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The Missing Pieces of Me
'Amelia Mandeville is an author to watch' EMMA COOPER
Meet the couple you'll fall for head over heels, and discover the novel that will break your heart and put it back together again
Willow and Dustin. They're the perfect couple, everyone says so. And since the birth of their baby daughter, Dustin is sure his little family is all he will ever need.
So his world is shattered when he arrives home to find that Willow has disappeared, leaving only a cryptic note to say goodbye with no explanation of where she has gone or why she has left.
Determined to bring her home, Dustin sets out to find Willow. But the more he learns about the girl he loves most in the world, the more he feels like he's trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces.
Was Willow really keeping secrets from him?
Or was he just not looking closely enough in the first place?
________________________
***WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT AMELIA MANDEVILLE***
'She has touched my soul and lit up my heart'
'You feel every emotion on the spectrum with these characters'
'Simply stunning'
'Her book is everything I could have hoped for and more'
'It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it left me wanting more'
'Easy to read and yet terribly emotive'
Meet the couple you'll fall for head over heels, and discover the novel that will break your heart and put it back together again
Willow and Dustin. They're the perfect couple, everyone says so. And since the birth of their baby daughter, Dustin is sure his little family is all he will ever need.
So his world is shattered when he arrives home to find that Willow has disappeared, leaving only a cryptic note to say goodbye with no explanation of where she has gone or why she has left.
Determined to bring her home, Dustin sets out to find Willow. But the more he learns about the girl he loves most in the world, the more he feels like he's trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces.
Was Willow really keeping secrets from him?
Or was he just not looking closely enough in the first place?
________________________
***WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT AMELIA MANDEVILLE***
'She has touched my soul and lit up my heart'
'You feel every emotion on the spectrum with these characters'
'Simply stunning'
'Her book is everything I could have hoped for and more'
'It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it left me wanting more'
'Easy to read and yet terribly emotive'
336 pages, Paperback
Published August 20, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 17, 2020
CW: Anxiety, finger picking, postpartum depression
When Dustin met Willow, he knew he had met the one. Which is why three years later when Dustin arrives home to find his infant daughter alone, and Willow no-where to be found, he's heartbroken and confused. Travelling back to his family home, which he had previously escaped due to a toxic environment,Dustin begins thinking about if he ever really knew his girlfriend at all.
This was a sweet book that tried to really deliver a story that was full of first love, mental health struggles and the reality of being a young parent, as well as possibly suffering from postpartum depression to the reader and while I'm sure this story would work really well for others, I just didn't find myself invested in it or the characters.
The story felt both overwritten and underwritten to me in different parts (which I have to say is probably also the fault of the editor who didn't decide to cross some unnecessary parts out). We have passages where Willow and Dustin go to a party and practically list every person there and where they came from, and considering the only proper friend in the book is Willow's cousin Georgia, we don't need to know about everyone else so listing them out was a waste of time. And then there were a lot of parts of the story that were vague such as Dustin's family life - his sister's relationship and his mom's relationship, his mom's previous toxic behavior and how she overcame that and pretty much everything to do with Willow felt skimmed over.
There's a real conversational tone to the narrative that I didn't enjoy which I think is where a lot of the overwritten parts come into it. Because it feels friendly and like Willow and Dustin are chatting to their friend or a diary, they say too much and most of it doesn't matter.
There were characters in the book that probably could have done more such as Georgia and Alicia - though Georgia was probably actually the strongest side character in the novel - as well as Naomi who seemed like she should have been a bigger character in the book but maybe the author just forgot about her? Willow's gran Mary was a lovely character but she was just a gran, and didn't seem to have anything in her personality beyond that. Grans are loving and kind, and a brilliant support system but that doesn't mean that's all they are as humans! Gran deserved more.
I really didn't buy into Dustin and Willow's relationship at all tbh. There was zero chemistry and the both of them just seemed like total drips and I didn't really like either of them. As readers, we just had to accept that they were totally in love because I don't think it was ever really shown on the page and the chemistry was as flat as a pancake. Again, there was a vagueness in the ins and outs of their relationship and how they apparently always pranked each other, but we saw it only once on the page and the rest of the time they didn't really do much together at all. I also don't know why there was so much emphasis on their daughter Zara being a slow developer but it actually not bringing much to the story (besides Willow worrying about it). Willow is also suppose to be obsessed with knitting but it also doesn't bring anything to the story either, and it seems to be forgotten about after she knits the blanket for Dustin/Zara.
