The Friend Zone

When precisely does Kristen begin to realize that she holds deeper feelings for Josh despite her unspoken misgivings? How does this internal shift contribute to her character development?

How does Jimenez employ common romance tropes to create conflict and tension?

Unpack the long-standing negative connotations of the phrase, “the friend zone.” Is the title of the novel meant to be interpreted positively, negatively, or both?

What roles do Sloan and Brandon play in the novel, and how would the essence of the story change if the entire narrative focus remained with Josh and Kristen alone?

How do Josh and Kristen’s prior relationships influence their current attitudes toward entering a new relationship? Use specific examples from the text to support your response.

Jimenez does not explicitly address Kristen’s planned hysterectomy and infertility until well into the story, but she does provide small clues early in the narrative. Discuss the subtle hints that indicate the nature of her physical conditions. What is the effect of delaying this information?

Compare and contrast Brandon and Josh. How do these two characters approach life challenges and important relationships? In what crucial ways do they differ?

Examine Jimenez’s approach to the physical and emotional impact of infertility. What perspectives does the novel offer?