lighthearted respite from everyday life. Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend this charming memoir to anyone in search of laughter and a heartwarming reminder that love's journey is both unpredictable and beautiful.
June 29, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Received the ARC copy of the book via Booksirens and am here to write an honest review of it.
The book is well written without any grammatical or spelling errors. The character is an English Lady looking for her mr. Perfect throughout the book's 28 chapters.
As it is a personal memoir of the writer with not just a pinch but a great bhnch of humour in it. I am into reading non fiction books for this spice of humour and I have got a good deal of it in the book. First thing first is that the book contains adult content so if you are not into reading such things then do not read it. Otherwise if you don't mind reading adult books then go ahead this one is good.
I would like to highlight few things in the book seem odd. First, the lady shares her vivid details of the bad dates throughout the book and with the takeaways from them as well. But it seems quite unauthentic that she always come across with the bad side of the dating person. I do realize the book is entitled to discuss the worse scenarios of the dating life but still it seems at many points as if the lady feels herself being too perfect for every man. No offence though to think highly of one's self but it seems kind of being arrogant to always come up with the flaw in the person at the end of each date.
The second thing I would like to highlight is 28 chapters seem too lengthy for the reader when the end of each chapter remains the same. As she always met a disaster one after the other in her dating life. I would have enjoyed it more had it been cropped to 12-16 disastrous dates. Beacuse, at many times the characters seem identical with same flaws and scenarios. So it would have been more enjoyable for the reader if the writer has kept it a bit shorter in chapters distribution.
My last point to be highlighted is the arrangement order or maybe it was due to the chronological orders of the events she has started the book with the most odd one. I can't declare the whole date but in my opinion it would have been better if she has adjusted her very first disastrous date in the middle of the book somewhere. As sometimes the reader is not expecting to read an adult content in the very first few pages of the book. So, technically I believe the reader requires his/her time to delve deeper into the writer's mind at times and it's more comfortable to read an adult content after getting to know the writer.
Overall I have rated it with 3 stars just because of the above mentioned points. Otherwise if you are into reading good humour with a touch of personal element then you should definitely read this one. The book contains the real hazard ladies face in the dating world these days. I am sure many can relate to the writer's experiences as well. So all those memoirs reading people are recommended to get it for a good laugh out loud.
Received the ARC copy of the book via Booksirens and am here to write an honest review of it.
The book is well written without any grammatical or spelling errors. The character is an English Lady looking for her mr. Perfect throughout the book's 28 chapters.
As it is a personal memoir of the writer with not just a pinch but a great bhnch of humour in it. I am into reading non fiction books for this spice of humour and I have got a good deal of it in the book. First thing first is that the book contains adult content so if you are not into reading such things then do not read it. Otherwise if you don't mind reading adult books then go ahead this one is good.
I would like to highlight few things in the book seem odd. First, the lady shares her vivid details of the bad dates throughout the book and with the takeaways from them as well. But it seems quite unauthentic that she always come across with the bad side of the dating person. I do realize the book is entitled to discuss the worse scenarios of the dating life but still it seems at many points as if the lady feels herself being too perfect for every man. No offence though to think highly of one's self but it seems kind of being arrogant to always come up with the flaw in the person at the end of each date.
The second thing I would like to highlight is 28 chapters seem too lengthy for the reader when the end of each chapter remains the same. As she always met a disaster one after the other in her dating life. I would have enjoyed it more had it been cropped to 12-16 disastrous dates. Beacuse, at many times the characters seem identical with same flaws and scenarios. So it would have been more enjoyable for the reader if the writer has kept it a bit shorter in chapters distribution.
My last point to be highlighted is the arrangement order or maybe it was due to the chronological orders of the events she has started the book with the most odd one. I can't declare the whole date but in my opinion it would have been better if she has adjusted her very first disastrous date in the middle of the book somewhere. As sometimes the reader is not expecting to read an adult content in the very first few pages of the book. So, technically I believe the reader requires his/her time to delve deeper into the writer's mind at times and it's more comfortable to read an adult content after getting to know the writer.
Overall I have rated it with 3 stars just because of the above mentioned points. Otherwise if you are into reading good humour with a touch of personal element then you should definitely read this one. The book contains the real hazard ladies face in the dating world these days. I am sure many can relate to the writer's experiences as well. So all those memoirs reading people are recommended to get it for a good laugh out loud.
June 10, 2022
With an experience that came from 20 years of being in the dating scene, Poppy Mortimer provides details on 28 of her worst dates. What lessons and insight are stored within these pages? Read this book to find out.
There was no trace of boredom on my reading journey. The author's delivery style made it quite engaging. It felt like I was talking to an old friend I hadn't seen in ages, and she was sharing how her dating life had been over lunch. It was much more intriguing because they were "mostly true," though there might have been some embellishments and some loss in accurate details over time.
