The following version of this book was used to create the guide: Dolan, Naoise. Exciting Times. Ecco, 2020.

Naoise Dolan's novel Exciting Times is set in 2016 Hong Kong. The novel is written from the protagonist Ava's first person point of view and in the past tense. The novel traces Ava's first months away from her home in Dublin and her complex relationship journeys with Julian and Edith. The narrative centers on Ava's emotional experience as she attempts to discover her true self.

During the summer of 2016, Ava left her home in Dublin, Ireland to teach English in Hong Kong. She was unenthusiastic about the job, but hoped that changing her location might ameliorate her sadness. A month into her time in Hong Kong, however, Ava felt just as unhappy. She lived in a squalid flat with two difficult flatmates. Her supervisor at work tormented her about petty issues. Meanwhile, Ava had no friends and was making no money.

Therefore, Ava readily attached herself to a banker named Julian shortly after meeting him. Julian was handsome and charming, successful and wealthy. Just weeks into their relationship, Ava moved into Julian's expensive apartment. Julian agreed to cover the rent. He also bought Ava presents on a regular basis. The only thing he did not want was a committed relationship with Ava.

At first, Ava's arrangement with Julian felt ideal. Over time, however, Ava became increasingly restless and agitated. She wanted more from Julian but felt incapable of articulating her desires. She did not want to push Julian away. Instead, she wanted power over Julian. In spite of her discontentment, Ava did nothing to change her situation.

Julian informed Ava he would be in London for work for several months. She could stay in the apartment while he was gone.

Shortly after Julian left, Ava met an attractive lawyer named Edith through Julian's friend. Ava and Edith started spending time together. At first, Ava thought they were just friends. However, the more time they spent together, the more attached Ava felt to Edith. She was not only confident, successful, and wealthy, she seemed to enjoy her life. Finally one night, Ava told Edith she had feelings for her and they kissed.

Ava and Edith started dating. Meanwhile, Ava lied to Edith about Julian, insisting he was just her flatmate. She continued communicating with Julian, but told him nothing about Edith. Then one day, Julian said he was coming home in a week. Ava panicked, unsure what to do. Not long later, she accidentally sent Julian a message about her relationship with Edith while drinking. Julian did not care, as he and Ava were not a couple.

After Julian returned, Ava continued living with him. Edith pressed her about moving out, but Ava procrastinated. When her indecision went on for weeks, Edith gave her an ultimatum. Ava broke up with her.

Throughout the subsequent weeks, Ava and Julian started sleeping together again. She considered going to Frankfurt with him when he was relocated for work. However, she realized that she still loved Edith and wanted to be with her. Shortly after Julian left the country, Ava moved out of his apartment and made plans to reunite with Edith.