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quietbookworm 's review for:
Between Friends & Lovers
by Shirlene Obuobi
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
OMG this was unexpected in the best ways. I was recommended this book but was skeptical. I'm usually not a fan of love triangles unless they're of the why choose variety, which this clearly was not. But Shirlene pulled me in within the first few pages. The first person characterization of Jo while still allowing us insight into Mal from a 3rd person perspective provided insights that made me fall in love with them both just a little bit more with each page. Even secondary characters were crafted in distinct ways that served as foils for the development of their relationship. And Ezra (sigh). There was a level of empathy for the choices that people make without necessarily knowing why. And it was so much like real life without being depressing.
Even the structure of the timelines in the story worked! Normally I hate when historical events are told throughout a story. I find it hard to follow. Not so here. The events are revealed in ways that are relevant to the present moment of the story and it makes such an impact.
My favorite read of 2025 by far.
Even the structure of the timelines in the story worked! Normally I hate when historical events are told throughout a story. I find it hard to follow. Not so here. The events are revealed in ways that are relevant to the present moment of the story and it makes such an impact.
My favorite read of 2025 by far.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness, Suicide attempt
Moderate: Child abuse, Drug use, Misogyny, Racial slurs, Sexual content, Medical content, Toxic friendship