Mindy Burbidge Strunk’s The Disasters of Dating is a delightful exploration of modern romance, wrapped in a narrative that is both humorous and heartfelt. At its core, the novel is a story about self-discovery, the unpredictability of love, and the courage to embrace one's true self in a world that often demands conformity. Strunk skillfully weaves these themes into a narrative that is as engaging as it is relatable.

The protagonist, who runs an airport newsstand, is a character that many readers will find endearing and familiar. Her life is a juxtaposition of the mundane and the extraordinary. While she sells “overpriced snacks and gossip mags” to travelers, she harbors dreams of adventure and a life beyond the confines of her kiosk. This duality is a central theme in the novel, as it explores the tension between the life we live and the life we aspire to lead. The protagonist's journey is one of self-acceptance and the realization that her quirks and passions are not liabilities but assets.

Strunk’s portrayal of the protagonist is both vivid and nuanced. She is described as “a little too much—too bright, too weird, too into ‘hippie things’,” yet it is precisely these qualities that make her a compelling character. Her vibrant personality is a refreshing departure from the often one-dimensional portrayals of women in romance novels. She is not just a love interest; she is a fully realized character with her own dreams, insecurities, and aspirations.

The introduction of Keaton, the “polished, put-together businessman,” adds an intriguing dynamic to the story. Keaton is not the typical romantic hero; he is attentive, genuinely interested in the protagonist’s ideas, and, most importantly, he listens. Their relationship is marked by a series of humorous and awkward encounters, including a “disastrous first date” that is both cringe-worthy and endearing. Strunk uses these moments to highlight the unpredictability of love and the importance of perseverance in the face of setbacks.

One of the novel’s most compelling elements is the mystery texter subplot. This narrative device adds an element of suspense and intrigue, as the protagonist finds herself drawn to a stranger she has never met but feels an inexplicable connection with. The texter represents the unknown and the allure of the road not taken. This subplot is a clever commentary on the nature of modern communication and the ways in which technology can both connect and isolate us.

The novel’s exploration of the protagonist’s internal conflict—between the “guy I should want” and the one “I can’t stop thinking about”—is a relatable dilemma that many readers will recognize. Strunk captures the essence of this struggle with sensitivity and insight, illustrating the complexities of love and the difficulty of making choices that align with one’s true self.

Strunk’s writing is characterized by its wit and warmth. Her dialogue is sharp and often laugh-out-loud funny, yet she never sacrifices depth for humor. The novel’s pacing is brisk, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. Strunk’s ability to balance humor with emotional depth is reminiscent of authors like Sophie Kinsella and Rainbow Rowell, who similarly excel at crafting stories that are both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

In terms of character development, Strunk excels at creating a cast of supporting characters who are as memorable as the protagonist. The protagonist’s cousins, who suspect the mystery texter of “phishing,” add a layer of familial warmth and humor to the story. Their skepticism and protectiveness provide a counterbalance to the protagonist’s optimism and open-heartedness.

Overall, The Disasters of Dating is a charming and insightful exploration of love, identity, and the courage to embrace one’s true self. Strunk’s novel is a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of following one’s heart, even when the path is uncertain. It is a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt torn between the life they have and the life they dream of.

For readers who enjoy contemporary romance with a touch of humor and a dash of mystery, The Disasters of Dating is a must-read. Strunk’s novel is a delightful reminder that love, like life, is full of surprises, and sometimes the greatest adventures are the ones we never planned.