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My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating
It’s hard to prove Mom wrong when she’s found Mr. Right...
Dumped by his boyfriend and stuck in an unfulfilling job, jaded NYC ghostwriter Sam Carmichael can’t be more miserable. Until the eve of his thirty-fifth birthday when his mother, Gloria, arrives with a present from the past.
Years ago, exasperated by Gloria’s matchmaking, Sam promised his mother that if he wasn’t coupled up by thirty-five, he would do whatever she wanted to find a boyfriend. Sam was joking; his mother was not.
Gloria swoops in creating new dating profiles, re-doing his wardrobe, and setting him up with a parade of bizarre matches. When his mom zeros in on sexy and passionate artist, Finn Montgomery, Sam intends to prove her wrong and stop her interfering for good. But when it comes to finding love, does mother really know best?
Readers love Philip William Stover's funny, heartwarming, inclusive
‘What a gorgeous, gorgeous book. Funny, warm and touching.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘I loved it!... The story is warm and affectionate and includes lots of diverse characters.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘The author's love for New York shines through. Warm and witty with some laugh out loud moments, this is a book I'll read again.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘This book made my heart sing. If you’re a fan of rom-coms and makeovers…then this book will probably make your heart sing, too.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘A wonderful Rom Com packed with characters from the LGBTQIA+ Community and is the epitome of a feel good read!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘A heartwarming little romance book…The drag queens steal the show.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
Dumped by his boyfriend and stuck in an unfulfilling job, jaded NYC ghostwriter Sam Carmichael can’t be more miserable. Until the eve of his thirty-fifth birthday when his mother, Gloria, arrives with a present from the past.
Years ago, exasperated by Gloria’s matchmaking, Sam promised his mother that if he wasn’t coupled up by thirty-five, he would do whatever she wanted to find a boyfriend. Sam was joking; his mother was not.
Gloria swoops in creating new dating profiles, re-doing his wardrobe, and setting him up with a parade of bizarre matches. When his mom zeros in on sexy and passionate artist, Finn Montgomery, Sam intends to prove her wrong and stop her interfering for good. But when it comes to finding love, does mother really know best?
Readers love Philip William Stover's funny, heartwarming, inclusive
‘What a gorgeous, gorgeous book. Funny, warm and touching.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘I loved it!... The story is warm and affectionate and includes lots of diverse characters.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘The author's love for New York shines through. Warm and witty with some laugh out loud moments, this is a book I'll read again.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘This book made my heart sing. If you’re a fan of rom-coms and makeovers…then this book will probably make your heart sing, too.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘A wonderful Rom Com packed with characters from the LGBTQIA+ Community and is the epitome of a feel good read!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
‘A heartwarming little romance book…The drag queens steal the show.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
- GenresAdult
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 24, 2024
About the author
Philip William Stover
6 books113 followersPhilip William Stover splits his time between Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and New York City. He has an MFA in writing and is a clinical professor at New York University.
As a freelance journalist, his essays and reviews have appeared in Newsday, the Forward, the Tony Awards, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Houston Chronicle, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and other national publications. For many years he ghosted for an international best-selling women’s fiction author. He has published multiple middle-grade novels for Simon & Schuster and was the American Theater critic for About.com.
He grew up tearing the covers off the romance novels he devoured so he wouldn’t get teased at school. Now he enjoys traveling the world with his husband of over twenty years and would never consider defacing any of the books he loves.
He can be found on social media as Philip William Stover.
Adult fiction:
https://www.philipwilliamstover.com
Middle-grade fiction:
http://www.tweenink.com
As a freelance journalist, his essays and reviews have appeared in Newsday, the Forward, the Tony Awards, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Houston Chronicle, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and other national publications. For many years he ghosted for an international best-selling women’s fiction author. He has published multiple middle-grade novels for Simon & Schuster and was the American Theater critic for About.com.
He grew up tearing the covers off the romance novels he devoured so he wouldn’t get teased at school. Now he enjoys traveling the world with his husband of over twenty years and would never consider defacing any of the books he loves.
