Rainbow Rowell has long been celebrated for crafting adult romance novels that resonate with authenticity and depth, stories like Attachments and Landline that have left readers emotionally invested and deeply moved. Her signature style of creating relatable, flawed characters who navigate the complexities of love and life has earned her a dedicated fanbase. So, when news of a new adult romance emerged, anticipation was high for what many hoped would be another home run in the realm of contemporary love stories – a quintessential “slow dance book” that would sweep readers off their feet.
Many thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and Rainbow Rowell for an ARC of this book!
The premise of this new novel certainly sparks interest. Shiloh and Cary, once inseparable high school friends in 90s Omaha, were the epitome of “will-they-won’t-they” before they even knew it themselves. Sharing dreams, jokes, and teenage angst, their bond seemed unbreakable. Shiloh envisioned Broadway stardom, while Cary aimed for the Navy, creating a future that geographically separated them. Life intervened, paths diverged, and the youthful closeness faded into the background of their lives.
Fourteen years later, fate orchestrates a reunion at a mutual friend’s wedding. Shiloh, now navigating the aftermath of a divorce and motherhood, finds herself back in her childhood home, feeling vulnerable amidst the polished facades of her former classmates. The prospect of seeing Cary again is a mix of anticipation and anxiety. Then, their eyes meet across the crowded room, and the years melt away. A dance ensues, and with it, the buried question of “what if?” resurfaces. Could their connection be more than just nostalgic friendship?
As Shiloh and Cary tentatively explore this second chance, real-life obstacles emerge. Cary’s Navy commitments, Shiloh’s responsibilities as a single mother, and ingrained communication patterns from their past begin to test the waters. They grapple with whether their history is a foundation for something new or an anchor holding them back. Is this reunion a necessary catalyst for a lasting love, or just a final dance before they each continue on separate journeys?
For devoted Rainbow Rowell readers, the excitement surrounding this release was palpable. Having experienced the emotional depth and relatable characters in her previous adult romances, the expectation was set high. Rowell excels at crafting narratives where characters feel undeniably real, their struggles and triumphs mirroring life itself. This new “slow dance book” promised to deliver that same signature charm, set against a backdrop of 90s nostalgia and the compelling pull of a second chance romance.
However, while the novel possesses the familiar Rainbow Rowell charm and introduces endearing characters, it ultimately unfolds at a pace that feels less like a “slow dance” and more of a “slow read.” While the core elements are present – flawed characters, realistic scenarios, and heartfelt moments – this particular story doesn’t quite reach the heights of her previous acclaimed works.
One of the central challenges lies in the character of Shiloh. While her quirks and devotion to her children are endearing, her persistent internal barriers become a significant source of frustration. Shiloh’s constant self-sabotage and overthinking often impede the relationship’s progress, testing the patience of both Cary and the reader. While this realism is a Rowell trademark, in this instance, it tips into making Shiloh’s actions feel unnecessarily convoluted at times.
Conversely, Cary, while portrayed as steadfast and loyal, sometimes lacks depth. His character feels somewhat underdeveloped, primarily existing in relation to Shiloh’s complexities. While his unwavering support is admirable, exploring his inner world and motivations more deeply would have added another layer to the narrative. More insight into Cary’s perspective, beyond his reactions to Shiloh, would have enriched the overall dynamic.
Adding to the pacing issues is the timeline structure. The story interweaves present-day events in 2006 with flashbacks to Shiloh and Cary’s past. While flashbacks are essential to understanding their history, the consistent labeling of these sections simply as “before” creates a sense of disorientation. Without clearer markers of time, navigating the shifts between past and present becomes occasionally confusing, disrupting the narrative flow and making the “slow dance book” feel even more meandering in its pacing.
Ultimately, while Slow Dance delivers on the promise of a character-driven romance with Rainbow Rowell’s signature charm, its pacing and certain character development choices prevent it from reaching the heights of her best-loved novels. It’s a story that unfolds deliberately, perhaps too deliberately for readers seeking a quicker romantic spark. Despite these drawbacks, for devoted fans of Rainbow Rowell and those who appreciate a slow-burn, character-focused romance, this “slow dance book” still offers moments of genuine connection and heartfelt emotion. Just be prepared for a narrative that truly takes its time in getting to the rhythm of love.
3.5/5 stars (rounded up to 4 for Goodreads)
