This is a strong first novel — much better than any other self-published novel I've read (admittedly, I only have a handful of data points). I identified with the protagonist and enjoyed many of the small observational details (it's not densely observed like Nicholson Baker, but there is a witty turn of phrase on most pages). The plot is rather simple and straightforward, which works because the focus is on relationships. I don't usually read this style, but I enjoyed it.