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When We Were Friends
From New York Times bestselling author Jane Green comes a riveting story about a friendship that turns ugly when a woman realizes her new best friend is not what she seems.
By all accounts, Lucy’s handled her divorce well. She’s finally in the cozy, plant-filled house of her dreams. And although she doesn’t fit in with the other divorcées—all busy looking for their next ex—she’s excited to get down to earth and savor the small joys of life.
When Lucy meets Elle, a hip younger woman who shares her same passions, their connection is instant. Taking a chance on kismet, Lucy forges a friendship that fills her days with meaning. She and Elle are inseparable, from sunup to sundown, enjoying the immediate ease and familiarity of each other’s company.
But as Lucy introduces Elle to her circle, a new side of her friend appears. And try as she might, Lucy can’t ignore her misgivings. Who is Elle really? And can their all-consuming friendship survive closer inspection?
By all accounts, Lucy’s handled her divorce well. She’s finally in the cozy, plant-filled house of her dreams. And although she doesn’t fit in with the other divorcées—all busy looking for their next ex—she’s excited to get down to earth and savor the small joys of life.
When Lucy meets Elle, a hip younger woman who shares her same passions, their connection is instant. Taking a chance on kismet, Lucy forges a friendship that fills her days with meaning. She and Elle are inseparable, from sunup to sundown, enjoying the immediate ease and familiarity of each other’s company.
But as Lucy introduces Elle to her circle, a new side of her friend appears. And try as she might, Lucy can’t ignore her misgivings. Who is Elle really? And can their all-consuming friendship survive closer inspection?
43 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2024
7763 people are currently reading
8740 people want to read
About the author
Jane Green
75 books8,759 followersJane Green's twenty first novel, Sister Stardust, is out April 5th 2022.
She is the author of eighteen previous New York Times Bestselling novels, and known as one of the world's leading authors in women's fiction, with over ten million books in print, and translations in over 25 languages.
Previous novels have included The Beach House, Second Chance, Jemima J, and Tempting Fate.
She joined the ABC News team to write their first enhanced digital book— about the history of Royal marriages, then joined ABC News as a live correspondent covering Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton.
A former journalist in the UK, she has had her own radio show on BBC Radio London, and is a regular contributor on radio and TV, including as well as regularly appearing on television shows including Good Morning America, The Martha Stewart show, and The Today Show.
Together with writing books and blogs, she contributes to various publications, both online and print, including anthologies and novellas, and features for The Huffington Post, The Sunday Times, Cosmopolitan and Self. She has taught at writers conferences, and does regular keynote speaking, and has a weekly column in The Lady magazine, England’s longest running weekly magazine.
A graduate of the French Culinary Institute in New York, Green is bringing out her first cookbook: Good Taste , with Berkley in October 2016.
She is a storyteller for The Moth radio hour on NPR,
and lives in Westport, Connecticut with her husband and their blended family. When she is not writing, cooking, gardening, filling her house with friends and herding chickens, she is usually thanking the Lord for caffeine-filled energy drinks.
Jane's Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jane-Gr...
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
She is the author of eighteen previous New York Times Bestselling novels, and known as one of the world's leading authors in women's fiction, with over ten million books in print, and translations in over 25 languages.
Previous novels have included The Beach House, Second Chance, Jemima J, and Tempting Fate.
She joined the ABC News team to write their first enhanced digital book— about the history of Royal marriages, then joined ABC News as a live correspondent covering Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton.
A former journalist in the UK, she has had her own radio show on BBC Radio London, and is a regular contributor on radio and TV, including as well as regularly appearing on television shows including Good Morning America, The Martha Stewart show, and The Today Show.
Together with writing books and blogs, she contributes to various publications, both online and print, including anthologies and novellas, and features for The Huffington Post, The Sunday Times, Cosmopolitan and Self. She has taught at writers conferences, and does regular keynote speaking, and has a weekly column in The Lady magazine, England’s longest running weekly magazine.
A graduate of the French Culinary Institute in New York, Green is bringing out her first cookbook: Good Taste , with Berkley in October 2016.
She is a storyteller for The Moth radio hour on NPR,
and lives in Westport, Connecticut with her husband and their blended family. When she is not writing, cooking, gardening, filling her house with friends and herding chickens, she is usually thanking the Lord for caffeine-filled energy drinks.
Jane's Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jane-Gr...
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,645 reviews
September 7, 2024
Don’t read the synopsis!!
