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Hello, Stranger
From their very first date, Jamie and Lucy know they've met THE ONE.
They're as different as night and day. Jamie's a home bird, while Lucy's happiest on holiday. He has a place for everything - she can never find her keys.
Yet, somehow, they make each other happier than they ever thought possible.
So why does their story start with them saying 'goodbye'?
And does this really have to be the end . . . ?
They're as different as night and day. Jamie's a home bird, while Lucy's happiest on holiday. He has a place for everything - she can never find her keys.
Yet, somehow, they make each other happier than they ever thought possible.
So why does their story start with them saying 'goodbye'?
And does this really have to be the end . . . ?
431 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2022
42 people are currently reading
641 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 21, 2022
Well my goodness what a surprise Hello, Stranger was. This is not the usual light-weight romance, its filled with such intense emotion and feeling. I cannot express how many emotions I went through whilst reading this stunningly beautifully written story. It’s wonderful structure takes you over alternating chapters, from the day of Jamie’s and Lucy’s break up flashing back to how they met. I honestly can’t delve too deeply into the story for fear of giving away any spoilers but suffice to say Hello, Stranger is a very special book that will stay with me for a long time.
Taking Jamie’s and Lucy’s feelings and points of view into consideration there was only one feasible way this story could end and it broke my heart into a million pieces. It’s absolutely brilliant. This is a heartbreakingly romantic story that every romance lover needs to read, but make sure you have tissues at the ready.
Thank you so much to the publisher for the gifted proof.
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Taking Jamie’s and Lucy’s feelings and points of view into consideration there was only one feasible way this story could end and it broke my heart into a million pieces. It’s absolutely brilliant. This is a heartbreakingly romantic story that every romance lover needs to read, but make sure you have tissues at the ready.
Thank you so much to the publisher for the gifted proof.
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June 5, 2022
Hello Stranger is a book that is heart-breaking and beautiful that shows that sometimes relationships aren’t all that we want them to be.
The story of Lucy and Jamie begins with their break up, and then the reader is taken on the journey of their relationship as they reflect on the good and bad times. Rachel Marks shows their relationship through the emotions of both points of view, swapping between their characters. The story highlights the ups and downs that you can face, as well as some of the compromises you can make and the consequences of them.
What was beautifully approached in this book was that sometimes, despite loving someone a lot, it is better to go separate ways when you both want different things. Although those moments were heart-wrenching to read, it brought clarity to the idea that sometimes the hardest things in life will being better things.
Lucy is presented as someone who knows what she wants in a relationships but is floating through life, working a mundane job to live and to ignores the other things she wanted in life. Jamie’s is seen as having it all put together with his well paid career, desire for the normal married life and eventually children. Their journey together allowed them both to realise what they truly wanted out of life and how they were going to get there
Overall, Rachel Marks provides a romance that has a happily ever after just not between the main characters. This unique story shows the reality of what some relationships can fall to. Even though it is a sad story to read, it was beautifully written to the point that it provided clarity and realisation that life doesn’t always go to plan.
The story of Lucy and Jamie begins with their break up, and then the reader is taken on the journey of their relationship as they reflect on the good and bad times. Rachel Marks shows their relationship through the emotions of both points of view, swapping between their characters. The story highlights the ups and downs that you can face, as well as some of the compromises you can make and the consequences of them.
What was beautifully approached in this book was that sometimes, despite loving someone a lot, it is better to go separate ways when you both want different things. Although those moments were heart-wrenching to read, it brought clarity to the idea that sometimes the hardest things in life will being better things.
Lucy is presented as someone who knows what she wants in a relationships but is floating through life, working a mundane job to live and to ignores the other things she wanted in life. Jamie’s is seen as having it all put together with his well paid career, desire for the normal married life and eventually children. Their journey together allowed them both to realise what they truly wanted out of life and how they were going to get there
Overall, Rachel Marks provides a romance that has a happily ever after just not between the main characters. This unique story shows the reality of what some relationships can fall to. Even though it is a sad story to read, it was beautifully written to the point that it provided clarity and realisation that life doesn’t always go to plan.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2023
The best way to describe Hello, Stranger is an anti-love story. Why? Because the couple breaks up in the beginning.
