The cover of this book will make you think this book is light and airy. However, Bella Ellwood-Clayton knows how to write a novel and deliver a punch. I devoured this book. I loved it so much. I loved the mother-daughter relationship, the characters, the contrasts in lifestyles, the grit. This book was everything and more. WOW.

Review of Weekend Friends by Bella Ellwood-Clayton

Weekend Friends by Bella Ellwood-Clayton is a delightful and engaging contemporary novel that explores the intricacies of friendship, love, and the challenges of adult life. Set against the vibrant backdrop of a bustling city, this story follows a close-knit group of friends as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationships, careers, and personal aspirations.

Ellwood-Clayton’s writing is warm and relatable, immediately drawing readers into the lives of the main characters. Each member of the friend group is well-developed, with unique personalities and backstories that add depth to the narrative. The author skillfully balances humor and heartfelt moments, making it easy to connect with the characters and invest in their journeys.

At the heart of the story is the theme of friendship—how it evolves over time and how it can be both a source of strength and a point of contention. The dynamics between the friends are realistically portrayed, capturing the complexities of maintaining relationships as life becomes busier and priorities shift. The author delves into the nuances of friendships, including jealousy, misunderstandings, and the occasional falling out, which makes the narrative feel authentic.

The plot unfolds at a steady pace, filled with delightful moments that evoke laughter and reflection. The weekend get-togethers serve as a backdrop for the characters to confront their personal issues, leading to meaningful conversations and revelations. Ellwood-Clayton does an excellent job of weaving in themes of self-discovery and personal growth, allowing readers to see how each character learns from their experiences.

One of the standout aspects of Weekend Friends is its exploration of romantic relationships alongside friendships. The author deftly intertwines these themes, highlighting how the characters’ romantic entanglements impact their friendships and vice versa. This adds an additional layer of complexity to the story and keeps readers engaged as they root for the characters’ happiness.

While the book is primarily character-driven, some readers may find certain plot developments predictable. However, the strength of Ellwood-Clayton’s writing lies in her ability to create relatable, flawed characters whose journeys resonate deeply. The emotional moments are heartfelt and impactful, leaving a lasting impression.

Overall, Weekend Friends is a charming and insightful read that captures the essence of modern friendships and the trials of adulthood. Bella Ellwood-Clayton has crafted a story that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the joys and challenges of maintaining close relationships. This book is perfect for readers looking for a heartwarming and entertaining story filled with humor, warmth, and genuine emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a refreshing take on friendship and love in contemporary fiction.

Bella Ellwood-Clayton’s "Weekend Friends" is a captivating exploration of friendship, love, and personal growth. The novel follows a close-knit group of friends whose lives intersect over weekends filled with laughter, secrets, and emotional revelations. Ellwood-Clayton’s writing is both engaging and insightful, bringing depth to each character and their evolving relationships. The story beautifully balances moments of joy with poignant reflections, making for a compelling and heartfelt read. "Weekend Friends" is a celebration of the bonds that define us and the transformative power of genuine connection, perfect for readers who enjoy richly drawn characters and meaningful narratives.

This was such a fun and addictive read. It was so bingeable and once you start you will not stop. Don't let that cute cover fool you, this book talks about some real dark issues. The author did a great job exploring these real life subjects.

Bella Ellwood-Clayton's "Weekend Friends" delivers a gripping domestic drama, whisking readers into the tumultuous world of Rebecca and her tween daughter, Willow, as they relocate from Alaska to Florida for a fresh start following the devastating death of Theo, Rebecca's husband and Willow's father. Hoping for solace and renewal, Rebecca and Willow soon find themselves grappling with the harsh realities of their new life, including the daunting presence of the town's popular clique.

Despite its vibrant summery cover, "Weekend Friends" delves into weighty themes and poignant situations, offering a thought-provoking exploration of grief, adolescence, and the complexities of human relationships. Ellwood-Clayton skillfully navigates the storyline, crafting a compelling tale that feels both authentic and emotionally charged. This is a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating story that delves into the raw and tender intricacies of family dynamics and personal growth.

Within the pages of this captivating narrative lies a world waiting to be explored. With its compelling characters, vivid settings, and thought-provoking themes, this book offers a journey that transcends the ordinary. From the highs of triumph to the lows of despair, the story weaves a tapestry of emotions that resonate deeply with readers. As the plot unfolds, it unveils layers of mystery, intrigue, and revelation, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. Whether seeking adventure, solace, or simply a momentary escape, this book promises to captivate and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of its readers.

Thank you to post hill press and to netgalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book.

This book was great, it felt fresh and not like anything else I've read lately. It kept me intrigued all the way through, I didn't want to put it down.

I’m not sure how I feel about this one still. I liked it while I was reading it but I found it very forgettable. I did really like the characters and the story line.

"Weekend Friends" by Bella Ellwood-Clayton is a refreshing and insightful exploration into modern relationships, brilliantly capturing the essence of contemporary friendships and the complexities of connection in today’s fast-paced world. Ellwood-Clayton's novel is a vibrant tapestry of emotions, humor, and genuine human experiences, making it a delightful read from start to finish.

