... an homage to female friendships — the ones often taken for granted but most needed during tough times. The banter amongst these friends will make you want to text the best friend you haven’t spoken to in weeks, just to remind them that you’re thinking of them. While all of the women bring diverse backgrounds and identities (including Melissa’s Jewish heritage), they all reach a common consensus: being a woman is hard. It’s easy to catch glimpses of oneself in any of them ... At the core of the novel, readers will discover a way of redefining what it means for a woman to have it all in today’s world. Friedland does an excellent job of portraying each character’s journey toward self-kindness as she pursues second chances in love, work, and motherhood. The Most Likely Club will without a doubt make readers of all ages feel a range of emotions, but Friedland infuses so much humor that the book is a constant source of joy.
Friedland adeptly captures the conflicting feelings of excitement and dread one feels ahead of a reunion, as well as the weird in-betweenness of early middle age. Though frequently light and funny (the ‘90s references come fast and furious), the book doesn’t shy away from heavier themes ... a celebration of embracing all the ways your life derails—and the friends who help you along the way.
... delightful ... A lot of the details are delivered in exposition ... a glut of 1990s references eventually slips into overkill. Still, Friedland keeps up a steady supply of clever lines to convey the women’s mix of excitement and dread over the big event ... The author also does a good job with the heavier themes—in addition to the racism and sexism, there are nuanced accounts of Tara’s sexual assault and Melissa’s eating disorder. Overall, this strikes a fine balance between lighthearted and serious.