It’s already a short story and the synopsis practically sums up the entire thing!
Lucy is recently divorced, and mostly happy in the cozy, plant-filled house she shares with her 12 year old daughter, K.C. Sure, she is sometimes lonely, but she doesn’t fit in with the other divorcées—who seem to be busy looking for their next relationship.
So when Lucy meets Elle, a woman who shares her same passions, they form a FAST friendship. They quickly become inseparable which fills the void.
But, will Elle be a person who enters Lucy’s life for a reason? A season? Or a lifetime? (Referring to that poem by the unknown author)
You”ll find out in one sitting! (About 44 pages)
This novella is the BONUS READ if you subscribe to Amazon Prime and select an AMAZON FIRST read in September. An Amazon original story publishing on October 1, 2024.
It’s already a short story and the synopsis practically sums up the entire thing!
Lucy is recently divorced, and mostly happy in the cozy, plant-filled house she shares with her 12 year old daughter, K.C. Sure, she is sometimes lonely, but she doesn’t fit in with the other divorcées—who seem to be busy looking for their next relationship.
So when Lucy meets Elle, a woman who shares her same passions, they form a FAST friendship. They quickly become inseparable which fills the void.
But, will Elle be a person who enters Lucy’s life for a reason? A season? Or a lifetime? (Referring to that poem by the unknown author)
You”ll find out in one sitting! (About 44 pages)
This novella is the BONUS READ if you subscribe to Amazon Prime and select an AMAZON FIRST read in September. An Amazon original story publishing on October 1, 2024.
October 24, 2024
Lucy and Elle" is the kind of story that grabs you by the heartstrings and doesn’t let go. Lucy is working through a divorce when along comes Elle—a wild, ride-or-die friend who’s basically the definition of “call me if you need to hide a body.” Their bond? It’s intense, full of love, sisterhood, and that deep, unspoken loyalty only the best of friends share.
But then—BAM!—a secret explodes like a storm, shaking everything up. Suddenly, we’re hit with a hard truth about betrayal, and how one person’s actions can shatter another’s world. It’s short but hits like a punch.
But then—BAM!—a secret explodes like a storm, shaking everything up. Suddenly, we’re hit with a hard truth about betrayal, and how one person’s actions can shatter another’s world. It’s short but hits like a punch.
October 1, 2024
1.8 "thank heavens it was short short" stars !!
Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Original Stories for an ecopy. This is released today Oct 1, 2024.
I am providing an honest review.
Very good popular fiction prose of 3.5 to 4 star quality !!
A very boring, moderately cliche and mildly insipid story of two very needy and somewhat horrible women over-bonding with hurt and betrayal. Whatever !
You better believe I skimmed this one !
December 14, 2024
Not my cup of tea, but it has a good message.
I'd give this a 3.5 rating. This is a story about a woman Lucy who Is newly divorced and desperate for friendship.
I struggled with the characterization that all husbands are narcissists, looking to be single while married and controlling in this book. Coming from a woman who is married to a good man and who had am amazing father as a role model, I found it irritating and hard to digest. People who have been in this scenario will completely identify and enjoy this story much more I think.
It was an Amazon Prime bonus short read, so worth the time if you're looking to change up pace!!!
I'd give this a 3.5 rating. This is a story about a woman Lucy who Is newly divorced and desperate for friendship.
I struggled with the characterization that all husbands are narcissists, looking to be single while married and controlling in this book. Coming from a woman who is married to a good man and who had am amazing father as a role model, I found it irritating and hard to digest. People who have been in this scenario will completely identify and enjoy this story much more I think.
It was an Amazon Prime bonus short read, so worth the time if you're looking to change up pace!!!
September 2, 2024
This was a wonderful short story. It captured how love bombing doesn’t always come from romantic partners, but friends too. The intensity in the beginning and how everything seems so amazing until all of a sudden you see a side of them that you never thought you would and it continues to go downhill from there.
This book is also about addressing patterns of the type of people we are attracted to/ allow in our lives and why that may be.
Thank you to Amazon First Reads for this free advance copy.
This book is also about addressing patterns of the type of people we are attracted to/ allow in our lives and why that may be.
Thank you to Amazon First Reads for this free advance copy.
October 16, 2024
This is an Amazon short.
The story follows a friendship between two women and it begins well. As the relationship develops there are undertones of something being amiss and eventually it all collapses dramatically. The last part of the book was a little preachy for me.
