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An Introvert's Guide to Life and Love
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6 days and 00:55:17
25 copies available
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Inheriting a seaside cottage comes with strings attached in this touching romance where an introverted remote worker must leave her city apartment and learn to connect with others—and find love—in real life.
Mallory Rosen takes her remote tech job seriously. She values routine with predictability and minimum contact with others. So the last thing she wants are any surprises that force her to leave her comfortable Seattle apartment. Surprises like inheriting her late grandmother’s seaside cottage in Florida…with the requirement that she keeps her newly widowed grandfather company.
With no vacation days left, Mal will have to quickly check on her grandfather, sell the cottage, and return to her structured life before her boss even knows she left. But when she gets to Gramp's new independent living community, it’s not so simple. The cottage needs expensive maintenance fixes with a much too charming property manager. Her grandfather constantly interrupts her Zoom meetings. The WiFi drops at the absolute worst times. It all feels too much like déjà vu—the kind that reminds her of when she was fired from her last remote job and was forced to live with her parents.
But right when she’s about to call it quits, she starts finding the making friends at the senior citizen yoga, getting to know Gramps as a person (rather than just a stubborn boomer), and exploring the tight-knit small town. It doesn’t help that she keeps running into her hot property manager who seems to know everyone. Just when she finally feels alive, connected to others, and like she has a chance at love, she gets the (almost) worst notice All employees must return to the office.
Mallory Rosen takes her remote tech job seriously. She values routine with predictability and minimum contact with others. So the last thing she wants are any surprises that force her to leave her comfortable Seattle apartment. Surprises like inheriting her late grandmother’s seaside cottage in Florida…with the requirement that she keeps her newly widowed grandfather company.
With no vacation days left, Mal will have to quickly check on her grandfather, sell the cottage, and return to her structured life before her boss even knows she left. But when she gets to Gramp's new independent living community, it’s not so simple. The cottage needs expensive maintenance fixes with a much too charming property manager. Her grandfather constantly interrupts her Zoom meetings. The WiFi drops at the absolute worst times. It all feels too much like déjà vu—the kind that reminds her of when she was fired from her last remote job and was forced to live with her parents.
But right when she’s about to call it quits, she starts finding the making friends at the senior citizen yoga, getting to know Gramps as a person (rather than just a stubborn boomer), and exploring the tight-knit small town. It doesn’t help that she keeps running into her hot property manager who seems to know everyone. Just when she finally feels alive, connected to others, and like she has a chance at love, she gets the (almost) worst notice All employees must return to the office.
352 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 16, 2025
25 people are currently reading
5402 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
September 4, 2025
I listened to the audiobook version and I think the narrator is responsible for most of my enjoyment of this book.
I never really connected with the characters. The love interest felt underdeveloped and the main character never inspired any real sympathy. She felt like she has absolutely no ability to act or analyse, she just react to situations, and it became annoying after some time.
I think this book would have been better if it had been shorter, or spent more time developing the second characters.
Thank you Hachette audio for this ARC.
I never really connected with the characters. The love interest felt underdeveloped and the main character never inspired any real sympathy. She felt like she has absolutely no ability to act or analyse, she just react to situations, and it became annoying after some time.
I think this book would have been better if it had been shorter, or spent more time developing the second characters.
Thank you Hachette audio for this ARC.
September 1, 2025
Mallory Rosen loves her secluded life where she can work at home and buy as many packages as her heart desires. It’s predictable and safe. It’s routine. So when her grandmother dies and leaves her Pebble Cottage as her inheritance, Mallory is beyond shocked and afraid. She can’t even take care of a plant, let alone a house. But it was her grandmother’s hope that she would look after her grandfather, so Mallory reluctantly packs her bags and leaves her apartment in Seattle for sunny and tropical Florida.
However, upending your life for a week isn’t as easy as it looks. Juggling her job, taking care of her grandpa, and dealing with the renovations of her cottage, Mallory wants to run back home and never leave again. But as time moves on and she spends more time with her grandpa and handsome, extroverted property manager, Daniel, Mallory can’t help but fall in love with the friendly people and sunny skies, and she finds herself hesitant to leave. Is it possible to have a fun and fulfilling life in a place that throws routine out the window and pushes her out of her comfort zone?
One of the things I do before I read a book is set my expectations as low as they can go. Although I read what it’s about before I request an arc, when the time comes to read it, I forget what it’s about, so I go in not knowing what is happening and making predictions about what might happen. So I was genuinely surprised that I enjoyed this book as much as I did. Perhaps it’s because of how often I related to the main character, Mallory, or the number of times I chuckled when she was with her sweet grandpa or outgoing Daniel.
Everything about this book was good. The writing was easy to read, simple, and fun. The plot was realistic, well-paced, and kept my interest at bay. The characters were relatable (too relatable at times, lol! 😂), consistent with who they were as the plot progressed, and pretty likable. I also learned some valuable lessons along the way, like letting go of expectations, being confident in who you are, and living a little means that sometimes it’s going to be uncomfortable or awkward, but that is how the best memories are made. 💖
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I definitely recommend it for fellow introverts and extroverts alike! 💜
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Loss of a loved one
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Closed-door
However, upending your life for a week isn’t as easy as it looks. Juggling her job, taking care of her grandpa, and dealing with the renovations of her cottage, Mallory wants to run back home and never leave again. But as time moves on and she spends more time with her grandpa and handsome, extroverted property manager, Daniel, Mallory can’t help but fall in love with the friendly people and sunny skies, and she finds herself hesitant to leave. Is it possible to have a fun and fulfilling life in a place that throws routine out the window and pushes her out of her comfort zone?
One of the things I do before I read a book is set my expectations as low as they can go. Although I read what it’s about before I request an arc, when the time comes to read it, I forget what it’s about, so I go in not knowing what is happening and making predictions about what might happen. So I was genuinely surprised that I enjoyed this book as much as I did. Perhaps it’s because of how often I related to the main character, Mallory, or the number of times I chuckled when she was with her sweet grandpa or outgoing Daniel.
Everything about this book was good. The writing was easy to read, simple, and fun. The plot was realistic, well-paced, and kept my interest at bay. The characters were relatable (too relatable at times, lol! 😂), consistent with who they were as the plot progressed, and pretty likable. I also learned some valuable lessons along the way, like letting go of expectations, being confident in who you are, and living a little means that sometimes it’s going to be uncomfortable or awkward, but that is how the best memories are made. 💖
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I definitely recommend it for fellow introverts and extroverts alike! 💜
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Loss of a loved one
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Closed-door
August 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this! The characters were likable and relatable, and the plot didn’t get too heavy. More outgoing people might not be able to relate as much to the story, but if you’re an introvert like myself, I would definitely give this one a chance for a quick read!
July 10, 2025
3.5 stars rounded down
An Introvert’s Guide to Life and Love is like a soft romcom for the chronically online introvert girlies. Mallory’s voice felt real, awkward, anxious, and endearing. And I loved her slow shift into actually living instead of just existing behind a screen. The gramps + senior crew were such scene-stealers, and the romance was sweet even if it took its time.
Some parts dragged (a bit too much day-to-day, slice-of-life detail for me), but overall it’s a comforting read with small-town charm, a cinnamon roll love interest, and main character growth that felt earned.
