This book was so many things. Comfortable. Heart-warming. Hilarious. Beautiful.
In fact, I like those labels so well that I want to take them one at a time. Never done a review this way before, but let's give it a try. :)
Comfortable. The small-town southern setting. The families that had known each other forever. The lifelong best friends wondering if they could become something more. There was just such a homey feel to this setting, these characters, this love story. It wasn't deep, dark secrets and tragic backstories and insurmountable obstacles. It was down-to-earth living and learning and loving. Trusting and walking with God for the day-to-day and the uncertain future. Old-fashioned chivalry and chocolate ice cream mixed with Instagram messages and country music CDs.
Heart-warming. Ty and Jen's relationship was just so perfect. It's been a while since I read a romance from only the guy's perspective, but I wouldn't have had this one any other way. The story was Ty's in the same way the struggles and decisions were his, and Jen was his perfect complement--lightening the mood when things got too somber, trusting him in the midst of his uncertainty, and loving him for exactly who he was. Ty's struggle to be sure of their future didn't leave me annoyed and frustrated because it was grounded so solidly in his high ideals, his love for Jen, and his desire to obey God above anything. I loved him so much--not in a romantic, swooning way, but with a satisfied, solid admiration and affection. And if that doesn't sound like a compliment, trust me; this kind of hero is my absolute favorite!
Hilarious. Mike. Oh, my word. What can I say? Every guy needs a best friend like this. Who am I kidding? I need a best friend like this! Their chemistry was perfect. Their banter was flawless. The way Ty could go from laughing to wanting to throttle him in the space of a breath was so real. Near the beginning, I almost didn't want to get to the love story just because I was having so much fun with the two guys. (Good thing I wasn't the author, because, as above, the love story was wonderful.) But every time Mike poked his nose into the scene again, I knew I was in for a great time!
And finally, take the sum of everything I just mentioned. Multiply by the hundred other bits and pieces that fit together perfectly to make the whole. Add an epilogue that brought tears to my eyes--again! What is it with you, Jesseca?!? Subtract any hint of inappropriate content or uncomfortable description in the romance. And the total is--beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.
I would recommend this book without hesitation, and I'm so honored to have been part of the team of beta-readers. This is my favorite of Jesseca Wheaton's books so far--and that's saying a lot. Five glowing stars!
I received a free copy of this book from the author. A favorable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
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My very first beta-read! So, so beautiful! <3
Better review to come after publication. :)