This book didn’t hit like I thought it would, and that was unfortunate. Some of my favorite tropes are grumpy sunshine and pretend couples. However, something about it just didn’t connect. As for Hazel as the main character, I did like her, but I did think she was very patient and took a lot of shit from Rain. That started to irritate me because she seemed to let it slide so easily. Meanwhile, Rain really got on my nerves with his hot-and-cold treatment. One day, he’d ignore her, and the next, he’d be nice, kind, and interact with her. This cycle went on for over 75% of the book, and it got really irritating really quickly. Also, when they revealed the reason behind Rain's relationship trauma, it felt very bland. They had been building it up to be a big, dramatic heartbreak, but while I can see how it affected him, the scene didn’t carry much emotion. Even the quick conversation they had about it felt dismissive, especially considering it had been affecting him for six years.
As for the romantic developments, it felt like a lot was happening, but at the same time, nothing was progressing. If that makes sense. One minute, they’d have a deep conversation, and the next, he’d ignore her and refer to her as just his "contract wife." Then she would say, "I’m falling in love with him," and get hurt when he ignored her. They only truly got together in the last 7-10 chapters, and even then, it felt very rushed. He realizes he loves her, she realizes she loves him, and they get together. They deal with some drama and then get remarried.
To be honest, this book was an overall letdown because I had been really looking forward to it for months. After reading it, I’m just not happy.