How We Loved

Leighton River #2

by Lauren Runow

We’re just friends, is the biggest lie we’ve ever told ourselves.


Maya

Everyone assumes I’ll end up with Ben Turner.

That’s the trouble with living in a small town. There’s no such thing as privacy.

No one understands that we’ve been in the friend zone our entire life.

But what I’m having trouble understanding these days is why Ben hates my new boyfriend. It’s almost like he’s trying to ruin my relationship.

So, what’s a girl supposed to do when her best friend is standing between her and her happily ever after?

Ben

I promised to always protect Maya.

And if that means keeping the jerks in town away from her, so be it. She deserves better anyway.

But she thinks this new guy is the one. She’s wrong. He’s not good enough for her.

Hell, I’m not good enough for her.

So, when he lets her down—and I know he will—I’ll be there. I’ll do whatever she needs.

Because I’m not about to let anyone ruin my relationship with the most important person in my life.

How We Loved, book 2 in the Leighton River series, is a friends-to-lovers, new adult/sports romance with plenty of emotional and angsty moments and some spicy times. Preorder it today and get ready to fall in love with Maya and Ben.

Genres: Young Adult, Friends To Lovers, Sports Romance, Small Town Romance

329 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 14, 2024

About the author

Lauren Runow is the author of multiple Adult Contemporary Romance novels. When Lauren isn't writing, you'll find her listening to music, at her local CrossFit, reading, or at the baseball field with her boys. Her only vice is coffee, and she swears it makes her a better mom!

Lauren is a graduate from the Academy of Art in San Francisco and is the founder and co-owner of the community magazine she and her husband publish. She is a proud Rotarian and was awarded Woman of the Year from Congressman Garamendi. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two sons.


You can also stay in touch through the social media links below.

Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/laurenjrunow

Instagram at https://instagram.com/Lauren_Runow/

BookBub at https://www.bookbub.com/authors/laure...

Twitter at https://twitter.com/LaurenRunow

Join her reader group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/16285...

or sign up for her newsletter at http://bit.ly/2NEXgH1

Reviews

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love angst in mature YA books!

They're figuring themselves out and what all their emotions mean.

This is going to be really good!!

[Wonder Tre Reads -Tre Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book, it’s a standalone in a series that can be read in any order but there’s no doubt that you’ll want to read them all. We’re told a story that is wrapped around compassion and friendship and love on so many levels. Ben is a person that when he commits it’s for life. I adore Maya and can understand where she’s coming from but boy oh boy I cannot stand Trevor. Usually there’s a character that no one likes and I feel many readers will agree that he got way at was coming in the end. This story is a rollercoaster ride of emotions, I was not prepared for the letters at all. A relatable read that will have you connecting with these characters instantaneously. Eli is still a bit mysterious and I cannot wait for his story in the future (hint hint Lauren Runow, please don’t make us wait too long). Beautifully written, wonderfully told.

[Erin Under_Covers_Smut_Lover · Rating 5 out of 5]

(Advance Readers Copy)

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶

Lauren Runow is such an amazing author. The power in her words to be able to write a YA Romance, yet have so many real-world adult issues and feelings. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster through what Maya goes through and what Been is willing to do for her.

Tropes:
- YA
- High School Love
- Friends to Lovers
- Band of Friends
- Found Family
- Angst

Maya is getting to figure out her place in this world. Her and Ben have always been best friends. There is nothing they wouldn't do for each other. Even though everyone sees them as more, they reassure people that their not.

Maya wants to date and feel that special connecting with someone. Every time she seems to find a make to date, her guy friends, especially Ben, always run them off. She can't seem to figure out why.

When Maya had had enough of it and pushed him away. Ben steps back and lets Maya date this other guy. Even though Ben can't stand this, he lets her make her own decisions. Hoping that she comes back to him.

When Maya gets herself into something troubling with this guy, she turns and runs for Ben. Needing him to help her in this emotional part of her life. She's scared that she's ruined things between them and realizes that she may feel more for Ben than she thought. She kisses him in the moment, hoping he isn't too far gone from her.

