Where the Light Glows, is a debut novel for Blake. I thought the book started out with some promise, but the more I read, the more I had issues. Unfortunately, towards the end of the book, I found myself wishing it would just end. This was not a bad book, but I did not think it was any better than just okay. My finale rating is hovering somewhere between 2 1/2 to 3 Stars.
The story is about a woman in a very unhappy marriage named Mel. Mel spends many nights going to a family run Italian restaurant, owned by Izzy. The more time Mel and Izzy spend together, feelings start to develop. With Mel's marriage failing, will she take a chance on Izzy, or is there too many issues keeping them apart?
I liked the premise of the story. Izzy running her family restaurant and how they where dealing with a tough but loyal customer. However, I was surprised to find the customer they often referred to as "bitch" ended up being the other main character Mel. It seemed odd that Izzy would have this little crush on Mel, when she was rumored to treat her staff poorly. I don't mind a colder character, but when we get to know Mel, she is far from a bitch. To me, it just seemed an odd choice to make her appear awful in the beginning, when the so called "bitch" behavior never returned in the rest of the book.
As I mentioned above, this is a debut novel, and for me it showed. While I do think Blake has some talent and should keep honing her craft, I had some issues with the writing. The writing for me, felt choppy in places. I also felt there needed to be more character tags. Because the POV switches between both characters often, I had trouble knowing who was speaking when. I would have to stop and read back, to try to find out for sure which character spoke. I hate having to do that as it takes me out of the flow of the book. I hope this is something Blake will correct in her future books.
Another issue I had, was too much angst. I love some good angst and drama that pushes a good storyline, but this was too much. And it became a bit exhausting to where I just wanted the book to end. Also, what was up with the crazy ex-girlfriend? It is called a restraining order. The ex caused so much havoc, then she just disappears. This book had enough angst, it did not need such a disturbed person in it.
This was an okay read. It has some good, like the chemistry between the mains, but It had plenty of issues. I can not personally recommend this, but others might like it more than I did. I would be willing to give Blake another chance, in the future.
An ARC was given to me by BSB, for a honest review.