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Every Step of the Way
A lyrical, heart-aching debut about the loves we lose, the roots that call us home, and the fragile, breathtaking courage of starting over.
Noah thought she had her future mapped out—with Derek by her side, music in her veins, and a love she believed could survive anything. But when Derek begins to unravel under the weight of secrets and self-destruction, Noah finds herself fighting for someone who’s already slipping out of reach.
When her life, and everything she dreamed of, collapses, she turns to the one person who has always been her her grandmother. In the stillness of that familiar home—surrounded by old photographs, lingering melodies, and gentle wisdom—Noah begins the slow, tender work of piecing herself back together.
But grief has many faces, and healing is rarely simple. As time moves forward and the past refuses to stay buried, Noah must confront heartbreak, identity, and the quiet strength it takes to choose hope when the world feels unrecognizable.
A story of love, loss, and the courage to begin again, Every Step of the Way is a deeply emotional journey about the people who shape us, the memories that haunt us, and the healing we find when we return to where it all began.
Editorial Review
“An absolutely beautiful story... With compelling characters and brilliant twists, this novel is well worth reading. Very highly recommended.”
— Readers’ Favorite
Perfect for readers who
• Emotional, character-driven contemporary fiction
• Grief-and-healing arcs
• Found family and grandmother–granddaughter bonds
• Lyrical writing and slow, hopeful transformation
Noah thought she had her future mapped out—with Derek by her side, music in her veins, and a love she believed could survive anything. But when Derek begins to unravel under the weight of secrets and self-destruction, Noah finds herself fighting for someone who’s already slipping out of reach.
When her life, and everything she dreamed of, collapses, she turns to the one person who has always been her her grandmother. In the stillness of that familiar home—surrounded by old photographs, lingering melodies, and gentle wisdom—Noah begins the slow, tender work of piecing herself back together.
But grief has many faces, and healing is rarely simple. As time moves forward and the past refuses to stay buried, Noah must confront heartbreak, identity, and the quiet strength it takes to choose hope when the world feels unrecognizable.
A story of love, loss, and the courage to begin again, Every Step of the Way is a deeply emotional journey about the people who shape us, the memories that haunt us, and the healing we find when we return to where it all began.
Editorial Review
“An absolutely beautiful story... With compelling characters and brilliant twists, this novel is well worth reading. Very highly recommended.”
— Readers’ Favorite
Perfect for readers who
• Emotional, character-driven contemporary fiction
• Grief-and-healing arcs
• Found family and grandmother–granddaughter bonds
• Lyrical writing and slow, hopeful transformation
325 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2026
6 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
March 1, 2026
˗ˏˋʚɞˎˊ˗ Life hasn’t always been fair to Noah, but things started to change for her when she met Derek, and she felt like she could endure anything life threw at her. What more could she need when she has her music and a love that makes her life brighter? But as time goes on and Derek changes into a different person under the weight of his secrets, Noah tries to fight for the love that seems to no longer exist within their home. And when everything in her life comes crashing down, Noah turns to her grandmother and begins her healing journey as more grief, heartache, and wonderful surprises mold her into who she really is.
ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ♡ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ
ᴺᴼᵂ ᴾᴸᴬᵞᴵᴺᴳ: Eternity by Alex Warren
1:03 ───ㅇ───── 3:09
˗ˏˋʚɞˎˊ˗ Wow, I did not expect this to be so sad! 😭 I had literally tears running down my face because it seemed like Noah could not catch a break, and it was breaking my heart. 💔 Not only that, but the story brought up memories that are hard to think about, and I thought about saving this book for a time when I don’t feel grief looming over my shoulder again, but I was too invested in Noah’s story. So I will be sending the bill for my therapy session to the author. 😂
The writing in this book is so beautiful. The blurb wasn’t lying when it said that the writing was lyrical because, hot damn, it really was! I know it’s not everyone’s preference, but I’ve read so many books where the writing is simple, and that’s great because who doesn’t like simplicity? But, from time to time, I do crave some good, poetic writing that hurts my heart and touches my soul. And this delivered. This is a debut, too! Absolutely amazing.