Jamie and Lucy are polar opposites. Whilst Lucy is outgoing and adventurous, Jamie is an introvert and prefers comfort. But, somehow their opposites just work and are perfect for each other. Nothing could possibly cause them to reevaluate their relationship- apart for one big deal breaker: Lucy's choice not to have children.
For Jamie, having a family of his own one day means the world to him. But because he wants to spend the rest of his life with Lucy, he's willing to sacrifice that desire. However, it's tough choosing between a life spent travelling alongside the love of his life and giving up everything he's ever wanted.
I loved how this was structured. The glimpses of the day of the breakup in between the alternating points of view of the past made it easy to connect with the pair. Whilst it wasn't the ending I was hoping for, it was an ending regardless. Maybe, just maybe, all the heartbreak and pain is necessary to place Jamie and Lucy exactly where they're supposed to be.
I wasn't prepared for the feels. AT ALL.
Another 2023 top read!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
Jamie and Lucy are polar opposites. Whilst Lucy is outgoing and adventurous, Jamie is an introvert and prefers comfort. But, somehow their opposites just work and are perfect for each other. Nothing could possibly cause them to reevaluate their relationship- apart for one big deal breaker: Lucy's choice not to have children.
For Jamie, having a family of his own one day means the world to him. But because he wants to spend the rest of his life with Lucy, he's willing to sacrifice that desire. However, it's tough choosing between a life spent travelling alongside the love of his life and giving up everything he's ever wanted.
I loved how this was structured. The glimpses of the day of the breakup in between the alternating points of view of the past made it easy to connect with the pair. Whilst it wasn't the ending I was hoping for, it was an ending regardless. Maybe, just maybe, all the heartbreak and pain is necessary to place Jamie and Lucy exactly where they're supposed to be.
I wasn't prepared for the feels. AT ALL.
Another 2023 top read!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
August 14, 2022
Oh my what a heartbreaker of a story. Filled with love and emotion this is one read you’ll need to have the tissues handy for. A roller coaster of a story I felt every emotion following Jaimie and Lucy. I loved the two points of view storytelling- it really added to the depth of the feelings both the characters had. Reliving the reasons why was also a clever storytelling method and again gave more emphasis on who the characters were and why they did the things they did. A beautiful read for sure.
May 6, 2023
A great romantic read with a difference that starts with a break up between two characters that are very much in love. As we flashback to the beginning of their relationship, the reasons of why they break up are hinted at and then confirmed. The reader is taken on an emotional journey, where each chapter is written alternately from both Jamie and Lucy’s perspective. This is my 2nd book written by this author and it won’t be my last.
August 8, 2022
My first Rachel Marks read and it was really enjoyable and well written. Definitely a rollercoaster of a read.
It was quite different, starting with a break-up. Alternate POV from Jamie and Lucy, I thought the layout of how it was written was great, getting a snippet of the day of the break-up and then a whole insight to how they met, their relationship, their family and friends. It was so lovely to read, heartbreaking but also beautiful.
I thought it was a great approach and a very realistic story. That despite loving someone, it sometimes is for the best to go separate ways.
The story had a great pace and it had me turning the pages from start to finish.
It was quite different, starting with a break-up. Alternate POV from Jamie and Lucy, I thought the layout of how it was written was great, getting a snippet of the day of the break-up and then a whole insight to how they met, their relationship, their family and friends. It was so lovely to read, heartbreaking but also beautiful.
I thought it was a great approach and a very realistic story. That despite loving someone, it sometimes is for the best to go separate ways.
The story had a great pace and it had me turning the pages from start to finish.
August 29, 2024
Finished August 28th 2024.
This was a book I DNFed in 2022. But I found it on my kindle one day and thought I needed it to see where it led.
