In A.M. Weald's debut novel, Even If We're Broken, two over-forty millennials, Kate and Ben, reunite after twelve years for a summer archaeology dig in Newfoundland. Both battling personal demons – Kate grappling with anxiety and a recent heartbreak, Ben struggling with body image and a fractured family life – they seek solace in their shared passion. Their rekindled friendship, steeped in the history they unearth, slowly blossoms into something more, challenging their past hurts and the distance that separates them. This emotional and poignant story explores themes of mental health, second chances, and the enduring power of connection, offering a heartwarming slow-burn romance against the backdrop of a breathtaking landscape.
Review Even If We're Broken
"Even If We're Broken" resonated with me on so many levels, leaving me with that lingering feeling of wanting more after I turned the final page. It's the kind of book that burrows its way into your heart, not just through a captivating romance, but through its profoundly honest portrayal of flawed, relatable characters. The slow-burn aspect, which I usually find a challenge, worked beautifully here, perfectly complementing the careful development of Kate and Ben's relationship.
What truly set this book apart was its unflinching depiction of mental health struggles. Kate and Ben's battles with anxiety, depression, body image issues, and chronic pain felt authentic and never sensationalized. It wasn't a gratuitous inclusion; it was integral to their personalities and their journey toward healing. As someone who also navigates mental health challenges, I found immense comfort and validation in their stories, feeling genuinely seen and understood. Their vulnerabilities weren't weaknesses; they were part of their strength, making their eventual connection all the more poignant and satisfying.
The romance itself was beautifully understated. There were no grand gestures or sweeping declarations, just quiet moments of shared understanding and mutual support. Their connection felt earned, built on years of unspoken affection and a rediscovery of their shared past. The author masterfully avoids the typical romance tropes, focusing instead on their individual growth and the support they find in each other. The slow burn wasn't just a plot device; it was a reflection of the slow, painstaking process of healing and rebuilding one's life.
Beyond the central romance, the supporting characters were equally well-developed and contributed meaningfully to the overall narrative. The setting, a Viking-age archaeological dig in Newfoundland, provided a unique and engaging backdrop, adding another layer of richness to the story. The descriptions were vivid enough to make me feel as though I was right there with them, brushing dirt off ancient artifacts and breathing in the crisp Newfoundland air. The author's knowledge of archaeology shines through, adding a fascinating dimension to the narrative without ever overshadowing the emotional core of the story.
While the book tackles difficult themes, it does so with a tenderness and hope that never feels overwhelming. It's a celebration of imperfection, a reminder that healing is a journey, not a destination, and that love, in all its forms, is possible even when we feel broken. It's a story about finding solace in unexpected places, forging meaningful connections, and accepting ourselves, mess and all. The ending, while bittersweet, left me feeling satisfied and hopeful, with a lingering sense of warmth and contentment. It's a book I'll be recommending to others for a long time to come.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.94 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 373
- Publication date: 2024
Preview Book
