A review by jking1118
A Bend in the Road by Nicholas Sparks

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

3.25

I don’t normally read books that are lighter “beach reads” like this that don’t explore either the emotional or psychological aspects of the characters’ psyches in depth so I’m biased in my rating. If you’re looking for a “beach read” that doesn’t make you think, I suppose this fits the bill. It also doesn’t fully hold up plot-wise in 2025 given what is now openly known about police brutality and emotional manipulation/abuse in intimate relationships. The main character did not take any ownership for his behavior and how he treated his girlfriend while grieving. 
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