Rachel Marks is an awesome writer and I loved her book Saturdays at Noon. In fact I think I need to do a re-read because of the subject matter and how touched I was by it.
The reason I DNFed this book was because I felt no investment to the characters. But 2 years later, 2024, I found that the characters were complicated and still not entirely likeable but I established an understanding. This book is not one I will be quick to forget. I think the writing and the way the characters evolved, the intricacies of the plot revealing itself… I was immersed.
Rachel Marks wrote this book while dealing with breast cancer and the treatment for it. I truly can’t wait to read more of her books because they are incredibly contemporary and have you asking some of life’s big questions.
Trigger Warning: Pregnancy, Miscarriages, Discussion of Abortion.
I received this book from Netgalley for review consideration. All opinions are my own and completely honest.
This was a book I DNFed in 2022. But I found it on my kindle one day and thought I needed it to see where it led.
Rachel Marks is an awesome writer and I loved her book Saturdays at Noon. In fact I think I need to do a re-read because of the subject matter and how touched I was by it.
The reason I DNFed this book was because I felt no investment to the characters. But 2 years later, 2024, I found that the characters were complicated and still not entirely likeable but I established an understanding. This book is not one I will be quick to forget. I think the writing and the way the characters evolved, the intricacies of the plot revealing itself… I was immersed.
Rachel Marks wrote this book while dealing with breast cancer and the treatment for it. I truly can’t wait to read more of her books because they are incredibly contemporary and have you asking some of life’s big questions.
Trigger Warning: Pregnancy, Miscarriages, Discussion of Abortion.
I received this book from Netgalley for review consideration. All opinions are my own and completely honest.
September 5, 2022
⭐️ 4.5 ⭐️
What an emotional rollercoaster ride that was!
Hello, Stranger isn’t your typical, light-hearted love story full of cheesy clichés, it’s one full of depth and raw emotion — a love story with a difference.
Beautifully written, Rachel Marks’ prose is easy to read and the character development is superb. Lucy and Jamie (the two main characters) are likeable (Jamie in particular), well-drawn and relatable. Their witty dialogue always feels natural and believable. I loved seeing their personalities develop and their relationship grow as the story progressed.
Even though it’s quite a chunky book, I flew through it quickly because I was so invested in Lucy and Jamie’s story.
Hello, Stranger made me smile and it also broke my heart. It’s a poignant, bittersweet story and a truly wonderful read.
Many thanks to the publisher for my proof copy, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
What an emotional rollercoaster ride that was!
Hello, Stranger isn’t your typical, light-hearted love story full of cheesy clichés, it’s one full of depth and raw emotion — a love story with a difference.
Beautifully written, Rachel Marks’ prose is easy to read and the character development is superb. Lucy and Jamie (the two main characters) are likeable (Jamie in particular), well-drawn and relatable. Their witty dialogue always feels natural and believable. I loved seeing their personalities develop and their relationship grow as the story progressed.
Even though it’s quite a chunky book, I flew through it quickly because I was so invested in Lucy and Jamie’s story.
Hello, Stranger made me smile and it also broke my heart. It’s a poignant, bittersweet story and a truly wonderful read.
Many thanks to the publisher for my proof copy, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
November 15, 2022
Regardless of Lucy’s views on having children, she is a horrible, selfish character who is impossible to root for. What I did find myself rooting for, was for Jamie to stay gone from her and find his own happiness. Not an enjoyable read.
January 2, 2023
Hello, Stranger will break your heart and make it whole. it's a book you will read in one sitting because you won't want to put it down. It's a real romance that will restore your faith in love.
May 6, 2023
BRB sobbing myself to sleep x
November 21, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
September 13, 2022
Lucy and Jamie have been in a relationship for some time. They are complete opposites but they just work. When the book starts Lucy has decided they should break up but Jamie clearly doesn’t want to. Why did Lucy and Jamie break up? What led to this decision? Should Lucy and Jamie give their relationship another go or are they better off apart.
