One Week Girlfriend (One Week Girlfriend, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Monica Murphy's "One Week Girlfriend" introduces us to Garrett Hayes, a cynical and guarded college student grappling with the recent death of his brother. He's withdrawn and emotionally unavailable, preferring solitude to the complexities of relationships. His carefully constructed walls crumble when he meets the vibrant and unconventional London Miller. London is everything Garrett isn't – outgoing, confident, and fiercely independent. She's also openly grieving the loss of her own mother.

Their paths collide unexpectedly when London, impulsive and in need of a date for her best friend's wedding, proposes a unique arrangement: a one-week "girlfriend" contract. Garrett, initially hesitant, agrees to the temporary relationship, seeing it as a harmless way to fulfill a social obligation. The contract outlines the parameters of their week-long charade, explicitly stating no emotional attachments or expectations beyond superficial companionship.

Despite their initial agreement to keep things strictly platonic, a powerful attraction ignites between Garrett and London. Their shared experience of grief, though manifesting differently, creates an unexpected bond. They find solace and comfort in each other's company, discovering a genuine connection that transcends the artificial boundaries of their contract. Through carefully planned dates and shared experiences, they gradually peel back each other's emotional defenses. London's warmth and optimism help Garrett confront his grief and begin the healing process, while Garrett's quiet strength and unwavering support provide London with a sense of security she hasn't felt since her mother's passing.

However, their budding romance is fraught with challenges. The "one-week" limitation looms large, forcing them to confront the possibility of their relationship ending abruptly. As their connection deepens, the artificial nature of their arrangement feels increasingly restrictive. Garrett struggles with his fear of intimacy and vulnerability, while London grapples with the fear of heartbreak and rejection. The novel explores the complexities of grief, the healing power of connection, and the difficulty of letting go.

The climax of the story sees the week ending, forcing them to confront their feelings. Their temporary contract expires, leaving Garrett and London to decide whether their connection was simply a fleeting moment or the start of something deeper and more meaningful. The ending leaves the reader with a sense of hope and possibility, suggesting that despite the pain and uncertainty, the connection between Garrett and London holds the potential for a lasting relationship. The overarching theme is the healing power of love and connection, even in the face of profound loss and personal struggles, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and acceptance in forging genuine relationships.