finished reading

This collection of a novella and eight short stories is a satisfying summer read.  It's like a bowl of fresh strawberries with cream.  The women in the stories are relatable and slightly quirky, yet real.  And the storytelling is a treat, turning everyday circumstances like motherhood, financial stress, job dissatisfaction, and a ripped coat lining into compelling and complex moments.

From the publisher:

Nell is 26 and has never been to Paris. She's never even been on a romantic weekend away - to anywhere - before. Traveling abroad isn't really her thing. But when Nell's boyfriend fails to show up for their mini-vacation, she has the opportunity to prove everyone - including herself - wrong. Alone in Paris, Nell finds a version of herself she never knew existed: independent and intrepid. Could this turn out to be the most adventurous weekend of her life?

The other stories are:

Between the Tweets

Love in the Afternoon

A Bird in the Hand

Crocodile Shoes

Holdups

Last Year’s Coat

Thirteen Days with John C.

The Christmas List