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A Perfect Place to Cry
Rowan isn’t sure she believes in love. Not the romantic type, anyway. She’s been hiding from the prospect of it for years now, an easy thing to do when you live in the middle of an eighty acre campground. She likes her quiet existence, greeting campers, pitching tents, and kayaking on the little river that leads to Lover’s Lake. Besides, her best friend Amber fills her life with enough love related dama for the two of them.
Indie knows a thing or two about secrets. She’s good at keeping them and exceptional at being one. When her three year love affair comes to an abrupt end, heartbroken, she begins to question everything she thought she knew about life and love. But it’s not as easy as simply moving on. Not when her ex can’t seem to let her go. When an accidental invite forces her into close proximity with her secret lover, Indie decides to accept.
Will she be able to get through this and find the closure she’s looking for? Sometimes the answers we seek aren’t as important as the answers we find.
Hearts Can Heal
Indie knows a thing or two about secrets. She’s good at keeping them and exceptional at being one. When her three year love affair comes to an abrupt end, heartbroken, she begins to question everything she thought she knew about life and love. But it’s not as easy as simply moving on. Not when her ex can’t seem to let her go. When an accidental invite forces her into close proximity with her secret lover, Indie decides to accept.
Will she be able to get through this and find the closure she’s looking for? Sometimes the answers we seek aren’t as important as the answers we find.
Hearts Can Heal
470 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2023
72 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
S-Jay Hart
4 books32 followersS-Jay Hart can be found sipping tea and reading, most of the time. When she’s not doing these things she can be found camping, hiking or shamelessly pretending she’s a dinosaur, astronaut, or butterfly, with 30 small children. She started writing when she was a teenager, creating a fictional world with friends, and has over sixty notebooks filled with stories and ideas. She lives with her two teen humans, her two doggos and her furry beta-buddy Brenda.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 21, 2023
If I would have to describe S-Jay Hart writing style in one sentence I would tell you that I can’t. I would love to describe it in the way S-Jay Hart describes things in her stories, but I feel like I literally don’t have the words. Like I would want to give her and her stories the justice she deserves. But it’s not only the words, it’s all the feelings she makes me feel. Having aphantasia means I don’t see things, it’s why words matter so much to me. So I feel them when I read. And let me just say there is rarely an author out there who makes me feel so much like S-Jay Hart. The way she describes her character’s feelings, it’s like I feel them myself. She pulls you in and makes you a part of the story. She makes you wanting to have them as your friends or at least be a tiny part of your life.
For me Rowan and Indie couldn’t be more perfect for each other. Both were hurt deeply by others and are lost. One of them believes she isn’t made for love and probably won’t ever find it. The other thought she has found hers only to find out, it’s not what she thought or hoped for. There is just this deep hurt in both of them. It made me wanna hug them so hard and tell them it will be ok. But of course that wasn’t needed, because what they needed was to find each other. When they meet it feels like a veil in front of their eyes was lifted or like a wall was torn down. Things start to fall into place and trust slowly starts to build.
I know so far I haven’t said much about the story but I feel like I don’t wanna spoil anything. And for me what mattered way more than the storyline was how I felt. How I was sad and cried during some scenes. How I related to the loss, to the lack of trust, to not believing you’re worthy to be loved etc. Like when you get so deeply insecure, that you don’t believe there is a light at the end of the tunnel. But also how much I smiled and laughed during other scenes. The laughing definitely had to do with a certain side character I fell in love with. Ok ok there were more than one side character I loved, but this feisty redhead definitely got to me the most.
Like I already said before S-Jay Hart has a way to describe things. She puts words out there I’m just in awe. Once again we get such beautiful references to books and other things. It’s like having a combo between fiction and lyric. Because she isn’t just an author but also a poet. And I just adore this combo. I don’t think she even realises herself what a huge talent she has with her storytelling or rather her way with words. For me this is unique. It’s a uniqueness I want to see more of it. Yes, I am totally selfish and hope we get more by her very soon.
I don’t wanna say that I love this book more than Oh My Stars. I love both stories very much in their own way. So I will just say they both get the number one spot. Maybe this story contains more hurt and sadness in some parts, but it also contains so much hope. Hope of finding happiness and actually finding it. Most of all it’s about finding yourself and to know you are worthy, you are enough just the way you are.