Every date narration was a healthy dose of humor. The number of times I chuckled loudly was proof of her sense of humor, and the events tend to be funny. The deliberate censoring and switching of profanities to be left to my imagination made it exciting.
A significant lesson is about instincts. We all have gut instincts, and most choose to ignore them against their better judgment. The author portrays the experiences that choice can bring. I have always believed your instincts always know what's best for you because your subconscious mind knows something your conscious doesn't know yet. Ignore them at your peril.
I also admired how every date shaped and changed her standards. Although there were some fallbacks to her choices, which I deemed natural, she didn't stagnate her life in her pursuit of love. Her growth and success could be seen as she grew older and became a better woman. She was an ardent believer in true love. Her happiness was not also based on her relationship status. Any potential lover coming in was just there to add to the author's happiness and not be the source.
The author highlighted the dangers and trauma hiding behind online dating sites. I had tried a few myself and realized the traditional way of meeting people would always be better. Her experience with men from dating sites was the most humourous. I laughed out loud when Date 23 said, "I didn't lie. I created a profile of my future self, and one day I will become that man." The number of misleading profiles was just numerous.
There was no trace of boredom on my reading journey. The author's delivery style made it quite engaging. It felt like I was talking to an old friend I hadn't seen in ages, and she was sharing how her dating life had been over lunch. It was much more intriguing because they were "mostly true," though there might have been some embellishments and some loss in accurate details over time.
Every date narration was a healthy dose of humor. The number of times I chuckled loudly was proof of her sense of humor, and the events tend to be funny. The deliberate censoring and switching of profanities to be left to my imagination made it exciting.
A significant lesson is about instincts. We all have gut instincts, and most choose to ignore them against their better judgment. The author portrays the experiences that choice can bring. I have always believed your instincts always know what's best for you because your subconscious mind knows something your conscious doesn't know yet. Ignore them at your peril.
I also admired how every date shaped and changed her standards. Although there were some fallbacks to her choices, which I deemed natural, she didn't stagnate her life in her pursuit of love. Her growth and success could be seen as she grew older and became a better woman. She was an ardent believer in true love. Her happiness was not also based on her relationship status. Any potential lover coming in was just there to add to the author's happiness and not be the source.
The author highlighted the dangers and trauma hiding behind online dating sites. I had tried a few myself and realized the traditional way of meeting people would always be better. Her experience with men from dating sites was the most humourous. I laughed out loud when Date 23 said, "I didn't lie. I created a profile of my future self, and one day I will become that man." The number of misleading profiles was just numerous.
November 19, 2022
First, I want to thank Poppy Mortimer and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
O.M.G. WOW!! This is an eye opening book for anyone in or entering the dating pool! Poppy Mortimer needs to be commended for opening up and sharing 28 of her hellish date disasters confirming that dating sucks!! For someone who has been out of the dating pool for a while this was a reminder to stay single! Oh this was a totally fun read. One minute had me shaking my head in disbelief and the next minute rolling on the floor and laughing.
The cover of the book is too cute and so funny! The date dressed as a dog, omg I was laughing so hard!! Great job to the graphic designers on this one.
Poppy keeps a record of her 28 incredibly disastrous dates spanning two decades and three different continents. Each entry starts with her age, where they met, who asked who out, the dating experience, and then the lesson she learned from her experience.
As the motto says, whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger! This is definitely the case for Poppy. She learned so much about herself in the process about what she wants and doesn’t want in her future.
What I liked is at the end of the book she gives a summary of all the qualities in a man to stay away from and what characteristics to look for.
This book deserves more than 5 stars and should be put on your must read list.
O.M.G. WOW!! This is an eye opening book for anyone in or entering the dating pool! Poppy Mortimer needs to be commended for opening up and sharing 28 of her hellish date disasters confirming that dating sucks!! For someone who has been out of the dating pool for a while this was a reminder to stay single! Oh this was a totally fun read. One minute had me shaking my head in disbelief and the next minute rolling on the floor and laughing.
The cover of the book is too cute and so funny! The date dressed as a dog, omg I was laughing so hard!! Great job to the graphic designers on this one.
Poppy keeps a record of her 28 incredibly disastrous dates spanning two decades and three different continents. Each entry starts with her age, where they met, who asked who out, the dating experience, and then the lesson she learned from her experience.
As the motto says, whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger! This is definitely the case for Poppy. She learned so much about herself in the process about what she wants and doesn’t want in her future.
What I liked is at the end of the book she gives a summary of all the qualities in a man to stay away from and what characteristics to look for.
This book deserves more than 5 stars and should be put on your must read list.
June 2, 2022
This book is not for someone like me. I'm a married, stay at home mom who loves cleaning, cooking and taking care of her husband.