I didn't particularly like the end. It was underwhelming and honestly slightly weird with the origin of the packages (I don't know but it made zero sense why you would do that). The very end of it felt a little bit too To All the Boys I Loved Before but Lara Jean's letter writing skills are much, much better - and I actually believe her where I don't believe Willow ever knew what she wanted.
There is mental health representation which I know is something the author had first hand experience of, and she always tries to bring good mental health rep into her books which I appreciate. We see Willow suffer from anxiety and panic attacks and definitely a form of postpartum depression throughout the novel.
When Dustin met Willow, he knew he had met the one. Which is why three years later when Dustin arrives home to find his infant daughter alone, and Willow no-where to be found, he's heartbroken and confused. Travelling back to his family home, which he had previously escaped due to a toxic environment,Dustin begins thinking about if he ever really knew his girlfriend at all.
This was a sweet book that tried to really deliver a story that was full of first love, mental health struggles and the reality of being a young parent, as well as possibly suffering from postpartum depression to the reader and while I'm sure this story would work really well for others, I just didn't find myself invested in it or the characters.
The story felt both overwritten and underwritten to me in different parts (which I have to say is probably also the fault of the editor who didn't decide to cross some unnecessary parts out). We have passages where Willow and Dustin go to a party and practically list every person there and where they came from, and considering the only proper friend in the book is Willow's cousin Georgia, we don't need to know about everyone else so listing them out was a waste of time. And then there were a lot of parts of the story that were vague such as Dustin's family life - his sister's relationship and his mom's relationship, his mom's previous toxic behavior and how she overcame that and pretty much everything to do with Willow felt skimmed over.
There's a real conversational tone to the narrative that I didn't enjoy which I think is where a lot of the overwritten parts come into it. Because it feels friendly and like Willow and Dustin are chatting to their friend or a diary, they say too much and most of it doesn't matter.
There were characters in the book that probably could have done more such as Georgia and Alicia - though Georgia was probably actually the strongest side character in the novel - as well as Naomi who seemed like she should have been a bigger character in the book but maybe the author just forgot about her? Willow's gran Mary was a lovely character but she was just a gran, and didn't seem to have anything in her personality beyond that. Grans are loving and kind, and a brilliant support system but that doesn't mean that's all they are as humans! Gran deserved more.
I really didn't buy into Dustin and Willow's relationship at all tbh. There was zero chemistry and the both of them just seemed like total drips and I didn't really like either of them. As readers, we just had to accept that they were totally in love because I don't think it was ever really shown on the page and the chemistry was as flat as a pancake. Again, there was a vagueness in the ins and outs of their relationship and how they apparently always pranked each other, but we saw it only once on the page and the rest of the time they didn't really do much together at all. I also don't know why there was so much emphasis on their daughter Zara being a slow developer but it actually not bringing much to the story (besides Willow worrying about it). Willow is also suppose to be obsessed with knitting but it also doesn't bring anything to the story either, and it seems to be forgotten about after she knits the blanket for Dustin/Zara.
I didn't particularly like the end. It was underwhelming and honestly slightly weird with the origin of the packages (I don't know but it made zero sense why you would do that). The very end of it felt a little bit too To All the Boys I Loved Before but Lara Jean's letter writing skills are much, much better - and I actually believe her where I don't believe Willow ever knew what she wanted.
There is mental health representation which I know is something the author had first hand experience of, and she always tries to bring good mental health rep into her books which I appreciate. We see Willow suffer from anxiety and panic attacks and definitely a form of postpartum depression throughout the novel.
August 29, 2020
Since 'Every Colour of You' I felt as though Amelia's writing has matured and this book felt a hell of a lot more real, I personally felt it had more character depth and development. It spoke of loss, tragedy, love and hope in LIFE, it felt brilliantly heart-breaking but brilliantly real and thoughtful.
I would love to be reading more of Amelia's work if it continues in the way this story truly did, as a story of young love and the trauma which has yet to still be overcome. This book was full of life and endearing tales of what it means to live and how hard it can be; to feel alone, lost, confused and desperate to get away.
Thank you to Frankie from Little Brown for supplying me with a copy of this story and I will Amelia all the best in her writing journey.