Thank you S-Jay Hart for taking me on this journey. Thank you for making me feel all of these things. I know these characters will stay with me and I can’t wait for more. 🥰
For me Rowan and Indie couldn’t be more perfect for each other. Both were hurt deeply by others and are lost. One of them believes she isn’t made for love and probably won’t ever find it. The other thought she has found hers only to find out, it’s not what she thought or hoped for. There is just this deep hurt in both of them. It made me wanna hug them so hard and tell them it will be ok. But of course that wasn’t needed, because what they needed was to find each other. When they meet it feels like a veil in front of their eyes was lifted or like a wall was torn down. Things start to fall into place and trust slowly starts to build.
I know so far I haven’t said much about the story but I feel like I don’t wanna spoil anything. And for me what mattered way more than the storyline was how I felt. How I was sad and cried during some scenes. How I related to the loss, to the lack of trust, to not believing you’re worthy to be loved etc. Like when you get so deeply insecure, that you don’t believe there is a light at the end of the tunnel. But also how much I smiled and laughed during other scenes. The laughing definitely had to do with a certain side character I fell in love with. Ok ok there were more than one side character I loved, but this feisty redhead definitely got to me the most.
Like I already said before S-Jay Hart has a way to describe things. She puts words out there I’m just in awe. Once again we get such beautiful references to books and other things. It’s like having a combo between fiction and lyric. Because she isn’t just an author but also a poet. And I just adore this combo. I don’t think she even realises herself what a huge talent she has with her storytelling or rather her way with words. For me this is unique. It’s a uniqueness I want to see more of it. Yes, I am totally selfish and hope we get more by her very soon.
I don’t wanna say that I love this book more than Oh My Stars. I love both stories very much in their own way. So I will just say they both get the number one spot. Maybe this story contains more hurt and sadness in some parts, but it also contains so much hope. Hope of finding happiness and actually finding it. Most of all it’s about finding yourself and to know you are worthy, you are enough just the way you are.
Thank you S-Jay Hart for taking me on this journey. Thank you for making me feel all of these things. I know these characters will stay with me and I can’t wait for more. 🥰
Read
June 24, 2023If you follow the author, you are familiar with her poetry. You will find it here, her prose is undeniably beautiful, making the characters poets of their own, with really deep and gorgeous lines. Hart’s voice is so strong that sometimes, I closed my eyes I envisioned her instead of the characters speaking.
Two broken souls findind each other, is a theme that Hart seems to cherish.
Rowan, was deeply hurt but she has a giant heart. She survived the last years thanks to her best friend that gave her a chosen family, but she is scared that aknowledging it would lead to losing it.
Indie totally lost herself in a "non" relationship where she wanted to give everything while receiving not much. She is THE hopeless romantic. She got me frustrated sometimes and I felt like I was Joey at some point : wanting to tell her some of her decisions are really bad ideas and not always understanding her.
Indie's ex is a narcissist, never wanted a relationship with her. But even knowing it, Indie's feelings were so huge, she only saw the good things Steph gave her, even if they were unbalanced by the bad ones, almost in a Stokholm syndrome way. There comes Rowan, her princess charming, the horse being replaced by a truck, the castle by a tent. I just loved her character.
Indie and Rowan take a lot of time to find each other, dragging my heart into a long pain. When their paths finally cross, it’s like instant sparks and feelings. I am more a slow burn kind of girl, but seeing them making each others whole again was so warm to read, soothing the pain I felt before. I wish I could have more of them and less of Steph, the queen of mean. Amber is a side character but she won’t let you indifferent. I can't wait to read her story.
If you want to lose yourself in a flow of beautiful words, lots of feelings and romantic nature settings, this book is for you.
Two broken souls findind each other, is a theme that Hart seems to cherish.
Rowan, was deeply hurt but she has a giant heart. She survived the last years thanks to her best friend that gave her a chosen family, but she is scared that aknowledging it would lead to losing it.
Indie totally lost herself in a "non" relationship where she wanted to give everything while receiving not much. She is THE hopeless romantic. She got me frustrated sometimes and I felt like I was Joey at some point : wanting to tell her some of her decisions are really bad ideas and not always understanding her.
