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Critical Praise

“The charm of Holmes’ novel comes not only from a genuine friendship between Evvie and Dean that develops into a sweet romance but also from watching amiable Evvie stumble through the process of finding herself in a realistic way. A warm and funny book that will utterly captivate fans of Abbi Waxman and Taylor Jenkins Reid."

—Booklist *starred review*

"Holmes writes with an easy warmth about kind people who are trying their best but messing things up anyway. Characters speak to each other with natural but hilarious dialogue, making their conversations a joy to read. Refreshingly, Evvie and Dean’s relationship hurdles come because they’re adults with complex lives and baggage, not because of easily fixed miscommunications. Although their romance is often front and center, there are many other emotionally affecting storylines, chief among them the changing friendship between Andy and Evvie and Evvie's need to stand up to her family. A warm and lovely romance, perfect for readers of Rainbow Rowell and Louise Miller."

—Kirkus *starred review*

“Holmes’s debut charms…believable, flawed characters are at the heart of this novel. At times deeply emotional yet sometimes extremely humorous, this is a satisfying crowd-pleaser.”

—Publishers Weekly

“EVVIE DRAKE STARTS OVER is a quirky, sweet, and splendid story of a woman coming into her own. Linda Holmes's voice is lively and warm, and the character of Evvie Drake is refreshing in her imperfections. An absolute delight.”

—Taylor Jenkins Reid, author of DAISY JONES & THE SIX

“Charming, hopeful and gently romantic. Evvie Drake is great company.”

—Rainbow Rowell, #1 New York Times bestselling author of ELEANOR & PARK

"I was utterly charmed by EVVIE DRAKE STARTS OVER --- a book that shows us that just because you're broken doesn't mean you can't be put back together again. You’ll want to stay cozied up with these delightful, unique, and incredibly human characters long after you turn the last page."

—Doree Shafrir, author of STARTUP and co-host of Forever35 Podcast

"EVVIE DRAKE STARTS OVER is what happens when great writing, complex and charming characters, and a not-quite-what-you-expect ending collide, making this lovely novel much more than just another romantic comedy. Deeply moving while simultaneously hilarious, you will want to share it with your best friend, but keep your own copy so you can read it again and again."

—Karen White, New York Times bestselling author of DREAMS OF FALLING

“A sweet and sincere grown-up love story. Fans of grounded romance will fall hard for Evvie Drake and Dean Tenney, two broken people who help each other mend. Refreshing and real, with a huge heart. I loved it."

—Georgia Clark, author of THE REGULARS and THE BUCKET LIST

“A witty blend of romance and reflection. Holmes’s writing wraps you in the cozy warmth of small-town Maine and delves into the complexities of the human heart.”

—Helen Hoag, author of THE KISS QUOTIENT