The fact that I'm always skeptical with books like these makes me a very objective reader, and I'm glad for this one, I had enjoyed the book immensely. Its witty, its charming and Alderton had written the column in such a way that it makes it relatable.

Dear Dolly is a collection of letters from her "Agony Aunt Column" in the Sunday Times Lifestyle Magazine. Divided into Seven Parts which focuses entirely on different topics like:
1) Dating
2) Friendship
3) Relationships
4) Family
5) Sex
6) Break-ups & Exes
7) Body & Soul
Each story gives brings the readers in part of a stranger's life, and how Alderton responded to each woes that she had received.

I honestly find that problems and insecurities are a universal thing. I guess that's why romance books written by women is always a popular genre because of the need to validate our inner thoughts and feelings. In this case, Alderton has responded to each and every letter in a way that is not only general, but gives a wider perspective and looking at the problem in a different light and angle. I believe thats what separates the line of books like these to become condescending. Its important to note that at the end of the day, all these people that sent letters to Alderton are real people living real lives, which makes her response important to not cause a catastrophic change in someone's choice. I absolutely love how she handles each topics in a way that makes you feel comforted as well, eventhough its not the problem that you are currently facing.

I feel that humans are filled with woes and insecurities and its sometimes nice to let out with a person that doesn't know you at all, in which Alderton had done a great job in emphatizing with each person and giving advices without passing any judgment. Her response are not only witty, but filled with honesty in which I can sense she put her full heart in writing back to these people in her column. It felt as though reading chapters of advices from a close friend, who will give you advices in a way that will make you reflect and ponder upon the choices that you will make.

This is my first book from Alderton and definitely won't be the last. She provides a voice that makes us feel good about ourselves and not only that, this book serves as a good compilation of different problems that basically can happen to anyone and everyone, at different set of ages. Be it a man or a woman, either you're in your teens or in your sixties, you'll find something that will suit you and helpful to you in this book.

Definitely a read that I would recommend! A good one and I think I will find myself reaching it for it in the future in case I needed it :)

Biggest thank you to Times Reads for providing a copy of the book!

Personal Ratings : 4.25🌟