For readers who cherish stories about empowerment and self-love, Emma Gannon’s latest novel Table For One offers a perfect summer escape. The author and podcaster, known for her debut book Olive, has crafted a modern romance that resonates deeply with fans of Bridget Jones-style storytelling.
As the sunny season approaches, many readers look forward to finding that ideal book to accompany their holidays — a companion for poolside or beachside relaxation. Nicola Roy, a keen reader who often struggles to find time for books during busy routines, recently discovered Table For One while preparing for a holiday in Lanzarote. Despite being a recent release, the novel has already garnered glowing reviews online.
On Goodreads, readers praised Table For One for its captivating narrative, with one describing it as “the best book I’ve read in ages.” Roy herself found it impossible to put down and enthusiastically recommended it to her family, who agreed with her glowing assessment.
The novel follows Willow, a woman in her early thirties grappling with an unexpected breakup from her long-term partner — the man she once imagined spending her life with. Their separation is complicated by the fact that they co-founded a company together, adding layers of professional and personal challenges.
Supported by her close friends and Aunt Carla, Willow navigates the emotional turbulence that follows a breakup, while her circle of friends also faces their own struggles. The story captures the complexities of adult life when peers seem to be moving in different directions — some marrying, others starting families, and some forced to start anew.
Unlike a traditional romance, Table For One combines humor with poignant moments. Willow’s journey through the world of online dating brings laughter, but the novel’s core message centers on appreciating what one has rather than longing for what’s lost. It is a celebration of female friendship, self-love, and personal growth.
Willow’s renewed passion for journalism leads her to an unexpected collaboration with a social media influencer championing feminism and the single life, adding another contemporary layer to the narrative.
Table For One promises a thoughtful, entertaining read — ideal for anyone seeking a fresh take on modern relationships this summer.
