Thanks to modern reproductive technology-and the gift of her friend Cora’s eggs-Ali Gutierrez is the mother of a fourteen-year-old daughter. Now, yearning for a second child, Ali asks Cora’s permission to use another of the frozen embryos that have been stored away in anticipation of this decision. But Cora has a secret that could not only change Ali’s plans for the future, but tear apart her life right now.

Who among us doesn’t know someone with infertility problems of some sort? Personally, it’s affected every female in my family, including myself. If I were bold enough, I would go as far as to say it’s an epidemic. In some cases and with the help of modern medicine, miracles can happen. People, who would otherwise go without the opportunity to have a family, if they chose to, now are able to. In Between Friends that is exactly the opportunity Cora provides to her best friend Ali and it forever changes both of their lives.

Each character in Between Friends brings something different to the table in terms of challenges. One struggles with infertility at varying points, another with a life threatening illness, and another with the challenges of growing up. But everything revolves around the decision they initially made to have Cora donate her eggs to her best friend Ali and her husband Benny. Because of that decision the lives of each of them including Ali’s daughter, Letty, is affected and it’s how they handle each situation that proves their love for one another.

More than anything I enjoyed how each of these characters challenges became a connection with the other. The strength they found in one another and the joy in their love for each other was delightful. Ali and Cora are the girlfriends you dream of having as you go through grade school and move on throughout your life as the best of friends. Friends you depend on when life gets rough or you need someone to share your successes with. And Letty is the typical teenager making mistakes along the way, discovering that she can trust in those that care for her most.

This is by far one of my favorite reads this year. Kristy Kiernan’s writing draws you in within the first few pages and it’s hard to let go of these wonderful characters each of which hold a depth that makes them real. Throughout the story the “voice” changes, from Cora to Ali and to their daughter Letty. Each new perspective is marked by a chapter heading with their name, which makes it so easy to follow who is speaking. Definitely, this was a highlight in the book, because you were able to truly get to know each of the main characters.

A very highly recommended read. From the characters to the story to the way it was written. Everything in this beautiful story is just what you need to get away for a few hours. You will absolutely love Between Friends.

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