The Breakaway

by

Jennifer Weiner

Should you read this book?

The best public reviews summarized for you.

Who is this book for?

  • Readers who enjoy empowering women's fiction with body positive themes are likely to appreciate this book.
  • Fans of Jennifer Weiner's previous works will probably enjoy her signature style of writing about complex female characters navigating relationships and self-discovery.
  • Those interested in stories that tackle contemporary social issues like abortion rights and body image within a romantic storyline may find this appealing.
  • Women in their 30s-40s who can relate to struggles with self-acceptance, complicated family dynamics, and finding oneself later in life are also likely to connect with the main character and themes.

Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?

  • Readers looking for a light, fluffy romance without heavier themes may find this book too issue-driven.
  • Those who dislike cheating storylines in relationships or find the main character's choices frustrating may struggle to enjoy the story.
  • Conservative readers or those sensitive to liberal political messaging may be put off by some of the social commentary.
  • Fans of very plot-driven novels may find the character-focused narrative and multiple subplots tedious.
  • Readers seeking a more nuanced or subtle exploration of body image issues may find the approach here too heavy-handed or simplistic.

Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book

  • Empowering and body positive message about loving yourself as you are
  • Tackles important topics like women's issues, mental health, and abortion rights
  • Relatable and complex main character in Abby
  • Entertaining and engaging story that keeps readers interested
  • Well-written with the author's signature style and humor
  • Explores mother-daughter relationships and family dynamics
  • Promotes women supporting each other
  • Highlights the joy and freedom of cycling
  • Addresses societal pressures and expectations around body image
  • Provides representation for plus-size protagonists in romance

Things people didn't like as much about this book

  • Some found the political/social messaging heavy-handed or preachy
  • Main character Abby can come across as selfish or unlikeable at times
  • Cheating storyline was off-putting for some readers
  • Too many subplots and side characters that felt unnecessary
  • Romance between Abby and Sebastian lacked chemistry for some
  • Portrayal of men and relationships felt stereotypical to some readers
  • Resolution of conflicts felt rushed or unrealistic
  • Abortion subplot with teenage character felt out of place to some
  • Some found it too similar to the author's previous works
  • Handling of body image/weight issues felt problematic to some readers

If you like this book, you should consider reading:

by Alison Espach
by Emily Henry

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