Review of Looking Glass Friends

[soulmyths]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Looking Glass Friends" by E L Neve.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Looking Glass Friends: A Novel Inspired by Real Love Letters by E.L. Neve portrays a love story about two souls who find themselves inexplicably drawn to one another through kindness and friendship. Already in increasingly unhappy marriages, Ellie and Neil could not have been able to predict that simple acts such as visiting a bakery and sharing books would lead them to become such close friends and eventually discover the understanding and emotion they need in their lives through each other.

Grappling with the fact they have already devoted themselves to other people, the love story between Neil and Ellie is a simple, although deep and realistic one. We get to witness their relationship develop from almost strangers who can’t even recognize the other’s face to friends who share the most emotionally intimate parts of themselves to realizing that they are soulmates.

I appreciate that the writer also delved into the points of view of Ellie and Neil’s spouses. Neil’s wife, Fay, is just a woman who is trying to hold her marriage together, and eventually has to come to terms with the fact it may not be savable. As for Ellie’s husband, Jake? Words cannot do justice to how much I despise this man.

Taking place in the 90s, and featuring the exchange of letters and emails, I was slightly reminded of the classic movie You’ve Got Mail. The romances and stories are different, but it was still nice to be taken back to that point in time.

My only mild complaint was I initially found the book to be slow-paced. Mainly a problem at the beginning of the book eventually this picks up as the story goes on. I found it easier to get through the Audible version I used as the format of doing this review than it was when I was just reading the book on its own. The narration of the audiobook by BJ Harrison was very soothing, producing an easy and enjoyable listen.

I am giving Looking Glass Friends 4 out of 5 stars. Even though I did not necessarily find it to be captivating all the way through, I ended up with a great appreciation for the story.

My recommendation for this book would be for those who gravitate toward love stories based on friendship, understanding, and communication. Neil and Ellie’s love story is a slow burn, portraying a very healthy and compassionate relationship.

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Looking Glass Friends
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