I know this was a short story, however I feel it was too short. I think it could have been developed more. I feel like I was reading and then bam, it was over. I feel this had the potential to be really good. I enjoyed it but was disappointed the story I was getting into ended so abruptly.

When We Were Friends by Jane Green is a heartwarming and insightful story about friendship and trust. Lucy, recently divorced, forms an instant bond with the vibrant Elle, bringing excitement and meaning to her life. As their friendship deepens, Lucy starts to uncover unsettling truths about Elle.

Green’s storytelling is both heartfelt and suspenseful, with rich character development and an emotional journey that feels relatable. It’s a compelling read about the joys and challenges of new friendships, perfect for fans of thoughtful, character-driven stories.

I feel like the concept of friendship breakups is an interesting thing to write about but I wasn’t really feeling this. Honestly there were too many pop culture references in there for my liking and it all just felt a bit superficial to me. There’s only so much that one can do in 44 pages but the one thing I need from it is that it leaves an impression. This just feels very forgettable, unfortunately.

This gripped me from the start! Loved the premise, the pacing, the characters and the setting. This book had so much potential, however things got less and less enticing as the story unfolded. The big reveal wasn't all that shocking and from there, the story just devolved into sadness. I think the reader is meant to walk away with a positive, uplifting message but I felt it ended on a super-depressing note.

This would've made a great full-blown novel but as a short story, it fell flat.

3.8 rounded up to 4.

I just loved this book! I’ve already recommended it to all my friends. Jane Green is such a wonderful writer that really gets women. She writes them so believably. I know women (and men) just like all the characters.

The narrator was fabulous!

5 star for me!

“It’s such a gift of ageing, if we’re lucky, to learn to listen to that quiet voice inside that is always right, and always wants the best for us.”

Forty-four pages shouldn’t be enough to craft well-rounded characters, a vivid setting, and coherent plot.

Yet, here we are.

This nugget made me feel all the things, but mostly sadness and hope. Sadness that, without inner work, we’re doomed to replay all our old, unhelpful patterns, and hope that, with a fully-formed prefrontal cortex and a good therapist, things can get better.