As a millennial, I find myself very much in Sally Rooney's target audience. I’ve read all of her previously published novels, and her new book feels familiar, covering many of the same themes while expanding the scope with a wider cast of characters. In this novel, we meet Ivan, a chess prodigy in his early twenties, who enters into a secret relationship with Margaret, a thirty-five-year-old divorcee who was married to an alcoholic. Their relationship is hidden, largely due to the significant age gap between them. Another central character is Peter, a human rights lawyer who finds himself torn between two women—Sylvia, an academic in literature, and Naomi, a young university student. Sylvia, however, is living with chronic pain after an accident that has made physical intimacy impossible.

One aspect of the novel that felt underdeveloped for me was the limited exploration of physical intimacy, which seemed central to some of the characters' relationships. The reasons for this limitation could have been more deeply explored, as it left me wondering about its significance in the broader narrative.

A key plot point I particularly appreciated was the portrayal of the constraints one can feel living in a small town and the societal hypocrisy women often face, especially when it comes to age-gap relationships. Margaret and Ivan must hide their relationship and keep it secret, finding themselves having to meet in places far removed from where Margaret lives to avoid the judgment of their community. This secrecy and the emotional burden it carries are powerful elements of the story.

In contrast, Peter, when compared to Margaret, is much less concerned about the age gap between him and Naomi. Toward the end of the novel, he and Sylvia agree to have an open relationship, while his relationship with Naomi continues. His primary concern seems to be what his friends will think, unlike Margaret, who constantly worries about how her mother, colleagues, and acquaintances will judge her. This contrast highlights how different the societal expectations are for men and women, especially when it comes to romantic relationships.

I also found Margaret’s best friend to be a refreshing and charming presence in the novel. Nonjudgmental, warm, and loving, she offers Margaret a kind of support that contrasts with the more critical figures in her life. I loved the image of her riding around on a bicycle with a basket on the front—such a simple yet sweet symbol of her openness and warmth.

Overall, while the novel tackles some familiar themes, it does so in a way that feels fresh, with its nuanced character dynamics and exploration of societal pressures. What did you think of the novel? Were there any aspects of the characters or themes that stood out to you? I’d love to hear your thoughts!