I absolutely loved this book. Not only was it full of interesting characters, but it made me want to get a bike and sign up for an absurdly long bike trip. The heavier topics were dealt with with such care, and while yes, maybe some plot points wrapped up a little too easily, frankly that's what I need in my life right now! This book makes you laugh, makes you swoon, and makes you hope that life can really be like this. And the romance was delicious, too!

Caveat before I get into the meat of this review - I really liked this book. I found the concept/setting unique and fun to read about. I really liked the MCs and the chemistry between them. And I liked the exploration of family dynamics and how tricky they can be.

But this book was trying to do way too much, to the point where it almost felt like two books in one. And I think that did a disservice to one of the stories. The parts about Abby, Mark, Sebastian, Eileen, etc were well developed and intriguing. But the ones involving Lily and Morgan weren’t delved into enough, which is a shame because it was an important and interesting story. I enjoyed their scenes and was truly sad when their plot line abruptly drops off. It wasn’t balanced enough with the other half of the story, so it didn’t feel like it fit.

Again I really liked this book and would actually recommend it, I just think Weiner had two great ideas for books and decided to write both, and really should have picked just one to focus on. I think both would be stronger novels separated from each other.

Thank you to Atria Books and Netgalley for the ARC. The Breakaway is out 8/29

Jennifer Weiner is reliable -- I have thoroughly enjoyed her books over the last four years and look forward to them now as much as any. Although her latest wasn't quite as juicy as her past three, it is still worth reading because she writes such good characters. If nothing else, I find her main characters, especially women narrators, to be authentic, honest and a joy to read. This book had social commentary and nuance that I also appreciated. You won't be disappointed!

The Breakaway comes out next week on August 29, 2023 and you can purchase HERE.

Abby was looking forward to telling him about the day's ride and how, as she predicted, the men had been the ones almost getting into accidents, or drifting toward the center of the path, or the road, completely oblivious to other bikes and cars. Lizzie's theory was that men rode their bikes the way they moved through the world—heedless, confident, making it everyone else's job to get out of their way. Women were more cautious. They followed the rules and were careful about staying to the side of the road, about observing stop signs and traffic lights and calling "On you left!" when they passed. Many men—maybe most men—couldn't be bothered.

"The Breakaway" by Jennifer Weiner is a heartwarming and empowering novel that explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships.

In this story, Abby Stern, a thirty-three-year-old woman, navigates the challenges of her life with honesty and determination. Abby is content with her body and her life, even though it may not conform to societal norms. She's engaged to her childhood sweetheart, Mark, and is comfortable in her own skin. However, Abby's peace is disrupted when she reconnects with a man from her past, Sebastian, whom she shared a passionate night with two years earlier. As Abby embarks on a cycling trip to Niagara Falls, she's joined by an eclectic group of people, including her mother Eileen, who has played a significant role in shaping Abby's self-image.

Jennifer Weiner's writing skillfully portrays Abby's internal struggles and growth throughout the journey. The character development is rich and multi-dimensional, allowing readers to connect with Abby's vulnerabilities and triumphs. The relationships Abby forms with the other cyclists, including Sebastian, Eileen, and a teenage girl with a secret, add depth to the narrative. The interactions between characters are authentic and reflective of the complexities of real-life connections.

Weiner adeptly addresses issues related to body image, self-acceptance, and the impact of societal pressures. Abby's journey of self-discovery is both relatable and inspiring, as she learns to confront her insecurities and redefine her sense of worth. The story also delves into family dynamics, particularly Abby's complex relationship with her mother, which adds emotional depth to the narrative.

The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with a mix of introspective moments, heartwarming interactions, and unexpected twists. The backdrop of the cycling trip adds a sense of adventure and transformation to the story, as characters navigate physical challenges and confront their personal demons.

"The Breakaway" is a beautifully written novel that tackles important themes with sensitivity and authenticity. Jennifer Weiner's storytelling prowess shines as she crafts a narrative that combines self-discovery, relationships, and personal growth. This book is a heartening and relatable read that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories about finding one's voice and embracing one's true self.