Indie's ex is a narcissist, never wanted a relationship with her. But even knowing it, Indie's feelings were so huge, she only saw the good things Steph gave her, even if they were unbalanced by the bad ones, almost in a Stokholm syndrome way. There comes Rowan, her princess charming, the horse being replaced by a truck, the castle by a tent. I just loved her character.
Indie and Rowan take a lot of time to find each other, dragging my heart into a long pain. When their paths finally cross, it’s like instant sparks and feelings. I am more a slow burn kind of girl, but seeing them making each others whole again was so warm to read, soothing the pain I felt before. I wish I could have more of them and less of Steph, the queen of mean. Amber is a side character but she won’t let you indifferent. I can't wait to read her story.
If you want to lose yourself in a flow of beautiful words, lots of feelings and romantic nature settings, this book is for you.
July 23, 2023
A Perfect Place To Cry by S-Jay Hart is a gorgeous contemporary romance about letting love in and finding the person that makes you shine the brightest.
Rowan was abandoned by her parents at age 16. She has a found family that couldn’t love her more, but although she knows this and feels the same way about them she still keeps a little of herself hidden. She’s scared that if she gives herself to someone completely then it will hurt too much when they eventually leave.
Indie has allowed herself to be hidden from the world by her now ex. Sure she was in an open relationship but what she didn’t expect was to be kept in the shadows for three years. Heart broken but also knowing that she is better off,
Indie did not expect to feel and instant connection to a tall gorgeous woman who came to her rescue.
Rowan and Indie both feel sparks from the moment they meet, but also something deeper. Something that both never thought was possible. Together they must learn to be open, trust and allow love to rescue them.
Get the tissues ready for this one people, the title says it all.
This book is a gorgeous romance but it’s also a book in which you get to know the romantic leads individually before they even meet. This is crucial to how the story unfolds. Without their backstories the reader wouldn’t know the whys and how’s.
Because of this when Rowan and Indie do meet that instant, undeniable connection makes perfect sense. The feelings and sparks between them jump off the page, it’s electric and all consuming and I couldn’t stop turning the page.
The vulnerability that Rowan and Indie share with each other took my breath away. The courage it takes for both to step into the unknown and trust that they will be okay is beyond admirable.
This author has a way with words. Her descriptive writing style is beautiful. She gives the reader every detail so that you feel the breeze, the chill of the rain and see the colours of the rainbow. Hart describes physical emotions just as well, I felt heartbeats and the quickness of breath, it put me in the moment beautifully.
The journey these characters go on is gorgeous and not just because they find love at the end. It’s because they come to realise what they already have, what’s important and that it’s ok to be vulnerable because there is someone there to catch you, if you’re willing to accept it.
A Perfect Place To Cry has passion, heat, spice and stunning friendships that will last a lifetime. Sure it’s emotional but it’s also warm and fuzzy and will leave you longing for more.
I totally recommend this book, curl up in your favourite reading spot and get lost in this scrumptious world
(Arc received from the author)
Rowan was abandoned by her parents at age 16. She has a found family that couldn’t love her more, but although she knows this and feels the same way about them she still keeps a little of herself hidden. She’s scared that if she gives herself to someone completely then it will hurt too much when they eventually leave.
Indie has allowed herself to be hidden from the world by her now ex. Sure she was in an open relationship but what she didn’t expect was to be kept in the shadows for three years. Heart broken but also knowing that she is better off,
Indie did not expect to feel and instant connection to a tall gorgeous woman who came to her rescue.
Rowan and Indie both feel sparks from the moment they meet, but also something deeper. Something that both never thought was possible. Together they must learn to be open, trust and allow love to rescue them.
Get the tissues ready for this one people, the title says it all.
This book is a gorgeous romance but it’s also a book in which you get to know the romantic leads individually before they even meet. This is crucial to how the story unfolds. Without their backstories the reader wouldn’t know the whys and how’s.
Because of this when Rowan and Indie do meet that instant, undeniable connection makes perfect sense. The feelings and sparks between them jump off the page, it’s electric and all consuming and I couldn’t stop turning the page.
The vulnerability that Rowan and Indie share with each other took my breath away. The courage it takes for both to step into the unknown and trust that they will be okay is beyond admirable.