I would love to be reading more of Amelia's work if it continues in the way this story truly did, as a story of young love and the trauma which has yet to still be overcome. This book was full of life and endearing tales of what it means to live and how hard it can be; to feel alone, lost, confused and desperate to get away.
Thank you to Frankie from Little Brown for supplying me with a copy of this story and I will Amelia all the best in her writing journey.
July 3, 2020
This book was quite simply beautiful!
The characterisation throughout was perfect, and the storyline kept you hooked from start to finish. I loved the fact that this wasn't your typical love story and it highlighted other issues people can face too.
A poignant, delightful book...a definite must read!
The characterisation throughout was perfect, and the storyline kept you hooked from start to finish. I loved the fact that this wasn't your typical love story and it highlighted other issues people can face too.
A poignant, delightful book...a definite must read!
November 6, 2020
This book was beautiful. I loved the way it was written, giving insights on both characters and what was happening with them. I loved the mystery and needing to know what happened between the characters and in the past. The ending was also beautiful with it being a happy ending but not in the way I was hoping.
June 28, 2020
3.5 stars
Firstly I’d just like to say I really enjoyed this book. It was a real page turner and I was quickly became absorbed in it, really connecting with Dustin’s character and how he negotiated life after Willow’s disappearance.
However, I felt that the relationship between Willow and Dustin was underwritten. I’d have liked to have seen how their relationship blossomed: them going on dates, having first times etc. Intimacy seemed to be a big deal to Willow at the start, but we never got to see how they moved through this and I couldn’t really grasp how quickly or slowly their relationship progressed. She was just suddenly pregnant... and somehow kept it to herself for two months. She lived with Dustin and her Gran, but somehow they didn’t even seem to even have suspicions about her being pregnant, even though she was suffering from morning sickness. I also felt that we needed to know how Willow initially felt about the pregnancy and if she had any doubt about having the baby, as it seemed that she just kind of accepted it and we didn’t really know how she was feeling.
The sentence structure and grammar was also awkward and flawed at some points, which is something that I also noticed in her debut novel. I also found a few inconsistencies that distracted from the story, such as their flat in Brighton - occasionally it was mentioned that they left something downstairs which made it seem more like a house, as well as Dustin finding Jake’s photo of Willow on Instagram through her tag, but his account being private (he shouldn’t have been able to see it if he was on private?).
I think that the novel as a whole would have also flowed a bit better if the chapters were slightly longer - the use of a dual narrative and the change in time worked well, but some chapters could definitely have been woven into one.
I also wasn’t sure about the bearded man (no spoilers) as I felt that his behaviour was a bit like a stalker, even if his intentions were good. The ending was also a bit disappointing, as the foreshadowing grew slightly tiresome which made it seem a tad dragged out. Not to mention the truth behind her parents, which was very dramatic and unfortunately didn’t quite sit right for me somehow.
Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read and a good story! Amelia Mandeville is a beautiful storyteller and I look forward to her future publications.
Firstly I’d just like to say I really enjoyed this book. It was a real page turner and I was quickly became absorbed in it, really connecting with Dustin’s character and how he negotiated life after Willow’s disappearance.
However, I felt that the relationship between Willow and Dustin was underwritten. I’d have liked to have seen how their relationship blossomed: them going on dates, having first times etc. Intimacy seemed to be a big deal to Willow at the start, but we never got to see how they moved through this and I couldn’t really grasp how quickly or slowly their relationship progressed. She was just suddenly pregnant... and somehow kept it to herself for two months. She lived with Dustin and her Gran, but somehow they didn’t even seem to even have suspicions about her being pregnant, even though she was suffering from morning sickness. I also felt that we needed to know how Willow initially felt about the pregnancy and if she had any doubt about having the baby, as it seemed that she just kind of accepted it and we didn’t really know how she was feeling.
The sentence structure and grammar was also awkward and flawed at some points, which is something that I also noticed in her debut novel. I also found a few inconsistencies that distracted from the story, such as their flat in Brighton - occasionally it was mentioned that they left something downstairs which made it seem more like a house, as well as Dustin finding Jake’s photo of Willow on Instagram through her tag, but his account being private (he shouldn’t have been able to see it if he was on private?).
I think that the novel as a whole would have also flowed a bit better if the chapters were slightly longer - the use of a dual narrative and the change in time worked well, but some chapters could definitely have been woven into one.
