20 best books on broken friendships – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you looking for a book that delves deep into the complexities of friendship? Look no further! We have curated a list of the 20 best books about broken friendships that will captivate you from start to finish. These books offer a unique insight into the intricacies of human relationships, exploring the highs and lows, the betrayals and reconciliations. Whether you have experienced a broken friendship yourself or simply want to explore the topic, these books are a must-read. Dive into the world of broken friendships with these captivating reads!


The Burning Girl

by Claire Messud

The Burning Girl by Claire Messud is a captivating novel that delves deep into the complexities of fractured relationships. It is a poignant book on broken friendships that explores the profound impact they can have on our lives.

The Female Persuasion

by Meg Wolitzer

The Female Persuasion: A Captivating Tale of Fractured Connections

Step into the world of The Female Persuasion by Meg Wolitzer, a remarkable novel that delves deep into the complexities of human relationships. Brace yourself for a story that explores the intricacies of broken friendships, as bonds are tested, shattered, and ultimately rebuilt.

Within the pages of this captivating book, Wolitzer skillfully weaves a tale of connection and disconnection, of the fragility of friendships and the power they hold. Through her vivid storytelling, she dives into the lives of her characters, exposing their vulnerabilities, their hopes, and their fears.

As you follow the lives of the protagonists, you will be transported to a world filled with ambition, loyalty, and betrayal. You will witness the transformation of relationships, the shifting dynamics, and the harsh realities that come with the passage of time.

Prepare to be drawn into the lives of Greer Kadetsky, the determined and ambitious young woman seeking inspiration, and her mentor, the legendary feminist Faith Frank. Together, they embark on a journey that will challenge their beliefs, test their loyalties, and force them to confront the complexities of their own identities.

Throughout the narrative, Wolitzer’s keen observations and masterful prose shine a light on the intricacies of human connection. She explores the depths of broken friendships, revealing the ways in which they can shape and define us. With every turn of the page, you will find yourself captivated by the raw emotions and compelling storylines that permeate the novel.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey that will leave you pondering the complexities of human relationships, then The Female Persuasion is the book for you. Prepare to be enthralled by Wolitzer’s masterful storytelling as she unravels the intricate web of broken friendships and the power of connection.

The Interestings

by Meg Wolitzer

Meg Wolitzer’s The Interestings is a captivating novel that delves into the intricate dynamics of shattered connections. This spellbinding tale explores the complexities of relationships in a way that will leave readers spellbound.

The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a captivating literary masterpiece that delves into the intricate web of human relationships. At its core, it is a book on shattered bonds and the profound impact they can have on our lives.

The Secret History

by Donna Tartt

The Secret History is a captivating novel that delves into the dark and twisted world of shattered relationships. This literary masterpiece by Donna Tartt is not just another book about broken friendships; it is an intricate exploration of the human psyche and the bonds that can unravel in the face of intense secrets and deception.

The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is an emotionally gripping tale that delves into the depths of shattered relationships and the power of resilience. This captivating book explores the intricacies of fractured friendships and the profound impact they can have on one’s life.

The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale, written by Kristin Hannah, is an extraordinary tale that delves deep into the intricate web of shattered bonds and fractured relationships. This magnificent novel, often described as a profound exploration of the human spirit, is more than just a book on broken friendships. It is a riveting masterpiece that weaves together the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, against the backdrop of World War II.

The Immortalists

by Chloe Benjamin

The Immortalists: A Spellbinding Tale of Fractured Bonds

Welcome to the captivating world of The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin, a mesmerizing masterpiece that delves into the intricate web of shattered relationships.

Prepare to be transported to 1969 New York City, where four impressionable siblings seek the guidance of a mystical fortune teller. As they sit in her parlor, they each receive a prophecy revealing the exact date of their death. This singular revelation sets in motion a chain of events that will forever alter the course of their lives.

With a touch of magic and a dash of fate, Benjamin skillfully weaves a tale of broken friendships, exploring the profound impact of these severed bonds on the lives of her characters. She paints a vivid portrait of the unbreakable ties that bind siblings together, only to be tested and strained by the weight of their knowledge.