When I first started to read this book my first thought was that the author had written one of the most amicable breakups I’ve ever seen in a book. But then that made me question why were Lucy and Jamie breaking up when they seemed perfect for each other. They’re opposites but it works between the two of them. They push each other to try new things. For example, Lucy’s quite adventurous when it comes to going on holiday and Jamie pushes himself out of his comfort zone to take on board new experiences. They both get along with each other’s families. They fit into each other’s lives like a complete jigsaw puzzle and as an outsider looking in they have a perfect relationship. However, there is one subject that they have different views on and it’s quite an emotional and thought provoking subject. It makes them question what they truly want and what they are willing to sacrifice to make their partner happy. Even if it means making themselves unhappy and creating a big void in their relationship where that subject is concerned. I loved the story and the writing style so much so that I found it difficult at times to stop reading. The story moves backwards and forwards in time where the reader is given a glimpse into how Lucy and Jamie met and how they have got to where they are today. This isn’t just a romance novel but is also a story about relationships, sacrifice and approaching those difficult subjects in a relationship. As much as it was clear that Lucy and Jamie loved each other immensely they found they had to tackle certain subjects head on to decide whether or not they had a future.
By the time I had finished reading I had mixed emotions. I laughed with the characters, cried with them and felt like I had truly been on an emotional rollercoaster with them. When I turned the last page I felt like I knew both Lucy and Jamie as good friends and that I had been with them and part of their journey. I was quite anxious when I was reading as to how Lucy and Jamie’s story would end. I’m not sure how I thought it would end because the more I read my mind kept changing as to where the story would go. However, I was happy with the ending and it’s what I would have wanted for both of them. The ending for me was bittersweet and realistic.
This was a heart breaking read and is a book and story that I will never forget.
When I first started to read this book my first thought was that the author had written one of the most amicable breakups I’ve ever seen in a book. But then that made me question why were Lucy and Jamie breaking up when they seemed perfect for each other. They’re opposites but it works between the two of them. They push each other to try new things. For example, Lucy’s quite adventurous when it comes to going on holiday and Jamie pushes himself out of his comfort zone to take on board new experiences. They both get along with each other’s families. They fit into each other’s lives like a complete jigsaw puzzle and as an outsider looking in they have a perfect relationship. However, there is one subject that they have different views on and it’s quite an emotional and thought provoking subject. It makes them question what they truly want and what they are willing to sacrifice to make their partner happy. Even if it means making themselves unhappy and creating a big void in their relationship where that subject is concerned. I loved the story and the writing style so much so that I found it difficult at times to stop reading. The story moves backwards and forwards in time where the reader is given a glimpse into how Lucy and Jamie met and how they have got to where they are today. This isn’t just a romance novel but is also a story about relationships, sacrifice and approaching those difficult subjects in a relationship. As much as it was clear that Lucy and Jamie loved each other immensely they found they had to tackle certain subjects head on to decide whether or not they had a future.
By the time I had finished reading I had mixed emotions. I laughed with the characters, cried with them and felt like I had truly been on an emotional rollercoaster with them. When I turned the last page I felt like I knew both Lucy and Jamie as good friends and that I had been with them and part of their journey. I was quite anxious when I was reading as to how Lucy and Jamie’s story would end. I’m not sure how I thought it would end because the more I read my mind kept changing as to where the story would go. However, I was happy with the ending and it’s what I would have wanted for both of them. The ending for me was bittersweet and realistic.
This was a heart breaking read and is a book and story that I will never forget.
August 18, 2022
In many ways Hello, Stranger by Rachel Marks is simply impossible to review. I could just give it all the stars and leave it there.There is so much I want to say about this book and yet to do so would spoil the experience for others. This is a book that needs to be read blind, with tissues and ideally as a buddy to read it with. I will add though that there are TWs to bear in mind with this book.
