Ghosts by Dolly Alderton

Nina, having broken up with her long-term boyfriend, finally feels ready to explore a dating app in order to begin to see who else might be out there for her. She feels as if everyone around her is married and having children, and while she is a successful food writer, she is ready for companionship and well, possibly marriage as well. She also feels this might be a good distraction from what is truly on her mind – her dear father who is becoming more and more forgetful, confused. When Nina has success on her first date through the app, it is a bit unexpected, especially given her friend, Lola’s poor luck. Max seems to be everything she is looking for – but is it for real?

This is an entertaining read – light, but substantive enough to keep the reader engaged. Nina’s struggle with her father’s increasing dementia is clearly her primary concern – and it is something I believe many readers can relate to, given how common this is. But this heavier theme is cleverly tucked inside the lighter issue of her dating frustrations (also common and relatable).

What I am also becoming increasingly aware of is this issue of ghosting. In our current age of social media and texting, fewer and fewer folks are able to confront problems head on. Rather that speaking a truth to someone you have a relationship with, it is more convenient to just avoid, go silent. I feel strongly that this is also utterly cowardly and immature. We as a culture need to improve our social skills, become more – not less – comfortable with uncomfortable conversations. If we are to forge true connections to others, we need to be able to say things that are hard to say and learn how to do so in a gentle and kind manner.

I believe this is a solid read. Curious to hear what others think!