The Premise of ‘Slow Dance’

Rainbow Rowell’s ‘Slow Dance’ is a witty, insightful, and uncompromising romance that captures the emotional intricacies of real-life relationships. The novel masterfully uses the concept of time to explore the changes in its central characters, Cary and Shiloh, who were best friends during their high school years in Omaha, Nebraska.

The Characters of Cary and Shiloh

Cary and Shiloh are introduced as an ‘odd couple’ of best friends. Cary, the quiet and focused Navy ROTC kid, contrasts sharply with Shiloh, the theater nerd and counterculture girl. Despite their differences, they were inseparable, creating a bond that seemed destined for more than friendship. However, life took them on diverging paths, and they haven’t spoken in 14 years.

Reunion and Rediscovery

The novel’s present-day setting takes place in 2006, where Cary returns to Omaha for a mutual friend’s wedding. Cary’s life has followed a predictable path, and he is now a Navy officer. In contrast, Shiloh finds herself as a divorcée with two kids, living in her mother’s rundown house. The reunion explores how much they have changed, and yet, how their love for each other remains resilient, hinting at the possibility of rekindling their relationship.

Rainbow Rowell’s Unique Storytelling

What makes ‘Slow Dance’ particularly engaging is Rowell’s stylistic choice to begin many chapters with the word “before,” providing a window into Cary and Shiloh’s past. This narrative technique enriches the story, allowing the reader to understand the characters’ backgrounds and the evolution of their relationship. Rainbow Rowell, known for her beloved bestsellers for adults and teens, showcases her ability to craft authentic and emotionally resonant tales.