Book Review: The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
As a lover of romance and whimsical stories, I was immediately drawn to The Seven Year Slip after discovering its premise—a contemporary love story that intricately blends time travel with heartfelt themes of grief and self-discovery. The fact that it’s penned by Ashley Poston, who has garnered admiration for her previous work, made it an enticing read for me.
The novel follows Clementine, an overworked book publicist who, despite her meticulously orchestrated life, finds herself at a crossroads when she falls for Iwan, her charming temporary roommate—who just happens to exist seven years in her past. This unique twist on time travel captivated me from the start, echoing the sentiments conveyed in the book’s description about a love that "is never a matter of time—but a matter of timing." The narrative truly shines as it delves into themes of chasing dreams, confronting grief, and navigating the complexities of relationships.
One of the highlights for me was how intentionally crafted the characters felt. As readers, we experience Clementine’s struggles with both career burnout and the weight of past losses, mirroring the innocence and hope that Iwan embodies. Their chemistry develops organically as they share brief, poignant moments in the magical apartment described so vividly in Poston’s prose. In this space—a "pinch in time"—the weight of the world feels momentarily lifted, allowing for genuine connection, which I found utterly enchanting.
From the first few chapters, I was swept away by the lightness and humor woven throughout, even as the story tackled profound subjects like grief and loss. One reader mentioned that Clementine’s rules about the apartment—never fall in love—added an intriguing layer of tension to the narrative. I couldn’t agree more. This established a bittersweet backdrop that makes every encounter between Clementine and Iwan feel momentous, yet fleeting—a reminder of the impermanence of moments.
However, I didn’t escape the narrative without a few critiques. While I enjoyed the pacing for the most part, some sections felt a tad rushed, especially during key emotional developments. A review I read echoed this sentiment, expressing a desire for more time spent in that magical in-between space before transitioning back to reality. Though much of the story flowed seamlessly, a few moments left me longing for deeper exploration of certain themes.
Another drawback worth noting is the book’s handling of humor. Although I appreciated the lightheartedness, proportional to the weight of the themes discussed, some moments might feel jarring for readers who prefer a more straightforward romantic narrative. As one reviewer noted, it may come off as not entirely original, yet I found Poston’s unique twist on time travel refreshing, blending humor and sentiment in a distinctive way.
The Seven Year Slip ultimately left me with a sense of warmth and reflection. The characters’ journeys resonate well beyond the final page, reminding us that love isn’t just about timing but also about connection and authenticity. The lines between love and grief are often blurred, but Poston navigates these emotional waters with grace. The quote, “Because the things that mattered most never really left. The love stays,” captured the lingering essence of the book beautifully.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend The Seven Year Slip to anyone looking for an engaging romance that balances whimsy with introspective depth. While there are some pacing issues and moments of humor that may not resonate with every reader, the heartfelt narrative and character development make it a worthwhile read. If you’re in the mood for a story that invites you to explore love through the lens of time and connection, this book is sure to satisfy. Prepare to be charmed, touched, and perhaps even shed a tear or two.