That’s Not a Thing

This tender, introspective romance from Friedland (Trouble the Water) hangs on the difficult choice between new and old lovers. Junior lawyer Meredith Altman is happily engaged to pediatric surgeon Aaron Rapp when, while contemplating wedding venues in New York City, she runs into her ex-fiancé, Wesley Latner. Their encounter triggers romantic memories of the life they dreamed of having before their wedding was upended by personal tragedy. Meredith’s emotions are further muddled when Wesley tells her he’s been diagnosed with ALS. As Meredith struggles to understand her feelings for both men, she also begins to doubt her unfulfilling role in the corporate world and questions what she really wants from life. Friedland teases readers with Meredith’s choice between partners, managing to make her indecision and self-doubt both humorous and endearing. Hints about the actual reason Wesley and Meredith broke up in the first place will keep readers turning the pages. Friedland’s treatment of Wesley’s ALS is duly respectful and well done, and Meredith’s desire to care for him is palpable. Fans of sensitively handled love triangles should snap this one up. (Apr)