If you’re an introvert, a cozy romance lover, or someone who daydreams about quitting your job and moving to a beach town, this might be your next comfort read. Just maybe don’t expect anything super groundbreaking.
Would def read more from this author in the future, though.
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for this ARC
An Introvert’s Guide to Life and Love is like a soft romcom for the chronically online introvert girlies. Mallory’s voice felt real, awkward, anxious, and endearing. And I loved her slow shift into actually living instead of just existing behind a screen. The gramps + senior crew were such scene-stealers, and the romance was sweet even if it took its time.
Some parts dragged (a bit too much day-to-day, slice-of-life detail for me), but overall it’s a comforting read with small-town charm, a cinnamon roll love interest, and main character growth that felt earned.
If you’re an introvert, a cozy romance lover, or someone who daydreams about quitting your job and moving to a beach town, this might be your next comfort read. Just maybe don’t expect anything super groundbreaking.
Would def read more from this author in the future, though.
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for this ARC
September 5, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC! This was a cute easy read!! Mallory was written very well and was also very relatable. I liked how this book wasn’t only about a love story but also her relationship with her grandpa! Mallory and Daniel were so cute and I loved how he was basically willing to drop everything for her. I do wish there were some more slow burn moments or high tension moments between them. This book had very little spice and was great for young readers. I think it also does a good job proving that it is okay to change your mind at a job you’ve been at for a while, and that you don’t need to have life figured out. It was not super heavy, it had some moments but nothing overly powerful and it was just more relatable things. I do recommend this lighthearted fun read!!!
July 12, 2025
This was a cute cozy read! As an introvert myself, I felt Mallory’s character was a good representation of introverts; the feeling of not wanting to be the center of attention but also not wanting to be left out of life. Mallory was happy enough with her life in Seattle, working remotely, shopping online, hanging out with her one friend that talked enough for both of them, but she wasn’t living her life. After her grandmother, who lived in Florida, passes away Mallory finds out she inherited her cottage and her grandfather. Feeling the need to check on her grandfather she goes to Florida for a quick weekend trip that turns into an extended month long vacation from her life in Seattle. Mallory learns to get outside her comfort zone and live rather than just existing. She still struggles with her introverted ways which can make for some awkward encounters and internal monologues of self doubt. But in the end she learns what she wants from her life and goes for it. Thank you NetGalley and Forever publishing for this arc!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2025
Thank you to Lauren Appelbaum and Hachette Audio for giving me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
The title alone made me feel seen, and the book itself didn’t disappoint. This story is warm, funny, and occasionally painfully awkward in the best way possible. Appelbaum captures the inner dialogue of an introvert so well. The hesitations, the second-guessing, and the small joys that feel enormous when you’re stepping outside your comfort zone.
The romance here is sweet and awkward, built on moments that feel authentic rather than forced. It’s character-driven and reflective, and I often found myself laughing at situations that felt just a little too relatable. What really shines is the balance between humour and hope, leaving you with the sense that love doesn’t need grand gestures to be real. Sometimes it’s found in the small, awkward, perfect moments.
A genuinely enjoyable read that made me feel right at home.
The title alone made me feel seen, and the book itself didn’t disappoint. This story is warm, funny, and occasionally painfully awkward in the best way possible. Appelbaum captures the inner dialogue of an introvert so well. The hesitations, the second-guessing, and the small joys that feel enormous when you’re stepping outside your comfort zone.
The romance here is sweet and awkward, built on moments that feel authentic rather than forced. It’s character-driven and reflective, and I often found myself laughing at situations that felt just a little too relatable. What really shines is the balance between humour and hope, leaving you with the sense that love doesn’t need grand gestures to be real. Sometimes it’s found in the small, awkward, perfect moments.
A genuinely enjoyable read that made me feel right at home.
August 23, 2025
This was an easy-going, no-spice/super light spice romance book that was a breathe of warm (Florida humid?), fresh air.
As a pro-WFHer (and Seattlite - is this play about me??) I definitely saw myself in this story. Overall this was just fun - no stress, no problems (which is my one irk: glazing over the political differences and it just… not being relevant is unrealistic).
Thank you NetGalley for this arc!
As a pro-WFHer (and Seattlite - is this play about me??) I definitely saw myself in this story. Overall this was just fun - no stress, no problems (which is my one irk: glazing over the political differences and it just… not being relevant is unrealistic).
Thank you NetGalley for this arc!
August 27, 2025
4-4.5 stars. This book was delightful. I have such a soft spot for books with grandparent characters, and reading one where part of the entire premise is the main character getting to know their grandparent better, spend more time with them, and bond with them was something my heart needed. Of course there also being a romance with a property manager wrapped up in a home renovation project didn’t hurt either.
Mallory took her remote work from Seattle to Florida after being left a cottage from her grandmother with the caveat that she also look after her grandfather in addition to the home. I loved seeing her relationship with her grandfather grow. Not to get morose, but I know all too well how easy it is to take having time with a grandparent in your adult life for granted. Mallory getting to forge a deeper closeness with her grandfather as an adult was something so charming and lovely to me.
Mallory was also an introvert to her core, to which I could relate, and she was even more settled into that role as a full-time remote worker. She had to acclimate herself to opening up to new people again and making new friends. She also had to navigate developing feelings for a man who would be living on the opposite side of the country when she returned to Seattle. Daniel was pretty worth it though. I really enjoyed their dynamic and the push/pull tension of the “should we/we shouldn’t, we want to but we can’t” battle of their attraction to each other. The way their feelings and relationship developed felt really genuine.
I listened to the audiobook alongside the ebook. Renata Friedman was the narrator, and I enjoyed her performance. She had a good delivery and rhythm to her narration. She also did a good job of creating different tones and accents for the voices to really define each character in the story.
Thank you to Forever for the eARC and Hachette Audio for the ALC, both via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Mallory took her remote work from Seattle to Florida after being left a cottage from her grandmother with the caveat that she also look after her grandfather in addition to the home. I loved seeing her relationship with her grandfather grow. Not to get morose, but I know all too well how easy it is to take having time with a grandparent in your adult life for granted. Mallory getting to forge a deeper closeness with her grandfather as an adult was something so charming and lovely to me.
Mallory was also an introvert to her core, to which I could relate, and she was even more settled into that role as a full-time remote worker. She had to acclimate herself to opening up to new people again and making new friends. She also had to navigate developing feelings for a man who would be living on the opposite side of the country when she returned to Seattle. Daniel was pretty worth it though. I really enjoyed their dynamic and the push/pull tension of the “should we/we shouldn’t, we want to but we can’t” battle of their attraction to each other. The way their feelings and relationship developed felt really genuine.
I listened to the audiobook alongside the ebook. Renata Friedman was the narrator, and I enjoyed her performance. She had a good delivery and rhythm to her narration. She also did a good job of creating different tones and accents for the voices to really define each character in the story.
Thank you to Forever for the eARC and Hachette Audio for the ALC, both via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2025
I loved this book!
Mallory inherited a cottage after a death in the family. She is juggling the cottage renovations, taking care of her grieving grandfather all while working full time.
The moment Mallory met Daniel (her property manager), I just knew it was going to be a good book. The kind of book where you rewind when someone says something cute because you need to hear it again!
