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The Willow's Saga #1
Bent Right to Your Wind
Aaron Willow and Maya Amery’s story began with a book in a park, a budding friendship between a golden-hearted boy and a jaded, independent girl. But what started as an innocent connection soon turned into something deeper—and more complicated—when a betrayal disrupted their lives. Setting them on a path of academic competition, with each pushing the other to their limits while keeping buried feelings at bay.
Years later, Aaron and Maya are married, but the love that once bound them is now strained under the weight of the past. Nearly a decade into marriage, they’re confronted by a painful reminder of that old betrayal—a wound neither of them caused, yet one that reshaped their lives and relationship forever.
As the story unfolds through dual timelines, we see Aaron and Maya’s journey from friends to rivals to lovers, and finally, to a couple fighting for their love against the scars of the past.
Can they rediscover the magic they once shared, or will the shadows of yesterday prove too strong to overcome?
A tale of love, rivalry, and resilience, where each chapter alternates between the innocence of youth and the trials of a marriage in peril.
Check This Dual Timeline Between Academic Rivals Turned Into Husband & Wife Now
Years later, Aaron and Maya are married, but the love that once bound them is now strained under the weight of the past. Nearly a decade into marriage, they’re confronted by a painful reminder of that old betrayal—a wound neither of them caused, yet one that reshaped their lives and relationship forever.
As the story unfolds through dual timelines, we see Aaron and Maya’s journey from friends to rivals to lovers, and finally, to a couple fighting for their love against the scars of the past.
Can they rediscover the magic they once shared, or will the shadows of yesterday prove too strong to overcome?
A tale of love, rivalry, and resilience, where each chapter alternates between the innocence of youth and the trials of a marriage in peril.
Check This Dual Timeline Between Academic Rivals Turned Into Husband & Wife Now
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2025
30 people are currently reading
1359 people want to read
About the author
Esther Valors
2 books47 followersEsther Valors is a twenty-something introvert who has always found books to be her sacred space.
Her favorite genres are romance, sci-fi and fantasy, but reads pretty much anything except for non-fiction.
It’s only fitting that she realized she had the magic to weave the stories running through her mind.
In her books, you’ll find that neither of her main characters is with someone else after meeting, healthy relationships, found family and a happy ending.
Her favorite genres are romance, sci-fi and fantasy, but reads pretty much anything except for non-fiction.
It’s only fitting that she realized she had the magic to weave the stories running through her mind.
In her books, you’ll find that neither of her main characters is with someone else after meeting, healthy relationships, found family and a happy ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
March 20, 2025
The writing was as expected for a debut. I liked the characters but I feel there was too much going on at once. A lot of tell and less show which caused a disconnect from the story also.
I liked that the characters went to therapy and there was a lot of care surrounding the topic of mental health.
The mmc was the highlight of this book. Aaron my Shayla 😭 he was sooo sweet and cute and adorable. This man learned to ride a whole ass motorbike just bc she hinted that she finds it hot. Plssss need to protect him at all costs!
I thought the book would be going in chronological order but while reading I realised it had past/present time jumps. I’ve always acknowledged that I’m not a big fan and unfortunately this fell victim to that.
The premise was really good and the story had direction but the execution lacked finesse.
Thank you sm to Esther for giving me the opportunity to read and review her work ♥︎
***
GUESS WHO GOT THE ARC IM LITCH SPINNING AHHHH
Childhood friends to academic rivals to lovers to MARRIAGE IN CRISIS????? Did the author pick my brain apart or what 🤚
I liked that the characters went to therapy and there was a lot of care surrounding the topic of mental health.
The mmc was the highlight of this book. Aaron my Shayla 😭 he was sooo sweet and cute and adorable. This man learned to ride a whole ass motorbike just bc she hinted that she finds it hot. Plssss need to protect him at all costs!
I thought the book would be going in chronological order but while reading I realised it had past/present time jumps. I’ve always acknowledged that I’m not a big fan and unfortunately this fell victim to that.
The premise was really good and the story had direction but the execution lacked finesse.
Thank you sm to Esther for giving me the opportunity to read and review her work ♥︎
***
GUESS WHO GOT THE ARC IM LITCH SPINNING AHHHH
Childhood friends to academic rivals to lovers to MARRIAGE IN CRISIS????? Did the author pick my brain apart or what 🤚
March 20, 2025
Very good debut book about a couple in crisis.
Their love is true love and is able to withstand even the worse difficulties of life.
Here you have a real hero, not one of those who ate the first sign of strain cheats on his wife or dumps her or wants to have his freedom because he didn’t think marriage would entail taking care of a wife that can have issues as depression, anxiety, and trauma.
You know, according to many books, men think that their wives are strong, resilient, brave creatures that never need help and are always able to smile and be cheerful no matter what it happens.
Oh, and let’s not forget the women are supposed to be always horny, ready for hot sex and experimenting.
And if this doesn’t happen well the husbands are entitled to find their pleasure and serenity elsewhere. Because it’s the woman’s fault, always, so they’d better apologize.
If you’re looking for this kind of trope and this kind of asshole ahem hero, well, you won’t find it here.
We have a couple that meet when they’re children, become bff even if she’s from the wrong side of the town and he’s not, even among prejudice and high school dramas. Even among trauma. They fall in love and get married.
They have issues, past and present, I won’t spoil because the book is worth reading, so I’ll let you find out what happens between them.
I just want to point out that the hero is a hero, and he really saves the heroine from difficult and sometimes traumatic situations. When they are married and things get difficult he doesn’t want to run away, he’s there, for her, and he’s ready to help her and to be near her when she needs him.
The heroine is interesting and traumatized. She had a very hard past, she is also a very proud woman that sometimes prefers to hide behind silence instead of talking and communicating her issues, even with her husband.
And he’s a darling. Even if he’s from a very different background he loves her and he’s there for her.
There is also a very good psychological insight with a lot of therapy, that is really well done.
Therapy is needed here, I appreciate that, given the gravity of their issues, the author doesn’t try to solve everything easily but with a professional help.
Another thing I appreciated is that the book is safe. No ow and no om. Both are celibate and faithful.
I liked it, the angst is there, not due to the nastiness of the hero though, which I appreciated because it shows that it’s possible to have an angsty situation without an abusive or cheating hero.
Their love is true love and is able to withstand even the worse difficulties of life.
Here you have a real hero, not one of those who ate the first sign of strain cheats on his wife or dumps her or wants to have his freedom because he didn’t think marriage would entail taking care of a wife that can have issues as depression, anxiety, and trauma.
You know, according to many books, men think that their wives are strong, resilient, brave creatures that never need help and are always able to smile and be cheerful no matter what it happens.
Oh, and let’s not forget the women are supposed to be always horny, ready for hot sex and experimenting.
And if this doesn’t happen well the husbands are entitled to find their pleasure and serenity elsewhere. Because it’s the woman’s fault, always, so they’d better apologize.
If you’re looking for this kind of trope and this kind of asshole ahem hero, well, you won’t find it here.
We have a couple that meet when they’re children, become bff even if she’s from the wrong side of the town and he’s not, even among prejudice and high school dramas. Even among trauma. They fall in love and get married.