This was a quick easy read with some good moments. Three stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book
The story follows a friendship between two women and it begins well. As the relationship develops there are undertones of something being amiss and eventually it all collapses dramatically. The last part of the book was a little preachy for me.
This was a quick easy read with some good moments. Three stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book
April 13, 2025
3 stars
Unfortunately, a lot of us have had friendships like this.
Unfortunately, a lot of us have had friendships like this.
September 5, 2024
My Rating: 2⭐️⭐️ very meh, if it was longer I would have given it away!!
This was a freebie from Amazon First Reads and not something I would have picked had it not been. Then I thought there might be some mystery but there wasn’t… and it was all very meh.
I was glad this was only 44 pages because I could barely handle that much. It was laboured and a bit boring… which is kind of disappointing for such a short book.
I found the characters annoying and I guess the overall message was a good one… but still definitely wasn’t a fan!
This was a freebie from Amazon First Reads and not something I would have picked had it not been. Then I thought there might be some mystery but there wasn’t… and it was all very meh.
I was glad this was only 44 pages because I could barely handle that much. It was laboured and a bit boring… which is kind of disappointing for such a short book.
I found the characters annoying and I guess the overall message was a good one… but still definitely wasn’t a fan!
October 25, 2024
Trusted Friend
Lucy has been divorced long enough to be comfortable in her new home, but not long enough to get over the loneliness of her life. Lucy has a twelve year old daughter that fills her home time, but she goes out with old friends because her life feels empty. She’s sorry to be out, because everyone seems to be busy flirting with someone and Lucy isn’t up that. Then she meets Elle in the ladies room. They both are familiar with English customs and immediately click into friendship.
Lucy and Elle’s friendship blossoms into something wonderful, and Lucy relies on Elle for someone to talk to. Then Elle does some things that Lucy finds upsetting.
This seems almost like more of an anecdote from a life than a story, but I suppose that’s what short stories are. It is well written, and maybe too real to life to be enjoyable for me. It’s sad, but ends upbeat. I gave it three and a half stars rounded up to four.
Lucy has been divorced long enough to be comfortable in her new home, but not long enough to get over the loneliness of her life. Lucy has a twelve year old daughter that fills her home time, but she goes out with old friends because her life feels empty. She’s sorry to be out, because everyone seems to be busy flirting with someone and Lucy isn’t up that. Then she meets Elle in the ladies room. They both are familiar with English customs and immediately click into friendship.
Lucy and Elle’s friendship blossoms into something wonderful, and Lucy relies on Elle for someone to talk to. Then Elle does some things that Lucy finds upsetting.
This seems almost like more of an anecdote from a life than a story, but I suppose that’s what short stories are. It is well written, and maybe too real to life to be enjoyable for me. It’s sad, but ends upbeat. I gave it three and a half stars rounded up to four.
September 3, 2024
Lazy writing, beige plot, spent the entirety of the book waiting for a character to have an intelligent or (heaven forfend) unique thought! 25 minute read of what I can only assume was a 25 hour write… vapid seems too intellectual a word to use so we’ll go with shallow.
February 2, 2025
Oh wow! I loved this book so much! It tore out my heart and then only partially put it back together!
September 21, 2024
Solid short story with a great lesson about life, self worth, and friendship. If you’re looking for a quick and easy palette cleanser that has some depth is the read for you!
September 4, 2024
3.5 rounded up
Thoughts to come ….
Thoughts to come ….
September 2, 2024
Womance Breakdown
Review of the Amazon First Reads Kindle eBook edition (September 1, 2024), released in advance of the official publication by Amazon Original Stories in eBook format & by Audible Originals in audio format (October 1, 2024)
[2.5 rounded down]
Amazon First Reads has taken to regularly including a bonus short story each month. Even if they otherwise wouldn't be of interest, I'll still take a chance on a free read. This September selection was a bit on the gushy side. Divorced single mother Lucy meets a potential BFF in younger woman Elle and the two enjoy each others company for a period of time until it all breaks down when a reveal comes along.
There were some odd hints of toxicity from Elle along the way which would have seemed to be warning signs, but they had nothing to do with the reveal which eventually happened. This was maybe a notch above a 2-star OK, but wasn't anything that special. It may speak to those who have seen an apparently strong friendship go bad for an unlikely reason.
