Review: Thirty-Two Going On… Spinster by Becky Monson

Thirty-Two Going On… Spinster
written by Becky Monson
published by Exclusive Publishing

find it here: (affiliate links) Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Goodreads

Why did I pick this book: I did some editing work on this title. After that work was completed, I was asked by the author to review the book. (I received a copy of this book for review purposes. Although I was compensated for the editing work, it in no way affected the outcome of my review. My review is my honest opinion of the book.)

Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy this book. It was a fun read that kept me entertained from beginning to end. There were so many laugh out loud moments.

I think a lot of single women can relate to Julia. Once we reach a certain age, we start to think we will never get married or find “the one.” Sometimes we start throwing around the word “spinster.” I’m not sure how many women would be as dramatic about it as Julia though. But that made it all the more humorous. Beyond that, many of us—spinster bound or not—can probably relate to being stuck in a job we don’t like or want, to wanting something more but being afraid to take that first risky step. Julia experiences a lot of this and we get to hear about her journey. That was one thing I really enjoyed about Thirty-Two Going On… Spinster, the easy conversational style of the narration. I felt like I was sitting with Julia at a bar or on her couch, having a glass of wine, and laughing/gasping/sympathizing with her as she told me what was happening in her life, doing the girl talk thing—much like she did with her sister later in the book.

Her love of baking is evident from the beginning. Just the way she talks about it, you know that’s her true passion. That’s her dream. I also loved reading about Julia’s baked creations. I could smell them, see them, and I wished I could taste them!

I loved Jared from the very beginning. He was so sweet but in such a tough spot. The Dr. Pepper made me say, “AWWWWWW!” Julia’s nickname for him, McManly, I can totally understand. I can’t fault anything about Jared. He was a great character.

The last 100 pages or so really moved for me. I had this stupid, giddy, goofy smile on my face the whole time. I loved the ending. I wanted a little bit more from that ending, but I loved it nonetheless. I’m hoping there will be a sequel. I want more Julia and Jared.

One line stood out for me: “A spinster can have her dreams.” Yes, Julia, she can. And sometimes they do come true!

Would I recommend it: I would recommend this book. It was a fun chick lit read.

Will I read it again: I may read it again.

About the book – from Goodreads: Julia Dorning is a spinster, or at least on the road to becoming one. She has no social life, hates her job, and lives in her parent’s basement with her cat, Charlie.

With the arrival of Jared Moody, the new hire at work, Julia’s mundane life is suddenly turned upside down. Her instant (and totally ridiculous) crush on the new guy causes Julia to finally make some long-overdue changes, in hopes to find a life that includes more than baking and hanging out with Charlie.

But when the biggest and most unexpected change comes, will the new and improved Julia be able to overcome it? Or will she go back to her spinster ways?