This author has a way with words. Her descriptive writing style is beautiful. She gives the reader every detail so that you feel the breeze, the chill of the rain and see the colours of the rainbow. Hart describes physical emotions just as well, I felt heartbeats and the quickness of breath, it put me in the moment beautifully.
The journey these characters go on is gorgeous and not just because they find love at the end. It’s because they come to realise what they already have, what’s important and that it’s ok to be vulnerable because there is someone there to catch you, if you’re willing to accept it.
A Perfect Place To Cry has passion, heat, spice and stunning friendships that will last a lifetime. Sure it’s emotional but it’s also warm and fuzzy and will leave you longing for more.
I totally recommend this book, curl up in your favourite reading spot and get lost in this scrumptious world
(Arc received from the author)
December 26, 2023
4.5 stars
This was very, very good. An interesting writing style, I liked the characters (except those I was meant to dislike) and even though the love story was a bit quick, it somehow still wasn't unbelievable. So yeah, I was very happy when reading it.
This was very, very good. An interesting writing style, I liked the characters (except those I was meant to dislike) and even though the love story was a bit quick, it somehow still wasn't unbelievable. So yeah, I was very happy when reading it.
June 26, 2023
S-Jay has given us another beautifully written book that charmed me with her beautiful writing and amazing characters.
When she was 16, Rowan came home from school one day to find her house locked and all of her belongings in a box on the front porch. Her parents had moved. Deserted her. Betrayed her. She slept in a treehouse until Mrs. Calendar took her in to live with her and her children, Amber and Christopher.
With Rowan being considered a member of the family, the three of them became very close, but when Christopher announced that he was engaged to Stephanie, the red flags went up for Amber and Rowan because they saw Stephanie as the “Queen of Mean” for her cruel treatment of Rowan in high school. They felt betrayed by this news. Oh, but that’s not all! Stephanie was also in a clandestine relationship with the lovely Indy, leaving her devastated and feeling betrayed when Stephanie announced her engagement to Christopher….a man.
Because of the short timeline and a complicated situation, Amber was assigned the task of planning the bachelorette weekend, which became a camping trip in the great outdoors at Aurora Acres.Those who had been betrayed really didn’t look forward to this, but agreed to go as support for Christopher. What happened during the camping trip proved to be significant, but that’s all I’m going to say.
This book has so much depth to it as the author expresses and speaks from the heart with her poetic prose that, at times, made me stop so I could reread lines and simply enjoy her words.
The story moves to the outdoors, the perfect place to cry, where the cleansing water and fresh air provided an atmosphere for finding truths, solutions, healing….and love. This was all just so beautifully expressed by S-Jay, to be able to communicate about love to the reader, and show that, yes, it’s easier to find love in
nature.
….“Love is described in all kinds of ways. Tentative first touches, kisses that steal your breath away…..”
…”Water runs like people from their problems; washes away imperfections….”
….being at the campsite was a little different. It’s easy to forget the outside exists….”
I loved this book, the memorable characters and know that I can’t wait to read it again. Congratulations S-Jay, on your beautiful creation.
When she was 16, Rowan came home from school one day to find her house locked and all of her belongings in a box on the front porch. Her parents had moved. Deserted her. Betrayed her. She slept in a treehouse until Mrs. Calendar took her in to live with her and her children, Amber and Christopher.
With Rowan being considered a member of the family, the three of them became very close, but when Christopher announced that he was engaged to Stephanie, the red flags went up for Amber and Rowan because they saw Stephanie as the “Queen of Mean” for her cruel treatment of Rowan in high school. They felt betrayed by this news. Oh, but that’s not all! Stephanie was also in a clandestine relationship with the lovely Indy, leaving her devastated and feeling betrayed when Stephanie announced her engagement to Christopher….a man.
Because of the short timeline and a complicated situation, Amber was assigned the task of planning the bachelorette weekend, which became a camping trip in the great outdoors at Aurora Acres.Those who had been betrayed really didn’t look forward to this, but agreed to go as support for Christopher. What happened during the camping trip proved to be significant, but that’s all I’m going to say.
This book has so much depth to it as the author expresses and speaks from the heart with her poetic prose that, at times, made me stop so I could reread lines and simply enjoy her words.
