What do you think?
Rate this book
180 Days
What happens when what was built to last forever will be demolished in just 180 days? Tomas Araeta and Naomi Curran are nearing their tenth year of marriage-and on the cusp of adopting a child-when Tomas, an aspiring architect, strays with a client. Discovering the infidelity, Naomi files for divorce, but California has a mandatory six-month waiting period before the divorce can be finalized. The clock is Tomas has 180 days to win Naomi back. This kicks off a fraught, painful, and at times humorous and absurd undertaking which will bring them in contact with a reclusive punk-rock star, aloof parents, architectural wonders, coworkers they thought they knew, friends with fragile secrets, and, most importantly, themselves. The infidelity is only the beginning of this journey. And on day 180, Naomi and Tomas will have to answer the question facing every couple in a serious, wonderful, flawed what they each really want, and whether they still see a future together.
409 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2023
2 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 12, 2025
Tomas Araeta and Naomi Curran’s decade-long marriage seems solid—built on shared passions for art and an upcoming adoption of a child. But when Tomas, an aspiring, insecure architect grappling with his self-worth, cheats with a client, the foundation crumbles. Naomi files for divorce, but California’s mandatory cooling-off period forces them into a 180-day countdown to decide if their future together is salvageable. This poignant novel tracks their journey of self-discovery, weaving through quirky characters, personal revelations, and surprising twists.
The narrative structure, reflecting the titular 180 days, hops across time to explore not just Tomas and Naomi’s choices but also the deeper roots of infidelity, forgiveness, and second chances. Tomas’s justification—that he “just fucked an idea”—juxtaposes Naomi’s strong, no-nonsense response as she marches straight to the courthouse.
The characters’ journeys feel authentic. Tomas struggles with his fragile ego, possibly shaped by his father’s success as a neurosurgeon, while Naomi gains clarity about her own parents’ views on love and happiness. Along the way, both encounter a cast of unforgettable characters, from a washed-up punk rock idol (a standout subplot!) and his “host” Lila, to coworkers, friends, and strangers who share their unique perspectives on marriage, fidelity, and ambition.
The novel thrives on its cultural references and memorable quotes like, “Holding a grudge is like taking poison and expecting the other guy to die,” “A mistake is mixing colors and whites in the wash—it’s not putting your penis in another woman’s vagina,” and Schopenhauer’s “talent hits a target no one else can hit; genius hits a target no one else can see.” The San Francisco setting adds an atmospheric backdrop, grounding the emotional drama in a vivid cultural tapestry.
The non-chronological timeline and frequent head-hopping may not be to everyone’s liking, but the story’s rich themes kept us engaged. Despite her questionable friendship with Maya, Naomi’s resilience shines through and earns admiration. Tomas’s self-pity and fragile ego can be frustrating at times, but his eventual growth (despite his father’s unethical help and advice) is satisfying to witness.
180 Days is a heartfelt exploration of betrayal, ambition, and the hard truths that relationships demand. Do you believe in second chances or make-up sex? Is a little sport flirting here and there healthy? Would you sleep with a coworker for revenge? And ultimately, would you forgive and rebuild, or let the past dictate the future? With its mix of heartache and philosophical musings, this is a must-read for anyone who loves complex, character-driven tales of love and betrayal.
The narrative structure, reflecting the titular 180 days, hops across time to explore not just Tomas and Naomi’s choices but also the deeper roots of infidelity, forgiveness, and second chances. Tomas’s justification—that he “just fucked an idea”—juxtaposes Naomi’s strong, no-nonsense response as she marches straight to the courthouse.
The characters’ journeys feel authentic. Tomas struggles with his fragile ego, possibly shaped by his father’s success as a neurosurgeon, while Naomi gains clarity about her own parents’ views on love and happiness. Along the way, both encounter a cast of unforgettable characters, from a washed-up punk rock idol (a standout subplot!) and his “host” Lila, to coworkers, friends, and strangers who share their unique perspectives on marriage, fidelity, and ambition.
