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Closure
"I hope, after this extremely long love letter, that you can appreciate the way all of our little moments fell together in the type of perfection I had once believed I'd only read about in books."
For Morgan, Philadelphia isn't "just" a city. It can never, will never, be "just" a city again.
From ordering cookies at a food truck at 2 AM, to wading barefoot in a fountain near the famous Rocky statue, to drunk grocery shopping and midnight serenades, Wade is the center of Morgan's world. However, from the beginning, they face an irreconcilable difference that threatens to tear their relationship apart: though they were both born and raised Catholic, Morgan cares about her beliefs, and Wade resents them. When Morgan begins making her values a priority, confusion and bitterness surface as both parties struggle to accept that their once-perfect relationship is no longer a guarantee.
Years later, when Morgan revisits the city that has always been able to crack her heart wide open, she learns that closure can come in unexpected forms, and that sometimes, destiny lends itself to the most perfect of goodbyes between two people who really loved each other.
Perfect for fans of Jill Santopolo's The Light We Lost and Daniel Handler's Why We Broke Up, this breathtaking, heart-wrenching, and tumultuous New Adult novel will resonate with anyone who's ever had a first love they believed would last forever, and addresses the hard reality that growing up in a relationship ultimately means growing together or growing apart.
For Morgan, Philadelphia isn't "just" a city. It can never, will never, be "just" a city again.
From ordering cookies at a food truck at 2 AM, to wading barefoot in a fountain near the famous Rocky statue, to drunk grocery shopping and midnight serenades, Wade is the center of Morgan's world. However, from the beginning, they face an irreconcilable difference that threatens to tear their relationship apart: though they were both born and raised Catholic, Morgan cares about her beliefs, and Wade resents them. When Morgan begins making her values a priority, confusion and bitterness surface as both parties struggle to accept that their once-perfect relationship is no longer a guarantee.
Years later, when Morgan revisits the city that has always been able to crack her heart wide open, she learns that closure can come in unexpected forms, and that sometimes, destiny lends itself to the most perfect of goodbyes between two people who really loved each other.
Perfect for fans of Jill Santopolo's The Light We Lost and Daniel Handler's Why We Broke Up, this breathtaking, heart-wrenching, and tumultuous New Adult novel will resonate with anyone who's ever had a first love they believed would last forever, and addresses the hard reality that growing up in a relationship ultimately means growing together or growing apart.
255 pages, Paperback
Published August 28, 2020
1 person is currently reading
1307 people want to read
About the author
Lindsey Todd
6 books51 followersLindsey Todd is the author of The Summer Club (a novel) and Closure (a novel), which was reviewed by Publishers Weekly (2021) and has been endorsed by New York Times bestselling author, Elizabeth Marcolini. Lindsey holds a BA in English (Writing) from West Chester University, and is the creator and host of The Fireside Lit Book Club, a space where stories meet soul. When her nose isn't buried in a book (and when she's not writing), Lindsey enjoys fitness and yoga, singing/music, hiking, art, and adventures of all kinds! She has traveled extensively through the U.S. and Europe, and is always planning a new escapade. You can learn more about, and read excerpts of her work, at www.lindseytodd.net. Follow her author's Instagram account: @veritaswords.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 12, 2020
A passionate, genuine story about a young girl's first love and all the other firsts that go along with it- first kiss, first dance, first fight, first sexual encounter..etc. Giving the novel its uniqueness, the narrator allows the reader into the mind of a young Catholic as she slowly realizes that she must make a choice between her faith and the love of her life.
The author never fails in creating images with her words- something I have grown to appreciate in a writer. With her naturally flowing style of writing, I feel like a close observer in each one the book's scenes. Occasionally, I found myself drifting back to my own love history and feeling the narrator's tears in my own eyes.
As the story came to its suprisingly satisfying conclusion, the reader closes the book with a sense of resolve. I'm eager to see what Lindsey Todd has in store next for her readers.
The author never fails in creating images with her words- something I have grown to appreciate in a writer. With her naturally flowing style of writing, I feel like a close observer in each one the book's scenes. Occasionally, I found myself drifting back to my own love history and feeling the narrator's tears in my own eyes.
As the story came to its suprisingly satisfying conclusion, the reader closes the book with a sense of resolve. I'm eager to see what Lindsey Todd has in store next for her readers.
August 19, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. // “I realized and believed for the first time that God has the power to mend even the most broken of narratives.” // Wow, this novel is probably one of the best I’ve read about relationships and faith. Lindsey’s writing is beautiful and sincere. My heart broke every time Morgan chose what she knew would cause her to lose peace in her heart. Through Morgan’s journey of finding her identity in God, I learned much about being uncompromising in your faith, even for those that you love.
August 8, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! :) My review contains *minor spoilers*
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•
At its core, Closure is a story of first love and how, often, it leads to an eventual growing apart. We know going into it how the story is going to end- but seeing the relationship grow from the very beginning brings all sorts of nostalgic feelings into the mix. If you’ve ever had a first love, I imagine you’ll feel the same way after reading this book.
Because of those nostalgic feelings, I’d give Closure a solid three stars. The characters were likable and the writing style is very descriptive- something I enjoy for sure! It’s very flowery, but in a such a good way. On point. It draws the reader in closer to the story.
Their relationship was lighthearted in the beginning- absolutely adorable. It really hits home for younger audiences in that aspect! We’ve all had a cute high school relationship like this and I liked that aspect. (It carries into college, but you get what I’m saying!)
That being said, romances aren’t necessarily always my cup of tea. Fantasy is typically the genre I reach for the most. Closure was very easy to read, although there were a few elements that weren’t my favorite; the emotional manipulation Wade puts Morgan through and the over exaggerated dependency she has because of it. However, I am glad that the ending tied everything together and both characters are granted the closure they’re looking for. We love a good happy, resolved ending.
Thank you again to Lindsey Todd for reaching out to me for a review! I enjoyed your book and I can’t wait to read what you write in the future!
•
•
At its core, Closure is a story of first love and how, often, it leads to an eventual growing apart. We know going into it how the story is going to end- but seeing the relationship grow from the very beginning brings all sorts of nostalgic feelings into the mix. If you’ve ever had a first love, I imagine you’ll feel the same way after reading this book.
Because of those nostalgic feelings, I’d give Closure a solid three stars. The characters were likable and the writing style is very descriptive- something I enjoy for sure! It’s very flowery, but in a such a good way. On point. It draws the reader in closer to the story.
Their relationship was lighthearted in the beginning- absolutely adorable. It really hits home for younger audiences in that aspect! We’ve all had a cute high school relationship like this and I liked that aspect. (It carries into college, but you get what I’m saying!)
That being said, romances aren’t necessarily always my cup of tea. Fantasy is typically the genre I reach for the most. Closure was very easy to read, although there were a few elements that weren’t my favorite; the emotional manipulation Wade puts Morgan through and the over exaggerated dependency she has because of it. However, I am glad that the ending tied everything together and both characters are granted the closure they’re looking for. We love a good happy, resolved ending.