They have issues, past and present, I won’t spoil because the book is worth reading, so I’ll let you find out what happens between them.
I just want to point out that the hero is a hero, and he really saves the heroine from difficult and sometimes traumatic situations. When they are married and things get difficult he doesn’t want to run away, he’s there, for her, and he’s ready to help her and to be near her when she needs him.
The heroine is interesting and traumatized. She had a very hard past, she is also a very proud woman that sometimes prefers to hide behind silence instead of talking and communicating her issues, even with her husband.
And he’s a darling. Even if he’s from a very different background he loves her and he’s there for her.
There is also a very good psychological insight with a lot of therapy, that is really well done.
Therapy is needed here, I appreciate that, given the gravity of their issues, the author doesn’t try to solve everything easily but with a professional help.
Another thing I appreciated is that the book is safe. No ow and no om. Both are celibate and faithful.
I liked it, the angst is there, not due to the nastiness of the hero though, which I appreciated because it shows that it’s possible to have an angsty situation without an abusive or cheating hero.
Want to read
November 16, 2024🌿 Bent Right To Your Wind 🌿 (Coming March 23rd) Out For Preorder
💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚
✨Dual POV (Aaron & Maya)
✨Dual timeline (In the past timeline, we follow this couple since they met when they were kids until they were in their final year of high school. In the present timeline, we see their marriage falling and what’s causing their problems is connected to their past)
✨Friends to academic rivals to lovers to marriage in peril
More tropes you can find in this book:
💚Both virgins + only with each other!
🚀Golden retriever + knight in shiny armor + golden boy H
💕Black cat + independent + jaded girl h
🤍Rich H x Poor h
🪐Found family that includes his 6 siblings
🎁Competing against each other as flirting + Both trying to be the best in their academic fight
🗡️”Who did this to you?”
💕My love
💍My wife
📌She’s a famous lawyer x He’s a counselor & therapist in his own ONG
Aaron Willow- People pleaser tendencies.
She hates everyone but him. (she pretends to hate him too ;).
Maya Amery
Aaron Willow
💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚
✨Dual POV (Aaron & Maya)
✨Dual timeline (In the past timeline, we follow this couple since they met when they were kids until they were in their final year of high school. In the present timeline, we see their marriage falling and what’s causing their problems is connected to their past)
✨Friends to academic rivals to lovers to marriage in peril
More tropes you can find in this book:
💚Both virgins + only with each other!
🚀Golden retriever + knight in shiny armor + golden boy H
💕Black cat + independent + jaded girl h
🤍Rich H x Poor h
🪐Found family that includes his 6 siblings
🎁Competing against each other as flirting + Both trying to be the best in their academic fight
🗡️”Who did this to you?”
💕My love
💍My wife
📌She’s a famous lawyer x He’s a counselor & therapist in his own ONG
Aaron Willow- People pleaser tendencies.
She hates everyone but him. (she pretends to hate him too ;).
Maya Amery
Aaron Willow
April 1, 2025
🌿 Bent Right To Your Wind 🌿 Out Now! On KU Too!
💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚
This book started here, I had this idea on my mind for months and after meeting wonderful people that turned into good friends with similar tastes. I decided to sit down and try to write the book that has been on mind for quite some time. They gave me the push to keep writing and have helped me in every step of the way.
Thank you so much! All the support, love and encouragment has made possible that my book is on this app. Full circle moment :)
I'm the author of this debut, if you're interested in this book here we have a little summary of the important info:
✨Dual POV (Aaron & Maya)
✨Dual timeline (In the past timeline, we follow this couple since they met when they were kids until they were in their final year of high school. In the present timeline, we see their marriage falling and what’s causing their problems is connected to their past)
✨Friends to academic rivals to lovers to marriage in peril
More tropes you can find in this book:
💚Both virgins + only with each other
🚀Golden retriever + knight in shiny armor + golden boy H
💕Black cat + independent + jaded girl h
🤍Rich H x Poor h
🪐Found family that includes his 6 siblings
🎁Competing against each other as flirting + Both trying to be the best in their academic fight
🗡️”Who did this to you?”
💕My love
💍My wife
📌She’s a famous lawyer x He’s a counselor & therapist in his own ONG
All the character art is from the past timeline. Present timeline character art coming very soon :)
💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚🤍💚
This book started here, I had this idea on my mind for months and after meeting wonderful people that turned into good friends with similar tastes. I decided to sit down and try to write the book that has been on mind for quite some time. They gave me the push to keep writing and have helped me in every step of the way.
Thank you so much! All the support, love and encouragment has made possible that my book is on this app. Full circle moment :)
I'm the author of this debut, if you're interested in this book here we have a little summary of the important info:
✨Dual POV (Aaron & Maya)
✨Dual timeline (In the past timeline, we follow this couple since they met when they were kids until they were in their final year of high school. In the present timeline, we see their marriage falling and what’s causing their problems is connected to their past)
✨Friends to academic rivals to lovers to marriage in peril
More tropes you can find in this book:
💚Both virgins + only with each other
🚀Golden retriever + knight in shiny armor + golden boy H
💕Black cat + independent + jaded girl h
🤍Rich H x Poor h
🪐Found family that includes his 6 siblings
🎁Competing against each other as flirting + Both trying to be the best in their academic fight
🗡️”Who did this to you?”
💕My love
💍My wife
📌She’s a famous lawyer x He’s a counselor & therapist in his own ONG
All the character art is from the past timeline. Present timeline character art coming very soon :)
March 30, 2025
They've known each other for years, but a betrayal marked a turning point in their lives, turning them into academic rivals. Their story evolves from a deep friendship to an intense rivalry, ultimately transforming into a marriage that faces its own challenges.
The book follows Aaron and Maya, who share years of history together. What begins as a beautiful friendship takes a dramatic turn when a significant betrayal transforms them into fierce academic rivals. The author brilliantly portrays how their relationship evolves through these distinct phases - from the warmth of genuine friendship to the bitterness of competition, and finally to a marriage that carries the weight of their complicated past.
One of the strongest elements is the dual timeline structure that weaves between their past and present. We see the innocent beginnings of their connection alongside their current struggles, which helps us understand how yesterday's wounds shape today's challenges. The non-chronological storytelling keeps you engaged as you piece together what really happened between them.
Thank you to Esther for the ARC
The book follows Aaron and Maya, who share years of history together. What begins as a beautiful friendship takes a dramatic turn when a significant betrayal transforms them into fierce academic rivals. The author brilliantly portrays how their relationship evolves through these distinct phases - from the warmth of genuine friendship to the bitterness of competition, and finally to a marriage that carries the weight of their complicated past.
One of the strongest elements is the dual timeline structure that weaves between their past and present. We see the innocent beginnings of their connection alongside their current struggles, which helps us understand how yesterday's wounds shape today's challenges. The non-chronological storytelling keeps you engaged as you piece together what really happened between them.
Thank you to Esther for the ARC
March 24, 2025
4 stars
Safety:
-SAFE
- each other's first and only everything, including first kiss
- no other people drama.