This is the second book in the Leighton River series, and this was emotional. Showing what teenagers go through in such an adult way. The writing was amazing, and Lauren Runow has a way to draw you into her books and captivate your attention. I loved this book just as much as the first one, if not more. I can get lost in her books. Young love, friends to lovers is tropes in coming to enjoy. The epilogue really pulled this book together, and I enjoyed it very much.

[ELC · Rating 4 out of 5]

HOW WE LOVED by Lauren Runow

This was cute story. Yes I loved Ben he was the sweetest and the best friend a person could ask for. Now to Maya I really loved their friendship I really did but you guys was any one else annoyed by how she acted. I mean I get if they were teenagers and well it reflected in the story but geez it just reminded me of how dumb we can be. I mean I was literally screaming at my kindle at at Maya I was so annoyed by her. The red flags were everywhere and yet she kept going back for more ugh being young sucks. This was such a cute and yet frustrating story for me don’t get me wrong I loved it. It was just a reminder of what it is to young and naive but I loved the story and would recommend it. I’m actually very interested in finding out who Eli’s secret girlfriend is, I mean I have an inkling but want to definitely find out for sure.

[Amanda Davanzati · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never had an author that had me in tears within the first few pages for every book until I started reading Lauren Runow! This author is simply amazing at what they do!

How We Loved is an angsty friends to lovers that is full of emotion and feelings! Ever since How We Hated, I have been so captivated by Ben and Maya, so to get more of them was everything I wanted. I love Mayas cheerful personality and Ben’s character. This book definitely takes you on a rollercoaster through their experience. I was so intrigued and loved every minute. I didn’t want to put it down. I really enjoyed the writing of this book and the emotional story that was created.

I definitely love this author and this series that it is becoming! I can’t wait to read more from this author! I definitely recommend it for all to read!

[Crystal Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lauren Runow is one of my favorite authors, she writes stories with ups and downs, love and heartbreak, hope and redemption. How We Loved is such a sweet story of friendship, companionship, devotion, confusion, protection, and love that will leave readers swooning.

[Rosa Ascenso · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second was as good R.A

This book did a good example of mental abuse. Its a must read.love to read the rest of the gang.

[Annie's Coffee Break Book Blog(Crystal) Alexander · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just what I needed!

I haven't read anything in a year ! This sweet romance was exactly what I've been needing. How We Loved was a heartwarming story about life long friendships, and a great reminder that we are all human and making mistakes is a huge part of growing up. This book is a great example that the foundation of any strong relationship is true friendship. Your person should always be your best friend! To one of my all time favorite authors, The real Lauren Runow, you've nailed it once again! ❤

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

4.5 stars

I loved Ben and Maya's story! This book is a roller coaster ride of emotions and discovering that your forever may be right where you least expect them to be. I was excited to see how Natalie and Dalton's relationship has progressed and more into Eli's story, which I can't wait to read. This was another amazing story by Lauren, and I can't wait to continue this series.

Ben and Maya have been best friends since they were little, and they were never anything more until someone came between them and their friendship. They both dated other people and they were always there for each other no matter what but when Maya decides to get serious with a guy that isn't from their town Ben starts to realize that he doesn't like Maya dating someone he doesn't know. As time goes by and their friendship is tested, they both find out how they really feel about each other, but it may be too late.

If you love friends to lovers, small town, and sports romances, then you don't want to miss out on this amazing read. If you want to connect with all of the characters in this story, start with Natalie & Dalton's book How We Hated.

[Brandi Sartin lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many emotions! It was such a good book! Ben and Maya have been best friends for their whole lives. Ben always watches out for Maya just like he promised to do. But when Maya gets a boyfriend what happens to the friendship? Will Ben be there to her when she needs him? Then we have the question of can you be best friends with the opposite sex without feeling developing?

[Kim Doe · Rating 4 out of 5]

High school friendships with the usual teen drama, love and heartbreak along the way.

