Format Read: eARC
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Thank you to Rattle the Stars PR for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Brief Summary
This story follows a couple navigating personal growth, trauma, and relationship challenges while learning how to show up better for each other. It explores healing, emotional baggage, and the realities of being in a partnership where both people are still works in progress.
What Worked for Me
One of my favorite aspects was the couple’s dynamic. I really appreciated the idea of two people actively trying to grow and become better - both individually and together. We get to clearly see the FMC confronting and working through her trauma, which added emotional depth and vulnerability to her journey.
I also liked that the relationship wasn’t idealized. The story includes realistic struggles and conflicts that many couples experience, which made parts of it feel relatable and grounded.
PS the dedication was mind blowing!
What Didn’t Work for Me (Optional)
While we’re told that the MMC is growing and improving, we don’t always see that development fully play out on the page beyond the shift from “playboy” to committed partner. I would have loved more shown growth rather than being told it happened.
Additionally, although the book touches on meaningful emotional struggles, some of those themes felt a bit surface-level at times. I wanted a deeper dive into certain conflicts to feel more emotionally invested.
I also had mixed feelings about how the FMC was portrayed in moments of internal conflict. The story explores the idea of bottling up emotions until they eventually spill over - which is a very real experience - but because we’re in her POV, it was sometimes frustrating not to see more self-awareness or consistent emotional processing. I think adding more nuance to those moments could have created even more depth.
Overall Thoughts
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, especially if you’re looking for something engaging without wanting an extremely heavy emotional deep dive. The themes are meaningful, but they’re handled in a way that keeps the story accessible rather than intensely introspective.
Who I’d Recommend This To
I’d recommend this to readers who enjoy relationship-focused romances, character growth arcs, and realistic couple dynamics - especially if you’re in the mood for a good, engaging story that touches on deeper themes without being emotionally overwhelming.
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Will I read more from this author? Maybe
Quotes i love :
“He’s lucky you left, Khlo. ’Cause if you hadn’t, I would’ve rearranged his dick with a baseball bat.”
“But Waylon’s gaze doesn’t slide down like I expect. It stays on my eyes. And that leaves more of a mark than any pickup line ever could.”
‘The one who runs from truth trips over pride.’
“But next time, I won’t be the girl standing in the rain. I’ll be the thunder rolling in behind it.”