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Friends With Issues
Publishing January 24, 2023.
Three-time-Emmy nominee and former editor-in-chief of “Seventeen Magazine” and “Soap Opera Digest” Meredith Berlin is releasing her debut women’s fiction, Friends With Issues, which follows three glamorous, self-made women in their 40s who gamble with love, sex and their careers in NYC and L.A., as one charismatic man captivates them all.
A poignant page-turner, Friends With Issues follows Brooke, Elizabeth, and Susan, three friends who have made their mark on Manhattan but who now struggle with the daily balancing act of career, family and friendship. Brooke thought she married the man of her dreams, but now she’s questioning her marriage as she embarks on a new venture to Hollywood. After a shattering diagnosis, Elizabeth attempts to remake herself in order to hold on to some semblance of her identity. Susan should be ecstatic when her media mogul husband catapults them into financial security, but as her uncertainty about their relationship grows, she opens a Pandora’s box of new passion–leading to stunning revelations neither saw coming.
In Meredith Berlin’s provocative debut these women discover that their lives and identities can transform regardless of age, achievement, or status-––and money doesn’t protect you from the unimaginable. Fans of Little Fires Everywhere, novels by Liane Moriarty, and Valley of the Dolls will devour this absorbing drama to its powerful end.
Three-time-Emmy nominee and former editor-in-chief of “Seventeen Magazine” and “Soap Opera Digest” Meredith Berlin is releasing her debut women’s fiction, Friends With Issues, which follows three glamorous, self-made women in their 40s who gamble with love, sex and their careers in NYC and L.A., as one charismatic man captivates them all.
A poignant page-turner, Friends With Issues follows Brooke, Elizabeth, and Susan, three friends who have made their mark on Manhattan but who now struggle with the daily balancing act of career, family and friendship. Brooke thought she married the man of her dreams, but now she’s questioning her marriage as she embarks on a new venture to Hollywood. After a shattering diagnosis, Elizabeth attempts to remake herself in order to hold on to some semblance of her identity. Susan should be ecstatic when her media mogul husband catapults them into financial security, but as her uncertainty about their relationship grows, she opens a Pandora’s box of new passion–leading to stunning revelations neither saw coming.
In Meredith Berlin’s provocative debut these women discover that their lives and identities can transform regardless of age, achievement, or status-––and money doesn’t protect you from the unimaginable. Fans of Little Fires Everywhere, novels by Liane Moriarty, and Valley of the Dolls will devour this absorbing drama to its powerful end.
- GenresFictionContemporary
302 pages, Paperback
Published January 24, 2023
1 person is currently reading
2709 people want to read
About the author
Meredith Berlin
3 books16 followersMeredith Berlin was the editor-in-chief of several magazines, including Soap Opera Digest and Seventeen. Her freelance articles and profiles have appeared in dozens of newspapers and magazines. Meredith is a three-time Emmy-nominated executive producer and has been a regular on-air contributor to television news and entertainment shows. Like a few of her characters, she worked as a jeweler and lived in the northern suburbs of New York City. Meredith has been married for over thirty years and has three adult children and one perfect granddaughter. Like many former New Yorkers, she currently lives in Florida. This is her first novel.
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February 3, 2023
I have always loved to go back in time and, the further, the better. However, when it comes to the nineties, I haven't ever traveled back and had as much fun as I did when I read Friends With Issues. This book, written by Meredith Berlin, illustrates three couples, six people who have been friends for a while, some longer than others. Many of them merge together, build friendships, relationships with one another, and the book describes a period in time, during those friendships.
I strongly suspect since the author was an editor in chief for several magazines in New York, along with what she does in her free time, her hobbies and things that have turned profitable or fun, for her, many of the characters in Friends With Issues, have qualities that reflect things that the writer knows about, her life experiences. As good writers know, it never hurts to take parts of yourself and throw them into characters, as I think (as a reader and also a writer myself, only, without the success, yet) this makes them more genuine, more real. And Berlin’s characters in Friends with Issues all seem to reflect something of herself and is a major reason, I believe, the book was a good, fun and fresh read.
First readers meet Suzanne and Nick Gallagher. As individuals and a pair, they seem super fantastic people and a pair, like a functional grandfather clock. But, despite their success as a couple, they have both lost their romantic interest in one another. Through their years together, while they developed an extreme respect for one another, are great parents and have deep love for one another, when it comes to the attachment to one another they have romantically, sexually, there is nothing left there. There is absolutely nothing going on in their bed but sleep. It doesn't help that, years ago, Suzanne no longer wanted to share a marriage bed with Nick and left it to him to find other women to fill that need, for him. While Nick shares a bed with other women, in all that time, Suzanne was still the partner and love he returned home to. It is only when Suzanne realizes and acknowledges that she desires a different type of partner, a woman rather than a man, that things with them might come to an end. Not their partnership but, rather, their daily lives together.
Nick has also met someone. Someone who he likes in bed but, for the first time, wants to spend time outside of just sleeping with the woman, wants more of a life with her. A best friend of a best friend. And, a part of the group of six. She is married, too. So, if Suzanne was to want something else, the fact that Nick may want more in his life now, a partner who he is romantically linked to, Nick might end things and start elsewhere. They are the type of people who have been together long enough, respect and love one another enough to always remain friends and part amicably But, in the end, they have a daughter and are happy with their life. Do they really want to end it for the unknown?
