What’s she reading?
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What’s she reading? *
Hello fellow book lovers!
I am finally launching this little corner of the internet to share my passion for books and my journey as an amateur reader. This space is for anyone who loves to get lost in the pages of a great story, but doesn’t necessarily have a lot of time to read—because let’s face it, life gets pretty hectic!
My hope is that we can talk about books we like, books we hate and even help some of you rediscover your love for reading, no matter how busy life gets!
A Busy year, but a year for books too
This year has been a whirlwind for me— work, personal life, and a whole lot of juggling. But in the midst of all that chaos, I’ve managed to carve out time for some truly fantastic reads. From dark memoirs to heartwarming romances, to stories about friendship and of course more fantasy. I’ve discovered so many incredible books that I can’t wait to share with you. I’ll be reviewing everything from my 2024 list into my 2025 reads, all the while sharing a little bit about my life this past year and going forward.
What’s to expect
You can expect reviews, recommendations, and book lists, but I’ll also be sharing a few personal reflections on how reading fits into my life—especially when there’s so much going on around me. I might even dip into some fun "bookish" products and accessories I’ve found along the way, because, let’s be honest, sometimes a cozy blanket and a cute mug are just as important to a reading session as the book itself!
So, join in on the conversation and I look forward to making our reading lists longer together. I’m so glad you're here to share in this adventure.
Happy reading,
Maria
It’s officially December… Can you believe it!?
January…
The perfect time to reset and reflect, so, at the beginning of the year I made myself two promises in regard to my reading goals for the year 2024. One was to make a reading list and keep track of my books and the other was to try to venture out to other genres besides smutty fiction…
I would say I kept both of my promises and it was a pretty good year for reading. Even with the wedding, the honeymoon, buying a house and getting pregnant! As I mentioned, this year has been busy!!
I managed to read three books in January, definitely started off strong and only two of them were what I would call smutty fiction… Let’s start with a book given to me for Christmas
“A Court of Silver Flames” by Sarah J. Maas
Maria’s rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Yep, I’ll just go ahead and admit it, “A Court of Silver Flames” is one of my five stars of the year. Also yes, I was pleasantly surprised that I already had a five star by the end of January.
Out of the whole ACOTR series, I would say my two favorites are “A Court of Mist & Fury” and “A Court of Silver Flames”. At their core, both ACOSF and ACOMF are about overcoming inner demons, finding strength within and loving oneself and finding love after trauma. I think part of the charm of Maas’ books, outside of the magical world she weaves with her words, is the way characters heal through unexpected relationships; it’s one of my favorite parts of all her books. Take for example Feyre and Rhys in ACOMF or Nesta and Cassian, and Nesta, Gwyn and Emerie in ACOSF.
At the beginning of “A Court of Silver Flames”, we find an angry, depressed, self-destructive Nesta who is trying to cope with the trauma she experienced at the end of “A Court of Frost and Starlight”. And by cope I mean, not cope, but instead numb her emotions with alcohol and sex. The book focuses primarily on her journey as she comes to terms with her trauma and learns just how to BE again.
To be honest, I had never been a big fan of Nesta and I never considered that Maas would write a book for the series from her perspective, but I was pleasantly surprised that she did! Nesta, as a protagonist, is a character that some readers may find difficult to relate to due to her past behavior in the earlier books and at the beginning of her story. I certainly did! However, “A Court of Silver Flames” humanizes her in a profound way. The book reveals her layers and provides her with the space to grow into a more sympathetic and inspiring character. I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing her growth throughout the story.
But, the other aspect of “A Court of Silver Flames” that I loved was the friendships and relationships she manages to build throughout her journey. Let’s start with the most obvious one, Nesta and Cassian. Spoiler alert! I loved that her relationship with Cassian didn’t just happen from one night to another. I feel that so many romance-fictions nowadays are so predictable. Girl hates boy, boy hates girl but they are immediately attracted to each other and within one day the chemistry sparks a budding relationship. Blah blah blah. Us ACOTR girlies know Maas likes to write that slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers relationship, and might I add, she writes it better than most! And while some readers might find the progression a bit frustrating at times, I felt that it worked well. The tension between Nesta and Cassian is palpable at times, a testament to how much she really hates him, her situation and her life in general, but, eventually he breaks through her walls and Maas ensures that their connection is rooted in mutual respect and deep emotional understanding. Nesta and Cassian are not just physical chemistry—they’re a partnership that grows stronger as both characters evolve.