I also wasn’t sure about the bearded man (no spoilers) as I felt that his behaviour was a bit like a stalker, even if his intentions were good. The ending was also a bit disappointing, as the foreshadowing grew slightly tiresome which made it seem a tad dragged out. Not to mention the truth behind her parents, which was very dramatic and unfortunately didn’t quite sit right for me somehow.
Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable read and a good story! Amelia Mandeville is a beautiful storyteller and I look forward to her future publications.
August 13, 2020
The synopsis for this story piqued my interest and I was looking forward to diving in. Told from dual points of view, in the past and the present, there is definitely a lot going on. The mystery of the story was kept right to the end when everything becomes clear and you understand why the characters behaved the way they did. It is well written, however, for me, it just didn't grab me. I wanted it to move on and had to stop myself from skipping parts to get to the end.
Dustin and Willow are both very young and come from troubled backgrounds, but they find love in each other. The characters are well written and very believable, but because of their youth also very frustrating at times. Their age is definitely their downfall when it comes to making the right choices and this comes across very well.
For me, this could have been a very good storyline, but I just didn't get the empathy for them that I wanted. I found them somewhat annoying and although I am sure some will love the story for me it was just lacking the magic.
Dustin and Willow are both very young and come from troubled backgrounds, but they find love in each other. The characters are well written and very believable, but because of their youth also very frustrating at times. Their age is definitely their downfall when it comes to making the right choices and this comes across very well.
For me, this could have been a very good storyline, but I just didn't get the empathy for them that I wanted. I found them somewhat annoying and although I am sure some will love the story for me it was just lacking the magic.
August 15, 2020
When I started reading the missing pieces of me i fell in love with this book, from the very first chapter. The story follows Dustin and Willow a young couple with a beautiful baby girl called Eve, we start with a letter to Dustin from Willow saying they will be better off without her.
The structure of the novel follows Dustin in the present and we go back 3 years for Willows story until the timeliness connects now wjat is so cleverly done by the author is we get to see thd relationship between Dustin and Willow progress through the past prose and also get to witness Dustin's struggle to work out why Willow upped and left.
Dustin as a main character is quite an interesting one. We are left questioning whether the progression of Dustin has gone as far as we think or even as far as he thinks. His struggle with Zara throughout the story is humbling it really illustrates how hard parenthood actually is. What it further shows is how if one parent is working alot while the other is at home with a baby all the time, how much the work of child rearing is taken for granted. I actually really enjoyed Dustins personal journey throughout the story. The emotions he feels are so roar and so believanle for the situation. Especially after her has to move back to his mother's house.
Willow on the other hand for me isn't as sympathic a character as Dustin espically in the modern day. Now when she's telling her story in the past i really liked her. But in the present I just lost all compassion towards her, even if its blazingly obvious what id wrong with her. I just felt with the way the relationship had grown between them that she would likely share with Dustin about her striggles as a mother.
There are some other amazing characters Gran is great, everyone needs a gran like her in their lives. Georgia is hilarious, a bit much but we all havd that one friend or family member, I know i do. Dustins mum is a take no nonsense woman who although feeling strongly on many issues she finds herself backing off and leve Dustin to fatherhood.
Like I said i loved this book and not my normal genre at all but i highly recommend. I am giving a solid 4 because I felt the last few chapters the big reveal it was a let down. But otherwise loved loved loved.
Thank you little brown books Ltd and Nethalley for ARC in respect of an honest review.
The structure of the novel follows Dustin in the present and we go back 3 years for Willows story until the timeliness connects now wjat is so cleverly done by the author is we get to see thd relationship between Dustin and Willow progress through the past prose and also get to witness Dustin's struggle to work out why Willow upped and left.
Dustin as a main character is quite an interesting one. We are left questioning whether the progression of Dustin has gone as far as we think or even as far as he thinks. His struggle with Zara throughout the story is humbling it really illustrates how hard parenthood actually is. What it further shows is how if one parent is working alot while the other is at home with a baby all the time, how much the work of child rearing is taken for granted. I actually really enjoyed Dustins personal journey throughout the story. The emotions he feels are so roar and so believanle for the situation. Especially after her has to move back to his mother's house.
