Advice from senior monkeys

Hi everyone! In need for advice from senior monkeys here. 
I spent a few years in IB, and I was, most recently, at a BB, where I was, unfortunately, cut (was part of the redundancy round). I decided to take a break from the industry, focusing on a few projects of my own. Unfortunately it seems that none are working out. 
I’m not bad at the job (MDs are happy to recommend me), so I’ve recently started a search, thinking to come back to the industry but, unfortunately, it is not going well. Recruiters are not willing to send my CV to clients simply because I was out of the job for >6 months. 
The most I managed to find is a part-time role for a new boutique, which was just created by two MDs (still interviewing). If it all goes according to their plan, they are looking to expand etc. It’s effectively a start-up. If I get hired, I’ll be the first person to join their firm.
If anyone has been in my situation, what’s your advice? Also has anyone ever joined a start-up M&A boutique and how did it go for you?