Gosh, I felt so, so bad for Noah. 😔 Life was just kicking her down, and it didn’t want to stop. I truly wanted to see how she fared at the end of the book, and even though the plot was predictable, it still made me feel the grief and heartache Noah was feeling. I don’t think I disliked any of the characters. Her grandma was a hoot! I absolutely loved her! She reminded me of my beautiful grandma in some ways, which was a reason why I was tearing up so much. 🥹
And that ending?? Stop! I need to take a moment and recoup after that. 😭❤🩹
The only complaint I have is that there isn't as much music as I thought there would be. I thought it would take center stage in most of the story, but Noah’s love for music and her playing her guitar a few times was only mentioned as kind of like an afterthought. It doesn’t bother me much because I now know it isn’t the main focus of the story.
All in all, this was a great book, and I highly recommend it if you are looking for a moving debut with grief and healing arcs, found family vibes, and a character-driven plot. (If you don’t want any spoilers, I’d avoid the content warnings! ☺)
♭ Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own. The book is now available! ♭
❗Content Warnings❗
Some violence, blood, , death, alcoholism, and mentions the loss of a parent.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: No–only mentions kissing and implies sexual intimacy. (🌶.5/5)
ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ♡ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ
ᴺᴼᵂ ᴾᴸᴬᵞᴵᴺᴳ: Eternity by Alex Warren
1:03 ───ㅇ───── 3:09
˗ˏˋʚɞˎˊ˗ Wow, I did not expect this to be so sad! 😭 I had literally tears running down my face because it seemed like Noah could not catch a break, and it was breaking my heart. 💔 Not only that, but the story brought up memories that are hard to think about, and I thought about saving this book for a time when I don’t feel grief looming over my shoulder again, but I was too invested in Noah’s story. So I will be sending the bill for my therapy session to the author. 😂
The writing in this book is so beautiful. The blurb wasn’t lying when it said that the writing was lyrical because, hot damn, it really was! I know it’s not everyone’s preference, but I’ve read so many books where the writing is simple, and that’s great because who doesn’t like simplicity? But, from time to time, I do crave some good, poetic writing that hurts my heart and touches my soul. And this delivered. This is a debut, too! Absolutely amazing.
Gosh, I felt so, so bad for Noah. 😔 Life was just kicking her down, and it didn’t want to stop. I truly wanted to see how she fared at the end of the book, and even though the plot was predictable, it still made me feel the grief and heartache Noah was feeling. I don’t think I disliked any of the characters. Her grandma was a hoot! I absolutely loved her! She reminded me of my beautiful grandma in some ways, which was a reason why I was tearing up so much. 🥹
And that ending?? Stop! I need to take a moment and recoup after that. 😭❤🩹
The only complaint I have is that there isn't as much music as I thought there would be. I thought it would take center stage in most of the story, but Noah’s love for music and her playing her guitar a few times was only mentioned as kind of like an afterthought. It doesn’t bother me much because I now know it isn’t the main focus of the story.
All in all, this was a great book, and I highly recommend it if you are looking for a moving debut with grief and healing arcs, found family vibes, and a character-driven plot. (If you don’t want any spoilers, I’d avoid the content warnings! ☺)
♭ Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own. The book is now available! ♭
❗Content Warnings❗
Some violence, blood, , death, alcoholism, and mentions the loss of a parent.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: No–only mentions kissing and implies sexual intimacy. (🌶.5/5)
February 27, 2026
Made it to about 48% before I gave up. Not a heck of a whole lot was happening. Our narrator, Noah is married to her husband Derek, who seems to have gone off the deep end, drinking and not going to work. Told through then and now chapters, Author has written some beautifully written paragraphs invoking Noah’s deep pain, but that was it until about 45% in. Noah’s loneliness was deafening, but couldn’t carry the weight of the story for me. Even when a big development happened, I couldn’t muster up enough curiosity to keep reading.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC. The above opinions are my own.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC. The above opinions are my own.
February 16, 2026
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sofía Ramírez Castillo for the arc!
The book follows the story of Noah and her relationship with Derek. It starts out rosy, but secrets and problems gradually unravel it.
Unfortunately, it wasn't a book that resonated with me. The story itself is good, but many things were very predictable. Noah didn't resonate with me as a character simply because she seemed to only experience emotions based on who was around her or in front of her. I felt she felt immense pain, especially with certain characters, but that she didn't feel the slightest bit emotionally herself. She always had to be encouraged by others to feel. I expected character development in this book and that, after the misfortunes she'd faced, she'd be able to develop and find herself. But it focused heavily on the people around her and how they pushed her to improve. That's not what I'm looking for in a protagonist. In the sense that it is okay for others to help her, but for me she also has to help herself and pick up the pieces so that I can appreciate the development.
I also had a bit of trouble with the writing. I found it too stilted at times. You can tell how certain sentences are written for effect, and I often felt like I was reading the same sentences you'd find on Tumblr in 2014. It made reading it a little less entertaining.
Overall, it's a nice story, but I don't think it's for me. However, it's still a good introspective read regarding the themes of loss, dementia, and family.
The book follows the story of Noah and her relationship with Derek. It starts out rosy, but secrets and problems gradually unravel it.
Unfortunately, it wasn't a book that resonated with me. The story itself is good, but many things were very predictable. Noah didn't resonate with me as a character simply because she seemed to only experience emotions based on who was around her or in front of her. I felt she felt immense pain, especially with certain characters, but that she didn't feel the slightest bit emotionally herself. She always had to be encouraged by others to feel. I expected character development in this book and that, after the misfortunes she'd faced, she'd be able to develop and find herself. But it focused heavily on the people around her and how they pushed her to improve. That's not what I'm looking for in a protagonist. In the sense that it is okay for others to help her, but for me she also has to help herself and pick up the pieces so that I can appreciate the development.
I also had a bit of trouble with the writing. I found it too stilted at times. You can tell how certain sentences are written for effect, and I often felt like I was reading the same sentences you'd find on Tumblr in 2014. It made reading it a little less entertaining.
Overall, it's a nice story, but I don't think it's for me. However, it's still a good introspective read regarding the themes of loss, dementia, and family.
March 4, 2026
📚Every Step of the Way
✍🏻Sofia Ramirez Castillo
Blurb:
A lyrical, heart-aching debut about the loves we lose, the roots that call us home, and the fragile, breathtaking courage of starting over.
Noah thought she had her future mapped out—with Derek by her side, music in her veins, and a love she believed could survive anything. But when Derek begins to unravel under the weight of secrets and self-destruction, Noah finds herself fighting for someone who’s already slipping out of reach.
When her life, and everything she dreamed of, collapses, she turns to the one person who has always been her her grandmother. In the stillness of that familiar home—surrounded by old photographs, lingering melodies, and gentle wisdom—Noah begins the slow, tender work of piecing herself back together.
But grief has many faces, and healing is rarely simple. As time moves forward and the past refuses to stay buried, Noah must confront heartbreak, identity, and the quiet strength it takes to choose hope when the world feels unrecognizable.
A story of love, loss, and the courage to begin again, Every Step of the Way is a deeply emotional journey about the people who shape us, the memories that haunt us, and the healing we find when we return to where it all began.
Praise for Every Step of the Way
“An absolutely beautiful story... With compelling characters and brilliant twists, this novel is well worth reading. Very highly recommended.”
— Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)
Perfect for readers who
• Emotional, character-driven contemporary fiction
• Grief-and-healing arcs
• Found family and grandmother–granddaughter bonds
• Lyrical writing and slow, hopeful transformation
My Thoughts:
Readers follow Noah as her relationship goes through the highest highs and lowest lows. You’ll laugh with her, love with her and cry ugly tears as she grows into herself.. Life hasn’t always been fair to Noah, but things started to change for her when she met Derek, and she felt like she could endure anything life threw at her. What more could she need when she has her music and a love that makes her life brighter? But as time goes on and Derek changes into a different person under the weight of his secrets, Noah tries to fight for the love that seems to no longer exist within their home. And when everything in her life comes crashing down, Noah turns to her grandmother and begins her healing journey as more grief, heartache, and wonderful surprises
#NetGalley
#Castle&WisdomPress
#SofiaRamirezCastillo
#EveryStepoftheWay
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings: Addiction, Alcoholism, Cursing, Death, Terminal illness, Dementia, Grief, Death of parent, Pregnancy, Injury/Injury detail, Car accident
✍🏻Sofia Ramirez Castillo
Blurb:
A lyrical, heart-aching debut about the loves we lose, the roots that call us home, and the fragile, breathtaking courage of starting over.
Noah thought she had her future mapped out—with Derek by her side, music in her veins, and a love she believed could survive anything. But when Derek begins to unravel under the weight of secrets and self-destruction, Noah finds herself fighting for someone who’s already slipping out of reach.
When her life, and everything she dreamed of, collapses, she turns to the one person who has always been her her grandmother. In the stillness of that familiar home—surrounded by old photographs, lingering melodies, and gentle wisdom—Noah begins the slow, tender work of piecing herself back together.
But grief has many faces, and healing is rarely simple. As time moves forward and the past refuses to stay buried, Noah must confront heartbreak, identity, and the quiet strength it takes to choose hope when the world feels unrecognizable.
A story of love, loss, and the courage to begin again, Every Step of the Way is a deeply emotional journey about the people who shape us, the memories that haunt us, and the healing we find when we return to where it all began.
Praise for Every Step of the Way
“An absolutely beautiful story... With compelling characters and brilliant twists, this novel is well worth reading. Very highly recommended.”
— Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)
Perfect for readers who
• Emotional, character-driven contemporary fiction
• Grief-and-healing arcs
• Found family and grandmother–granddaughter bonds
• Lyrical writing and slow, hopeful transformation
My Thoughts:
Readers follow Noah as her relationship goes through the highest highs and lowest lows. You’ll laugh with her, love with her and cry ugly tears as she grows into herself.. Life hasn’t always been fair to Noah, but things started to change for her when she met Derek, and she felt like she could endure anything life threw at her. What more could she need when she has her music and a love that makes her life brighter? But as time goes on and Derek changes into a different person under the weight of his secrets, Noah tries to fight for the love that seems to no longer exist within their home. And when everything in her life comes crashing down, Noah turns to her grandmother and begins her healing journey as more grief, heartache, and wonderful surprises
#NetGalley
#Castle&WisdomPress
#SofiaRamirezCastillo
#EveryStepoftheWay
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings: Addiction, Alcoholism, Cursing, Death, Terminal illness, Dementia, Grief, Death of parent, Pregnancy, Injury/Injury detail, Car accident
January 16, 2026
It started with a guitar and ended with a guitar.
I finished Every Step of the Way back in December. It was one of the last books I read of 2025. The author, Sofia, reached out to me and asked if I would consider reading it. I checked out her profile and thought “she is so cool”. She told me what it was about and we talked for a little bit. I think I reached out to her again when I was on chapter 9 and just told her what an amazing story this already was. I could not put it down.
Every Step of the Way is Sofia’s debut novel, about loss & grief, re-finding yourself, young lovers, hope, and power of music and memory.
Sofia is one of the sweetest and coolest author I have meet and had the pleasure and interacting with and hopefully continuing a bookish friendship. She is professional wrestler and her Instagram is just so impressive.
I take pride in my bookstagram for my honest reviews. I will never completely put down an author and their work I will always give you my honest review whether I like it or not… with that being said…
Every Step of The Way should be on everyone’s TBR! This book was amazing! It was so beautiful written. You can tell Sofia took her time and wanted this to be perfect. This book flowed perfectly. It went back and forth between “then” & “now”. This book made you feel. Feel what? Literally everything! I laughed, I cried, the ugly cry and the happy cry, I was shocked and sad. I was happy and hopeful. This is the perfect book to reflect on your life and that’s exactly what I did. (Sorry Sofia for spilling my heart out to you)
I will forever recommend this book!! When you need to step away from the dark romances, or fantasy, this book… I think about daily and only one other book has made me feel that way.
THANK YOU SO MUCH SOFIA FOR ALLOWING ME TO READ YOUR STORY AND FOR TRUSTING ME!!
You deserve all the love and success that comes to you!
I finished Every Step of the Way back in December. It was one of the last books I read of 2025. The author, Sofia, reached out to me and asked if I would consider reading it. I checked out her profile and thought “she is so cool”. She told me what it was about and we talked for a little bit. I think I reached out to her again when I was on chapter 9 and just told her what an amazing story this already was. I could not put it down.
Every Step of the Way is Sofia’s debut novel, about loss & grief, re-finding yourself, young lovers, hope, and power of music and memory.
Sofia is one of the sweetest and coolest author I have meet and had the pleasure and interacting with and hopefully continuing a bookish friendship. She is professional wrestler and her Instagram is just so impressive.
I take pride in my bookstagram for my honest reviews. I will never completely put down an author and their work I will always give you my honest review whether I like it or not… with that being said…
Every Step of The Way should be on everyone’s TBR! This book was amazing! It was so beautiful written. You can tell Sofia took her time and wanted this to be perfect. This book flowed perfectly. It went back and forth between “then” & “now”. This book made you feel. Feel what? Literally everything! I laughed, I cried, the ugly cry and the happy cry, I was shocked and sad. I was happy and hopeful. This is the perfect book to reflect on your life and that’s exactly what I did. (Sorry Sofia for spilling my heart out to you)
I will forever recommend this book!! When you need to step away from the dark romances, or fantasy, this book… I think about daily and only one other book has made me feel that way.
THANK YOU SO MUCH SOFIA FOR ALLOWING ME TO READ YOUR STORY AND FOR TRUSTING ME!!
You deserve all the love and success that comes to you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A debut novel that masterfully encapsulates the different stages of grief, self discovery, and serves as reminder that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
It's honestly mind blowing that this is Sofia's debut novel. There are so many themes and conversations that were handled with care, yet its emotional impact, is everlasting. There is no doubt that the love Noah and Derek share is profoundly deep, yet it mirrors the way life and its seasons changes it. From the POV of Noah, we follow her meetcute with Derek and experience how a simple exchange moves her. As we continue on in the story, his demeanor shifts and it can be seen in negative light, however, big stressors leave him broken and there isn't anymore he has to give to fill his cup.
The way Noah's thoughts towards feeling betrayed and left out were potrayed, starts the tension in the book. This shift is where you know something massive is about to happen, yet you cannot pinpoint what its going to be. Because Derek keeps his secrets airtight, when the plot implodes- you're left reeling and just as emotionally severed as Noah. As you're about to either throw your book at the wall or possibly break your kindle, grandma Nadia enters the chat. This relationship is what weaves the upcoming healing and stitches up the parts of Noah she thought she didn't have.
So many tears were shed and although my heart was broken, the payoff of this story is completely worth it. This is a must read and whole heartedly, you don't wanna miss out on what Every Step of the Way has to offer. The characters are real and raw and even after you've closed the book, they stay with you long after.
Thank you Sofia, for allowing me the pleasure of reading your book when it was just a passion project. Your growth and love for this story and its characters has been amazing to watch from the sidelines. I truly cannot wait to witness the next chapter in your author journey.
It's honestly mind blowing that this is Sofia's debut novel. There are so many themes and conversations that were handled with care, yet its emotional impact, is everlasting. There is no doubt that the love Noah and Derek share is profoundly deep, yet it mirrors the way life and its seasons changes it. From the POV of Noah, we follow her meetcute with Derek and experience how a simple exchange moves her. As we continue on in the story, his demeanor shifts and it can be seen in negative light, however, big stressors leave him broken and there isn't anymore he has to give to fill his cup.
The way Noah's thoughts towards feeling betrayed and left out were potrayed, starts the tension in the book. This shift is where you know something massive is about to happen, yet you cannot pinpoint what its going to be. Because Derek keeps his secrets airtight, when the plot implodes- you're left reeling and just as emotionally severed as Noah. As you're about to either throw your book at the wall or possibly break your kindle, grandma Nadia enters the chat. This relationship is what weaves the upcoming healing and stitches up the parts of Noah she thought she didn't have.
So many tears were shed and although my heart was broken, the payoff of this story is completely worth it. This is a must read and whole heartedly, you don't wanna miss out on what Every Step of the Way has to offer. The characters are real and raw and even after you've closed the book, they stay with you long after.
Thank you Sofia, for allowing me the pleasure of reading your book when it was just a passion project. Your growth and love for this story and its characters has been amazing to watch from the sidelines. I truly cannot wait to witness the next chapter in your author journey.
March 5, 2026
Every Step of the Way is a lyrical and emotionally immersive debut that traces the fragile terrain between heartbreak and renewal. Sofía Ramírez Castillo crafts a story that lingers in the quiet spaces of grief, exploring how love can both anchor and undo us.
Noah’s journey begins with a future she believes is secure, rooted in music and a relationship she trusts will endure. When Derek begins to unravel beneath hidden burdens, the novel shifts into a poignant meditation on loving someone who is slipping beyond reach. The emotional tension feels raw yet restrained, allowing readers to experience the ache without melodrama.
The return to her grandmother’s home introduces a grounding tenderness. Surrounded by memory, melody, and generational wisdom, Noah begins the delicate process of reclaiming herself. The grandmother–granddaughter bond becomes the emotional spine of the narrative, offering warmth against the chill of loss.
At 298 pages, the novel moves with deliberate pacing, honoring the slow and nonlinear nature of healing. Themes of identity, belonging, and the courage to begin again are woven through lyrical prose that balances sorrow with hope.
This is a compelling read for those who appreciate character driven contemporary fiction centered on grief, transformation, and the quiet resilience required to move forward.
Noah’s journey begins with a future she believes is secure, rooted in music and a relationship she trusts will endure. When Derek begins to unravel beneath hidden burdens, the novel shifts into a poignant meditation on loving someone who is slipping beyond reach. The emotional tension feels raw yet restrained, allowing readers to experience the ache without melodrama.
The return to her grandmother’s home introduces a grounding tenderness. Surrounded by memory, melody, and generational wisdom, Noah begins the delicate process of reclaiming herself. The grandmother–granddaughter bond becomes the emotional spine of the narrative, offering warmth against the chill of loss.
At 298 pages, the novel moves with deliberate pacing, honoring the slow and nonlinear nature of healing. Themes of identity, belonging, and the courage to begin again are woven through lyrical prose that balances sorrow with hope.
This is a compelling read for those who appreciate character driven contemporary fiction centered on grief, transformation, and the quiet resilience required to move forward.
February 23, 2026
Definitely a Kleenex-in-hand kind of read as this story will break your heart in the best way. The emotional depth touches on love, grief, addiction, and mental health in a way that feels real. I liked that the story is told from Noah’s perspective, and the way the author moves between then and now kept me fully invested in her journey.
I do wish there had been a bit more insight into Derek’s life. There were moments where I felt some pieces of his story were missing, and I wanted to better understand his pain and how it shaped Noah’s experience.
What stood out most to me, though, was Noah’s relationship with her grandmother. She’s strong, feisty, and full of love. She is a character that stays with you long after the last page. Her presence brings so much hope, laughter and grounding to the story.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Sofia Ramirez Castillo for letting me read this book!
I do wish there had been a bit more insight into Derek’s life. There were moments where I felt some pieces of his story were missing, and I wanted to better understand his pain and how it shaped Noah’s experience.
What stood out most to me, though, was Noah’s relationship with her grandmother. She’s strong, feisty, and full of love. She is a character that stays with you long after the last page. Her presence brings so much hope, laughter and grounding to the story.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Sofia Ramirez Castillo for letting me read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Every Step We Take by Sofia Ramirez Castillo is one of those rare novels that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
The writing is intimate and deeply moving I didn’t just read this story, I lived it alongside the characters. I felt the love, the grief, and every fragile, beautifully written moment in between.
Noah’s pain became my own. Her grief felt personal. And her journey toward healing and acceptance unfolded in a way that was both tender and profund. This is the kind of book that stays with you.
If you’re someone who loves an emotional rollercoaster filled with heartbreak, resilience, and hope and especially if you love a powerful grandmother bond this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
Please pick this up. You won’t be disappointed.
The writing is intimate and deeply moving I didn’t just read this story, I lived it alongside the characters. I felt the love, the grief, and every fragile, beautifully written moment in between.
Noah’s pain became my own. Her grief felt personal. And her journey toward healing and acceptance unfolded in a way that was both tender and profund. This is the kind of book that stays with you.
If you’re someone who loves an emotional rollercoaster filled with heartbreak, resilience, and hope and especially if you love a powerful grandmother bond this one deserves a spot on your shelf.
Please pick this up. You won’t be disappointed.
March 3, 2026
A poetic, heart-wrenching masterpiece that extracts profound beauty from the heaviest of subjects. Be warned: this one will wreck you in the best way possible.
Readers follow Noah as her relationship goes through the highest highs and lowest lows. You’ll laugh with her, love with her and cry ugly tears as she grows into herself.
The author’s writing is truly poetic. They weave a beautiful narrative out of difficult subject matter that, in lesser hands, could have felt overly depressing.
The heavy themes may be a trigger for some, as the emotional weight is consistent throughout the story.
This is a must-read if you like books that break your heart into a million pieces. Pick this one up if you loved The Bright Years.
Readers follow Noah as her relationship goes through the highest highs and lowest lows. You’ll laugh with her, love with her and cry ugly tears as she grows into herself.
The author’s writing is truly poetic. They weave a beautiful narrative out of difficult subject matter that, in lesser hands, could have felt overly depressing.
The heavy themes may be a trigger for some, as the emotional weight is consistent throughout the story.
This is a must-read if you like books that break your heart into a million pieces. Pick this one up if you loved The Bright Years.
February 23, 2026
Every Step of the Way by Sofia Ramirez Castillo is such a heartbreaker in the best way 😭💔. Grab the tissues, because this one hits deep—love, grief, addiction, and mental health all woven together so realistically.
Told from Noah’s POV, the story moves between past and present, keeping you fully invested in the journey. I laughed, I cried, I ugly-cry-laughed… and I loved every second of it 💛.
If you’re ready for a story that makes you feel everything and isn’t afraid to be real, this is a must-read.
Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this ARC!
Told from Noah’s POV, the story moves between past and present, keeping you fully invested in the journey. I laughed, I cried, I ugly-cry-laughed… and I loved every second of it 💛.
If you’re ready for a story that makes you feel everything and isn’t afraid to be real, this is a must-read.
Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this ARC!
March 1, 2026
If you are ready to ride an emotional rollercoaster this is the book for you. The main character Noah embarks on an angst filled journey of self discovery that leads you down a path of love, grief, fear, anger, and joy. Central to the story is the relationship Noah shares with her sassy, loveable, dementia ridden grandmother. I truly loved the warmth and honest dialogue these characters shared. This is a debut novel for the author and I look forward to her future books. She has a true gift for writing from the heart.
#EveryStepoftheWay #NetGalley
#EveryStepoftheWay #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed reading this book. It is one of those books that hits you on a deep emotional level. The writing feels intentional and deeply cared for, and the shifts between past and present are seamless. It’s a story that makes you pause for a moment and look at your own life a little differently. Thumbs up from me!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
OMG, this book was truly heartbreaking, something completely different from other books that always have a happy ending. I cried so much in this book, but I still managed to laugh every now and then. At first, I found the writing style a bit difficult to read, but once I'd read the first book, it made a lot of sense. This book really made an impression on me, and wow!
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