A Novel

by Jill Shalvis

Jill Shalvis has written many women’s fiction titles; however, this is the first of her novels that I have read. It is listed as the fifth in a series but I had absolutely no difficulty reading it as a standalone. I found it to be a good read.

The novel tells the story of several characters, among them are Brynn and Kinsey. At best, the two were “frenemies” after having attended the same summer camp for years. Each chapter starts with a letter that relates to this time. Readers will learn that Brynn and Kinsey share another connection. What will that mean to them?

Brynn has two moms who love her very much. This is, of course, good but has not meant that Brynn’s life has been carefree. She has floundered on her way to adulthood. After her latest disappointments and difficulties, she has returned to her childhood home and has become a substitute kindergarten teacher.

Brynn runs into Eli, an important friend from earlier in her life. He invites her to become the fourth roommate in his house. She agrees, only to find that Kinsey lives there too. They are still like “chalk and cheese” and find it difficult to get along.

Kinsey has her own issues. She has kidney failure and a transplant rejection. Will she find a suitable donor? Will she live?

Will the characters work out their relationships? Will there be a happy ending? Readers will turn the pages at they wait to find out.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.