Willow on the other hand for me isn't as sympathic a character as Dustin espically in the modern day. Now when she's telling her story in the past i really liked her. But in the present I just lost all compassion towards her, even if its blazingly obvious what id wrong with her. I just felt with the way the relationship had grown between them that she would likely share with Dustin about her striggles as a mother.
There are some other amazing characters Gran is great, everyone needs a gran like her in their lives. Georgia is hilarious, a bit much but we all havd that one friend or family member, I know i do. Dustins mum is a take no nonsense woman who although feeling strongly on many issues she finds herself backing off and leve Dustin to fatherhood.
Like I said i loved this book and not my normal genre at all but i highly recommend. I am giving a solid 4 because I felt the last few chapters the big reveal it was a let down. But otherwise loved loved loved.
Thank you little brown books Ltd and Nethalley for ARC in respect of an honest review.
March 21, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy. In return for an honest review! #themissingpiecesofme #netgalley
Willow is a young mum with a flat and a loving boyfriend from the outside she looks like she's got everything but she is struggling as a new mum so one day she leaves her life behind and starts afresh. Will Dustin find her again? Can they rebuild their lives?
The description was the thing that drew me into this book. Although I do think the cover shows this book as a romcom which it isn't.
This book has a lovely premise showing how difficult parenthood can be and how bottling things up does not help at all. It brings to the forefront maternal health, mental health and isolation which needs to be spoken about more.
However it is very repetitive book which is worse is the first half. You don't get given any more information than Willow is missing and how Dustin has returned home.
The characters are OK but it is a shame that you don't get to know them more or have more interactions with there feelings and past. You learn about Willow's parents on the last quarter of the book but up until that point it feels like your missing part of inside information. If this had been given all along and really delved into Willows past life and also her mental health you would likely to feel more connection to her and more desperate to find her.
Willow is a young mum with a flat and a loving boyfriend from the outside she looks like she's got everything but she is struggling as a new mum so one day she leaves her life behind and starts afresh. Will Dustin find her again? Can they rebuild their lives?
The description was the thing that drew me into this book. Although I do think the cover shows this book as a romcom which it isn't.
This book has a lovely premise showing how difficult parenthood can be and how bottling things up does not help at all. It brings to the forefront maternal health, mental health and isolation which needs to be spoken about more.
However it is very repetitive book which is worse is the first half. You don't get given any more information than Willow is missing and how Dustin has returned home.
The characters are OK but it is a shame that you don't get to know them more or have more interactions with there feelings and past. You learn about Willow's parents on the last quarter of the book but up until that point it feels like your missing part of inside information. If this had been given all along and really delved into Willows past life and also her mental health you would likely to feel more connection to her and more desperate to find her.
December 11, 2024
Beautifully Written Average Story.
What i loved about this book was its excellent writing. Author Amelia's writing style just made me want to keep on going, promoting speed, that's a real talent.
She writes both of her protagonists in first person each with their own alternative chapters, he in the present time and she in the past, the timelines eventually meet up at the end for the conclusion.
For me the story was mediocre but interesting enough to keep up my curiosity of how it was going to end up with the 2 young lovers who are both very confused about one another hence the puzzle he has to put together about her whilst she's absent from him throughout the story.
I found them both to be very unlikeable therefore I felt no emotion.
It's just a very readable story about him wondering why she left and her telling us why she left, revealing their pasts through the chapters. The ending is quite satisfactory and I was so glad it didn't go the other way.
No twists, all straightforward and beautifully written with such clarity.
Amelia's first book Every Colour Of You i found to be tonnes better story and character wise which got a 5 star rating from me.
The Missing Pieces Of Me is just as good with the writing as her first book and i'll certainly be buying her next book.
Highly recommended as a brilliant read.
What i loved about this book was its excellent writing. Author Amelia's writing style just made me want to keep on going, promoting speed, that's a real talent.
She writes both of her protagonists in first person each with their own alternative chapters, he in the present time and she in the past, the timelines eventually meet up at the end for the conclusion.
For me the story was mediocre but interesting enough to keep up my curiosity of how it was going to end up with the 2 young lovers who are both very confused about one another hence the puzzle he has to put together about her whilst she's absent from him throughout the story.
I found them both to be very unlikeable therefore I felt no emotion.
It's just a very readable story about him wondering why she left and her telling us why she left, revealing their pasts through the chapters. The ending is quite satisfactory and I was so glad it didn't go the other way.
