Friends with Benefits: A Deep Dive into Heart and Healing
When I picked up Friends with Benefits by Marisa Kanter, I was curious to see how she would weave romance with the intricacies of personal trauma and health concerns. Her debut adult novel promised more than just a whimsical friends-to-lovers story; it hinted at a portrait of friendship fortified through adversity, a theme that resonates deeply with many of us. Having read a few early reviews, I was intrigued—not just by the book itself, but also by the varied reactions from others. This dual curiosity set the stage for an enriching reading experience.
At its core, Friends with Benefits is a heartfelt exploration of friendship between Evie and Theo—two childhood companions who have navigated the rocky landscapes of abandonment, personal tragedies, and their own unmet potential. Evie’s journey is especially poignant, shaped by a debilitating illness, Crohn’s disease, and the emotional scars of parental abandonment. Her aspirations of becoming a dancer took a devastating turn, forcing her to reassess her dreams and navigate the murky waters of self-worth and health care. Meanwhile, Theo grapples with his own grief and familial expectations, caught between the legacy of his mother and the shadow of his father’s disappointment.
Kanter’s keen observation of the complexities of the U.S. health care system adds a rich layer to the narrative. It surprised me how seamlessly she integrated this deeply personal struggle into Evie’s story without making it feel preachy or intrusive. The plight of those with chronic illnesses is often glossed over in popular literature, but Kanter handles it with an empathy that is both refreshing and necessary.
The alternating perspectives of Evie and Theo are a narrative choice that I found particularly engaging. Each viewpoint sheds light on their internal battles, and I appreciated how Kanter balances their flaws and virtues. Both characters made mistakes, grappled with selfishness, and exhibited vulnerability, which made them feel real and relatable. Perhaps it’s this authenticity that led to the polarized responses to Evie’s character—some readers viewed her as selfish, while I saw a woman striving to navigate life’s challenges as best she can, colored by past traumas.
I was captivated by the moments that revealed the depth of Evie and Theo’s bond—the way they understood each other without words, the comforting familiarity that only a lifetime of friendship can forge. One scene in particular, where they reminisce about their childhood dance days while confronting their current realities, struck a chord with me. It was a beautiful reminder of how our past shapes our present relationships.
Ultimately, I found Friends with Benefits to be an eye-opening and engaging read that transcends the typical boundaries of the romance genre. Kanter’s ability to engage with real issues while crafting a love story is commendable, making this novel not just a romantic escapade but a celebration of resilience and connection.
For those who appreciate romance laced with deeper themes and a fresh voice, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up this book. Whether you’re well-versed in contemporary romance or just dipping your toes into new literary waters, Friends with Benefits is a journey worth taking. I left it not only entertained but also with a greater understanding of the nuances of love, friendship, and the struggles that shape us. Thank you to Celadon Books for gifting me an advanced copy; this reading experience will linger with me long after the last page.