Rebecca Serle’s “Expiration Dates'' is a poignant exploration of love, fate, and the often unpredictable nature of human relationships. The novel deftly weaves together elements of romance and abstract fiction, offering readers a narrative that is both engaging and contemplative. Serle’s skill in crafting emotionally resonant characters is evident as Daphne navigates her romantic life with the guidance—and sometimes burden—of the mysterious notes.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its exploration of the psychological impact of knowing the expiration date of a relationship. Moreover, Serle’s prose is both expressive and approachable, making the narrative flow seamlessly. At times, the plot feels repetitive, particularly in the middle sections where Daphne’s relationships follow a somewhat predictable pattern. The constant cycle of new love interests and subsequent breakups can feel monotonous, detracting from the overall impact of the narrative. Additionally, while the concept of the expiration dates is fascinating, the novel occasionally relies too heavily on this gimmick, at the expense of deeper character development. Despite these shortcomings, Serle excels in her portrayal of Daphne’s internal struggles and growth.
Rebecca Serle’s exploration of love’s impermanence offers readers a unique perspective on relationships. For those intrigued by the intersection of romance and abstract fiction, "Expiration Dates" provides a worthwhile, if not entirely flawless, literary experience.
We paired “Expiration Dates” with the 2022 Amici Chardonnay Sonoma Coast. This California chardonnay mirrors the vivid L.A. backdrop to Daphne’s journey with its richness, elegance and intensity of ripened fruit like crisp apples and white peach. Clink!
"The problem with love is that it's not enough...But it's nearly impossible to let go of once you've found it."