Hello, Stranger is the story of Lucy and Jamie who, not long after meeting come to realise they are each other’s ‘the one’. They’re chalk and cheese, Lucy a free spirit to Jamie’s homebird. Jamie has a place for everything and yet Lucy can’t even seem to find her keys. And yet they work, so very well together. There’s is a special kind of love and yet why does their story start with them saying goodbye?
The way Marks has written Jamie and Lucy is absolute perfection. The chapters alternate between them both in the ‘day of’ and ‘then’ sections. Never have I read about a couple where I feel so deeply for them both as individual characters. They were so well developed and so very, very real. This is a beautiful, raw, and heartbreaking story in places; and yet it feels so very real and so normal, and I mean that in the absolute best way possible. The characters deal with some very heavy issues and Marks handles them deftly, with so much care and respect. No one is right or wrong, everyone is simply able to feel what they feel, even if that’s different to the other. The respect Marks shows her characters, and indeed her readers, is something else.
This book is so special and will stay with me for some time. Never have I felt the ending of a book to be as heartbreaking as it was utterly perfect. If I could sum this book up with a single word it would be ‘wow’ said, of course, through tears.
With thanks to Netgally and Penguin Michael Joseph for the advanced copy in return for my honest review.
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Hello, Stranger is the story of Lucy and Jamie who, not long after meeting come to realise they are each other’s ‘the one’. They’re chalk and cheese, Lucy a free spirit to Jamie’s homebird. Jamie has a place for everything and yet Lucy can’t even seem to find her keys. And yet they work, so very well together. There’s is a special kind of love and yet why does their story start with them saying goodbye?
The way Marks has written Jamie and Lucy is absolute perfection. The chapters alternate between them both in the ‘day of’ and ‘then’ sections. Never have I read about a couple where I feel so deeply for them both as individual characters. They were so well developed and so very, very real. This is a beautiful, raw, and heartbreaking story in places; and yet it feels so very real and so normal, and I mean that in the absolute best way possible. The characters deal with some very heavy issues and Marks handles them deftly, with so much care and respect. No one is right or wrong, everyone is simply able to feel what they feel, even if that’s different to the other. The respect Marks shows her characters, and indeed her readers, is something else.
This book is so special and will stay with me for some time. Never have I felt the ending of a book to be as heartbreaking as it was utterly perfect. If I could sum this book up with a single word it would be ‘wow’ said, of course, through tears.
With thanks to Netgally and Penguin Michael Joseph for the advanced copy in return for my honest review.
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August 18, 2022
What’s the sign of a great book?
Without a doubt it would have to be if you have trouble putting it down. This is exactly how I felt reading this book.
Opposites can attract but will they end up staying together. After all Lucy is rather a free spirit. She loves to travel. One of the biggest things is that she doesn’t want to have children ever. She is adamant that this is never going to change.
Jamie believes that he can still spend his life with Lucy. He is an utterly adorable character. I wanted to dive into the book and wish I was there with him looking after me. It was clear that his character was utterly in love with Lucy. There are tender moments. But there are also serious ones. He is carrying a heavy secret from his past that he is wary to share with Lucy.
I just loved this book. I will have to seek out Rachel’s other books.
Without a doubt it would have to be if you have trouble putting it down. This is exactly how I felt reading this book.
Opposites can attract but will they end up staying together. After all Lucy is rather a free spirit. She loves to travel. One of the biggest things is that she doesn’t want to have children ever. She is adamant that this is never going to change.
Jamie believes that he can still spend his life with Lucy. He is an utterly adorable character. I wanted to dive into the book and wish I was there with him looking after me. It was clear that his character was utterly in love with Lucy. There are tender moments. But there are also serious ones. He is carrying a heavy secret from his past that he is wary to share with Lucy.
I just loved this book. I will have to seek out Rachel’s other books.
August 19, 2023
What an awful book. I was so surprised, having read the authors previous books which were amazing. This book held so much promise, but I HATED the main character Lucy. She is selfish, shallow, arrogant and just awful. I felt so sorry for Jamie, but also he came across as a huge doormat. I feel I’ve wasted the best part of 3 hours of my life reading this. I’m glad I read quickly but honestly, don’t bother with this one. There are many more better books available. Including the first two by the same author.
