My Don't Forget to Write Book Review - No Spoilers
Plot Summary
Don't Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino is a historical romantic comedy set in 1960s Baltimore. The story follows Marilyn Kleinman, a 19-year-old Jewish girl who gets caught in a compromising situation that puts her at odds with her conservative parents. As punishment, she’s sent to spend the summer with her great-aunt Ada in a quiet seaside town. But instead of a boring summer of regret, Marilyn is thrust into a whirlwind of martinis, gossip, and unexpected self-discovery under the bold and hilarious guidance of Aunt Ada. What starts as punishment quickly becomes a turning point in Marilyn’s life, where she learns about independence, love, and what it means to write her own story.
Why I Love This Book
I love how funny and heartfelt this book is. Marilyn is smart, sharp-tongued, and stubborn in all the best ways, and I connected with her right away. I loved watching her grow into herself over the summer. And Aunt Ada? Absolute icon. She’s wild, unapologetic, and full of life. Every scene with her made me laugh or want to cheer. The banter in this book is fast and witty, and the emotional moments sneak up on you when you least expect it. I also love how the story touches on expectations for women—about marriage, sex, and independence—but it never feels heavy. It’s empowering in the best kind of way. I felt like I was right there with Marilyn, falling in love with life again. This book made me laugh, tear up, and want to pick up a pen and start writing my own story.
Who Will Like This Book
If you love coming-of-age stories with strong female leads and a retro setting, you’ll enjoy this. It’s perfect for readers who like Gilmore Girls-style relationships, family drama, and bold, charming side characters who steal the show. If you want a romance that isn’t the whole plot but still sweet and satisfying, this fits. And if you like stories about women figuring out who they are—on their own terms—you’ll get a lot out of this one.
⚠️ Trigger warning: This book includes references to sexual situations, slut-shaming, and emotionally distant parenting. Nothing graphic, but it may hit sensitive topics for some readers.
Tagged As
historical romance, jewish heroine, coming of age, feminist fiction, found family, retro romance, witty banter, family drama, sweet romance, slow burn, open-door romance, bad girl aunt, small town, seaside setting, 1960s, character-driven, standalone, kindle unlimited, indie romance
Steam Level
There are a few open-door scenes, but they’re more about self-discovery than heat. The focus stays on character growth and emotional connection, with just enough steam to feel real.
