21 Truths About Love

Dive into the witty and heartfelt world of Daniel Mayrock in Matthew Green's acclaimed novel, "21 Truths About Love." This isn't just another story about a struggling bookseller; it's a deeply human exploration of love, responsibility, and the lengths we go to for family, told through the uniquely engaging lens of obsessive list-making. Meet Dan, a man at a crossroads. He adores his wife, Jill, perhaps more than words can express. However, his impulsive decision to ditch his old job and pursue his passion by opening a bookshop is now casting a long shadow. The bookstore is floundering, finances are dwindling, and Jill is eager to start a family. The biggest problem? Dan hasn't been entirely honest with Jill about their precarious financial situation. Then, a joyful surprise: Jill is pregnant. Suddenly, the stakes are higher than ever. Dan faces an overwhelming pressure to provide, not just financially, but emotionally. He feels the weight of expectation, the desire to be a worthy partner and a loving father. But beneath the surface lies a deeper yearning. Dan isn't just trying to save his bookstore or secure his family's future; he's battling a profound sense of inadequacy. He longs to break free from the ordinary, to prove he's not a failure, and to escape the shadow of Jill's deceased first husband, a looming presence that constantly fuels his insecurities. What makes "21 Truths About Love" truly special is its unconventional narrative structure. The entire story unfolds through Dan's meticulously crafted lists. These aren't just grocery lists or to-do lists; they're windows into his soul. Brimming with sardonic humor, quirky observations, and brutally honest self-reflections, Dan's lists paint a vivid and intimate portrait of a man wrestling with his demons. As you delve into each list, you'll uncover hidden truths, painful vulnerabilities, and unexpected moments of levity. Green masterfully uses this format to create a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Think of it as a modern, literary answer to a romantic comedy, with a healthy dose of existential pondering thrown in for good measure. Readers and critics have lauded the novel for its authenticity, its clever wit, and its unflinching portrayal of the complexities of modern relationships. The writing is sharp, insightful, and consistently funny, making it a highly enjoyable and thought-provoking read. You'll laugh, you'll cringe, and you might even find yourself recognizing a little bit of Dan in yourself. If you're searching for a book that will make you think, feel, and perhaps even reconsider your own life choices, "21 Truths About Love" is a must-read. It's a celebration of the imperfect, the messy, and the utterly beautiful reality of love, family, and the ongoing quest to find meaning in an often-absurd world. This paperback edition from Piatkus, spanning 352 pages, is perfect for curling up with on a cozy evening. Order your copy today and discover the surprising power of 21 truths.