One of the most heartwarming and empowering aspects of “A Court of Silver Flames” Maas is the evolving friendship between Nesta, Gwyn, and Emerie. While the romance between Nesta and Cassian steals much of the spotlight, Nesta’s bond with these two women adds an essential layer to her emotional journey. It's a relationship built on trust, shared experiences, and a mutual understanding of pain and healing. In a book that centers on trauma recovery, Nesta’s friendships with Gwyn and Emerie provided a refreshing and powerful contrast to the more typical romantic tropes in Maas’ stories.
So all in all, I highly recommend “A Court of Silver Flames”, a character-driven story that focuses on healing, self-acceptance, and finding love in unexpected places. If you’re a fan of the ACOTAR world or of the Maasverse, you’ll likely enjoy this book for its deep exploration of Nesta’s character and her complex relationship with Cassian. The romance is intense and satisfying, but the real strength of the book lies in its emotional depth and the portrayal of trauma recovery.
If you are already a Sarah J. Maas fan but haven’t read her series, A Court of Thorn and Roses, I highly recommend it. I think it’s her best series by far!
Finally, to end January…
“I’m Glad My Mom Died” by Jennette McCurdy
Maria’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
As a 90s baby, Disney and Nickelodeon made up a big portion of what I watched on television. I can tell you the shows I used to love and the shows I did not love. For example, I was never a big fan of Zoey 101 or Victorious. On the other hand, Lizzie McGuire, That’s So Raven, The Amanda Bynes show and iCarly always had my attention. When I learned Jennette McCurdy had written a memoir, I was intrigued. I always loved her in iCarly. I felt that she always played her role in such a genuine manner, she was funny and charismatic. To my great dismay, I was saddened to learn all the struggles she was going through from the media and eventually her memoir, but I so appreciated how vulnerable and authentic she was and has been through her healing journey.
The title "I'm Glad My Mom Died" is designed to grab attention and spark curiosity. However, it’s crucial to understand that McCurdy’s choice of words does not imply a desire for harm her mother, or even display a lack of love for her mother. It set's the tone for an unflinching exploration of her childhood. McCurdy’s writing is raw and vulnerable, capturing the struggles she faced as a child star pressured by her mother’s aspirations and insecurities. Through her storytelling, she explores themes of mental health, eating disorders, substance abuse, and the pursuit of approval, painting a clear picture of the impact her mother’s expectations had on her life. By expressing relief at her mother's passing, she reveals a sense of liberation from the intense pressure and expectations that had dominated her childhood.
What makes this memoir particularly compelling is McCurdy’s ability to blend humor with heartbreak. Despite the serious topics she addresses, she finds moments of levity that allow readers to connect with her and her journey. Her sharp wit shines through, making even the darkest moments relatable and engaging.
Overall, "I'm Glad My Mom Died" is a powerful memoir that will resonate with anyone who has faced the challenge of defining their own identity against external pressures. For readers who enjoy memoirs that tackle trauma, healing, and the impact of fame, “I'm Glad My Mom Died” is an unforgettable and transformative read. Jennette McCurdy’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery post trauma. Her honesty serves as a reminder of the strength it takes to reclaim one’s narrative. This book is not just a tale of survival; it’s a celebration of finding one's voice amidst the chaos. Highly recommended for those interested in stories that are both heartbreaking and inspiring.
The second book for January…
“Iron Flame” by Rebecca Yarros
Maria’s rating: ⭐⭐
This is the second book from the series, the first book is “Fourth Wing”, which I devoured at the end of 2023 and LOVED.
The story follows the journey of its protagonist, Violet, who is now caught in a whirlwind of conflict and complex relationships. In “Fourth Wing”, Violet is bad-ass, she is confident and kind and though small she is mighty, but in Iron Flame she became this woman that was so worried about her relationship, about the truth kept from her, she became whiny and weak and annoying.
In “Iron Flame”, the relationship between Violet and Xaden is central to the plot, but it struggles to reach the emotional depth and complexity that readers might expect from a romance-driven narrative. Despite the intensity of the situations they face, their connection often feels forced, and toxic only to finally develop after tragedy and leave a huge cliff hanger at the end! Violet, the more naïve and inexperienced character, relies on Xaden's strength and wisdom, while Xaden’s role as the stoic, detached lover borders on the cliché. The back-and-forth between them, while it has moments of intensity, mostly during the intimate (smutty) scenes, often feels repetitive and predictable.