Thank you again to Lindsey Todd for reaching out to me for a review! I enjoyed your book and I can’t wait to read what you write in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2020
I really enjoyed this well-written story. Closure follows the relationship of Morgan and Wade and begins with us realizing that their 6-year relationship is over. The entire book consists of snippets of their time together through the main character’s reflections. When they meet, as teenagers, Wade seems like the perfect mate. Morgan quickly falls in love; sure they will someday be married. Because of this belief, she lets the relationship advance into a physical one.
Throughout the story, Morgan is conflicted about her relationship with Wade and her faith. Through the years, Wade’s lukewarm faith turns completely cold while hers deepens. She knows what they’re doing is wrong and when she finally has the strength to end the physical part of their relationship, the underlying problems become apparent.
I believe this probably happens a lot. Our society tells young people that chastity is old-fashioned and that sex before marriage is fine. And when people truly believe they will be spending the rest of their lives with this person, it might not seem wrong. I think this book could help a lot of people who are struggling with the pain of letting go of a relationship that is not good for them.
Realizing that who you are striving to be is not who your boyfriend/girlfriend loves is devastating. Many people try to push through it, believing their love is meant to be. But this story points out beautifully, that you can’t force someone to change. And sometimes relationships, no matter how wonderful they seem, might not be good for us. Having such a story, with characters that young people can relate to, is probably very beneficial and healing.
Throughout the story, Morgan is conflicted about her relationship with Wade and her faith. Through the years, Wade’s lukewarm faith turns completely cold while hers deepens. She knows what they’re doing is wrong and when she finally has the strength to end the physical part of their relationship, the underlying problems become apparent.
I believe this probably happens a lot. Our society tells young people that chastity is old-fashioned and that sex before marriage is fine. And when people truly believe they will be spending the rest of their lives with this person, it might not seem wrong. I think this book could help a lot of people who are struggling with the pain of letting go of a relationship that is not good for them.
Realizing that who you are striving to be is not who your boyfriend/girlfriend loves is devastating. Many people try to push through it, believing their love is meant to be. But this story points out beautifully, that you can’t force someone to change. And sometimes relationships, no matter how wonderful they seem, might not be good for us. Having such a story, with characters that young people can relate to, is probably very beneficial and healing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2021
Of course, I have to be the first to review my own book (and if I can't rate it five stars, what hope is there for the rest of you to love it?) SO — here goes!
If you have a soft spot for coming-of-age/New Adult novels, and have previously wept over the likes of Eleanor & Park, Why We Broke Up, The Light We Lost, and The Way We Were (both book/film adaptation), this, my friends, is the book for you.
"In that moment, something small and sure inside of me dipped. The world didn’t stop spinning — I wasn’t struck by Cupid’s arrow — but it felt like you were someone important. Like you would maybe be important for a very, very long time."
When Morgan meets Wade for the first time as a freshman in high school, all she has to go by is a feeling — a "knowing" without knowing that this athletic, musical, studious perfect stranger with the wide blue eyes and easy smile is going to affect her life forever. The thing about intuition? It's seldom wrong.
So begin the next six years of a shared life, from sweet-sixteen first kisses in a dark movie theater to the weighted and poignant experience of intimacy. Morgan and Wade grow up together, inseparable from their early days in an exclusive, Catholic prep school bubble through their first taste of real-world independence at college in Philadelphia. As they experience the exhilarating, passionate, and intense emotions that embody first love, embarking on adventures that include overpriced restaurants, quiet coffeeshops, costume contests, 2 a.m. food runs, and perilous rooftop excursions, only one thing threatens Morgan and Wade's relationship: their incompatible faith differences. Though they were both raised Catholic, faith is an integral aspect of Morgan's life. For Wade, it's a cultural part of his background that he'd rather leave behind.
As time goes on, the divide between the two grows more and more irreconcilable, rendering the issue unavoidable as Morgan and Wade both embrace their adult identities and outgrow the kids they once were. When Morgan's beliefs begin affecting the very nature of her relationship with Wade, both are left questioning how — and whether it's even possible — to move forward. What do you do when the person you love most is incompatible with the person you long to be? Do you choose your partner, or do you choose yourself?
"In those moments, I allowed myself to feel everything that I was going to feel for you; for us. About what it would be like to not know you, to not love you anymore. And my throat closed and my heart collapsed through my rib cage onto my stomach, and I was a mess of caving in and sputtering and leaking like something broken."
This dazzling debut New Adult novel ultimately explores the concept of identity in young relationships, and what it means when the love of your life makes you less of yourself rather than more of yourself. Unforgettable and unmissable, Closure is the book you'll read whenever you feel like flipping through the pages of your own first love story, reliving what was and wondering what could've been.
If you have a soft spot for coming-of-age/New Adult novels, and have previously wept over the likes of Eleanor & Park, Why We Broke Up, The Light We Lost, and The Way We Were (both book/film adaptation), this, my friends, is the book for you.
"In that moment, something small and sure inside of me dipped. The world didn’t stop spinning — I wasn’t struck by Cupid’s arrow — but it felt like you were someone important. Like you would maybe be important for a very, very long time."
When Morgan meets Wade for the first time as a freshman in high school, all she has to go by is a feeling — a "knowing" without knowing that this athletic, musical, studious perfect stranger with the wide blue eyes and easy smile is going to affect her life forever. The thing about intuition? It's seldom wrong.
So begin the next six years of a shared life, from sweet-sixteen first kisses in a dark movie theater to the weighted and poignant experience of intimacy. Morgan and Wade grow up together, inseparable from their early days in an exclusive, Catholic prep school bubble through their first taste of real-world independence at college in Philadelphia. As they experience the exhilarating, passionate, and intense emotions that embody first love, embarking on adventures that include overpriced restaurants, quiet coffeeshops, costume contests, 2 a.m. food runs, and perilous rooftop excursions, only one thing threatens Morgan and Wade's relationship: their incompatible faith differences. Though they were both raised Catholic, faith is an integral aspect of Morgan's life. For Wade, it's a cultural part of his background that he'd rather leave behind.
As time goes on, the divide between the two grows more and more irreconcilable, rendering the issue unavoidable as Morgan and Wade both embrace their adult identities and outgrow the kids they once were. When Morgan's beliefs begin affecting the very nature of her relationship with Wade, both are left questioning how — and whether it's even possible — to move forward. What do you do when the person you love most is incompatible with the person you long to be? Do you choose your partner, or do you choose yourself?
"In those moments, I allowed myself to feel everything that I was going to feel for you; for us. About what it would be like to not know you, to not love you anymore. And my throat closed and my heart collapsed through my rib cage onto my stomach, and I was a mess of caving in and sputtering and leaking like something broken."
This dazzling debut New Adult novel ultimately explores the concept of identity in young relationships, and what it means when the love of your life makes you less of yourself rather than more of yourself. Unforgettable and unmissable, Closure is the book you'll read whenever you feel like flipping through the pages of your own first love story, reliving what was and wondering what could've been.
