First off, let me say that I’m not here to bash the author. In fact, she’s one of my all-time favorites. I rarely re-read books, but one of hers happens to be my go-to comfort read—I’ve devoured it three or four times over the years. So, it pains me to say that this latest book fell flat for me.

The book cover and synopsis promised a story about characters at a crossroads in their lives, 10 years after a tragedy, coming together to support one another. I was excited to see this group of old college friends reconnect, rekindle, and reset. I knew there would be multiple elements involved, but I wasn’t prepared for just how heavy and politically charged the story would be. Not exactly the light summer read I’d been anticipating for months.

Now, heavy themes and political issues aren’t fundamentally bad—they can add depth and realism to a story. I’ll try to explain what I mean, but be warned: potential spoilers ahead. The story mentions a social media influencer, infidelity, LGBTQ+ characters, narcissistic parents, troubled family dynamics and even a sloppy sidekick. There were also a few mentions of sexual consent, with even a question of sexual assault. Additionally, there are strong elements of suicide, alcoholism, mental illness, and depression. However, some of these details felt unnecessary and forced, as if they were included just to check off boxes. It even went on to mention Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, TikTok, and Zach Galifianakis, which felt out of place. Anyway, the way these themes were handled didn’t sit right with me.

Although the characters were in their 30s, they were completely unrelatable. Most people can’t just quit a job to fulfill a 10-year-old pact and jump on a plane to travel for weeks on end. Making future plans with friends, absolutely. Being there for them in their time of need, completely. But to just up and leave like that? Not so much. And let’s not forget the seemingly endless supply of money for these spontaneous plans—highly unrealistic, at least for me anyway.

Another issue I had was with the characters themselves. The story was stuffed full of secrets, lies, and betrayals, despite the friends supposedly being there to support each other during a time of crisis. Instead of the mature, well-developed individuals I expected, they came across as surprisingly immature—especially given their age and respectable careers. While I could agree with some of their decisions, the way those situations were handled left much to be desired.

And despite flying through the book, the ending felt extremely rushed and unsatisfying. I’m left with so many unanswered questions. Needless to say, Giffin will remain on my favorite authors list, and I’ll always hold a spot in my heart for the Darcy & Rachel series, but sadly this just wasn’t it for me.