A Family Affair: Nicely Written, Clever & Original Story

Well that was a pleasant surprise! Just scrolling through NetGalley the other day, and I came across A Family Affair. New author Rob Loveless (this looks like it’s his first published novel) puts his unique spin on an awkward family situation. Your ex is your sister’s new boyfriend? Plus, I’ll admit, the words “darkly humorous” in the précis grabbed my attention.

Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down, and I tore straight through A Family Affair. Loveless’ style is engaging and easy to read. It’s an entertaining story with well developed characters and complex, interesting relationships. The timing, the dialogue, and the humor all work.

My only complaint is that Cal’s ruminations became a bit repetitive. I started wondering if I was that obsessive in my early 20’s…? Though I guess if I’d been treated the way Cal was, by a jerk like Andrew, then I might have been.

Mr. Loveless lets the tale unfold in real time, and pops in a few flashbacks so we get to watch while Cal grows to realize how poorly he’s being treated by Andrew. What a player! This guy deserves everything he gets, and more.

The last two chapters are fantastic with a wonderful confrontation, and reconciliation, between the siblings. And a happily-for-now ending that I think pleases us all. Definitely looking forward to whatever Rob Loveless brings us next.