Book blogger recommends 'Seven Years of You and Me' for post-work escape

Book blogger Mariann Vendelin has recommended Ashley Poston's "Seven Years of You and Me" as an ideal read for unwinding after a demanding workday. The novel is described as a time-traveling love story that explores themes of self-discovery and coping with grief, enhanced by a touch of magic.

The story is set in contemporary Manhattan, New York, where Clementine's aunt used to tell tales of a magical apartment. Clementine, having grown up and lost her aunt and her belief in magic, finally experiences it herself. Upon entering the apartment, she finds herself transported seven years into the past, encountering not moving boxes, but a summer renter, the friend's son of her aunt, a 26-year-old aspiring chef.

The apartment repeatedly brings Clementine and the chef together, making it increasingly difficult for her to adhere to the rule: do not fall in love. Clementine is at a career crossroads, with her dream job within reach yet facing doubts. The contrast between the whirlwind travels with her aunt and her current path, alongside this man with clear ambitions, prompts her to question her identity and desires.

To balance the weight of grief and career anxieties, the narrative introduces the time-traveling apartment and a captivating summer romance. The story emphasizes the connection between love and food, with specific mentions of lemon cake and fajitas potentially sparking cravings. Vendelin notes that while the book is a light read, it effectively navigates serious themes, making it a captivating experience that readers might wish to extend.