Trivia and Links
Jane Green is from the UK and is the prolific author of 20+ novels, the most popular of which (in terms of the number of GR ratings) is Jemima J (1998) and the most recent is Sister Stardust (2022).
Amazon Prime First Reads advance reading copies (ARCs) are available to Amazon Prime subscribers. They offer advance reads of books in Kindle eBook format one month before the date of official release. The current month's selection is available here (Link goes to Amazon US, adjust for your own country or region).
You can watch for current and past Amazon Original Stories which are usually paired with their Audible Original narrations at an Amazon page here (link goes to Amazon US, adjust for your own country or region).
Review of the Amazon First Reads Kindle eBook edition (September 1, 2024), released in advance of the official publication by Amazon Original Stories in eBook format & by Audible Originals in audio format (October 1, 2024)
[2.5 rounded down]
Amazon First Reads has taken to regularly including a bonus short story each month. Even if they otherwise wouldn't be of interest, I'll still take a chance on a free read. This September selection was a bit on the gushy side. Divorced single mother Lucy meets a potential BFF in younger woman Elle and the two enjoy each others company for a period of time until it all breaks down when a reveal comes along.
There were some odd hints of toxicity from Elle along the way which would have seemed to be warning signs, but they had nothing to do with the reveal which eventually happened. This was maybe a notch above a 2-star OK, but wasn't anything that special. It may speak to those who have seen an apparently strong friendship go bad for an unlikely reason.
Trivia and Links
Jane Green is from the UK and is the prolific author of 20+ novels, the most popular of which (in terms of the number of GR ratings) is Jemima J (1998) and the most recent is Sister Stardust (2022).
Amazon Prime First Reads advance reading copies (ARCs) are available to Amazon Prime subscribers. They offer advance reads of books in Kindle eBook format one month before the date of official release. The current month's selection is available here (Link goes to Amazon US, adjust for your own country or region).
You can watch for current and past Amazon Original Stories which are usually paired with their Audible Original narrations at an Amazon page here (link goes to Amazon US, adjust for your own country or region).
October 3, 2024
A fast-paced short story that took me on a whirlwind of female friendship and "love-bombing". I love Jane Green's books but I couldn't really relate with the main character's desperation to find a close friend (despite having a lifelong friend living abroad).
September 30, 2024
You know that feeling when you meet someone and just click? The instant connection, the shared laughs, the sense that you've known each other forever? It's magical, right? But what happens when that seemingly perfect friendship takes a dark turn? Jane Green's latest novella, "When We Were Friends," dives headfirst into this murky territory, serving up a cautionary tale that'll have you side-eyeing your besties (just kidding... or am I?).
The Lowdown: What's It All About?
Lucy's fresh out of a divorce, living her best plant mom life in her dream house. She's not exactly vibing with the local divorcée scene—all those ladies hunting for their next ex-hubby? Not her cup of tea. Enter Elle: young, hip, and apparently Lucy's long-lost soul sister. They hit it off faster than you can say "BFFs forever," and before you know it, they're joined at the hip.
But hold up, folks. As Lucy introduces Elle to her inner circle, things start getting... weird. Elle's showing a side that's less "new bestie" and more "who the heck are you?" Lucy's got a gut feeling something's off, but can she trust her instincts? Or is she about to learn the hard way that some friendships are too good to be true?
The Good, The Bad, and The "Oh No She Didn't!"
What's Cooking, Good Looking?
Jane Green's got that secret sauce when it comes to whipping up relatable characters. Lucy? She's like that friend you want to grab a coffee with and spill all the tea. The way Green captures the excitement of a new friendship – it's spot on. You'll be nodding along, thinking, "Yep, been there, done that, got the matching friendship bracelets."
And can we talk about the pacing? This novella moves faster than gossip in a small town. It's a quick read, perfect for a lazy afternoon or a commute where you need something juicier than your average Instagram scroll.
The Not-So-Sweet Stuff
Now, I'm not saying it's all sunshine and rainbows. Some might find the plot a tad predictable. If you've read your fair share of psychological thrillers or watched a Lifetime movie or two, you might see where this train's headed before it pulls into the station.
Also, character development? It's there, but it's not exactly deep-diving into the Mariana Trench of personalities. But hey, it's a novella—we're here for the drama, not a 500-page character study.
The "You've Got to Read This" Bits
Friendship Red Flags: A PSA
Green's got a knack for highlighting those subtle red flags in friendships that we often brush off. You know, the little things that make you go "Hmm..." but you ignore because, well, you're having too much fun. It's like a masterclass in "Trust Your Gut 101."