The story moves to the outdoors, the perfect place to cry, where the cleansing water and fresh air provided an atmosphere for finding truths, solutions, healing….and love. This was all just so beautifully expressed by S-Jay, to be able to communicate about love to the reader, and show that, yes, it’s easier to find love in
nature.
….“Love is described in all kinds of ways. Tentative first touches, kisses that steal your breath away…..”
…”Water runs like people from their problems; washes away imperfections….”
….being at the campsite was a little different. It’s easy to forget the outside exists….”
I loved this book, the memorable characters and know that I can’t wait to read it again. Congratulations S-Jay, on your beautiful creation.
February 22, 2024
This was a good, good read 😊! Hear me out S-Jay Hart: how about treating us to a sequel featuring Jocelyn and Amber? 🤭😁
August 2, 2023
A beautifully written romance. It feels like reading poetry (which I had no idea that the author does until after I finished the book and saw from some of the reviews). Both the MCs and the supporting characters are wonderfully written. Highly recommend!
August 29, 2023
Instant Favorite
No spoilers. I read on KU, but I ordered the paperback version when I got to 52% of the book. I wanted to have a tangible copy. This will be a book I’ll reread in the future. PLEASE, say there will be another.
No spoilers. I read on KU, but I ordered the paperback version when I got to 52% of the book. I wanted to have a tangible copy. This will be a book I’ll reread in the future. PLEASE, say there will be another.
September 24, 2023
✨a perfect place to cry✨
»i am not who you left behind. i am loved.« two broken souls, a loyal redhead, a dog & a place called aurora acres. if you want to heal parts of yourself, read rowan & indie's journey of overcoming their fears and insecurities to trust in love again.
»i am not who you left behind. i am loved.« two broken souls, a loyal redhead, a dog & a place called aurora acres. if you want to heal parts of yourself, read rowan & indie's journey of overcoming their fears and insecurities to trust in love again.
November 25, 2023
this was beautiful
July 7, 2023
Oh My Heart
"A Perfect Place To Cry" by S-J Hart is an absolute masterpiece that deserves nothing less than five stars. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster that left me breathless. From the very beginning, I was drawn into Rowan's world of doubt and self-discovery. The way she navigates her quiet existence in the campground, accompanied by her vivacious best friend Amber, is both relatable and endearing.
Indie's journey, on the other hand, touched my heart deeply. Her struggle with secrets and heartbreak resonated with me on a profound level. The author's ability to explore the complexities of life and love is truly commendable.
I found myself laughing and crying as the story unfolded. The ups and downs, the heartache and happiness, all blended seamlessly to create a captivating narrative. The accidental invite that forces Indie to face her past and find closure adds an exciting twist to the plot.
In "A Perfect Place To Cry," S-J Hart delivers a poignant tale that reminds us that sometimes the answers we find are more important than the ones we seek. This book is a must-read for anyone who craves an emotional and thought-provoking journey. Prepare to be captivated and moved by this incredible work of art.
I really hope we get to see Ambers story next. The author did a phenomenal job really getting me invested in the characters.
"A Perfect Place To Cry" by S-J Hart is an absolute masterpiece that deserves nothing less than five stars. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster that left me breathless. From the very beginning, I was drawn into Rowan's world of doubt and self-discovery. The way she navigates her quiet existence in the campground, accompanied by her vivacious best friend Amber, is both relatable and endearing.
Indie's journey, on the other hand, touched my heart deeply. Her struggle with secrets and heartbreak resonated with me on a profound level. The author's ability to explore the complexities of life and love is truly commendable.
I found myself laughing and crying as the story unfolded. The ups and downs, the heartache and happiness, all blended seamlessly to create a captivating narrative. The accidental invite that forces Indie to face her past and find closure adds an exciting twist to the plot.
In "A Perfect Place To Cry," S-J Hart delivers a poignant tale that reminds us that sometimes the answers we find are more important than the ones we seek. This book is a must-read for anyone who craves an emotional and thought-provoking journey. Prepare to be captivated and moved by this incredible work of art.
I really hope we get to see Ambers story next. The author did a phenomenal job really getting me invested in the characters.
