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Is This Love?

Longlisted for the 2023 Polari First Book Prize
By C. E. Riley
0.0 (0 reviews)
3.55 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating. ( 340 ratings, 71 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Is This Love? by C. E. Riley explores the intricate dynamics of a contemporary relationship facing trials and tribulations. Set against a backdrop of modern life, the story delves into the emotional complexities of love, trust, and the challenges that test the bond between two people. The narrative presents a thoughtful examination of the nature of commitment and the struggles that accompany it.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$2499
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy exploring complex emotional landscapes and engaging with narratives that delve into the intricacies of modern relationships. It's perfect for readers who appreciate well-drawn characters navigating the nuanced challenges of love, identity, and personal discovery in a contemporary setting.

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A searing literary debut with the compulsive qualities of a thriller

A searing literary debut with the compulsive qualities of a thriller

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

'This is a book about the untidy, complicated underbelly of love and love's end. Funny and true, wise and utterly authentic, you will recognise yourself over and over. I loved it.' Kit de Waal

Did you mean to marry me?
Did you understand the vows that we took?

J's wife has left, and J is trying to understand why. How could someone you loved so much, who claimed to love you once, just walk away? How could they send divorce papers accusing you of terrible things, when all you've ever done is tried to make them happy?

Narrated by J in the days, weeks and months after the marriage collapses, and interspersed with the departed wife's diary entries, Is This Love? is an addictive, deeply unsettling, and provocative novel of deception and betrayal, and passion turned to pain. As the story unfolds, and each character's version of events undermines the other, all our assumptions about victimhood, agency, love and control are challenged — for we never know J's gender. If we did, would it change our minds about who was telling the truth?

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Is This Love? by C. E. Riley is described as a compelling and unsettling examination of a marriage falling apart. Praised for its wit and complexity, the book navigates dark and timely themes with raw honesty and sensitivity. It vividly explores the emotions and entanglements behind anger and misinterpreted desires, leaving readers captivated by its intensity and insight.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781800810297

Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 22 June 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Serpent's Tail

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 16.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 180g

Pages: 224

Collections

C. E. Riley Fiction General Fiction Literary Fiction

About the Author

C. E. Riley is a writer and director of the literary festival, Primadonna, which is described as 'books, with a little bit of rock'n'roll' - a festival that showcases established and emerging voices that aren't heard enough in the mainstream. She lives in London, and has previously published two works of non-fiction. Is This Love? is her debut novel.

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