The Relatability Factor
Let's be real—who hasn't had a friendship that went south? Green taps into that universal experience, making you reflect on your own relationships. It's uncomfortably relatable at times, in the best way possible.
A Page-Turner with a Purpose
This isn't just fluff, folks. Green sneaks in some solid nuggets about self-worth, trust, and the importance of boundaries. It's like getting life advice from your savvy aunt who's seen it all—entertaining and enlightening.
The Verdict: To Read or Not to Read?
Look, if you're in the mood for a breezy read that'll have you texting your bestie "OMG, you've got to read this!" – this is your jam. It's perfect for book clubs (hello, discussion fodder!) or a solo reading session where you want to feel all the feels without committing to a doorstop of a novel.
"When We Were Friends" isn't reinventing the wheel, but it's taking that wheel for a spin down Friendship Lane, with a detour through Trust Issues Avenue. It's a reminder that sometimes, the people we let closest to us are the ones we should keep at arm's length.
So, grab a copy, curl up with your favorite blanket (and maybe your most trustworthy friend), and dive in. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself giving your social circle a once-over when you're done.
The "If You Liked This, Try That" Corner
Hungry for more friendship drama? Check out Green's earlier works like "Jemima J" or "To Have and to Hold." Or if you're in the mood for similar vibes from other authors, give "Big Little Lies" by Liane Moriarty a whirl.
Final Thoughts: The Friendship Hangover
Jane Green's "When We Were Friends" is like that friend who shows up with a bottle of wine and juicy gossip—it's a good time, even if you feel a little conflicted the next day. It'll make you laugh, cringe, and maybe side-eye your phone the next time a new friend request pops up.
So, dear readers, are you ready to dive into this friendship rollercoaster? Just remember – sometimes the wildest rides come disguised as the smoothest sailing. Happy reading, and may all your friendships be true (and drama-free)!
Quick Hits for the Skimmers
Readability: Smoother than your favorite latte
age-Turner Factor: You might miss your stop on the train
Friend-Sharing Potential: High (but choose wisely!)
Thought-Provoking Level: More than you'd expect from a quick read
Beach Read Rating: Perfect for that long weekend getaway
Remember, folks—friends are like books. Some are classics, some are quick reads, and some... well, some you should probably leave on the shelf. Choose wisely, and happy reading!
The Lowdown: What's It All About?
Lucy's fresh out of a divorce, living her best plant mom life in her dream house. She's not exactly vibing with the local divorcée scene—all those ladies hunting for their next ex-hubby? Not her cup of tea. Enter Elle: young, hip, and apparently Lucy's long-lost soul sister. They hit it off faster than you can say "BFFs forever," and before you know it, they're joined at the hip.
But hold up, folks. As Lucy introduces Elle to her inner circle, things start getting... weird. Elle's showing a side that's less "new bestie" and more "who the heck are you?" Lucy's got a gut feeling something's off, but can she trust her instincts? Or is she about to learn the hard way that some friendships are too good to be true?
The Good, The Bad, and The "Oh No She Didn't!"
What's Cooking, Good Looking?
Jane Green's got that secret sauce when it comes to whipping up relatable characters. Lucy? She's like that friend you want to grab a coffee with and spill all the tea. The way Green captures the excitement of a new friendship – it's spot on. You'll be nodding along, thinking, "Yep, been there, done that, got the matching friendship bracelets."
And can we talk about the pacing? This novella moves faster than gossip in a small town. It's a quick read, perfect for a lazy afternoon or a commute where you need something juicier than your average Instagram scroll.
The Not-So-Sweet Stuff
Now, I'm not saying it's all sunshine and rainbows. Some might find the plot a tad predictable. If you've read your fair share of psychological thrillers or watched a Lifetime movie or two, you might see where this train's headed before it pulls into the station.
Also, character development? It's there, but it's not exactly deep-diving into the Mariana Trench of personalities. But hey, it's a novella—we're here for the drama, not a 500-page character study.
The "You've Got to Read This" Bits
Friendship Red Flags: A PSA
Green's got a knack for highlighting those subtle red flags in friendships that we often brush off. You know, the little things that make you go "Hmm..." but you ignore because, well, you're having too much fun. It's like a masterclass in "Trust Your Gut 101."