July 5, 2023
beautiful
Ok, so I’m gonna need a second book quick! I don’t care if you hadn’t planned that but I need one stat…I have questions that need answers…
This is such an amazing book. If you read the author’s previous then you know to expect a story that just grabs hold of you from the first chapter. You get to know and understand both main characters thanks to the duel POV…something that is sometimes lacking in other books. I kinda get why some people have said you might need tissues while reading…but the way both MC’s realise they are worth more than they previously thought and start to believe the words being spoken, that made me smile.
You really have to read this book. It will make you laugh, cry and smile. And if your anything like me…hope that we get more of the same…as I said, I have questions!
Ok, so I’m gonna need a second book quick! I don’t care if you hadn’t planned that but I need one stat…I have questions that need answers…
This is such an amazing book. If you read the author’s previous then you know to expect a story that just grabs hold of you from the first chapter. You get to know and understand both main characters thanks to the duel POV…something that is sometimes lacking in other books. I kinda get why some people have said you might need tissues while reading…but the way both MC’s realise they are worth more than they previously thought and start to believe the words being spoken, that made me smile.
You really have to read this book. It will make you laugh, cry and smile. And if your anything like me…hope that we get more of the same…as I said, I have questions!
August 25, 2023
First third: holy trauma dumping, Batman! There's a lot of trauma to go around in various aspects of feeling enough for family or your partner to love you, and abandonment issues by the ton.
Middle third: Super cute, lots of flirting.
Last third: A lot of healing from trauma and healthy conversations, which is excellent to see.
My least favorite trope is miscommunication or just not communicating when it's all you need to resolve conflicts and I'm really pleased to see a lot of romances, including this one, going the opposite way and modeling healthy discussions of insecurities, fears, and honestly talking about where their head space is.
Middle third: Super cute, lots of flirting.
Last third: A lot of healing from trauma and healthy conversations, which is excellent to see.
My least favorite trope is miscommunication or just not communicating when it's all you need to resolve conflicts and I'm really pleased to see a lot of romances, including this one, going the opposite way and modeling healthy discussions of insecurities, fears, and honestly talking about where their head space is.
September 29, 2023
Wonderful read
Very well written. The main characters' sadness was very real. Their developing relationship was consistent and beliveable. It left me feeling peaceful and encouraged. Who doesn't want to believe in the lasting power of love and acceptance? Will definitely read anything else from this author.
Very well written. The main characters' sadness was very real. Their developing relationship was consistent and beliveable. It left me feeling peaceful and encouraged. Who doesn't want to believe in the lasting power of love and acceptance? Will definitely read anything else from this author.
June 23, 2023
S-Jay Hart
A Perfect Place to Cry
Arc
New Release
Sapphire Lakes
Evermore I love that name
Rowan has experienced a lot of disappointment in her life, starting with her parents abandoning her because of her best friend Amber and her family's acceptance of her. Despite finding herself, Rowan remains closed off and afraid of needing others. The only person she's willing to let get close is Amber and her grandmother, who has always treated Rowan like family. The Calendars took Rowan in and provided love and safety, but her scars from her parents' actions prevent her from fully acknowledging their kindness. She fears no one will ever want her because of her family's actions, causing internal conflict. Mrs. Calendar loves Rowan deeply and believes she will never abandon her.
Indie had a secret affair with Steph for three years, only for Steph to end it and inform her she was marrying a man. Indie stood by Steph through tough times, helping her get back on her feet, only for Steph to leave her heartbroken.
Rowan and Amber feel the loss of Christopher's presence as he stopped meeting up with them at the cabin for game nights and life conversations. They mourn the loss of their childhood friendship.
Indie's love for Emily is beautiful, and Emily's mother is a kind soul. Jocelyn is a soft spot for Indie, and they add depth to the story's supporting cast. The groom and bride plan to host their premarital festivities at the campground, and Rowan agrees only for her love for Christopher. Amber's grandmother and little Emily bring a gentleness to the story.
Rowan's parents showing up causes concern, as she's an adult and taking care of herself. Indie and Rowan's chemistry is instant and healing, and they both can't stop thinking about each other. Rowan treats Indie like a queen, and their love story is beautiful.
The author's words about believing in oneself and beginning again are enchanting. This book is a must-read, and the author deserves success. Thank you to S-Jay Hart for the arc. The book is now available on Amazon KU. PS: S-Jay Hart, your soul is gentle and radiates a bright light that never fades!
