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Warm cups of coffee, good books, and long runs outside. If I had my way, our days would be filled with nothing but joy. But life usually throws us a few things we’re not quite expecting. And then? It’s how we react that makes the difference . . .
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
In The Marriage Debt, Christina Consolino introduces readers to Nika Stewart, a character navigating the complexities of midlife changes and marital life expectations. The story begins with a snapshot of Nika’s life, highlighting her struggles with menopause and its impact on her intimate relationship with her husband, Ethan. Nika’s journey is filled with the challenges of aging as her body and desires no longer align with her younger self. Consolino skillfully portrays these struggles with genuine empathy and realism. Nika leads an ordinary life, including school runs and family brunches, and her job as an elementary school librarian brings relatability to her character. Her interactions with the children and her best friend, Rainey, create light moments that contrast with her inner turmoil. Consolino effectively uses these scenes to construct a world where the protagonist’s professional and personal lives intersect, emphasizing the supportive relationships that aid Nika in navigating her challenges.
The storyline is realistic, as Christina Consolino explores the difficulties of the “change” and its impact on marriages. She also explores the communication barriers and unspoken expectations that often simmer beneath the surface of long-term relationships. The writing is crisp, and the pacing is perfect. The honest portrayal of life’s mundane yet significant moments is skillfully presented. The detailed exploration of Nika’s personal growth and her gradual confrontation with life’s imperfections add to the narrative. The Marriage Debt highlights the lasting strength of love and friendship when experiencing life’s inevitable transformations. Consolino’s insightful writing makes this book a must-read for anyone who values novels that explore the intricacies of daily life and the resilience of the human spirit.
