A review by ristretto
Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective relaxing sad slow-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

3.5

Slow Dance is a story about second chance romance and finding the right time for a relationship to work. As usual Rainbow Rowell’s writing and funny and full heart with bittersweet moments as we explore the relationship of Shiloh and Cary both past and present. As the title suggests this is a story that takes it’s time to unfold much like the story of these character’s romantic feelings and ebbs and flows in their lives.

Fans of her previous work will see some parallels to her past writing. Some of it worked for me but sometimes it felt like a little too close of a retread. There is some very Atrachments-esque banter that felt very charming and which I really enjoyed. But some moments from the teenage years felt just a little too close to a couple of stories from the recent Scattered Showers short story collection and a character dynamic that personally I’m not a fan of, but that’s just my personal preference. As someone unfamiliar with the Midwest I thought the setting was interesting and enjoyed reading about it and how it shaped these characters. Overall it was enjoyable and sweet with lovely dialogue and character moments but it’s not my favorite thing she’s written. It could definitely be a really nice comfort for someone I feel.

This is a book for someone looking for a sweet and funny romantic read with bittersweet and emotional moments. Someone who’s looking for a second chance romance with lovely banter that takes its time.

Thank you very much to NetGalley and the publisher. I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.