Loved Ben and Maya’s story and can’t wait to see what happens in Eli’s book.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

How We Loved; Leighton Series Book 2) ( Tropes 🩷Small Town 🩷Friends to Lovers 🩷Sports Romance 🩷All the feels So it’s now 4.50 am in the morning and I literally spent the entire night and morning reading How We Loved and phew was it worth every ounce of sleep I lost . I absolutely adored Ben and Maya, from the very first page . I cannot really pur into words what it was exactly but I felt such a connection to these two , a pull like a moth to a 🔥 flame . And Before I knew it I was falling hook line and sinker in love . Ben and Mays are best friends, and they have been most of their lives . As they get older and mature , it’s so evident that there is more between them , chemistry that is undeniable. But it’s not until Maya gets a boyfriend that finally makes Ben acknowledge the feeling he has for his best friend ( but is it too late ? Angst , humor , witty banter , heartbreaking and heartfelt, obstacles, friends to lovers, drama , first loves , secrets, unexpected surprises, family, friendships, Wonderfully written, likable and relatable characters, , unforgettable, unputdownable.And quite simply a emotional rollercoaster that plays on all your emotions in ways you won’t even be expecting. You’ll experience everything from being utterly speechless, to yelling outta pure frustration. Your heart will feel like it’s beating so fast and then bam being crushed the with tears streaming down your cheeks, you’ll smile , you’ll laugh , and you’ll be glued to the edge of your seat anticipating what will happen from one second to the next . And you’ll find yourself rooting so freaking hard

[Gianna Charlesworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨️eARC Review✨️

5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶

*How We Loved is book 2 and is an interconnected standlone in the Leighton River series. While not necessary to read book 1 (How We Hated), some characters/history may make more sense if the series is read in order*

Ben and Maya have been best friends their entire lives, and people don't understand they've friend zoned each other no matter how close they look/act. Maya hates that everyone in their small town knows everyone's business, and even worse is her group of guy friends she grew up with scare off all potential boyfriends. When she meets someone from the next town over, she can't understand why Ben is trying to ruin her relationship or who to choose between. Ben vowed to always protect Maya, and he's not going to let anyone come between them.

I usually don't seek out the friends to lovers trope but after reading How We Hated, I instantly wanted the ARC for How We Loved so I could see where Ben and Maya's story was going to go. I don't cry easily, but Lauren broke my heart and put it back together again in the best way possible. Watching Maya struggle through dating/first love without her best friend and another crucial person in her life was hard, but Ben stood back until he was needed, and boy, was he needed.

I absolutely loved the last 20% of the book as well as the epilogue! I'm hoping Lauren has one more book up her sleeve for this series because I would love to know how Eli was so secretive about!

Tropes:
✓ Highschool Sports Romance
✓ YA/New Adult Romance
✓ Angst
✓ Friends to Lovers
✓ Found Family/Family Friends

[Nancy Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOW WE LOVED: A Small Town, Friends to Lovers Romance by Lauren Runow is a new release. Maya and Ben had been close since they were born. They were a pair of best of friends. When her mother passed away when they both were eleven, her dying wish was for Ben to always watch over her daughter and promise to be a protector of her as they grew up. They'd been inseparable until their senior year in high school. Their friends thought they must be more than friends, because they'd not act like normal best-friends. They would cuddle and she'd sit on his lap. If at his house and they'd fall asleep & cuddle together the entire night. He'd pick her up in his truck to take her to school. They'd for so long acted like it was perfectly normal, the way they behaved with each other. Then their relationship took a turn when Maya met a boy at a home football game who was from a different school & town. His interest in Maya was more as a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship. So not platonic! She fell for him, and his kisses. He wanted her to cut all her ties with Ben. She didn't want to think about a future without Ben, but she hadn't wanted to lose her new boyfriend Trevor. He'd made it clear that she was his girlfriend and no other guy's hands should be on her. When Maya started avoiding Ben and their friends, he was so hurt that she was trying to cut him out of her life. When she'd had a rude awakening that Trevor was not all she thought he was, and she was in a lot of trouble, she reached out to Ben. She could only hope that he would forgive her or had she ruined them forever.

[Jolanda Gelissen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very cute story, with also some tough topics, so be prepared.

We met Ben and Maya in How We Hated, where it was established that they are, and always have been, exceptionally close friends. So close, in fact, that they are often mistaken for a couple. They insist there's nothing more to their friendship, though.

