Review of Friends with Benefits by Marisa Kanter
From the moment I stumbled upon Marisa Kanter’s debut adult novel, Friends with Benefits, I knew I was in for a ride that promised not only romance but also a deeper dive into the tangled web of human emotions shaped by personal histories. As someone who often devours contemporary fiction, I was intrigued by the blend of light-hearted comedy and serious subject matter, especially when I realized just how many layers Kanter had woven into her characters’ lives.
At the heart of Friends with Benefits are Evie and Theo, two lifelong friends whose paths have been anything but smooth. Their dynamic starts with the innocent camaraderie of childhood dance partners and gradually complicates with the weight of parental abandonment and their own aspirations. Kanter brilliantly captures the nuanced nature of friendship, love, and the lingering specter of familial expectations. It’s this interplay of trauma and tenderness that creates a gripping narrative arc, prompting readers to feel an undeniable connection to both characters as they confront their pasts and re-examine their futures.
Evie is a character who embodies resilience and vulnerability; her struggles with Crohn’s disease and the pain of family loss paint a vivid picture of a young woman searching for her place in the world. I found her journey particularly relatable, as Kanter doesn’t shy away from depicting the real-life implications of health care in the U.S. This element of the plot surprised me—while I anticipated a straightforward romantic storyline, I was delighted to find poignant reflections on chronic illness and systemic failures nestled within it. Kanter cleverly avoids jargon and technicalities, instead creating a narrative that is both informative and emotionally engaging.
Meanwhile, Theo serves as a counterbalance to Evie’s intensity, showcasing his own battles, subtly colored by the legacy of his mother’s illness. The proposal that sets their unique arrangement in motion—a “friendly” marriage to navigate the complexities of life—adds an intriguing twist. Here, the writing shines, combining humor with heartfelt moments that bring levity to their serious discussions.
What caught my attention, however, was the reception of these characters in other reviews. Many critiqued Evie’s nature, labeling her as selfish, while placing Theo on a pedestal as the golden-hearted friend. This discrepancy intrigued me, making me question what it reveals about readers’ own perceptions of vulnerability and strength. I appreciated how Kanter portrayed both characters with flaws; each made mistakes and sought redemption (or not)—a reflection of real-life friendships.
Kanter’s writing style flows effortlessly, making the pages turn quickly. The pacing mirrors the ebb and flow of relationships, switching seamlessly between laughter and somber moments without losing momentum. The dialogue sparkles with witty banter, making Evie and Theo’s interactions enjoyable and relatable.
In conclusion, Friends with Benefits is a delightful exploration that goes beyond the expectations of a contemporary romance. It’s a love letter to those navigating life’s challenges and the support that true friendship can provide. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone dipping their toes into the romance genre and to those who appreciate reflective storytelling that tackles real-world issues. Marisa Kanter has crafted a fresh voice in this space, and I can’t wait to see where her journey takes us next.
Reading Friends with Benefits reminded me of the importance of connection, not just with others but also with our own selves, imperfections and all. Thank you to Celadon Books for the opportunity to experience this heartfelt story!
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