Ellwood-Clayton crafts a narrative that is as engaging as it is thoughtful, weaving together the lives of her characters in a way that feels both intimate and expansive. The novel shines a light on the nuances of friendship—how it forms, evolves, and sometimes dissolves in the context of our current era. Through a series of intertwined stories, the author explores the concept of "weekend friends," acquaintances made in passing or through fleeting moments, yet impactful enough to leave a lasting imprint on one's life.

The beauty of "Weekend Friends" lies in its ability to strike a balance between light-hearted moments and profound insights. Ellwood-Clayton’s writing is witty and sharp, yet it also delves deep into the emotional landscapes of her characters. She addresses themes of loneliness, the search for belonging, and the joy and heartache that come with human connections, all while maintaining a hopeful and uplifting tone.

Character development is a strong point of the novel, with Ellwood-Clayton presenting a diverse cast that readers will find both relatable and intriguing. Each character is meticulously crafted, with their own backgrounds, insecurities, and desires, making their journeys compelling. The dynamics between characters are rich and varied, providing a broad spectrum of interactions that reflect the many forms friendships can take.

Ellwood-Clayton's prose is both accessible and beautifully crafted, with a narrative voice that invites readers into the story. Her descriptions of settings and emotions are vivid, creating a sense of place and atmosphere that enhances the overall reading experience. The dialogue is natural and engaging, capturing the authentic voices of the characters and the essence of their interactions.

"Weekend Friends" is more than just a novel about friendship; it's a celebration of human connection in all its forms. Bella Ellwood-Clayton has created a poignant, funny, and ultimately uplifting story that resonates with anyone who has ever navigated the complexities of forming relationships in the modern age. It's a reminder of the unexpected ways people come into our lives and the indelible marks they leave. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a story that captures the heart and complexity of contemporary life, making it a perfect addition to any book lover's collection.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an advanced copy to review for my honest opinion.

Following the death of her husband, Rebecca, along with her daughter Willow, leaves the icy expanse of Alaska for the sun-soaked shores of Boca Raton to forge a new beginning. In this unfamiliar setting, Rebecca reconnects with an old pal, Odelle, who introduces her to a circle of women. Eager for companionship and a sense of belonging for herself and Willow, Rebecca warmly embraces this new clique, despite their daughters forming an exclusive and impenetrable group known as KISS.

Navigating the treacherous waters of snobbish parents and their equally difficult offspring is challenging enough, but Rebecca's life gets even more complicated when she unexpectedly falls for the girls' charming school principal.

"Weekend Friends" by Ellwood-Clayton is an enthralling blend of drama, tackling the heavy themes of bullying, loss, and suicide with a deft hand. Imagine "Mean Girls" colliding with "Big Little Lies" in a story that's as heartrending as it is suspenseful, sprinkled with moments of wit and sensuality. This book is a captivating journey from start to finish, promising a climax that will take you by surprise. Perfect for those who crave a story that’s both deeply moving and thrillingly unpredictable.

The author captured my attention and kept me engaged throughout. A style of writing that I appreciate. It did feel like high school.

Amazing book!
I was thoroughly engaged throughout this book and I didn't want to put it down! The author captured my attention from the get go! Five stars from me :)

When 12 year old Willow and her mum move to Florida after her dad’s death she joins middle school with the child/parent drama….her mum adjusts to her new life and dramas and blasts from the past. An easy read

Anyone who’s had a middle school daughter knows the drama that finds them, but when that drama is coupled with a traumatic experience, it can reach through every part of your lives. Weekend friends is a story with some dark twists and turns that pulls you through on a thread of hope. Thoroughly enjoyed!

WOW!!
This book is superb.
Thank you for sharing it with me.
I was shocked by the twists and the turns--the grandmother hired the PI!
Poison Ivy
The gun range
Loved the fun parts, was sad for the completely disturbing parts but glad to have someone writing about bullying and girls and boundaries.
Thank you.

This was an incredible difficult read for the subject matter alone. There are tones of bullying, suicide, and grooming to say the least. However, it is incredible well written and engrossing. The mystery was a good one and the resolution was very satisfying. I only recommend it if you are okay with the above trigger warnings!

this books contains descriptions of several difficult and triggering topics… please listen with care 🩷‼️ this was a fast paced domestic thriller. easy and bingeable! especially with that first chapter! this was not a super warm and fuzzy read, honestly it was realistic in my opinion… *cue the mean girl*… which made the book really thought provoking. lots of twists turns and so many revelations to unfold. interesting depiction of friendships and how temporary they can be. just an all around great book on life.

A good read. It follows themes of grief, bullying and friendships and kept me reading all day. I read it in a few hours and I’d recommend as a light read when you want something that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

As if moving wasn’t hard enough top it off with a tragic death and bullying all while trying to fit into a new community! This book was better than I expected and can’t wait for more from this author!