This book managed to make me cry during the first chapter, with an emotional scene from their childhood. It sets the stage for Ben being extra protective over Maya, to the point where she hasn't really dated in their small town. How could she, with everyone already knowing who she is and Ben ready to defend her honor?

Early in their senior year, Maya meets a boy from another school. She's pleasantly surprised when he doesn't know much about her yet, as she feels this gives them an honest chance at dating. Things start off alright, but soon, the red flags are apparent. Maya, however, keeps brushing them off or rationalising them, to the point where I started to get a bit annoyed with her.

Meanwhile, Ben is becoming increasingly worried and frustrated, but feels like he cannot intervene without risking his friendship with Maya. And let's remember, these are high school seniors - they don't have the wisdom readers with more life experience will have.

I did like how the story evolved and Maya and Ben finally both came to their senses. It was also lovely to read about her new and developing friendship with Nathalie. But now I'm even more curious about what's up with Eli, though I do have my suspicions!

[Souljin240 · Rating 5 out of 5]

#arcreader

12/3/24

Author, you are incredibly cruel 😩😭 right at the beginning of my reading, you had me in tears. Your ability to make me feel as if I am experiencing what the characters are feeling is truly remarkable. Your writing, your storytelling, and the message you are trying to convey all resonate deeply in my heart.

It is true that sometimes, when we like and love someone, we can become blind to everything. Even though our inner voice may warn us, we often choose to ignore it and pursue our desires, only to have our eyes opened when the person we have defended hurts us.

If I were in Maya’s shoes, I would also find myself drawn to Trevor 🤣✌️😁🙈. Which woman wouldn’t fall for every word Trevor says, with his actions making us believe wholeheartedly that he truly loves us? As for Ben, despite his affection and attention towards Maya, Maya’s feelings are not entirely unfounded given Ben’s uncertainty about his own emotions.

Nevertheless, the story of Maya and Ben is truly captivating and worth reading. I found myself engrossed in it all day, eager to see when Maya would realize that Trevor was merely taking advantage of her.

Thank you, Author, for this beautiful story. Once again, I found myself in tears when reading the letter from her mother❤️

[Misty (Reds Romance Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya and Ben have always just been friends, never thought to be anything more than that, just plain and simple friends. That is until now...

How We Loved is a delightfully penned friends to more romance that will hit you straight in the heart! These two are quite innocent when it comes to their friendship, they've always maintained that they have nothing but friend-like feelings for one another, but everyone else sees something else. Something that neither of them are ready or willing to explore. They fear moving out of the friendzone might cause more harm then do good so they just ignore the little stirrings they've experienced at one point or another.

But something is shifting between these two and they are looking at one another in a different light. But are they ready to take that step, or is friendship all they'll ever have?

I thoroughly enjoyed this one, it was sweet and heartfelt romance that had me smiling throughout! I have a feeling this one is going score serious points with YA romance readers, it's pages hold a can't miss romance brimming with all of those first time love feels! Highly recommend!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh the angst! Lauren Runow knocks the mature YA angst out of the park with this series. I found myself on the edge of my seat reading Maya and her innocent sweetness ignore her gut instincts in favor of having a boyfriend and discovering what she thinks is love. This story was an emotional rollercoaster ride I didn’t want to get off of.

We first met Ben and Maya in How We Hated. We the readers, along with the cast of characters, could see Ben and Maya were more than just friends. How We Loved is their emotional journey of self discovery leading to what has always been in front of them. Maya isn’t the only one struggling with angst. Ben is struggling with his need to protect Maya, his love for her and how both things can co-exist.

It was fun to return to Leighton River and catch up with the friend group. The epilogue four years into the future was the perfect way to end this book and tease us with the next. I’m looking forward to reading Eli’s book.

Thanks to Lauren Runow and Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC opportunity.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am loving this series more and more, with each book that comes out!

Lauren Runow delivers another emotional and heart wrenching YA romance with her lastest release, How We Loved.

In this book we get the story of Ben and Maya who have been childhood best friends since they were babies. Their families have grown up close and even celebrate holidays together.

Throughout the book Maya and Ben discover how much their relationship really means to each other and how what their friends have been saying all along isn't so far fetched...

There were plenty of ups and downs that seemed to have been pulled straight from my memory banks of when I was in high school. The drama that comes with dating and everything else that goes with it.

