While I understand the desire to find solace in literature, “The Break-Up Artist” by Erin Clark unfortunately falls short of expectations. As someone who has had a challenging time connecting with the storyline, particularly as a wheelchair user, this book marks my second one-star read this year. The premise of assisting others by ending relationships seems to stem from a misguided notion that people should rely on themselves to navigate emotional struggles, which resonated poorly with me.
My primary concern, however, lies in the unrealistic portrayal of the romantic interest—a hot, tattooed, straight, single man seemingly tailored to the protagonist’s every desire. This character’s extraordinary attributes, including shared interests, emotional openness, and sudden financial gain, stretch the boundaries of plausibility even within the realm of romance and fantasy. While I recognize the genre’s tendency toward wish fulfillment, the narrative’s lack of grounding in reality proves to be a significant detractor.
Despite my disappointment, I acknowledge the importance of diverse representation in literature, and while this book didn’t resonate with me, it might still hold appeal for others. If you’re intrigued, I encourage you to explore the audiobook version through the link provided below.