Apart from the romantic relationships, I also found the family/friend relationships to be very important to the story. Mallory needed to show her family that she is capable of more than they give her credit for, and no matter where she ends up, she will be okay.
I have read 47 books so far this year and not to be dramatic, but I think this one makes my top 5. That's how much I love the book! I listened to it as an audiobook, and the narration was wonderful, I have no complaints. I may just have to buy a trophy of it for my shelf!
Thank you to Lauren Appelbaum, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
Mallory inherited a cottage after a death in the family. She is juggling the cottage renovations, taking care of her grieving grandfather all while working full time.
The moment Mallory met Daniel (her property manager), I just knew it was going to be a good book. The kind of book where you rewind when someone says something cute because you need to hear it again!
Apart from the romantic relationships, I also found the family/friend relationships to be very important to the story. Mallory needed to show her family that she is capable of more than they give her credit for, and no matter where she ends up, she will be okay.
I have read 47 books so far this year and not to be dramatic, but I think this one makes my top 5. That's how much I love the book! I listened to it as an audiobook, and the narration was wonderful, I have no complaints. I may just have to buy a trophy of it for my shelf!
Thank you to Lauren Appelbaum, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
July 12, 2025
An Introvert's Guide to Life and Love is a sweet, feel-good love story of both romantic love and family love. Gramps and Daniel made this book for me. I enjoyed that we get a peek into their relationship, too.
As for Mallory, I like that her character is relatable in that she doesn't have her life together because most of us don't. Sometimes her flaws made me quite frustrated with her though. Her frequent lies made me cringe. For someone so concerned about getting her grandfather to attend therapy, she sure lacks the insight into her own need for therapy!
Overall, An Introvert's Guide to Life and Love is a pleasure to read and it will leave you with an urge to visit your favorite senior in your life.
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
As for Mallory, I like that her character is relatable in that she doesn't have her life together because most of us don't. Sometimes her flaws made me quite frustrated with her though. Her frequent lies made me cringe. For someone so concerned about getting her grandfather to attend therapy, she sure lacks the insight into her own need for therapy!
Overall, An Introvert's Guide to Life and Love is a pleasure to read and it will leave you with an urge to visit your favorite senior in your life.
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
June 30, 2025
There's just something about An Introvert's Guide to Life and Love that had me smiling from beginning to end. Perhaps it's the sweet relationship between a girl and her grandfather, or the meet cute with the perfect man. Either way, it's a sweet journey where an introvert finally gives herself permission to live the life she truly wants.
Couldn't go less than five stars for this sweet story. Highly recommend.
I received an advanced reader copy via netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Couldn't go less than five stars for this sweet story. Highly recommend.
I received an advanced reader copy via netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ but rounded up.
If you’re expecting a cozy, small beach town romance, this is not the book. While there is romance, it’s the subplot. This story’s primary focus is Mallory’s personal growth and her building meaning and loving connections with people.
This book hit home in more than one way since I’m an introvert. I related to Mallory’s social awkwardness and her inner monologue of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, excessive spending habits, and overthinking. I loved watching her battle herself and learn how to build connections with people and live a little.
The writing did feel immature and chunky. There were also odd assumptions and stereotypes that threw me off.
Example: Mallory learned Daniel was a vegetarian and her response was, “Wow. I’m surprised. You seem so...” I don’t even know what I’m going to say. Manly? Floridian?”
😂 Manly? All because he doesn’t like meat, he’s not manly?
And although I really appreciated & related to Mallory’s behavior, there were times that she was too impulsive, erratic, and all over the place. With this plus the writing style, I felt like I was reading more of a diary than a story. Plus, it gave me whiplash.
Nevertheless, I liked this book and would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a quick, emotional cozy read 💕
Thank you, NetGalley & publishers for my gift ARC ☺️
If you’re expecting a cozy, small beach town romance, this is not the book. While there is romance, it’s the subplot. This story’s primary focus is Mallory’s personal growth and her building meaning and loving connections with people.
This book hit home in more than one way since I’m an introvert. I related to Mallory’s social awkwardness and her inner monologue of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, excessive spending habits, and overthinking. I loved watching her battle herself and learn how to build connections with people and live a little.
The writing did feel immature and chunky. There were also odd assumptions and stereotypes that threw me off.
Example: Mallory learned Daniel was a vegetarian and her response was, “Wow. I’m surprised. You seem so...” I don’t even know what I’m going to say. Manly? Floridian?”
😂 Manly? All because he doesn’t like meat, he’s not manly?
And although I really appreciated & related to Mallory’s behavior, there were times that she was too impulsive, erratic, and all over the place. With this plus the writing style, I felt like I was reading more of a diary than a story. Plus, it gave me whiplash.
Nevertheless, I liked this book and would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a quick, emotional cozy read 💕
Thank you, NetGalley & publishers for my gift ARC ☺️
August 28, 2025
This book was cute but could have been better. I wasn’t a fan of the pandemic talk (hello I lived it, I don’t wanna read about it) but I do get why it’s in there to make the FMC even more introverted. But really it just was an excuse she used because she was more scared than introverted. It was really frustrating reading about an almost 30 yr old not knowing how to do everyday stuff that’s easy. I also wasn’t a fan of the whole political aspect. Why have the book set in Florida to only make it know you don’t like their politics because they’re too Republican. That was frustrating to read and honestly could have been left out. I did like Daniel! Hello a red headed MMC?! Yes please! I loved his sunny self and his banter. But let’s really talk about the main star of the whole book, Gramps. He was so adorable and I loved the wisdom that he had. The characters at the senior home were great also and I loved the PowerPoint presentation night. They had me laughing out loud. Overall, it wasn’t bad and I still did enjoy reading it. The narrator did a great job as well.
This book will publish on September 16, 2025. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) | Forever and Hachette Audio | Forever for my advanced readers digital copy/ audio copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
This book will publish on September 16, 2025. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) | Forever and Hachette Audio | Forever for my advanced readers digital copy/ audio copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
August 1, 2025
This book was such a fun and enjoyable read! I would definitely consider it a comfort read!! I don’t know what I was expecting, but this exceeded any expectation. This book fully captured my attention and my heart from the start. If I could give it half stars, it would have been a 4.5 and not just a 4 star!
The only reason it was not a 5 star for me was the political/pandemic stuff thrown in. I am not a fan of reading anything with reality topics in there as I feel like reading is a way for me to escape reality. Even with saying that though, the way the author wrote these topics in were so casual and graceful that it actually did not bother me like it normally would. It almost helped to make the characters that much more relatable.
I felt like the main characters captured my heart from the moment we met each of them and they were so relatable that it kept me sucked in that I couldn’t put the book down. I loved reading about the blossoming relationship between Mallory and Gramps even more so than with her budding romance with the respectful and loyal Daniel. This book reminded me of the lifetime movies I grew up watching with my mom. Such a fast read and the banter was so fun!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever publishing for the ARC!
The only reason it was not a 5 star for me was the political/pandemic stuff thrown in. I am not a fan of reading anything with reality topics in there as I feel like reading is a way for me to escape reality. Even with saying that though, the way the author wrote these topics in were so casual and graceful that it actually did not bother me like it normally would. It almost helped to make the characters that much more relatable.