When readers first meet the problematic couple (couple number #2, in the book), Brooke and Tripp, there are many problems brewing. But, they are not at a point where Brooke wants to leave. Tripp has had many health issues in the past and with a heart attack at the young age of thirty seven while she may be unhappily married, but she is more scared for her husband than thinking about leaving him. That is, however, until she meets Nick at a dinner party where the three couples all are together for the first time.
Something happens that finally pushes Brooke overboard. While struggling, wondering why Tripp is having so many health issues she is reminded of his past drug issues. Brooke’s suspicion deepens when she looks at all his problems and his behavior, how he sits around the house all day in rumpled, old clothes, never getting dressed at all; their bedroom so dirty and dangerous that the maid was stabbed by a knife in a place a knife had no place being, that he refuses to go anywhere and if he does never for long, has no desire to work. Finally, she concludes that he must be doing drugs again. And when that fact is confirmed she is shocked, amazed and ready for divorce. Finally she feels free of Tripp. Because what person ever thought to find themself married to a heroin addict? With everything that has gone on, and going on for too long, when an affair presents itself with Nick, knowing the marriage is all but dead, waiting for a divorce lawyer to help seal the deal, Brooke dives into the man and learns what real sex, good sex is like. Poor girl.
Like every reader should be, I wasn't amazed that Brooke found a keeper in bed, when it came to the married Nick but his own wife, Suzanne, no longer wanted to have Nick in bed with her. Berlin really created a giving character, in Nick, when it came to the pleasure Brooke finds in sleeping with the man. I don’t know why or how Suzanne could turn him down as Brooke seemed more than pleased. As women we all know how one man can be another’s garbage (or divorcee) and others Olympian Gold in bed. Each time it happens, it always makes me shake my head and wonder. But, when Suzanne crawls into her trainer's bed, another woman, along with the small thoughts she has shared with readers about feelings she had about other women growing up, it's a wonder Suzanne didn't catch on sooner, that she wanted her same sex in bed with her and not a man.
Then there is Elizabeth (a part of couple #3). While having a great marriage, being successful in her magazine publishing career, though having it all together, should be the one who is falling apart. And, by the end of the book, may very well do so. Because she has recently been diagnosed with MS and the symptoms of it have been getting worse, at times. She hadn’t even been working because of it. That is, until Nick buys a new magazine called Sound, that he wants to turn into another success. And, when he asks Elizabeth to join and she does, will working in the city, all the strain of the work and her home life be too much? Will it be the magazine, and Nick, that will push her over the edge, only to make her sicker? And, for some reason, everyone seems to turn to her, to divulge secrets she does not want to know. As overwhelming as they all are, will all this be too much, and make her bust? Everyone seems to forget how fragile their friend really is.
However Elizabeth too, has a secret. Something that drives her nuts about her husband, something she has a hard time talking about. And it's the issue that is usually “the issue”, when it comes to couples. Sex. Danny, her husband, doesn't always give it to her when she wants. He turns her one and then, panting, when she asks for it, he only leaves her to wait and wait. But why should a woman be continually waiting? With all the stress and strain Elizabeth goes through with her MS sex should be easy. But, Elizabeth and Danny are the perfect couple? Aren’t they?
Not wanting to spoil the book for others, not wanting to peel back the curtain too far, Friends With Issues must be read to find out what happens with all these friends (and issues). Meredith Berlin introduced me to characters, Nick, Brooke, Suzanne, and Elizabeth that I, at the end of the book, felt like I was friends with them too. Friends With Issues felt personal to me as it reminded me of so many things about life in general, and my life, too. And, these were really great people to get to know, these friends with flaws and bad habits, but, also, kindness and beauty. One day I hope to meet them again and see how they are doing. Oddly, after I was done I knew I would miss them and think of them, from time to time. While I want to say here, “if you want to miss them too”, (read the book) but, who likes to miss anyone, after all? However bookwise, when you miss a character, you know you have read a good, lasting book that stays with you long after you put it away. And with Berlin’s next book, who knows, I might meet them again or someone like them, that I will find friendship and fun with all over again. Until that time…
Happy Reading!
I strongly suspect since the author was an editor in chief for several magazines in New York, along with what she does in her free time, her hobbies and things that have turned profitable or fun, for her, many of the characters in Friends With Issues, have qualities that reflect things that the writer knows about, her life experiences. As good writers know, it never hurts to take parts of yourself and throw them into characters, as I think (as a reader and also a writer myself, only, without the success, yet) this makes them more genuine, more real. And Berlin’s characters in Friends with Issues all seem to reflect something of herself and is a major reason, I believe, the book was a good, fun and fresh read.
First readers meet Suzanne and Nick Gallagher. As individuals and a pair, they seem super fantastic people and a pair, like a functional grandfather clock. But, despite their success as a couple, they have both lost their romantic interest in one another. Through their years together, while they developed an extreme respect for one another, are great parents and have deep love for one another, when it comes to the attachment to one another they have romantically, sexually, there is nothing left there. There is absolutely nothing going on in their bed but sleep. It doesn't help that, years ago, Suzanne no longer wanted to share a marriage bed with Nick and left it to him to find other women to fill that need, for him. While Nick shares a bed with other women, in all that time, Suzanne was still the partner and love he returned home to. It is only when Suzanne realizes and acknowledges that she desires a different type of partner, a woman rather than a man, that things with them might come to an end. Not their partnership but, rather, their daily lives together.
