Does marriage get boring? Do we find flaws in our spouses? Do we always handle tragedies well? INTERMISSION tells the story of an extremely likable couple who have us cheering for them to get past the inevitable disappointments that go with marriage.

Friedland has crafted the novel about the Coynes, Jonathan and Cass, and how they dealt with life’s imperfections. Their plan was a 6 month “intermission “ to make decisions about their future. Of course, life goes on piling crisis after crisis on the two during their separation. It is in the handling of these moments that the reader sees the essential goodness in the couple and wishes they could understand that all marriages have their secrets and flaws.

Yes, they both experience other partners, but they both turn to each other for support. Despite their bi-coastal lives, there remains a strong connection. It is a final near death for one of them that allows them to realize how much they love and depend on each other.

I loved the ending, no spoilers, and found myself delighted with the perfect resolution. Thanks to the author for providing such a realistic view of marriage and such a hopeful future for the Coynes!

My reading style: supernatural fiction, YA

Why I requested this: recently been feeling a draw towards 'marital drama' books, even though they are wide outside my usual preference. Am also drawn towards books that explore open relationships or pushing the boundaries of a relationship.

Overall impression: Did not finish around 8%. I do often feel guilty giving up on books generously provided to me by netgalley, but it was obvious to me quite early on that I was not the right reader for this book. It was a fluke request for me; as stated, it is far outside my usual preference, but the plot premise intrigued me - I thought I might be entertained by some juicy marital drama and hookups. That being said, I could not connect with the voice of the narrator and was unable to be drawn into the story, but I am not the right audience for it.

Who would like this: fans of fiction focusing on marital relationships; those who enjoyed 'The Arrangement' by Sarah Dunn, 'The Rules Do Not Apply' by Ariel Levy, or perhaps 'Wedding Toasts I'll Never Give' by Ada Calhoun.