The novel thrives on its cultural references and memorable quotes like, “Holding a grudge is like taking poison and expecting the other guy to die,” “A mistake is mixing colors and whites in the wash—it’s not putting your penis in another woman’s vagina,” and Schopenhauer’s “talent hits a target no one else can hit; genius hits a target no one else can see.” The San Francisco setting adds an atmospheric backdrop, grounding the emotional drama in a vivid cultural tapestry.
The non-chronological timeline and frequent head-hopping may not be to everyone’s liking, but the story’s rich themes kept us engaged. Despite her questionable friendship with Maya, Naomi’s resilience shines through and earns admiration. Tomas’s self-pity and fragile ego can be frustrating at times, but his eventual growth (despite his father’s unethical help and advice) is satisfying to witness.
180 Days is a heartfelt exploration of betrayal, ambition, and the hard truths that relationships demand. Do you believe in second chances or make-up sex? Is a little sport flirting here and there healthy? Would you sleep with a coworker for revenge? And ultimately, would you forgive and rebuild, or let the past dictate the future? With its mix of heartache and philosophical musings, this is a must-read for anyone who loves complex, character-driven tales of love and betrayal.
January 25, 2024
180 Days: Love Unraveled
In Alfredo Botello's "180 Days," the author masterfully constructs a narrative around the fragile architecture of marriage. Tomas Araeta and Naomi Curran's decade-long union teeters on the brink after Tomas strays, initiating a divorce with a mandatory six-month waiting period. Botello, known for his Fast & Furious contributions, injects a fresh voice into love, crafting characters entangled in emotional tension, and creating a compelling page-turner. Beyond a typical rocky romance, the story evolves into a profound journey of self-discovery, exploring the complexities of identity, emotional health, and resilience.
Botello's descriptive prowess vividly breathes life into cities, making them integral to the narrative. "180 Days" emerges as a beautifully crafted debut, seamlessly blending humour, heartbreak, and hope. Lalla Rios, an unexpected character, adds charm to the narrative, leaving readers eagerly anticipating its potential film adaptation.
The novel not only captures the essence of everyday struggles but also becomes a mirror reflecting the universal challenges faced by couples. The interplay of cultural nuances and relationships creates a rich tapestry that resonates deeply with readers. As the characters navigate the intricate web of emotions, Botello skillfully weaves a story that goes beyond the conventional, making "180 Days" an immersive experience that lingers in the mind. The author's ability to balance the poignant with the humorous adds layers to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking and enjoyable read for anyone seeking a deeper exploration of the human condition within the context of relationships.
Moreover, the author's clever incorporation of unexpected elements, such as the enigmatic character Lalla Rios, enhances the narrative's depth, providing a refreshing and unpredictable dimension to the story. This multifaceted approach keeps the reader engaged, wondering about the characters' fates and the ultimate resolution of their intricate relationships.
In Alfredo Botello's "180 Days," the author masterfully constructs a narrative around the fragile architecture of marriage. Tomas Araeta and Naomi Curran's decade-long union teeters on the brink after Tomas strays, initiating a divorce with a mandatory six-month waiting period. Botello, known for his Fast & Furious contributions, injects a fresh voice into love, crafting characters entangled in emotional tension, and creating a compelling page-turner. Beyond a typical rocky romance, the story evolves into a profound journey of self-discovery, exploring the complexities of identity, emotional health, and resilience.
Botello's descriptive prowess vividly breathes life into cities, making them integral to the narrative. "180 Days" emerges as a beautifully crafted debut, seamlessly blending humour, heartbreak, and hope. Lalla Rios, an unexpected character, adds charm to the narrative, leaving readers eagerly anticipating its potential film adaptation.
