(I received an ARC for this book)
Declan stole my heart from the start. He came in like a white knight, ready to fight all of Claudia’s demons. It broke his heart to know she was free falling and feeling guilty about it. He wanted to help, needed to help, in any way he could. Everyone adores Claudia, especially Declan’s family. Who have been her own family for her whole life. She doesn’t want handouts, and unfortunately, she sees asking for help as handouts. She doesn’t understand that it’s just loved ones showing their love. I adored Declan’s bond with her son. Declan has BIG feelings, and he’s honest with them. He gives Claudia the chance to hold the ball in her court, because he’ll take anything she offers him. Declan never stops reassuring her how important her and Jay are to him, to his family. That they are never alone. I absolutely loved that he didn’t wear baby gloves with her. He offered her comfort, understanding, acceptance, a shoulder, and the hard truth. And while I loved everything I just mentioned, I absolutely did NOT like anything involving her mother or her ex. It was all very icky. Especially the things involving the ex. Was it added just for shock factor? Trust me, there were enough emotions involved, I didn’t feel like that sudden intrusion so close to the end was necessary. As a single mom, I relate to Claudia in ways I won’t share here, but I will say this, I appreciate her character. And for Declan, for reminding me of my worth.
My Favorite Quotes:
• “Make me feel good. I'm begging you."
• “You deserve the world, and I’m gonna give it to you.”
• “No matter how hard you try to hide yourself, I see you.”
• “The hottest thing I’ll probably ever see is you wearing my clothes.”
• “I’m carrying my dreams in these arms.”
• “These stay up here, and I’ll make sure you have a damn good time.”
• “Take me and show me what I’ve been missing.”
• “If I thought you’d be receptive to it, I’d promise you the rest of our lives.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
7/10 (Reverse) Age Gap
6/10 Second Chance
8/10 Single Parent
7/10 Sister’s BFF