A review by bookobsessedmommy
Definitely Better Now by Ava Robinson

emotional funny hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Emma is 1 year sober and expecting things to finally start falling into place, but each step forward feels like 2 steps back. Emma goes on a journey of not just being sober, but learning to 'human' while sober. All she wants to be is 'normal', but with so many sober first, instead she feels awkward and weird. Ben is so sweet, and while I thought the resolution of their fight needed more flushing out, I'm glad he was patient with her. The narrative that her AA group sells reminds me a LOT of Western Christianity. "Just give up your will and God will work it all out." It's initially very attractive, particularly when we feel lost and out of control, but over time the concepts ring hollow. I was thrilled when she shared how she was feeling and found group that was a better fit for the next leg of her journey. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings