New York–born author, historian, and mother of two, Rachel J. Lithgow is no stranger to reinvention as she powerfully demonstrates in her raw and hilarious memoir, My Year of Really Bad Dates. Her latest work details the unpredictable world of post-divorce dating with sharp wit and heartfelt vulnerability, chronicling her transformative journey from humbling beginnings marrying into a Hollywood family, and later divorcing a well-known actor, which ultimately catapults her into a new chapter of life, one defined by resilience and self-discovery.

The celebrated author who resides on Long Island, has dedicated her career, spanning over three decades, to leading prominent cultural institutions around the globe as a distinguished historian and museum executive. A gifted writer, Lithgow brings a deep passion for history, public education, and cultural preservation to every role she undertakes. Her essays and commentary have been widely published in both national and international outlets, including The New York Times, The Daily News, Time, The Advocate, The Jerusalem Post, The Huffington Post, The Los Angeles Times, and The Times of Israel, just to name a few.

Lithgow’s latest written body of work was inspired by a series of life-changing events that unfolded during her midlife. Following the loss of her father and the end of her marriage, the mother-of-two made the bold decision to step away from her successful career as a historian to focus on writing full-time and to embrace the possibilities of beginning a new relationship.

The distinguished writer’s remarkable evolution isn’t just about swiping right or laughing through first-date disasters. It’s also shaped by a long marriage within a prominent Hollywood family. As the former daughter-in-law of legendary actor John Lithgow, the notable historian had to navigate challenges of maintaining a public identity while undergoing a deeply personal evolution. Her individual experience has been the foundation to sharing how women, especially those navigating midlife, can reclaim their voices and redefine what love, self-worth, and connection truly mean.

While the larger-than-life personality is currently hosting events across the country for her book launch, she also brings her signature honesty and humor to both local and national television, offering practical, safe, and emotionally intelligent dating advice rooted by her personal growth.

Reflecting on her experience recently at a pre-launch book signing, Lithgow shares, “Attending my first signing, well, bookplate signing, since my publish date is November 11^th, was surreal. Being in Zibby’s Bookshop in Santa Monica, surrounded by beautiful books and iconic authors like Susan Orlean, was a dream. I knew it would be exciting, but I had no idea how magical the experience would be until I was there!”

Indisputably, Lithgow’s unique life experience provides a powerful perspective on how women especially, those navigating midlife can reclaim their voices and redefine what love, self-worth, and connection truly mean. Lithgow admits, “I’m overwhelmed by the response on the book so far. The reviews from Kirkus and Publishers Weekly were so positive and encouraging; I was stunned as a first-time author and the comments on NetGalley, from people who know nothing about me, are mind-blowing. They appreciate the humor but also recognize the deeper layers of pain and vulnerability that went into the work.”

One reader wrote: “This was such an enjoyable read. I think it will resonate with anyone, regardless of age or situation, while staying deeply relatable. Rachel teaches us some powerful lessons that are much easier said than done. I would recommend this book to anyone!” P