No twists, all straightforward and beautifully written with such clarity.
Amelia's first book Every Colour Of You i found to be tonnes better story and character wise which got a 5 star rating from me.
The Missing Pieces Of Me is just as good with the writing as her first book and i'll certainly be buying her next book.
Highly recommended as a brilliant read.
June 26, 2020
I was really excited for this book- having loved every colour of you (despite it not being my usual style) and it's fair to say it did not disappoint. The characters were well developed and it was one of those books where you just couldn't put it down! There were twists and so many parts to it which you didn't expect at all!! I felt so many emotions and really felt the characters and were able to relate to them (which added to the emotion) The layout of the book was great too (don't want to give any spoilers) and it drew me in. It was full of great quotes too
"when you're walking you can't look too far behind or too far ahead otherwise you'll stumble"
"I believe you can do this, you really just need to believe in yourself"
The quotes above are some I really liked.
While reading, I could almost sense the passion and love that had gone into writing it. It was such an interesting concept and one I hadn't seen or read about before and I just couldn't put it down.
Amelia Mandeville is a talented author and I can't wait to see what she releases next.
"when you're walking you can't look too far behind or too far ahead otherwise you'll stumble"
"I believe you can do this, you really just need to believe in yourself"
The quotes above are some I really liked.
While reading, I could almost sense the passion and love that had gone into writing it. It was such an interesting concept and one I hadn't seen or read about before and I just couldn't put it down.
Amelia Mandeville is a talented author and I can't wait to see what she releases next.
July 11, 2021
4.5/5.0 ⭐️
I enjoyed this book immensely. Going in to this book I didn’t know much about it. We start of with Willow leaving Dustin without any explanation. From that point on you get little bits and pieces of the puzzle of what happened with Willow, why she left and what happened in their pasts. Both of these characters have been through a lot, but you discover this along the way.
I couldn’t put this book down again once I past the 50 page marker. I really wanted to know what happened to Willow and I wanted to see, most of all, what would happen with Zara. I’m glad that in the end they did see each other again and talked, worked through thinks and went to take care of Zara together. Well not really together together, but they are trying.
I liked the writing style in this novel better then in her previous novel. You can see that Amelia is growing as an author and that really shows in this book. Can’t wait to see how she will grow in further novels and hopefully we will get another book soon!
I enjoyed this book immensely. Going in to this book I didn’t know much about it. We start of with Willow leaving Dustin without any explanation. From that point on you get little bits and pieces of the puzzle of what happened with Willow, why she left and what happened in their pasts. Both of these characters have been through a lot, but you discover this along the way.
I couldn’t put this book down again once I past the 50 page marker. I really wanted to know what happened to Willow and I wanted to see, most of all, what would happen with Zara. I’m glad that in the end they did see each other again and talked, worked through thinks and went to take care of Zara together. Well not really together together, but they are trying.
I liked the writing style in this novel better then in her previous novel. You can see that Amelia is growing as an author and that really shows in this book. Can’t wait to see how she will grow in further novels and hopefully we will get another book soon!
July 25, 2021
I was so invested in our future. So focused on it. So dedicated to it, that I kind of forgot to focus on you in the present.
The missing pieces of you is a very interesting take on the ‘what if he leaves?’ Concept. Where everything is flipped in it’s head and written beautifully from both the male and female perspectives.
It was such a refreshing read, and true portrayal of the male side of a breakup, which often goes untold.
I found myself screaming at the characters over and over for the exact same reasons I would scream at my friends. They are relatable, they are flawed and they are human.
An easy read, with short chapters that allowed for a fluid read from start to finish.
I did find I personally missed the world building. Even tho it takes place in real life, and in an area I know well, I still felt wanting for just more world descriptions.
I give this book 3 1/2⭐️
The missing pieces of you is a very interesting take on the ‘what if he leaves?’ Concept. Where everything is flipped in it’s head and written beautifully from both the male and female perspectives.
It was such a refreshing read, and true portrayal of the male side of a breakup, which often goes untold.
I found myself screaming at the characters over and over for the exact same reasons I would scream at my friends. They are relatable, they are flawed and they are human.
An easy read, with short chapters that allowed for a fluid read from start to finish.
I did find I personally missed the world building. Even tho it takes place in real life, and in an area I know well, I still felt wanting for just more world descriptions.