Yes, for those who wonder if it is possible to right a ROMANCE angsty book without cheating or other people causing problem
Has been a while since I read a book without having any spoilers beforehand and without skipping some parts. I missed reading a book like this, savouring each chapter, anxious to know what is happening.
This story is beautiful, my favorite trope is childhood friends to lovers, when the couple are the one and only for each other is peak romance for me.
Aaron is a true romance hero, he loves fiercely, he never contemplates giving up, he doesn't stray, he is loyal.
Maya is also loyal, but she is more complicated. She had a way harder life and her childhood was not great, the people who were supposed to love were the ones hurting and betraying her. Yet, the author chose a really realistic way of portraying her trauma response. She basically works herself to exhaustion in order to now think and fear losing the one person she loves most (her husband).
I personally love flashbacks, but I usually don't like a timeline mixed between past and present, only one there are small flashes of the past, I prefer when everything is the past and then the present. However I have to admit when something works better intertwined and this is one of those cases.
I loved every single chapter from their past and in my opinion the present was not as good as the past in the beginning. Once they started therapy and after knowing about the death of her parents the present started to get better, but I think it could have shown more about their relationship, maybe having her break down earlier so we could have had more scenes of them talking, more details about her relationship with her mother and what he thought of that. I don't know exactly, but a little more of them bonding maybe? The present lacked something for me.
I loved the past, something I really enjoyed was watching her father downfall, I think the author nailed this part, she was able to express how his behavior was gradually becoming more toxic in a very genuine way in three flashback chapters in a way that was very realistic. At the beginning we may think he was just a protective father teaching his kid to be strong, but there is a subtle tone of aggressive there and at the end it was very clear how since the beginning something was wrong but how easy could have been to now see it.
They are soulmates, their first interactions is already prove of it. Their rivalry is full of competitiveness, but it is entertainment, not toxic.
I think a little more about her being a part of his househood again in between those eight years time jump would be appreciated, we saw her getting close to his siblings and we know they never accused her, actually they were very protective of her, but for her, a proud child and a proud teen to be at his house around his parents again after what her father said, I would have liked to see a conversation maybe with his parents.
There are grammar mistakes, but English is not my first language and I am not the best at pointing them.
I think this is a beautiful story with a very engaging backstory for the couple. Maya is fierce without being mean, something authors try to make a badass woman and miss the mark making a mean one instead. I was relieved to see how compassionate she was, helping his siblings and being genuinely a good person. She suffers being neglected at home, yet she doesn't mistreat people because of it. At the same time she is no doormat, she doesnt let people walk all over her.
Aaron is a beautiful soul, he likes to see his girl thriving, one he realized she is being bullied he didn't hesitated to put their bullies at their places.
One thing I particularly loved is seeing Maya supporting him when his grampa was sick, I felt in love with her a little seeing her efforts into making sure Aaron was okay. This was a turning point for him and I think was very nice seeing a girl doing a beautiful gesture in romance land.
The sex was so realistic here too, finally a book portraiting teens in a realistic way. Teens are not master at sex and here they are fumbling teenages trying to discover intimacy together and this is a little awkward, again the author nailed this aspect of the story.
I truly loved it, this is very good and knowing this is a debut novel, I am very impressed. Can't wait to read more about the siblings. I already miss Aaron and Maya, like every good book, the epilogue wasn't enough
Safety:
-SAFE
- each other's first and only everything, including first kiss
- no other people drama.
Yes, for those who wonder if it is possible to right a ROMANCE angsty book without cheating or other people causing problem
Has been a while since I read a book without having any spoilers beforehand and without skipping some parts. I missed reading a book like this, savouring each chapter, anxious to know what is happening.
This story is beautiful, my favorite trope is childhood friends to lovers, when the couple are the one and only for each other is peak romance for me.
Aaron is a true romance hero, he loves fiercely, he never contemplates giving up, he doesn't stray, he is loyal.
Maya is also loyal, but she is more complicated. She had a way harder life and her childhood was not great, the people who were supposed to love were the ones hurting and betraying her. Yet, the author chose a really realistic way of portraying her trauma response. She basically works herself to exhaustion in order to now think and fear losing the one person she loves most (her husband).
I personally love flashbacks, but I usually don't like a timeline mixed between past and present, only one there are small flashes of the past, I prefer when everything is the past and then the present. However I have to admit when something works better intertwined and this is one of those cases.
I loved every single chapter from their past and in my opinion the present was not as good as the past in the beginning. Once they started therapy and after knowing about the death of her parents the present started to get better, but I think it could have shown more about their relationship, maybe having her break down earlier so we could have had more scenes of them talking, more details about her relationship with her mother and what he thought of that. I don't know exactly, but a little more of them bonding maybe? The present lacked something for me.
I loved the past, something I really enjoyed was watching her father downfall, I think the author nailed this part, she was able to express how his behavior was gradually becoming more toxic in a very genuine way in three flashback chapters in a way that was very realistic. At the beginning we may think he was just a protective father teaching his kid to be strong, but there is a subtle tone of aggressive there and at the end it was very clear how since the beginning something was wrong but how easy could have been to now see it.
They are soulmates, their first interactions is already prove of it. Their rivalry is full of competitiveness, but it is entertainment, not toxic.
I think a little more about her being a part of his househood again in between those eight years time jump would be appreciated, we saw her getting close to his siblings and we know they never accused her, actually they were very protective of her, but for her, a proud child and a proud teen to be at his house around his parents again after what her father said, I would have liked to see a conversation maybe with his parents.
There are grammar mistakes, but English is not my first language and I am not the best at pointing them.
I think this is a beautiful story with a very engaging backstory for the couple. Maya is fierce without being mean, something authors try to make a badass woman and miss the mark making a mean one instead. I was relieved to see how compassionate she was, helping his siblings and being genuinely a good person. She suffers being neglected at home, yet she doesn't mistreat people because of it. At the same time she is no doormat, she doesnt let people walk all over her.
Aaron is a beautiful soul, he likes to see his girl thriving, one he realized she is being bullied he didn't hesitated to put their bullies at their places.
One thing I particularly loved is seeing Maya supporting him when his grampa was sick, I felt in love with her a little seeing her efforts into making sure Aaron was okay. This was a turning point for him and I think was very nice seeing a girl doing a beautiful gesture in romance land.
The sex was so realistic here too, finally a book portraiting teens in a realistic way. Teens are not master at sex and here they are fumbling teenages trying to discover intimacy together and this is a little awkward, again the author nailed this aspect of the story.
I truly loved it, this is very good and knowing this is a debut novel, I am very impressed. Can't wait to read more about the siblings. I already miss Aaron and Maya, like every good book, the epilogue wasn't enough
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2025
Thank you to Tales and Teacups for the opportunity to read this ARC 💕
I was enjoying the story for the most part, especially since I am a sucker for second chance romances. But I only made it through a little more than half the book because it definitely needed a lot more editing, and the errors just become a major distraction as more and more popped up :/
I was enjoying the story for the most part, especially since I am a sucker for second chance romances. But I only made it through a little more than half the book because it definitely needed a lot more editing, and the errors just become a major distraction as more and more popped up :/
April 3, 2025
ES UN GRAN LIBRO DEBUT Y TODOS TIENEN QUE LEERLOOOO✨️⚘️⚘️⚘️
Si amas los chilhood friends to lovers + RIVALS TO LOVERS, este libro es para ti.