I felt like the main characters captured my heart from the moment we met each of them and they were so relatable that it kept me sucked in that I couldn’t put the book down. I loved reading about the blossoming relationship between Mallory and Gramps even more so than with her budding romance with the respectful and loyal Daniel. This book reminded me of the lifetime movies I grew up watching with my mom. Such a fast read and the banter was so fun!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever publishing for the ARC!
August 7, 2025
Corporate girl in tech. Remote job. Introvert. Family love with a side of romance.
This book isn’t just about finding love, it’s about Mallory finding herself. It’s about stepping out of her comfort zone so often that it slowly becomes second nature.
If you’re picking this up expecting a typical romance, you might be surprised. At its core, this story is about Mallory’s self-growth, her deep love for family, and her journey toward a life that actually feels like hers. She’s incredibly selfless, and when her grandfather needs her, she drops everything to be there and to restore the home her grandmother left her.
Mallory works a remote tech job, but it’s far from a dream. Endless meetings and a micromanaging boss make her days feel empty. Even when she meets someone special in Florida, her job and obligations in Seattle weigh her down until she finally reaches her breaking point.
Some sections dragged a bit and could’ve been trimmed, but the extra detail added to the cozy, heartwarming vibe that made me want to curl up and keep reading.
This was such a comforting, cozy read. There’s no spice, and the romance doesn’t take center stage until the end but the emotional payoff is worth it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book isn’t just about finding love, it’s about Mallory finding herself. It’s about stepping out of her comfort zone so often that it slowly becomes second nature.
If you’re picking this up expecting a typical romance, you might be surprised. At its core, this story is about Mallory’s self-growth, her deep love for family, and her journey toward a life that actually feels like hers. She’s incredibly selfless, and when her grandfather needs her, she drops everything to be there and to restore the home her grandmother left her.
Mallory works a remote tech job, but it’s far from a dream. Endless meetings and a micromanaging boss make her days feel empty. Even when she meets someone special in Florida, her job and obligations in Seattle weigh her down until she finally reaches her breaking point.
Some sections dragged a bit and could’ve been trimmed, but the extra detail added to the cozy, heartwarming vibe that made me want to curl up and keep reading.
This was such a comforting, cozy read. There’s no spice, and the romance doesn’t take center stage until the end but the emotional payoff is worth it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 31, 2025
I relate to the main character, Mallory, far more than I'd like to admit. I am extremely introverted, dislike confrontation, and realize how exhausting it is leave home sometimes. The awkward stuff that comes out of herself reminds me of myself too. Sometimes the right words just don't come out no matter how hard you try.
Mallory inherits a cottage by the sea when her grandma passes away. The only stipulation is that she must make sure her grandpa is taken care of. I enjoyed Mallory getting closer to her grandpa despite her awkwardness. I understand how she felt when she had difficulty comforting him while he was crying. I loved watching her grandpa find the little joys in the more "modern" things in life like salad kits and Bath And Body Works foam hand soap. As a Florida native, I smiled when Mallory got a Publix cake for the party.
This was easily one of my favorite books this year. I think the story being so relatable made me love it even more. The story was a mix between wholesome and humorous and it was executed great. Thank you to Netgalley, Hachette Audio, and Lauren Appelbaum for an ARC of this audiobook. This review is my own honest opinion.
Mallory inherits a cottage by the sea when her grandma passes away. The only stipulation is that she must make sure her grandpa is taken care of. I enjoyed Mallory getting closer to her grandpa despite her awkwardness. I understand how she felt when she had difficulty comforting him while he was crying. I loved watching her grandpa find the little joys in the more "modern" things in life like salad kits and Bath And Body Works foam hand soap. As a Florida native, I smiled when Mallory got a Publix cake for the party.
This was easily one of my favorite books this year. I think the story being so relatable made me love it even more. The story was a mix between wholesome and humorous and it was executed great. Thank you to Netgalley, Hachette Audio, and Lauren Appelbaum for an ARC of this audiobook. This review is my own honest opinion.
September 3, 2025
The title An Introvert’s Guide to Life and Love immediately drew me in—how could it not? As someone who relates deeply to introverted life, I felt understood from the start.
I chose the audiobook version, and I’m so glad I did! The narrator brought a gentle warmth to the story that perfectly matched the characters' quiet emotions. It gave the whole experience an extra layer of coziness and connection.
The story itself was sweet and heartwarming, filled with moments that felt incredibly familiar. More than once, I caught myself thinking, “This feels like déjà vu.” The main character’s situation with her job during pandemic times mirrored my own—or even my husband’s—so closely, it honestly felt like the author had picked my brain. 😄
My only complaint is that the pacing felt a bit uneven. Some parts dragged or repeated themselves, and then the ending felt a little rushed—like we took the scenic route the whole way and then suddenly jumped to the destination. I tend to prefer a more balanced pace throughout.
Still, this was an enjoyable and comforting listen—perfect for anyone who finds peace in solitude and slow-burn connections. ☕💛
I chose the audiobook version, and I’m so glad I did! The narrator brought a gentle warmth to the story that perfectly matched the characters' quiet emotions. It gave the whole experience an extra layer of coziness and connection.
The story itself was sweet and heartwarming, filled with moments that felt incredibly familiar. More than once, I caught myself thinking, “This feels like déjà vu.” The main character’s situation with her job during pandemic times mirrored my own—or even my husband’s—so closely, it honestly felt like the author had picked my brain. 😄
My only complaint is that the pacing felt a bit uneven. Some parts dragged or repeated themselves, and then the ending felt a little rushed—like we took the scenic route the whole way and then suddenly jumped to the destination. I tend to prefer a more balanced pace throughout.
Still, this was an enjoyable and comforting listen—perfect for anyone who finds peace in solitude and slow-burn connections. ☕💛
July 6, 2025
4.25
This was so much more than I thought it was going to be. I loved it. Marllory works in tech. Everyone else in her family is a lawyer. She thought she was going to go down that path to but it end up not working out. Instead, now she works remotely She also has a shopping addiction. When her grandmother passes and she inherit a cottage with a stipulation that she doesn’t sell it and she takes care of her grandfather she ends up going down to Florida for a visit….and to renovate it for rental.
We get a heartwarming story of reconnection with a grandfather. A love story with the person who is her property manager. And just a funny and overall heartwarming time. I really loved that we had lots of time with her and her grandfather. I loved the writing, the is my first Lauren Appelbaum. And this looks like it is her second book. I will definitely be checking out the other book and watching for subsequent works that this author put out.
Thank you to Forever for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was so much more than I thought it was going to be. I loved it. Marllory works in tech. Everyone else in her family is a lawyer. She thought she was going to go down that path to but it end up not working out. Instead, now she works remotely She also has a shopping addiction. When her grandmother passes and she inherit a cottage with a stipulation that she doesn’t sell it and she takes care of her grandfather she ends up going down to Florida for a visit….and to renovate it for rental.
We get a heartwarming story of reconnection with a grandfather. A love story with the person who is her property manager. And just a funny and overall heartwarming time. I really loved that we had lots of time with her and her grandfather. I loved the writing, the is my first Lauren Appelbaum. And this looks like it is her second book. I will definitely be checking out the other book and watching for subsequent works that this author put out.