September 18, 2025
Good story, with great characters. Too many inner monologues.
The story is good, except for the lack of conflicts/obstacles.
The characters, both main and side, are excellent! They are lovable (apart from those who aren't supposed to be liked), they are flawed, and they are real. I think it is the book's strongest aspect.
Another strong point is the setting, especially the camping ground. An attractive, realistic, and downright charming place that I'd love to visit.
There's a plot hole that I can't ignore regarding the brother's upcoming wedding with one of the side characters. We don't get to hear about them after the Bachelor/Bachelorette weekend, and that's weird and annoying.
Also, the monumental amount of similes and metaphors weaved into the MCs' inner monologues becomes too much at some point, and the monologues themselves are the only evidence of conflict we get. Inner conflict is great, especially when it's resolved with external help that shows attention and care. But in this case, it is just so much more than necessary. I felt the author repeated herself multiple times without justification.
Having said all that, I still believe this is a good book worth reading and quite charming :)
Rating: 4 stars
The story is good, except for the lack of conflicts/obstacles.
The characters, both main and side, are excellent! They are lovable (apart from those who aren't supposed to be liked), they are flawed, and they are real. I think it is the book's strongest aspect.
Another strong point is the setting, especially the camping ground. An attractive, realistic, and downright charming place that I'd love to visit.
There's a plot hole that I can't ignore regarding the brother's upcoming wedding with one of the side characters. We don't get to hear about them after the Bachelor/Bachelorette weekend, and that's weird and annoying.
Also, the monumental amount of similes and metaphors weaved into the MCs' inner monologues becomes too much at some point, and the monologues themselves are the only evidence of conflict we get. Inner conflict is great, especially when it's resolved with external help that shows attention and care. But in this case, it is just so much more than necessary. I felt the author repeated herself multiple times without justification.
Having said all that, I still believe this is a good book worth reading and quite charming :)
Rating: 4 stars
April 9, 2024
This was a very in depth book about dealing with the bad situations/circumstances that life throws at you. Indie and Rowan were developed so well, the writing was so beautifully written that it was able to convey complex emotions and thoughts to me.
The best part of this was both of them healing each other by loving each other. The romance development wasn't the best, but the process of opening up, crying, reassuring each other, and dealing with their trauma were all something that made my heart warm.
However, there were certain things not concluded, i wanted more info on steph and chris but i guess it was meant to be concluded in such an open manner. I definitely wanted more time on the side characters but oh well.
4 stars.
The best part of this was both of them healing each other by loving each other. The romance development wasn't the best, but the process of opening up, crying, reassuring each other, and dealing with their trauma were all something that made my heart warm.
However, there were certain things not concluded, i wanted more info on steph and chris but i guess it was meant to be concluded in such an open manner. I definitely wanted more time on the side characters but oh well.
4 stars.
July 1, 2023
I will be up-front here and say that I beta read this one in multiple forms. It drew me in right back when I read an early draft back in the winter... and S-Jay made me wait to see the end!!
I don't think you will ever find a more beautifully written book in Sapphic fiction. The description is just... perfect. You see S-Jay's cover design skills? That picturesque cover? She creates those incredible images within her writing, too.
I dare you not to fall in love with Rowan and Indie. Strong, seemingly-impenetrable Rowan and heartbroken Indie... a match made in heaven, and brought to life by S-Jay's way with words. Love and emotion is imbued into every page, and thus you will find yourself laughing and crying in equal measure. (And wanting to meet Bear the dog in real life.)
Highly recommend this book. 110 per cent. Five stars.
I don't think you will ever find a more beautifully written book in Sapphic fiction. The description is just... perfect. You see S-Jay's cover design skills? That picturesque cover? She creates those incredible images within her writing, too.
I dare you not to fall in love with Rowan and Indie. Strong, seemingly-impenetrable Rowan and heartbroken Indie... a match made in heaven, and brought to life by S-Jay's way with words. Love and emotion is imbued into every page, and thus you will find yourself laughing and crying in equal measure. (And wanting to meet Bear the dog in real life.)
Highly recommend this book. 110 per cent. Five stars.
July 8, 2023
OMG what a beautiful story! I have been smiling, laughing or crying from page one until the last word!
