Welcome to our deep dive into Renée Carlino's emotionally charged contemporary romance, Before We Were Strangers. This USA TODAY bestselling novel has captured hearts worldwide with its unique premise and raw emotional honesty.
What's It About?
Before We Were Strangers tells the story of a second chance at love that begins with a Craigslist "missed connections" post. Fifteen years after being separated in New York City, two former lovers find their way back to each other through an unexpected digital breadcrumb trail.
The novel alternates between past and present, unraveling the story of Matt and Grace—two young people whose intense connection was severed by circumstances beyond their control. When Grace spots a missed connections ad that seems to be directed at her, she must decide whether to take a leap of faith and respond to someone who might be the love she never forgot.
Why Readers Love It
The Emotional Journey: Readers consistently praise Carlino's ability to create characters who feel authentically flawed and deeply human. The dual timeline structure allows us to experience both the passionate intensity of young love and the mature complexity of second chances.
The "What If" Factor: The premise taps into something universally relatable—that person who got away, the sliding doors moment that changed everything. It's a story that makes you examine your own past relationships and wonder about the roads not taken.
Raw Authenticity: Unlike many romance novels that tie everything up neatly, this book doesn't shy away from the messy realities of life, love, and loss. The characters have endured real pain and grown from their experiences.
Discussion Points for Your Book Club
Timing vs. Destiny: Do you believe Matt and Grace were meant to be together, or was their separation necessary for their individual growth?
The Power of Memory: How do our memories of past relationships change over time? Are we sometimes in love with the memory rather than the person?
Digital Age Romance: What does this story say about how technology has changed the way we connect and reconnect with people?
Forgiveness and Growth: Both characters have made mistakes and experienced loss. How does the novel handle themes of forgiveness—both of others and ourselves?
Critical Reception
Readers describe it as "a heart-wrenching, truly unforgettable tale of second chances at love" with characters whose connection feels immediate and genuine. Many reviewers note that "the twist of fate, the second chance, the luck that reunites these two lovers after a fifteen year separation" creates an irresistible hook that pulls readers in from the opening pages.
The novel has been particularly praised for avoiding typical romance tropes while still delivering the emotional satisfaction readers crave.
Author Spotlight: Renée Carlino
Renée Carlino is a USA TODAY bestselling author known for her contemporary romance novels that blend humor, heart, and authentic emotion. Her other popular works include Sweet Thing and Nowhere But Here. Carlino has a talent for creating stories that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Food for Thought
As you read (or re-read) Before We Were Strangers, consider these questions:
- How do the characters' individual journeys during their fifteen years apart prepare them for their reunion?
- What role does New York City play as almost a third character in their story?
- How does the author use the dual timeline to build tension and emotional investment?
Share Your Thoughts
Have you read Before We Were Strangers? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Did the dual timeline work for you? How did you feel about the ending? Share your reviews and discuss with fellow readers in our community forum.