BENT RIGHT TO YOUR WIND, ha sido una lectura que estaba esperando desde hace mucho.
Este libro estuvo en mi mente desde que la escritora había soltado la sinopsis y no podía esperar para leerlo. NO FUE UNA DECEPCIÓN Y ESO ES LO MEJOR.
Es un libro lleno de HILO INVISIBLE y amor, mucho amor.
Aaron y Maya, son personajes lindos, adorables, y muy sanos en muchos sentidos.
En una era donde las relaciones tóxicas venden, este libros nos presenta una relación tan soft y con un protagonista masculino tan sunshine que hace todo más lindo.
Nuestros protagonistas se conocen desde niños y eso me encanta.
No es de esos libros donde son mejores amigos y de enamoran. NO.
Ellos se vuelven rivales, pero a la vez siempre tuvieron una conexión.
Es lindo y todo se siente orgánico.
La historia va en PASADO/PRESENTE con ellos casados en el tiempo actual y tengo que decir que fue tierno.
El pasado fue mi parte favorita, pero porque podía conocerlos más. A veces pienso que pudo funcionar todo en forma cronológica, pero no me quejo del todo.
Es un librito bonito, tierno y que te deja una bonita sensación❤️🩹
No es perfecto, pero me tuvo fangirl 100% y eso es lo que más amo en los libros de romance.
La escritora es lo mejor del mundo y merece todo el hype que pueda tener su historia.
Por último, es el primero de una saga de hermanos WILLOW y ya estoy ansiosa por el libro de NIKOOOOOOO.
Sé que será mi favorito.
Lo recomiendo✨️
Si amas los chilhood friends to lovers + RIVALS TO LOVERS, este libro es para ti.
BENT RIGHT TO YOUR WIND, ha sido una lectura que estaba esperando desde hace mucho.
Este libro estuvo en mi mente desde que la escritora había soltado la sinopsis y no podía esperar para leerlo. NO FUE UNA DECEPCIÓN Y ESO ES LO MEJOR.
Es un libro lleno de HILO INVISIBLE y amor, mucho amor.
Aaron y Maya, son personajes lindos, adorables, y muy sanos en muchos sentidos.
En una era donde las relaciones tóxicas venden, este libros nos presenta una relación tan soft y con un protagonista masculino tan sunshine que hace todo más lindo.
Nuestros protagonistas se conocen desde niños y eso me encanta.
No es de esos libros donde son mejores amigos y de enamoran. NO.
Ellos se vuelven rivales, pero a la vez siempre tuvieron una conexión.
Es lindo y todo se siente orgánico.
La historia va en PASADO/PRESENTE con ellos casados en el tiempo actual y tengo que decir que fue tierno.
El pasado fue mi parte favorita, pero porque podía conocerlos más. A veces pienso que pudo funcionar todo en forma cronológica, pero no me quejo del todo.
Es un librito bonito, tierno y que te deja una bonita sensación❤️🩹
No es perfecto, pero me tuvo fangirl 100% y eso es lo que más amo en los libros de romance.
La escritora es lo mejor del mundo y merece todo el hype que pueda tener su historia.
Por último, es el primero de una saga de hermanos WILLOW y ya estoy ansiosa por el libro de NIKOOOOOOO.
Sé que será mi favorito.
Lo recomiendo✨️
November 30, 2025
This book got me invested and interested from the beginning to the end! — "this is me trying" and "willow" by Taylor Swift are the perfect songs for this book!
Esther Valors did an amazing work writing about characters with dual pov, PTSD, past & present chapters, marriage in crisis & first love. And for a debut novel wow. It’s remarkable! Bent Right to Your Wind follows Aaron and Maya through dual pov. We see them evolve through different moments of their life.
In the past chapters, we get to know more about their relationship, when they first met in the park when they were kids to becoming rivals at school and finally becoming lovers and the end of high school. We also get to see all the things they had to go through that caused their future crisis.
And in the present chapters we see their mariage unfortunately falling apart because of traumas attached to the past. We see how they try to get over it, how hard they’re trying to work through this. How they deeply they feel about it. And how deeply they love each other.
I loved how real their emotions, love & trauma felt. So well written. I loved their honesty & how realistic their story is. How marriage isn’t all pink, it can be tough too but that with sincere, strong and honest love you manage to be patient, hopeful and to work through this.
Well. I loved this book. Aaron is the perfect golden retriever I wanted to give him my HEART and to hug him. & Maya is the perfect black cat, my powerful, strong and independent queen!!! Well deserved 5 stars! I highly recommend it! It’s not just a love story, it’s so much more. 🤍 but the love is well present and so beautiful.
Esther Valors did an amazing work writing about characters with dual pov, PTSD, past & present chapters, marriage in crisis & first love. And for a debut novel wow. It’s remarkable! Bent Right to Your Wind follows Aaron and Maya through dual pov. We see them evolve through different moments of their life.
In the past chapters, we get to know more about their relationship, when they first met in the park when they were kids to becoming rivals at school and finally becoming lovers and the end of high school. We also get to see all the things they had to go through that caused their future crisis.
And in the present chapters we see their mariage unfortunately falling apart because of traumas attached to the past. We see how they try to get over it, how hard they’re trying to work through this. How they deeply they feel about it. And how deeply they love each other.
I loved how real their emotions, love & trauma felt. So well written. I loved their honesty & how realistic their story is. How marriage isn’t all pink, it can be tough too but that with sincere, strong and honest love you manage to be patient, hopeful and to work through this.
Well. I loved this book. Aaron is the perfect golden retriever I wanted to give him my HEART and to hug him. & Maya is the perfect black cat, my powerful, strong and independent queen!!! Well deserved 5 stars! I highly recommend it! It’s not just a love story, it’s so much more. 🤍 but the love is well present and so beautiful.
March 22, 2025
I received an ARC for this story and am providing my honest feedback.
I can honestly say that I felt EVERYTHING throughout this book. Since the prologue, I was in shambles. I was intrigued at what might have happened and what was causing the strife in Maya's marriage. Then I was transported through dual timelines, where I got to experience the friendship begin to form between Maya and Aaron. Both characters grew up completely different, Aaron comes from money and Maya lives in a trailer park. You see them build a friendship that is then torn apart due to misunderstandings. They, then, become academic rivals and you can see this progress throughout their high school year. Even through their time as rivals, you could see their mutual respect for each other.
Maya is treated as part of the family by Aaron's family and siblings, even when they were 'rivals'. It was wonderful to see since Maya's parents were a disaster. Their rivalry then turns into a relationship which was beautiful.
In the present timeline, Maya is a successful lawyer and Aaron works as a therapist for his own NPO. They are struggling due to the 'mystery' mentioned in the prologue. Let me take a moment to highlight that the MMC, Aaron, is incredible. The fact that he was so supportive, understanding, and patient with his wife is just admirable. He was her lifeline when she needed it the most. He did not struggle to say "I'm sorry" and he wanted to focus on her and only her. I also liked that even though Maya was pulling away from Aaron, she didn't stop loving him. Their love is one that I will be thinking about for years to come.