The Relatability Factor
Let's be real—who hasn't had a friendship that went south? Green taps into that universal experience, making you reflect on your own relationships. It's uncomfortably relatable at times, in the best way possible.
A Page-Turner with a Purpose
This isn't just fluff, folks. Green sneaks in some solid nuggets about self-worth, trust, and the importance of boundaries. It's like getting life advice from your savvy aunt who's seen it all—entertaining and enlightening.
The Verdict: To Read or Not to Read?
Look, if you're in the mood for a breezy read that'll have you texting your bestie "OMG, you've got to read this!" – this is your jam. It's perfect for book clubs (hello, discussion fodder!) or a solo reading session where you want to feel all the feels without committing to a doorstop of a novel.
"When We Were Friends" isn't reinventing the wheel, but it's taking that wheel for a spin down Friendship Lane, with a detour through Trust Issues Avenue. It's a reminder that sometimes, the people we let closest to us are the ones we should keep at arm's length.
So, grab a copy, curl up with your favorite blanket (and maybe your most trustworthy friend), and dive in. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself giving your social circle a once-over when you're done.
The "If You Liked This, Try That" Corner
Hungry for more friendship drama? Check out Green's earlier works like "Jemima J" or "To Have and to Hold." Or if you're in the mood for similar vibes from other authors, give "Big Little Lies" by Liane Moriarty a whirl.
Final Thoughts: The Friendship Hangover
Jane Green's "When We Were Friends" is like that friend who shows up with a bottle of wine and juicy gossip—it's a good time, even if you feel a little conflicted the next day. It'll make you laugh, cringe, and maybe side-eye your phone the next time a new friend request pops up.
So, dear readers, are you ready to dive into this friendship rollercoaster? Just remember – sometimes the wildest rides come disguised as the smoothest sailing. Happy reading, and may all your friendships be true (and drama-free)!
Quick Hits for the Skimmers
Readability: Smoother than your favorite latte
age-Turner Factor: You might miss your stop on the train
Friend-Sharing Potential: High (but choose wisely!)
Thought-Provoking Level: More than you'd expect from a quick read
Beach Read Rating: Perfect for that long weekend getaway
Remember, folks—friends are like books. Some are classics, some are quick reads, and some... well, some you should probably leave on the shelf. Choose wisely, and happy reading!
October 3, 2024
This seems to be a "love or hate" short story. People who haven't experienced something similar, or who may be a different personality type than the main character, probably won't particularly like this story. I liked it. I actually had a very similar experience. It didn't end the same way. That was a tad dramatic. In my case, I simply put my guard back up and continued the friendship on a different level. Disappointing, but not worth crying over.
August 30, 2024
This was a compelling short story about female friendship, divorce, and trusting yourself.
Synospsis:
Lucy is newly divorced and has a twelve year old daughter. She meets Elle during a girl’s night out and they become fast friends despite the age difference. Lucy finds herself in a toxic friendship.
My thoughts:
I connected with thisi story on so many levels. First, I am recently divorced and I remember the first time I opened my heart to someone else which was romanitically not platonic as in Lucy’s case, but it hurt greatly when it didn’t work out. Like Lucy I have also been love bombed. Lucy was smart in the way that she extricated herself from the relationship and sought help from a therapist. I thought once I was divorced I’d be able to depend more on friends but I’m still finding many of my friends even those of a similar age are very busy with raising their families.. I once read a quote ( I wish I could remember it exactly ) that having a new female friend is as exciting to women as a new romantic partner. Thank you Jane Green for writing about female friendship and the importance it plays in our lives.
Synospsis:
Lucy is newly divorced and has a twelve year old daughter. She meets Elle during a girl’s night out and they become fast friends despite the age difference. Lucy finds herself in a toxic friendship.
My thoughts:
I connected with thisi story on so many levels. First, I am recently divorced and I remember the first time I opened my heart to someone else which was romanitically not platonic as in Lucy’s case, but it hurt greatly when it didn’t work out. Like Lucy I have also been love bombed. Lucy was smart in the way that she extricated herself from the relationship and sought help from a therapist. I thought once I was divorced I’d be able to depend more on friends but I’m still finding many of my friends even those of a similar age are very busy with raising their families.. I once read a quote ( I wish I could remember it exactly ) that having a new female friend is as exciting to women as a new romantic partner. Thank you Jane Green for writing about female friendship and the importance it plays in our lives.