Nick has also met someone. Someone who he likes in bed but, for the first time, wants to spend time outside of just sleeping with the woman, wants more of a life with her. A best friend of a best friend. And, a part of the group of six. She is married, too. So, if Suzanne was to want something else, the fact that Nick may want more in his life now, a partner who he is romantically linked to, Nick might end things and start elsewhere. They are the type of people who have been together long enough, respect and love one another enough to always remain friends and part amicably But, in the end, they have a daughter and are happy with their life. Do they really want to end it for the unknown?
When readers first meet the problematic couple (couple number #2, in the book), Brooke and Tripp, there are many problems brewing. But, they are not at a point where Brooke wants to leave. Tripp has had many health issues in the past and with a heart attack at the young age of thirty seven while she may be unhappily married, but she is more scared for her husband than thinking about leaving him. That is, however, until she meets Nick at a dinner party where the three couples all are together for the first time.
Something happens that finally pushes Brooke overboard. While struggling, wondering why Tripp is having so many health issues she is reminded of his past drug issues. Brooke’s suspicion deepens when she looks at all his problems and his behavior, how he sits around the house all day in rumpled, old clothes, never getting dressed at all; their bedroom so dirty and dangerous that the maid was stabbed by a knife in a place a knife had no place being, that he refuses to go anywhere and if he does never for long, has no desire to work. Finally, she concludes that he must be doing drugs again. And when that fact is confirmed she is shocked, amazed and ready for divorce. Finally she feels free of Tripp. Because what person ever thought to find themself married to a heroin addict? With everything that has gone on, and going on for too long, when an affair presents itself with Nick, knowing the marriage is all but dead, waiting for a divorce lawyer to help seal the deal, Brooke dives into the man and learns what real sex, good sex is like. Poor girl.
Like every reader should be, I wasn't amazed that Brooke found a keeper in bed, when it came to the married Nick but his own wife, Suzanne, no longer wanted to have Nick in bed with her. Berlin really created a giving character, in Nick, when it came to the pleasure Brooke finds in sleeping with the man. I don’t know why or how Suzanne could turn him down as Brooke seemed more than pleased. As women we all know how one man can be another’s garbage (or divorcee) and others Olympian Gold in bed. Each time it happens, it always makes me shake my head and wonder. But, when Suzanne crawls into her trainer's bed, another woman, along with the small thoughts she has shared with readers about feelings she had about other women growing up, it's a wonder Suzanne didn't catch on sooner, that she wanted her same sex in bed with her and not a man.
Then there is Elizabeth (a part of couple #3). While having a great marriage, being successful in her magazine publishing career, though having it all together, should be the one who is falling apart. And, by the end of the book, may very well do so. Because she has recently been diagnosed with MS and the symptoms of it have been getting worse, at times. She hadn’t even been working because of it. That is, until Nick buys a new magazine called Sound, that he wants to turn into another success. And, when he asks Elizabeth to join and she does, will working in the city, all the strain of the work and her home life be too much? Will it be the magazine, and Nick, that will push her over the edge, only to make her sicker? And, for some reason, everyone seems to turn to her, to divulge secrets she does not want to know. As overwhelming as they all are, will all this be too much, and make her bust? Everyone seems to forget how fragile their friend really is.
However Elizabeth too, has a secret. Something that drives her nuts about her husband, something she has a hard time talking about. And it's the issue that is usually “the issue”, when it comes to couples. Sex. Danny, her husband, doesn't always give it to her when she wants. He turns her one and then, panting, when she asks for it, he only leaves her to wait and wait. But why should a woman be continually waiting? With all the stress and strain Elizabeth goes through with her MS sex should be easy. But, Elizabeth and Danny are the perfect couple? Aren’t they?
Not wanting to spoil the book for others, not wanting to peel back the curtain too far, Friends With Issues must be read to find out what happens with all these friends (and issues). Meredith Berlin introduced me to characters, Nick, Brooke, Suzanne, and Elizabeth that I, at the end of the book, felt like I was friends with them too. Friends With Issues felt personal to me as it reminded me of so many things about life in general, and my life, too. And, these were really great people to get to know, these friends with flaws and bad habits, but, also, kindness and beauty. One day I hope to meet them again and see how they are doing. Oddly, after I was done I knew I would miss them and think of them, from time to time. While I want to say here, “if you want to miss them too”, (read the book) but, who likes to miss anyone, after all? However bookwise, when you miss a character, you know you have read a good, lasting book that stays with you long after you put it away. And with Berlin’s next book, who knows, I might meet them again or someone like them, that I will find friendship and fun with all over again. Until that time…
Happy Reading!
November 9, 2022
Absolutely loved this book. It follows three charming women through careers, sex lives and friendships. Meredith Berlin created relatable, important characters and storylines. This book is consequential for our time, and discusses the importance of sex in relationships for women, not just men. Well worth the read, you have to pick this one up!
May 21, 2023
**I recieved this book as an ARC from netgalley!**
Hm. How to describe this book? Well in the end I still don't really understand what was going on or the point behind it. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't horrible. It was a book about a group of friends and their crazy wild lives and how they intertwined. I got that. What I didn't get was the overall plot. I also thought the shock value was unnecessary. Just didn't seem like a clean wrap up at the end and if anything it just left me more confused. Who knows, maybe it was just me?
Short and quick read, fast paced but a little boring.
Overall it was alright.
Hm. How to describe this book? Well in the end I still don't really understand what was going on or the point behind it. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't horrible. It was a book about a group of friends and their crazy wild lives and how they intertwined. I got that. What I didn't get was the overall plot. I also thought the shock value was unnecessary. Just didn't seem like a clean wrap up at the end and if anything it just left me more confused. Who knows, maybe it was just me?
