Landline

by Rainbow Rowell

[mary]

I loved this book more than I expected too. I have come across many varied reviews with people admitting that this may be there least favorite Rainbow Rowell novel. Which basically means it is still adored just not as much. I did enjoy this adult novel by her probably as much as her YA novels.

For one I really resonated with the characters- especially Georgie. I understand how it feels to constantly be working and then feeling inadequate outside of work. Her whole life has been about this dream job of hers and she feels terrible that it seems to have pushed away the love of her life, Neal. At the beginning, we see what appears to be a rocky marriage. This marriage almost seems to be pushed to its limits when Georgie decides to stay home and work instead of travel with her family to Omaha to visit Neal's mother for Christmas. Both Neal and Georgie have their reasons to feel hurt and betrayed.

I did really like Neal as well. He is the perfect quiet type- that never really gives much away with this facial expressions. I know what it is like to date a guy who never smiles or laughs. It can be really difficult and frustrating because you have to read them differently. Especially since Georgie is a comedy writer, she can't even get a laugh out of Neal. I do completely understand Georgie's perspective in this instance and I feel for her. But in the end she loves Neal and she realizes she is being a little selfish when it comes to her job. And of course by the end of the novel she realizes what she has to do to get her family back.

Now as for the landline phone that connects back to the past. Yes, it is very unrealistic, but I don't think that is the point. I found it a great way for Georgie to learn of her mistakes with Neal and as a way to remember why the feel in love in the first place. I loved reading those parts and the dialogue that occurred between her and twenty-something old Neal. I think we all wish we could go back to those moments when we truly fell in love with someone. When everything was intense and perfect. But life happens and a relationship is about growing with the other person through those hardships and experiences. This magic landline phone allowed that to happen for Neal and Georgie.

Yes it was a predicable ending, but overall it was a very entertaining read. It was heartwarming, tender, and real all at once. I would highly recommend it to all Rainbow Rowell fans and anyone who loves reading about real relationships.