Overall, this was such an emotional read that covered very serious topics. The emphasis on getting help for any mental health issue is praise-worthy. The characters were all enjoyable and great additions. I finished this book in less than 24 hours because I just couldn't put it down. I felt everything these characters were feeling and I was so immersed in their story.
Thank you Esther for writing such a heartfelt story.
I can honestly say that I felt EVERYTHING throughout this book. Since the prologue, I was in shambles. I was intrigued at what might have happened and what was causing the strife in Maya's marriage. Then I was transported through dual timelines, where I got to experience the friendship begin to form between Maya and Aaron. Both characters grew up completely different, Aaron comes from money and Maya lives in a trailer park. You see them build a friendship that is then torn apart due to misunderstandings. They, then, become academic rivals and you can see this progress throughout their high school year. Even through their time as rivals, you could see their mutual respect for each other.
Maya is treated as part of the family by Aaron's family and siblings, even when they were 'rivals'. It was wonderful to see since Maya's parents were a disaster. Their rivalry then turns into a relationship which was beautiful.
In the present timeline, Maya is a successful lawyer and Aaron works as a therapist for his own NPO. They are struggling due to the 'mystery' mentioned in the prologue. Let me take a moment to highlight that the MMC, Aaron, is incredible. The fact that he was so supportive, understanding, and patient with his wife is just admirable. He was her lifeline when she needed it the most. He did not struggle to say "I'm sorry" and he wanted to focus on her and only her. I also liked that even though Maya was pulling away from Aaron, she didn't stop loving him. Their love is one that I will be thinking about for years to come.
Overall, this was such an emotional read that covered very serious topics. The emphasis on getting help for any mental health issue is praise-worthy. The characters were all enjoyable and great additions. I finished this book in less than 24 hours because I just couldn't put it down. I felt everything these characters were feeling and I was so immersed in their story.
Thank you Esther for writing such a heartfelt story.
March 25, 2025
“You’re going to make me blush, my love.”
Probably the fastest I finished reading a book. A couple hours later of reading… I just fell in love with Esther’s writing.
Wow. I cannot stop thinking about Aaron and Maya.
The mental health representation was just amazing. I could not help but relate to many words in the book.
Oh to have someone so in love with me like they are with each other!
Probably the fastest I finished reading a book. A couple hours later of reading… I just fell in love with Esther’s writing.
Wow. I cannot stop thinking about Aaron and Maya.
The mental health representation was just amazing. I could not help but relate to many words in the book.
Oh to have someone so in love with me like they are with each other!
March 16, 2025
What can I say this book will leave a mark on your heart🥰🥹if you struggle with anxiety or mental health you can relate to maya and her struggles, seeing her in pain mentally is so heartbreaking and seeing the story unfold as you learn the story through past and present time. But her lifeline her love her nemesis Aaron never left her side 🥹he’s so gentle and loving with her.
Along with that it’s got one of my favourite tropes found family 🥰the willows all of them are the best - “my found family” they stick through thick and thin for maya being her true family.
“You’re the cutest” “cute?” She asked with disgust. “Cutest”
Seeing the past and them teasing and bantering with each other had me squealing 🥰that man was talking dirty but shy and I love that.
Along with that it’s got one of my favourite tropes found family 🥰the willows all of them are the best - “my found family” they stick through thick and thin for maya being her true family.
“You’re the cutest” “cute?” She asked with disgust. “Cutest”
Seeing the past and them teasing and bantering with each other had me squealing 🥰that man was talking dirty but shy and I love that.
December 15, 2024
This book is going to be amazing I can assure you that. I have read the prologue of the story already and I loved it 🫶🫰. When the prologue can make you attached to the story and make you feel like you just keep reading the book and the book should not get finished this feeling is really great 😍. I can't wait to read the whole book and I will soon share the whole review of this book. Best of luck Esther for the book.🤍
March 25, 2025
A beautiful heart wrenching story of a girl name Maya and her journey through life. Growing up in a trailer park and having big dreams was never going to be easy and with all that was thrown her way and in-spite of everything she made it in the end.
Throughout her years, the highs, the lows and absolute rock bottoms she couldn't have done it without the one who calmed her soul, Aaron. A boy she met on a whim one day in the park and who grew to be the other half of her heart.
I'm not ashamed to say I cried at her heartache and grief as I poured myself into this book, a topic that hits home. (A trigger warning of physical and emotional abuse, nothing too graphic but mentioned in parts).
It's so beautifully written I felt I was right there at every pivotal life change and emotional upheaval.
The bond between Maya and Aaron really made the book, their absolute dedication to one another, so in tuned and in love beyond anything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2025
Read as an ARC.
It’s a great debut book. I couldn’t stop reading it. I thought it was adorable. Dual POV and Dual timelines. It can get confusing at times. However, I enjoyed the book.
Academic rivals to friends to lovers to marriage in crisis.
Aaron is the “golden boy”, he comes from a well-off loving family, he’s loved by everyone in school.
Maya is not wealthy, her family life is not the best, and she’s an outsider.
They’re both incredibly smart and they compete against each other.
On the present side, Aaron and Maya are married, they’re obviously still in love but they are having issues.
The book is adorable and cute. I do feel like there some areas where it could have more depth. In relation to what’s going on with Maya.
I didn’t think it was a cliche romance and overall, I adored the love story.
It’s a great debut book. I couldn’t stop reading it. I thought it was adorable. Dual POV and Dual timelines. It can get confusing at times. However, I enjoyed the book.
Academic rivals to friends to lovers to marriage in crisis.
Aaron is the “golden boy”, he comes from a well-off loving family, he’s loved by everyone in school.
Maya is not wealthy, her family life is not the best, and she’s an outsider.
They’re both incredibly smart and they compete against each other.
On the present side, Aaron and Maya are married, they’re obviously still in love but they are having issues.
The book is adorable and cute. I do feel like there some areas where it could have more depth. In relation to what’s going on with Maya.
I didn’t think it was a cliche romance and overall, I adored the love story.
dnf
April 20, 2025[arc review]
ended up dnf-ing @ 24% :/ i struggled with the writing style and i just couldn’t bring myself to open the book again
ended up dnf-ing @ 24% :/ i struggled with the writing style and i just couldn’t bring myself to open the book again
Read
March 25, 2025DNF - writing style didn’t work for me. Also, the back and forth between present & past were not the best.
Want to read
March 17, 2025When your friend writes a book that has everything you love-
Want to read
March 25, 2025I can't wait to read this book—academic rivals to lovers and a marriage in crisis? That’s a whole lot of drama packed into one story. 😭 But honestly, I’m here for it. Add in some ' my wife'moments, and it’s already a win.
