Embracing the Ordinary: A Journey Through Ordinary Love by Marie Rutkoski
When I first heard about Ordinary Love by Marie Rutkoski, I felt a flutter of anticipation. The initial praise from Knopf promised a reading experience that would linger in my heart, and with a title like that, how could I resist? It seemed like a perfect blend of nostalgia and new beginnings, encapsulating a story that had all the potential to resonate deeply with readers like me.
This novel unfolds across two distinct timelines, weaving together the lives of two girls growing up in a small town where love—especially romantic love between girls—was whispered about in hushed tones. The deft way Rutkoski navigates societal attitudes towards sexuality, class disparities, and the shifts in cultural norms during the dawn of gay marriage in New York adds layers of depth that are both enlightening and heart-wrenching.
At the heart of Ordinary Love is Emily, a character who feels both intimately familiar and refreshingly unique. Rutkoski succeeds brilliantly in portraying Emily’s evolution—from an innocent, love-struck teenager to a complex adult navigating the intricacies of motherhood and personal agency. I couldn’t help but feel a profound connection to her experiences, including those aspects of her life that were far removed from my own. The magic of Rutkoski’s writing lies in her ability to make us see through Emily’s eyes; her observations are deceptively simple yet profoundly insightful. I found myself reflecting on Emily’s love for her children long after I turned the last page, which is a testament to how powerfully her character resonates.
The narrative is buoyed by Rutkoski’s signature lyrical style—an inviting mixture of fluid sentences and carefully placed pauses that made reading feel like a graceful dance. In many ways, her prose brought to mind some contemporary classics like Annie on My Mind and Last Night at the Telegraph Club: each word felt laced with an air of nostalgia while remaining firmly grounded in the present. I was astonished by how effortlessly she crafted dialogue that fluctuated between humor and heartbreak, allowing me to laugh and cry in equal measure. The transitions between the characters’ youthful exuberance and the sober realities of adult life were beautifully executed, making me eager to see how love would evolve for Emily and Gen.
One of my favorite aspects of Rutkoski’s storytelling is the warmth she infuses into even the toughest subjects. The way she handles themes of intimate partner violence and general prejudice is both sensitive and compelling, steering clear of potential triggers while remaining profoundly impactful. It felt like a gentle embrace rather than a harsh confrontation; I appreciated how it pushed me to reflect without overwhelming me.
As I absorbed each chapter, I was surprised by how easily my heart was pulled into the narrative. The connection between Emily and Gen was electric, their chemistry palpable even amidst the obstacles they faced. The nostalgic sweetness of their teenage romance evolved into a yearning adult love that left me breathless.
In the days since I finished Ordinary Love, I’ve found myself daydreaming about its characters and revisiting my favorite passages. It has become one of those rare books that grips you firmly, refusing to let go even after you’ve closed the cover. This novel is not only a celebration of diverse love but also a transformative reading experience that challenges perceptions and expands the heart.
If you’re someone who enjoys beautifully woven tales of love, resilience, and the nuances of bisexuality, then I urge you to pick up Ordinary Love. Its refreshing authenticity and emotional depth make it a must-read, whether you’re a part of this community or simply an ally seeking to understand. Prepare to be changed—just as I was.
Thanks to Knopf and Netgalley for an advance copy; this book is destined to be one of my favorites of the year.