Love by the Book

George (Maame) chronicles the unexpected and fraught friendship of two London women in her sharp latest. Novelist Remy Baidoo, 30, has never had much interest in traditional romance, garnering all the support and love she needs from her friend group, who inspired her first book. But as she struggles to write her next novel, the women begin fading from her life. In contrast, schoolteacher Simone Beduah, 29, has convinced herself she doesn’t need friends. Then her religious family disowns her after discovering she’s also a sex worker. When they run into each other at a literary event, Remy, whose inclination to overshare runs on overdrive, forms an unlikely bond with quiet introvert Simone. As their friendship deepens, Remy discovers she’s pregnant from a one-night stand despite being told earlier by a doctor that she can’t get pregnant, and Simone realizes Remy has secretly been writing about their friendship. The revelations force both women to make tough decisions about trust and their futures. While some of the plot turns feel too convenient, George offers a fresh perspective on female friendship, showing that “platonic love can be incredibly romantic.” Fans of the author’s celebrated debut will find much to enjoy. Agent: Michelle Brower, Trellis Literary Management. (Apr.)