September 2, 2024
Very shallow superficial book even for a short story. I deleted from kindle after reading
September 4, 2024
Don’t bother.
November 22, 2024
3 Stars for When We Were Friends (audiobook) by Jane Green read by Lucy Rayner.
Two women become fast friends until one betrays the other.
Two women become fast friends until one betrays the other.
September 4, 2024
Yeesh! The first 15% of this short story is so poorly written, it’s a wonder anyone continues reading. The grammar is a jumbled mess of comma errors, fragments and bizarre colloquial shortcuts dropped into the dialogue. It does get marginally better but good grief, if a publisher is going to incur the expense of publishing a title, however long it is, PLEASE hire an editor that has a clue!
Rant over.
WHEN WE WERE FRIENDS is a story that will have limited relevance. Unless you have experienced the all consuming pain of a friendship like the one between these two characters, the events that take place will not seem realistic. You might find these characters overly dramatic or the writing being targeted towards a tv script.
All consuming, codependent, unhealthy dependent…there are so many buzz phrases for these relationships. They occupy your every waking moment AND your rest, what little of it there is. When the relationship fractures and there is no reason, at least none you understand, you are rendered emotionally disabled. With luck, you can function at work and in your family/home. Author, Jane Green, gets this right. Been there, done that, my T-shirt is 40 years old but not totally faded…
At this point in the story, the writing is improved. Unfortunately, it’s the last few pages. Kudos for the positive spin on counseling and showing an healthy relationship’s dialogue. It garnered an extra star for the mostly dismal writing and editing.
Even with the underwhelming writing, this could be an important story for those dealing with a broken friendship 📚
Rant over.
WHEN WE WERE FRIENDS is a story that will have limited relevance. Unless you have experienced the all consuming pain of a friendship like the one between these two characters, the events that take place will not seem realistic. You might find these characters overly dramatic or the writing being targeted towards a tv script.
All consuming, codependent, unhealthy dependent…there are so many buzz phrases for these relationships. They occupy your every waking moment AND your rest, what little of it there is. When the relationship fractures and there is no reason, at least none you understand, you are rendered emotionally disabled. With luck, you can function at work and in your family/home. Author, Jane Green, gets this right. Been there, done that, my T-shirt is 40 years old but not totally faded…
At this point in the story, the writing is improved. Unfortunately, it’s the last few pages. Kudos for the positive spin on counseling and showing an healthy relationship’s dialogue. It garnered an extra star for the mostly dismal writing and editing.
Even with the underwhelming writing, this could be an important story for those dealing with a broken friendship 📚
October 13, 2024
Girl. Friend. Girlfriend.
The cautionary tale.
The cautionary tale.
March 3, 2025
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ rating: 3/5
i feel like i’m finally out of my reading slump! sometimes all it takes is a couple of short stories, and boom—i’m back.
this story was okay! the plot follows lucy, a forty-year-old single mom who feels lost after her marriage. with her best friend living hundreds of miles away in the uk, she misses having someone by her side to talk to and spend time with. enter elle, whose arrival turns into an absolute disaster...
at the start, i wasn’t 100% sure where the story was heading—mainly because i’m not a girl who reads synopses. i found myself wondering: are they going to become lovers? is elle going to turn into a stalker? by the halfway point, i had a strong guess about the issue in this friendship, and i was right: the ultimate betrayal, the ultimate friendship heartbreak.
for a short story that only took about an hour to read, it was decently good. however, there were definitely some dull moments where i caught myself wondering when it would finally be over. overall, 3 stars feels about right!
i feel like i’m finally out of my reading slump! sometimes all it takes is a couple of short stories, and boom—i’m back.
this story was okay! the plot follows lucy, a forty-year-old single mom who feels lost after her marriage. with her best friend living hundreds of miles away in the uk, she misses having someone by her side to talk to and spend time with. enter elle, whose arrival turns into an absolute disaster...
at the start, i wasn’t 100% sure where the story was heading—mainly because i’m not a girl who reads synopses. i found myself wondering: are they going to become lovers? is elle going to turn into a stalker? by the halfway point, i had a strong guess about the issue in this friendship, and i was right: the ultimate betrayal, the ultimate friendship heartbreak.
for a short story that only took about an hour to read, it was decently good. however, there were definitely some dull moments where i caught myself wondering when it would finally be over. overall, 3 stars feels about right!
