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Reviewed by Priya Mathew for Readers' Favorite
The Expiration Date by Leslie McElroy is one of the best contemporary romances I’ve read this year. The story revolves around two scarred individuals who orbit each other’s lives as boss and secretary for three years, but circumstances force them to fake a relationship that grows into something more. Aidan Stone, a Hollywood star, needs a steady girlfriend to restore his ‘good guy’ image. Haley Swann, his personal assistant and aspiring screenwriter, is his choice for the charade. Haley, who dreads attending her best friend’s wedding because her ex-fiancé is the best man, agrees to the pretense on the condition that Aidan attends the wedding as her date. They decide on the terms of their agreement and sign it with a clear expiration date. However, Aidan and Haley soon realize that what they feel for each other is not all fake and that feelings run deep on both sides. Will Aidan be able to break the walls built by Haley around her heart, and convince her that she is his forever?
Leslie McElroy has created a relatable narrative with a side of humor in The Expiration Date. Using vivid descriptions painted a clear picture of the scenes and helped me visualize the environment and the character’s state of mind, adding to the depth of the narrative. The use of humor also helps balance the tension in the plot. Using alternating perspectives between Aidan and Haley, Leslie captures their internal disorientation and provides insight into their vulnerabilities and eventual realization of their feelings. Both Aidan and Haley are characters you could empathize with. There is a definite growth arc for Haley from an insecure secretary who wants to fade into the background to a confident woman. As for Aidan, I’m sure that he would be on the list of top book-boyfriends for many. The supporting characters, including Haley’s friends Rachel and Anna, and the mothers of both the protagonists, add to the plus points. The references to some of my all-time favorite movies added to the appeal. I loved the final chapters and the ending. Leslie McElroy has sensitively explored themes of overcoming past heartbreaks, discovering self-worth, and finding a second chance at love in The Expiration Date.