Thirty-three-year-old Abby Stern is at a place in her life where she should feel content. Sure, she still isn't quite sure what she wants to do when she "grows up," but she's finally at peace with her plus-size body, and she's in a stable relationship with her preteen summer camp sweetheart, Mark. And yet, she still feels unsettled, not quite sure if she's ready to fully commit to Mark, and unable to forget about a steamy night with a man named Sebastian a couple of years ago.

When Abby gets the opportunity to lead a bike trip from New York City to Niagara Falls, she thinks it will be a chance to get away and clear her head. But she swiftly learns it won't be that simple: Not only is Sebastian, her steamy one-night stand, among the group of bikers she's leading -- so is her mother, with whom she has a complicated relationship after a lifetime of body shaming. And to complicate matters even further, a teenage member of the bike group is harboring a devastating secret...

I read quite a few of Jennifer Weiner's books in the early aughts and then for some unknown reason stopped seeking out her new releases. I'm happy to have rediscovered her with The Breakaway, which is both a breezy rom com and a thoughtful, nuanced meditation on several themes: body positivity, women's health, complex mother-daughter relationships, infidelity, sexuality, and mental health. The narrative is so charming and engaging, and I found it difficult to put the book down. Even though she touches on some serious issues, Weiner maintains a mostly light-hearted tone throughout and I found myself just sitting back and enjoying the (bike) ride. Weiner's writing feels effortless and is full of humor and heart, and Abby and Sebastian are flawed, relatable characters that I was really rooting for.

I wish Weiner had committed a bit more fully to the multiple-perspective structure of this novel, or done away with it entirely, as I'm not sure one of the storylines really fit organically into the overall arc of Abby and Sebastian's story (it felt added for social/political relevance). But mostly, The Breakaway is refreshing and thoughtful and sweet, a novel about learning how to love other people -- and learning how to love yourself, too. Thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for the early reading opportunity.

Know that this story of Abby, a woman who finds her joy in biking, starts with, well, a very steamy scene. Know also that some might not agree with some of the choices various characters make. And that it's just plain odd to collect photos of weird feet. That said, I liked this tale of a 30 something plus size woman who has never really settled into any career but has found a relationship with her childhood sweetheart Mark, but it's not a satisfying one. An opportunity to lead a bike trip through New York State changes everything, as Abby finds she's got the moxie and the knowledge to do it. Except that Sebastian, her one night stand is part of the trip and he's being raked over the social media coals for the number of other one nighters he's had. You know he's actually a good guy, don't you? AND, Abby's mom, who made her life miserable as a child because of her weight, has also joined the trip. She's got a secret, one which doesn't wash away all of Abby's pain but does help her to understand her mother's issues with food. While most of this is told from Abby's perspective, other characters hop in as well. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A very good read for Weiner's fans. Almost made me want to go out and get a bike.

I loved this premise. One night stand with the best sex that you run into a few years later and are on a two week trip together. You could really feel the chemistry. Some of the social commentary might turn some people off. I have the same views so I was fine with it except for one portion. A really great romance

The Breakaway by Jennifer Weiner was EXCELLENT! I love the issues that this author tackles, such as weight acceptance, relationships and love, always with the perfect balance between fun humor, wit and seriousness. I completely enjoyed this wonderful adventure and characters! Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for the review copy. All opinions are my own.

I usually enjoy a Jennifer Weiner novel and this one was not an exception. Abby's story was rich and not just about her being a larger woman. It is a big part of her but there's also focus on how she likes to ride a bike for exercise and feels healthy even being bigger. She is dating Mark, a guy she met at "fat" camp that had gastric bypass surgery a few years ago and is on a different journey than her. She is still with him because she doesn't think there's anyone else that would want her. Her mom, Eileen, has always focused on Abby's weight and what she ate and was the reason she went to the camp. Then we have Sebastian. He was Abby's one and only one night stand that happened at the very beginning of her and Mark's relationship. He made her feel like no one ever has but she thought it was just alcohol induced and left without a good bye. Now he is on the bike ride that she is leading. We have many other characters with some interesting stories. I do think it should be noted that there is a side story about a 15 year old girl that wants to get an abortion from planned parenthood and can't in her state because it's illegal. She doesn't want to tell her mom either. This might be difficult for some people but it is important. I really enjoyed this book and all of its nuances.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for advanced copy, and I give my review freely

I thoroughly enjoyed this scenic rom-com.