October 27, 2023
I adore Rachel’s books and this one was a wonderful read.We follow the journey of Jamie and Lucy beginning at the end of their story.
Crafted in alternate chapters from the perspective of the couple the characterisation is superb.Whilst I half understand why Lucy felt like she did about the important topic that they disagreed on no spoiler)I felt more empathy for Jamie but still loved Lucy.
Love is at the heart of this book.It broke my heart and I was close to tears several times.
Highly recommended
Crafted in alternate chapters from the perspective of the couple the characterisation is superb.Whilst I half understand why Lucy felt like she did about the important topic that they disagreed on no spoiler)I felt more empathy for Jamie but still loved Lucy.
Love is at the heart of this book.It broke my heart and I was close to tears several times.
Highly recommended
July 8, 2025
3.5. omg i'm so glad this ended the way it did ;(
October 7, 2025
☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️
im sad this book made me sad
fuck u rachel marks
ANYWAYYY I love this book omgomgg I just felt like it was such a realistic book because they had a realistic conflict and the process of them meeting and then falling in love and then it not working out was actually shown. I just love it so much
but the ending ☹️ik it was for the best but ☹️in another life ☹️
also I HATE the eavesdropping trope but I LOVED it here cause it actually prevented Lucy from making a mistake but man I still felt so bad for her ☹️
oh and funny story I downloaded this book thinking it was Hello, Stranger by KATHERINE CENTER but like 100 pages in, I properly checked the book cover of the book I was reading (I saw the cover earlier but I still assumed it was by KC because the same books can have different covers) but then saw that it was by Rachel marks LMAOO anyway I kept reading cause why not and yeah it was a happy accident
oh also I absolutely LOVE the ending I love that the 'happy' ending wasn't chosen and instead the more realistic and the one that'll benefit them both down the line was chosen but still IT MADE ME SAD ☹️
ngl i lowkey wasn't vibing it at first (the first part only, legitimately) and was gonna dnf but just decided to keep reading and when I tell you I was HOOKED from chapter 2.
I love the banter between them, genuinely amazing chemistry omgomgomg ahehhe so funny too
although I felt like the side characters were a bit bland, I still adored them so much, theyre special in their own way yk!
now that that's out of the way, I do however have bones to pick with this book.
Lucy. works. at. a. bookstore. Jamie. works. as. an. event. planner. how the FUCK ARE THE AFFORDING ALL THOSE HOLIDAYS??? AND A WHOLE FREAKING THREE BEDROOM HOUSE??? WITH A HUGE GARDEN??? LIKE WHAT
especially Lucy. hows she travelling that much she literally ONLY WORKS AT A BOOKSTORE??? yes I did say this book felt very realistic but this part, not at all. how. are. they. affording. vacations. like. once. every. few. MONTHS. ???
oh and I also didn't like that writing a novel was supposedly a big part of Lucy's life but we rarely saw her actually writing or thinking up ideas for the book. like what?
oh and I feel like she had a victim complex and sometimes twisted up Jamie's words to make him look like the villain, even if it was not the case.
and I feel like she was a bit insensitive to Jamie's situation, even when she finally knew how much having a kid meant to Jamie, she didn't console him much. I'm not saying she should've had a kid, I'm completely on her side for that. her body, her choice. I'm just saying she could've been a bit more sympathetic.
oh but I liked how the actually argued and that the arguments were realistic and that they actually said things to hurt each other because that's what you do when youre angry.
oh but I didn't like how amy was always (LITERALLY ALWAYS) there for her but she didn't provide the same support in return, like I don't think she ever outright said or even suggested that she's always there for amy if she needed her but oh well.
anyway that's pretty much it. regardless of what I've said, I still love this book and I will probably be checking out other Rachel Marks books. and would definitely recommend this too.