The ending… Spoiler Alert Mother Sorrengail dies to save Violet she actually does love her daughter and all her children (big shock) , and Xaden becomes venin during the final battle. Oh! And Jack Barlow comes back to life as venin, so Xaden and him are like brothers? Like I’ve said, predictable, predictable, predictable.
I think the only redeeming aspect of this book is the dragons. While I can go without hearing about dragon sex scenes or potential sex scenes for the rest of my life, Anaranda’s adolescent sass mixed with Tairn’s fatherly bond were adorable and had me laughing the entire time. Something else that was predictable? I knew Violet would end up bonding with both dragons in “Fourth Wing”, so also not a big shock in “Iron Flame”… like why else would she get two dragons?! SMH.
Yarros’ writing is plain and repetitive. It attempts to build an atmosphere of suspense and raw emotion, but it often feels like the story is bogged down by a lot of melodrama and info dumping that never really develops into much. There is a heavy reliance on tropes that never quite feel right, and the climax and conclusion are predictable.
With all that said, yes, I will be reading the other three books and I hope the story comes to a full circle and Yarros’ can redeem herself.
Happy New Year!
We are officially live, which is equal parts exciting and nerve wracking, but welcome, I hope you stick around! I hope everyone had amazing end of year celebrations and enjoyed some time off to reset and recharge, ready to start the new year off with a bang! For me, a fun way to recharge is by reading, and guys, I read two great books in December that I can’t wait to share with you all! One of the books, is by an author I have already mentioned in my January 2024 reviews. The other is a new author to me, and I am really looking forward to continuing the series she started.
A quick administrative note; when I first started this blog I thought I would review all of my books from 2024 in chronological order, but, I quickly learned that book reviews take time and serious reflection. With everything going on in 2024 going into 2025, I have to put a lot of time and thought to the books I read last year, so I have decided to not necessarily go in order. My wish is to keep you on your toes, and also not run out of content while I read through the books in 2025 ;)
First on my list for December is…
“Shatter Me” by Tahereh Mafi
Maria’s rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5
“Shatter Me” is the first book of Tahereh Mafi’s dystopian series which is set in a world that has been ravaged by tyranny and war. In the first book, we meet Juliette, Adam and Warner. While the novel mostly follows Juliette transformation, I believe the series is going to delve deeper into all three of these characters in their own way.
The story begins by introducing Juliette who is kept in isolation because of her ‘deadly’ touch. In this book, Juliette grapples with this ability comparing herself to a monster that no one should be able to touch. However, towards the end of book one she comes to see this ability as a power which she doesn’t have to be afraid of. And one that, with the right training and support, she can harness to save the world and herself.
The superhero theme took me by surprise but it’s made me want to read more superhero books!The plot is a compelling blend of action, romance, and psychological conflict. As Juliette is thrust into a world of manipulation and control, she encounters Adam, a soldier with his own secrets, and Warner, the enigmatic and morally complex antagonist. The tension between these characters drives the narrative, adding layers to Juliette’s journey as she learns to embrace her powers rather than fear them.
Mafi’s writing style is one of the book's standout features. The prose is poetic, often reflecting Juliette's inner turmoil through vivid imagery and striking metaphors. The frequent use of crossed-out thoughts adds depth to her character, showcasing her vulnerability and desire for connection. Mafi’s exploration of themes like love, trust, and self-acceptance resonated deeply, her evolution from a frightened girl into a powerful force reflects a broader commentary on finding one’s strength amidst adversity. And I liked that the romantic elements, never overshadow Juliette's personal growth, making her journey both relatable and inspiring.
"Shatter Me" is a beautifully written debut that captivates with its emotional depth and compelling characters. Tahereh Mafi has crafted a hauntingly vivid world that invites readers to ponder the complexities of love, power, and the human spirit. This book is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and those who enjoy a deep dive into the psyche of a young woman discovering her strength. I am looking forward to the rest of her series and I hope you follow along with me!
