The Break-Up Pact

by Emma Lord

3 out of 5 stars

In the midst of winter, "The Break-Up Pact" by Emma Lord, an ARC kindly provided by NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, offers a cozy diversion from the chilly weather outside. Set in a picturesque beach town, this novel weaves a tale of rekindled friendship, love, and the complexities of a life that never quite goes as planned.

The story centers around June and Levi, former best friends whose lives have taken wildly different paths since their teenage years. Reunited by their respective, and unexpectedly viral, break-ups, they engage in a faux romance that's as charming as it is complicated. Emma Lord, transitioning from YA fiction to adult fiction, brings her characteristic humor and emotional depth to this new venture.

June, struggling to keep her dream tea shop afloat, and Levi, a disillusioned hedge fund manager, are characters with depth, but their journey sometimes feels uneven. Their progression from estranged friends to pretend lovers is filled with moments both touching and awkward, offering glimpses of what could be a deeper exploration of their relationship.

However, the novel does encounter some turbulence. The premise of viral break-ups among non-celebrities stretches the imagination, and at times, the narrative can feel burdened by extraneous details. Additionally, the book's foray into internet culture and memes might not resonate with all readers, occasionally feeling out of sync with the story's more heartfelt moments.

Despite these drawbacks, "The Break-Up Pact" shows promise in its exploration of friendship, the complexities of past mistakes, and the bittersweet nature of returning to one’s roots. The avoidance of typical miscommunication tropes is a refreshing aspect, allowing for some genuine, if not entirely explored, growth between the characters.

Overall, "The Break-Up Pact" is a pleasant read, suitable for those looking for a light romance with a sprinkle of nostalgia and the complexities of modern relationships. It earns a solid three-star rating, serving as a reminder that life, much like love, is seldom straightforward and often takes us on unexpected detours.

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