June 30, 2020
I can count on one hand the number of books I’ve read in two sittings and now Closure makes the list. It is a 21st century story that understands the excitement of small thrills in romance and exuberant young love; like giddiness at receiving Facebook messages and heart emoji’s, and nights out in Philadelphia with good food and friends, to the later heart dropping moments of that matured love, like God and the search for meaning.
This novel will hit home to young generations for it is one of the first love story’s I’ve read that grasps the unspoken tug-of-war the heart: wanting the pull of pure blissful romance... AND the unapologetic desire for time to grow in autonomy.
Closure shows what bravery it takes in the fight for real, authentic love; of self, others, and God.
Todd’s narrative as a novelist conveys an ease for storytelling that is wildly romantic at the core. Being someone who reads the last line of a book first, I am blown away that Todd‘s first published novel has the best ending line of a book I have ever read.
This novel will hit home to young generations for it is one of the first love story’s I’ve read that grasps the unspoken tug-of-war the heart: wanting the pull of pure blissful romance... AND the unapologetic desire for time to grow in autonomy.
Closure shows what bravery it takes in the fight for real, authentic love; of self, others, and God.
Todd’s narrative as a novelist conveys an ease for storytelling that is wildly romantic at the core. Being someone who reads the last line of a book first, I am blown away that Todd‘s first published novel has the best ending line of a book I have ever read.
August 8, 2020
A young couple fall heavy in love, life is everything you dream of and read about.
Wade is the center of Morgan's world. However, from the beginning, they face life difference that threatens to tear their relationship apart. Though they were both born and raised Catholic, Morgan can't live with the choices she has made over the year's, In time They both can't see eye to eye on religion values.
When Morgan begins making her values a priority, both parties struggle to accept the changers in their relationship This comes to mind" You can't make people into what you want them to be or change them". Morgan starts to doubt their forever future together.
This book had me from the start of seeing the cover its Breathtaking and heart-wrenching all in one. Closure is something we all have felt and been though, that feeling of thinking it will last forever then outgrowing that person as you both grow up and what different things in life.
Wade is the center of Morgan's world. However, from the beginning, they face life difference that threatens to tear their relationship apart. Though they were both born and raised Catholic, Morgan can't live with the choices she has made over the year's, In time They both can't see eye to eye on religion values.
When Morgan begins making her values a priority, both parties struggle to accept the changers in their relationship This comes to mind" You can't make people into what you want them to be or change them". Morgan starts to doubt their forever future together.
This book had me from the start of seeing the cover its Breathtaking and heart-wrenching all in one. Closure is something we all have felt and been though, that feeling of thinking it will last forever then outgrowing that person as you both grow up and what different things in life.
August 20, 2020
I have been given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I have to give Author Lindsey Todd a big congratulations on this beautiful story of young love and faith and the attempt to make it all work together in the big beautiful city of Philadelphia. Once you pick up this book, you will not want to put it down. It makes you feel so uplifted and at the same time, pulls at your heart strings. This book takes you back to your first young love and all the the emotions and questions about your faith all tied in to an awesome story. I would highly recommend this book!! 5 stars!! A must read!!!
I have to give Author Lindsey Todd a big congratulations on this beautiful story of young love and faith and the attempt to make it all work together in the big beautiful city of Philadelphia. Once you pick up this book, you will not want to put it down. It makes you feel so uplifted and at the same time, pulls at your heart strings. This book takes you back to your first young love and all the the emotions and questions about your faith all tied in to an awesome story. I would highly recommend this book!! 5 stars!! A must read!!!
November 18, 2024
Is it possible to rate a book twice? Three times? Maybe four?
I bawled like a baby at the end of this book. Boy, did I not know how much I would resonate with the FMC and the struggles she faced in her relationship. I was able to find answers for feelings I’d never understood, and that I thought no one else had ever experienced. closure helped heal parts of me I didn’t even know were still broken. closure will hold a special place in my heart forever 🩷
Lindsey, I know you’ll read this cause it’s your book, but just know everything I wrote above is the truth in every way. Thank you for healing parts of my heart I didn’t even know I needed healed.
I bawled like a baby at the end of this book. Boy, did I not know how much I would resonate with the FMC and the struggles she faced in her relationship. I was able to find answers for feelings I’d never understood, and that I thought no one else had ever experienced. closure helped heal parts of me I didn’t even know were still broken. closure will hold a special place in my heart forever 🩷
Lindsey, I know you’ll read this cause it’s your book, but just know everything I wrote above is the truth in every way. Thank you for healing parts of my heart I didn’t even know I needed healed.
August 30, 2020
First of all, we would like to thank the author for a free Advanced Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Closure is an excellent novel which brilliantly portrays the inner battle and struggles undergone by a girl, firmly convinced in her Catholic faith, while dating a guy who is lukewarm in his faith life.
Morgan, the protagonist of the novel, is a staunch and committed Catholic. Nothing testifies to this more that her own words: “I chose my identity in Christ at that moment. I chose to be Catholic, to stand rooted in my faith, for more than just the reason that I was raised with it or because I shared it with my family. I chose it not because I was afraid of the potential of Hell, or because I was afraid of God Himself. I chose my faith and all that it taught because I’d finally realized that it was the only authentic way I could truly love both Christ and you”. On another occasion she claims: “The main problem was that, at my core, I didn’t want to not be a practicing Catholic. I genuinely loved and appreciated my faith, although I didn’t always understand it or want to abide by its doctrines.” This girl of such a strong faith falls in love with Wade, a lukewarm Catholic who doesn’t value his faith at all and starts to date him. In the get go, things weren’t that difficult as Morgan could manage the relationship rightly prioritizing her Catholic faith and moral principles. But, things starts to turn around as the relationship grew. Little by little, she begins to compromise with her Catholic faith and moral standards to please Wade. Though Morgan wished to keep the relationship chaste, she could not. Confessing the same sin against chastity over and over again becomes a norm for her. She goes to the confessional just to get rid of the guilt that entailed the crossing of the physical boundary of chastity. She is in a tussle with herself to be true to her convictions and she grapples with God in prayer to transform Wade to be a man of faith who could accompany her in her pursuit of God. The struggle and pain Morgan had to go through in the process of making a decision regarding the relationship is poignantly depicted in the novel. It was too late when Morgan articulated what she really wanted from Wade: “…I need to be with a Catholic man,”.
The novel clearly throws light on the importance of being ultra-prudent while choosing the person whom you date and the consequences one has to go through otherwise. Once you are into a wrong relationship, it would become very difficult to ignore the core differences even when warning bells ring in your head. The folly in missionary dating could also be clearly inferred from the novel. Dating has got a definite purpose and it is not to evangelize or bring a drastic transformation in the other.
The author has also been successful in scattering shining pearls of Catholic wisdom all throughout the novel.
