A Love Letter to Moderation: Finding Connection in the Unconventional
When I first stumbled upon Moderation by Ruthie Henshall, I must admit—I thought I was entering a well-trodden narrative filled with Silicon Valley dystopia, contemporary romance, and those all-too-familiar trauma arcs. But what I found instead was a refreshing exploration of authenticity in a world that often feels overly curated. There’s magic in its pages that caught me off guard, keeping me turning them late into the night, and I just can’t wait to share my thoughts with you.
The Heart of the Matter: Key Themes & Characters
At its core, Moderation delves into complex themes of content moderation and the insidious nature of tech-driven greed, wrapped in a contemporary love story. Enter Girlie, whose strong personality and undeniable charm make her a captivating protagonist. She’s not just any heroine—she’s a big deal; a BDE (Big Dick Energy) type who dances through life with an IDGAF attitude. What really stood out to me was the authentic portrayal of her character. Despite her childhood trauma, Girlie manages to keep people at arm’s length while navigating her relationships and life choices with raw vulnerability.
Then there’s William, her love interest. While he may not be entirely fleshed out until the penultimate chapter—topics often groaned at in book reviews— it didn’t diminish my interest in their slow-burn romance. Their chemistry simmers just beneath the surface, and it’s electrifying, yet the measured distance they maintain makes perfect sense given their respective emotional battles. I found myself appreciating this deliberate pacing, which allowed for introspection and depth rather than a rush toward romance. One standout moment for me is when they exchange knowledge about vintage watches, a quirky yet relatable nod to the pursuit of niche status symbols in social circles.
Style and Substance
Henshall’s writing style is both understated and luxurious, reflecting the very themes it explores. The pacing feels deliberate; each moment lingered just long enough for me to savor it without feeling weighed down. It’s a refreshing change and feels like a personal conversation rather than a formulaic narrative. There’s a certain elegance, akin to the luxury items Girlie surrounds herself with—rich and thought-provoking yet so casually interwoven within the story.
I found myself reflecting on quotes that resonated deeply with me, "Love is found in the pauses," or something similarly raw. While I won’t quote verbatim (I’ll leave that for your own discovery), these moments of insight lingered long after I flipped the last page.
Closing Thoughts: Who Should Read Moderation?
Whether you’re a lover of contemporary romances, someone looking for sharp social commentary, or simply in the mood for an introspective journey about trauma and human connection, Moderation has something special to offer. This book has a way of sneaking up on you—one moment you’re skimming through tropes, and the next, you’re knee-deep in emotionally resonant storytelling that feels incredibly personal.
In a world that often celebrates flash over substance, Moderation invites you to lean in closer, to appreciate the intricacies of life and love. Here’s hoping you find it as enriching as I did. Honestly, I usually read with a neurotic urgency, but this book was the perfect antidote—the right voice at the right time. So, grab a copy, pour yourself a drink, and settle in for a ride that might just inspire a second read for you too!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader’s copy; it was truly a delightful experience that I wholeheartedly recommend!
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