Novel Explores Love, Trauma, and the Bonds of Friendship
A new novel delves into the complexities of relationships, exploring themes of queer romance, abuse, and the enduring power of female friendships. The story follows a woman’s journey through challenging circumstances, offering a nuanced look at love and resilience.
Intimacy and Intensity
The book, Ordinary Love by Marie Rutkoski, features well-written intimate scenes, praised for their authenticity. The narrative follows Emily and Gen, who were teenage sweethearts. They reconnect in their 30s after diverging paths. Emily is in an abusive marriage; Gen is an athlete.
The story also examines the homophobia they faced in their youth. A poignant scene involves Gen’s grandmother, who counters prejudice with a toast of acceptance.
“To my granddaughter. I love you. I love everything about you. I am so proud.”
—Gen’s Grandmother
It’s in exploring family intricacies that the novel shines. Childcare and the idea of surrogate family are explored, particularly through Gen’s grandmother’s kindness towards Emily. Domestic violence incidents have increased in the past year, indicating an ongoing issue that the book addresses. (Statista, 2024).
Abuse and Resilience
The novel subtly portrays Emily’s experience with coercive control in her marriage. Rutkoski masterfully conveys Emily’s careful navigation around her husband’s moods. He uses manipulation to exert control. The story then explores the close-knit support system of friends who try to help Emily, only for her husband to isolate her.
Stumbling Blocks
The author’s writing style is a key element. While the plot is engaging, some metaphors and turns of phrase disrupt the flow. Still, Ordinary Love is seen as superior to many similar novels, most notably because the sex scenes are well-executed.
Ultimately, the novel’s exploration of relationships, the challenges they present, and the strength found in human connection, leaves a lasting impact. The book’s exploration of friendship also underscores the importance of support networks.
