Now this is the kind of romance novel I like. One where the love story sneaks up on you unexpectedly. And a love triangle or enemies turned lovers story doesn't hurt either. Writers & Lovers by Lily King came on my radar last year when it was a Book of the Month choice. Not only is the cover breathtaking, but Lily King's writing is as well. I loved how witty and smart her writing is, coupled with the character development she nailed in this book. Writers & Lovers is perfect if you are in the mood for an unpretentious love story, cloaked in a post college/"finding out who you are" journey.
Synopsis:
Casey Peabody is an aspiring writer who has been working on her novel for over six years. She struggles to make ends meet as a server in an upscale restaurant in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where she is constantly surrounded by patrons that are successful and rich. After her mother passes away, Casey struggles with finding her place in the world and grapples with losing her artistic identity to the modern adult expectations. She soon meets two very different men and is faced with the ages old dilemma; do you go for the one who is safe and stable or the one who is risky and sets your heart on fire?
Mel's Thoughts:
Overall, I liked Writers & Lovers and found myself enjoying the flowery, lyrical writing. It is easy to relate to Casey, as many of us have been at that point in our lives where we aren't sure of who we are or what our purpose is. Strangely enough, I really enjoyed the descriptive writing about Casey's serving job. It brought me back to my waitress and bartender days in high school and college. Where all the stress of school and relationship dramas melt away with the routine tasks of serving, only to be waiting for you at the end of your shift.
While I enjoyed the relationships Casey found herself developing throughout the book, it did come together a little "too" nicely at the end. I love a happy ending, but the more I read, the more I prefer a more realistic ending, even if that means not every problem gets solved in the end. That is just my personal preference though.
If you are looking for an unpretentious love story that is not your typical romance novel, combined with a little coming of age story, give Writers & Lovers by Lily King a try. I highly recommend this to fans of Elin Hilderbrand and Rebecca Serle.
Content warnings: death of parent
Rating:
4 stars
Favorite Quotes:
"I think of all the people playing roles, getting further and further away from themselves, from what moves them what stirs them all up inside."
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