The novel not only captures the essence of everyday struggles but also becomes a mirror reflecting the universal challenges faced by couples. The interplay of cultural nuances and relationships creates a rich tapestry that resonates deeply with readers. As the characters navigate the intricate web of emotions, Botello skillfully weaves a story that goes beyond the conventional, making "180 Days" an immersive experience that lingers in the mind. The author's ability to balance the poignant with the humorous adds layers to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking and enjoyable read for anyone seeking a deeper exploration of the human condition within the context of relationships.
Moreover, the author's clever incorporation of unexpected elements, such as the enigmatic character Lalla Rios, enhances the narrative's depth, providing a refreshing and unpredictable dimension to the story. This multifaceted approach keeps the reader engaged, wondering about the characters' fates and the ultimate resolution of their intricate relationships.
March 12, 2024
180 Days by Alfredo Botello is an insightful exploration of love, betrayal, and the journey towards redemption. The novel centers on Tomas Areata Jr. and Naomi Curran, a married couple of ten years who face the turmoil of infidelity. Tomas, an architect with aspirations, finds himself entangled in an affair with a client, leading Naomi to discover his indiscretion through incriminating messages and consequently file for divorce. The story unfolds against the backdrop of California's mandatory 180-day waiting period for divorce finalization. This 'cooling-off' period ignites a spark in Tomas to salvage what remains of his marriage. In their quest for answers, Naomi and Tomas engage with a diverse array of characters - from family and friends harboring their secrets to coworkers and even an esteemed punk rock singer who, despite his fame, is not immune to human flaws.
Botello masterfully weaves the intricacies of the couple's emotional struggles with elements of punk rock and architecture, creating a rich tapestry that illustrates the complexities of marital life. This narrative journey is not just about uncovering truths; it also delves into the imperfections of celebrated historical figures, adding layers of depth to the story. The novel stands out for its authentic portrayal of the challenges in a marriage, especially when confronted with the possibility of its end. As Tomas and Naomi navigate their 180-day journey of self-discovery and soul-searching, they confront the question of whether their bond is strong enough to withstand the trials they face.
180 Days offers readers a poignant narrative about the fragility and resilience of relationships. Botello's storytelling is emotive and nuanced, making the novel a compelling examination of love, forgiveness, and the strength required to repair broken connections. It's a recommended read for those who are drawn to narratives that skillfully intertwine heartfelt storytelling with the complexities of human relationships and themes of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Botello masterfully weaves the intricacies of the couple's emotional struggles with elements of punk rock and architecture, creating a rich tapestry that illustrates the complexities of marital life. This narrative journey is not just about uncovering truths; it also delves into the imperfections of celebrated historical figures, adding layers of depth to the story. The novel stands out for its authentic portrayal of the challenges in a marriage, especially when confronted with the possibility of its end. As Tomas and Naomi navigate their 180-day journey of self-discovery and soul-searching, they confront the question of whether their bond is strong enough to withstand the trials they face.
180 Days offers readers a poignant narrative about the fragility and resilience of relationships. Botello's storytelling is emotive and nuanced, making the novel a compelling examination of love, forgiveness, and the strength required to repair broken connections. It's a recommended read for those who are drawn to narratives that skillfully intertwine heartfelt storytelling with the complexities of human relationships and themes of forgiveness and reconciliation.
January 31, 2024
Tomas and Naomi celebrate ten years of marriage and are on the verge of adopting a child. Everything was going great until Naomi discovered that To had a fling. After Naomi files for divorce, Tomas discovers he has 180 days before it finalizes, and he loses Naomi forever. Mixed in with humorous elements, the story of Tomas and Naomi’s relationship is a rebuild you'll never forget.
I did not know what was in store for this book. I had some expectations, but this book took them in a whole new direction. These 180 days of rekindling lead to rebuilding self-discovery and an unexpected emotional connection that builds more than romance, but resilience. In a twisted, unique, and unconventional manner, Alfredo Botello constructs a storyline beyond building a romance, but building a new life. We all need to be open to the possibilities life has to offer and who knows they may be better than we could've imagined.
