Before We Were Innocent: A Dive into a Tumultuous Friendship
Ella Berman’s Before We Were Innocent caught my attention not only because of its tantalizing premise but also due to my experience with her previous work, The Comeback. Just like that book, this new one explores the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and the overwhelming weight of past decisions. As I delved into the world of Elizabeth ‘Bess’, Joni, and Evangeline, I felt compelled to reflect on my own friendships—where trust can sometimes feel as precarious as standing on the edge of a cliff.
The story centers around Bess, Joni, and Evangeline, three girls whose bond is unshakeable until a tragic night in Mykonos changes everything. What begins as a carefree escape—complete with sun, sea, and flirtations—quickly spirals into a dark mystery when Evangeline falls to her death after a night of high spirits. The aftermath finds Bess and Joni grappling with their own guilt and the haunting question: how much can one truly trust a friend, especially after the past resurfaces in unexpected ways?
Berman does an admirable job of capturing the chaotic nature of young adulthood—the desire for freedom, the thrill of romance, and the betrayal of friendships dissolving under pressure. The book weaves together two timelines that unfortunately felt meandering at times, leading me to wishes for a more focused narrative. While the nostalgic elements of teenage drama are relatable, I often found myself wishing for a tighter pace or deeper emotional engagement. It left me grappling with thoughts reminiscent of Sean Covey’s words: “Make as many friends as you can, but don’t build your life on them alone.”
One notable aspect, both a strength and a dominant force throughout the novel, is Berman’s writing style. While her prose can be beautifully descriptive—immersing readers in the vibrant landscape of Greece—there are moments where it felt excessively verbose. I found myself skimming through lengthy passages, particularly during introspective sections that felt repetitive without adding much dimension to the story. Though the writing has moments of brilliance, I wished for a sharper focus, which might have amplified the emotional stakes.
Despite its flaws, Before We Were Innocent provides poignant reflections on loyalty, trust, and the often uncomfortable truths buried beneath friendships. The quote that stands out is the haunting remembrance of a life lost too soon, serving as a reminder that every bond carries the weight of choices made—from the carefree laughter of youth to the sobering reality of consequences.
Though I ultimately rated the book 3 stars, reflective of its ups and downs, I believe that fans of coming-of-age stories might find value in its exploration of tumultuous friendships. Berman’s novel grapples with what it means to navigate not just the loss of innocence, but also the fragility of trust in a complicated world.
In conclusion, I’d recommend Before We Were Innocent to readers craving a nostalgic yet cautionary tale—a reminder that sometimes, the past doesn’t just echo; it reverberates with lessons we must learn, again and again. Whether you find yourself enchanted by its characters or frustrated by its pacing, it’s a story that lingers long after the final page is turned.