Thank you to Forever for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 20, 2025
Mallory, is the quintessential introvert.
Works in tech remotely from home, buys everything online so she doesn’t have to deal with people, doesn’t leave her apartment unless absolutely necessary.
When her grandma passes away, leaving Mallory to inherit the family cottage in Florida while also being tasked with taking care of her grandpa, Mallory is stunned to say the least.
Needing help with both of these items, Mallory decides to go to Florida, check on gramps, and get the house ready for some new tennets. She enlists the help of local property manager, Daniel.
With working remotely, she doesn’t have to be home.. nothing can go wrong, right?
This book was super cute! I loved it! Gramps was amazing. Love his character.
Definitely was a slow, slow, slow burn. I found myself getting annoyed with Mallory at times.
Huge thanks to the author, publishing company, and NetGalley for the arc read!
Works in tech remotely from home, buys everything online so she doesn’t have to deal with people, doesn’t leave her apartment unless absolutely necessary.
When her grandma passes away, leaving Mallory to inherit the family cottage in Florida while also being tasked with taking care of her grandpa, Mallory is stunned to say the least.
Needing help with both of these items, Mallory decides to go to Florida, check on gramps, and get the house ready for some new tennets. She enlists the help of local property manager, Daniel.
With working remotely, she doesn’t have to be home.. nothing can go wrong, right?
This book was super cute! I loved it! Gramps was amazing. Love his character.
Definitely was a slow, slow, slow burn. I found myself getting annoyed with Mallory at times.
Huge thanks to the author, publishing company, and NetGalley for the arc read!
August 5, 2025
I can't believe this is only Lauren's second book. I couldn't put it down. One thing I love about her stories is that they're character-focused with an emphasis on personal growth and development. There was a romance, but to me it didn't feel like the main plot point. Nope, that was all about Mallory, which I loved. Her time with her grandfather, her newfound friend group, and finding herself in Florida is what made me really devour this book. As someone in her late 20s, I relate to Mallory quite a bit, and seeing her from beginning to end was fantastic. This had heart, humor, and tangible emotion. I, of course, loved the Jewish representation, and I think Appelbaum handled grief really well, too. It makes me excited to see what she will do next. Thank you to Forever for sending me an ARC to read and review!
August 27, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the audiobook. A slow burn romcom with a highly introverted mfc, but when her grandmother passes and leaves her a house states away, she goes to fix it up and to help her grandfather with day to day tasks. She falls for a guy in a bar only to find out he’s the handy man she hired to fix up the house. When multiple problems arise she ends up cancelling her flight home and staying put to help her grandfather. She states making friends and falling into a new routine when she gets an email from her job saying that they can no longer work remote and must report to the office, but she starts realizing that she was complacent in her old life but starting to feel useful in Florida with her grandfather.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2025
Thank you to Forever Publishing and Net Galley for letting me read this book.
This book was so,so good! I related to so much of this character (maybe because I am an introvert, maybe because I also took the lead in caring for my grandparents) I found myself cheering her on and getting misty-eyed at parts that touched me. This book is rom-com, Hallmark movie -esque in all the most amazing ways! So,so good! 😊
This book was so,so good! I related to so much of this character (maybe because I am an introvert, maybe because I also took the lead in caring for my grandparents) I found myself cheering her on and getting misty-eyed at parts that touched me. This book is rom-com, Hallmark movie -esque in all the most amazing ways! So,so good! 😊
September 1, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4. A cute story, although the plot was not particularly gripping. More along the lines of being lighthearted and cozy. But I will say that as an autistic woman with social anxiety, I certainly could relate to the main character, especially with regard to eye contact and social interactions. Refreshing to see a FMC who is relatable in that sense.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for review consideration.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for review consideration.
July 30, 2025
I absolutely can not wait to get my hands on this book!
August 19, 2025
This was such sweet, relatable read! As a fellow introvert I really related to the character of Mallory. It was so beautiful to see her open up to life with the assistance of so many vibrant characters.
July 12, 2025
Book Review: An Introvert’s Guide to Life and Love by Lauren Appelbaum
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
This book felt like a warm, quiet weekend in — cozy clothes, tea in hand, something gently emotional playing in the background. I picked up An Introvert’s Guide to Life and Love expecting a sweet, maybe slightly quirky romance, and found myself wrapped in something a little softer and a lot more tender. It’s a story about letting go, letting people in, and learning to be present in your own life — all in the slow, sometimes messy, way real change happens.
Mallory Rosen is a creature of habit. She lives alone in Seattle, works from home, keeps to herself, and rarely ventures outside her carefully curated bubble. When her grandmother passes away and leaves her a seaside cottage in Florida — with the condition that she look after her grandfather — Mallory is thrown into a life that’s noisier, messier, and far more human than she’s used to.
Her plan is simple: check in on Gramps, prep the cottage for rental, and get back to her routine. But plans unravel quickly. The WiFi is patchy. Her grandfather is more independent and opinionated than she expected. And the property manager, Daniel, is far too charming for someone she’s supposed to ignore. Suddenly, Mallory finds herself swept into a world of senior aerobics, community gossip, shared dinners, and unexpected feelings.
What makes this book shine is how grounded it feels. Mallory doesn’t undergo some instant transformation. She resists. She complains. She makes selfish choices. But little by little, she starts noticing the things she’s been missing. The small joys. The warmth in shared silence. The possibility of belonging. Her growth feels honest, not rushed. That slow unfolding is part of the book’s charm.
The relationship that truly anchors the story is the one between Mallory and her grandfather. I absolutely adored their bond. It’s not saccharine or forced — it’s a little awkward, a little prickly at first. But underneath it all is so much love and unspoken grief. One moment that stayed with me was when her grandfather quietly tells her, “I spent my life loving one woman. Now I get to spend a little more time loving the people she loved.” That line made me pause. It’s simple, but it carries so much tenderness and truth. Watching their relationship evolve was, for me, the heart of the book.
Daniel, the love interest, is sweet, thoughtful, and genuinely likable. He’s also a bit of a cinnamon roll — kind in a way that feels earned, not just convenient. Their chemistry is subtle, more companionable than fiery, but it works within the story’s rhythm. If you’re looking for a grand, dramatic romance, this won’t be it. But if you love a slow-burn connection that builds through shared space and mutual respect, you’ll find something lovely here.
The romance doesn’t dominate the plot, and I liked that. This isn’t a story about a woman being saved by love. It’s about her saving herself — by opening up, by sticking around long enough to feel something real, by realizing she doesn’t have to live life with her guard up all the time. The love story is just one piece of that larger journey.
The setting plays a big part in the coziness of this book. The beach town in Florida, the independent living community, the locals who never mind their own business — it all added to the charm. Every time I picked up the book, I felt like I was being gently nudged into a world that moved slower, one that asked me to sit still and listen. I could picture the breezy porches, the mismatched mugs, the warm lights at night, and the smell of ocean air drifting in through open windows.
That said, the pacing isn’t for everyone. It lingers in the quiet moments — the ones between action, the pauses between decisions. Some chapters revolve around very little: a walk, a phone call, a cup of coffee, a memory. I personally liked that. There’s a softness to it, like the book is more interested in atmosphere and emotion than plot. But if you prefer a more fast-paced story or high tension, this one might feel slow.
