13 Dates, Matt Dunn

Netgalley copy in exchange for an honest review. 

The Blurb 

When Noah Wilson first encounters the quirky, opinionated and very beautiful Angel Fallon, his world is turned upside down. It’s clear she’s not his normal type, but Noah can’t stop thinking about her—which doesn’t bode well for the blind date he’s already late for.
Convinced by his friend (and self-professed dating expert) Marlon that thirteen dates is all you need to fall in love, Noah decides to give it a try with Angel. They should be incompatible: she’s impulsive and he’s a planner; he wants to settle down and she doesn’t ‘do’ relationships—or anything, for that matter—the way Noah is used to. But there’s something about Angel, and Noah can’t shake the idea that all they need is twelve more dates.
Despite some near-disasters involving rock climbing, saddle sores and jellied eels, it seems his plan may actually work. But even if they do reach the magic number, can that really mean they’ll just fall into their happily-ever-after?

My Thoughts 

This is the type of quality, sweet book I am coming for! I loved it!

For me, the strong point of this book is the cast of characters. Noah is a sweet guy, very awkward and always so corny/funny, and Angel is the strong, independent woman who is still vulnerable but hides it well. And I love them both dearly. Still, I have to admit my favourite character is Mary, Noah's landlady who is the greatest gran in the history of all fictional grans (if such thing exists).

I also love the fact that we're reading a romance novel from the point of view of a man. Especially Noah's, who is more like ordinary guys than not. I would love to give him a hug, just saying. 

The theory of the thirteen dates is a little scary, but it is a fun and clever way to craft the novel: it keeps the pace intact, gives you a goal, and you can't get bored.

I really had so much fun reading those pages!

And so you will, too.

Selected Quotes 

• "On reflection, meeting the love of your life on the way to a blind date with someone else probably isn't the best preparation, and to be honest, given how my head's spinning having just met Angel, I'd rather not go."  
• "I know how to do lots of things. Doesn't mean I can, though." 

 ★★★★

Links 

Goodreads 

Author's website