Anything

Mayberry University #1

by Kristina Welch

Two guarded hearts.
He’s breaking down walls and she’s building them higher--
A match made in Heaven, or a blueprint for disaster?


After the fiery downward spiral of senior year, Kit Talbot crash-lands on a quirky college campus where traditions rule and dorm floors act more like family. It’s just weird enough to keep her mind off the wreckage she’s leaving behind.

Enter Levi Whitaker, known as the swooniest guy on campus. Magnetic, confident, and far too much like the ex who sent her life into that PTSD-tainted nosedive. Levi seems to be everywhere, focused on her like she’s the only girl in the world--even indulging her sugar addiction with delivered treats. But Kit’s self-preservation instincts are sharper than ever, and she deflects him like Wonder Woman blocking bullets.

That is, until Levi’s quiet faith and humble apology start to break down Kit’s defenses. He loves Jesus in the dreamiest way, looks like wow, and ... somehow triggers the flashbacks she fights so hard to avoid. Every minute with him is a risk she isn’t sure she should take. Should she protect them both from the chaos of her life or learn a bravery that feels irresponsible?

As Kit fights to keep her life safe and manageable, she leans into her faith, clinging to the Bible verses God whispers to her heart. Clearly, he’s up to something, but the healing she prays for isn’t happening the way she wants.

Why is God silent on the prayer she needs most?

Genres: Romance, Christian, Christian Fiction, Contemporary, College, Christian Romance, Audiobook

352 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 1, 2025

About the author

When Kristina Welch isn't adventuring around the world with her husband and three little blondies, she's home near Denver, Colorado.

She thrives on date nights, forest hikes, and peanut butter cookies. Her days include half-homeschooling her kids, thrifting for treasures, tackling (and usually regretting) DIY home projects, and soaking in the beauty of the mountains—and their Creator—from her favorite writing chair.

Check out her new Mayberry University Series about a college campus where following Jesus gets real and love shows up uninvited.

Reviews

[ari [gin’s vrsn 🩵] [semi ia] · Rating 4 out of 5]

cute christian romcom— however i was not a fan of all the pop culture references

rtc! 💕

[Sylvie {Semi-Hiatus} · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an E-Arc and an audiobook in exchange for an honest review!*

3.75 Stars!

This was so cute and fun. I'm so glad I got the opportunity to read and listen to the audiobook in the mean time.

I'm so excited for the next books in the Mayberry University series.

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely type story for those YA and romance readers which I am not exactly a fan of other than having some happily ever after/satisfying romance aspect added to it for the feel good part. However, as I mentioned I want to help support a new authors when they are certainly writing true Christian and inspirational books with spiritual references; quite refreshing. She is one I can gladly recommend for anyone wanting this kind of story; for Kit was loveable but I felt frustrated with her at times while dear ole Levi; he was such a saint! lol

So I will probably pick for my next read one of my usual genres of a historical and/or suspence nature; one for the kind of "cynical" me ;)

[Jeanine Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you looking for a read that is unapologetically and deeply rooted in Jesus? A book that isn’t afraid to boldly speak His name and showcases the faith that a true believer has. A story that realistically presents the struggles of young Christians as they navigate an imperfect world. How those trials, though they sometimes feel insurmountable, once conquered, strengthen faith and help us to discern the leading of the Spirit. If you love books like this, then I’ve got one for you.

I found Anything while searching NetGalley. The cute cover caught my eye, but it was the description that had me pressing ‘Read Now’. “Anything is a story for Jesus Freaks…” While “freaks” is not always a positive descriptor, it is what a lot of Christians are label. To some it is derogatory, but to a believer it usually means you are doing something right.

Anything follows Kit, who struggles with PTSD, a college student trying to overcome her fears in order to live a normal life. A bad experience with an ex leaves her unable to function when presented with certain situations. She tries to steer clear of any triggers, but when she gains the attention of the most biggest catch on campus she is torn between fight or flight.