Mallory’s relationship with her job — and her somewhat careless attitude toward it — did make me pause. She’s not especially driven or focused when it comes to her career, and at times that bordered on frustrating. She lies to her boss, forgets meetings, and zones out in ways that felt irresponsible. I wish there had been a little more depth given to her professional arc, especially because her return-to-office crisis becomes such a pivotal moment in the plot. It would’ve been nice to see her take more ownership there.
There’s also a thread about Mallory’s online shopping habit that gets introduced but never fully explored. It’s clear it’s a coping mechanism — something she uses to feel in control — but the book never quite dives deep enough into it. I didn’t need a full subplot, but a little more reflection would have added another layer to her character.
Still, what the story gets right far outweighs those bumps. There’s a sense of emotional honesty in Appelbaum’s writing that I really appreciated. She doesn’t try to tie everything up too neatly. Mallory doesn’t become a different person by the end — she’s still awkward, still uncertain, still figuring it out. But she’s also braver, softer, and more present. She starts listening more. She opens her door without flinching. She learns that home isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling you build through connection.
The writing is gentle, sometimes funny, and always warm. There’s a comforting simplicity to the prose that made it easy to settle into. No flashy metaphors, no overdone drama — just people trying their best, stumbling into each other’s lives, and figuring out how to keep going when things shift.
The final chapters left me with that quiet, satisfying feeling I get from a really good slice-of-life story. The ending doesn’t overreach. It doesn’t need to. It offers Mallory (and us) a small but meaningful sense of peace — the kind that comes from staying still long enough to understand what you want, and finding the courage to choose it.
This isn’t a story that changes everything — but it’s the kind of story that gently reminds you of what matters. And sometimes, that’s exactly what I need.
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
This book felt like a warm, quiet weekend in — cozy clothes, tea in hand, something gently emotional playing in the background. I picked up An Introvert’s Guide to Life and Love expecting a sweet, maybe slightly quirky romance, and found myself wrapped in something a little softer and a lot more tender. It’s a story about letting go, letting people in, and learning to be present in your own life — all in the slow, sometimes messy, way real change happens.
Mallory Rosen is a creature of habit. She lives alone in Seattle, works from home, keeps to herself, and rarely ventures outside her carefully curated bubble. When her grandmother passes away and leaves her a seaside cottage in Florida — with the condition that she look after her grandfather — Mallory is thrown into a life that’s noisier, messier, and far more human than she’s used to.
Her plan is simple: check in on Gramps, prep the cottage for rental, and get back to her routine. But plans unravel quickly. The WiFi is patchy. Her grandfather is more independent and opinionated than she expected. And the property manager, Daniel, is far too charming for someone she’s supposed to ignore. Suddenly, Mallory finds herself swept into a world of senior aerobics, community gossip, shared dinners, and unexpected feelings.
What makes this book shine is how grounded it feels. Mallory doesn’t undergo some instant transformation. She resists. She complains. She makes selfish choices. But little by little, she starts noticing the things she’s been missing. The small joys. The warmth in shared silence. The possibility of belonging. Her growth feels honest, not rushed. That slow unfolding is part of the book’s charm.
The relationship that truly anchors the story is the one between Mallory and her grandfather. I absolutely adored their bond. It’s not saccharine or forced — it’s a little awkward, a little prickly at first. But underneath it all is so much love and unspoken grief. One moment that stayed with me was when her grandfather quietly tells her, “I spent my life loving one woman. Now I get to spend a little more time loving the people she loved.” That line made me pause. It’s simple, but it carries so much tenderness and truth. Watching their relationship evolve was, for me, the heart of the book.
Daniel, the love interest, is sweet, thoughtful, and genuinely likable. He’s also a bit of a cinnamon roll — kind in a way that feels earned, not just convenient. Their chemistry is subtle, more companionable than fiery, but it works within the story’s rhythm. If you’re looking for a grand, dramatic romance, this won’t be it. But if you love a slow-burn connection that builds through shared space and mutual respect, you’ll find something lovely here.
The romance doesn’t dominate the plot, and I liked that. This isn’t a story about a woman being saved by love. It’s about her saving herself — by opening up, by sticking around long enough to feel something real, by realizing she doesn’t have to live life with her guard up all the time. The love story is just one piece of that larger journey.
The setting plays a big part in the coziness of this book. The beach town in Florida, the independent living community, the locals who never mind their own business — it all added to the charm. Every time I picked up the book, I felt like I was being gently nudged into a world that moved slower, one that asked me to sit still and listen. I could picture the breezy porches, the mismatched mugs, the warm lights at night, and the smell of ocean air drifting in through open windows.
That said, the pacing isn’t for everyone. It lingers in the quiet moments — the ones between action, the pauses between decisions. Some chapters revolve around very little: a walk, a phone call, a cup of coffee, a memory. I personally liked that. There’s a softness to it, like the book is more interested in atmosphere and emotion than plot. But if you prefer a more fast-paced story or high tension, this one might feel slow.
Mallory’s relationship with her job — and her somewhat careless attitude toward it — did make me pause. She’s not especially driven or focused when it comes to her career, and at times that bordered on frustrating. She lies to her boss, forgets meetings, and zones out in ways that felt irresponsible. I wish there had been a little more depth given to her professional arc, especially because her return-to-office crisis becomes such a pivotal moment in the plot. It would’ve been nice to see her take more ownership there.
There’s also a thread about Mallory’s online shopping habit that gets introduced but never fully explored. It’s clear it’s a coping mechanism — something she uses to feel in control — but the book never quite dives deep enough into it. I didn’t need a full subplot, but a little more reflection would have added another layer to her character.
Still, what the story gets right far outweighs those bumps. There’s a sense of emotional honesty in Appelbaum’s writing that I really appreciated. She doesn’t try to tie everything up too neatly. Mallory doesn’t become a different person by the end — she’s still awkward, still uncertain, still figuring it out. But she’s also braver, softer, and more present. She starts listening more. She opens her door without flinching. She learns that home isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling you build through connection.
The writing is gentle, sometimes funny, and always warm. There’s a comforting simplicity to the prose that made it easy to settle into. No flashy metaphors, no overdone drama — just people trying their best, stumbling into each other’s lives, and figuring out how to keep going when things shift.
The final chapters left me with that quiet, satisfying feeling I get from a really good slice-of-life story. The ending doesn’t overreach. It doesn’t need to. It offers Mallory (and us) a small but meaningful sense of peace — the kind that comes from staying still long enough to understand what you want, and finding the courage to choose it.
This isn’t a story that changes everything — but it’s the kind of story that gently reminds you of what matters. And sometimes, that’s exactly what I need.
August 7, 2025
Mallory - Initially Annoying, but the book has HEART!