Short and quick read, fast paced but a little boring.
Overall it was alright.
March 23, 2023
10/10 This was such an excellent book! I received this from the publisher and want to extend my appreciation for getting a chance to read it. This book reminded me a bit of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by TJR in the very best way. Friends With Issues follows three friends as they navigate their chaotic lives. Fun, heartfelt, hot, emotional, and everything in between. Absolutely seamless writing with a strong plot and likable characters. As a debut novel, this is a HUGE accomplishment. LOVE this one and will absolutely be recommending it to people! Thank you again for allowing me the chance to give this one a read!
November 15, 2022
This is a compelling new novel with many themes that will resonate. From struggling marriages, betrayal, female rivalry, to adversities, these characters are relatable and complex. Excellent descriptions, dialogue and setting. Highly recommend!
December 5, 2022
This story follows three friends: Brooke, Elizabeth, and Susan as they navigate their lives. They try to find the balance between work life and personal life while dealing with struggles that could shatter their lives. I really enjoyed this story from start to finish
November 1, 2022
The drama will hook you and along the way you'll fall in love with these woman and the twisting turns their lives take. Beautiful dynamics that reflect real life relationships, these woman jump off the page with their poignancy and discoveries.
January 22, 2023
The aptly named Friends with Issues is a guilty pleasure! It’s Danielle Steel, Jackie Collins and Sidney Sheldon worthy! Susan, Brooke and Elizabeth and husbands Nick, Tripp and Danny are the beautiful people. The women have perfect figures, honed by personal trainers, private chefs, expensive wardrobes and unimaginable wealth. None of this, however, has made them happy. Susan and Nick live like roommates, Brooke is suspicious of Tripp’s actions and Elizabeth is dealing with a serious illness. As their problems intensify, they will learn that what matters most cannot be bought.
Friends with Issues is a quick read, pure fun and escapism. Meredith Berlin is an Emmy winner and former editor of Soap Opera digest so she knows how to package a juicy story. Pop this one in your beach bag and enjoy! 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Warren Publishing and Meredith Berlin for this ARC.
Friends with Issues is a quick read, pure fun and escapism. Meredith Berlin is an Emmy winner and former editor of Soap Opera digest so she knows how to package a juicy story. Pop this one in your beach bag and enjoy! 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Warren Publishing and Meredith Berlin for this ARC.
April 20, 2023
I have nothing nice to say about this book.
January 25, 2023
happy #pubday to this super fun read!! 🎉
this book follows the lives of Susan, Brooke, and Elizabeth, along with their prospective husbands & successful lives. each in their 40s, the women have all experienced glamour, fortune, and stability throughout their years, but are now each facing their own personal setbacks.
Susan is married to a well-respected media genius, whose work in the magazine industry has given them financial security to last a lifetime; still, Susan finds herself restless in her current state & is desperate to explore some new passions.
Brooke is in the midst of a marital crisis, unaware of how to handle her troubled husband or their failing marriage. while seeking comfort through her hobby of jewelry-making, she finds comfort in other unexpected places, as well.
Elizabeth refuses to let her chronic illness stop her from being a doting mother & wife; but when an incredible work opportunity is presented to her in the midst of life’s chaos, she finds herself dwelling on the limitations her body has forced upon her.
this book was a great gossipy read about the famous & wealthy in NYC and Greenwich, and I devoured every second of it. in this close-knit setting, we experience lots of scandal and betrayal, yet the general tone is that of an unbothered demeanor. it’s amazing in its overall “IDGAF, I do what I want” mentality, and regardless of how terrible some of the characters could be, I couldn’t help but love them for their unapologetic attitudes.
the author of this book was an editor-in-chief for Seventeen magazine & Soap Opera Digest, so you know you’re getting drama with this one. I found it interesting that the book was based mostly in the 90’s, and didn’t even realize this until I was over halfway done w/ the book; apparently, Berlin started this book years ago & just recently came back to it.
overall, an entertaining, guilty-pleasure read for those who love The Devil Wears Prada/SATC-type books!
#arc courtesy of @netgalley & @warrenpublish!
this book follows the lives of Susan, Brooke, and Elizabeth, along with their prospective husbands & successful lives. each in their 40s, the women have all experienced glamour, fortune, and stability throughout their years, but are now each facing their own personal setbacks.
Susan is married to a well-respected media genius, whose work in the magazine industry has given them financial security to last a lifetime; still, Susan finds herself restless in her current state & is desperate to explore some new passions.
Brooke is in the midst of a marital crisis, unaware of how to handle her troubled husband or their failing marriage. while seeking comfort through her hobby of jewelry-making, she finds comfort in other unexpected places, as well.
Elizabeth refuses to let her chronic illness stop her from being a doting mother & wife; but when an incredible work opportunity is presented to her in the midst of life’s chaos, she finds herself dwelling on the limitations her body has forced upon her.
this book was a great gossipy read about the famous & wealthy in NYC and Greenwich, and I devoured every second of it. in this close-knit setting, we experience lots of scandal and betrayal, yet the general tone is that of an unbothered demeanor. it’s amazing in its overall “IDGAF, I do what I want” mentality, and regardless of how terrible some of the characters could be, I couldn’t help but love them for their unapologetic attitudes.
the author of this book was an editor-in-chief for Seventeen magazine & Soap Opera Digest, so you know you’re getting drama with this one. I found it interesting that the book was based mostly in the 90’s, and didn’t even realize this until I was over halfway done w/ the book; apparently, Berlin started this book years ago & just recently came back to it.
overall, an entertaining, guilty-pleasure read for those who love The Devil Wears Prada/SATC-type books!
