The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez on June 11, 2019
Genres: Fiction / Family Life / General, Fiction / Friendship, Fiction / Romance / Contemporary, Fiction / Romance / Firefighters, Fiction / Romance / Military, Fiction / Romance / Romantic Comedy, Fiction / Women
Pages: 384
Format: Paperback
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I feel like this is the first “real” romance with more of a heavy storyline that I have read in a while.
While The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez starts off with humor and the promise of a lighthearted love story, it quickly delves into weightier themes like infertility, grief, and personal sacrifice. The protagonist, Kristen, is dealing with a condition that makes her hesitant to fully embrace a future with Josh, despite their undeniable chemistry. What sets this novel apart is how Jimenez balances the fun, romantic moments with the raw, poignant ones, creating a story that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Even though the book is heavier than expected, the emotional layers add a depth that make it memorable. Jimenez tackles these serious topics with sensitivity and realism, making it a romance that feels genuine. One of the most endearing aspects, though, is the dog, Stuntman Mike—who wouldn’t fall in love with a pup like him? Stuntman Mike adds a playful, comforting element to the story, serving as a perfect companion during some of the more difficult scenes. Overall, this novel manages to tug at your heartstrings while still delivering the light moments you crave in a romance, making it a thoroughly engaging read.