October 7, 2024
When We Were Friends is a short story by best-selling British journalist and author, Jane Green. When Lucy, a recently-divorced mother of twelve-year-old KC, encounters Elle, quite by chance, in a hotel bathroom, she’s surprised and delighted by how rapidly they establish a rapport. Her best friend Sally is back in England and busy with husband and children. The intensity is exciting, even a little frightening, but Lucy soon discards her usual wariness and is wholeheartedly invested in their friendship. Until something changes: a shocking, unforgiveable betrayal…
A thought-provoking tale that will resonate with women with certain circumstances.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Amazon Original Stories.
A thought-provoking tale that will resonate with women with certain circumstances.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Amazon Original Stories.
September 2, 2024
the vibes in this were so weird?? wdym she's like your sister but it's also romantic?
June 27, 2025
A relatable story with very relatable characters, heart-wrenching, hopeful and so well written!
When Lucy, a recent divorcie, meets Elle it's love / friendship at first sight.
She's not lonely anymore and the sun shines with happiness every single day!
They have the same passion, gardening, like the same things, talk about everything and anything, they became inseparable!
And one day they are no more!
Betrayal, angry words, lies, ghosting, Elle disappears from Lucy's life, her heart broken in so many pieces she doesn't think she will be a whole person again! 💔💔
But one thing she's certain of!
She will never forgive the way she was treated so badly by someone she loved and trusted!
NEVER AGAIN!
When Lucy, a recent divorcie, meets Elle it's love / friendship at first sight.
She's not lonely anymore and the sun shines with happiness every single day!
They have the same passion, gardening, like the same things, talk about everything and anything, they became inseparable!
And one day they are no more!
Betrayal, angry words, lies, ghosting, Elle disappears from Lucy's life, her heart broken in so many pieces she doesn't think she will be a whole person again! 💔💔
But one thing she's certain of!
She will never forgive the way she was treated so badly by someone she loved and trusted!
NEVER AGAIN!
August 30, 2024
WHEN WE WERE FRIENDS: A Short Story
By Jane Green
When We Were Friends by Jane Green is a short story / novella that I went in blind. I have been a fan of Green’s books for years now, so I am excited to jump into these Amazon Original Stories.
I found the writing immersive and quite addicting, and how Jane Green developed the characters with that atmospheric vibe was exceptional. I found it thrilling to read right from the very beginning where the insta- friendship and the immediate connection started, I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and did it ever!
I cannot wait to read more of these stories.
By Jane Green
When We Were Friends by Jane Green is a short story / novella that I went in blind. I have been a fan of Green’s books for years now, so I am excited to jump into these Amazon Original Stories.
I found the writing immersive and quite addicting, and how Jane Green developed the characters with that atmospheric vibe was exceptional. I found it thrilling to read right from the very beginning where the insta- friendship and the immediate connection started, I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and did it ever!
I cannot wait to read more of these stories.
October 18, 2024
I’d never heard of Jane Green when I was offered this free ebook. I didn’t realise that she is a very successful author and one of the founders of the chick lit movement. I also didn’t know that chick lit was a movement! I’ve never read any but I’m not dismissing it as a genre as I’m in no position to judge.
This short story starts off well enough. Many women have intense friendships with other women to the point that they become all-consuming and so it’s easy to identify with Lucy who quickly - too quickly - develops such a friendship with Elle, a younger woman she meets in a bar. It’s not a spoiler (because it’s in the blurb) to say that Elle is not what she seems and that Lucy finds this out the hard way. The ending is, quite frankly, lame and reminds me of stories I read in Jackie when I was at school. Finding out that Green is or has been an advice columnist made perfect sense to me by the end of the story.
Although it drew me in at first, this short story is nothing more than a generous 2.5 stars for me. Although the author is successful, it is very amateurish writing.
This short story starts off well enough. Many women have intense friendships with other women to the point that they become all-consuming and so it’s easy to identify with Lucy who quickly - too quickly - develops such a friendship with Elle, a younger woman she meets in a bar. It’s not a spoiler (because it’s in the blurb) to say that Elle is not what she seems and that Lucy finds this out the hard way. The ending is, quite frankly, lame and reminds me of stories I read in Jackie when I was at school. Finding out that Green is or has been an advice columnist made perfect sense to me by the end of the story.
Although it drew me in at first, this short story is nothing more than a generous 2.5 stars for me. Although the author is successful, it is very amateurish writing.
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