Lulu Moore's Oar Than Friends is a delightful exploration of love, ambition, and the age-old rivalry between two of the world's most prestigious universities, Cambridge and Oxford. The novel deftly combines the thrill of competitive rowing with the complexities of young love, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

At the heart of the story are Arthur Osbourne-Cloud and Kate Astley, two young rowers whose lives are on seemingly parallel tracks. Arthur, an Oxford student, is burdened by the expectations of his family, particularly his father, who envisions a political career for him. However, Arthur's true passion lies in rowing, and he dreams of Olympic glory. On the other hand, Kate, an ambitious American, has crossed the Atlantic to study medicine at Cambridge, driven by her own aspirations and the weight of a scholarship.

Their paths cross in the midst of the intense preparation for the annual Boat Race, a historic event that epitomizes the fierce competition between Oxford and Cambridge. The chemistry between Arthur and Kate is palpable from their first encounter, and Moore skillfully develops their relationship against the backdrop of this high-stakes rivalry. The tension between their personal desires and the expectations placed upon them adds depth to their characters, making them relatable and compelling.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of the theme of identity. Both Arthur and Kate grapple with the question of who they are versus who they are expected to be. Arthur's struggle with his father's expectations is particularly poignant, as he navigates the pressure to conform to a predetermined path while yearning to forge his own. Similarly, Kate's journey is marked by her determination to succeed in a male-dominated field, while also confronting her own desires and the possibility of love.

The setting of the novel is richly detailed, with Moore capturing the essence of both Cambridge and Oxford. The descriptions of the rowing scenes are vivid and immersive, transporting the reader to the banks of the River Thames. The Boat Race itself is a thrilling climax, with Moore expertly building tension and excitement as the outcome hangs in the balance.

In terms of character development, Moore excels in creating multidimensional protagonists. Arthur is not just a privileged young man with a passion for rowing; he is a character with depth, struggling with familial expectations and his own dreams. Kate, meanwhile, is a strong and determined woman, whose journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about romance. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and genuine emotion, making their relationship both believable and engaging.

Moore also introduces a cast of supporting characters who add richness to the narrative. From Arthur's overbearing father to Kate's supportive friends, each character plays a role in shaping the protagonists' journeys. These interactions provide additional layers to the story, highlighting the complexities of relationships and the impact of external influences on personal choices.

Comparatively, Oar Than Friends shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels that explore the tension between personal ambition and romantic entanglements. Fans of works like Emily Henry's Beach Read or Sally Thorne's The Hating Game will find Moore's novel equally captivating, as it balances humor, romance, and introspection.

Overall, Oar Than Friends is a compelling read that offers more than just a love story. It is a narrative about finding one's path, challenging societal norms, and embracing the complexities of life. Moore's writing is both engaging and insightful, making this novel a must-read for anyone who enjoys a story that is as much about personal growth as it is about romance.

In conclusion, Lulu Moore has crafted a novel that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Through the lens of a historic rivalry and the sport of rowing, she explores universal themes of identity, ambition, and love. Oar Than Friends is a testament to the power of storytelling, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on its audience.