The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston is a captivating novel that intertwines romance and the complexities of time. The story follows Clementine, an overworked book publicist who has meticulously planned her future but encounters an unexpected twist when she falls in love with her charming temporary roommate. The catch? He lived seven years in the past.
Set against the backdrop of a New York apartment filled with echoes of the past, this enchanting tale explores themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of dreams. As Clementine grapples with the fallout from a life-altering event, she forms a plan to safeguard her heart while chasing the metaphorical moon, inspired by her late aunt’s wisdom. However, her carefully constructed walls begin to crumble when she meets a kind-hearted man from a bygone era, a connection that forces her to confront her fears and desires.
Poston’s witty and heartfelt narrative captures the essence of love transcending time, reminding readers that while love may not be bound by time, it is intricately tied to timing. With accolades from notable sources and recognition as a New York Public Library Best Book of 2023, The Seven Year Slip promises to be a poignant and enchanting read for anyone who believes in the magic of love and second chances.
In the Seven Year Slip, Ashley Poston masterfully blends romance, magical realism, and emotional depth to create a captivating narrative that resonates with readers. Through Clementine and Felix’s journey, the novel explores the complexities of love, the challenges of grief, and the enduring power of dreams. With its rich character development and enchanting storyline, this novel is a celebration of the beauty of connection, even amidst the constraints of time.
Book Summary Contents
The Seven Year Slip A Novel by Ashley Poston Book Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Berkley (June 27, 2023) |
| Language | English |
| Paperback | 368 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 059333650X |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0593336502 |
| Item Weight | 11.2 ounces |
The Seven Year Slip A Novel by Ashley Poston Quotes
- There was a gap between early twenties and late twenties that only people existing in bodies in their late twenties understood. You could still fight god, but you’d have to ice your knees afterward.
- I didn’t find out who I wanted to be until I was almost 40. You have to try on a lot of shoes until you find some you like walking in. Never apologize for that.
- Really. All my life, I’ve wanted to make a place that felt comfortable—it’s what I always worked toward. A place where people can come, and eat perfect meals with their granddads, and feel at home. This Hyacinth is me. Not the me from seven years ago, not the press release version of me—but me. And you helped me remember that, Lemon.
- You will be happiest when you’re on your own adventure. Not Analea’s, not whoever you’re dating, not everyone who thinks you should do what you’re supposed to do-yours.
- Close your eyes,” he said as we got out of the Uber in front of his restaurant.
“Why? Are you going to kidnap me?” I replied, and he rolled his eyes and put his hands over my eyes so I wouldn’t look. “Do you need my safe word? It’s sassafras.- That was love, wasn’t it? It wasn’t just a quick drop—it was falling, over and over again, for your person. It was falling as they became new people. It was learning how to exist with every new breath. It was uncertain and it was undeniably hard, and it wasn’t something you could plan for.
- I loved how a book, a story, a set of words in a sentence organized in the exact right order, made you miss places you’ve never visited, and people you’ve never met.
- Isn’t it strange how the world works sometimes? It’s never a matter of time, but a matter of timing.
- You only live once. And if you do it right, once is all you need.
- You never commit a mundane moment to memory, thinking it’ll be the last time you’ll hear their voice, or see their smile, or smell their perfume. Your head never remembers the things your heart wants to in hindsight.
- Lost in a city you’ve lived in for most of your life? Pretend you’re a tourist.
- The kind of good that stuck to your bones, thick and warm, and coated your soul in golden light.
- Straitlaced and anxious, a broken and horrible mess with walls so high I’d forgotten what I’d blocked off on the other side.
- I loved the woman I met in apartment B4, but I think I love you a little bit more.
- Eventually, something began to come of my painting. I lost myself in the colors, the whimsical way they bled together. I couldn’t remember the last time I had actually let myself paint.
- She only ever had two rules in this apartment—one, always take your shoes off by the door. And two: never fall in love.
The Seven Year Slip A Novel by Ashley Poston Table Of Contents
- Cover
- Praise for Ashley Poston
- Other Titles by Ashley Poston
- Title Page
- Copyright
- Dedication
- A Beginning: My Darling Clementine
Chapters:
- Publishers Lunch
- Strauss & Adder
- Home Sweet Home
- Strangers in a Strange Time
- The Time-Share
- Second Chances
- Better Acquainted
- Romance in Chocolate
- First Impressions
- (Sub)liminal Spaces
- Burn, Baby, Burn
- The Moon and More
- Back to the Grind
- Seven Years Too Late
- Timeless
- Life Goes On
- Lost and Found
- Another You
- The Proposal
- Berried Alive
- Broken Doors
- Unsolicited Advice
- Main Course of Action
- An Unwanted Gift
- Best in Show
- Washington Square Arch
- Yo Mama’s Fajitas
- Time Well-Traveled
- Bad Timing
- Way Back When
- Letters to the Dead
- Second and Final Bid
- What Never Was
- All Too Well
- Two Weeks’ Notice
- Tourist Season
- The Last Goodbye
- Ghosts
- I Knew You When
- Chase the Moon
- Epilogue: And We Stay
- Acknowledgments
- Readers Guide
- Author’s Note
- Discussion Questions
- Book Pairings for The Seven Year Slip
- About the Author
The Seven Year Slip A Novel by Ashley Poston Book Summary
The Seven Year Slip is a contemporary romance novel infused with elements of magical realism. It tells the story of Clementine, an overworked book publicist grappling with grief and the complexities of love. The narrative explores themes of time, loss, and the unexpected ways in which connections can transcend time.