He can be found on social media as Philip William Stover.
Adult fiction:
https://www.philipwilliamstover.com
Middle-grade fiction:
http://www.tweenink.com
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
September 14, 2024
Freud would have a field day reading this
September 18, 2024
A new author to me, Philip William Stover offers a m34m romcom where an overbearing mother decided whom her son should date, in his latest release, My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating. I enjoyed parts of the book and I liked the main character. But his mother was just too over-the-top with her intimate questions and knowledge about her son's sex life and the LGBTQ realm. It made for squirmy and hilarious moments, but as a result, it also made me feel too removed from Sam as a man searching for love. I think the humor in this occasion made me unable to see any heat and feel the same desire to see him happily coupled up. But the story was interesting, and the dialog had some great moments. Slow in some areas, a bit of excess in the middle. I ended up with an average rating but I'd definitely read another book to see if it's just the one novel and overall difference in author/reader style. Give it a chance tho - lots of strong moments.
September 9, 2024
This is what I want from romantic novels!
I really connected to Sam, his struggles and his personality and his love for all things classical Hollywood. His relationship with Paul was very recognizable and his romance with Finn was beautifully built up.
Reading this book felt like a warm hug - like a breath of fresh air. It was so nice to read a queer love story that was not YA, and that grappled with real questions of what community means and what it means to be oneself.
Omar, Glory, Kai and co were a delightful bunch of side characters and despite it being the soft, comforting world of a rom-com, it fely very real. Glory reminded me of a mix of the Golden Girls and the mum from Queer as Folk. I also really enjoyed the elements of craft and arts that queer communities can really thrive in.
Some might say this book does hit you over the head with social justice and queer activism but quite frankly, I think it's something we can and should revel in, especially now.
Thank you Hera and Netgalley for the digital ARC.
I really connected to Sam, his struggles and his personality and his love for all things classical Hollywood. His relationship with Paul was very recognizable and his romance with Finn was beautifully built up.
Reading this book felt like a warm hug - like a breath of fresh air. It was so nice to read a queer love story that was not YA, and that grappled with real questions of what community means and what it means to be oneself.
Omar, Glory, Kai and co were a delightful bunch of side characters and despite it being the soft, comforting world of a rom-com, it fely very real. Glory reminded me of a mix of the Golden Girls and the mum from Queer as Folk. I also really enjoyed the elements of craft and arts that queer communities can really thrive in.
Some might say this book does hit you over the head with social justice and queer activism but quite frankly, I think it's something we can and should revel in, especially now.
Thank you Hera and Netgalley for the digital ARC.
September 10, 2024
😂✨ My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating by Philip William Stover ✨😂
A heartwarming and hilarious romantic comedy that will make you laugh out loud and melt your heart!
🌟✨ Review: ✨🌟
My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating by Philip William Stover is a delightful rom-com that blends family meddling, quirky humor, and tender romance in a way that keeps you thoroughly entertained. The protagonist finds himself navigating his love life under the ever-watchful eye—and absurd dating rules—of his well-meaning but overbearing mother. Add in a swoon-worthy romantic interest and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, and you’ve got a recipe for a lighthearted, feel-good read.
Stover’s writing is witty and engaging, with characters who are charmingly flawed and relatable. The dynamic between the protagonist and his mother is both endearing and exasperating, as she insists on applying her “rules” to his dating life, leading to plenty of comedic misadventures. The romance itself is sweet and slow-burn, building as the characters get to know each other beyond the surface.
This is a rom-com with heart, perfect for readers who enjoy stories about love, family, and finding your own path.
🌟 Highlights: 🌟
Hilarious Premise: The absurd dating rules imposed by the protagonist’s mother add a layer of comedy and chaos.
Sweet Romance: The slow-burn romance is tender and heartwarming, making you root for the characters.
Family Dynamics: The relationship between the protagonist and his mother is a central part of the story, providing both humor and heart.
