My thoughts: If I Never Met You is a beautiful story of friendship, heartbreak and self-discovery. Laurie is a 36 year old successful lawyer who has been in love with her boyfriend and co-worker Dan for the past 18 years. They have a mortgage, successful careers and have recently discussed starting a family. Then, out of no where, Dan announces to her that he’s leaving her to “go find himself”. He assures her there is not another woman involved, but has to take a step back from this when he announces ten weeks later that he has met someone from a competing law firm and they are expecting a baby together.
Needless to say, Laurie is grief-stricken and humiliated but trying to carry on with life. A chance elevator breakdown with her law firm’s playboy Jamie leads to drinks together and a frank discussion about what is happening in their lives. Jamie has requested to be made a partner in the firm, but has been told his playboy lifestyle would not get him there. Laurie wants Dan to see the mistake he made and come back to her. The two develop a relationship of mutual benefit – acting as though they are a couple in hopes that they will both get what they want.
The author’s ability to develop likeable, meaningful characters is a gift. She tells Laurie’s story with humour and compassion . I loved that the story is about Laurie’s self-discovery as a person, as well as being able to see the flaws of the relationship she had with Dan.
The book is perfect for those that love women’s fiction and romantic comedies.
Thanks to Edelweiss and HarperCollins for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here.
My rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5.