Practice Makes Perfect is the second book in the When in Rome series by Sarah Adams, focusing on the humorous and awkward journey of Annie, an introverted woman navigating the challenges of dating. Set in a contemporary romantic backdrop, the story explores themes of love, self-acceptance, and the comedic pitfalls of modern relationships. Annie’s misadventures, including a disastrous first date, highlight her struggles with social anxiety and her quest for connection. This novel is perfect for fans of romantic comedies and those who enjoy relatable characters facing real-life challenges. Readers can expect witty dialogue and heartfelt moments as Annie learns to embrace her true self and find love.

Key Points

  • Follows Annie’s comedic journey through dating mishaps and social anxiety
  • Explores themes of self-acceptance and modern romance
  • Part of the When in Rome series by Sarah Adams
  • Features relatable characters and humorous situations
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I
CHAPTER ONE
Annie
am convinced dating was created by an evil villain to torture humanity.
Dramatic? Not in the least. For introverts like me with social anxiety, the
process of dating is equivalent to waxing your bikini line. Menstrual cramps
on day two of your cycle. An emergency dental procedure you weren’t
expecting—and guess what: they’re fresh out of novocaine.
“Again, I’m so sorry about the beer,” I say to the man sitting across
from me.
“It’s fine,” he says in a clipped way that means it’s absolutely not fine.
This is not going well. Not that it has ever gone well for me in the past,
but this time it really isn’t. I think turning a man off in the first ten minutes
of a date is my new record. Because John, the man sitting across from me
with a sopping-wet, beer-stained polo and khakis from the drink I
accidentally knocked across the table onto his lap, looks ready to bolt. Can’t
blame him.
Why did I think I could do this? It’s been years since I dated, and even
back then I never liked it much. I’m a person who avoids attention at all
costs. Who can’t think of a single thing to say when a man sitting across
from her is intently staring at her.
Again, I ask myself, Why are you here, Annie?!
Oh right. It was the brownie. Well, first it was the realization that even
after opening the flower shop my mom had always dreamed of, the nagging
something-is-missing feeling still pesters me. So I decided it’s time to put a
plan in motion to settle down with my perfect someone—because that’s the
only box left unchecked in my life. And since I’ve been drooling over John
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FAQs

What are Annie's thoughts on dating in 'Practice Makes Perfect'?
Annie views dating as a torturous experience, comparing it to painful and unpleasant situations like waxing or dental procedures. She feels that for introverts like herself, the process is daunting and anxiety-inducing. Despite her social anxiety, she believes that marriage is the missing piece in her life, prompting her to attempt dating again.
What criteria does Annie have for her ideal partner?
Annie has strict criteria for her ideal partner, which include living in Rome, Kentucky, having a stable job, being kind, supportive of her career, and wanting a family. These criteria stem from her desire to replicate the loving marriage her parents had, which she aspires to achieve by the age of twenty-eight.
How does Annie feel during her date with John?
During her date with John, Annie feels extremely anxious and out of place. She struggles to maintain a conversation, often freezing up and feeling overwhelmed by her social anxiety. Her discomfort is heightened when she accidentally spills a drink on him, leading her to believe that the date is going poorly.
What does Annie do to cope with her anxiety during the date?
To cope with her anxiety during the date, Annie tries to focus on conversation topics she enjoys, like her flower shop. However, she often finds herself rambling and feels that her words do not resonate with John. At one point, she even steps away to text her sister-in-law for support, showing her need for reassurance.
What embarrassing moment does Annie experience on her date?
Annie experiences an embarrassing moment when she spills her drink on John, which adds to her feelings of awkwardness and anxiety. This incident is compounded by her subsequent inappropriate comment about wanting to get married, which shocks John and further derails the date.
How does Annie's sister Amelia influence her during the date?
Annie's sister-in-law, Amelia, plays a supportive role during the date by being the only person Annie confides in about her situation. Through text messages, Amelia offers encouragement and suggests that Annie can bail on the date if it becomes too uncomfortable, highlighting the bond and trust between them.