My last book of the YEAR 2024 and a surprisingly great read…
“In The Likely Event” by Rebecca Yarros
Maria’s rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I would say that’s a full circle, huh? Started the year off with Rebecca Yarros and ended the year with Rebecca Yarros. I am happy to report that this book got a (much) better rating from me than “Iron Flame” and it made me want to read the rest of the books she’s written, so definitely expect more Yarros in my 2025 TBR.
“In the Likely Event” is an emotional romance novel that captures the impact of healing and second chances. The story revolves around the complex but irreplaceable relationship between Isabeau and Nathaniel. Isabeau, or Izzy, is a layered character—strong-willed, and yet vulnerable in ways that are relatable to every woman and girl that has ever wanted to be the “cool girl.” She is in love with a man but feels she can’t express it. While Nathaniel, or Nate, is the chivalrous, but detached guy who can’t fully commit to Izzy because he’s ‘not good enough, no smart enough, too damaged, has seen and done terrible things’ and so on.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is how it jumps back and forth from the past to the present and eventually introduces the reader to the whole history between Izzy and Nate. From their spontaneous meeting on a plane, in which they experiencing a plane crash together, to finding themselves face to face ten years later in the middle of a war in Afghanistan, Yarros keeps us hooked wanting (needing) to understand what events took place for them to have such animosity towards each other so many years later, even though it’s obvious they still love each other.
Themes explored in “In The Likely Event” would be love and second chances, healing from PTSD and survivor’s guilt, forgiveness and complexity of relationships, but not just romantic relationships, friendships and familial relationships as well.
If you decide to read the book, which I hope you do, have some Kleenex handy. Yarros did such a good job and sent me on an emotional rollercoaster, I could not put this book down and finished it in three nights!
Continuing the Romance w/ Emily Henry…
“Happy Place” by Emily Henry
Maria’s rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5
Leaving the smut behind, but continuing with the romance, I decided to read “Happy Place” by Emily Henry. I realized now that this was not my first Emily Henry novel, and to be honest, it was not my favorite either, but I’ll give it a 3.5.
"Happy Place" by Emily Henry follows the story of Harriet and Wyn, a couple who, despite being broken up for months, must pretend to still be together during a week-long vacation with their closest friends because the house they’re staying at (the happy place) will be sold by the end of the Summer. As they work together to maintain the façade, their complex feelings and unresolved issues with their relationship and with each other come to light and they realize that they are both still in love with each other.
The pros: Emily Henry’s writing is really beautiful and the storytelling is well done. She describes the setting of the New England coast so picturesque. I felt that her characters had a lot of depth and it did remind me of my own friend group. But more so than that, I felt that she was able to portray Harriet and Wyn and their relationship in a relatable way, that most readers could understand. I also felt she did a good job with the alternating timelines, I think is this a common theme in the other books I’ve read by her.
The cons: I did not like Sabrina or Parth, eh Cleo was ok, Kimmy was too much at times. Sabrina struck me as the friend that wants everything to go the way she wants it to go, and if it doesn’t, she freaks. There is no room for flexibility. Like she has a full weekend itinerary for pete’s sake. Parth seems cool, but super detached from everyone else, including Sabrina?
The breakup was all due to a HUGE misunderstanding and miscommunication on both Harriet and Wyn’s end. Yes, while that is relatable, because what relationship doesn’t have constant miscommunication and misunderstandings? It’s also infuriating and disheartening. After all Harriet and Wyn had been together eight years! A lot of the heartache could’ve been spared if Harriet and Wyn just talked.
My biggest con and probably an unpopular opinion — from what I’ve read a lot of people have issues with Wyn — I have an issue with Harriet. She is so focused on everyone but herself that she makes herself a martyr. And while I don’t think Wyn is perfect, like no dude, ya can’t just breakup with someone over the phone, especially not after being together eight long years… I think Wyn acknowledges that he is depressed and that he was really struggling which Harriet never really noticed. If you’ve ever been depressed or with a depressed partner, then you know that there is no mental capacity or motivation to chase ANYONE, which to me explains why Wyn just couldn’t anymore. And instead of Harriet being like OH, she’s like well then it must mean I’m not enough for you. SIGH. Harriet and most of the people that read this book wanted Wyn to fight, I wanted Harriet to stop holding stuff in and pay attention to anyone but herself. She pulls away from her friends, she pulls away from Wyn and anyone that asks her if she’s ok when she’s clearly not.