Abby Fensker's childhood as "the fat girl" always plays at the back of her mind even as an adult who is healthy and fit. She rides her bicycle for miles every day. Her relationship with fat camp survivor Mark Medoff is stalled as Abby struggles with their different approaches to life. When Abby agrees to lead a bicycle tour for her friend Libby she takes on responsibility for a diverse group of 14 riders on a 12 day trip from New York City to Niagara Falls NY. Not only does Abby's mother, Eileen, surprise her but a one night stand from 2 years ago is there too.

The scenery is interesting, the various characters are often a source of laughter and of emotional connections that twist the plot in many unexpected directions. Another great novel from Jennifer Weiner.

At first glance I wasn't sure if this was a book I could really get into, but it didn't take long for me to become fully engaged. Naturally I was rooting for Abby and Sebastian throughout, but I also enjoyed getting to know the secondary characters and their stories. The author incorporated some real-life issues that are very relevant today. I am already recommending The Breakaway to my fellow readers!

This was a difficult novel for me to read and review . There was some parts of the novels that I enjoyed and others that I was angered and bored by.

Abby Stern is a plus sized woman who is engaged to her childhood /sweetheart friend that she meet in summer weight loss camp that her mother forced her to attend. Abby for the most part is happy ,she has her boyfriend ,biking and her cycling friends . However, there is something missing for Abby , the memory of her one night stand with Sebastian is never far from her mind . When a chance meeting reunites the two Abby life is at a crossroads.

As I said there were parts I really enjoyed and Jennifer Weiner’s writing style I found an easy read , but the body shaming was an anger point for me .

I just reviewed The Breakaway by Jennifer Weiner. #NetGalley #Breakaway

Abby isn't feeling totally settled in her life. Her boyfriend is great, but she doesn't feel the desire to move in with him. Her mother is caring...if a little too caring. Her career life is going nowhere. So when she gets offered a chance to lead a bicycle trip, she takes it. What she doesn't expect is one of the riders to be Sebastian, her hot one night stand from years ago, and the last minute addition of her mother.

Okay. This book was give and take for me. I liked some of it and disliked some of it. BUT, the parts that I liked were greater than those I didn't.

First, here's what I liked:
Weiner's writing style is amazing. She has such a way with words. The writing is smooth and transitions back and forth between past and present so seamlessly. There is also a great humor to it, especially in the dialogue and inner thoughts prose.
I liked Abby and Sebastian. Abby has a lot going on with her inner confidence and willingness to go after her own happiness. She's vulnerable. I did wish she came to realizations a bit faster. Sebastian was great. I loved his relationship with his best friend. I also liked Abby and Sebastian's relationship. They were so cute together and I was rooting for them.
The best part for me was the bicycling. I know nothing about this topic but Weiner does (I happened to go to a book signing were she talked about her love of it) and that comes through. It made me want to be a part of that world. She did a great job with that.

Now, what I wasn't keen on:
This book has a lot to do with weight. Which wasn't bad, but it was very heavy in it. I connected with some of it but wanted it to not be so prevalent. And yes, there was a point to it, but it could be triggering for some.
Now, I don't want to give too much away, but Abby has a boyfriend. A good boyfriend. You can tell early that she shouldn't be with him for her own reasons, but he's still a good boyfriend. He doesn't do anything bad to her. Honestly, there were times when little things came out when Abby thought about it, but they felt forced. And nothing that added up to her betrayal other than she shouldn't be in a relationship with him. I wish she had just ended it before anything happened.
Some are mad about the side plot of the abortion. I didn't have a problem with it. I didn't like that a group of adults worked to keep the 15 year old's mother in the dark, but it's clear where they are coming from. I wish though, that all of the others had stories. So it wasn't just about this one side story. Like each rider had a chapter and look into their lives.
I really really didn't like the part about Sebastian basically being dragged through the mud for just enjoying his life. He never made any promises and was upfront about everything. It really angered me that that woman made the TikTok about him and that it went as far as it did. Yes, it led him to reevaluate his life, but he should be able to live how he wants to.