🌅As a bi-coastal traveler, I love reading about Seattle neighborhoods and Tampa/St. Pete areas I’ve visited often. It almost makes up for Mallory Rosen’s annoying habits. I do get her anxiety and desire to hide out in her Seattle apartment rather than deal with the chaos of the outside world. And the premise of shaking all that up by having her sudden inheritance, which sends her to coastal Florida with a house to fix, a grandfather to care for, and a tightly sealed comfort zone about to be cracked wide open, wasn’t too far out there. But the slow part in the middle, the lying to her boss, trying to keep track of her work day (wasn’t she supposed to be working instead of riding a bike), and her whining about ripping up carpet or painting a wall got to be too much. I work remotely, I work with millennials, I parent millennials, many of whom are anxiety-ridden introverts, and even they would be rolling their eyes at Mallory. What redeems Mallory? Her tender, introspective journey of grief, dealing with her grandmother’s death, and her connection with Gramps and his friends, her growth is all wrapped in cozy seaside charm and anchored by the gentle rhythms of chosen family.
This book delivers an unexpected emotional resonance beneath its soft and initially annoying exterior. While the romance between Mallory and Daniel—the kind, patient local property manager—is sweet and slow-burning, the story’s true heartbeat lies in Mallory’s evolving bond with her grandfather—their relationship blooms with awkward starts, quiet grief, and understated affection that feels deeply earned. I found myself wholly invested in their dynamic, which was both touching and beautifully written without tipping into sentimentality.
Mallory herself is overly flawed. Her introversion, avoidance habits, and online shopping as a coping mechanism aren’t just character quirks—they’re reflections of real-life anxiety, grief, and the push-pull of change (she’s the one who appears to need some therapy, instead of Gramps). Watching her learn to engage with her surroundings, take emotional risks, and allow herself to feel discomfort was deeply rewarding. She doesn’t reinvent herself overnight, and I appreciated that the book resisted that kind of narrative shortcut.
The pacing may be slow for readers craving high drama or rapid plot twists—much of the book unfolds through quiet, slice-of-life moments and internal revelations. The writing is warm and inviting, the dialogue authentic, and the atmosphere immersive. The beachside community is vividly drawn, filled with nosy neighbors, aerobics classes, and a subtle current of nostalgia that makes the whole story feel like slipping into a favorite sweater.
There are moments where the prose veers into slightly immature or uneven territory, and a few character assumptions—especially around gender stereotypes—felt clunky or out of place. Additionally, Mallory’s professional arc could have used more grounding; her disregard for her job raised stakes that didn’t quite resolve satisfyingly. Still, these are minor bumps in an otherwise emotionally rich story.
I found it balanced humor, heartfelt family dynamics, and a soft-focus love story without rushing the emotional beats. This book is a quiet little gem. It’s not about a grand transformation—but about the courage it takes to open the door, one small step at a time.
🌅As a bi-coastal traveler, I love reading about Seattle neighborhoods and Tampa/St. Pete areas I’ve visited often. It almost makes up for Mallory Rosen’s annoying habits. I do get her anxiety and desire to hide out in her Seattle apartment rather than deal with the chaos of the outside world. And the premise of shaking all that up by having her sudden inheritance, which sends her to coastal Florida with a house to fix, a grandfather to care for, and a tightly sealed comfort zone about to be cracked wide open, wasn’t too far out there. But the slow part in the middle, the lying to her boss, trying to keep track of her work day (wasn’t she supposed to be working instead of riding a bike), and her whining about ripping up carpet or painting a wall got to be too much. I work remotely, I work with millennials, I parent millennials, many of whom are anxiety-ridden introverts, and even they would be rolling their eyes at Mallory. What redeems Mallory? Her tender, introspective journey of grief, dealing with her grandmother’s death, and her connection with Gramps and his friends, her growth is all wrapped in cozy seaside charm and anchored by the gentle rhythms of chosen family.
This book delivers an unexpected emotional resonance beneath its soft and initially annoying exterior. While the romance between Mallory and Daniel—the kind, patient local property manager—is sweet and slow-burning, the story’s true heartbeat lies in Mallory’s evolving bond with her grandfather—their relationship blooms with awkward starts, quiet grief, and understated affection that feels deeply earned. I found myself wholly invested in their dynamic, which was both touching and beautifully written without tipping into sentimentality.
Mallory herself is overly flawed. Her introversion, avoidance habits, and online shopping as a coping mechanism aren’t just character quirks—they’re reflections of real-life anxiety, grief, and the push-pull of change (she’s the one who appears to need some therapy, instead of Gramps). Watching her learn to engage with her surroundings, take emotional risks, and allow herself to feel discomfort was deeply rewarding. She doesn’t reinvent herself overnight, and I appreciated that the book resisted that kind of narrative shortcut.
The pacing may be slow for readers craving high drama or rapid plot twists—much of the book unfolds through quiet, slice-of-life moments and internal revelations. The writing is warm and inviting, the dialogue authentic, and the atmosphere immersive. The beachside community is vividly drawn, filled with nosy neighbors, aerobics classes, and a subtle current of nostalgia that makes the whole story feel like slipping into a favorite sweater.
There are moments where the prose veers into slightly immature or uneven territory, and a few character assumptions—especially around gender stereotypes—felt clunky or out of place. Additionally, Mallory’s professional arc could have used more grounding; her disregard for her job raised stakes that didn’t quite resolve satisfyingly. Still, these are minor bumps in an otherwise emotionally rich story.
I found it balanced humor, heartfelt family dynamics, and a soft-focus love story without rushing the emotional beats. This book is a quiet little gem. It’s not about a grand transformation—but about the courage it takes to open the door, one small step at a time.
July 11, 2025
What a charming story! "An Introvert's Guide to Life and Love" by Lauren Appelbaum is a delightful women's fiction novel about family, personal growth, and stepping out of your comfort zone. Written in the present tense, the story follows an introverted woman's life-changing journey from her perspective.
Mallory Rosen works from home in her comfortable Seattle apartment, in a tech job she doesn’t really enjoy. Her parents and sister are all lawyers, so she’s sort of the black sheep of the family—the only one not working in the legal profession. She’s full of insecurities, and as an introvert, working from home suits her just fine. She has her own routine and loves her alone time.
All that changes when she inherits her late grandmother's seaside cottage in Florida. There’s only one condition: that she takes care of her grandfather. Mallory flies to Florida for a few weeks to sort out the property and reconnect with her grandfather, who lives in an independent living community, doing her best to care for him as her grandmother asked. Her stay lengthens more than she predicted, as the cottage needs fixing before it can be let out—according to her extroverted property manager, Daniel. Just as she starts to find her rhythm, real life gets in the way.
I enjoyed this feel-good book immensely. Please note that this is more women’s fiction than rom-com. Although there is a slow-burn romance, it isn’t the main focus. The pace is steady—some might say slow—but it didn’t feel that way to me. It’s a slice-of-life kind of story, so the pace felt just right. And I absolutely loved the small-town vibes and the portrayal of community life.
The heroine’s awkwardness is relatable, and I found it easy to connect with her. I loved her relationship with Daniel and her growing bond with her grandfather. I adored their interactions—the nightly chats, the gradual development of trust and closeness. It reminded me of my own relationship with my late grandparents, whom I greatly miss.
Yes, Mallory isn’t perfect. She doesn’t always act responsibly (especially job-wise) and can be a bit immature at times—but that’s what makes her so relatable. And she’s a “good egg.” One detail that nagged at me was that, on one hand, she didn’t eat pork because she’s Jewish (I loved having a Jewish heroine), but on the other hand, she ate seafood, which isn’t kosher.
