First published 2026
Louise O'Neill thought she had everything figured out at 38. Then her long-term relationship collapsed, destroying the home and future she had carefully constructed. Instead of retreating, O'Neill chose a different path. She decided to say yes to everything and take control of her own story. Her journey led her through dating adventures in Paris, London, and New York. Along the way, she questioned the compromises she had made and the expectations placed on women about relationships and success. O'Neill combines personal storytelling with broader observations about modern womanhood and sexual autonomy. She examines the cultural messages that tell women to settle for less than they want. The book chronicles her process of building confidence, embracing uncertainty, and refusing to make herself smaller for others. O'Neill offers readers permission to want more from their lives and relationships while providing honest insight into the messy, complicated work of starting over.
Genres: essays, autobiography, contemporary, adult, memoir, womens-fiction
Vibes: empowering, honest, intimate, introspective, thought-provoking
Tropes: personal-transformation, second-chance, self-acceptance
Setting: Paris, London, New York
Hardcover