💌 Favorite Quote:
"Sometimes, the best rule to follow is the one you make for yourself." - A perfect reflection of the book’s theme about charting your own course in love.
🌟 Rating: 🌟
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating is a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy with plenty of heart. Philip William Stover delivers a charming and funny story about love, family, and finding your way—while navigating a few ridiculous rules along the way!
See more reviews at:
Casla Reads
---
*I received this book through NetGalley as an ARC reader. This will not in any way affect my thoughts or opinions on the book.*
A heartwarming and hilarious romantic comedy that will make you laugh out loud and melt your heart!
🌟✨ Review: ✨🌟
My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating by Philip William Stover is a delightful rom-com that blends family meddling, quirky humor, and tender romance in a way that keeps you thoroughly entertained. The protagonist finds himself navigating his love life under the ever-watchful eye—and absurd dating rules—of his well-meaning but overbearing mother. Add in a swoon-worthy romantic interest and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, and you’ve got a recipe for a lighthearted, feel-good read.
Stover’s writing is witty and engaging, with characters who are charmingly flawed and relatable. The dynamic between the protagonist and his mother is both endearing and exasperating, as she insists on applying her “rules” to his dating life, leading to plenty of comedic misadventures. The romance itself is sweet and slow-burn, building as the characters get to know each other beyond the surface.
This is a rom-com with heart, perfect for readers who enjoy stories about love, family, and finding your own path.
🌟 Highlights: 🌟
Hilarious Premise: The absurd dating rules imposed by the protagonist’s mother add a layer of comedy and chaos.
Sweet Romance: The slow-burn romance is tender and heartwarming, making you root for the characters.
Family Dynamics: The relationship between the protagonist and his mother is a central part of the story, providing both humor and heart.
💌 Favorite Quote:
"Sometimes, the best rule to follow is the one you make for yourself." - A perfect reflection of the book’s theme about charting your own course in love.
🌟 Rating: 🌟
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating is a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy with plenty of heart. Philip William Stover delivers a charming and funny story about love, family, and finding your way—while navigating a few ridiculous rules along the way!
See more reviews at:
Casla Reads
---
*I received this book through NetGalley as an ARC reader. This will not in any way affect my thoughts or opinions on the book.*
September 18, 2024
I just finished My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating, and I have a huge smile on my face. I'm not going to lie. It took me a hot minute to get into a rhythm with this book. Well, in reality, I never found my flow. Maybe I was in a reading slump, but I had to push myself to read it every day, something that doesn't usually happen. However, I am so glad that I read it all the way through.
It's categorized as a romance, but it's a romance with your own identity. Yes, there is a couple that you root for throughout the whole story, and they do end up finding their HEA in the end, but the book is so much more than that.
This book is about self-acceptance and self-confidence. It's about putting yourself out there and believing in what you can do and who you can be. Sam, our MC, is surrounded by a group of people who all see his worth, how wonderful he is, and the potential he has to achieve his dreams. Sam, unfortunately, is the only one who doesn't see it, and he doesn't believe he deserves it. Until you can learn to love yourself, you can't expect anyone else to love you.
Gloria, or Glory, is a wonderful mother. I had so many laugh-out-louds (literally snorting while I was laughing) because of her. First off, she is so authentic. She is that mother that we all know, hopefully all have. There are so many relatable things that she says and does. She is also a FIERCE advocate for equality and acceptance. At the end of the day, Sam is her son and she loves him unconditionally. She does everything she can to demonstrate and advocate for who he is, the right to love whoever you want, without judgement. Not only is she an advocate for the LGBTQA+, but she is also an ally.
I recommend this book to anyone who needs a reminder to love themselves and accept others or just wants a good laugh.
Thank you to NetGalley, Hera, and Canelo Publishing, and Philip William Stover for the opportunity to read this ARC copy.
It's categorized as a romance, but it's a romance with your own identity. Yes, there is a couple that you root for throughout the whole story, and they do end up finding their HEA in the end, but the book is so much more than that.
