The What-If Guy
by Taylor Wilshire
Published by Nautilus Press
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Reviewed by Yuka Mizushima
Ryley McKenna is young, pretty and becoming successful as a corporate salesperson. Now that her career is set, she is ready for love! However, Ryley is quickly learning that you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet Prince Charming.
She dates Hank who seems wonderful but keeps a lot of secrets from her. She also dates Richard. Ryley is about the only person who finds Richard charming. After repeatedly getting her heart broken and her confidence crushed, Ryley decides to get a new attitude and focus on her career. Before long, she is struggling to maintain a balance between her professional life and her personal life. She is having trouble getting over a past boyfriend, convinced that he was her soul mate--her "What-If Guy."
Her best friend, Sarah, gives her a book called A Course in Miracles. Ryley is doubtful that this book will help but she reads a few pages when she can. Ryley begins to change her perspective and her situation. In finding inner peace and balance, she becomes happier and more open to the opportunities that come her way.
Wilshire's debut novel is funny and realistic. I really enjoyed her sense of humor. I was giggling as I read about Ryley and Sarah getting ready for a party. She was able to capture the excitement, anticipation and zaniness of dating. I could also relate to Ryley--it's hard to juggle work, friends and love. Ryley was able to find inspiration and achieve a balance.
Like most of us, Ryley has a hard time letting go of the past. She learns that if she clings too hard to the past, she would miss all the possibilities that are happening now.
Armchair Interviews says Chick Lit with a twist of spirituality. Ryley learns it's possible to have it all: relationships, a career and inner peace.