#arc courtesy of @netgalley & @warrenpublish!
December 27, 2022
Publication date: January 24, 2023
Change. That is the main theme of this book; changes to three women’s lives - Susan, Elizabeth and Brooke, and all these changes are entwined with this one man - Nick, whom, from the first sentence in the first chapter, the author has revealed will be dead in six months. This book jumps between the POVs of these four people leading up to Nick’s death, about their raw emotions, their thoughts, and the courage they took to embrace the changes in their lives.
Friends with Issues is easy to get into, with detailed descriptions of every scene and the author portrayed the raw emotions - good and bad - so beautifully, somewhat accurately and sometimes reflecting. Though there are thoughts and/or emotions that I do not agree with, but it’s not coming out of nowhere; they make sense and I can see why or how the characters felt that way.
While the book is set in 1997-1998, the references to the 90s’ are little, almost to none, apart from the payphone and calling the airlines to book flights. It could easily pass as a book set in the modern days.
Despite jumping POVs between each characters which may be a concern for confusion to some, the author does it so well that the storyline flows seamlessly and made it so easy to continue wherever the author puts us.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend to anyone who yearn the slow burn of slice-of-life reflections and raw, provoking thoughts about changes.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Warren Publishing for providing me with this amazing advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
Edit: I find myself thinking about the dynamics and relationship between Susan and Nick even after finishing the book.
Change. That is the main theme of this book; changes to three women’s lives - Susan, Elizabeth and Brooke, and all these changes are entwined with this one man - Nick, whom, from the first sentence in the first chapter, the author has revealed will be dead in six months. This book jumps between the POVs of these four people leading up to Nick’s death, about their raw emotions, their thoughts, and the courage they took to embrace the changes in their lives.
Friends with Issues is easy to get into, with detailed descriptions of every scene and the author portrayed the raw emotions - good and bad - so beautifully, somewhat accurately and sometimes reflecting. Though there are thoughts and/or emotions that I do not agree with, but it’s not coming out of nowhere; they make sense and I can see why or how the characters felt that way.
While the book is set in 1997-1998, the references to the 90s’ are little, almost to none, apart from the payphone and calling the airlines to book flights. It could easily pass as a book set in the modern days.
Despite jumping POVs between each characters which may be a concern for confusion to some, the author does it so well that the storyline flows seamlessly and made it so easy to continue wherever the author puts us.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend to anyone who yearn the slow burn of slice-of-life reflections and raw, provoking thoughts about changes.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Warren Publishing for providing me with this amazing advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
Edit: I find myself thinking about the dynamics and relationship between Susan and Nick even after finishing the book.
December 14, 2022
this was kindly sent to me as an e-arc by Netgalley so thanks to them and the author.
this was definitely out of my comfort zone but i did enjoy my time out of it. this book is character driven which is usually not my favorite however i surprisingly liked it here. we follow these 3 women who become friends throughout the book but mostly because they are all linked to this one man, Nick. Though he was my least favorite point of vue, the relationships he had with the other characters were very engaging. These 3 women have their own issues and challenges they must face but are related through Nick. Susan, his wife, has to face her marriage, body image, confidence and sexuality. Elizabeth, his best friend, is confronted with her work, her role as a mother and how she can balance both while having multiple sclerosis. finally, brooke, his lover and elizabeth’s friend, is unhappy in her marriage and is considering divorce. all the themes depicted in the story are simply reflections of real life, not here to be criticized or condoned, simply explored through the characters choices and actions.
this book was undeniably compelling and, tho not about to become a new favorite, definitely one i enjoyed and will recommend.
this was definitely out of my comfort zone but i did enjoy my time out of it. this book is character driven which is usually not my favorite however i surprisingly liked it here. we follow these 3 women who become friends throughout the book but mostly because they are all linked to this one man, Nick. Though he was my least favorite point of vue, the relationships he had with the other characters were very engaging. These 3 women have their own issues and challenges they must face but are related through Nick. Susan, his wife, has to face her marriage, body image, confidence and sexuality. Elizabeth, his best friend, is confronted with her work, her role as a mother and how she can balance both while having multiple sclerosis. finally, brooke, his lover and elizabeth’s friend, is unhappy in her marriage and is considering divorce. all the themes depicted in the story are simply reflections of real life, not here to be criticized or condoned, simply explored through the characters choices and actions.
this book was undeniably compelling and, tho not about to become a new favorite, definitely one i enjoyed and will recommend.
December 31, 2022
*Netgalley ebook and paperback arc
This book’s title is perfect. It was about a group of friends with all sorts of issues and lives that intertwine. This was a middle-aged coming of age story. It’s a book about friends coming together (some more than others) and learning to live again.
It’s a very character driven story, not plot focused, as there really wasn’t a big story arc. I prefer more plot driven books.
I was more interested in the beginning of the book then the middle- end. It just didn’t feel like it flowed as well as the story progressed. Which is weird for me because the only 2 events that really stood out to me were I’m the middle/end (and I’m trying not to give anything away) (1) 2 characters crossing the line and then (2) the deer thing. Those things, to me were major events that weren’t really capitalized on, I think they were missed opportunities for sure. I think it could’ve added a lot more to the story, giving it a plot, along with the character depth.