This story lets us see her doubts, temptations, fears, but also her growth and strength. It is the epitome of “let go and let God.” Her commitment to Christ and her continued dedication and prayer life help her to heal and live.

While this is written mainly for older teens and young college students, it can be enjoyed by all adults. If you are a NetGalley member it won’t be archived until 4.21.25. It is available as Read Now and Listen Now. I choose the audiobook which is consequently narrator by the author. Who did her own recording. Kudos to you, Kristina Welch. I can feel your heart for this story and your love for Jesus shine through.

[Emily ✞ || [fallon's vrs]]

⋮ ⌗ ┆DNF @64% ⋆𖦹⋆ˎˊ˗

⁀➷ Only because it’s been taking me months to read this, my reading tastes have been evolving (I’m not one for romances anymore, shocking, I know), and I found the events in this book a tad repetitive. I would still recommend this as it does have a wonderful message of leaning on Jesus and following Him, but I’m not gonna force myself to finish something I’m clearly not enjoying 🥀

[Lori Hooten · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kit is such an authentic character that the reader is pulled in immediately. Within a few words, Kit is the center of the story and you are rooting for her. You don’t even know what exactly it is that makes you root for her, as her trauma is undefined for a good long while. You just know she is the good one and needs support and encouragement. And you feel that you can give it to her. That is what makes a good story; it keeps you turning the pages, one right after the other.

Without knowing what all is going on, you find yourself invested in the characters, both Kit and Levi. You see their reliance on God, His wisdom, His way. And you want to be more like them. You feel deeply their hurts and want them to be able to recover from them, to move forward in life with the hope and joy that they each deserve. It is a highly encouraging story that you just cannot put down. Definitely a story worth it all.

Kristina Welch writes story that focus on God and how He actively loves in the lives of His children. The characters are God-honoring, still human and flawed, but seeking God through it all. The thoughts that bring true faith to life flow through her characters and make the story real. This is joy in reading.

I cannot wait to find more of Kristina Welch’s writing, her God honoring stories, and the encouragement they bring. I am looking forward to what she has coming down the pipe.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Tawni Suchy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've struggled to find NA/College romances that are free of spice and strong language. This one was a breath of fresh air. It not only was spice and language free but full of Jesus.

The setting, the friendships, the romance that took FOREVER to unfold (talk about a slowwww burn). The MMC's patience with the FMC and finally the FMC's process of healing after traumatic event and giving into the pull she had toward him from the get go was so satisfying.

I loved the little nods to college life that took me back to my years away in college but more than that, I loved the super strong themes of faith.

If you're looking for a book that's packed full of scripture, prayer, and just strong Christian themes and values you need to check out "Anything" by Kristina Welch!

[Sandy E23 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book was a refreshing change for me, as it explored themes I don’t typically gravitate toward. As a Christian, I often find myself frustrated with how young Christians—especially teens and young adults—are portrayed as naive or backward in many stories. But this book was different. It offered a realistic and empathetic portrayal of the struggles faced by young Christian couples navigating their faith in a complex world. The characters felt authentic, and their challenges were relatable, making the story a meaningful read that didn’t oversimplify or demean their beliefs.

[Hallie (Hallie Reads)]

anything may look like just another cute young-adult contemporary romance, but it also doesn't shy away from some tougher topics, like the lingering effects of attempted assault, changing friends and finding people to trust, and weaving faith into day-to-day living.

kit talbot heads off to mayberry university, ready for a fresh start. of course, it doesn't take her long to encounter levi whitaker, who presents quite the challenge... she's built metaphorical walls to protect herself after the experiences of her past, yet levi seems like a guy that just might be worth tearing them down.

levi pursues kit gently, but persistently, even with his own reservation. it's no easy task, requiring plenty of sweet treats, patience, prayer, and some cheesy dialogue, and i enjoyed seeing both of the characters grow, while depending on God, throughout their time together. at times, i was annoyed, as the reader, knowing that kit just needed to open up and talk to someone—but that's always easier said than done, so i don't hold that against the character.

overall, anything represents the struggles and experiences of these characters with heart, grace, and value. it's a sweet, uplifting, wholesome romance, and i look forward to (hopefully) spending more time at mayberry university in future books.