Great work Lindsey Todd! Expecting more works like this in the future which can potentially deepen youth in the virtue of chastity…
Closure is an excellent novel which brilliantly portrays the inner battle and struggles undergone by a girl, firmly convinced in her Catholic faith, while dating a guy who is lukewarm in his faith life.
Morgan, the protagonist of the novel, is a staunch and committed Catholic. Nothing testifies to this more that her own words: “I chose my identity in Christ at that moment. I chose to be Catholic, to stand rooted in my faith, for more than just the reason that I was raised with it or because I shared it with my family. I chose it not because I was afraid of the potential of Hell, or because I was afraid of God Himself. I chose my faith and all that it taught because I’d finally realized that it was the only authentic way I could truly love both Christ and you”. On another occasion she claims: “The main problem was that, at my core, I didn’t want to not be a practicing Catholic. I genuinely loved and appreciated my faith, although I didn’t always understand it or want to abide by its doctrines.” This girl of such a strong faith falls in love with Wade, a lukewarm Catholic who doesn’t value his faith at all and starts to date him. In the get go, things weren’t that difficult as Morgan could manage the relationship rightly prioritizing her Catholic faith and moral principles. But, things starts to turn around as the relationship grew. Little by little, she begins to compromise with her Catholic faith and moral standards to please Wade. Though Morgan wished to keep the relationship chaste, she could not. Confessing the same sin against chastity over and over again becomes a norm for her. She goes to the confessional just to get rid of the guilt that entailed the crossing of the physical boundary of chastity. She is in a tussle with herself to be true to her convictions and she grapples with God in prayer to transform Wade to be a man of faith who could accompany her in her pursuit of God. The struggle and pain Morgan had to go through in the process of making a decision regarding the relationship is poignantly depicted in the novel. It was too late when Morgan articulated what she really wanted from Wade: “…I need to be with a Catholic man,”.
The novel clearly throws light on the importance of being ultra-prudent while choosing the person whom you date and the consequences one has to go through otherwise. Once you are into a wrong relationship, it would become very difficult to ignore the core differences even when warning bells ring in your head. The folly in missionary dating could also be clearly inferred from the novel. Dating has got a definite purpose and it is not to evangelize or bring a drastic transformation in the other.
The author has also been successful in scattering shining pearls of Catholic wisdom all throughout the novel.
Great work Lindsey Todd! Expecting more works like this in the future which can potentially deepen youth in the virtue of chastity…
August 4, 2020
In Closure, we experience all of the emotions, highs and lows of a first love. Morgan and Wade have been together since they were sixteen, and the two have now grown apart. The book is Morgan’s love letter to Wade, as she tells her side of their story and relives her first love all over again. They were both raised Catholic, with Morgan fully embracing her beliefs whereas Wade falls away from them. As the pair hit more milestones in their relationship, Morgan realises her commitment to religion must now become a priority in her life, causing tension and confusion as Wade struggles to understand her beliefs. Morgan tries her best to ignore the seeds of doubt in her mind as she loves Wade more than anything, but their differences only begin to worsen and she can no longer put them aside.
It’s been so long since I read a first love YA story and it was nice to revisit this type of book! I loved the beginning of Morgan and Wade’s relationship as they both relish in the pure bliss of young love and the excitement that comes with it. It was refreshing to read a novel that focused so much on religion and the divide it can cause between those who don’t understand the commitment to faith. Morgan and Wade’s story showed us how they started to outgrow their relationship as they began adulthood, and that they could no longer make the sacrifices required for the other to be happy.
It’s been so long since I read a first love YA story and it was nice to revisit this type of book! I loved the beginning of Morgan and Wade’s relationship as they both relish in the pure bliss of young love and the excitement that comes with it. It was refreshing to read a novel that focused so much on religion and the divide it can cause between those who don’t understand the commitment to faith. Morgan and Wade’s story showed us how they started to outgrow their relationship as they began adulthood, and that they could no longer make the sacrifices required for the other to be happy.
July 26, 2020
I absolutely loved Closure! Your debut novel expresses the whole gamut of emotions experienced in a romantic relationship - feeling the excitement and thrill of a first love; sharing joy through mutual experiences; the feeling of security anticipating a life together; and overcoming rough patches and gravel roads encountered in all relationships. Additionally, as Morgan's love matured, she faced the reality of hard decisions that would impact her life, including the ultimate heartbreak from a severed love. I know this theme is explored in numberless stories and novels throughout literature, but I am sure it is rarely captured with the emotion and literary skill used in your story. We always grow through loss, if we want to, and Closure provides a glimpse into that path of growing, toward the ultimate purpose in our lives, to live with God’s will in our hearts.
August 23, 2020
I'm a big lover of young adult romance books, but I usually find it so hard to find one that not only is enjoyable and mature but also lines up with my morals, but Closure managed to check all of those boxes. The writer has a way of stringing each word and sentence together that you really want to just keep reading and reading and never put the book down. I loved the way the Catholic faith was a major theme in the novel because I feel there is definitely a lack of these types of reads out there. Overall, it was really amazing, the point-of-view the author uses is very intriguing, and I would highly recommend this to anyone! [I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review]
November 15, 2020
Closure is the first romance novel I ever read. I was delighted with the literary style, story, and character treatment I experienced from this debut novel by Lindsey Todd. The story moves along quickly with a natural rhythm that feels genuine and refreshing honesty.
The main characters, Morgan and Wade, meet in high school, friends at first, then naturally become girlfriend/boyfriend, and then the story blooms. With concise and extraordinary detail, readers are led through a compelling plot that weaves in and out of Philadelphia and its suburbs, seamlessly adding Morgan’s spiritual and personal growth through her college years, and Wade’s resistance to her growth. Many scenes bring back familiar college memories for me in Philadelphia – parties, concerts, city lights and skyline views, restaurants, food, buses, trains and subways.
Mundane events are elevated to intriguing encounters due to the extraordinary descriptive detail, seasoned with the constant, ever present emotional struggle experienced by Morgan as she struggles to come to terms with how her lifestyle contradicts the truth based on her deep faith.
The skillful narration develops the main characters through a relationship that tugs with increasing tension in the midst of many shared experiences, like cooking together in apartments, and dining in fine restaurants, walking through city streets, and just enjoying life together. But increasing spiritual revelations present Morgan with challenges that are ultimately addressed in the novel, and answering the question of who is the Lord of our lives.
The main characters, Morgan and Wade, meet in high school, friends at first, then naturally become girlfriend/boyfriend, and then the story blooms. With concise and extraordinary detail, readers are led through a compelling plot that weaves in and out of Philadelphia and its suburbs, seamlessly adding Morgan’s spiritual and personal growth through her college years, and Wade’s resistance to her growth. Many scenes bring back familiar college memories for me in Philadelphia – parties, concerts, city lights and skyline views, restaurants, food, buses, trains and subways.
Mundane events are elevated to intriguing encounters due to the extraordinary descriptive detail, seasoned with the constant, ever present emotional struggle experienced by Morgan as she struggles to come to terms with how her lifestyle contradicts the truth based on her deep faith.
