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The Intoxicating Rush of a New BFF
You know that feeling when you meet someone and it’s like, BAM! Instant connection? Like you’ve known each other forever? That’s exactly what happens to Lucy, the protagonist of Jane Green’s latest novel, “When We Were Friends.” And let me tell you, Green nails that giddy, almost teenage-like excitement of finding your person.
But here’s the thing—and I’m sure we’ve all been there—sometimes that rush of connection can blind us to red flags waving right in our faces. Green explores this idea with a deft touch, reminding us that even as adults, we can still get caught up in the intoxicating whirlwind of a new friendship.
A Deep Dive into the Plot (Without Spoiling All the Juicy Bits)
So, here’s the deal: Lucy’s fresh out of a divorce, trying to find her footing in this new chapter of her life. She’s got a preteen daughter, a cozy new house, and a burning desire to just, you know, figure out who she is now that she’s not somebody’s wife.
Enter Elle—young, vibrant, and seemingly the answer to Lucy’s prayers for a kindred spirit. These two hit it off like a house on fire, becoming inseparable faster than you can say “BFFs.” But as Lucy introduces Elle to her wider social circle, things start to get… weird.
Green keeps you on your toes, dropping little hints that all might not be as rosy as it seems. Is Elle really who she says she is? Can their friendship survive closer scrutiny? I found myself flipping pages faster and faster, desperate to unravel the mystery.
The Good, The Bad, and The OMG-Worthy
Let’s break this down, shall we?
What Worked:
- Characters that feel real: Lucy, in particular, is so relatable it hurts. Her insecurities, her desire to be liked, her struggle to redefine herself post-divorce—it all rings true.
- Pacing: Green knows how to keep things moving. The story never drags, and there are enough twists to keep you guessing.
- Exploration of female friendship: The book dives deep into the complexities of women’s relationships, showing both the beauty and the potential toxicity.
What Could’ve Been Better:
- Predictability: While there are surprises, some plot points felt a bit telegraphed. I saw a few twists coming from a mile away.
- Secondary characters: Some of the side characters felt a little underdeveloped. I wanted to know more about them!
- Resolution: Without spoiling anything, the ending felt a tad rushed. I wanted more time to sit with the fallout.
Green’s Writing Style: Like Chatting with Your Smartest Friend
One thing I’ve always loved about Jane Green’s books is how effortlessly readable they are. “When We Were Friends” is no exception. Her writing style is conversational, witty, and warm—like you’re gossiping over coffee with your most insightful friend.
Green has a knack for observations that make you go, “Yes! That’s exactly how it is!” For instance, when she describes the cliques of divorced women in Lucy’s town, I found myself nodding along, thinking of similar groups in my own community.
Themes That’ll Make You Think
While “When We Were Friends” is a quick, engaging read, it’s not all fluff. Green tackles some meaty themes here:
- The vulnerability of starting over: Lucy’s journey post-divorce is raw and real.
- The danger of putting people on pedestals: Lucy’s idealization of Elle serves as a cautionary tale.
- The importance of trusting your gut: Green reminds us that those niggling doubts often have merit.
- The healing power of genuine connections: Without spoiling anything, the book ultimately celebrates authentic relationships.
A Word on Genre: More Than Just Chick Lit
Look, I know Jane Green often gets lumped into the “chick lit” category, but I think that does her work a disservice. While “When We Were Friends” is certainly accessible and entertaining, it’s got more depth than your average beach read.
Green deftly blends elements of women’s fiction, psychological thriller, and good old-fashioned character study. The result is a book that’s as thought-provoking as it is page-turning.
How It Stacks Up to Green’s Other Works
If you’re a Jane Green fan (and I’ll admit, I’ve read pretty much everything she’s written), you’ll find familiar elements here—the warm prose, the relatable characters, the exploration of women’s lives. But “When We Were Friends” feels a bit darker, a bit more suspenseful than some of her earlier works like “Jemima J” or “Mr. Maybe.”
In many ways, this book reminds me of Green’s “Sister Stardust,” which also dealt with a potentially toxic friendship. But while “Sister Stardust” was historical fiction, “When We Were Friends” feels urgently contemporary, tackling issues like social media and modern divorce culture.
Similar Books You Might Enjoy
If “When We Were Friends” leaves you hungry for more friendship-gone-wrong stories (and trust me, it might), here are a few recommendations:
- “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
- “The Perfect Friend” by Barbara Copperthwaite
- “The Other Woman” by Sandie Jones
The Verdict: To Read or Not to Read?
Alright, let’s cut to the chase – should you read “When We Were Friends”? In my humble opinion, hell yes. It’s a perfect blend of entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that’ll stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Is it perfect? Nah. But show me a book that is. What it is, though, is a compelling exploration of friendship, trust, and the sometimes messy process of finding yourself. Plus, it’s just plain fun to read.
So grab a copy, curl up with your favorite beverage, and prepare to lose yourself in Lucy and Elle’s world. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself side-eyeing your own friendships by the time you’re done!
So, what are you waiting for? Go grab a copy and let me know what you think. And hey, maybe give your bestie a call while you’re at it – just to check in, you know?
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