ARC received in exchange of an honest review.
Falling for Meadow is a heartfelt tale that reunites readers with Meadow Macrae and Oliver Anderson in a quaint Scottish small-town, 17 years after Meadow chose not to pursue the American dream alongside Oliver.
The book is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, deftly navigating a range of sentiments. It effortlessly moves readers to laughter, tears, and moments of sheer romantic swoon. While it delves into heavy themes, such as grief following the unexpected death of Fox—Meadow's beloved brother and Ollie's estranged best friend—the narrative never becomes overwhelmingly somber. Instead, it manages to maintain a delicate balance, treating the characters' grief with the utmost respect.
What stands out most is the authenticity of the characters' motivations. Throughout the story, I found myself completely immersed, never once questioning the reasons behind their actions or reactions. Meadow emerges as a fierce and determined female lead, unwavering in her dreams and decisions. Ollie, on the other hand, is portrayed as a gentle giant, showering Meadow with a love that is tender, caring, and unwavering. His attentive listening, devoid of any dismissiveness, adds depth to their relationship and makes their bond all the more palpable.
The narrative is further enriched by chapters that delve into the characters' pasts. Rather than overshadowing the main storyline, these glimpses from the past seamlessly integrate with the present, enhancing the overall narrative without becoming its focal point.
The book is peppered with memorable quotes that resonate deeply, such as,"The past is a lesson, not a home," and "Remember that busy is a verb. Not a feeling." Lines like "He'll be our Ollie" and Ollie's poignant confession, "Doe, for seventeen years, I operated with only half my soul. I don't want to do it again now that I've come back to my other half. I love you," further underscore the emotional depth and intensity of the story.
In conclusion, Falling for Meadow is a beautifully balanced novel that skillfully combines romance, drama, and emotional depth. It is a captivating read that will leave readers reflecting on love, loss, and the power of second chances. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a poignant and heartfelt love story.
Thank you so much to the authors for the ARC