How Freaking Romantic

Harding’s witty debut stars prickly NYU law student Beatrice Nilsson, who’s devastated to learn that her close college friends Jillian and Josh are acrimoniously divorcing. Her fury lands especially hard on Josh’s high-powered divorce lawyer, Nathan Asher, who seems determined to leave Jillian penniless. After Bea storms into Nate’s office and tells him exactly what she thinks of him, he starts to turn up everywhere—at networking events, teaching as an adjunct at NYU, and even just in passing on the street. Surprising herself, Bea finds herself liking Nate on a personal level, even more so when she learns about his dedication to caring for a sick family member. Still, her six-times-married mother and Jillian and Josh’s breakup have made Bea gun-shy when it comes to romance. Can she suspend her cynicism and take a chance on forever with Nate? Harding convincingly illustrates Bea’s fear of commitment while crafting wonderfully nuanced characters. The zippy plot and endearing love story will leave readers wanting more. (July)