The relationships I was most interested in were: Susan (Jenna too), Nick and Brooke…maybe even Tripp. The other characters I really didn’t care for or connect with. I wanted more out of these characters and was very interested in their stories.
This book’s title is perfect. It was about a group of friends with all sorts of issues and lives that intertwine. This was a middle-aged coming of age story. It’s a book about friends coming together (some more than others) and learning to live again.
It’s a very character driven story, not plot focused, as there really wasn’t a big story arc. I prefer more plot driven books.
I was more interested in the beginning of the book then the middle- end. It just didn’t feel like it flowed as well as the story progressed. Which is weird for me because the only 2 events that really stood out to me were I’m the middle/end (and I’m trying not to give anything away) (1) 2 characters crossing the line and then (2) the deer thing. Those things, to me were major events that weren’t really capitalized on, I think they were missed opportunities for sure. I think it could’ve added a lot more to the story, giving it a plot, along with the character depth.
The relationships I was most interested in were: Susan (Jenna too), Nick and Brooke…maybe even Tripp. The other characters I really didn’t care for or connect with. I wanted more out of these characters and was very interested in their stories.
January 18, 2023
Money, glamour, careers, love and sex are not all they are cracked up to be. Friends With Issues follows Susan, Elizabeth, Brooke, and their husbands. Despite having what most strive for, their lives are still lacking in various ways. Brooke's marriage is failing, Elizabeth's struggling with a new diagnosis, and Susan her relationship is also on the rocks. We follow the three women through captivating ups and downs that make them relatable no matter how we differ from them.
Immediately, I found myself cruising through the story with great interest; I was sucked in. Berlin's writing style is impeccable and she truly has a gift with story telling. However, I do think that there is a specific reader for this type of novel. The characters are relatable but not especially likable. Parts are uncomfortable and gritty but in a real life fashion. I shouted “NOOOO”, sighed, repositioned, and even got emotional at the end. You'll want to read this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Warren Publishing for my eARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Immediately, I found myself cruising through the story with great interest; I was sucked in. Berlin's writing style is impeccable and she truly has a gift with story telling. However, I do think that there is a specific reader for this type of novel. The characters are relatable but not especially likable. Parts are uncomfortable and gritty but in a real life fashion. I shouted “NOOOO”, sighed, repositioned, and even got emotional at the end. You'll want to read this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Warren Publishing for my eARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
January 12, 2023
A complex story about 3 couples who are all trying to find their way and what they really want in life. All 3 couples live very different lives and the author shows that what we see on the outside is not what is going on behind closed doors. All their lives are intertwined in different ways , from drugs, affairs, finding one’s sexuality, medical challenges, divorce, death and finding your joy in life.
I enjoyed the story being told from multiple points of view and in the end seeing everyone find joy in living even if it was different than what they thought life might look like for them.
I voluntarily received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and all options are my own
I enjoyed the story being told from multiple points of view and in the end seeing everyone find joy in living even if it was different than what they thought life might look like for them.
I voluntarily received a free advanced copy from NetGalley and all options are my own
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January 23, 2023I love books about complicated friendships and as you can probably tell from the title, FRIENDS WITH ISSUES fits the bill.
This character-driven novel follows the lives of three women, Elizabeth, Susan and Brooke, who seem like they have it all, and Nick, the man who influences their lives in very different ways. It's a book about change and self-acceptance, reimagining who you thought you'd be when you hit your 40s, and how relationships change and evolve over the years. I really enjoyed that it featured mature and realistically flawed characters, the 1990s NYC setting and magazine publishing as a backdrop. I'll definitely read whatever Meredith Berlin.
Thanks to @warrenpublish for the #gifted copy.
This character-driven novel follows the lives of three women, Elizabeth, Susan and Brooke, who seem like they have it all, and Nick, the man who influences their lives in very different ways. It's a book about change and self-acceptance, reimagining who you thought you'd be when you hit your 40s, and how relationships change and evolve over the years. I really enjoyed that it featured mature and realistically flawed characters, the 1990s NYC setting and magazine publishing as a backdrop. I'll definitely read whatever Meredith Berlin.
Thanks to @warrenpublish for the #gifted copy.
December 28, 2022
Friends with Issues was a compelling book about 70% of the time. I enjoyed seeing women who had success professionally outside of their marriages. All the characters were also very sex-positive. What didn't quite work for me was calling the 3 leads "friends". Susan was clearly an acquaintance, at best to Brooke, and I also wouldn't really consider her and Elizabeth to actually be friends either. This wouldn't have bothered me so much has it not been for the description describing them all as friends, and the title also alluding to it.
I think other than that, it was a very enjoyable read. Despite the being told that a certain character was going to die, it still caught me off-guard when it happened. This isn't a spoiler. You are told it is happening in the first sentence of the book!
Pick this up if you enjoy reading about successful women navigating their lives while overcoming a variety of obstacles both personal and professional.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
I think other than that, it was a very enjoyable read. Despite the being told that a certain character was going to die, it still caught me off-guard when it happened. This isn't a spoiler. You are told it is happening in the first sentence of the book!