The skillful narration develops the main characters through a relationship that tugs with increasing tension in the midst of many shared experiences, like cooking together in apartments, and dining in fine restaurants, walking through city streets, and just enjoying life together. But increasing spiritual revelations present Morgan with challenges that are ultimately addressed in the novel, and answering the question of who is the Lord of our lives.
September 7, 2020
Relatable as a Diary
Todd's debut novel is a must-read for anyone who's had to navigate a coming-of-age romantic relationship that calls their entire worldview into question. I usually don't like books centered around teen romance. But Todd's protagonist, Morgan, is such a compelling narrator in such a relatable series of life events that I just couldn't help falling in love. The book reads like a diary confessional, portraying the rise and fall of Morgan's relationship with Wade and a deep-dive into her own identity. Awkwardly beautiful high school dances and exciting first kisses give way to exploring and navigating the real world, complete with snowy days of Netflix and cookie dough. Morgan's struggle to reconcile her Catholic identity with her desires could have been excerpts from me and my college friends' diaries. The author has lovingly inserted details like contemporary song associations and TV shows in a nostalgic homage to the late 00s and early 10s. Great worldbuilding, made me feel like I was really in a teenager's head again. I feel like I just read something big before its popularity exploded. Highly recommend. I'd love to read more books like this.
(On a personal note, I particularly related to the protagonist as a young millenial Catholic, but I would definitely recommend this book to anyone regardless of faith. The Catholic aspects are presented as the protagonist's cultural identity and are not heavy-handed or preachy.
Todd's debut novel is a must-read for anyone who's had to navigate a coming-of-age romantic relationship that calls their entire worldview into question. I usually don't like books centered around teen romance. But Todd's protagonist, Morgan, is such a compelling narrator in such a relatable series of life events that I just couldn't help falling in love. The book reads like a diary confessional, portraying the rise and fall of Morgan's relationship with Wade and a deep-dive into her own identity. Awkwardly beautiful high school dances and exciting first kisses give way to exploring and navigating the real world, complete with snowy days of Netflix and cookie dough. Morgan's struggle to reconcile her Catholic identity with her desires could have been excerpts from me and my college friends' diaries. The author has lovingly inserted details like contemporary song associations and TV shows in a nostalgic homage to the late 00s and early 10s. Great worldbuilding, made me feel like I was really in a teenager's head again. I feel like I just read something big before its popularity exploded. Highly recommend. I'd love to read more books like this.
(On a personal note, I particularly related to the protagonist as a young millenial Catholic, but I would definitely recommend this book to anyone regardless of faith. The Catholic aspects are presented as the protagonist's cultural identity and are not heavy-handed or preachy.
August 7, 2020
X I’d like to thank the author, Lindsey Todd for a free ARC in exchange for a completely honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. X
Full review at: http://thebibliophagist.org/?p=475
Morgan will never be able to experience the city of Philadelphia without the memories that come with it. At the beginning of their relationship, Morgan and Wade are inseparable but their differences soon become a significant strain. Growing up Catholic, Morgan and Wade have very different attitudes toward the religion which may compromise their feelings toward each other as the bitterness and resentment build.
This book documents the span of a relationship as two people drift apart and back together again. However, years of disagreements may escalate to a breaking point. If the relationship doesn’t survive, will Morgan and Wade ever find closure?
I love the fact that this book was written in the second person. It’s not often you find a book written in this manner and it’s not often you find one that is actually executed properly. Lindsey Todd proves she’s very comfortable writing from this perspective as everything felt natural and flowed nicely. It made perfect sense to write from this POV as the entire book came off as a cathartic way for Morgan to share her story.
One issue I had with this book was Morgan and Wade’s relationship. While sweet at times, it was incredibly unhealthy and toxic most of the time. It is perfectly understandable that relationships are never perfect (and they should never be portrayed as perfect), but Morgan never realized how poorly he treated her. In her eyes, Wade could do no wrong and she placed false expectations on him. I did appreciate the fact that working through such issues is very common in young love but I would have liked Morgan to mature by the end of the relationship to prove some character growth.
This book was basically the opportunity to read a diary that spans an entire relationship. It seems very cathartic to write and release your feelings in this way but I felt as if I was infringing on a poor girl’s privacy. I wish readers were able to actually see Morgan really move on or that some grand purpose was revealed at the end. With the ominous tone regarding their relationship, I actually expected a catastrophic event to occur rather than more break-up dramatics. The plot lacked an actual story and instead felt like a repetitive documentation of a relationship’s course.
I adored the fact that Catholicism was deeply discussed in the context of young love. Religion is often a taboo subject in books, especially stories about teen/adult romantic relationships but Todd approaches it with clarity and purpose! Differences in religious beliefs is a common issue couples face and it lacks attention in this genre. I love that Morgan refused to compromise her beliefs and eventually found closure in her relationship with Wade.
Despite a few minor notes, I really enjoyed reading this book. I am in awe of Lindsey Todd’s talent as a writer and I look forward to reading more from her! Follow this young author before she makes her debut, and consider checking out this book. Anyone can relate to this story and the desire to find closure after a particularly difficult break-up.
Full review at: http://thebibliophagist.org/?p=475
Morgan will never be able to experience the city of Philadelphia without the memories that come with it. At the beginning of their relationship, Morgan and Wade are inseparable but their differences soon become a significant strain. Growing up Catholic, Morgan and Wade have very different attitudes toward the religion which may compromise their feelings toward each other as the bitterness and resentment build.
This book documents the span of a relationship as two people drift apart and back together again. However, years of disagreements may escalate to a breaking point. If the relationship doesn’t survive, will Morgan and Wade ever find closure?
I love the fact that this book was written in the second person. It’s not often you find a book written in this manner and it’s not often you find one that is actually executed properly. Lindsey Todd proves she’s very comfortable writing from this perspective as everything felt natural and flowed nicely. It made perfect sense to write from this POV as the entire book came off as a cathartic way for Morgan to share her story.
One issue I had with this book was Morgan and Wade’s relationship. While sweet at times, it was incredibly unhealthy and toxic most of the time. It is perfectly understandable that relationships are never perfect (and they should never be portrayed as perfect), but Morgan never realized how poorly he treated her. In her eyes, Wade could do no wrong and she placed false expectations on him. I did appreciate the fact that working through such issues is very common in young love but I would have liked Morgan to mature by the end of the relationship to prove some character growth.
This book was basically the opportunity to read a diary that spans an entire relationship. It seems very cathartic to write and release your feelings in this way but I felt as if I was infringing on a poor girl’s privacy. I wish readers were able to actually see Morgan really move on or that some grand purpose was revealed at the end. With the ominous tone regarding their relationship, I actually expected a catastrophic event to occur rather than more break-up dramatics. The plot lacked an actual story and instead felt like a repetitive documentation of a relationship’s course.
