Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin revolves around the complicated relationship dynamics between two best friends, Rachel and Darcy, and the man, Dex, who comes between them. The plot explores themes of betrayal, friendship, and moral dilemmas as Rachel finds herself in an affair with Dex, who is engaged to Darcy. The writing style is engaging, with realistic and flawed characters that evoke strong emotions in the readers. The book delves into the gray areas of relationships and challenges traditional notions of loyalty and love, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Characters:

Characters are flawed, relatable, and realistic, with complex interpersonal dynamics.

Writing/Prose:

The author employs a relatable and engaging writing style, characterized by sharp dialogue and introspection.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers around a complicated love affair between best friends, highlighting moral dilemmas and personal growth.

Setting:

Set in contemporary New York City and the Hamptons, enhancing its modern chick lit appeal.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and engaging, keeping the reader invested in the character's journey.

I thought about turning thirty. My best friend Darcy and I came across a perpetual calendar in the back of the phone book, where you could look up any date in the future, and by using this little grid...

Notes:

The book's main character, Rachel White, is portrayed as a hard-working attorney who struggles with her feelings for her best friend's fiancé, Dex.

Rachel has always been in the shadow of her glamorous best friend, Darcy, which creates tension in their relationship.

The book explores themes such as infidelity, friendship, and self-discovery, showing the moral complexities involved.

Many readers appreciate how Giffin portrays the emotions of her characters, making them relatable despite their flawed decisions.

The character of Darcy is often seen as both sympathetic and insufferable, reflecting the complexity of female friendships.

'Something Borrowed' has been described as a fast, entertaining read, often categorized as a guilty pleasure or chick lit.

The story begins with Rachel's 30th birthday celebration, which sets off a chain of events leading to her affair with Dex.

The sequel, 'Something Blue', is told from Darcy's perspective, providing a different viewpoint on the events of the first book.

Many readers find themselves conflicted about rooting for Rachel, given her actions in betraying her friend.

The novel discusses how societal expectations and gender roles affect women's relationships with each other and with men.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of infidelity, emotional turmoil regarding friendships, and the moral ambiguity surrounding the characters' actions.

Has Romance?

Romance is a central theme within Something Borrowed, characterized by intense emotional connections that complicate relationships.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Something Borrowed

Emily Giffin

The smash-hit debut novel for every woman who has ever had a complicated love-hate friendship.

Rachel White is the consummate good girl. A hard-working attorney at a large Manhattan law firm and a diligent maid of honor to her charmed best friend Darcy, Rachel has always played by all the rules. Since grade school, she has watched Darcy shine, quietly accepting the sidekick role in their lopsided friendship. But that suddenly changes the night of her thirtieth birthday when Rachel finally confesses her feelings to Darcy's fiance, and is both horrified and thrilled to discover that he feels the same way. As the wedding date draws near, events spiral out of control, and Rachel knows she must make a choice between her heart and conscience. In so doing, she discovers that the lines between right and wrong can be blurry, endings aren't always neat, and sometimes you have to risk everything to be true to yourself.

Ratings (27)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (7)
Liked It (10)
It Was OK (4)
Did Not Like (1)
Hated It (2)

Reader Stats (43):

Read It (29)
Want To Read (7)
Not Interested (7)

2 comment(s)

greane726

Hated It

2 months

Ugh, ugh, ugh. HATED this book. EVERY SINGLE ONE of the characters in this book were terrible people and I couldn't find anything to root for them for. Blech.

ncltup375

Liked It

6 months

3.5 stars. I couldn’t put this book down bc I had to find out what happens. However, the characters have some serious flaws that made it difficult to love this book more. This is the 2nd Emily Giffin book I’ve read and I definitely think she can write a good story.

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About the Author:

Emily Giffin is the author of several New York Times bestselling novels, including Something Borrowed, which has been adapted as a major motion picture. A graduate of Wake Forest University and the University of Virginia School of Law, she lives in Atlanta with her family.

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