As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into the lives of Simon, Klara, Daniel, and Varya, each grappling with their own mortality. Simon, driven by his untamed spirit, navigates the vibrant yet treacherous world of San Francisco’s gay scene during the 1980s. Klara, a talented magician, battles to find her place in the art world while wrestling with her inner demons. Daniel, burdened by the weight of responsibility, seeks solace in medicine, making choices that fracture the bond with his siblings. Varya, an esteemed scientist, becomes consumed by her quest for longevity, sacrificing her emotional connections along the way.

Through her impeccable storytelling, Benjamin poses thought-provoking questions about fate and free will, love and loss, and the intricate dance between life and death. She expertly captures the essence of human connection, exploring the beauty and fragility of friendships that can be irreparably damaged.

The Immortalists is a breathtaking exploration of the human condition, delving deep into the complex emotions that arise when friendships are shattered and the profound impact it has on the lives of those involved. Benjamin’s exquisite prose will leave you spellbound, pondering the intricate tapestry of human relationships long after you turn the final page.

The Nest

by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney

The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney is a captivating novel that delves deep into the intricate dynamics of fractured relationships. This compelling story explores the complexities of family bonds, unspoken resentments, and the impact of long-held secrets on the lives of its characters.

The Vacationers

by Emma Straub

The Vacationers by Emma Straub is a captivating novel that dives deep into the complexities of fractured relationships and shattered bonds. This gripping tale explores the intricate dynamics of a group of friends and family as they embark on a sun-soaked vacation in paradise, only to discover that the idyllic setting cannot mend their broken connections.

The Girls

by Emma Cline

The Girls by Emma Cline is an exhilarating novel that delves into the complexities of fractured relationships and the lasting impact they can have. This captivating book explores the depths of human connection, focusing on the intricate dynamics of shattered friendships.

Within its pages, Cline unravels a tale of vulnerability, manipulation, and the yearning for acceptance. Set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1960s, the story follows Evie Boyd, a young girl captivated by a group of enigmatic girls who are seemingly free from the constraints of society.

As Evie becomes increasingly entangled with this mesmerizing group, she is drawn deeper into their web of broken bonds and damaged connections. The novel brilliantly portrays the fragility of friendships, exposing the scars left behind when trust is shattered and loyalties are tested.

Cline’s writing is both haunting and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the emotional turbulence that accompanies broken relationships. She masterfully captures the essence of human longing, showcasing the desperate search for connection that can lead to both profound joy and devastating heartbreak.

The Girls is a gripping exploration of the intricacies of broken friendships, reminding us of the power they hold over our lives and the lasting impact they can leave. This thought-provoking novel is a must-read for anyone who has experienced the tumultuous highs and lows of human connection.

The Light We Lost

by Jill Santopolo

The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo is a captivating book on broken friendships that will tug at your heartstrings from start to finish. This poignant and deeply emotional novel explores the complexities of relationships and the lasting impact they can have on our lives.

The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas

The Hate U Give

Are you ready to dive into a world of raw emotions, shattered loyalties, and the power of finding your voice? Look no further than The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of society, as seen through the eyes of sixteen-year-old Starr Carter.

In this thought-provoking novel, Thomas masterfully explores the theme of broken friendships in a way that will leave you breathless. Set in a neighborhood plagued by violence and racial tensions, Starr grapples with the aftermath of witnessing her childhood best friend, Khalil, being shot by a police officer.

As Starr navigates the aftermath of this tragic event, she finds herself torn between two worlds: the poor, predominantly black neighborhood where she lives and the elite, predominantly white prep school she attends. Her struggle to maintain her identity and find her place amidst these conflicting environments forms the heart of this powerful story.

The Hate U Give is a book on broken friendships that challenges us to confront our own biases and prejudices. It forces us to question the true nature of loyalty and the lengths we are willing to go to protect those we care about. Through Starr’s journey, Thomas explores the deep-rooted issues of systemic racism, police brutality, and the importance of using our voice to fight for justice.

Prepare to be captivated by Thomas’ compelling storytelling, as she weaves together a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and empowering. With its authentic portrayal of complex characters and the harsh realities of our society, this book about broken friendships will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.