For me, what saved this book was the ending. After resolving their personal issues and communicating more openly, they come to understand what they truly want from their relationship, and what they want for each other. There is definitely a theme of self-discovery and the story concludes on a hopeful note. Harriet and Wyn choose to embrace a new beginning together, which will allow them to redefine their relationship in a way that is authentic and fulfilling for them both.
l love Emily Henry, but “Happy Place” was not it for me, it never really felt like a happy place tbh. I would recommend “Book Lovers” or “People We Met on Vacation” a hundred times over.
Romantic in February
Back in late January 2024, a few girlies and I decided to start a book club during a small (and overdue) Christmas party. At the party, we just started talking about all the books we were reading/had read and liked and the idea for the book club was born. Our goal was to meet once a month and talk about the book we read. It quickly evolve into not just a book club but a fun night in/night out club with the girls. To be honest with you, that feels like a lifetime ago now. This time last year, my husband and I were anticipating all the preparations still needed for our wedding in May and also preparing for a trip planned to Quito for pretty much the first half of February! My husband-to-be was going to meet my moms side of the family! Needless to say, I missed the first book club meeting and I think I only met up with them for March and maybe April? I really enjoyed hanging out with these ladies, reading through a couple of books with them, and so much more. We tapped into our creative sides making jewelry, we attended a pole dancing class (!!) and even went out for a girls night rodeo! But in the end, I decided a virtual book club was more realistic for me just because of the time and everything else we had to do before May.
In addition to that, I had decided to step away from the smutty, spicy fantasy genre and it seemed that all these girlies wanted to read was smutty, spicy books. At the beginning, I was fine with it because let me tell you, the first book we read for February book club was HOT. I mean, so hot that I recommend you add it to your list and read it. Heck, if you’re brave enough, share it with your SO and let him/her read a couple of pages out loud or to themselves and let the passion take over. Yes, I am so serious… !
“Priest” by Sierra Simone
Maria’s rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5
Let’s just get one thing straight about “Priest”, it’s porn or erotica, whatever you want to call it. The imagery is vivid and some of the pages were so explicit that I felt that I was seeing it, therefore to me it’s porn. Am I mad about it? Nope, not at all. Also a quick trigger warning, there are mentions of suicide and sexual assault.
The story follows Father Tyler Bell, a priest grappling with his vows, and trying to follow this path he embarked on three years ago after a family tragedy. Due to inappropriate sexual behavior by the previous priest of the church, he feels called to right the wrongs of the previous priest and build trust within his community and his church as a righteous priest who would never take advantage of the vulnerable. He also wishes to overcome his grief after his sister’s death by becoming this righteous man. Enter Poppy, a captivating character in her own right. She embodies both innocence and boldness, and she is as smart as she is beautiful — some would say the perfect package. A lawyer from the East Coast ends up at Father Bells church, because of her desires that stray from her upright, rich upbringing and the career path she followed. How do they meet? During confession, in which Poppy turns his world upside down when she confesses to Father Bell her sinful desire to be a exotic dancer and the guilt over the illicit activities she’s been engaging in as said exotic dancer.
So begins a forbidden relationship, marked by intense emotional and physical tension. The chemistry between these two characters is immediate, but as they continue to …ahem… see each other, Father Bell and Poppy share intimate conversations, revealing their vulnerabilities and allowing each other to connect on a deeper level, showcasing the emotional foundation of their relationship amidst the physical attraction.
As the reader, one would think the fact that a priest being tempted by this beautiful, promiscuous woman is taboo and wrong. He should have better control, especially considering his backstory. However I felt that, even though the book was filthy; in the end, it was a book about the complexities of human desire, in which both of the main characters go through a period of self-discovery and as cliche as this sounds, find true love and companionship. I thought it was also brave to combine such a sensitive topic with an explicit and mature rated novel. The deeper themes of faith and redemption are intriguing and they could have been explored further, leaving some readers wanting more depth in the philosophical aspects of the story. The other part of it it’s that if you are deeply religious then you might find parts of this book disrespectful, cliche and disappointing.
Overall, Priest is a bold and provocative read that will resonate with those who appreciate narratives that delve into the complexities of love and morality. While it may not be for everyone due to its explicit content and controversial themes, Simone's storytelling and character development make it a memorable experience for readers open to exploring the intertwining of passion and spirituality. I cannot emphasize this enough, the story IS a very spicy, very smutty piece and if you do end up reading it I suggest reading this with a lighthearted approach to the religious aspects of the story, and a preparedness to lose your panties.