I give this book 3 1/2⭐️
July 20, 2020
TW: grief, death, arson, emotional abuse, addiction, neglect, abusive parent, postpartum depression
I was really intrigued by this somewhat mysterious YA contemporary and Mandeville’s writing style kept that intrigue up throughout. It’s smartly structured, with shorter chapters that kept me hooked and two alternating timelines that were interwoven perfectly. We explore the past of Dustin and Willow’s relationship through the latter’s eyes and the present through the former. This serves to allow us to really get into the heads of our two primary protagonists, both of which had instantly engaging and relatable voices. Willow in particular is the more shadowy figure of the two, with secrets lying beneath the surface.
This is a real slice of life contemporary that particularly deals with family and parenthood in a really interesting way. Almost all of the family relationships in this book are fractured and flawed, which often felt like they were all skating on thin ice constantly. Reading this was like walking though an emotional minefield at times, as hidden prejudices and secrets bubbled up to the surface. Mandeville isn’t afraid to delve into darker topics and perhaps more taboo reactions to parenthood, like postpartum depression. She makes it abundantly clear that parenthood isn’t a perfect experience or particularly something that you just get instantly, rather it’s a tough leaning experience. I really liked how this wasn’t your typical romantic story, though Dustin and Willow’s romance was a core focus. The dual perspectives revealed how little we often know about those we love an dhow secrets are often our downfall. Mandeville really captures the whirlwind of emotions and the realistically messy, complex relationships we often share with others.
I was really intrigued by this somewhat mysterious YA contemporary and Mandeville’s writing style kept that intrigue up throughout. It’s smartly structured, with shorter chapters that kept me hooked and two alternating timelines that were interwoven perfectly. We explore the past of Dustin and Willow’s relationship through the latter’s eyes and the present through the former. This serves to allow us to really get into the heads of our two primary protagonists, both of which had instantly engaging and relatable voices. Willow in particular is the more shadowy figure of the two, with secrets lying beneath the surface.
This is a real slice of life contemporary that particularly deals with family and parenthood in a really interesting way. Almost all of the family relationships in this book are fractured and flawed, which often felt like they were all skating on thin ice constantly. Reading this was like walking though an emotional minefield at times, as hidden prejudices and secrets bubbled up to the surface. Mandeville isn’t afraid to delve into darker topics and perhaps more taboo reactions to parenthood, like postpartum depression. She makes it abundantly clear that parenthood isn’t a perfect experience or particularly something that you just get instantly, rather it’s a tough leaning experience. I really liked how this wasn’t your typical romantic story, though Dustin and Willow’s romance was a core focus. The dual perspectives revealed how little we often know about those we love an dhow secrets are often our downfall. Mandeville really captures the whirlwind of emotions and the realistically messy, complex relationships we often share with others.
July 5, 2020
It’s not easy to capture mental health problems and the swirling storm that is human emotion buts it’s something Amelia Mandeville faultlessly executes in this novel. The realness and relatability of the characters brings this book to life and you’ll struggle not to be truly emotionally invested. Storytelling at its finest.
The pacing and structure of the book is flawless, developing the characters and progressing the plot in perfect measures. Putting this book down will be your only challenge.
I really hope there are future books from Amelia Mandeville, because two just isn’t enough.
The pacing and structure of the book is flawless, developing the characters and progressing the plot in perfect measures. Putting this book down will be your only challenge.
I really hope there are future books from Amelia Mandeville, because two just isn’t enough.
December 11, 2024
I didn’t connect to this book. I thought it was going to be a story about love and mental health issues - which it was. But I never really fell in love with either of their characters or their love story. As for the mental health, there was definitely an element of postpartum depression even though it was never stated as such outright.
But mostly I just felt that it was watered down story of a couple that chose to be together and have a child when they hadn’t dealt with their emotional baggage yet.
But mostly I just felt that it was watered down story of a couple that chose to be together and have a child when they hadn’t dealt with their emotional baggage yet.
February 21, 2023
First of all a big thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for sending me a copy of this book to read and review.
I found this book to be absolutely heartbreaking but it’s a story that needs to be told. The story between Willow and Dustin and Zara made me emotional several times. As well as Willows story in general. Her history and her present.
I loved that the book switched between ‘now’ chapters and ‘then’ chapters. I felt like it really added to the story.