I adored the fact that Catholicism was deeply discussed in the context of young love. Religion is often a taboo subject in books, especially stories about teen/adult romantic relationships but Todd approaches it with clarity and purpose! Differences in religious beliefs is a common issue couples face and it lacks attention in this genre. I love that Morgan refused to compromise her beliefs and eventually found closure in her relationship with Wade.
Despite a few minor notes, I really enjoyed reading this book. I am in awe of Lindsey Todd’s talent as a writer and I look forward to reading more from her! Follow this young author before she makes her debut, and consider checking out this book. Anyone can relate to this story and the desire to find closure after a particularly difficult break-up.
August 28, 2020
Closure reads as a long letter from the narrator to her first love, Wade. Written in second person, it creates a closer feeling of intimacy, drawing the reader closer to Morgan and her growing internal conflict concerning her relationship. The reader knows from the very beginning that Morgan and Wade do not last and the novel works like a romance novel in reverse, detailing how the two went from being madly in love to realizing they were better apart.
Unfortunately, the action and the pacing are bogged down by an overreliance on telling versus showing. Similarly, there are side events that are briefly mentioned which could have made this a more gripping narrative, such as Morgan’s time in Paris. Instead, the plot focuses almost completely on how the relationship slowly reached its denouement. While this in itself was enough for me to keep reading, Morgan’s other experiences and how they further shaped her would have greatly added to the story.
As other reviewers have mentioned, Wade becomes problematic early on. His behavior raises numerous red flags, yet Morgan clings to her early memories and puppy love feelings, brushing aside each incident as a one-time event. Many will relate to being blinded by young love. While it’s easy to question why she didn’t suddenly leave, it’s unfortunately realistic for someone to stay in a relationship where the partner’s behavior becomes increasingly troublesome. With so much of her young adult life tied up with Wade and his family, and with Wade often promising to do better, Morgan struggles with making the right decision.
I appreciated the emphasis on Morgan’s faith and how that guided her decisions without the references coming across as preachy or as proselytizing. Rather, her faith was a growing part of her character and something she knew mattered personally to her. She does compromise it a few times due to Wade’s pushiness or insistence, but even in the beginning this bothers her. Her wavering feelings and ability to make excuses as a teen compared to her determination to live in a way that made her feel comfortable and at east felt like an accurate representation of how many of us grow into who we are as a person from those kernels planted in our childhood.
Due to the issues outlined above, I’m giving this book a rating of 3.5. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review but this did not influence my rating.
Unfortunately, the action and the pacing are bogged down by an overreliance on telling versus showing. Similarly, there are side events that are briefly mentioned which could have made this a more gripping narrative, such as Morgan’s time in Paris. Instead, the plot focuses almost completely on how the relationship slowly reached its denouement. While this in itself was enough for me to keep reading, Morgan’s other experiences and how they further shaped her would have greatly added to the story.
As other reviewers have mentioned, Wade becomes problematic early on. His behavior raises numerous red flags, yet Morgan clings to her early memories and puppy love feelings, brushing aside each incident as a one-time event. Many will relate to being blinded by young love. While it’s easy to question why she didn’t suddenly leave, it’s unfortunately realistic for someone to stay in a relationship where the partner’s behavior becomes increasingly troublesome. With so much of her young adult life tied up with Wade and his family, and with Wade often promising to do better, Morgan struggles with making the right decision.
I appreciated the emphasis on Morgan’s faith and how that guided her decisions without the references coming across as preachy or as proselytizing. Rather, her faith was a growing part of her character and something she knew mattered personally to her. She does compromise it a few times due to Wade’s pushiness or insistence, but even in the beginning this bothers her. Her wavering feelings and ability to make excuses as a teen compared to her determination to live in a way that made her feel comfortable and at east felt like an accurate representation of how many of us grow into who we are as a person from those kernels planted in our childhood.
Due to the issues outlined above, I’m giving this book a rating of 3.5. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review but this did not influence my rating.
August 25, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When I first began Closure, I was excited. Skillful Catholic fiction, especially of the YA variety, is a neglected category. Furthermore, Lindsey Todd's style, while sometimes too wordy, shows promise. However, the potential of what this book could have been fell short of being realized by the last page.
First, the story is rather one-note. There is no sub-plot or secondary conflict; all 200+ pages consist of the heroine's memories of her nearly-perfect but ultimately doomed relationship. We know that the relationship is doomed because the heroine explains as much on page 2 of the first chapter. Since we know the outcome of the main plot from the get-go, it's difficult to stay interested.
Secondly, the author struggles to "show" instead of telling. Her style is very descriptive, sometimes too much so. I found myself devoting too much attention to the extraneous adverbs and adjectives to lose myself in the story.
Finally, I felt that the book portrayed the heroine's internal struggle believably, but missed an opportunity to enrich the plot by displaying God's plan for marriage and intimacy, and His redemption of sinners. The book could have explored how sin (sexual sin, in this case) harms those perpetrating it; how a relationship built on sin experiences more problems than just sexual tension; and how, after repenting of such sin, God can redeem one's heart as well as their story. Instead, the conflict centered almost solely around the famed "Catholic guilt," and thus, in my opinion, carried less weight than it otherwise could have.
That said, Closure is not without its merits. It is indeed a foray into an oft neglected subcategory of literature, and it promotes Christian values in a way that feels genuine. If nothing else, it portrays the Christian heroine in a sympathetic light, rather than casting her as crazy or mentally weak, as many mainstream YA novels might do. The writer is not at all talentless; rather she shows great promise. While I would not necessarily recommend Closure , I would read Lindsey Todd's work again, as I am interested to watch her style evolve.
When I first began Closure, I was excited. Skillful Catholic fiction, especially of the YA variety, is a neglected category. Furthermore, Lindsey Todd's style, while sometimes too wordy, shows promise. However, the potential of what this book could have been fell short of being realized by the last page.
First, the story is rather one-note. There is no sub-plot or secondary conflict; all 200+ pages consist of the heroine's memories of her nearly-perfect but ultimately doomed relationship. We know that the relationship is doomed because the heroine explains as much on page 2 of the first chapter. Since we know the outcome of the main plot from the get-go, it's difficult to stay interested.
Secondly, the author struggles to "show" instead of telling. Her style is very descriptive, sometimes too much so. I found myself devoting too much attention to the extraneous adverbs and adjectives to lose myself in the story.
Finally, I felt that the book portrayed the heroine's internal struggle believably, but missed an opportunity to enrich the plot by displaying God's plan for marriage and intimacy, and His redemption of sinners. The book could have explored how sin (sexual sin, in this case) harms those perpetrating it; how a relationship built on sin experiences more problems than just sexual tension; and how, after repenting of such sin, God can redeem one's heart as well as their story. Instead, the conflict centered almost solely around the famed "Catholic guilt," and thus, in my opinion, carried less weight than it otherwise could have.