There were plenty of times when I needed a few tissues and I loved that my emotions were being pulled from me in such a strong way.

I'm waiting on baited breath for Eli's story!!

[Dee Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Played like a movie
Apparently I’m in my “friends-to-lovers” era because I’ve read a few lately and Lauren Runow gave me Ben and Maya who I couldn’t help but love.
Ben and Maya have always been friends, in fact since they were tiny. When Maya starts dating a boy from the next town, Ben doesn’t like him and their friendship becomes strained. It takes separation and an overbearing, controlling boyfriend for the true depths of what Maya and Ben have to come to light.
Ms Runow knows how to weave friendship, love, angst, anger, regret, fear, heartbreak, doubt, trust and hope into a beautiful story that wraps itself tightly around your heart.
The images of this story played through my mind like a movie as I read - crying, smiling, yelling, gasping and loving.
I can’t wait for the next one, so I can go on another emotional roller coaster ride.

Thank you to the author and Wordsmith Publicity.

[The Romantic Rush Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALL THE FEELS! Lauren Runow is becoming my go-to for mature YA angsty stories. How We Loved gives us the emotional coming of age (and heart) story of Maya and Ben - a romance foreshadowed in How We Hated. And oh my what an emotional roller coaster their love story is. This story has so many beautiufl and heartfelt themes that both resonated in a nostalgic and a senitmental way for me. Growing up, heartache, learning about love really means...and most of all, figuring out YOURSELF.

Like so many of us, figuring out truly what you want is hard for Maya. So instead she pursues what she thinks she want/needs....and ignores what is right in front her face. And Ben just wants to protect her and love her....what is the right thing when that all feels at odds.

Like How We Hated this was really sweet and more emotional that I expected, but I loved watching these two fall and catching up with the Leighton River crew. And I adored the epilogue. Excited to see what's next for the series!

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5
Lauren Runow's latest instalment in the Leighton River series, "How We Loved," isn't just a book; it's a ticket to an emotional rollercoaster ride you won't want to get off. If you thought the first book set the bar high, get ready to be blown away because Ms Runow takes it up a notch with this one.

Picture this: it's the perfect blend of a slow-burn romance and the tumultuous journey of self-discovery that comes with being on the cusp of adulthood. Maya and Ben, our young couple, have always seen each other as nothing more than best friends. But as the story unfolds, we're taken on a journey of realisation, both for them and for ourselves.

What makes "How We Loved" stand out is its ability to capture the essence of being 18—the desire for love, the confusion of emotions, and the blissful ignorance of what's right in front of you. It's a story that resonates deeply, reminding us of our own youthful endeavours and the friendships that shape us.

And let's talk about that epilogue—four years on, offering a glimpse into the future we've all been yearning for. It's the perfect cherry on top of a deliciously satisfying read, leaving us with warm hearts and hopeful smiles.

So, if you're in the mood for a captivating tale of friendship, love, and the beauty of self-discovery, look no further than "How We Loved." Lauren Runow has crafted a masterpiece that will undoubtedly earn its spot as one of the top YA series of 2024. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on this gem.

[Jacqueline Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

How We Loved is Book 2 in the Leighton River Series. I am addicted to Lauren’s book. I finished this one in one sitting. I love this series and can’t wait for more. The prologue had me sobbing 😭 like a baby. Why Lauren Why. I had a hard time with that scene, iykyk. The impact a promise has from the one making it and the one accepting it 💔. I loved Ben and Maya from the previous book in the series. I really enjoyed these two. Ben is so sweet and the way he tries to keep his promise if very endearing. Maya I loved her at first but I did become frustrates with her choices but I understand why she did what she did. I caught myself yelling at the book and becoming so mad that it wasn't obvious to everyone else, expect Ben. The side characters in this book are amazing and all those boys need a book of their own. We get a HEA and that all I could ask for. Amazing emotional read.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maya has been best friends with Ben since they were children and had not considered the idea of anything more. That is about to change when she starts dating another man and as the circumstances unfold it will force them both to face what their feelings for each other truly are.

