“Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney offers a fresh lens into themes of human connection, complex relationships, and self-discovery, extending Rooney’s well-known literary style in capturing the nuances of modern life. The book centers on fleeting but impactful encounters that probe the intricacies of desire, introspection, and personal growth. With her sharp, introspective prose, Rooney dives into the spaces between her characters’ actions and inner lives, crafting a narrative that resonates with the quiet struggles and transient beauty of everyday life. As characters navigate love, loss, and ambition, Rooney weaves an intermezzo—a reflective pause—into the routine of her readers’ lives, prompting them to consider the underlying emotions and motivations that shape their own connections. In “Intermezzo,” Rooney continues her exploration of the human psyche, underscoring how the most ordinary moments often hold the most profound revelations.