Reviews

If I Never Met You by Mhairi McFarlane

michellechien930's review against another edition

4.0

Mhairi McFarlane's books are quickly becoming a must-buy for me! They are really well written and feature a believable but still sweetly romantic story. "If I Never Met You" was really nice as well and there is a terrifically cute ending! I can't wait until she writes her next book.

koz108's review

emotional funny hopeful inspiring fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

elllljayyyy's review

funny lighthearted slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

jenvanderschans's review

lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

athiya_'s review

3.0

The build-up was really really good but the end fell flat.

choya's review

3.0

I thought it was average, could have been better but the ending was bleh for me

schor's review against another edition

funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.5

emptzuu's review

The book begins with an extensive exploration of a breakup with a toxic partner, which dominates the narrative. In a romance novel, I anticipate the main characters to share ample on-page time, fostering their connection. However, the protagonist remains fixated on her past relationship, leaving little room for the budding romance with the new love interest, who comes across as one-dimensional. This disproportionate focus detracts from the expected romantic elements, and I find myself disengaged from the characters.

Additionally, I was under the impression that the author was a woman of color, but was surprised to discover she is a white Scottish woman. The inclusion of a racially diverse protagonist feels tokenistic, as if it were a superficial addition rather than an integral aspect of the character's identity. Merely acknowledging race without integrating it meaningfully into the narrative falls short of genuine diversity representation in romance literature. 

snon's review

emotional funny lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

svillanu's review

4.0

I loved the character development, and I felt for the main character so much! I was really invested in her personal growth outside of the various relationships, and I loved to see her develop a sense of self. Overall, I loved this!