It is 1997 in Boston. The main character, Casey Peabody, is grieving over her mother’s untimely death. Casey has spent six years writing a novel. When Writers & Lovers begins she is barely making a living working at a popular upscale restaurant. While grieving, worrying about her health and finances and trying to finish her book, Casey must make a decision regarding two men who are in love with her.

Although Writers & Lovers is the prequel to Heart the Lover, both novels are enjoyable read in any order. I read Heart the Lover first and was thoroughly engaged in both works. In both novels Lily King writes about realistic characters with relatable problems, and they are fine reads for women of any age.