Pick this up if you enjoy reading about successful women navigating their lives while overcoming a variety of obstacles both personal and professional.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
January 16, 2023
I loved Friends With Issues. It’s a deep novel that is character driven, my favorite kind of book. We follow 3 distinct women all with aspirations and character flaws, much like you and I. There is also a wonderful man who brings the 3 women together. It’s a soft, easy read, pure and enjoyable. I found myself either laughing out loud, curious for more, or deeply entranced by the plot and the arc of the friendships. Bring your glass of wine to the bathtub (like I did) and feel totally entranced by this remarkable, beautifully written first novel by Meredith Berlin.
December 11, 2022
En cuanto vi esta novela en NetGallery, la portada, la descripción y la biografía de la autora me atrajeron en leerla y ¡qué gran decisión!
Esta es una historia de mujeres adultas redescubriendo sus vidas y su sexualidad y comprendiendo las relaciones de una manera preciosa. Habrá momentos en que las entiendas y otros en los que no, pero sus decisiones son suyas y la autora nunca busca dejarlas de pobrecitas.
El único pero que le pongo a la novela es que el núcleo central de la misma es uno de los hombres, sobre él orbitan y él las “une” y, aunque tiene explicación, me pareció un poco clásico.
Esta es una historia de mujeres adultas redescubriendo sus vidas y su sexualidad y comprendiendo las relaciones de una manera preciosa. Habrá momentos en que las entiendas y otros en los que no, pero sus decisiones son suyas y la autora nunca busca dejarlas de pobrecitas.
El único pero que le pongo a la novela es que el núcleo central de la misma es uno de los hombres, sobre él orbitan y él las “une” y, aunque tiene explicación, me pareció un poco clásico.
January 15, 2023
This book had me reminiscing about the late 90s and the thrill of the monthly PHYSICAL magazine, NOT DIGITAL. This one reminded me of an old school Danielle Steel or Jackie Collins.
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It’s true these characters were many times unlikeable but it was a soapy story that flew by. Brooke, Elizabeth and Susan are three glamorous women who made their mark on the world but middle age has them questioning their next chapter, along with health issues and relationships.
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Thank you #warrenpublishing and #NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
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It’s true these characters were many times unlikeable but it was a soapy story that flew by. Brooke, Elizabeth and Susan are three glamorous women who made their mark on the world but middle age has them questioning their next chapter, along with health issues and relationships.
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Thank you #warrenpublishing and #NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
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March 10, 2023
At first, I didn’t know what to make of this book. But as I read more & more of it, I couldn’t put this one down. It was interesting how the characters were separate but they interweaved together throughout the book. If not for other obligations, I would have read this one in one setting. I cannot wait to read more books by Meredith Berlin!!
December 15, 2022
I absolutely loved this week. I love the characters and the drama. The high and lows, ups and downs. I think everyone can relate to at least one or more of these characters. I love the friendships and love between them. I wasn’t sure how it would end It I was happy with the ending. I’m sure everyone has “ Friends With Issues”
January 4, 2023
The story starts in 1997 and is told from the perspective of three women in their 40's. It examines relationships, sexuality, chronic illness, motherhood and careers. This novel had me reminiscing about the late 90's while I was lost in the world of each character. Highly recommend!
January 24, 2023
And boy, do these friends have issues! Starting in the late 1990s and focusing on the lives of a group of three women in their 40s and their extended friend group, Friends with Issues tackles some tough topics that many can find relatable. From motherhood, addiction, chronic illness, relationships, and infidelity, Brooke, Susan, and Elizabeth are dealing with a lot and I felt drawn right into to their lives. There are multiple narrators but I found jumping from one POV to the next near seamlessly. Friends with Issues was highly enjoyable and I look forward to seeing what Berlin writes next!
Thank you to @booksforwardpr and author @meredith_berlin for the advanced reading copy of Friends with Issues, receipt of which did not impact my review.
Thank you to @booksforwardpr and author @meredith_berlin for the advanced reading copy of Friends with Issues, receipt of which did not impact my review.
January 25, 2023
Loved this book. I read it straight thru and was impressed with Meredith’s skills as an author. She brings up topics and issues we have all seen but she articulates it in a way where we go “ oh yeah” I felt that way, I had that experience. Meredith takes some of the realities of life and tells a wonderful story around them. This is a clear cut winner.
January 5, 2023
Thank you @netgalley and @warrenpublish for sending me this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This is the debut novel from Meredith Berlin, former editor-in-chief of Seventeen Magazine and Soap Opera Digest. Given that Seventeen Magazine was a favourite of mine when I was a teenager, I decided I had to read this book.
I really like books about a group of friends, each with their own storyline but also connected. This also had another one of my favourite elements which is women starting their own businesses. So this book was a great fit for me.
I will say that I’m unsure of why it was set in 1997/98 – unless it’s because the author was the editor of Seventeen Magazine during those years and this is partially about some of the characters overhauling a magazine. The tone feels 90’s (reference to finding a pay phone), but there’s really nothing specific in the plot that points to it having to be set during those years.
I love that Meredith Berlin included things from her own life – the magazine editor, and also the inclusion of a character with MS, which she mentions in the acknowledgements that she has as well. I also, of course, enjoyed the brief references to the fact that some of the characters are Jewish.
Overall, I was drawn in from the start and really enjoyed it!
“Friends with Issues follows three glamorous, self-made women in their 40s who gamble with love, sex and their careers in NYC and L.A., as one charismatic man captivates them all.”
Publication Date – January 24, 2023
This is the debut novel from Meredith Berlin, former editor-in-chief of Seventeen Magazine and Soap Opera Digest. Given that Seventeen Magazine was a favourite of mine when I was a teenager, I decided I had to read this book.