S-J Hart has a magical writing style that grabbed my attention right away and did not release me until the end. The characters are so livid in my mind, the story so touching. I want to meet these characters for real! The setting has grown beautiful in my mind and I can smell the trees and the rain as it falls. This is writing that I dream about reading! I will look for more by Ms Hart to purchase and support real artistry like this and you should to!
S-J Hart has a magical writing style that grabbed my attention right away and did not release me until the end. The characters are so livid in my mind, the story so touching. I want to meet these characters for real! The setting has grown beautiful in my mind and I can smell the trees and the rain as it falls. This is writing that I dream about reading! I will look for more by Ms Hart to purchase and support real artistry like this and you should to!
July 27, 2023
Heartfelt
This is a very touching and beautifully written story. It delves into our worst fears of heartache and rejection, it's filled with interesting characters that I really engaged with. The story itself has quite a few threads weaving through it, a few left un explored, so I hope this author is going to treat us to more. I want to continue with little Emily, her mother is intriguing, her best friends etc. Please say there's more.
This is a very touching and beautifully written story. It delves into our worst fears of heartache and rejection, it's filled with interesting characters that I really engaged with. The story itself has quite a few threads weaving through it, a few left un explored, so I hope this author is going to treat us to more. I want to continue with little Emily, her mother is intriguing, her best friends etc. Please say there's more.
July 2, 2023
Great
I am not very good at this, but I wanted to tell you hoe very much I enjoyed your book.
It was every thing a good romance should be. I laughter and cried, I was happy and sometimes a little sad. I got involved with the characters and loved Emily and the grandma. Looking forward to reading another one of yours.
I am not very good at this, but I wanted to tell you hoe very much I enjoyed your book.
It was every thing a good romance should be. I laughter and cried, I was happy and sometimes a little sad. I got involved with the characters and loved Emily and the grandma. Looking forward to reading another one of yours.
November 17, 2023
Super Good
This was a very unexpected, but a wonderfully good story. I really enjoyed it!! It popped into my recommendation, and I decided to read it, but I will look for other books by S-Jay Hart.
This was a very unexpected, but a wonderfully good story. I really enjoyed it!! It popped into my recommendation, and I decided to read it, but I will look for other books by S-Jay Hart.
February 21, 2024
A Perfect Romance
This book is phenomenal. I will definitely read it again soon. What a beautiful way to put broken hearts and people together again. No more secrets, no more abandonment.
This book is phenomenal. I will definitely read it again soon. What a beautiful way to put broken hearts and people together again. No more secrets, no more abandonment.
June 16, 2024
love it
I had this book on my reading list for so long and I’m glad that I waited so long to read it because it was so freaking good. I love how real both of the characters were in their faults and in the different ways people love and how they talked about how they view the world. I love theconnection that they had. It was an amazing book overall. I luv it. I wish it was longer.
I had this book on my reading list for so long and I’m glad that I waited so long to read it because it was so freaking good. I love how real both of the characters were in their faults and in the different ways people love and how they talked about how they view the world. I love theconnection that they had. It was an amazing book overall. I luv it. I wish it was longer.
June 20, 2024
Beautiful writing it's a fact. The author has the words. Perks : beautiful to read. Down : every character is a poet
What annoyed me : Indie's character who plays victim all along when Stephanie (who's written like a charicatural disney villain) told her the truth from the start. Indie blaming every one else but herself for being a fool ..meh
What annoyed me : Indie's character who plays victim all along when Stephanie (who's written like a charicatural disney villain) told her the truth from the start. Indie blaming every one else but herself for being a fool ..meh
October 1, 2024
The prose is so good that it honestly does hit the line of "normal people do not speak like this" but is definitely good enough that it doesn't matter. Beautiful work and I hope to read more from Hart in the future.
November 8, 2025
It was sweet and thoughtful, and I enjoyed it until the last quarter, where the pace slowed to a crawl. The main drama was resolved, and then it turned into dissertations upon dissertations about love. Overall, it was still a positive experience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2023
An emotional read but highly recommended.
July 30, 2023
Great read
Really enjoyed the book and the characters are well written. I highly recommend reading this book you won't be disappointed.
Really enjoyed the book and the characters are well written. I highly recommend reading this book you won't be disappointed.
August 30, 2023
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