Reviews with content warning for Eating disorder - How to Fall Out of Love Madly

I think the author wanted this novel’s “thesis statement” to be: “Even high-achieving, strong, kind women make themselves small for men without realizing it, and that is a tragedy.” Unfortunately, it fails to deliver on this front because almost all of the chapters are centered around the shitty men in their lives rather than the other positive qualities they supposedly possess. If the book had given more reasons to like Joy, Annie, and Celine—and had shown them to the reader rather than telling us they’re there (such as being told Joy is amazing at her job but never seeing her at work)—I would have loved it. I would have been so infuriated by the way these men treated them. But instead, I found myself emotionally detached. Their stunted communication skills and life problems also seemed unrealistic for women in their early 30s.

I also felt like the hatred of their bodies was a bit too graphic and distressing given that there was little resolution on that topic. Joy has a full blown eating disorder, but the book just ended with “sometimes I eat ice cream now!” instead of her getting proper treatment.

ANYWAY, as a mid-20s woman, I want to read stories about women who are trying their best and have some admirable qualities but still struggle, not walking disasters who have gone three decades never once questioning their realities.

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ademusoyo's review against another edition

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emotional sad tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

I did not like this book.

I wasn’t sure what I was getting into when I read it but I was disappointed all the way through.

The book is relatable to anyone in early 30s or late 20s but each of the characters felt insufferable in their own individual way.

I was hoping for a big turning point at the end but it all just fell short to me.

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ashleigheu's review against another edition

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medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

It was really difficult to finish this book. It was like reading the thoughts of a man trying to understand women. All they think about is how fat they look and are so intimidated by man’s ability to overpower them. The amount of times the word “rape” was used unnecessarily was uncomfortable. The last 3 sections the women finally “grow” to understand they don't need men the way they thought they did. It was underwhelming to say the least.

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