Emma keeps to herself at work, largely so she doesn’t fall into old habits. She is one year sober and functioning quite well. It’s time to push her boundaries a little, and that means engaging with coworkers and not going into a complete tailspin when her mother announces she’s moving in with her boyfriend. For someone trying to protect their sobriety, stability is everything, which is why planning the office holiday party, possibly exploring an romance with the office IT guy Ben, and letting her father back into her life are all risky…but maybe worth it.
Sobriety is difficult to maintain and this book does a beautiful job of showing that. It’s also a reminder that it doesn’t all happen at once. Putting yourself first might mean only very cautiously opening up your social circle. It might not mean you get the friends, the family, and the romance all immediately and at the same time. And there’s a real beauty in realizing how to take it slow. These characters are human. Emma is embarrassed and nervous when she thinks about the first sleepover. Ben is understanding but still won’t allow himself to be consistently pushed away. Understanding and respecting doesn’t always mean a happily ever after. The book is open-ended and hopeful, just like Emma now is.
4.5 out of 5 stars.
Pair with: Black iced tea with 4 lemon wedges
Peaches to Apples 