I found this book to be absolutely heartbreaking but it’s a story that needs to be told. The story between Willow and Dustin and Zara made me emotional several times. As well as Willows story in general. Her history and her present.
I loved that the book switched between ‘now’ chapters and ‘then’ chapters. I felt like it really added to the story.
June 5, 2020
I read this back in May and instantly fell in love.
The story was absolutely beautiful. It’s about the “perfect” couple, Willow and Dustin, and their baby. And the story and mystery of what happens when Dustin comes home to find the baby alone with no explanation of where Willow has gone.
This book is so easy to read, and draws you into a plot of lies, mystery and heartbreak.
The story was absolutely beautiful. It’s about the “perfect” couple, Willow and Dustin, and their baby. And the story and mystery of what happens when Dustin comes home to find the baby alone with no explanation of where Willow has gone.
This book is so easy to read, and draws you into a plot of lies, mystery and heartbreak.
August 24, 2020
I didn’t want this book to end!!!!
I was so absorbed and invested in Willow and Dustin’s life and relationship. Amelia’s style of writing is effortless, and I love the short chapters. I know this is a book I will pick up again in the future to re-read. I urge everyone to read this book, I promise you will fall in love with all of the characters in this novel.
I was so absorbed and invested in Willow and Dustin’s life and relationship. Amelia’s style of writing is effortless, and I love the short chapters. I know this is a book I will pick up again in the future to re-read. I urge everyone to read this book, I promise you will fall in love with all of the characters in this novel.
July 12, 2021
Left with the same feelings as I did with Amelia's first book. In awe of how well it was written and the narrative stitched together. Heart strings pulling at me and even though the ending isn't a 'fairytale' still so gripped and amazed at how good the book was. This story will also be staying with me for a long time I think, thank you again Amelia.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2022
Pre: I have a feeling that is gonna be a book that takes a really cliché trope and turns it into the most amazing and unforgettable thing that really stays with you
Post: eh. I wasn’t really interested in it. The plot felt underdeveloped and it didn’t feel captivating. I liked the characters but I found it tricky to get through. (1.25/5)
Post: eh. I wasn’t really interested in it. The plot felt underdeveloped and it didn’t feel captivating. I liked the characters but I found it tricky to get through. (1.25/5)
May 12, 2022
The premise was good. I stayed up late to read it to find out what happened actually. Getting to the end it started to be a bit annoying (for me) especially . It kinda put me off a bit. But the mental health theme is very interesting and very real here.
June 26, 2020
Magical, romantic, emotional!!!
I loved this book! I couldnt put it down and experienced every emotion went whilst reading it. The romance was magical! Perfect light read which you will finish in hours! Highly recommend ! Just ordered Amelia's first book to read.
I loved this book! I couldnt put it down and experienced every emotion went whilst reading it. The romance was magical! Perfect light read which you will finish in hours! Highly recommend ! Just ordered Amelia's first book to read.
January 29, 2023
very good, very sad, had me desperate for a conclusion. a very interesting perspective on post-natal depression and very heartbreaking to read. wish there was more of an ending and some parts were cringe but it was great. v sad. i can’t have a baby anytime soon
January 31, 2024
Amelia showcases how skilled her writing can be, a couple of minor grammatical errors throughout the book and a cliche storyline with frustrating pivots and impossibilities made me really dislike the plot in the end. Would recommend as a quick read but not an engaging one
June 30, 2020
I loved it, could't put it down and the mystery element had me wondering all the way through until the reveal! I'm going to buy Amelia's first book off the back of how much I enjoyed this one :)
July 16, 2020
Amelia has done it again. Another book that took my heart and tore it into tiny pieces.
February 21, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read her first book.
The book kept me gripped all the way through and i even shed a little tear at the end of the book as it came full circle.
The book kept me gripped all the way through and i even shed a little tear at the end of the book as it came full circle.
April 13, 2021
I enjoyed this book; I liked the characters and the storyline. Quite a read!
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
July 25, 2022
I really enjoyed this novel, and I spent a lot of it questioning how it was going to end. I loved how it ended, it was honest and real and beautiful. A lovely book.
January 6, 2026
It did keep me hooked. However it got predictable towards the end, and a lot of the things that were hinted as plot altering .. didn’t really do much. 3.5/10
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