Ellen meets Jim at a posh restaurant, hoping for an evening of fine wine and better conversation. Maria sets out on a walk with a man she's been looking forward to meeting. In First Date Stories, these women, and others, enter into initial liaisons with well-honed expectations—and come out on the other side with extraordinary tales to tell.
Chances are, every woman in her mid-thirties and over who is seeking a loving companion has a first date tale of triumph or disaster. Each of the candid and memorable stories Jodi Klein shares here imparts a bit of wisdom—with the help of takeaway tips and inspirational quotes—to guide readers through what can be a baffling, intimidating, and sometimes lonely journey.
Before a promising first date, or after an awful one, First Date Stories offers readers the reminder that being single should be celebrated, that not all first dates are created equal, and that every initial encounter has the possibility to become something long-lasting and wonderful.
Industry Reviews
2022 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Finalist in Relationships (Non-Fiction)
2022 Firebird Book Awards First Place Winner in Short Stories
"Readers will likely come to this book for the intriguing stories, but they'll stay for the supportive common sense that the author dispenses, and they'll appreciate her compassionate tone throughout. A sensible, readable, and, above all, forgiving overview of modern dating."
-Kirkus Reviews
"First Date Stories gives the caliber of experiences that one hopes for when selecting a book . . . I absolutely loved this book and wholly appreciate the contributions that Jodi weaves into a fantastic anthology. Really well done."
-Readers' Favorite, 5-star review
"This collection of hopeful, relatable, funny, and admittedly eye roll-inducing stories wonderfully captures what it's like to date in midlife, with savvy advice that will make dating easier for readers. A must-read for all single women who are considering getting out there or are back out there."
-Erika Ettin, author of Love at First Site: Tips and Tales for Online Dating Success from a Modern-Day Matchmaker
"First Date Stories had me laughing from the start. Jodi Klein is a wonderful storyteller, and she does a great job with description. Whether nibbling samples at a grocery store counter or conversing at a coffee shop, I felt like I was actually on each date. For someone who has been married for thirty-eight years, that's something. If you are single, this book, full of advice and warning signs, is for you. It's intelligent, humorous, thought-provoking-the perfect companion."
-Corie Adjmi, author of Life and Other Shortcomings
"Such an enjoyable book! While many 'seasoned daters' can get frustrated with the process of finding a partner, Jodi Klein masterfully points out how each date provides us with valuable knowledge about ourselves and gets us one step closer to finding enduring love."
-Marisa T. Cohen, relationship researcher and author of From First Kiss to Forever: A Scientific Approach to Love
