Review of 'Dolly All The Time' by Annabel Monaghan

Review of 'Dolly All The Time' by Annabel Monaghan

Release date: May 26th, 2026

Publisher: G.P. Putnam

REVIEW

Dolly All The Time explodes with later-in-life romantic comedy brilliance! The conversations are clever, witty, catchy and meaningful. Annabel Monaghan is a genius in how relatable she makes her characters. I love how I got to know both Dolly and Stewart gradually as by the end of the story I truly felt connected to this couple on so many levels. They each had some hurdles to overcome and areas in their lives where they needed to mature. But through their experiences and battles, after a few realistic setbacks, they learn to open up and become vulnerable. Yes, vulnerability can expose us to getting hurt but it’s also means becoming real. And through honest evaluations and actions, relationships can become so much better.

First I need to say, after reading one of Annabel’s books last year, I was hooked and bought her other titles. These well written stories are such page turners. They certainly grabbed on to my heart and didn’t let go. I found myself contemplating them after I closed the covers. Yes, that's a mark of a good book and talented author. Her stories made me think, laugh and cry. And when I saw she had another coming out, I knew I had to read Dolly All The Time. Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC as this novel had me feeling everything imaginable.

Dolly is such an amazing character. She is independent, strong, resilient, reliable, multi-skilled, a great problem solver and has a good heart. When she stops to change a tire for handsome wealthy Stewart Whitfield, this role reversal is quite humorous. A woman rescues a man—instead of the other way around. And when he purposes a business deal, she cannot refuse. She needs the funds to replace the roof on her dad’s and brother’s home. So they start their fake dating arrangement. Attending events, meetings and even his parent’s home. He has a lot to learn about relationships to make it look real. Dolly is the one who teaches him but along the way, the real Stewart takes off his protective wrap and begins to live a little and likes it! Maybe his humiliating break up with his last girlfriend has faded into the background? Everyone can see the changes in him and Dolly’s positive influence. But, of course, something is bound to happen that will threaten his new found freedom and happiness. Plus her trust in him and their growing attraction to each other will be challenged.

This is a novel about identity, figuring out who you are and being true to yourself: a lesson particularly Stewart needs to learn. He is a workaholic who strives to be what he thinks his family expects him to be. Does he really want to take over his family’s company as CEO? Is there another role he can play that allows his vision to be exercised? The competition between him and his brother is a fierce one as they scramble for the leading position. But in the end, what does it lead to?

Dolly knows who she is—a caretaker of everyone—including her 13 year old son, her father and special needs brother. She holds down a number of jobs as a kindergarten teacher, an Uber Driver and a call assistant. And then she comes home and works in her father’s fish store (I love it when she adds her cakes and pies!). She has taken care of everyone since her mother left so it is hard for her to rely on someone else to share the load. Does she think she deserves the life Stewart could give her? No. But it is her son who shines the light on the facts and helps her see she is an amazing person who deserves some personal happiness.

In fact, the meeting of Dolly and Stewart is such an important encounter because it becomes the catalyst for change in their lives and in those around them. Just a couple examples: Dolly previously had issues with her sister but through a series of events, things begin to change and new growth happens between them. Stewart and his father have their differences but incidents occur that draw them closer in understanding. These relationships head in a positive direction because Dolly and Stewart meet. This is realistic as we can all think of at least one person we have met who has changed us in one way or another. Chance encounters are more like divine interventions. And often bring some amazing revelations and even personal growth.

Dolly All The Time is brimming with wisdom, charm, passion, fairy-tale sparkle, and so many uplifting moments to cherish. Family is at the heart of this story and rebuilding of relationships. It is also a reminder that people from two different worlds can meet and make it work. And that each has something to teach the other. And together their lives can be richer (as in stronger, sweeter and deeper)!

Yes, this novel has the pretty woman, hard working single mom scenario, rich man meets working class woman, fake dating turns real, etc. but it is so much more. It’s a tribute to out-of-this-world romance, personal development, overcoming fears and family legacy expectations—just to name a few! This enchanting uplifting novel delivers a feel-good happy ending where growth happens in all the characters. There are no pat answers but solid solutions are presented for the Brick and Whitfield family members. The outcomes are glorious for all and made my heart sing. It is a delicious, heart felt, delightful, inspiring novel I won’t forget—ever. 5+⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars

Thanks to G.P Putnam & Netgalley for a review copy.