All in all, I was middle ground. Give this one a try! Overall, it has some great elements to it!

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the gifted copy. My reviews are always honest.

While I really enjoyed this book, I dislike books that have controversial topics in it. Abby seemed to be self centered and didn’t seem to care about others feelings.

The absolute best story I have read in a long time. Will be sharing this one with everyone I know! Five well earned stars.

Abby Stern finds herself at a crossroads. A few years ago, she reconnected with her first boyfriend, who she met a summer camp many years before. Now, she is fairly confident they are soon to be engaged. But she cannot help but have qualms that she is not quite ready to settle down. When she gets an opportunity at the last minute to lead a two-week cycling trip in New York, she jumps at the opportunity to spend some time away and figure out what she wants. On the first day of the trip, Abby is surprised by two of the riders in the group she is leading -- her mom, who is prone to criticize Abby and her weight, and Sebastian, who Abby spent one night with that she has never been able to forget. Over the course of the two weeks, Abby comes into her own as a leader as she works through her relationships with Sebastian, her boyfriend, and her mom.

This is a engaging story about family, friendship, and finding your purpose when and where you least expect it.

Highly recommended!

Abby considers herself a lucky girl. She is set to marry a doctor. A handsome man she has known since high school. He doesn't make her heart leap but he understands her eating issues. After all, they had attended fat camp together. He has since had stomach reduction surgery and is now thin, she is still filling her belly with pleasure food and has a poor body image. Then, Abby spends one night with the thriller man of a lifetime. She knows it was just a lark, and life goes on. She is offered a fill-in job to lead a two-week bike excursion. The thriller guy shows up for the event and her mother. What happens in those two weeks is more than a bike journey.

I enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and the stories and even the side stories. I could have done without the political commentary. It didn't add anything to the story, the setting, or the plot and caused a distraction for me as I read what should have been one of Weiner's best stories. It remained, however, even with that, a good read.

Thank you to NetGalley for this advance copy of The Breakaway by Jennifer Weiner.I have read all Jennifer’s books and this one does not disappoint.Abby is a girl who has been big all her life.Sent to “fat camp “ as a tween she never measured up in her mother’s eyes.At camp, she meets Mark, with whom she forms a bon through the years doesn’t see again after her parents divorce and they can no longer afford camp. Fast forward about twenty years and Abby meets Mark again. He has had weight loss surgery and is now a podiatrist while Abby still works gig jobs but has also developed a love of bike riding.One night in New York ,right after she just met Mark again, she has a wonderful sexual encounter with Sebastian. Because she believes guys like him won’t go for girls like her, she leaves abruptly and doesn’t see him again until she is asked to lead a bike group from New York City to the Canadian border.There are an eclectic mix of bikers who provide lots of intrigue and drama including Abby’s mom who is looking for a way to finally connect with her daughter and Sebastian who has to convince Abby to give him another try especially after a scandal breaks out.This book is a little tedious in the beginning but kept reading you won’t be disappointed.

From my stationary bike, I felt a part of this story. It inspired me to hope that maybe I would find my way to getting a real bicycle that would work out here in the dirt road backcountry I find myself a part of.

This seems a gentle beach story at first. But soon, a person can see there are many subjects brought up from the character's point of view. A person needs to see all the layers of the story involved. Some may not agree with the views presented, but grab what you may and enjoy what you can. Mostly enjoy this young woman's life and journey as she finds her way to adulthood.

I was lucky to be able to read this Kindle edition through NetGalley. Thank you.

Another fabulous book by Jennifer Weiner. This book covers so many topics, body image, eating disorders, parental criticism, abortion, social media and more.
Abby Stern has fought her body image for years but has finally accepted herself. She was sent to "fat camp" by her mother for several summers. There she met Mark and was happy with him every summer, as he lost weight and gained it back every year.
Abby is a bike rider,so though people see her as overweight, she is healthy and happy.
Without giving to much away, Abby agrees to lead a bike tour in upper New York and a love triangle basically ensues.
Her mother also shows up and there is a mother daughter confrontation that leads to some important discussions.
You will cheer at the ending. I know I did.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for my EARC.