Setting the Scene
Clementine has been living in her late aunt’s New York City apartment, a place filled with memories and remnants of the past. After a life-altering event—the loss of her aunt—she struggles to find her footing in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. Despite her professional success in the publishing industry, her personal life is in disarray. Clementine has built walls around her heart, determined to avoid emotional vulnerability.
To cope, she has developed a plan to keep herself safe: work hard, find someone decent to love, and remember to chase the moon—a metaphor inspired by her aunt’s encouragement to pursue big dreams.
A Mysterious Encounter
One day, Clementine discovers a strange man in her kitchen. His name is Felix, and he is charming, kind, and has a Southern drawl that draws her in. They share an instant connection, and Clementine finds herself captivated by his warmth and genuine nature. However, the initial thrill of their budding relationship is quickly overshadowed by a shocking revelation: Felix lives seven years in the past.
Clementine learns that her aunt’s apartment is a “pinch in time,” a magical space where moments blend and allow for unique encounters. While she is living in 2023, Felix is stuck in 2016. This twist creates a complex dynamic between them, as they navigate the challenges of a love that defies the constraints of time.
The Struggle of Time and Connection
As Clementine and Felix’s relationship develops, they face the inherent difficulties of their situation. Clementine is torn between her growing feelings for Felix and the knowledge that he is not part of her present. She grapples with the fear of falling in love with someone who, quite literally, cannot be in her life in the same way that she is in his.
The story highlights how their connection deepens through shared moments, conversations, and dreams. Despite the obstacles, they find solace in each other’s company, learning about one another’s lives and aspirations. However, Clementine is haunted by the reality of their circumstances; her heart longs for a future with Felix, yet she is aware that their time together is limited.
Themes of Grief and Healing
At its core, The Seven Year Slip delves into themes of grief and healing. Clementine’s journey is not just about navigating a romantic relationship; it’s also about confronting her loss and learning how to let go. The memory of her aunt serves as both a guiding light and a reminder of the fragility of life.
As Clementine opens her heart to Felix, she begins to understand that love is not merely about physical presence; it’s also about the impact someone can have on your life. Their relationship challenges her to embrace vulnerability and find strength in emotional connections, even when faced with the impermanence of those moments.
The Power of Dreams and Aspirations
Another significant theme in the novel is the importance of dreams and aspirations. Clementine’s aunt instilled in her the belief that chasing the moon—pursuing one’s dreams—is essential for a fulfilling life. This metaphor resonates throughout the story as Clementine learns to dream again, inspired by her relationship with Felix.
Felix, too, is a dreamer, and his influence encourages Clementine to reflect on her ambitions. Together, they navigate the challenges of their respective lives, sharing hopes and fears that bridge the gap between their different timelines.
Confronting Reality
As the story progresses, the reality of their situation becomes more complex. Clementine is faced with difficult choices as she navigates her feelings for Felix and the implications of their relationship. Their bond, while profound, is inherently fragile, and she struggles to reconcile her love for him with the understanding that he cannot remain in her life.
The tension escalates as Clementine contemplates whether to fully embrace her feelings for Felix, knowing that doing so could lead to heartbreak. The narrative builds toward a climax that forces both characters to confront their fears and desires, ultimately leading to a powerful moment of decision.
The Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Discovery
The Seven Year Slip culminates in a journey of self-discovery for both Clementine and Felix. They learn that love transcends time and that the connections forged through genuine understanding and empathy can leave lasting impressions on the heart, regardless of the circumstances.
Clementine’s evolution throughout the novel is significant; she learns to embrace the beauty of the present moment and the importance of following her heart. The experience challenges her to redefine her understanding of love and loss, allowing her to step into a new chapter of her life.
As the story closes, readers are left with a sense of hope and the understanding that even in the face of uncertainty, love has the power to heal and transform. The Seven Year Slip is a poignant reminder that while time may separate us, the connections we forge can echo through the years, shaping our journeys in unexpected ways.
About the Author: Ashley Poston
Ashley Poston is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author known for her captivating novels, including The Dead Romantics, The Seven Year Slip, and A Novel Love Story. In addition to these titles, she has penned over half a dozen young adult novels.
Poston earned her BA in English from the University of South Carolina and began her career in the publishing industry, where she developed and executed marketing strategies for various novels. Now a full-time writer, she resides in her charming grey house, where she dotes on her three cats. When she’s not writing, Ashley divides her time between South Carolina and New York, exploring the many bookstores in between.
Connect with Ashley on Twitter at @ashposton, and discover more about her and her work at www.ashposton.com.
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