I really like books about a group of friends, each with their own storyline but also connected. This also had another one of my favourite elements which is women starting their own businesses. So this book was a great fit for me.
I will say that I’m unsure of why it was set in 1997/98 – unless it’s because the author was the editor of Seventeen Magazine during those years and this is partially about some of the characters overhauling a magazine. The tone feels 90’s (reference to finding a pay phone), but there’s really nothing specific in the plot that points to it having to be set during those years.
I love that Meredith Berlin included things from her own life – the magazine editor, and also the inclusion of a character with MS, which she mentions in the acknowledgements that she has as well. I also, of course, enjoyed the brief references to the fact that some of the characters are Jewish.
Overall, I was drawn in from the start and really enjoyed it!
“Friends with Issues follows three glamorous, self-made women in their 40s who gamble with love, sex and their careers in NYC and L.A., as one charismatic man captivates them all.”
Publication Date – January 24, 2023
December 23, 2022
An enjoyable and highly recommended read. Elizabeth and Danny have some friends that never met. In their forties, they decide to have two of their best friends and spouses meet. Two couples becomes three and Elizabeth is the keeper of secrets. All three couples have issues and things get messy. The book flows nicely and was hard to put down for very long. Housework took a back seat while I finished this novel. I was honored to receive a digital ARC from Warren Publishing and NetGalley. This opinion is my own.
December 15, 2022
This was just fabulous! The cast is large but it’s definitely manageable, and I promise you’ll fall in love with each character immediately. They’re so dynamic and charming that even though they aren’t always likable, you can’t help but love them through it all. As for the plot, it’s smart, it’s delicious, it’s unputdownable. I loved it and you will too. Absolutely delightful, every page.
December 31, 2023
I loved the clever title of this book! Overall it was an enjoyable read and one I came back to often as I found myself wanting to know what was going to happen with each of the characters and their story lines.
The beginning of the book was a bit difficult for me to get into only because I found it hard to get to know the characters well enough to keep them straight. Once I was able to remember who was who and their back story things started moving along and I found myself compelled by each person's story and the way they intertwined. Although not all of the characters are as likeable I found them all to be very human and believable. Flawed though they were, I think many of us have been some part of each of them at some point. Meredith Berlin was able to really explore many kinds of relationships (sexual and friendship) at all different stages in a way that felt very compelling and authentic. The ending was satisfying without being perfect
The style of writing was easy to read, and I can see the book becoming popular quickly. I will certainly be on the lookout for more books by this author!
The beginning of the book was a bit difficult for me to get into only because I found it hard to get to know the characters well enough to keep them straight. Once I was able to remember who was who and their back story things started moving along and I found myself compelled by each person's story and the way they intertwined. Although not all of the characters are as likeable I found them all to be very human and believable. Flawed though they were, I think many of us have been some part of each of them at some point. Meredith Berlin was able to really explore many kinds of relationships (sexual and friendship) at all different stages in a way that felt very compelling and authentic. The ending was satisfying without being perfect
The style of writing was easy to read, and I can see the book becoming popular quickly. I will certainly be on the lookout for more books by this author!
December 22, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Warren publishing for an ARC of this book.
Friends With Issues follows three women whose stories are intertwined. Nick and Susan are married, although they both have pulled away. Susan has body image issues, and has struggled with sexual intimacy. Nick’s best friend is Elizabeth, who has worked with him previously, and he wants to collaborate again on a magazine he’d like to purchase. Elizabeth is struggling with her strong sexual desires, while also dealing with an MS diagnosis. Elizabeth’s other best friend from childhood is Brooke, an aspiring jewelry maker who is dealing with the fallout of her husband’s disease and addiction. Their relationships collide at a dinner party, bringing together new sparks and ideas that unfold through the rest of the book.
I struggled a little with readability on this one. The three women plus Nick all have points of view, so each chapter jumps from one storyline to the next as they begin to weave together. There’s a lot going on, and dialogue and subtext sometimes felt awkward, like it was trying to give too much but not able to fully develop.
That being said, I liked the ambitions and desires of the individual characters. Some were more likable than others. I really felt Brooke and Elizabeth’s POV more than Susan, who came across as closed off and harsh, especially at first. I don’t know why, but I pictured her attitude and dialogue as played by Jennifer Coolidge.
Overall, I’d give this one 3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
Friends With Issues follows three women whose stories are intertwined. Nick and Susan are married, although they both have pulled away. Susan has body image issues, and has struggled with sexual intimacy. Nick’s best friend is Elizabeth, who has worked with him previously, and he wants to collaborate again on a magazine he’d like to purchase. Elizabeth is struggling with her strong sexual desires, while also dealing with an MS diagnosis. Elizabeth’s other best friend from childhood is Brooke, an aspiring jewelry maker who is dealing with the fallout of her husband’s disease and addiction. Their relationships collide at a dinner party, bringing together new sparks and ideas that unfold through the rest of the book.
I struggled a little with readability on this one. The three women plus Nick all have points of view, so each chapter jumps from one storyline to the next as they begin to weave together. There’s a lot going on, and dialogue and subtext sometimes felt awkward, like it was trying to give too much but not able to fully develop.
That being said, I liked the ambitions and desires of the individual characters. Some were more likable than others. I really felt Brooke and Elizabeth’s POV more than Susan, who came across as closed off and harsh, especially at first. I don’t know why, but I pictured her attitude and dialogue as played by Jennifer Coolidge.
Overall, I’d give this one 3.5 stars rounded down to 3.
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