I found nothing to dislike about the book. Botello’s writing style was entertaining and exciting. The book is well-edited, written, and structured. I recommend this book to anyone craving for an unconventional story that looks behind romance. For these reasons, I am giving this book five stars.
I did not know what was in store for this book. I had some expectations, but this book took them in a whole new direction. These 180 days of rekindling lead to rebuilding self-discovery and an unexpected emotional connection that builds more than romance, but resilience. In a twisted, unique, and unconventional manner, Alfredo Botello constructs a storyline beyond building a romance, but building a new life. We all need to be open to the possibilities life has to offer and who knows they may be better than we could've imagined.
I found nothing to dislike about the book. Botello’s writing style was entertaining and exciting. The book is well-edited, written, and structured. I recommend this book to anyone craving for an unconventional story that looks behind romance. For these reasons, I am giving this book five stars.
February 18, 2024
180 Days by Alfredo Botello is a charming, relatable, love story with drama, struggles, and success. From page one you are drawn into the drama of the characters and their daily life. A couple, who has been together ten years, now wishes to divorce but must wait 180 days by California law to finalize the divorce. The details as to why they are getting divorced slowly evolve throughout the book with the countdown from past to present and again we learn the steamy details of why they are in this position. The characters have supportive family and friends that they seek while treading through this testing time with the divorce. As with most people, you have various interactions and opinions that try to sway your heart. To add to their final decision is the small significant detail that they had put in to adopt a child from a foreign country. They had been on a waiting list for years. They are very near getting that child now. Figuring out what to do, and how to move on with their lives is most engaging and loving. This was a long yet very detailed story, I was pulled in and did not want to leave their lives.
January 16, 2024
180 Days is about two characters, Naomi and Tomas. The crux of the story is that Tomas cheated on Naomi, and Naomi naturally wants a divorce and starts the divorce process. The book then goes in a disjointed way of describing their trials and tribulations about the breakup. While most people would complain a lot about this method, it seems to work well. I don’t know why but I have gotten used to it and looked forward to reading the story and what has happened. Again, the disjointed way of showing time just shows a microcosm (per chapter) of what they both go through in the scenario. It’s very easy to get a grasp of the characters and figure out what may have happened. The good thing is that the characters of course fully explain and you find out quickly enough what the issue is that led to their breakup, something that you expect to guess with the storytelling.
December 18, 2023
Alfredo Botello's 180 DAYS is completely enthralling. Hooked by the intensity of this intertwined love story, I couldn’t wait to find out how it would end. The shifting threads of desire and despair, betrayal and forgiveness, yearning and sadness create a story that is at once heart breaking and breathtaking. And Botello does it with alternating time horizons and deftly shifting points of view. Somehow, he manages to pull it off and creates an exquisite story which is laced with dynamic dialogue that possesses an immediacy and intimacy that are nothing short of genius. His prose is indeed electric, inspired, and often poetic. Simply put, 180 DAYS is a brilliant book with excellent writing. I loved it!
June 9, 2024
A lot of wisdom embedded in this book- despite the numerous typos in the e-book I was yearning to fix!!
August 24, 2024
Really well written, perspective was alternating between main characters based on the day after the filing of divorce.
November 12, 2025
So the writing wasn't bad, the author has a great voice. I just hated every single character. There was not a redeemable character in this book for me and the time jumps drove me crazy. I am legitimately thinking about tearing the book apart and putting it in the correct chronological order and then maybe, maybe then I wouldn't hate it so much.
I was lucky enough to meet the author and he was very nice. And like I said, his writing is well put together. His characters have strong voices. I just hated them. I know that he has another book coming out. I'm not opposed to trying it. I just really struggled with this particular story.
I was lucky enough to meet the author and he was very nice. And like I said, his writing is well put together. His characters have strong voices. I just hated them. I know that he has another book coming out. I'm not opposed to trying it. I just really struggled with this particular story.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews