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Every Single Choice
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 1, 2026
I received an advance copy from the author of Every Single Choice (thank you!), and it marks my return to reading romance novels after a long hiatus away.
I always appreciate when romance novels offer commentary on important topics, and this one allowed readers to explore several topics through pretty wildly different perspectives. The writing of the chemistry between characters is strong and believable, and Cate Crane keeps readers on her feet, guessing which of the two male characters Ellie is going to wind up with (I certainly knew who I was cheering for…). While I think I personally still need a break from the romance genre at the moment, I will look forward to the next novel from Cate Crane!
I always appreciate when romance novels offer commentary on important topics, and this one allowed readers to explore several topics through pretty wildly different perspectives. The writing of the chemistry between characters is strong and believable, and Cate Crane keeps readers on her feet, guessing which of the two male characters Ellie is going to wind up with (I certainly knew who I was cheering for…). While I think I personally still need a break from the romance genre at the moment, I will look forward to the next novel from Cate Crane!
April 24, 2026
I received an advance copy from the author.
For clarification, a five star review means I would read it every day if I could, a four star is amazing and I want to read it again, 3 star is good/great. Goodreads does not allow for half stars but this would be a 3.75 if they did, the only reason not a 4 is because I don’t think I’d read it again.
This was an emotional and heavy read. It was very intriguing and thought provoking and while I may have been able to predict a couple plot points nothing about it was completely clear.
I like that throughout the book, though particularly at the end, it circles back to how ‘every single choice’ we make affects our life. For better or worse it all makes up who we are and will be and it’s a beautiful if haunting idea.
Ellie. Oh Ellie. I think her character was written beautifully with her being intertwined with grief and loss and the consequences of her choices.
Rowan. I really really wanted to hate him sometimes. Most of the time. He was so unflinching in his thoughts and beliefs about her choices and so self centered in that. I loved how when Art died he criticized the aspects of Art that he embodied, and that Nancy called him out on.
Connor. Connor felt so real and vivid. When the author and Ellie described him as safe I felt that. I felt the security and safety he represented. I also loved the part where Ellie talks about how they chose each other every day. The love with Connor and her felt more mature and I loved that she recognized that and used June’s description of choosing in love (the way she and Art did) with Connor.
The ending. I was absolutely not expecting Ellie to die. When she and Rowan had sex I had an inkling she would be pregnant. When she and Connor fell in love I feel like I knew. But through all that I didn’t even consider her dying. While I think that Rowan and Connor getting along was bittersweet, I was a little annoyed because they couldn’t have been mature before her death could they.
I feel like this book took me on a roller coaster of emotions but in an exhausting, good, cry-inducing way. This is a book you say, ‘I loved this, it ripped my soul out, read it’ to your friends.
For clarification, a five star review means I would read it every day if I could, a four star is amazing and I want to read it again, 3 star is good/great. Goodreads does not allow for half stars but this would be a 3.75 if they did, the only reason not a 4 is because I don’t think I’d read it again.
This was an emotional and heavy read. It was very intriguing and thought provoking and while I may have been able to predict a couple plot points nothing about it was completely clear.
I like that throughout the book, though particularly at the end, it circles back to how ‘every single choice’ we make affects our life. For better or worse it all makes up who we are and will be and it’s a beautiful if haunting idea.
Ellie. Oh Ellie. I think her character was written beautifully with her being intertwined with grief and loss and the consequences of her choices.
Rowan. I really really wanted to hate him sometimes. Most of the time. He was so unflinching in his thoughts and beliefs about her choices and so self centered in that. I loved how when Art died he criticized the aspects of Art that he embodied, and that Nancy called him out on.
Connor. Connor felt so real and vivid. When the author and Ellie described him as safe I felt that. I felt the security and safety he represented. I also loved the part where Ellie talks about how they chose each other every day. The love with Connor and her felt more mature and I loved that she recognized that and used June’s description of choosing in love (the way she and Art did) with Connor.
The ending. I was absolutely not expecting Ellie to die. When she and Rowan had sex I had an inkling she would be pregnant. When she and Connor fell in love I feel like I knew. But through all that I didn’t even consider her dying. While I think that Rowan and Connor getting along was bittersweet, I was a little annoyed because they couldn’t have been mature before her death could they.
I feel like this book took me on a roller coaster of emotions but in an exhausting, good, cry-inducing way. This is a book you say, ‘I loved this, it ripped my soul out, read it’ to your friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2026
*spoiler-free review*
This is THE book of the summer for me, and couldn’t have come at a better time. Cate Crane’s debut novel reads as if she’s been writing novels for years and years, which she has! The fact that she has released her work to the public now only goes to show how important it is to share your gift. Words cannot describe how beautiful of a brush she painted with when she brought these characters to life. I can see Willowbrook clearly in my mind - there’s something altogether new yet nostalgic to the whole feel of the town. Cate brings to life every tree, every lake view, every grain of sand with a heart drawn into it with a careful hand.
Ellie’s heartbreaking experiences - the love, the tragedies, the complexities, all create this gorgeous mosaic representing what it means to open your heart back up again after ten years; bringing in all the joy along with the pain. The overall message of the book, to me, is that a life with a closed-off heart, while an easier path to take, is not a life that puts you in the way of beauty.
And BOY does Cate put you in the way of beauty. The way I rooted for, and yes, at times, agonized over the choices Connor, Rowan, and Ellie make throughout the book kept me constantly on my toes ; sometimes causing me to pace back and forth in my own home. I cried for her when she ran from her past, I cheered for her when she sprinted towards it at full speed. The result was something so entirely approachable and human. We all make mistakes in love and in life; what we do with the broken pieces is up to us.
Thank you for taking Ellie’s broken pieces and making a kaleidoscope of stained glass with it that we all get to look through as an audience. I can’t wait to see what Cate writes next. If this is just the beginning? Consider me a lifelong fan as a reader! Absolutely gorgeous work!! You just have to see for yourself.
This is THE book of the summer for me, and couldn’t have come at a better time. Cate Crane’s debut novel reads as if she’s been writing novels for years and years, which she has! The fact that she has released her work to the public now only goes to show how important it is to share your gift. Words cannot describe how beautiful of a brush she painted with when she brought these characters to life. I can see Willowbrook clearly in my mind - there’s something altogether new yet nostalgic to the whole feel of the town. Cate brings to life every tree, every lake view, every grain of sand with a heart drawn into it with a careful hand.
Ellie’s heartbreaking experiences - the love, the tragedies, the complexities, all create this gorgeous mosaic representing what it means to open your heart back up again after ten years; bringing in all the joy along with the pain. The overall message of the book, to me, is that a life with a closed-off heart, while an easier path to take, is not a life that puts you in the way of beauty.
And BOY does Cate put you in the way of beauty. The way I rooted for, and yes, at times, agonized over the choices Connor, Rowan, and Ellie make throughout the book kept me constantly on my toes ; sometimes causing me to pace back and forth in my own home. I cried for her when she ran from her past, I cheered for her when she sprinted towards it at full speed. The result was something so entirely approachable and human. We all make mistakes in love and in life; what we do with the broken pieces is up to us.
Thank you for taking Ellie’s broken pieces and making a kaleidoscope of stained glass with it that we all get to look through as an audience. I can’t wait to see what Cate writes next. If this is just the beginning? Consider me a lifelong fan as a reader! Absolutely gorgeous work!! You just have to see for yourself.
Review of advance copy
It has been 2 weeks since I put this book down and I am STILL thinking about it! A compelling debut that hooks you immediately and leaves a lasting impression.
The story follows globe-trotting travel writer Ellie as she returns to her small hometown, where she’s forced to quietly reckon with choices she made long ago—decisions that didn’t just shape her life, but the lives of those closest to her.
At its core, this book explores the idea that every person makes hundreds of decisions every day—and each one has the potential to shift the direction of their life. The question becomes: when a choice changes the trajectory of your life, and the lives of others, can you ever know if it was the right choice? Is forgiveness required, from your own self, or others? That emotional tension is what gives the narrative its weight.
Within that framework, the characters are where the story truly comes to life. Some are beautifully developed—multi-dimensional, evolving, and deeply human—while others feel more static, almost like snapshots that don’t fully change. And isn't that similar to real life? The setting of the book too is described so beautifully that I feel I've been to this little town, and met some of the people in it. The setting, the characters, the situations all combine to captivate the reader. I couldn't put this down.
There were moments where I found myself wanting a bit more clarity around how certain choices played out but that said, this section ultimately serves a larger purpose as the story unfolds. It's such a well crafted story that every choice the author made led to its beautiful conclusion.
And it’s absolutely worth staying with because the final quarter of the book shifts in a powerful way—the characters deepen, the emotional stakes rise, and the story builds to a conclusion that is both surprising and satisfying. It’s a strong finish that elevates the entire reading experience.
Overall:
A thoughtful and engaging read that may leave you reflecting on your own past decisions—and how you’ve learned to live with them.
The story follows globe-trotting travel writer Ellie as she returns to her small hometown, where she’s forced to quietly reckon with choices she made long ago—decisions that didn’t just shape her life, but the lives of those closest to her.
At its core, this book explores the idea that every person makes hundreds of decisions every day—and each one has the potential to shift the direction of their life. The question becomes: when a choice changes the trajectory of your life, and the lives of others, can you ever know if it was the right choice? Is forgiveness required, from your own self, or others? That emotional tension is what gives the narrative its weight.
Within that framework, the characters are where the story truly comes to life. Some are beautifully developed—multi-dimensional, evolving, and deeply human—while others feel more static, almost like snapshots that don’t fully change. And isn't that similar to real life? The setting of the book too is described so beautifully that I feel I've been to this little town, and met some of the people in it. The setting, the characters, the situations all combine to captivate the reader. I couldn't put this down.
There were moments where I found myself wanting a bit more clarity around how certain choices played out but that said, this section ultimately serves a larger purpose as the story unfolds. It's such a well crafted story that every choice the author made led to its beautiful conclusion.
And it’s absolutely worth staying with because the final quarter of the book shifts in a powerful way—the characters deepen, the emotional stakes rise, and the story builds to a conclusion that is both surprising and satisfying. It’s a strong finish that elevates the entire reading experience.
Overall:
A thoughtful and engaging read that may leave you reflecting on your own past decisions—and how you’ve learned to live with them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Be prepared for a roller coaster of emotions! From the first few pages, I was pulled in and needed to know more. As someone who grew up in the real "Willowbrook", so much of the setting was warm and nostalgic for me. Cate brought me back to my own childhood and it was every bit as magical to read now as it was to experience it then. The characters were unique but also familiar to me in many ways. I absolutely loved the characters of Connor, Nancy, and June.
As someone who has known grief deeply, I think Cate did an incredible job of capturing the intricacies and realities of living with it. While I did not always like or agree with Ellie, Rowan, and Arthur, I could also understand their pain and how complicated their feelings were.
I liked the way that the concept of choices was weaved throughout the book. Every choice has a consequence, good or bad, and we have to live with those consequences. Even though it broke my heart, I think Cate did an amazing job of showing both forgiveness and that sometimes there are hurts that cannot be moved past. I got angry at multiple characters for refusing to move past their anger and grief because I felt for Ellie and knew her motives were good, but I also understood how life-changing her decisions were for both herself and those she loved.
As I approached the end of the book, I was devastated with choices that each main character made, along with a heartbreaking event, and wondered how the ending could possibly satisfy me. However, Cate's choices for two of the characters ended up being, in my opinion, absolutely beautiful.
As someone who has known grief deeply, I think Cate did an incredible job of capturing the intricacies and realities of living with it. While I did not always like or agree with Ellie, Rowan, and Arthur, I could also understand their pain and how complicated their feelings were.
I liked the way that the concept of choices was weaved throughout the book. Every choice has a consequence, good or bad, and we have to live with those consequences. Even though it broke my heart, I think Cate did an amazing job of showing both forgiveness and that sometimes there are hurts that cannot be moved past. I got angry at multiple characters for refusing to move past their anger and grief because I felt for Ellie and knew her motives were good, but I also understood how life-changing her decisions were for both herself and those she loved.
As I approached the end of the book, I was devastated with choices that each main character made, along with a heartbreaking event, and wondered how the ending could possibly satisfy me. However, Cate's choices for two of the characters ended up being, in my opinion, absolutely beautiful.
May 18, 2026
I have a complicated relationship with books about people going home after running away because done badly they feel predictable and done well they absolutely destroy me. this one destroyed me.
I found this on a thursday evening and finished it friday night which for someone with my current schedule is basically unheard of. i just could not put it down.
ellie is not an easy protagonist to be inside. she is someone who made real choices that hurt real people and she knows it and she has spent ten years building a life specifically designed to avoid having to reckon with any of it. the travel writer thing is not accidental crane is very deliberate about giving ellie a life that keeps her permanently in motion. no roots. no stillness. no time to sit with what she left behind.
and then her sister calls and the stillness arrives anyway.
the two men she left in the wreckage of her past are both written with enough specificity and enough genuine feeling that i understood why she loved both of them and why leaving felt like the only option at the time and why coming back makes that logic impossible to hold onto.
rowan broke my heart quietly. connor broke it loudly. that is all i will say.
what stayed with me most is how crane writes about the particular kind of shame that comes not from doing something terrible but from consistently choosing yourself over everyone who needed you. ellie is not a villain. she is just someone who ran and ran and ran and finally ran out of road.
the ending is right. that is all i want to say. it is just right.
I found this on a thursday evening and finished it friday night which for someone with my current schedule is basically unheard of. i just could not put it down.
ellie is not an easy protagonist to be inside. she is someone who made real choices that hurt real people and she knows it and she has spent ten years building a life specifically designed to avoid having to reckon with any of it. the travel writer thing is not accidental crane is very deliberate about giving ellie a life that keeps her permanently in motion. no roots. no stillness. no time to sit with what she left behind.
and then her sister calls and the stillness arrives anyway.
the two men she left in the wreckage of her past are both written with enough specificity and enough genuine feeling that i understood why she loved both of them and why leaving felt like the only option at the time and why coming back makes that logic impossible to hold onto.
rowan broke my heart quietly. connor broke it loudly. that is all i will say.
what stayed with me most is how crane writes about the particular kind of shame that comes not from doing something terrible but from consistently choosing yourself over everyone who needed you. ellie is not a villain. she is just someone who ran and ran and ran and finally ran out of road.
the ending is right. that is all i want to say. it is just right.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every Single Choice was angsty, raw, and emotional. Cate has a talent for expressing emotions of her characters. Her writing style flows and is easy to read. I am usually not a reader of romance; there were a few sections that incited a visceral response from me, well done!
Ellie and Rowan are messy characters. Cate does a wonderful job of showing the reader, from the characters point of view just how complicated their feelings are. Ellie is the kind of character you just want to grow up, I dont know how many times I rolled my eyes about her wallowing in despair instead of owning up to her choices and moving on to do better. She is very immature. Rowan is maddening because he can't seem to make up his own mind, and is just holding on to feelings he would be better served to let go. They both would benefit from therapy!
Ellie and Rowan are both incredibly stubborn and are perfect for each other. Cate does an awesome job portraying their thoughts and feelings throughout the novel. I would have loved to have seen more from Connor's point of view, but Cate does a great job of making you want to root for both guys, full well knowing only one gets the girl.
The end was emotion provoking and highlights the importance of forgiveness for yourself and others. It also highlights how precious time is, and that you shouldn't spend years suppressing your feelings.
I cant wait to see what she comes up with next!
Ellie and Rowan are messy characters. Cate does a wonderful job of showing the reader, from the characters point of view just how complicated their feelings are. Ellie is the kind of character you just want to grow up, I dont know how many times I rolled my eyes about her wallowing in despair instead of owning up to her choices and moving on to do better. She is very immature. Rowan is maddening because he can't seem to make up his own mind, and is just holding on to feelings he would be better served to let go. They both would benefit from therapy!
Ellie and Rowan are both incredibly stubborn and are perfect for each other. Cate does an awesome job portraying their thoughts and feelings throughout the novel. I would have loved to have seen more from Connor's point of view, but Cate does a great job of making you want to root for both guys, full well knowing only one gets the girl.
The end was emotion provoking and highlights the importance of forgiveness for yourself and others. It also highlights how precious time is, and that you shouldn't spend years suppressing your feelings.
I cant wait to see what she comes up with next!
May 9, 2026
I received an advanced copy from the author.
My reading scale is a five. I must own it and will reread it, for loved it and will recommend it and three I’m glad I read it. Goodreads does not allow scoring other than whole numbers, but I would give this a 3.5.
I enjoyed this book a great deal. I could relate to Ellie having helped take care of my grandmother while she was losing her memory and grandfather going through his final court work cancer. I did get annoyed a few times because I felt like Ellie went back-and-forth between Connor and Rowan a bit too easily and quickly. However, I understand that she truly loved them both.
I was frustrated with Rowan and the father because of the fact that they couldn’t forgive her. Ten years is a long time to not learn to get over something that was out of your own control and to at least listen to someone and her their rationale.
It was a bit predictable that she would get pregnant with Rowan‘s baby, especially after she got together with Connor and was so happy with him. I do feel like her death was rushed and did not necessarily need to happen. That seemed to come out of nowhere for me, and I was annoyed by it.
In general, the book is beautifully written and coming from New England myself I could picture the setting, and because of my own personal experience I could relate to the circumstances Ellie was going through with her parents.
I would totally recommend this book.
My reading scale is a five. I must own it and will reread it, for loved it and will recommend it and three I’m glad I read it. Goodreads does not allow scoring other than whole numbers, but I would give this a 3.5.
I enjoyed this book a great deal. I could relate to Ellie having helped take care of my grandmother while she was losing her memory and grandfather going through his final court work cancer. I did get annoyed a few times because I felt like Ellie went back-and-forth between Connor and Rowan a bit too easily and quickly. However, I understand that she truly loved them both.
I was frustrated with Rowan and the father because of the fact that they couldn’t forgive her. Ten years is a long time to not learn to get over something that was out of your own control and to at least listen to someone and her their rationale.
It was a bit predictable that she would get pregnant with Rowan‘s baby, especially after she got together with Connor and was so happy with him. I do feel like her death was rushed and did not necessarily need to happen. That seemed to come out of nowhere for me, and I was annoyed by it.
In general, the book is beautifully written and coming from New England myself I could picture the setting, and because of my own personal experience I could relate to the circumstances Ellie was going through with her parents.
I would totally recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a truly special and deeply relatable book. The author’s writing is vivid and immersive. I felt pulled into the story from the very first page and found myself visualizing each scene as it unfolded. I finished it in just a few days because I was completely hooked.
What stood out most were the themes woven throughout the story. It explores so many aspects of the human experience with honesty and nuance: love and heartbreak, family dynamics, the weight of the past, and the challenge of moving forward. The characters grapple with assumptions about what others are thinking or feeling, the difficulty of forgiveness (both of others and ourselves), and the quiet realization that we are deserving of love.
There’s also a strong thread around how our childhood shapes us, how “home” stays with us, and how often we wait too long to reconnect with the people who matter most. I appreciated the way the story highlights the importance of being called out with care, and the reminder that we’re often far more critical of ourselves than others are of us.
At its core, this book is about growth, self-awareness, and learning to live more authentically.
I’m very much looking forward to the author’s next book.
What stood out most were the themes woven throughout the story. It explores so many aspects of the human experience with honesty and nuance: love and heartbreak, family dynamics, the weight of the past, and the challenge of moving forward. The characters grapple with assumptions about what others are thinking or feeling, the difficulty of forgiveness (both of others and ourselves), and the quiet realization that we are deserving of love.
There’s also a strong thread around how our childhood shapes us, how “home” stays with us, and how often we wait too long to reconnect with the people who matter most. I appreciated the way the story highlights the importance of being called out with care, and the reminder that we’re often far more critical of ourselves than others are of us.
At its core, this book is about growth, self-awareness, and learning to live more authentically.
I’m very much looking forward to the author’s next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every Single Choice by Cate Crane is an absolute must-read, especially for anyone who appreciates emotionally rich storytelling set in a close-knit, small-town atmosphere. From the very beginning, the author brings a quintessential small town to life, making it feel both familiar and deeply personal.
What truly stood out was how real the characters and their struggles felt. The story dives into genuine, everyday problems, but presents them in such a powerful way that you feel completely immersed in the emotional journey. At times, it felt as though I was experiencing everything right alongside the characters—their pain, their growth, and their moments of hope.
The writing is beautifully descriptive, painting vivid scenes that make you feel like you’re right there in the story. I found it nearly impossible to put the book down, constantly wanting to know what would happen next, making it both heartwarming and deeply moving. Layers of depth and surprise are woven throughout the story, keeping you entangled in the lives of each character.
Every Single Choice is a compelling, emotional read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a story that truly resonates.
What truly stood out was how real the characters and their struggles felt. The story dives into genuine, everyday problems, but presents them in such a powerful way that you feel completely immersed in the emotional journey. At times, it felt as though I was experiencing everything right alongside the characters—their pain, their growth, and their moments of hope.
The writing is beautifully descriptive, painting vivid scenes that make you feel like you’re right there in the story. I found it nearly impossible to put the book down, constantly wanting to know what would happen next, making it both heartwarming and deeply moving. Layers of depth and surprise are woven throughout the story, keeping you entangled in the lives of each character.
Every Single Choice is a compelling, emotional read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a story that truly resonates.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the chance to read this book ahead of its release, and it completely drew me in from the start. Ellie’s storyline is especially captivating. Her journey feels both intimate and expansive, while unfolding in a way that keeps you invested without ever feeling predictable. The romance stands out in a crowded genre because it moves beyond the typical love triangle trope and offers something more nuanced and emotionally resonant. There is a freshness to the storytelling that makes the entire experience feel genuinely original.
What impressed me most was the depth of the characters and the author’s restraint in revealing it. Cate has a sharp instinct for when to peel back another layer, allowing each character’s story to emerge at just the right moment. It creates a sense of balance that keeps the narrative engaging without overwhelming it.
Readers who love a cozy small town romance from authors like Carly Fortune, Ashley Poston, or Abby Jimenez will feel right at home here, especially if they are open to a contemporary romance that pushes the genre in new and unexpected directions.
I can't wait to see more from Cate!
What impressed me most was the depth of the characters and the author’s restraint in revealing it. Cate has a sharp instinct for when to peel back another layer, allowing each character’s story to emerge at just the right moment. It creates a sense of balance that keeps the narrative engaging without overwhelming it.
Readers who love a cozy small town romance from authors like Carly Fortune, Ashley Poston, or Abby Jimenez will feel right at home here, especially if they are open to a contemporary romance that pushes the genre in new and unexpected directions.
I can't wait to see more from Cate!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every Single Choice by Cate Crane is a masterpiece. Not only will this book make you swoon and fall in love over and over again, but it will rip your heart out of your chest and make you feel heartbreak and grief. For sure bring tissues when you read this, but I couldn’t recommend this book enough.
I think every woman will be able to relate to Ellie Towle, and everyone will feel alongside her. Rowan and Connor are both masterfully written MMCs that were impossible NOT to fall in love with. They’re both just too damn hot. If you grew up in a small town or had a small town feel, you’ll understand the dynamics of Willowbrook and it’ll transport you back to that time.
I love this book so much. I’ve read it twice, and will read it over and over again. It’ll stick with me (and probably will you) forever.
I think every woman will be able to relate to Ellie Towle, and everyone will feel alongside her. Rowan and Connor are both masterfully written MMCs that were impossible NOT to fall in love with. They’re both just too damn hot. If you grew up in a small town or had a small town feel, you’ll understand the dynamics of Willowbrook and it’ll transport you back to that time.
I love this book so much. I’ve read it twice, and will read it over and over again. It’ll stick with me (and probably will you) forever.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every Single Choice completely swept me away in a way I wasn’t expecting and I am still thinking about it. From the very beginning, I was hooked. The small-town setting felt so real and nostalgic. There was something so comforting and familiar about Willowbrook, and the way it was written made it feel like a place I had actually been to, not just imagined. What truly stood out to me was how immersive the writing was. Every scene felt vivid and intentional. The book wasn’t afraid to go deep either- Cate touched a number of heavy topics with such grace and respect for the characters. Nothing felt rushed or glossed over, and I really appreciated how thoughtfully those storylines were developed. Overall, this book was emotional, beautifully written, and so special—I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My FIRST ARC review and I couldn’t be more excited to share this with you! Cate Crane will have you feeling all the emotions in Every Single Choice. Reading this book, I felt as if I was there, living the story right beside Ellie — Cate Crane did an amazing job with imagery so you could truly imagine everything as it happened. Make sure you have a box of tissues near by, because you miiiiight just need them while reading this book!
Summary:
Ellie returns to her hometown in New Hampshire for the first time after 10 years — When she returns she’s still feeling the wrath of choices made 10 years before while trying to uncover who Ellie is, who she is meant to be. Her visit to her hometown isn’t without challenges — Taking care of her ill parents and running into not one, but TWO significant people from her past.
Summary:
Ellie returns to her hometown in New Hampshire for the first time after 10 years — When she returns she’s still feeling the wrath of choices made 10 years before while trying to uncover who Ellie is, who she is meant to be. Her visit to her hometown isn’t without challenges — Taking care of her ill parents and running into not one, but TWO significant people from her past.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cate Crane has placed the literary world on notice. She's arrived, and she's the real deal.
Every Single Choice is a fantastic novel, not just a good read, but a genuine piece of American literature with a bit of spice. Romance isn't my usual genre, but I got attached to the characters almost immediately. The small-town New Hampshire setting creates a vivid backdrop for complex relationships and Crane's insight into the human condition feels earned and authentic. The story moves at a confident pace, the dialogue stays fresh, and the emotional stakes never let up.
What lingers after the last page isn't just the romance, it's the honesty. She writes people the way people actually are: messy, funny, and trying. And just when you think you know where she's taking you, she doesn't. The ending is a genuine gut-punch.
What a debut! I can't wait for the next one.
Every Single Choice is a fantastic novel, not just a good read, but a genuine piece of American literature with a bit of spice. Romance isn't my usual genre, but I got attached to the characters almost immediately. The small-town New Hampshire setting creates a vivid backdrop for complex relationships and Crane's insight into the human condition feels earned and authentic. The story moves at a confident pace, the dialogue stays fresh, and the emotional stakes never let up.
What lingers after the last page isn't just the romance, it's the honesty. She writes people the way people actually are: messy, funny, and trying. And just when you think you know where she's taking you, she doesn't. The ending is a genuine gut-punch.
What a debut! I can't wait for the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow… just WOW. This book needs to be at the top of your summer reading list!!! Cate Crane’s debut novel is my favorite book this year— she truly captivated me from the start. This contemporary romance will have you feeling ALL of the feelings as you alternate between two distinct perspectives of main characters Ellie & Rowan. Estranged from her hometown of Willowbrook, Ellie returns 10 years later to care for her ailing parents. As you begin to unravel the choices that created the strained relationships that exist today— it feels deeply relatable, instead of corny + predictable. I had the pleasure of growing up in the town that Willowbrook was fictionalized from. Every time I opened up this book, I felt like I was truly at home because the author captured the essence of the town and people so well. But for sure keep tissues close!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
An incredible debut novel for Cate Crane. This book starts off as your typical tortured love, will-they-wont-they plot but continues to keep you on your toes throughout reading. The main character, Ellie, has a deep secret that has prevented her from coming home or speaking to her family for 10 years. But when her parents take a turn she is called to return home and pick up the pieces of her past. She must confront the ones she loves in order to make things right and heal from the choices of her past. It’s an incredible story filled with heart-wrenching moments, difficult decisions, and a healthy amount of smut. This was one of those books that will stay with you long after reading and I wish I could give it more than 5 stars. A MUST READ!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every Single Choice lures you in like a beach read at first. Easy to get into, moves quick, nothing that screams “this is going to wreck you.”
But it sneaks up on you. The emotional side builds without being over the top, and by the time you realize what it’s actually doing, you’re incorrectly predicting what’s going to happen next.
Then the ending hits, and it’s one of those twists you genuinely don’t see coming. It just… lands. Painfully. The kind where you sit there for a second like, “wait, what?”
I was mad at Cate Crane for pulling that off—but that’s kind of the point.
I loved this book and couldn’t put it down. I’ll be reading what she puts out next.
But it sneaks up on you. The emotional side builds without being over the top, and by the time you realize what it’s actually doing, you’re incorrectly predicting what’s going to happen next.
Then the ending hits, and it’s one of those twists you genuinely don’t see coming. It just… lands. Painfully. The kind where you sit there for a second like, “wait, what?”
I was mad at Cate Crane for pulling that off—but that’s kind of the point.
I loved this book and couldn’t put it down. I’ll be reading what she puts out next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2026
Grab your tissues for this 5 star read!! Highly recommend for an emotional read that will leave you even looking back on choices you’ve made in the past.
Every Single Choice brings Ellie Towle back to her hometown after making a choice 10 years ago that fractured her most important relationships. Stuck between her past with old love Rowan and a potential future with her even older friend Connor, each end up facing the results of the many choices made 10 years ago.
Each character felt so real and you could feel the emotion and the struggles. You could feel the chaos that was going on in Ellie’s head, the love that Connor had and the betrayal Rowan felt. Loved this one so much!!!
Every Single Choice brings Ellie Towle back to her hometown after making a choice 10 years ago that fractured her most important relationships. Stuck between her past with old love Rowan and a potential future with her even older friend Connor, each end up facing the results of the many choices made 10 years ago.
Each character felt so real and you could feel the emotion and the struggles. You could feel the chaos that was going on in Ellie’s head, the love that Connor had and the betrayal Rowan felt. Loved this one so much!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love when a book makes me stay up until 3am because I can’t sleep without knowing how it ends!!
Crane did such a fantastic job of building multi-dimensional characters. Each person was so complex & truly felt like a real person, not just a supporting character or romantic interest.
Ellie’s story itself is also something that almost every woman today can relate to- even if it isn’t their own lived experience. Every Single Choice demonstrates the struggle- internally & externally- & the impact that one decision can make. I love how raw & real this story felt, while also being a fun romantic read.
I can’t wait to read more from Cate Crane!
Crane did such a fantastic job of building multi-dimensional characters. Each person was so complex & truly felt like a real person, not just a supporting character or romantic interest.
Ellie’s story itself is also something that almost every woman today can relate to- even if it isn’t their own lived experience. Every Single Choice demonstrates the struggle- internally & externally- & the impact that one decision can make. I love how raw & real this story felt, while also being a fun romantic read.
I can’t wait to read more from Cate Crane!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book tugged at so many heart strings for me. Like Ellie in the book, I left my small hometown years ago. (Okay, smallish town, compared to Ellie's!), but that theme of moving away, of personal growth (not only yours, but also that of all those you knew the first time you thought you'd "grown up") are so universal that we easily identify with Ellie, her youthful goals, and current needs. Enter a choice between two handsome young men on their own growth journey, and the read gets spicy! But not every character grows, or changes in directions we could hope for, bringing sadness, as Ellie grows to find her place, her community.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've been looking forward to this one and it absolutely delivered! The plot kept me on my toes the whole way through, with twists I genuinely didn't see coming even at the very end.
What really got me was how invested I became in the characters. I found myself rooting for the person Ellie didn't end up with, which means the writing did its job. The love triangle is layered and pretty spicy, but underneath all of that is a really moving story about growth and coming back to face the things you ran from. Ellie's journey felt earned and I really love her growth.
10/10 read and a beautiful story.
What really got me was how invested I became in the characters. I found myself rooting for the person Ellie didn't end up with, which means the writing did its job. The love triangle is layered and pretty spicy, but underneath all of that is a really moving story about growth and coming back to face the things you ran from. Ellie's journey felt earned and I really love her growth.
10/10 read and a beautiful story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so thankful to have received an early copy from the author. I couldn't put it down! I grew up in a similar environment as the main character and it really made me feel like I was plopped back in my hometown. This book is such an important reminder that life can be so ugly and so beautiful at the same time. And to be brave enough to trust the choices we make and more importantly, live with them. You will walk away from this book feeling hopeful, reminiscent, and wanting to hold your loved ones close. Run, don't walk, to read Every Single Choice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had every feeling while reading this book. I cried multiple times, I laughed, I feel in love. Throughout the book I feel in love with each and every character and found who I was rooting for switching all the time. I had clear pictures of everything in my mind and was transported into Ellie's world due to the amazing use of imagery in this novel. I cannot recommend this book enough. Keep the tissues close and be prepared to fall in love!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cate Crane's debut novel pulls you in and wraps you around her little finger so quickly that you simply can't let go. A pleasure to read, EVERY SINGLE CHOICE tackles contemporary romance with timely and raw honesty. You'll feel the duality of Ellie's current choices, and struggle alongside her as she reckons with choices of her past. Curl up and get cozy -- you'll be sitting with Ellie and her choices for awhile -- don't forget your tissues!
May 5, 2026
An easy, addictive summer read I didn’t want to put down. Crane builds a small town that feels real and lived in, where past and present collide in all the right ways. There’s heart, there’s tension, and just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting—truly something for everyone. Highly recommend
Review of advance copy received from Author
I didn’t want to put this book down! What an amazing story that shows the domino effect of each choice we make. I loved the small town vibe, it didn’t feel overdone like I’ve felt in the past reading small town romance books. I love a book what wrecks me, and this did just that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the very beginning to the end I loved this story. It was hard not to love the characters and even harder to decide which relationship you wanted Ellie to end up in. The ending will make your jaw drop.
April 10, 2026
Hooked from page one!! Read this if you want to feel something!! I loved it!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an amazing book! A page turner full of drama and love. Truly beautifully written, I shed a few tears a handful of times. 10/10 recommend!
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