Book Review: Overdue by Stephanie Perkins
There’s something irresistibly intriguing about books that dive deep into the intricate web of relationships and self-discovery. That’s precisely what caught my attention with Overdue by Stephanie Perkins. A 29-year-old librarian grappling with her long-term relationship as she watches her sister joyfully step into engagement? Count me in! It’s the perfect blend of relatable anxieties and the journey of finding one’s own path in a world often full of expectations.
Ingrid, our protagonist, is stuck in the comfort of routine—both in her life and in her decade-long relationship with Cory. But when her sister’s whirlwind engagement sparks a wave of self-reflection, Ingrid finds herself questioning everything: why hasn’t she taken the plunge? The couple’s unconventional agreement to spend a month apart with the freedom to explore dating is what propels the story forward, and honestly, I was taken aback. I mean, who does that? But as the days stretch into months, it becomes clear that this is not just about dating others but about diving deep into the complexities of love, identity, and the whirlwind of emotions that come with change.
Watching Ingrid grapple with her feelings is one of the book’s greatest strengths. Her growth—from someone grounded in the security of a long-term relationship to someone brave enough to confront the unknown—is genuinely rewarding to witness. There’s a heart-wrenching scene where her impulsive kiss with her grumpy (yet undeniably intriguing) coworker, Macon, ignites a dramatic shift. I cringed, laughed, and ached for her in equal measure. The tension that lingers between them adds layers to the story, but there were moments I found myself yelling, “Just go for her!” at Macon. His reluctance often annoyed me, but that only added to the emotional depth of Ingrid’s journey.
However, the pacing of Overdue left me wanting more. Covering an entire year, some chapters dragged unnecessarily, losing the momentum built around the rich themes of self-discovery and love. The slow-burn aspect, typically a favorite of mine, felt stretched to the limit, diminishing the impact of quieter moments that could have sparkled with more focus. A shift in perspective or a crisper narrative arc might have elevated the reading experience significantly.
Despite its pacing issues, Overdue shines through its heartfelt exploration of change and the realization that not every long-term plan holds true. Ingrid’s evolution feels authentic, and her struggles with heartbreak and self-discovery resonate with anyone who’s navigated the messy in-betweens of life.
I’d recommend this book to readers who appreciate character-driven narratives rich in emotional complexity and self-reflection. If you’ve ever found yourself at a crossroads in love and life, you’ll likely see pieces of yourself in Ingrid’s journey. While it may not leave a lasting impression in its entirety, the themes of transformation and the bittersweet nature of letting go linger long after you turn the final page.
In the end, reading Overdue was a journey that stirred my own thoughts about love, change, and the importance of self-discovery. Thank you, Stephanie Perkins, for inviting us to navigate these rough waters alongside Ingrid. Happy reading, friends!