Plus, it’s written by fellow Goodreads member Esther, so you know the romance is going to be BOMBASTIC. Love when readers turn into authors—this one’s about to hit different!! 🥹
Plus, it’s written by fellow Goodreads member Esther, so you know the romance is going to be BOMBASTIC. Love when readers turn into authors—this one’s about to hit different!! 🥹
March 23, 2025
Esther! Esther! Esther! what an adorable debut!
Obsessed. I'm just 🤏🏻 this away to lose my mind because there's no way I'll stop talking about these two lovely characters, Aaron and Maya. I usually don't write long para but this book made me do it.
first of all I'm thankful to one of the best author I've met, for sending me ARC of BRTYW.
♡
I convinced myself that, this book is gonna be my top read of the year and i don't have anything to say except Aaron and Maya won my heart ❤️
Their growth, friendship, love for each other has a profound meaning. A kind of love which is impossible to express. Truly a five star read without second thought.
This book explores, the budding friendship between Aaron and Maya later on who we see as academic rivals, competing with each other with a magic mixture of banter and flirting. The best part? My heart couldn't take it anymore, I was blushing & giggling at the same time. I'm amazed how this book has been written with dual pov and timeline, it makes everything perfect how we see them being in high school and getting married while they struggle with their relationship after marriage. As we explore their life, Willow siblings are gonna take your heart away. My heart is with Cassie and Niko. (I'm already so excited to read THEIR books)
Maya, this girl owns my heart. She's such a pure and beautiful soul. The black cat, who knows when to fight and when to make her academic rival go crazy. She's independent, lovable and caring towards her loved ones. She's been dealing with so many emotions, nightmares yet her character felt realistic and strong. I love how author represented her and her family. My heart broke when i read about her father, that was heartbreaking yet she stood up for herself. She's well written. A soul who needs more appreciation and love, of course Aaron is always there for his girl but I can't stop loving her.
Aaron, such a book BF coded name. Isn't it? This man knows when to come up with the right words. Smart mouth with literally the most ethereal blue shining eyes. The way he was drooling over her since childhood, and never made her feel lonely. He deserves so much love and my new favourite while I'm day dreaming about him. If you see me giggling, yes he and of course Esther, they are the reason. He always stood up for 'his girl' no matter what, he never failed to prove his existence was dedicated to Maya. He is the golden boy of his town but when it comes to his girl, he becomes "Who did this to you, my love?" AHHHH god.
(bonus: they both love reading, that also became a reason for their misunderstanding. I couldn't stop my tears.)
Willow siblings, oh my love! they were so supportive. my heart is with Cassie and Niko.
Their love? I'm speechless. I laughed, I cried and I don't know what to say, their story was worth every chapter. This story is beautifully woven with love and magical connection between the MMC and FMC🥹🫶🏻. I'm so happy that i got to read about their journey, their struggles and at last they had each other. my heart is filled with so many emotions!
Obsessed. I'm just 🤏🏻 this away to lose my mind because there's no way I'll stop talking about these two lovely characters, Aaron and Maya. I usually don't write long para but this book made me do it.
first of all I'm thankful to one of the best author I've met, for sending me ARC of BRTYW.
♡
I convinced myself that, this book is gonna be my top read of the year and i don't have anything to say except Aaron and Maya won my heart ❤️
Their growth, friendship, love for each other has a profound meaning. A kind of love which is impossible to express. Truly a five star read without second thought.
This book explores, the budding friendship between Aaron and Maya later on who we see as academic rivals, competing with each other with a magic mixture of banter and flirting. The best part? My heart couldn't take it anymore, I was blushing & giggling at the same time. I'm amazed how this book has been written with dual pov and timeline, it makes everything perfect how we see them being in high school and getting married while they struggle with their relationship after marriage. As we explore their life, Willow siblings are gonna take your heart away. My heart is with Cassie and Niko. (I'm already so excited to read THEIR books)
Maya, this girl owns my heart. She's such a pure and beautiful soul. The black cat, who knows when to fight and when to make her academic rival go crazy. She's independent, lovable and caring towards her loved ones. She's been dealing with so many emotions, nightmares yet her character felt realistic and strong. I love how author represented her and her family. My heart broke when i read about her father, that was heartbreaking yet she stood up for herself. She's well written. A soul who needs more appreciation and love, of course Aaron is always there for his girl but I can't stop loving her.
Aaron, such a book BF coded name. Isn't it? This man knows when to come up with the right words. Smart mouth with literally the most ethereal blue shining eyes. The way he was drooling over her since childhood, and never made her feel lonely. He deserves so much love and my new favourite while I'm day dreaming about him. If you see me giggling, yes he and of course Esther, they are the reason. He always stood up for 'his girl' no matter what, he never failed to prove his existence was dedicated to Maya. He is the golden boy of his town but when it comes to his girl, he becomes "Who did this to you, my love?" AHHHH god.
(bonus: they both love reading, that also became a reason for their misunderstanding. I couldn't stop my tears.)
Willow siblings, oh my love! they were so supportive. my heart is with Cassie and Niko.
Their love? I'm speechless. I laughed, I cried and I don't know what to say, their story was worth every chapter. This story is beautifully woven with love and magical connection between the MMC and FMC🥹🫶🏻. I'm so happy that i got to read about their journey, their struggles and at last they had each other. my heart is filled with so many emotions!
December 23, 2024
The excitement is reallllll, can't wait 🫶🫶
March 27, 2025
So this is a very complex book. It has a dual timeline with two POVs. So in one timeline, you can see their story when they were kids in the past , but on the other hand, in the present timeline, you can see their adult life and how it is treating them. The present is really depressing; not good things are going on with them. Aaron has to save their marriage. I think I prefer the past timeline because there they are just kids. There’s also really sensitive stuff happening in the past, but I preferred that more because it’s not as complicated at the present time, so let’s talk about the two characters.
We have Aaron, who is a golden retriever, and all he wants to do is make Maya happy. He is just the ultimate husband material you ever wanted; on the other hand, there is my Maya, who gives a kind of a black cat energy. She is from the trailer park, while Aaron is from the rich side of the town. So the relationship is really complex. Also, they start as friends, then they turn into rivals, and then they turn into lovers. I think the whole story is exceptional; I loved it, but at the end sometimes I didn’t understand what was happening.
So overall I will give this book 4.75 stars. Love the story, love the characters; can’t wait for the next one.
We have Aaron, who is a golden retriever, and all he wants to do is make Maya happy. He is just the ultimate husband material you ever wanted; on the other hand, there is my Maya, who gives a kind of a black cat energy. She is from the trailer park, while Aaron is from the rich side of the town. So the relationship is really complex. Also, they start as friends, then they turn into rivals, and then they turn into lovers. I think the whole story is exceptional; I loved it, but at the end sometimes I didn’t understand what was happening.
So overall I will give this book 4.75 stars. Love the story, love the characters; can’t wait for the next one.
March 25, 2025
Can I give out infinite stars? I cannot correctly put into words what this book did to me. It is so so BEAUTIFUL! Aaron and Maya are a power couple that grew up together and face odds together while also challenging each other. Years pass, and something tragic happens and it’s their love that has to hold steady through the trails and tribulations and it’s that “never give up, never let go” mindset that everyone strives for. I have found similarities of my own life through this book that make it even more special to me. As a married woman it pulled at all my heartstrings. I cried, I laughed, I hugged my husband and reflected on my journey through life with him. It’s such a special book and I will never ever forget it. It will stick with me for as long as I live and I am so honored to have been able to read it! I hope there will be more so I can see these characters again !
March 23, 2025
MMC: Aaron Willow
FMA: Maya Avery
Great supporting characters
Favorite Quote:
“He was the definition of soulmate in my dictionary. My peace. My safe space. My dear, dear nemesis. And my love.”
“I want to be your safe space. I want you to know that if you feel tired or sad or anything, you can count on me.”
Bent Right Your Wind was such a heartwarming read. The story surrounded Aaron and Maya who met each other in elementary school. They were the top of the class and frequently competed to win and excel. Their competitiveness developed into love and eventually they were married. The story is told in dual timeline and dual points of view. As the story unfolds, you experience their frustration, their endearing love and admiration for each other, and the struggles that arise from the bumps they encounter along the way.
This story had me up reading late into the night. The romance was beautifully written. I highly recommend this book.
FMA: Maya Avery
Great supporting characters
Favorite Quote:
“He was the definition of soulmate in my dictionary. My peace. My safe space. My dear, dear nemesis. And my love.”
“I want to be your safe space. I want you to know that if you feel tired or sad or anything, you can count on me.”
Bent Right Your Wind was such a heartwarming read. The story surrounded Aaron and Maya who met each other in elementary school. They were the top of the class and frequently competed to win and excel. Their competitiveness developed into love and eventually they were married. The story is told in dual timeline and dual points of view. As the story unfolds, you experience their frustration, their endearing love and admiration for each other, and the struggles that arise from the bumps they encounter along the way.
This story had me up reading late into the night. The romance was beautifully written. I highly recommend this book.
March 29, 2025
I really loved the story, characters and especially the past timeline. I would've loved to read that story alone, because I felt in the present nothing was really happening I felt a lot of things left unsaid and not explained, but overall I liked it and the writing was great
Esther, this was a great debut! I'm so happy for you, and I'll be waiting for the rest!!
Esther, this was a great debut! I'm so happy for you, and I'll be waiting for the rest!!
March 23, 2025
A love story going across times, with Aaron and Maya loving each other for most of their lives. Their story goes back and forth between past and present, as the couple tries to fix their marriage.
This book was so well written, and the story itself was absolutely impeccable. The way the author wove the two plot lines together was incredibly done. I was always curious to know what happened in both timelines, and always wanted to keep reading. There was never a time I was bored and wanted to skip to the other timeline.
Thank you to Tales and Teacups PR & the author for an eARC of this book.
April 26, 2025
I know I came here to read a romance between two people that grow up together but I liked their child selves the most 😂 Aaron was so cute, whole time I imagined kid Aaron like this: 🥺👉🏻👈🏻 I was giggling like a fool. Right from the start I got bad vibes from Maya's dad and it's a good time to be right 🙏🏻 I hate that man. Even the siblings were adorable when they were all kids. Kid Aaron getting jealous over sharing Maya had to be my favourite bits.
The dual timeline story was sad to read mainly because of the plot twist :') Maya was just a kid who wanted friends. Maybe a family. I could see her be this enthusiastic jumpy cute kid to devastated traumatised adult. I could see her sparkle dim overtime. That was well written.
The slowburn was a joyride. This book is a GREAT demise×uality rep, they both only wanted each other after having a strong emotional connection and friendship, the slow burn took years of development.
The Marriage in Crisis part of this book was respectful, Aaron is a patient unrealistic man 😭 Ain't no green flag flagged the way this flag did. He was patient, but he did break down, he did communicate his feelings to her. He asked Maya to seek psychological help. I liked seeing them try to fix, crumble, fix their sanity together, I felt bad for Maya, her entire reality twisted when she came to know about the plot twist. Just because a marriage is in crisis doesn't mean a couple is rude, or disrespectful to each other, the author displays that well.
Maya's grumpiness is justified and she isn't a rude character, meanwhile Aaron, although sunshiney, he stood his ground and defended himself and his loved one's whenever he needed to. I liked seeing dimensional characters.
I can't wait to read his older brother's book 🤭
The dual timeline story was sad to read mainly because of the plot twist :') Maya was just a kid who wanted friends. Maybe a family. I could see her be this enthusiastic jumpy cute kid to devastated traumatised adult. I could see her sparkle dim overtime. That was well written.
The slowburn was a joyride. This book is a GREAT demise×uality rep, they both only wanted each other after having a strong emotional connection and friendship, the slow burn took years of development.
The Marriage in Crisis part of this book was respectful, Aaron is a patient unrealistic man 😭 Ain't no green flag flagged the way this flag did. He was patient, but he did break down, he did communicate his feelings to her. He asked Maya to seek psychological help. I liked seeing them try to fix, crumble, fix their sanity together, I felt bad for Maya, her entire reality twisted when she came to know about the plot twist. Just because a marriage is in crisis doesn't mean a couple is rude, or disrespectful to each other, the author displays that well.
Maya's grumpiness is justified and she isn't a rude character, meanwhile Aaron, although sunshiney, he stood his ground and defended himself and his loved one's whenever he needed to. I liked seeing dimensional characters.
I can't wait to read his older brother's book 🤭
March 23, 2025
aaron willow you don’t realize what you’ve done for us girlboss women
March 18, 2025
I don't think any words could do justice to how much this book made me feel 💖💖💖
Okay so first off the plot. Oh my did this book have me hooked SO HARD. I couldn't stop reading. It was a story very character-driven, which are my favorite kind of stories. There were so many intense emotions in this book. I don't think there's a single part in the book where I didn't feel something. Joy, love, sadness, frustration, heartbreak, empathy, care, LOVE, desperation (I needed these people to have a happy ending like their marriage crisis KILLED ME and I couldn't stop reading until I saw them happy again) and pride and affection and so much more. We see these characters go through so many phases of life, it's so beautiful. ✨
Maya, my darling girl. If I could hug her for hours, I ABSOLUTELY WOULD. She's intelligent, stubborn, loving, protective and so so strong. She went through so much and still chooses to love and care for the people around her. TELL ME THAT'S NOT INSPIRING AND BEAUTIFUL. The amount of empathy I have for her is out of this world. I wanted her to have a happy ending more than I wanted the air I breathe. 🥹💕
Aaron... I NEED THIS MAN. Inspiring, gentle, resilient, strong, caring, loving, empathetic, smart...
This man is one of the most healing characters I ever read. Patient and understanding and in touch with his emotions and willing to fight for the people he loves and smart. I truly believe that reading about how he loved Maya and his siblings healed a part of me. He was just so gentle and caring and AMAZING. I need him in my life. And he's stubborn and intelligent. We'd bicker/banter all the time, but that's besides the point (Maya acted like me lmao I would have been so stubborn with my academic rival!). He loved Maya through her stubbornness, through her struggles, through her inner battles, through every single thing life through their way. His compassion and kindness and gentleness all made me ache. To be loved by this man 🥰❤️🩹
I also need a side note for the side characters of this book because the girl had my heart. CASSIE GIRLIE COME BE MY BEST FRIEND. She was a literal ray of sunshine the whole time and so kind and sweet and funny and I just adored her. 💞💞💞
The writing was immersive and beautiful. As everyone can see, I A.D.O.R.E.D. so many of these characters. They were all so complex and endearing and adorable and I WANT TO BE IN THEIR WARM FAMILY PLEASEEEEEEEEEE. 😭😭😭😭
There were so many heavy emotions in this book, but it was all sooooooo beautifully explored. This book was a freaking roller coaster for my heart. I still haven't recovered for anyone asking 🥲🫠
*I was absolutely honored to receive an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are my own.*
Okay so first off the plot. Oh my did this book have me hooked SO HARD. I couldn't stop reading. It was a story very character-driven, which are my favorite kind of stories. There were so many intense emotions in this book. I don't think there's a single part in the book where I didn't feel something. Joy, love, sadness, frustration, heartbreak, empathy, care, LOVE, desperation (I needed these people to have a happy ending like their marriage crisis KILLED ME and I couldn't stop reading until I saw them happy again) and pride and affection and so much more. We see these characters go through so many phases of life, it's so beautiful. ✨
Maya, my darling girl. If I could hug her for hours, I ABSOLUTELY WOULD. She's intelligent, stubborn, loving, protective and so so strong. She went through so much and still chooses to love and care for the people around her. TELL ME THAT'S NOT INSPIRING AND BEAUTIFUL. The amount of empathy I have for her is out of this world. I wanted her to have a happy ending more than I wanted the air I breathe. 🥹💕
Aaron... I NEED THIS MAN. Inspiring, gentle, resilient, strong, caring, loving, empathetic, smart...
This man is one of the most healing characters I ever read. Patient and understanding and in touch with his emotions and willing to fight for the people he loves and smart. I truly believe that reading about how he loved Maya and his siblings healed a part of me. He was just so gentle and caring and AMAZING. I need him in my life. And he's stubborn and intelligent. We'd bicker/banter all the time, but that's besides the point (Maya acted like me lmao I would have been so stubborn with my academic rival!). He loved Maya through her stubbornness, through her struggles, through her inner battles, through every single thing life through their way. His compassion and kindness and gentleness all made me ache. To be loved by this man 🥰❤️🩹
I also need a side note for the side characters of this book because the girl had my heart. CASSIE GIRLIE COME BE MY BEST FRIEND. She was a literal ray of sunshine the whole time and so kind and sweet and funny and I just adored her. 💞💞💞
The writing was immersive and beautiful. As everyone can see, I A.D.O.R.E.D. so many of these characters. They were all so complex and endearing and adorable and I WANT TO BE IN THEIR WARM FAMILY PLEASEEEEEEEEEE. 😭😭😭😭
There were so many heavy emotions in this book, but it was all sooooooo beautifully explored. This book was a freaking roller coaster for my heart. I still haven't recovered for anyone asking 🥲🫠
*I was absolutely honored to receive an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are my own.*
May 28, 2025
First of all, thank you Esther for kindly sending me an ARC herself due to problems with the PR company.
Personally I think Esther is so Taylor Swift-coded and I love that this book is a reflection of that. Maya and Aaron had some great moments and were good together in the scenes about their past. If u know me you'd know I'm a sucker for angst so my favorite part of this book was when the fragile parts of their marriage were shown and how they tried to work on them together.
However, I also think that this book didn't live up to its full potential when it totally could, and this may have been partly my fault for having such high expectations. The marketing for this book before release was so promising but unfortunately the book itself didn't live up. The first part of the book can be considered decent but it was the rest that threw me off. The direction of the plot had so much potential to be ground-breaking but the execution just wasn't there, and I couldn't really connect with the writing style, as well as the constant switching of past/present which added confusion. The dialogue felt quite forced and unnatural. There were also some plot holes but I tried my best to ignore them so it's not a big deal.
All in all, considering the amount of publicity it's getting, I'd say this is a decent debut that's going as expected. Thank you so much to Esther again for the ARC.
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Undoubtedly one of my most anticipated reads of 2025 ✨
It’s safe to say I’m already so excited for this book. I can’t wait to be taken the emotional roller coaster that is this book. I don’t know all that happens in it yet but from everything I’ve seen so far, I have a feeling this is going to be a favorite of mine. Why you ask?
1. Academic rivals to lovers, found family, golden retriever MMC and black cat FMC, marriage in crisis? Say no more.
2. The symbolism of the glowing golden thread sprouting from the book, wrapping around the willow tree and the pair of rings on the cover? Call me obsessed.
3. Dual pov AND dual timeline? This book has my heart.
4. The author? Esther Valors is one of the sweetest authors I’ve talked to.
And as I recently said to her, I think the title of the book is so brilliant, the cover is amazing, the tropes are incredible and don’t even get me started on the blurb and the character art! Aaron and Maya already own my heart after just looking at their art.
All in all, I just honestly cannot find anything about this book that I’m not in love with ❤️ To say I’m excited for this book would be an understatement, but I'm really looking forward to reading this incredible book.
Personally I think Esther is so Taylor Swift-coded and I love that this book is a reflection of that. Maya and Aaron had some great moments and were good together in the scenes about their past. If u know me you'd know I'm a sucker for angst so my favorite part of this book was when the fragile parts of their marriage were shown and how they tried to work on them together.
However, I also think that this book didn't live up to its full potential when it totally could, and this may have been partly my fault for having such high expectations. The marketing for this book before release was so promising but unfortunately the book itself didn't live up. The first part of the book can be considered decent but it was the rest that threw me off. The direction of the plot had so much potential to be ground-breaking but the execution just wasn't there, and I couldn't really connect with the writing style, as well as the constant switching of past/present which added confusion. The dialogue felt quite forced and unnatural. There were also some plot holes but I tried my best to ignore them so it's not a big deal.
All in all, considering the amount of publicity it's getting, I'd say this is a decent debut that's going as expected. Thank you so much to Esther again for the ARC.
_____________________________________________________________
Undoubtedly one of my most anticipated reads of 2025 ✨
It’s safe to say I’m already so excited for this book. I can’t wait to be taken the emotional roller coaster that is this book. I don’t know all that happens in it yet but from everything I’ve seen so far, I have a feeling this is going to be a favorite of mine. Why you ask?
1. Academic rivals to lovers, found family, golden retriever MMC and black cat FMC, marriage in crisis? Say no more.
2. The symbolism of the glowing golden thread sprouting from the book, wrapping around the willow tree and the pair of rings on the cover? Call me obsessed.
3. Dual pov AND dual timeline? This book has my heart.
4. The author? Esther Valors is one of the sweetest authors I’ve talked to.
And as I recently said to her, I think the title of the book is so brilliant, the cover is amazing, the tropes are incredible and don’t even get me started on the blurb and the character art! Aaron and Maya already own my heart after just looking at their art.
All in all, I just honestly cannot find anything about this book that I’m not in love with ❤️ To say I’m excited for this book would be an understatement, but I'm really looking forward to reading this incredible book.
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