That said, Closure is not without its merits. It is indeed a foray into an oft neglected subcategory of literature, and it promotes Christian values in a way that feels genuine. If nothing else, it portrays the Christian heroine in a sympathetic light, rather than casting her as crazy or mentally weak, as many mainstream YA novels might do. The writer is not at all talentless; rather she shows great promise. While I would not necessarily recommend Closure , I would read Lindsey Todd's work again, as I am interested to watch her style evolve.
August 25, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4, because the main quarrels I had with this book can probably be written up to the fact that romance is not my genre of choice and (not having read much romance) I can only guess that these issues are tropes of the genre rather than failings of the book itself.
Closure is a deceptively simple story about first love and, of course, a first break-up. It perfectly captures the heady rush of a high school crush and spells out the following relationship in such carefully constructed details that the story felt real, like a love story I somehow already knew, the romance you watch a close friend or sister go through.
And now for the reason I couldn't give it full stars: the plot is the love story. There wasn't anything else moving the story along. Progression is spelled out in this anniversary dinner at a fancy restaurant or that night eating cookie dough and watching a movie. There are endless scenes of Morgan and Wade being cute and checking off every Pinterest relationship bucket list item. I got a little lost and bogged down in repetitive detailing of a perfect relationship and, to be honest, my interest waned. We know from the beginning that Morgan and Wade eventually break up, but 90% of the book is just them being cute and going on dates and navigating college life (filtered 100% through the lens of a relationship). I was hoping for more plot to move the pace along, but I do understand that this is a romance and (from what I understand of romances) the plot usually orbits around the relationship. In this case, the plot was the relationship.
Overall, I recommend this book for romance and chick-flick aficionados. It was very well written, the prose flowed, and I hardly felt like I was 'reading,' but rather simply experiencing the story effortlessly. It is a love story of the 21st century with all our era's pitfalls and complications slowly eroding two young people's love for each other. The characters are vivid and the scenes vibrant. The plot is simple, but still manages to touch on deeper issues and promises hope to people in similar circumstances.
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4, because the main quarrels I had with this book can probably be written up to the fact that romance is not my genre of choice and (not having read much romance) I can only guess that these issues are tropes of the genre rather than failings of the book itself.
Closure is a deceptively simple story about first love and, of course, a first break-up. It perfectly captures the heady rush of a high school crush and spells out the following relationship in such carefully constructed details that the story felt real, like a love story I somehow already knew, the romance you watch a close friend or sister go through.
And now for the reason I couldn't give it full stars: the plot is the love story. There wasn't anything else moving the story along. Progression is spelled out in this anniversary dinner at a fancy restaurant or that night eating cookie dough and watching a movie. There are endless scenes of Morgan and Wade being cute and checking off every Pinterest relationship bucket list item. I got a little lost and bogged down in repetitive detailing of a perfect relationship and, to be honest, my interest waned. We know from the beginning that Morgan and Wade eventually break up, but 90% of the book is just them being cute and going on dates and navigating college life (filtered 100% through the lens of a relationship). I was hoping for more plot to move the pace along, but I do understand that this is a romance and (from what I understand of romances) the plot usually orbits around the relationship. In this case, the plot was the relationship.
Overall, I recommend this book for romance and chick-flick aficionados. It was very well written, the prose flowed, and I hardly felt like I was 'reading,' but rather simply experiencing the story effortlessly. It is a love story of the 21st century with all our era's pitfalls and complications slowly eroding two young people's love for each other. The characters are vivid and the scenes vibrant. The plot is simple, but still manages to touch on deeper issues and promises hope to people in similar circumstances.
August 14, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! :)
Closure was something that was both in and out of my comfort zone. Being Catholic and reading about someone’s journey was familiar but hearing it from a fiction stand point was something new. The fact that this is a romance novel was out of my usual taste but finding some of the struggles and joys Morgan had were relatable.
The fact is that these characters were believable and I felt like friends I would know in my everyday life. The dialogue felt grounded and consistent. My favorite part was the last 50 pages when Morgan really has to face the music. Her development soars and we see her evolve into something beautiful. She realizes what true love is and where to find it. By the end I was say, “oh, girl knows what she’s talking about!”
Yet, I felt like I was missing some of her journey with Christ for most of the book. It felt too external at times and I was getting an in-depth look at Morgan and Wade’s relationship ( and sometimes too in-depth for my taste ) but I wasn’t experiencing the same depth in her prayer life even if she wasn’t as close to Jesus.
I was happy with the conclusion though, but there was definitely two love stories happening in this book. The one with Wade and the one with God. I was just wishing her love story with Christ was even further explored throughout the book. Overall though, the writing was good and vivid, the relatability was high, and the characters were believable! :)
Closure was something that was both in and out of my comfort zone. Being Catholic and reading about someone’s journey was familiar but hearing it from a fiction stand point was something new. The fact that this is a romance novel was out of my usual taste but finding some of the struggles and joys Morgan had were relatable.
The fact is that these characters were believable and I felt like friends I would know in my everyday life. The dialogue felt grounded and consistent. My favorite part was the last 50 pages when Morgan really has to face the music. Her development soars and we see her evolve into something beautiful. She realizes what true love is and where to find it. By the end I was say, “oh, girl knows what she’s talking about!”
Yet, I felt like I was missing some of her journey with Christ for most of the book. It felt too external at times and I was getting an in-depth look at Morgan and Wade’s relationship ( and sometimes too in-depth for my taste ) but I wasn’t experiencing the same depth in her prayer life even if she wasn’t as close to Jesus.
I was happy with the conclusion though, but there was definitely two love stories happening in this book. The one with Wade and the one with God. I was just wishing her love story with Christ was even further explored throughout the book. Overall though, the writing was good and vivid, the relatability was high, and the characters were believable! :)
August 27, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I rated this book a 3.5, that I rounded up to 4 for this review. Overall I liked this book but there were a few things missing for me. I wish there was another subplot or conflict in the story. It was very linear from start to finish. The story was a reflection on a couples relationship from start to finish. I could’ve used more from the two main characters after they broke up or a little more about the other characters in their lives. The story focused only on the main characters and didn’t get into much detail about other people they knew.
I also didn’t connect with the faith aspect of the book. I’m not Catholic so I couldn’t relate to big theme of Catholic Guilt. While I could respect the inner conflict that the main character was having, I didn’t always understand how she was feeling. I also understand feeling guilt, but her guilt felt like so much more than regular guilt. Religion aside, it was a really cute love story about high school sweet hearts. I also liked the length of the book, it wasn’t too long but it covered the many year relationship between the main characters.
I also didn’t connect with the faith aspect of the book. I’m not Catholic so I couldn’t relate to big theme of Catholic Guilt. While I could respect the inner conflict that the main character was having, I didn’t always understand how she was feeling. I also understand feeling guilt, but her guilt felt like so much more than regular guilt. Religion aside, it was a really cute love story about high school sweet hearts. I also liked the length of the book, it wasn’t too long but it covered the many year relationship between the main characters.
