Mid-Life Ex Wife: A Diary of Divorce, Online Dating, and Second Chances

Finding herself suddenly single at 50 after her husband left her for another woman, Grey, a columnist for the Guardian (whose columns are the basis for the book), started online dating and quickly went from novice to expert, getting an emotionally turbulent education that she renders with unabashed honesty. Deciding to eschew the advice of friends, she created a lengthy, detailed profile, didn’t lie about her age or her looks, and tried to hold firm to her “take me as I am” attitude. Many of the men Grey encountered were sexist and ageist, carelessly tossing off hurtful, rude, and immature responses before passing her over in hopes of dating women 20 years their junior. She did go on dates with some decent prospects and also fielded offers for no-strings hook-ups with much younger guys. Grey was interested in long-term companionship but discovered that it’s elusive in the online dating arena, where people often seem to be wrong about what makes for lasting relationships; for example, many believe that a spark of attraction . Grey offers much-needed perspective on the struggles of starting over again and dating later in life. Rather than wallow in self-pity or anger, she infuses the highs and lows with welcome warmth and optimism. (May)