Ben knows that Maya is one of the most important people in his life and all he wants is to be there for her and for her to be happy. He may not like the man she is dating but he is not about to jeopardize his relationship with her because of it and he will be there for her when she needs someone the most.

The only people who weren’t aware of the love that Maya and Ben shared was them. Even if they didn’t realize it they are each other’s everything and I enjoyed seeing them realize it as well as they take us on a heartfelt and romantic journey.

[Defying Tradition Allisia Wysong · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I possibly say about this book that has stirred my emotions crazy! Lauren has an amazing talent for going right for my heart in her writing. Some of her books are shocking in their detail and make be blush. Others make you want to hug the characters tight because they feel like family.
This one has helped me heal in ways I didn’t know I still needed. I couldn’t wait to read about Maya and Ben because I knew their journey was going to be epic and I wasn’t wrong. They provoked so many emotions and it makes me want to read it again(which for me is saying something! I’m not a re-reader of books when I know the story.) Lauren you hit this out of the park! I can’t wait to read Eli’s book next.
Until then grab this book readers and curl up to enjoy, I’ll warn you there will be times you want to ring Ben and Maya’s necks but keep reading!

[Terra Drynan-Werder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited for Ben & Maya's story and it certainly didn't disappoint. It was so emotional and at times I wanted to shake them both. Ben & Maya have been friends pretty much since birth and are so wrapped up in each other's families that it made all of their decisions so much more difficult, but I loved how their families supported them , even when they disagreed. I am completely in love with this series and am so glad I was on vacation and could just devour this book in one day. They have the best group of supportive friends that I have completely fallen in love with. I sure hope Eli's story is next as I HAVE to know.....(darn you Lauren Runow lol) I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book for my honest opinion.

[Carol Seymour · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure that Lauren could top Book #1 and keep the emotions flowing but she turned it up a notch in book#2.
Ben and Maya were destined to be together or at least that is what everyone thought, especially their parents.
Ben promised to watch over Maya and he took his words to heart. When she falls for a guy from another town, Ben is not sure he is right for Maya . Ben will be keeping his eye on this one and also on his own new feelings when it comes to Maya.
Maya wants to experience life and love but she is always under Ben's watchful eye. Maybe this new guy will be able to expand her horizons.
Sometimes we take for granted what is right before our eyes. A beautiful story of young love/first love/friends to lovers.

[FunUndertheCovers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure that Lauren could top Book #1 and keep the emotions flowing but she turned it up a notch in book#2.
Ben and Maya were destined to be together or at least that is what everyone thought, especially their parents.
Ben promised to watch over Maya and he took his words to heart. When she falls for a guy from another town, Ben is not sure he is right for Maya . Ben will be keeping his eye on this one and also on his own new feelings when it comes to Maya.
Maya wants to experience life and love but she is always under Ben's watchful eye. Maybe this new guy will be able to expand her horizons.
Sometimes we take for granted what is right before our eyes. A beautiful story of young love/first love/friends to lovers. Review by C. Seymour - blogger

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lauren Runow's How We Loved is a captivating tale of friendship, love, and self-discovery that resonates deeply with readers. The story follows Maya and Ben, who transition from lifelong friends to something more, navigating the complexities of emotions and relationships. Runow skillfully weaves together elements of friendship, love, angst, and hope, creating a narrative that tugs at the heartstrings. The book offers a perfect blend of a slow-burn romance and the tumultuous journey of self-realization, capturing the essence of youthful emotions and the beauty of friendships that shape us. With an emotionally charged storyline and a poignant epilogue that offers a glimpse into the characters' future, How We Loved is a must-read for those seeking a heartfelt and engaging story.

[Gin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Generally, this was a good book. I thought how the author depicted Maya's relationship with her abusive boyfriend was well done, and that it is important issue to address.

That being said, the experienced-guy-virginal-girl trope isn't my favourite (however, I can buy it --a little-- in this book because the characters are high schools students and not, say, in their thirties). And I was a little disappointed that Maya has no career ambition. Not to say "just want[ing] to be a mom" is a bad thing, it's just that in this day in age, focusing on being "just" a mom and not having to worry about bills is a greater luxury than it was in the past. Mind you, at least her career goals didn't include momfluencer....

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.