TL;DR
- Kim Narby’s ‘Saturn Returning’ explores complex relationships.
- The book features a love triangle that subverts traditional tropes.
- It highlights the importance of platonic love in queer lives.
- Characters navigate personal growth and emotional turmoil.
- The narrative is rich with lesbian cultural references.
Hold onto your hats, darlings, because Kim Narby’s debut novel, Saturn Returning, is here to shake up your notions of love and friendship in the queer world. This book opens with a bang—literally! When introverted wallflower Jordan meets the golden-retriever-like Trace during their freshman year, sparks fly. But just as things heat up, in waltzes the stunning Silvia, and suddenly, it’s a love triangle that feels more like a family reunion than a simple friendship.
Fast forward ten years, and we find Trace and Silvia happily engaged in Seattle, while Jordan is living it up in New York City, chasing her dreams in photography. Everything seems perfect—until Trace kisses her fiancé goodbye and confesses to Jordan that she’s in love with her. Talk about a plot twist! Narby takes us on a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of love, friendship, and the messy realities of adult relationships.
What makes this novel a standout is its remarkable pacing. The present-day timeline spans just one week, while the past covers a decade, yet Narby masterfully keeps the reader engaged without feeling rushed or bogged down. You’ll find yourself glued to the pages, propelled by her sharp, observant prose that captures the raw humanity of her characters.
Trace, the ambitious Capricorn, dreams of a perfect life—complete with a dog, a wife, and a corporate ladder to climb. But as she becomes increasingly obsessed with Silvia, we see her lose sight of herself. It’s a cringe-worthy, yet relatable journey that many of us have experienced—trying to mold ourselves to fit someone else’s needs. Meanwhile, Silvia, the free-spirited Fire Sign, is torn between her desire for adventure and the safety of her relationship. Her struggles with commitment and self-identity are depicted with a refreshing honesty that resonates deeply.
And then there’s Jordan, the no-nonsense Aries who works as a photographer in the bustling chaos of New York City. Unlike the typical romanticized view of the city, Jordan’s disdain for it adds a unique flavor to the narrative. She’s the grounded observer amidst the emotional turbulence of Trace and Silvia’s relationship, providing a much-needed breath of fresh air.
What truly sets Saturn Returning apart is its celebration of platonic love. Narby deftly illustrates that friendships can be as intimate and complex as romantic relationships, especially in the queer community. The characters grapple with their identities and the expectations placed upon them, revealing the often-overlooked depth of their bonds.
As the story unfolds, we witness the characters’ growth and the painful truths they must confront. Jordan’s reflections on her decade-long friendship with Trace highlight the intricate dynamics that come with knowing someone intimately. Narby doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of love—she shows us that it’s messy, imperfect, and often involves hurting those we care about the most.
Ultimately, Saturn Returning is not just a story about romance; it’s a profound exploration of the queer relationships that shape us. Narby crafts a narrative that is both relatable and enlightening, reminding us that love comes in many forms and that the bonds we forge with friends can be just as significant as those with lovers. As we navigate our twenties, this book serves as a powerful reminder of the cosmic connections that guide us through the chaos of life.
So, mark your calendars—Saturn Returning hits the shelves on May 5, 2026. Don’t miss out on this essential read that promises to resonate with anyone who has ever loved deeply, whether platonically or romantically.
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