Of the forty-five books I’ve read in 2023 so far, Genevieve Wheeler’s debut novel “Adelaide” sits at the top of my list. Nominated for a 2023 Goodreads award and named a most anticipated book of 2023 by numerous journals, “Adelaide” was my favorite book of 2023, and it deserves every bit of praise it receives.
“Adelaide” achieves the rare: a perfect balance of plot and introspection. I made myself read the novel slowly so I could savor the writing. The prose was so good that I remember feeling as if I was floating through the book, captivated by its relatability and honest storytelling. As soon as I finished reading the novel, I knew it would be among my “favorites” bookshelf.
Wheeler’s story follows twenty-six-year-old Adelaide, a passionate, intelligent, American grad student living in London. She cannot help but fall into deep infatuation with Rory Hughes, a charming Englishman, even when he does not respond to her texts and repeatedly cancels their plans. When she’s with him, her world makes sense. However, when Rory’s life is met with unexpected tragedy, the faults in their relationship become more apparent. Adelaide has to struggle with the balance between loving Rory and losing herself.
Genevieve Wheeler’s debut novel explores the pain of growing up and loving someone who cannot and will not wholly love you back, all through the lens of a sensitive young adult. “Adelaide” delves into the damage undefined relationships can have on a person, the effects of one’s mental health and grief on a relationship and the importance of friendship when one feels one’s life is falling apart. The novel is honest and emotional; it cuts deep while carrying a sense of hopefulness.
One of my favorite moments in the novel is when Wheeler writes, “Adelaide Williams had a theory … that people entered our lives when we needed them most. In her mind, the same was true of books. The words of Orwell, Plath, and Louisa May Alcott had made their way onto her school syllabi when she most needed to read them; of this, she was certain.”
“Adelaide” made its way into my hands when I most needed it. I hope this story finds more readers, providing its relatability and incredible writing in the same way.
