xAnts

Navigating the complexities of modern friendship and the sting of loss, Jessica Seaborn's debut novel, *Isn't It Nice We Both Hate the Same Things*, is already generating buzz. The story begins with a seemingly innocuous text message – a casual invitation to reconnect. “I haven’t seen you in forever! We should catch up.” But what follows is a poignant exploration of relationships, departures, and the quiet ache of loneliness in a vibrant, ever-changing city like Sydney.

Seaborn, who initially arrived in Sydney knowing only two people, found herself intimately familiar with the transient nature of friendships in a bustling metropolis. This personal experience forms the bedrock of the novel, lending it an authenticity that resonates deeply. The narrative unfolds through a series of text messages, emails, and fleeting encounters, charting the evolving dynamic between two women over the course of a year.

The initial spark of reconnection quickly gives way to a deeper understanding of each other’s lives, their struggles, and their shared frustrations. The women find solace in their mutual dislike of certain things – a shared cynicism that binds them together. But as time passes, circumstances shift, and the foundations of their friendship are tested. One woman's life takes an unexpected turn, leading to a gradual distancing and a sense of inevitable parting.

Seaborn masterfully captures the nuances of female friendship, showcasing the unspoken tensions, the quiet resentments, and the enduring loyalty that can exist even amidst change. The novel isn't a dramatic, high-stakes affair; instead, it’s a subtle and observant portrayal of everyday life, highlighting the small moments that shape our relationships and define our sense of belonging. The setting of Sydney itself becomes a character in the story, its vibrant energy contrasting with the underlying sense of isolation that permeates the characters' lives.

*Isn't It Nice We Both Hate the Same Things* is a timely and relevant exploration of contemporary friendship, offering a window into the challenges of maintaining connections in a world of constant flux. It’s a novel that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, prompting reflection on the nature of loss, the importance of connection, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go. It's a must-read for anyone who's ever felt the pang of a friendship fading, or the displacement of moving to a new city.