A review by portybelle
The Pre-Loved Club by Sue Teddern

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No

4.5

 

I really enjoyed reading this warm story about two people who are dealing with the end of their previous relationships while starting to contemplate loving again. The author, Sue Teddern, did an excellent job of portraying how complicated relationships can be, particularly when children are involved. The challenges of co-parenting and getting to know new partners were clearly depicted in the story. Many people have to deal with these kinds of blended families, and I am sure that a lot of readers will find Gemma and Ned’s situations relatable.

One of the things I found enjoyable about The Preloved Club is the way Sue Teddern portrays her characters. The Preloved Club is told from the perspectives of two characters, Gemma and Ned, who meet at a single parents support club. This allows readers to see how each character is feeling. Initially, Ned seems to be the more likeable of the two, with his quiet determination to be the best father he can for his daughter, Dora. Gemma, on the other hand, may seem less likeable at first due to her fiery temper and inclination to act on impulse, but as the story progresses, we see that she has a vulnerable and hurt side to her.

I also liked many of the minor characters such as Gemma’s friend Ros, Ned’s friend Andy and Judy, Gemma’s favourite resident in the care home she worked in. They all brought something to the novel and helped show different aspects of Gemma and Ned’s characters. Scenes involving these characters were often among the funniest in the book.

I very much appreciated the emotional growth of both main characters in this book and the gently developing friendship between them. The Pre-Loved Club is is a charming story about friendship, family and new beginnings.