Almost Just Friends: A Novel

I was completely captivated by every page of this book. Jill Shalvis demonstrates exceptional storytelling prowess, crafting a narrative that beautifully explores themes of personal strength and resilience. Her writing style is both engaging and inspiring, drawing readers into a compelling journey of empowerment and growth.

I’ve just come back from a 10-day cruise with my family. Not just my little family, my whole bloody family. There were 15 of us in total, setting sail to celebrate my parents 50th wedding anniversary. Congratulations, Mum and Dad on surviving and conquering 50 years of wedded bliss. Love you both so much and I’m proud to be your daughter. BUT 10 DAYS STUCK ON A BOAT…BLOODY HELL, THAT WAS HARD WORK! I love them… but, geez, I don’t like them sometimes. Family dynamics are a wonderful thing. One day we’re all happy, happy, joy, joy (that could have been the wine talking). The next day, there are tears, tantrums and screaming matches (too many wine days, not enough water days). I guess it’s been a wee while since I’ve spent days with my sisters and parents. We love, trust and care for each other which gives us the freedom to be honest, straight-forward and even a little blunt. Honestly, a lot of it was a blast and I loved spending time with my family but I’ve never been so bloody happy to be home from a holiday. It cracked me up that again, Jill Shalvis has written something so relevant to me and my life. Almost Just Friends is all about family dynamics. I recognised the bossy elder sister who lectures instead of listens. I know that little sister who is determined to be strong and independent… with a little help from family. I may also be somewhat like the middle “peacekeeper” who has been known to go off the rails but never meant to be a burden. Now, all these traits do…

Piper Manning has raised her siblings after the death of their parents and then her grandparents and finally is ready to leave Wildstone to pursue her dream of becoming a physician assistant after she sells the family property. Unexpectedly her siblings return home with secrets that will impact her ability to leave. Then there is her neighbor's son, Camden Hayes, who complicates her life with the attraction that develops between them. This was a really enjoyable story with realistic characters and family dynamics.