(i received a complimentary copy from the author. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)
 
 
considerations: 
—language: none
—spice: kisses only
—faith: characters rely on relationships with Jesus throughout the story
—content: mental effects of past trauma, but no on-page detail of the attempted assault

[Deanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a refreshing look at what college life can be. This book is perfect for young college or college bound kids. I love the faith and pop-culture references. They were a great example of how a young person can relate to something without idolizing it.
Kit is off to college in Texas but can she leave the trauma she experienced behind her? This story leads you through Kit and Levi’s journey through healing, growing in their faith and possibly finding love.
I will be recommending this book to my teenage daughter as it shows her it’s ok to cling to your faith, have expectations in relationships all why staying true to yourself.
My only complaint was I listened to the audiobook and found it hard to separate the characters during parts of the story. I would recommend getting a hard copy of this book. I will be adding it to my collection. I love supporting clean, Christian YA authors.
I was given an audio ARC copy of this book for my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley, Kristina Welch and publisher for sharing this book.

[Dianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Modern Christian Romance full of fun
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review and was rewarded with a fun filled yet meaningful story of a young woman on a college campus. This novel is both entertaining and encouraging as the author covers real life challenges for college students.

[Kendra Mae · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5! Kit is a college freshman leaning heavily on prayer and scripture while navigating her healing journey from past relationship trauma. She must confront her fears to open back up to the possibility of love.

I enjoyed the internal monologues and consistency of Kit’s relationship with and reliance on God. The verses sprinkled throughout were nice too.

I was quite annoyed with Kit though. Maybe it’s the YA aspect but she felt very 1 dimensional with her only “hero’s journey” being the past trauma affecting her current situation. I wanted more of a plot alongside what I feel should have been the “B story”. Levi, however, was written by a woman—such a gem of a man! 5 stars for him.

Overall, it was a cute, lighthearted story exploring Kit’s journey of learning to trust again while seeking grace through faith. PS: I was here for all the millennial tv/music references—Psych, Veronica Mars, Gilmore Girls, country music and more! I would recommend this book to the Christian YA community!

Thank you NetGalley for an audiobook copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

I randomly stumbled upon an ARC audio reading by the author for this book on NetGalley, and truly think my receiving this book was orchestrated by God in His perfect timing! This book ministered to me so much!!!

The author tactfully mixes together the shame that is felt from traumatizing events, the joy and excitement of potential relationships, and the fear of stepping out in faith into the unknown. This book revealed in my heart past hurt that I didn't even know I was still holding onto and finally prompted me to tell God, "I want to be healed." God is redeemer of the lost, healer of the hurt, and comforter to the broken. As long as we place our trust, cares, fear, hopes, desires, and dreams in His arms, all will be well. My only complaint is that the author has no other books yet available for me to binge read 😭

My challenge to anyone reading this book would be this... God gives only good gifts to His children; if only we were to accept all the gifts He provides, no matter how difficult the packaging or the assembly it may require.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and I could not put it down because I needed to find out what would happen to Levi and Kit. I thought the author did such a great job with all the details and capturing who these characters are. The storyline can seem a little long at times but you truly get to not only know the main characters completely but you see their relationship with each other and God develop throughout the story.

My heart went out to Kit, her struggles with PTSD and memories of her abusive relationship in highschool. She has put up these permanent walls and rightly so but she is faithful in clinging to her faith despite of what is happening in her heart and mind. She continually encouraged others and made sure she did it in a manner that would glorify God. Her relationship with her siblings and her parents, especially her mom was superb and one that I strive for in my own life. To always lead with that example of God being the center for your children is what any mom strives for and you can see Kit reaping what has been sown to her when she is with others.

Oh my word Levi is amazing!! He is truly the perfect mix of dreamy and swoony all at the same time. He will leave you sighing out loud most of the story. He is so patient and leans on God for everything. His courtship with Kit is so sweet and truly one that just put God in the center of it all. He also had some growth in the story and it was neat to see how he handled everything with maturity and love.

The side characters that I hope we will see in future books in the series were heartwarming and brought the perfect mix to the story. I loved all the references to pop culture, I mean for a YA book you cannot wrong doing that as it makes the story completely relatable to the reader.

I hope to read more from this author and I hope to see Kit and Levi again in future stories. The author tackles a pretty deep subject but she does it in a way that is not overly triggering as there are no graphic descriptions. She truly does it in the most gentle of ways.


I received a copy of this book for review. All views expressed are my own.

[Katlin Channel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, Netgalley and publisher for an audiobook arc for this book in exchange for a honest review.

I was excited to listen to this Christian romance book. It did take me a bit to get into this book with the two main characters. Once I did, I enjoyed their relationship. This book had so much great faith and growth throughout the book. I think Kit and Levi had situations that they both had to work through in order for them to be able to build their relationship. While I didn't love how much Kit pushed people away, Levi staying by her and being there for her was so sweet. Once they both opened up to each other and others, you could see how much that built the relationship. I also loved the side characters of Austin, Haymitch, Sophie, and Mia. I also love the pop culture references throughout the book. The overall story of this book was so much a great listen; I loved that the Author did the narration for her own book. It is always great to find a Christian romance that you really enjoy.

#Anything #Netgalley

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75⭐️/5

If you read the description you don’t need to read the book.

I liked the concept of this book, but not the execution. It was the same cycle of conversation and situation chapter after chapter. Kit was triggered she would push Levi away - he would apologize for something he didn’t even know about and on and on the cycle went.

I get she was experiencing trauma, but come on. Too many chapters of the exact same thing. It was too much and I lost interest.

I wish there would have been more inflection in the narrators voice while she read. I couldn’t tell who was talking in the conversation because there was no change between the characters.

Overall it was a sweet story just VERY very repetitive and linear and hardly anything changed until the last five chapters. I loved Levi’s character but was SO fed up and tired of Kit by the end. 😩😬

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are completely my own. Thank you NetGalley and IBPA for this ARC.

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good Christian YA Contemporary Romance. I will be honest the first 20% of this book I didn’t love and wanted to DNF. And there were too many song/singer and movie references for me personally. However, that being said, I stuck with it and it got SO MUCH BETTER! I’m so glad I continued reading. There was really good Christian content throughout. The main character Kit, has PTSD from an event with her old boyfriend and she struggles with that throughout. Levi is so patient with Kit even though he has no idea why she reacts to him like she does. I liked watching Kit learn to hand her struggle over to God. I also liked how Kit and Levi set boundaries which is very important with relationships. Overall I thought this was a great story for YA readers and I would recommend to YA.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book intrigued me. A young woman who suffers from PTSD and a young man who carries his own heavy burdens. Their paths cross at college.. it's so much more. It's about yielding to God. Investing time in His Word, communicating with Him, worshipping Him. As these young people try to break down their walls, they grow closer to God and ultimately to each other.

Yes, it is a little heavy (Kit was almost assaulted, but there are no descriptions of it). She does, however, have a wonderful support system. Levi is super patient as his feelings are hurt time after time. It's encouraging that Kit gets counseling and takes steps towards healing. My absolute favorite part is the epilogue and the list of scriptures at the end!

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Heather Laskos · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a cute Christian college romance. But beneath the surface the main characters show us their struggles. Kit shows up to her freshman year struggling with the aftermath of being sexually assaulted less than a year ago. Levi is a returning student who is insecure about other accepting him as himself instead of pursing him for his money or connections. Together they both grow and open up to each other as they build on the foundation of their faith.
The audiobook was read by the author, so it was nice to be able to hear they way she meant her words to be heard.

[Feliscity ☼ · Rating 4 out of 5]

.˚ ᵎ┊͙🍪⛪️ ೄྀ࿐ ˊˎ-


˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Favorite Character ▸ n/a

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Favorite quote ▸ ❝ ❞

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Review ▸ So. Many. Tears.

I’ll start off by saying how I was struggling in the beginning with the writing style and plot. It seemed kinda jumbled, but I am so grateful that I kept with it. I truly love this book and its characters.

I don’t wanna go into specifics details so I’ll try to be vague so nothing is spoiled!

Kit, my baby. To be honest she really annoyed me at times, but maybe that’s because in so many ways I relate to her. Her story, her trauma with trust, her striving for Jesus, but getting frustrated with lack of progress. Her character progression was gorgeous, no other words for it. Never have I read a character whose growth is in God and is so incredibly believable and inspiring.

Levi, lovely sweet boy. I ain’t even gonna lie, I’ve been in love since the pov for him hehehe. Honestly writing a man of God that’s in college is a hard task, but this author achieved it. His steadfast love for Kit was such a parallel to sweet Jesus. Many moments had me emotional. I never grew up around a man of God, so the concept can be hard for me. However reading about him kept a reminder that, there are men of God out there.

This love story reminded me that, love is perfect by our own human capabilities. When we keep Jesus at the center of our lives, only then is this possible. I pray my own Levi finds me, and when it happens, that the Father is the center focus of our lives.

To wrap it up, this was a really good ya romance, but it has inspired and convicted me in many ways. BRB, gonna go spend time with the Savior and I pray you do too. He has never left you, Jesus hasn’t forgotten about you. He loves you.

‧₊˚✧ Would I Recommend? ▸ yes <3

[Flava’s Idle Vault · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book had many cute moments. The Taylor Swift and Disney references were a plus because I’m a big fan, it also had many other “pop culture-ish” references that made the book feel familiar and fresh.

The FMC felt lighthearted and fun, but also a little lost when it came to flirting and putting herself out there, which made her so easy to relate to.
The MMC’s sweet notes and foodie gifts were a small but meaningful way of showing love, and the book’s message about faith, trust and surrendering was a great reminder that prayer doesn’t have to be complicated or fit into a perfect schedule.

That being said, I struggled to stay fully immersed. The dual POV was great in theory, but the transitions weren’t always clear on the audiobook, and I found myself getting lost if I wasn’t reading along with the book. The slow burn romance had its sweet moments but I think I would have connected more with the story if there had been a deeper emotional journey for the two MCs.

Even though it wasn’t perfect, it still had a cute and satisfying ending that left me with a smile.

⭐️⭐️✨☆☆ (2.5/5)

Special thanks to NetGalley for the eARC & audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

[Ella Noellee · Rating 4 out of 5]

cute Christian college romance🥹💘
I liked the story but (being honest) I was annoyed with Kit in sometimes. Also they got together later in the book then I’d liked. 🫠
Levi was SO incredibly sweet and patient🥹 I loved how he was supporting her “sugar addiction”😆🤭 (iykyk)
I also loved how the characters developed and changed throughout the book and the faith themes 💗
Overall it was really cute and I’d recommend🤭🥰

tropes:
💘Christian themes
💘college romance
💘sweet MMC
💘PTSD rep FMC
💘he falls first

closed door
no swearing

ENJOY!;)💗

[Lieke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a cute story! Loved it to see that He is the main character through the whole story

[Annie Bledsoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stop this was actually so cute🥹 Cutie little redemptive love story and what a great example of being pursued by a Godly man instead of being the one to pursue a worldly ‘man.’ 4.5⭐️

[Violet Judd · Rating 4 out of 5]

super cheesy but adorable love story that had me never wanting to put it down! 😊

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

The reader is also the author. Her voice is pleasant and her reading ability is good. She would do very good with a non-fiction book. With a fiction novel the characters it became difficult with the audio because all of the characters sounded just too close to each other. I'm conversation we received context clues or character cues so it was easier to follow the conversation. But it would bounce on chapter so if you weren't listening really close to here who the chapter was about it really was difficult. The other technical issue that was very jarring especially at the beginning was the first several chapters the audio was edited for free by a company advertising at the end/ beginning of the first several chapters & really was loud and jarring. Also there is a ton of Pop culture references. I did not keep up with most of them. Many of them didn't even give where they came from.
There are Christian overtones throughout. Well written not overly preachy. What I did find was that the characters who were good were exceptionally good, and the "bad" thing that happened to our protagonist stays a mystery through the whole book I felt was pretty weak because there just wasn't enough there for her to carry on like she did for so long. I am sure that was a scary experience. I am sure that affected her. But to me it did not feel like a deep enough wound for her to try and be so protective because it's not something that is unforgivable or makes you unclean because nothing really even happened. The trauma really I would think is rolling across the ground was painful I would imagine. It finally came together it just didn't feel like this would be the big thing that would be the great reveal to tell someone you really trust. (And the reader). With something like that if it's somebody you really trust and somebody who can forgive then effectively this could be as devastating to someone's relationship as saying "I used to shoplift regularly in my youth and was caught by the police."
I did enjoy the reminders of keeping God close continuously asking for God's guidance. Remembering our Savior and Redeemer, and his loving Grace and forgiveness. Never discounting the sacrifice made for us

Thank you for netgalley providing this audio in return for an honest review

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall I thought this was a good Christian romance that focused on overcoming trauma by relying on God. I felt like the first half of the book was a little slow going but by about halfway through the book started to pick up and we started to see the characters progress to healthier relationships. I liked that the story was written from both Levi and Kit’s perspectives. I do wish we had more of Levi’s perspective in the first half but I do understand that the author wanted us to understand Kit’s trauma and how that was influencing her relationships. I liked that the author used different people to reach Kit and that she started to see how God was trying to help her. I liked that the friend group was unique but had similar values. Overall I did enjoy it.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Regency_Fan_ Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrator, who happens to be the author, has a delightful voice. 😊 I truly appreciated the emphasis on maintaining a close relationship with God, continuously seeking His guidance while reflecting on our Savior's loving grace and forgiveness. It's essential to remember the incredible sacrifice made for us. Overall, this story is heartwarming, and I found Levi’s character particularly endearing, while I felt a genuine compassion for Kit. Additionally, the pop culture references added a fun layer to the narrative. It was an amazing debut!
I received a complimentary
audio copy of this book and listened to it with pleasure. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, NetGalley.

[Christian Shelves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Getting to visit Mayberry University has been a treat in reliving Bible college and seeing young adults discover all that God has for them. In this new adult series, Kristina Welch invites readers to meet students who are on the cusp of major life decisions while building formative relationships. Kit and Levi are two such students who come from different backgrounds and while we get to be in Kit’s head more often, it’s wonderful to see how both individuals grow over the course of their story together. What made this book stand out was just how embedded the Bible was in the minds of Kit and Levi, where they constantly referenced what God’s Word had to say about each situation they faced. These characters lived and breathed prayer, providing a reprieve from the heaviness of Kit’s burdens.

Another outstanding element in this book is how the Bible verses are compiled, where readers have the opportunity to reference them and be reminded of God’s faithfulness to His people. If anything, this book touches on numerous aspects of God’s love, including His steadfastness, His patience with us, and His delight in rejoicing over us. I appreciate that issues around mental health, PTSD, and relational boundaries are touched on and that the characters are open to seeking help, which isn’t an easy step. Readers who are looking for a slow burn with plenty of pop culture references that will help them feel at home with Gen Z students will appreciate a thoroughly Christian relationship that is based on Jesus alone.

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

I am grateful to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Violet Bove · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.8 stars - i liked this onee, it was good!! it was a cute, short palate cleanser. the only thing i didn't like was the slow burn was a bit too long, like the whole middle of the book. the end was extremely satisfying though, all that I could hope for. the middle gets a 3 star, the end gets a 5 star. trigger warnings though, for those, check the beginning of the book!!