The writing style is natural and flows well, with touches of gentle humor that balance out the heavier emotional themes. There’s a subtle thread of grief and healing, as Mallory’s grandfather learns to adjust to life without his wife—with help from his granddaughter and the supportive community around him. Through their growing bond, Mallory also begins to open up and grow—with others and within herself.
Overall, this is a lovely story with a slow-burn romance that I simply adored. The story arc was engaging, and the emotional undercurrents gave it depth. I recommend this heartwarming novel to readers who enjoy stories about family, self-discovery, community life, and finding love when you least expect it.
* Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* Review on my blog: https://galibookish.blogspot.com/2025...
Mallory Rosen works from home in her comfortable Seattle apartment, in a tech job she doesn’t really enjoy. Her parents and sister are all lawyers, so she’s sort of the black sheep of the family—the only one not working in the legal profession. She’s full of insecurities, and as an introvert, working from home suits her just fine. She has her own routine and loves her alone time.
All that changes when she inherits her late grandmother's seaside cottage in Florida. There’s only one condition: that she takes care of her grandfather. Mallory flies to Florida for a few weeks to sort out the property and reconnect with her grandfather, who lives in an independent living community, doing her best to care for him as her grandmother asked. Her stay lengthens more than she predicted, as the cottage needs fixing before it can be let out—according to her extroverted property manager, Daniel. Just as she starts to find her rhythm, real life gets in the way.
I enjoyed this feel-good book immensely. Please note that this is more women’s fiction than rom-com. Although there is a slow-burn romance, it isn’t the main focus. The pace is steady—some might say slow—but it didn’t feel that way to me. It’s a slice-of-life kind of story, so the pace felt just right. And I absolutely loved the small-town vibes and the portrayal of community life.
The heroine’s awkwardness is relatable, and I found it easy to connect with her. I loved her relationship with Daniel and her growing bond with her grandfather. I adored their interactions—the nightly chats, the gradual development of trust and closeness. It reminded me of my own relationship with my late grandparents, whom I greatly miss.
Yes, Mallory isn’t perfect. She doesn’t always act responsibly (especially job-wise) and can be a bit immature at times—but that’s what makes her so relatable. And she’s a “good egg.” One detail that nagged at me was that, on one hand, she didn’t eat pork because she’s Jewish (I loved having a Jewish heroine), but on the other hand, she ate seafood, which isn’t kosher.
The writing style is natural and flows well, with touches of gentle humor that balance out the heavier emotional themes. There’s a subtle thread of grief and healing, as Mallory’s grandfather learns to adjust to life without his wife—with help from his granddaughter and the supportive community around him. Through their growing bond, Mallory also begins to open up and grow—with others and within herself.
Overall, this is a lovely story with a slow-burn romance that I simply adored. The story arc was engaging, and the emotional undercurrents gave it depth. I recommend this heartwarming novel to readers who enjoy stories about family, self-discovery, community life, and finding love when you least expect it.
* Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* Review on my blog: https://galibookish.blogspot.com/2025...
August 10, 2025
I am giving this book a 3.5/5 stars (rounding down). This book is a feel good, fuzzy, rom-com esq. story that follows the POV of Mallory, an introvert (as the title suggests) who is stuck in a life rut and is mostly looking to find herself. Mallory has always felt that she was a side character in her own life, she sees her adult life as mostly a series of missteps. From not getting into Law school like the rest of the family to being down on love. This book follows Mallory from her home in Seattle, where she is mostly just going through the motions, alone, to a hot and vibrant senior living community in Florida.
After Mallory's grandmother dies, she inherits her mother's family home in Florida. She visits the property to ensure the building is ready for new tenants while keeping her recently widowed grandfather company. Mallory's grandfather lives in a senior community and like Mallory, is a bit of a hermit. Mallory quickly realizes that her comfortable life in Seattle may not be all that it's chalked up to be when she meets Daniel, the cute red head property manager.
As you can guess, Mallory catches feelings for Daniel but knows nothing can come of it because her remote job in Seattle will soon be returning to the office. Mallory's grandfather is a hidden gem of the story and provides the story with levity and emotion.
This story is cute, but I would say it is quite light on the romance aspect. You get a lot of scenes of Mallory's daily life and the story often reads more like a journal than a love story. And maybe that's intentional, but I was personally hoping for more of a romance than I got. It also was very closed door which, is fine, but really not what I wanted from this story. Maybe not open door but a little more than the door closing, maybe slamming, in your face. I also would have really liked to have a Daniel POV for at least a chapter or two. I was convinced, even by the end of the book, that Daniel liked Mallory but I didn't sense it was like earth shattering love or anything like that.
I have never had such a hard time deciding if a related to a character or not. As a remote working millennial myself I found that part of Mallory's story relatable but man did she make some choices that I felt were often out of character for her persona. Especially when it came to her remote job. But I digress. This book is really about the disappointment adults often feel for how their lives are turning out, not living up to family and personal expectations, and finding ones self. How to find that happiness on your own terms and becoming your own main character are relatable themes.
I really enjoyed the millennial vibes and social isolation themes but the book fell flat for me in the romance aspect and I wanted more of that and less of the day to day thoughts of Mal. It is a quick read that keeps you invested and wanting to know how everything turns out. I did like the authors writing style and the book was fast paced enough to keep me interested so I would read more from this author.
Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for an e-ARC for this book in exchange for my honest review.
After Mallory's grandmother dies, she inherits her mother's family home in Florida. She visits the property to ensure the building is ready for new tenants while keeping her recently widowed grandfather company. Mallory's grandfather lives in a senior community and like Mallory, is a bit of a hermit. Mallory quickly realizes that her comfortable life in Seattle may not be all that it's chalked up to be when she meets Daniel, the cute red head property manager.
As you can guess, Mallory catches feelings for Daniel but knows nothing can come of it because her remote job in Seattle will soon be returning to the office. Mallory's grandfather is a hidden gem of the story and provides the story with levity and emotion.
This story is cute, but I would say it is quite light on the romance aspect. You get a lot of scenes of Mallory's daily life and the story often reads more like a journal than a love story. And maybe that's intentional, but I was personally hoping for more of a romance than I got. It also was very closed door which, is fine, but really not what I wanted from this story. Maybe not open door but a little more than the door closing, maybe slamming, in your face. I also would have really liked to have a Daniel POV for at least a chapter or two. I was convinced, even by the end of the book, that Daniel liked Mallory but I didn't sense it was like earth shattering love or anything like that.
I have never had such a hard time deciding if a related to a character or not. As a remote working millennial myself I found that part of Mallory's story relatable but man did she make some choices that I felt were often out of character for her persona. Especially when it came to her remote job. But I digress. This book is really about the disappointment adults often feel for how their lives are turning out, not living up to family and personal expectations, and finding ones self. How to find that happiness on your own terms and becoming your own main character are relatable themes.
I really enjoyed the millennial vibes and social isolation themes but the book fell flat for me in the romance aspect and I wanted more of that and less of the day to day thoughts of Mal. It is a quick read that keeps you invested and wanting to know how everything turns out. I did like the authors writing style and the book was fast paced enough to keep me interested so I would read more from this author.
Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for an e-ARC for this book in exchange for my honest review.
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