August 19, 2020
Thank you so much to the author Lindsey Todd (@veritaswords) for giving me this eARC in exchange for my honest and unbiased review (Release Date | 28 August 2020)
SYNOPSIS | Morgan & Wade are each others first love and the story follows their relationship as they both figure out who they are, who they want to become and what that means to each other. Both were raised Catholic and while Morgan embraces her religion & tries to make her values a priority, Wade chooses a different path.
WHAT I LIKED:
- I am an athiest so I was a little bit anxious about Catholicism being a prominent factor in this story, however I thought the discussion was executed wonderfully and I still found elements of the story highly relatable (like the all-consuming first love feeling)
- all of the Philadelphia references
- knowing that the relationship had ended but still getting to experience the highs and lows of it
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
- I would have loved an epilogue to see where Morgan was 10 years after the last chapter
SYNOPSIS | Morgan & Wade are each others first love and the story follows their relationship as they both figure out who they are, who they want to become and what that means to each other. Both were raised Catholic and while Morgan embraces her religion & tries to make her values a priority, Wade chooses a different path.
WHAT I LIKED:
- I am an athiest so I was a little bit anxious about Catholicism being a prominent factor in this story, however I thought the discussion was executed wonderfully and I still found elements of the story highly relatable (like the all-consuming first love feeling)
- all of the Philadelphia references
- knowing that the relationship had ended but still getting to experience the highs and lows of it
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
- I would have loved an epilogue to see where Morgan was 10 years after the last chapter
August 29, 2020
When I first was given the opportunity to read this book, I was a little hesitant about it, but Lindsey is a wonderful author and her story was very well written. I loved how realistic her characters felt, and how they struggled through things that others can truly relate to, and they didn't just get a "storybook fix"
I enjoyed the writing style as well, how it was written as a lovely journal account to Wade of how they loved each other.
Overall, I did enjoy this book as a nice read, but was turned off a bit by some of the language and sexual content in it, as a christian book. I was understandably necessary to get the point across, but just a little disappointing for someone who likes cleaner reads.
This was a good 3.5 star read! Thank you Lindsey for sharing your book with me.
I enjoyed the writing style as well, how it was written as a lovely journal account to Wade of how they loved each other.
Overall, I did enjoy this book as a nice read, but was turned off a bit by some of the language and sexual content in it, as a christian book. I was understandably necessary to get the point across, but just a little disappointing for someone who likes cleaner reads.
This was a good 3.5 star read! Thank you Lindsey for sharing your book with me.
June 9, 2022
Closure is a captivating, endearing, and heart-breaking story of first love. Initially, I was unsure of how I would like the story told in a second-person format, but Todd made it work perfectly. I remained engaged and felt intimately connected to the characters throughout. I definitely think this fits best in a ‘new adult’ category, as it reads from the perspective of a young adult, but I would hesitate to recommend to younger teens due to some content. Still, I think this story could be cathartic for some and cautionary for others – for anyone, especially young women, who have been torn by the teachings of their faith, the expectations of the world, and their own desires. Todd has proven herself to be a compelling storyteller with a knack for romance, and I look forward to seeing more from her.
August 24, 2020
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
“Closure” is definitely out of my “reading comfort zone”, but I was pleasantly pleased.
“Closure” is about Morgan and Wade and their battles to keep love’s flame alive while living in two separate cities and having two separate faiths.
Morgan is a devote catholic and she wants nothing more than for Wade to join in he devotion. Wade on the other hand, does not understand why her faith is so important.
I would give Closure a 2 out of 5. It was really well written, but there was something missing for me. I would recommend this book for YA. It’s definitely a great coming of age and understanding not all relationships are meant to last.
I am excited to see what other books Lindsey writes!
“Closure” is definitely out of my “reading comfort zone”, but I was pleasantly pleased.
“Closure” is about Morgan and Wade and their battles to keep love’s flame alive while living in two separate cities and having two separate faiths.
Morgan is a devote catholic and she wants nothing more than for Wade to join in he devotion. Wade on the other hand, does not understand why her faith is so important.
I would give Closure a 2 out of 5. It was really well written, but there was something missing for me. I would recommend this book for YA. It’s definitely a great coming of age and understanding not all relationships are meant to last.
I am excited to see what other books Lindsey writes!
August 27, 2020
"I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review," and I would like to start by saying thank you very much Lindsey Todd, for reaching out, and letting me be one of the few lucky ones, to have first hands on reading your debut Novel. I want to congratulate you for a job well done and for this amazing milestone in you’re journey as a writer.
“But faith is... everything. It’s sacrifice. It’s mercy. It’s authentic love it’s the whole reason why we were created.” @veritaswords
I absolutely enjoyed reading it! I connected with Morgan on so many levels! All the emotion was so real for me. As a young adult and woman of faith I can surely say that this story will touch all who get the chance to read it.
“But faith is... everything. It’s sacrifice. It’s mercy. It’s authentic love it’s the whole reason why we were created.” @veritaswords
I absolutely enjoyed reading it! I connected with Morgan on so many levels! All the emotion was so real for me. As a young adult and woman of faith I can surely say that this story will touch all who get the chance to read it.
August 28, 2020
Wow wow wow, what a beautiful coming to age story. The book really highlighted the importance of finding your identity. Closure is beautifully written, it really describes the characters vividly. The story is captivating and speaks volumes about finding our own voice. This book does an amazing job portraying life stages, religion and love . You will fall in love with the characters, and cheer them on through their life journey. Closure is a beautiful book, strongly recommend!!!
"I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review"
"I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2023
I really enjoyed the story’s honest portrayals of a young, first love with passion and tension. I could relate to that!
However,
I felt uncomfortable with several moments in the book where Morgan, the main character, (strong catholic faith) slut shames/judges other girls. There are parts where she also acts as if she were morally superior to her boyfriend and others because she was religious and they weren’t.
Besides that, I enjoyed the book!
However,
I felt uncomfortable with several moments in the book where Morgan, the main character, (strong catholic faith) slut shames/judges other girls. There are parts where she also acts as if she were morally superior to her boyfriend and others because she was religious and they weren’t.
Besides that, I enjoyed the book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2020
Closure.
Closure stirred up a lot of mixed emotions in me, some good, some bad.
First, the writing was SPECTACULAR! The wording and storyline was amazing, and so easy to read! What I didn’t care for, though, was the cursing and all of the drinking. The characters, however, were So believable! The ending left me wishing that there was a second part to it. An overall good read
Closure stirred up a lot of mixed emotions in me, some good, some bad.
First, the writing was SPECTACULAR! The wording and storyline was amazing, and so easy to read! What I didn’t care for, though, was the cursing and all of the drinking. The characters, however, were So believable! The ending left me wishing that there was a second part to it. An overall good read
April 22, 2024
Felt flat, like a diary or stream of consciousness, with repetitive themes, little character development, and no meaningful arcs. Ideally this would have been a 30 page short story, because each anecdote felt like just more of the same for hundreds of pages. I skimmed many pages as I ran out of patience early on.
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