This book is about self-acceptance and self-confidence. It's about putting yourself out there and believing in what you can do and who you can be. Sam, our MC, is surrounded by a group of people who all see his worth, how wonderful he is, and the potential he has to achieve his dreams. Sam, unfortunately, is the only one who doesn't see it, and he doesn't believe he deserves it. Until you can learn to love yourself, you can't expect anyone else to love you.
Gloria, or Glory, is a wonderful mother. I had so many laugh-out-louds (literally snorting while I was laughing) because of her. First off, she is so authentic. She is that mother that we all know, hopefully all have. There are so many relatable things that she says and does. She is also a FIERCE advocate for equality and acceptance. At the end of the day, Sam is her son and she loves him unconditionally. She does everything she can to demonstrate and advocate for who he is, the right to love whoever you want, without judgement. Not only is she an advocate for the LGBTQA+, but she is also an ally.
I recommend this book to anyone who needs a reminder to love themselves and accept others or just wants a good laugh.
Thank you to NetGalley, Hera, and Canelo Publishing, and Philip William Stover for the opportunity to read this ARC copy.
September 9, 2024
I've been having some misses with ARCs lately, and I'm glad to say this wasn't one of them. Yes, the rom-com OTT-ness got to be a bit much for me at times, and I wanted to pitch Sam's mom out the window. But when this book was good, it was really, really good.
I highlighted several paragraphs in one scene, because they were so powerful. I'm not going to type them all in here. ;) But: "'Bragging is showing off to people or over-inflating yourself. This is not bragging. This is believing in yourself. There's a difference.'" That scene was gold.
The use of (some) British punctuation styles in a book set in New York was a bit odd, and there were plenty of typos that I hope will be fixed before publication. But what else is new?
If you can handle rom-com antics, I don't think you'll go wrong with this story.
My thanks to the publisher/NetGalley for an advance copy of this book.
I highlighted several paragraphs in one scene, because they were so powerful. I'm not going to type them all in here. ;) But: "'Bragging is showing off to people or over-inflating yourself. This is not bragging. This is believing in yourself. There's a difference.'" That scene was gold.
The use of (some) British punctuation styles in a book set in New York was a bit odd, and there were plenty of typos that I hope will be fixed before publication. But what else is new?
If you can handle rom-com antics, I don't think you'll go wrong with this story.
My thanks to the publisher/NetGalley for an advance copy of this book.
September 15, 2024
"My Mother's Ridiculous Rules for Dating" by Philip William Stover is an absolute joy—a rom-com that blends family drama, quirky humor, and heartfelt romance into a captivating read.
Sam’s journey of personal growth, supported by his friends and his well-meaning mother, is both touching and hilarious. His navigation of a difficult past relationship, aided by a swoon-worthy love interest, adds a delightful blend of warmth and humor.
Although the mother’s antics might occasionally be over-the-top and make you roll your eyes, she perfectly captures the essence of a meddling mom who genuinely wants the best for her son. Her relentless online research to support her queer son and his community adds a hilarious and endearing touch to her character.
What really stood out to me was the diverse group of characters around Sam, which many gay men will find both familiar and relatable.
Overall, this book is a wonderful mix of comedy and heart, showcasing how much growth is possible with a solid support system—if you’re willing to embrace it and believe in yourself.
Sam’s journey of personal growth, supported by his friends and his well-meaning mother, is both touching and hilarious. His navigation of a difficult past relationship, aided by a swoon-worthy love interest, adds a delightful blend of warmth and humor.
Although the mother’s antics might occasionally be over-the-top and make you roll your eyes, she perfectly captures the essence of a meddling mom who genuinely wants the best for her son. Her relentless online research to support her queer son and his community adds a hilarious and endearing touch to her character.
What really stood out to me was the diverse group of characters around Sam, which many gay men will find both familiar and relatable.
Overall, this book is a wonderful mix of comedy and heart, showcasing how much growth is possible with a solid support system—if you’re willing to embrace it and believe in yourself.
September 17, 2024
What a heartwarming, wonderful read! Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews