The Unexpected Gift: When love transcends borders and distance

by Heidi Donohue

In The Unexpected When Love Transcends Borders and Distance, Olivia, a young American exchange student, embarks on a transformative summer filled with love and self-discovery. In the vibrant city of Guayaquil, she meets Javier, a charming local merchant, and their passionate romance blossoms. But when visa struggles and a tragic mystery threaten their dreams, Olivia must navigate heartbreak and unanswered questions.

Twenty-five years later, driven by a desire for closure, Olivia connects with Javier's family across continents. Together, they piece together fragmented memories and hidden truths, celebrating a love that transcends borders.

This heartwarming tale of resilience and enduring love is perfect for the fans of romantic fiction set in exotic locales and those who cherish stories of self-discovery. Will Olivia find the answers she seeks? Join her journey and believe in the power of love to overcome time and distance.

Genres: Romance

267 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 27, 2024

Reviews

[Chapters & Chives · Rating 4 out of 5]

Olivia travels to Guayaquil, Ecuador as an exchange student on a mission to expand her understanding of the world and her own identity. Unexpectedly, she meets a local merchant, Javier, with whom she has undeniable chemistry and forms a deep connection. Through the art of dance and language, Olivia blossoms into her true identity and Javier accepts her unconditionally as herself.

Upon Olivia's return to America, she maintains her relationship with Javier through long distance communication and a love that transcends borders. On top of visa application mishaps, college studies, and long distance challenges, a mysterious tragedy strikes and Olivia is faced with searching for answers. In the process, she learns more about the power of love, the beauty of family and community, and herself.

While reading this award-winning book, I was brought back to the days when I'd read a genre known as travel literature. If you're a fan of travel bloggers and travel literature, you'll love this book! You'll also enjoy it if you're into romance and adventure novels.

[Katelyn M ChaosBookReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Unexpected Gift is one of those rare love stories that doesn’t just entertain you — it changes you. Heidi Donohue takes a real-life romance and turns it into something tender, heartbreaking, and profoundly human. Olivia and Javier’s connection feels so genuine that you can’t help but fall in love right alongside them. The vibrant setting, the cultural richness, the ache of distance — everything is written with such emotional clarity that it’s impossible not to be swept away.

The mystery surrounding Javier’s death and Olivia’s search for truth adds a depth that makes this story so much more than a romance. It’s about grief, timing, fate, and the ways love can echo across years and borders.

If you love love — the real, complicated, soul-shaping kind — this book will absolutely break you and heal you in the same breath. A true gift, indeed.

[Jenna Carson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautiful and touching story about young love and belonging. Reading a story through someone else’s eyes is always eye-opening. The storytelling was phenomenal. Although I was also heartbroken with her, it did bring a sense of understanding different cultures and how vastly different our upbringings are. It makes you feel a sense of appreciation, and I love that she was able to bring those feelings to life with her words. I admire her dedication to Javier and his memory, and I feel honored that she chose us to read this book. Thank you so much ❤️

[Shandy Lusby · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book didn’t just tell a story—it trusted us with a memory. A love so young and fragile, yet fierce in its devotion. Her words held grief illuminating the quiet ache of cultural distance and the beauty of belonging. I felt her heartbreak in my chest, and her hope in my throat. To read this was to be invited into something sacred. I’m grateful she chose us to witness it.

[Brittany Harville · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a beautifully written heartfelt story. Shows true love knows no distance or time. So powerful how she reconnected to him through his family 25 years later. Love how her experiences made her so open and appreciative of other cultures.

[Vanessa Titus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: The Unexpected Gift
​This book is an emotional and inspiring read, written in a unique format that truly draws you into the protagonist's journey. It’s titled simply, "The Unexpected Gift", a fitting name for a story centered on the unplanned, profound changes that love and loss bring. The narrative is told through dated journal entries spanning several years.

​💖 A Love That Transcends Borders and Distance
​From the outset, the narrative captures a powerful central theme: it truly is a story where a love that transcends borders and distance is explored. The young woman at the heart of the story doesn't just fall in love with a man; she falls in love with his culture as well. The entries paint a vivid picture of her immersion, showing how the man and his world inspire her to look beyond her own familiar horizons, pushing her to learn about herself and the broader human experience. The cultural details are rich and respectfully rendered, making the setting feel like another character entirely.

​🌟 A Journey of Self-Worth and Discovery
​Beyond the romance, the book quickly transforms into a profound story of self-discovery and worth. Through her evolving relationship and her later efforts to understand the tragedy that befalls it, the protagonist is forced to confront her own identity, values, and resilience. The journal format excels here, allowing us to witness her vulnerabilities and growth in a raw, intimate way. We see her grapple with grief, confusion, and the search for meaning.

​🔍 Finding Closure and Truth
​The latter part of the book is dedicated to the protagonist's deeply moving quest to connect with her love's family. This is where the story reaches its emotional climax. By forging a bond with them, she not only finds a lasting connection to the man she lost but also begins to uncover the truth about his death. This act of seeking and receiving closure is beautifully handled, providing a sense of peace that is both hard-won and deeply earned. The resolution emphasizes that love leaves a legacy, and that truth can be a powerful balm for the soul.

​A Real Story, Real Impact
​Knowing this story is based on a true story lends it an additional layer of weight and authenticity. It reminds the reader that these incredible human experiences—of profound love, culture clash, devastating loss, and ultimate closure—are not confined to fiction.

​Recommendation: I highly recommend "The Unexpected Gift" for anyone looking for a story that is both heartbreakingly personal and universally inspiring. It’s a testament to the enduring power of love that crosses continents, the importance of cultural connection, and the strength found in self-discovery.

[ReadAlongWithSue ★⋆. ࿐࿔catching up · Rating 5 out of 5]

I chose this book to read by an Indie Authot because it appealed to me that it was based on a True Story. Was I right to do so? Oh yes! I read this within 2 days I was very invested in the story. I don’t do spoilers so I’m not giving anything away that wasn’t in the blurb.Olivia went to Ecuador as a student and lived with her Host family, who really took care of her.she meets and falls for a very kind person named Javier, they are both smitten with each other although Javier doesn’t speak too much English but they get by with Olivia speaking and understanding Spanish. Anyway love doesn’t need words right!
When Olivia has to return home obviously they do not want to be a part however Javier will app,y for a Visa to join her. That doesn’t come to tuition as she finds out Javier has met his death mysteriously.
Now I’m right by the side I’d Olivia I need to know what happened, how and why along with her. I want answers. I recently can resonate with a loved one dying mysteriously in another Country so far away, getting answers is almost impossible. So I was knowing how that felt, not knowing asking questions and doors shutting on you, nothing written in the news etc no matter how hard you try to find answers.it breaks your heart and you can’t rest.when she did find out it was like a hammer against her chest and blaming herself. Social media in this instance did help her to unite and connect bringing her some closure and feeling close to Javier.she needed something positive to live for, a purpose in life to face without him.

I was shocked by how many years passed and her healing was yet to come. She had married and what if her husband read what she had written about her one true love ? The feeling around her was the comfort of Javier. It was lovely to read she found a purpose and a worthwhile thing to do to help her grief. I know grief never leaves you only get used to living with it day to day. Who would know if their love would have survived, I’d like to think so.

This was such a well written book short chapters headed with the next step in life. As you can tell this book was awesome, and I’ll never forget the story of Olivia and Javier.

I recommend this to every reader who wants love in their lives

[Tonya Gladdish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was asked to read this book by the author herself. I felt honored to read this beautiful book of a true life first love - love story about the author herself.

This story is well composed and well written. Some parts are Bilingual in English and Spanish. Some of the Spanish doesn't have translations so it made it a little harder to read as I had to look the phrases up so I could understand what is being said. It has short chapters, which I like, I feel like I can read the book faster. It is full of emotions, very descriptive and holds imaginability. True love story from start to finish. Makes you think you are there with them. Raw and unfiltered honesty. I like how each chapter starts with a date and title almost thinking like a journal/diary entry. Easy to follow. Real life story on love and loss. Would make a good movie or a mini-series TV program. It is a must read. You will long for a love like theirs. It hooks you straight from page 1. You don't want to put it down. Makes you want to say "Just one more chapter." Some descriptive words I would use: long distance love, journey, cultural differences, grief, reflection, confusion, healing, growth, struggles, first love, tragedy. Author shares her life and experiences while studying abroad as a college student in Ecuador, Puerto Rico and Spain.

In reading the book, I cried happy tears and sad tears. I couldn't wait till the end to see what happens with Olivia and Javier. Do they return to each other? Continue with long distance relationship? Did they part ways? Or something else?

Read the book to get the full story and your questions answered.

Love transcends time and distance. "Grief is the last act of love we may ha e to give to those we loved. Where there is deep grief; there was great love." ~Unknown

[Sahar Abdulaziz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Unexpected Gift: When Love Transcends Borders and Distance
By Heidi Donohue

Love, loss, and the courage to remember.

Based on a true story, The Unexpected Gift delivers an authentic and emotionally resonant narrative that blends romance, adventure, coming-of-age, and heartbreak.

Everyone remembers their first true love—the thrill, the anticipation, the unmatched sense of connection when time seems to stand still. Except, of course, when it’s time to say goodbye. Then, time stretches unbearably. But falling in love across borders and oceans brings a wholly different—and deeply challenging—set of experiences.

Told in chronological order, the novel follows Olivia, a young woman who embarks on an overseas educational journey, expecting only to learn a new language and immerse herself in another culture. Instead, she meets someone who changes everything. The two fall deeply in love. That should be the climax—but it’s only the beginning. Bureaucratic red tape, visa restrictions, and border control keep them apart—until uniting is no longer the goal, but the heartbreak.

This is a timely and deeply important story. In an era when families and loved ones are being torn apart by rigid, arbitrary, and often cruel laws, Donohue gives a human face to the emotional toll of restrictive immigration policies, grief, loss, and the fragile process of rebuilding bonds and lives once thought lost forever. The Unexpected Gift is also a tribute to the power of memory, the beauty of sharing stories, and the enduring strength of friendships that span continents, oceans—and even heartbreak.

Poignant and tender, The Unexpected Gift is more than a love story—it’s a call for empathy, connection, and a reminder of the real lives caught in the crosshairs of policy.

[Dana Bazaldua · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Unexpected Gift is a heartbreaking and humbling story of a young woman’s journey through love, longing, and loss. Based on a true story about the author (Heidi Donohue) and her experiences as a summer exchange college student. Olivia immerses herself and the reader into a foreign world opposite to that of the small town world she knows back home in Pennsylvania. We take the journey she once took in Ecuador and find ourselves diving head first into a whirlwind romance with a young man named Javier. When she has to return home their relationship becomes a long distance one. As hard as a long distance relationship is, things become even worse for Olivia when she finds out Javier has died unexpectedly. Between learning to cope with his sudden loss and trying to find closure everything becomes impossible for her to handle at school. Thankfully, Olivia finds support to help her push her way out of her depression. She then chooses to dedicate part of her education degree, a minor in Spanish, to honor Javier. Twenty years pass and she finally learns how Javier died, causing a flood of emotions to come rushing back in and overall bringing her the closure she has needed so badly ever since the day she lost him allowing her to finally find peace.

What a lovely time I had reading this book, walking in Heidi’s shoes, as if she was experiencing all of this for the first time again. What a beautiful chapter of your life you have written down on paper to keep forever close to your heart. Thank you Heidi for reaching out and sharing your heartwarming story with me. It’s a wonderful book and I’m honored to have read your story.

[Amber Todd · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up The Unexpected Gift expecting a sweet, romantic story with a satisfying “happily ever after.” What I got instead was something quieter, more reflective—and ultimately more bittersweet than I was prepared for.

The beginning hooked me right away. The setting in Ecuador was vivid and full of heart, and I loved how it captured that whirlwind feeling of a summer romance in a completely new place. Olivia and Javier's connection felt genuine, full of promise, and made me believe in something lasting—even across borders and years.

But as the story shifted into the present-day narrative, that sense of hope slowly started unraveling. I kept waiting for the big reunion, the second chance, the love that triumphs over time and distance. Without giving too much away, what I got was something different: a story about closure, memory, and loss. There’s emotional payoff, yes, but not the kind I was looking for.

Donohue’s writing is strong—sometimes journal-like, sometimes poetic—but the dual timelines made me feel a bit distanced from the characters at times. I wanted more immediacy, more depth from the people around Olivia, especially in the present.

That said, I do appreciate the emotional honesty here. Not all love stories end the way we hope, and The Unexpected Gift leans into that truth with grace. It’s a reminder that not every meaningful connection is meant to last forever—and that some gifts come wrapped in heartbreak.

So while it wasn’t the uplifting, romantic escape I was expecting, it stayed with me. And maybe that’s its own kind of love story.

[READERSBEWARE · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Unexpected Gift by Heidi Donohue is a romance wrapped in nostalgia and soft heartbreak, the kind of story that feels like leafing through old letters you were never brave enough to send. It follows a love shaped across borders and years, built on the fragile wonder of being young, far from home, and suddenly seen by someone who changes everything. Donohue captures that dizzying tenderness perfectly—the spark, the innocence, the sense that fate is quietly arranging something beautiful in the background.

As the story moves between past and present, a gentle ache settles in. The characters carry memories like half-healed wounds, and every chapter feels like stepping back into a moment that meant more than anyone realized at the time. There’s romance, yes, but it’s threaded with longing—the kind that lingers in the spaces between what was said and what was lost. Donohue lets the love story unfold with a softness that makes every emotional beat land a little harder.

What makes the novel striking is how it treats love not as a neat conclusion, but as something that shapes you long after the moment has passed. It’s romantic in the truest sense: tender, vulnerable, and bittersweet. Without giving anything away, The Unexpected Gift leaves you feeling both warmed and bruised, as if you’ve witnessed a beautiful echo from someone else’s life—and felt it resonate in your own.

[NerdyWordyReviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you looking for a romance story based on a real life situation? One filled with obstacles and heartbreak? Then the Unexpected Gift may be for you.

This story is based on the authors life and showcases the longing and yearning for another who is overseas and therefore, unreachable. A fate so heartbreaking and twisted while knowing you are destined for one another, have an automatic pull toward one another and that no matter how hard you try, the obstacles keep coming and the gap in distance can’t be reached.

This is a story of a relationship built over a short time with a true, deep connection. An irreplaceable love, that no matter the time or distance, will always prove unmatched.

The format of the book is quite unique in that the chapters seem like diary entries that are elaborated on. Or better yet, like a Polaroid picture taken from a point in time that relives the moment and captures the memories clearly. Each chapter has a date and snippet of that “Polaroid” as the story goes on.
It is not written as a fictional novel would be. But as truths and experiences.

I enjoyed this book and appreciate the depths, experiences, heartache and storyline that author Heidi Donohue captured and shared of her own life.

Raw, real, beautiful.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the Spanish version of “The Unexpected Gift,” titled “El Regalo Inesperado.” The narrative captivated me from beginning to end. Miss Donohue’s descriptions of her adventures in a foreign land and her interactions with the locals were so vivid that I felt like I was right there with her.
Miss Donohue brought her experiences to life. But more than that, she was not afraid to reveal deeply personal stages of her life. It was amazing to read her true story of love and loss. This is a tragic yet beautiful tale of an enduring love that transcends the passage of time. I’m happy to have read her story in Spanish, as I do not get to read in my native language as much as I would like.
Traveling to Equador through Miss Donohue's eyes was like stepping into a world I already knew. The music, dance and food descriptions were so familiar. It felt like home. Her vivid memories of the country, its people, and its culture provided a unique perspective. Exploring diverse cultures shows us that we all share life experiences and that we’re all part of the same world. Thank you, Miss Donohue for encouraging us to go beyond our own back yard and see the world.

[M.C. Ryder · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was a teenager, I worked at a place that had an international program that brought students over to work during the summer seasons. I got to meet so many fascinating individuals and learn about their cultures. I have yet to travel to a different country and immerse myself in the culture. That's what this book captures in the first half. A lifetime experience many dream about, but don't get an opportunity. Enrich yourself by experiencing what the author experienced during her stay with a host family, in which she won the lottery with. During her stay, she got to practice her Spanish and made a lifelong connection with a guy named Javier. It was more than just a spark. When her time ends and she has to return to the States, she stays in contact with Javier until communication ceases. She believes the worst- that he lost interest, but she discovers that's not the case at all and becomes determined to find answers while the world forces her to move on repeat. The best stories are the ones we live. Only a few are brave enough to share them. I highly recommend and glad I had the pleasure to meet the author in person and swap books.

[Nere · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story reminded me so much of my teenage years, especially the times I would visit Mexico and had to leave a love behind. That feeling of falling for someone knowing you’ll eventually have to leave them behind is heartbreaking, and the pain of returning to the U.S. without that person felt too familiar.

I loved how vividly she described the places she visited. I felt like I was standing in those moments with her, seeing everything in full color. Her descriptions pulled me directly into the scenes.

I appreciated how much cultural richness the story offered. The way she wrote about Ecuador taught me a lot, both through her time there and through her conversations with Javier. I loved following her journey as she traveled and experienced different cultures. I wish I would have had those experiences. That global exploration added depth and beauty to the story.

My only main struggle was her healing process. While I understand that healing is not linear, this aspect slightly held the story back for me emotionally.

[Stephanie Welsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

I was gifted this amazing story.

Let me start by saying I greatly appreciate the emotional honesty of the book. This is a first time for me reading a based on a true story book. One thing I appreciated was this book shows you that not every connection you have is meant to last forever.

I was drawn in at the beginning and how she was going to Ecuador. With the Spanish mixed into the writing of the story I think a list of words and phrases should have been added somewhere for those who do not know Spanish so the reader can understand what is being said in Spanish.

This was very well written in my opinion. Olivia’s story from beginning to end was one of love and sadness as well as healing. It’s a story that people can relate to in one way or another. Thank you for sharing a piece of your life with readers like myself.


If you love books to help heal a part of you and help transform you then you should read The Unexpected Gift.

[V Brown LetsBeRealBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Heartfelt Review of "The Unexpected Gift" by Heidi Donohue

This true-story-based narrative is truly remarkable. Absolutely 💯

At the heart of the story are Olivia, an American exchange student, and Javier, an Ecuadorian merchant and young man, who embark on an unforgettable journey.

Through Olivia's introspective journal entries and daily activities, this narrative provides a personal and intimate account of their experiences. As they grow and fall in love through dance, walks, and shared experiences, their relationship profoundly impacts Olivia, making her feel seen, loved, and empowered.

The narrative also explores the poignant themes of grief, loss, and healing, demonstrating personal growth over time, distance, and language.

The timeless adage, "Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all," rings true, as expressed by Alfred, Lord Tennyson.
I cried so much towards the end of book!

I highly recommend this book.

[Nini · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of having this book gifted to me by Heidi herself. It was a pleasure and honour to read this wonderful true story of adventure, love and grief. Heidi takes us on an adventure as she goes to Ecuador as an exchange student, travelling by herself for the first time in a foreign country. Making new friends and new connections she meets the love of her life Javier. Having to return home and have a long distance relationship, things become difficult when he is denied a visa to come to the USA and then confusion sets during one of their weekly phone calls.

This was a five star read for me. The storytelling is well put together. I loved that it had short chapters and that the chapter title read as a journal entry because it had a date included in the title. I highly recommend you read this today!

[Tammy Horvath · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was utterly absorbed in this fabulous story filled with suspense and surprising twists. Olivia’s study abroad experiences in Puerto Rico, Spain, and Ecuador were particularly memorable; the sounds of Spanish music, the tastes of delicious coconut, and the sight of the Galapagos Islands created lasting memories. She found the love of her life in Ecuador’s vibrant, bustling markets, but she eventually had to leave him behind when she returned home to the quiet suburbs of Pennsylvania. Their struggle to reunite was so captivating, filled with both tension and hope, that I couldn’t put the book down. Heidi Donohue’s book offers a compelling blend for fans of travel books filled with whirlwind romance and mystery.

[Sarah Seelbaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This enchanting story weaves together themes of heartbreak and love. Mayra has faced a tumultuous past with her family, while Olivia embarks on a journey to Ecuador for her studies. There, she forges an unbreakable bond with Ramona and grows fond of her host family. As Olivia meets Javier through Amy, a dreamy romance blossoms. However, when Olivia must return to the States and navigate a long-distance relationship, tragedy strikes with a note from Anna that connects her to Javier. The shocking revelation prompts Olivia to launch her own investigation, reaching out to his family to uncover the truth behind the events that unfolded. This inspiring tale is based on real-life experiences, and I absolutely adored this book!

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia's journey became a profound lesson in self-discovery, teaching her about love, loss, and acceptance. She realized she was much stronger than she ever believed. Meeting Javier, her first love, was a pivotal chapter in her life which deeply influenced the course of her journey.

When tragedy struck, she found herself falling into a dark place. With the strong support of her friends and parents, she managed to climb out of the shadows and step back into the light.

Her time in Ecuador left an indelible mark on her heart, shaping not only her perspective on life but also guiding her toward the career she found during her journey. Eventually leads her to her husband.

[Beth Karchner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing journey of love, loss, and resilience! The Unexpected Gift is a moving story based on the real life experience of the author. It was beautifully written and drew on my heartstrings. Sharing this story took incredible strength and humility. Her descriptive accounts made me feel like I was there with her and brought up a multitude of emotions. From loss, to acceptance, to healing, the reader shares her courageous journey, as she demonstrates resilience throughout. Join her and others in this experience!

[christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a good read!

The Unexpected Gift is a heartfelt story that explores love, loss, and the power of connection. Olivia faced personal challenges and unexpected changes in her life. She has to navigate struggles. she confronts her fears and learns to embrace vulnerability.

Oliva is resilient, and I love how she finds joy in unforseen circumstances.

If you like books of transformation and the healing power of relationships, this book might resonate with you.

A MUST READ!

[Natasha Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love a true story that makes you feel everything the characters are feeling..this is the book for you.
Olivia embarks on a journey, all by herself, to a foreign country, to learn the language and culture, only to find herself falling in love with Javier, the man at the market.
Their love continues once she goes back to America but they face challenges.
Olivia’s world is shattered on that fateful night when she calls him like she always did, only to have a woman answer. Who is this woman and why is she answering Javier’s phone?

[Kellyann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Unexpected Gift glows with youthful innocence and first love’s lasting impact. Readers experience Olivia’s excitement and trepidation as she leaves her sheltered small town and travels to Ecuador to study. There she navigates new cultural experiences and finds love. I especially enjoyed the author’s ability to highlight Olivia’s often conflicting emotions and self-discovery. This is due to the writing style which feels very real in its sincerity and vulnerability. This powerfully emotional story is a must read as it captures young love and its enduring effect.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading novels that touch the heart. The Unexpected Gift moved me in directions that were both heartwarming and chilling. I found myself feeling ecstatic at times, but curious and cautious at others. Olivia’s journey to Equator transformed the lives of two people, whose love and happiness turned to doubt and extreme sorrow. At the story’s end, I felt a desire for it to continue with her loves’ family. I truly hope at some point, this heartfelt journey will be made into a romance/tragedy movie. ❤️MK

[Pennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolute beautiful story. I love that it’s based on a true story. It opens your eyes up to the good and bad in other countries, while watching a love story blossom and go through other things in the main character’s life. I went through so many emotions during this story. There were lots of tears. I want to highly encourage my recommendation for others to read this story. It even encouraged me to start learning another language! This will be a story you will want to read over and over again!

[Rebecca Palaversic · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a quick yet FULL read! It truly left me wanting more, I truly wish it was longer. I am not a frequent romance reader but was pleasantly surprised by the way this author developed and explained the love without sounding cheesy, which is often what turns me away from romance books! The grief portion should serve as a roadmap to others that life will ALWAYS keep going but there are ways to heal & honor those we have lost. Thank you for writing this book Heidi :)

[Stephanie Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this romance book that was based on a true story. Written as like a journal, we follow Olivia and her teenage to adult life as she shares about her experiences while learning abroad in another country, learning a second language and falling in love.
This story was so heartwarming and heartbreaking that I resonated with so much on a personal level. I enjoyed reading about other cultures and languages. I cried, smiled and felt like I was with Olivia on her life journey.