The Mothers

by Brit Bennett

The Mothers by Brit Bennett is a captivating and poignant exploration of the intricacies of shattered relationships and the lasting impact they have on our lives. This powerful novel delves into the depths of broken friendships, exposing the raw emotions and complex dynamics that lie beneath the surface.

The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of a broken friendship, shrouded in silence and mystery.

The Friend

by Sigrid Nunez

The Friend by Sigrid Nunez is a captivating and poignant exploration of the complexities of human relationships, focusing particularly on the theme of shattered bonds. This remarkable novel delves into the intricate dynamics of friendships that have been fractured, unveiling the profound impact such ruptures can have on our lives.

The Lying Game

by Ruth Ware

The Lying Game: A Gripping Tale of Deceit and Betrayal

Step into the world of The Lying Game, a thrilling novel by Ruth Ware that explores the complex web of broken friendships, secrets, and lies. In this captivating tale, four old school friends, Isa, Kate, Thea, and Fatima, find themselves entangled in a dangerous game that threatens to unravel the truth and destroy their lives.

Isa, the main protagonist, receives a haunting text message from Kate, one of her closest friends, that simply says, “I need you.” Unable to resist the call, Isa rushes back to Salten, the idyllic coastal town where they spent their teenage years. There, she reunites with her friends, revisiting a past that they had all tried to forget.

As memories resurface, it becomes clear that the four friends share a secret, a secret that binds them together and sets them apart from the rest of the world. The Lying Game, a game they played as teenagers, involves telling lies to others without getting caught. But now, the lies they once told are catching up with them, threatening to expose the truth and shatter the fragile bond they have left.

The story unfolds through Isa’s perspective as she navigates the treacherous waters of Salten, desperately trying to protect her friends and herself from the consequences of their past actions. With each turn of the page, the tension builds, and the stakes become increasingly higher.

In The Lying Game, Ruth Ware expertly crafts a tale of broken friendships, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of secrets. With her masterful storytelling, she keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages to uncover the truth.

Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you delve into this gripping novel. Ruth Ware’s The Lying Game will leave you questioning who you can trust and just how far someone will go to protect their secrets.

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a captivating thriller that takes you on a spine-chilling journey through the tangled web of broken friendships. This gripping novel explores the lives of three women whose tangled lives and shattered relationships collide in unexpected and shocking ways.

The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars: A Book on Fractured Bonds

Looking for a heart-wrenching, tear-jerking read that will make you appreciate the beauty of life? Look no further than The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. This contemporary masterpiece explores the profound impact of broken friendships with utmost brilliance.

In this captivating tale, Green takes us on a rollercoaster journey through the lives of two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet at a cancer support group. Despite their fragile health and the challenges they face, the duo forms a deep connection that transcends the boundaries of their physical conditions.

Through his poetic prose and clever wit, Green delves into the complexities of broken friendships, highlighting the immense power they hold to shape and transform our lives. As Hazel and Gus navigate the murky waters of illness and love, they discover that even in the face of adversity, friendship can be a beacon of hope.

Prepare to be enthralled by Green’s ability to capture the raw emotions and vulnerabilities of his characters, leaving readers with a profound sense of empathy and understanding. With a narrative that seamlessly combines heartbreak and humor, The Fault in Our Stars is a book about broken friendships that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

So, grab a box of tissues and dive into this poignant masterpiece that reminds us that even in the darkest of times, friendships have the power to heal and bring light into our lives. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary journey that will leave you breathless and grateful for the friendships that mend the broken pieces of our hearts.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

by Stephen Chbosky

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is an extraordinary book on broken friendships. It delves deep into the intricacies of human relationships, exploring the complexities and challenges that come with friendships that are shattered, damaged, or simply lost along the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about broken friendships offer a captivating exploration of the complexities and challenges that arise when friendships crumble. From heart-wrenching betrayals to unspoken resentments, these stories delve deep into the intricacies of human relationships. Whether you’ve experienced a broken friendship yourself or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject, these books are sure to leave a lasting impact. So, grab a copy and get ready to embark on an emotional journey through the highs and lows of friendship.