January: The four stories that Captivated Me
If you’ve been following along, I had two books planned for January’s book club. LOL yeah, I should’ve known better.
Let’s just say that Winter time + pregnancy = a lot of downtime and some weekends it is the perfect time to get lost in a cute and fun story. Which is exactly what happened last Sunday, when I found myself reading a whole book in a day. Yep, one day.
To be honest not all four of the books I read “captivated me” but I think they all entertained me and just made me excited about reading more from these authors! I’m going to dive right in and start from my favorite and most captivating to least captivating.
“The Grace Year” by Kim Liggett
Maria’s rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What is it about January and five-star books!? “The Grace Year” had been on my list since last Spring but it sprung along with the wedding, purchasing a house, moving and the title and time just fell through the cracks. I added it to my Goodreads and bought it the same day earlier this year and here we are, with my second five-star read.
The Grace Year" by Kim Liggett is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that blends dystopian elements with profound social commentary. From the very first page, I was drawn into the haunting world Liggett has created, where young women are sent away for their 'Grace Year'—a ritual meant to rid them of their supposed dangerous power. Many Goodreads reviews compare it to “The Handmaids Tale” and “Lord of the Flies” which I thought was spot on.
Liggett’s writing is gritty, capturing the raw emotions and struggles of the protagonist, Tierney. Her journey amidst the oppressive societal norms is both empowering and heartbreaking. The complex characters are vividly drawn, each contributing to this thought-provoking narrative. As you can imagine, Tierney was a fighter, she wanted to survive even though she knew she would be married off, not just for herself but for her younger sisters. I admired how she kept her shit together, when it seemed that the girls all lost their marbles in the encampment.
What I loved most was how the novel explores themes of female empowerment, friendship, and the fight against patriarchal control. Even when the girls are turning their backs on Tierney, she is determined to get them healthy food, clean water… she is determined to give grace because she understands that they are all just trying to survive. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, and the twists and turns were both horrifyingly shocking but also satisfying. Liggett does not shy away from the darker aspects of this world, which only adds depth to the story.
I think what really made this a five-star read for me was the ending. The whole book had me by a chokehold, but I could not put the book down the last five chapters. There are so many happy surprises that gave me hope for the girls returning from their Grace Year and the ones going into it. Gave me hope that maybe Tierney would be able to change the county. I cried a lot at the end. LOL.
"The Grace Year" is not just a tale of survival; it's a powerful commentary on the expectations placed on women and the strength that comes from solidarity. I found myself reflecting on its themes long after I turned the last page. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a gripping story with heart and depth. Highly recommended!
P.S. I heard it might be adapted into a movie and I will definitely be there for that! Who would be cast and play a great Tierney!?!
“Just For The Summer” by Abby Jimenez
Maria’s rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
In "Just For The Summer" one might expect a charming romance, yet instead encounters a tale of love intertwined with trauma and healing. The narrative revolves around Justin, a programmer who believes himself cursed in love, as each of his breakups leads his exes to find their true partners while he remains alone. Emma, a traveling nurse, learns of Justin’s plight through a Reddit post and claims to share his curse. They embark on a whimsical plan to date, hoping that by doing so, they might finally meet their soulmates after parting ways.
However, both characters bear the weight of their own struggles: Emma grapples with a strained relationship with her mother and a fear of commitment, while Justin faces the daunting responsibility of caring for his three younger siblings after their mother’s imprisonment for embezzlement. As their connection deepens over just a few dates, the complexities of their lives challenge their initial intentions, bringing them face to face with their trauma.
Personally, the characters of the book that Jimenez creates are so relatable. Starting with the main characters: Justin is the epitome of the perfect gentleman, best friend, brother and soulmate. While Emma is the perfect independent woman, who tries to see the good in the world, even when her world is falling apart. The best friends are both people that anyone would want in their circle. Who go above and beyond to show that they care and love these two. Even the villains played the part wonderfully: Amber. Freaking. SUCKS.
All in all, I highly recommend this book, I read it in a day. The banter and immediate chemistry between Justin and Emma reminded me of the love between my husband and I. Truly, allow yourself to savor the witty dialogue and relatable character moments, and prepare to reflect on the emotional depth of their experiences. Keep a box of tissues nearby—there are moments of laughter just like there are moments of total heartbreak.