I'm glad I am not in the modern dating scene and thankful I've already found my prince charming.
The book contains 28 dates the main character went on that ended terribly, hence the title. Each chapter is labeled with what she called the date, with titles like "Mr. Fodder, Mr. Camel Lover and Mr. Strong Man. If you're single, a feminist and consider yourself woke, then this is probably the book for you. I received this book free from Booksirens for an honest review.
I'm glad I am not in the modern dating scene and thankful I've already found my prince charming.
The book contains 28 dates the main character went on that ended terribly, hence the title. Each chapter is labeled with what she called the date, with titles like "Mr. Fodder, Mr. Camel Lover and Mr. Strong Man. If you're single, a feminist and consider yourself woke, then this is probably the book for you. I received this book free from Booksirens for an honest review.
June 22, 2022
Oh, this was such a fun read. The author is British, but has dated in the UK, Australia and America, and the result is just hilarious. She sounds a really lovely person, and doesn't take herself too seriously. Even if the stories are exaggerated a little (and I suspect sadly that some are not!) they make for a great tale, which she tells really well.
Thoroughly enjoyable, laugh out loud, great fun, even for oldies like me that haven't dated in decades!
Thank you to NetGalley and Poppy Mortimer for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thoroughly enjoyable, laugh out loud, great fun, even for oldies like me that haven't dated in decades!
Thank you to NetGalley and Poppy Mortimer for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2022
This is the funniest, craziest and most insightful book I've ever read! My emotions would vary between hysterical laughing, to shock horror to what the hell! Every few minutes. It was a rollercoaster ride and highly entertaining. I saw my own behaviours a lot throughout the dates and could relate to the author's dating experiences, albeit mine not being half as crazy as some of hers. I connected with the message around women being conditioned by the patriarchy to behave in a certain way to appease men and also how it limits our ability to fully reach our potential financially, which influences the men we pick. This book feels like a best friend telling you about their hilarious dating stories, but also inspires you to stand in your power as a strong, independent woman. This book would be hilarious as a Netflix series. If you want to laugh your head off, as well as be inspired, this one's for you.
June 27, 2022
This is a very, very funny book about disastrous dates over a period of 20 years. Each story is short and concise and hilarious. Some of the dates are beyond bad taste. It is remarkable how boorish some of these men are, in addition to being clueless. And Ms. Mortimer does not go easy on herself. The concluding chapter has good tips on dating, which ties back to the previous chapters. The book is a winner, and thoroughly enjoyable. I am 70, married to my beautiful wife, we've been together for decades, so we are blessed. You'll enjoy this book, even if you are a happy. long time married guy who still remembers his first date with his wife.
June 22, 2022
A solid lighthearted read that made my worst dates feel like walks in the park compared to the author's stories! I appreciated her humor but not so much her sweeping generalizations (ex/ Americans talk too much). This would be a great airplane or beach read. I wish I could find more info about the author because she sounds super interesting, alas I'm struggling to find anything! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
July 24, 2022
These dates had me literally laughing out loud. Poppy's writing style is so relatable and made me feel like I was chatting with a friend. I really enjoyed this read and I couldn't put it down. I really liked the "What I learned" section of each date. Very descriptive and I felt like I was on the date with her! Awesome read and will definitely recommend!!
June 20, 2022
Good book well written, great feel good book for people don't want violence etc and want take themselves out of the current world and indulge in make believe
July 19, 2022
Hilarious read! I couldn't stop laughing! As a guy I know how crazy we can sometimes be playing the dating game. These guys though were clearly a cut below the rest! Some of them should really consider the well being of others and retire from the dating scene immediately! And a couple of the craziest ones should probably be put in a straight jacket, and thrown off a cliff! (Joking)
Good luck in your search, Poppy, I hope Mr Right is just around the corner!
Good luck in your search, Poppy, I hope Mr Right is just around the corner!
July 18, 2022
Absolutely hilarious account of one woman's 28 dates.
I must say Poppy is courageous to persist with the whole dating game in the face of some to the crazy antics of these blokes. What is really admirable is that Poppy uses her experiences to reflect and understand herself at a deeper level. So despite the humorous stories, this book goes deeper than the surface to show that what we resist we will attract and that somehow we need to come to a point of neutrality in order to release.
I must say Poppy is courageous to persist with the whole dating game in the face of some to the crazy antics of these blokes. What is really admirable is that Poppy uses her experiences to reflect and understand herself at a deeper level. So despite the humorous stories, this book goes deeper than the surface to show that what we resist we will attract and that somehow we need to come to a point of neutrality in order to release.
May 26, 2024
“This book hit my funny bone! Poppy Mortimer shares experiences from some truly disastrous dates with humor and persistence. You have to wonder if she is stretching the truth, but unfortunately maybe not."
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