im sad this book made me sad
fuck u rachel marks
ANYWAYYY I love this book omgomgg I just felt like it was such a realistic book because they had a realistic conflict and the process of them meeting and then falling in love and then it not working out was actually shown. I just love it so much
but the ending ☹️ik it was for the best but ☹️in another life ☹️
also I HATE the eavesdropping trope but I LOVED it here cause it actually prevented Lucy from making a mistake but man I still felt so bad for her ☹️
oh and funny story I downloaded this book thinking it was Hello, Stranger by KATHERINE CENTER but like 100 pages in, I properly checked the book cover of the book I was reading (I saw the cover earlier but I still assumed it was by KC because the same books can have different covers) but then saw that it was by Rachel marks LMAOO anyway I kept reading cause why not and yeah it was a happy accident
oh also I absolutely LOVE the ending I love that the 'happy' ending wasn't chosen and instead the more realistic and the one that'll benefit them both down the line was chosen but still IT MADE ME SAD ☹️
ngl i lowkey wasn't vibing it at first (the first part only, legitimately) and was gonna dnf but just decided to keep reading and when I tell you I was HOOKED from chapter 2.
I love the banter between them, genuinely amazing chemistry omgomgomg ahehhe so funny too
although I felt like the side characters were a bit bland, I still adored them so much, theyre special in their own way yk!
now that that's out of the way, I do however have bones to pick with this book.
Lucy. works. at. a. bookstore. Jamie. works. as. an. event. planner. how the FUCK ARE THE AFFORDING ALL THOSE HOLIDAYS??? AND A WHOLE FREAKING THREE BEDROOM HOUSE??? WITH A HUGE GARDEN??? LIKE WHAT
especially Lucy. hows she travelling that much she literally ONLY WORKS AT A BOOKSTORE??? yes I did say this book felt very realistic but this part, not at all. how. are. they. affording. vacations. like. once. every. few. MONTHS. ???
oh and I also didn't like that writing a novel was supposedly a big part of Lucy's life but we rarely saw her actually writing or thinking up ideas for the book. like what?
oh and I feel like she had a victim complex and sometimes twisted up Jamie's words to make him look like the villain, even if it was not the case.
and I feel like she was a bit insensitive to Jamie's situation, even when she finally knew how much having a kid meant to Jamie, she didn't console him much. I'm not saying she should've had a kid, I'm completely on her side for that. her body, her choice. I'm just saying she could've been a bit more sympathetic.
oh but I liked how the actually argued and that the arguments were realistic and that they actually said things to hurt each other because that's what you do when youre angry.
oh but I didn't like how amy was always (LITERALLY ALWAYS) there for her but she didn't provide the same support in return, like I don't think she ever outright said or even suggested that she's always there for amy if she needed her but oh well.
anyway that's pretty much it. regardless of what I've said, I still love this book and I will probably be checking out other Rachel Marks books. and would definitely recommend this too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2022
I loved Until Next Weekend so was very excited to dive into this one, and oh my, what a story! It packs an emotional punch from beginning to end and I was absolutely hooked. It’s moving and raw, beautiful and wise, hopeful and real.
Marks crafts such well developed, authentic characters who fully capture your heart. My emotions were wholly invested in Lucy and Jamie’s heartbreaking journey and I enjoyed the unique perspective of starting at the end. I loved the to-ing and fro-ing from past to present as we fully immerse ourselves in their lives and see all that they go through. It was a delight seeing the way they interact, support one another and have a real laugh enjoying each other’s company as they get to know each other and deeper feelings grow.
Lucy has a heart full of adventure, she stands up for what she believes in and feels misunderstood. She faces a lot of pressure from her Mum to meet her expectations and often feels she’s a disappointment. Jamie breezes into her life, he’s easy going, genuine, caring and nurturing his own family pain. They feel truly seen and accepted and their instant chemistry is clear. They really are the perfect couple and as the story unravels I could feel the love overflowing from the pages, which had me wondering how does it go so wrong?
The story perfectly captures the intensity, vulnerability, excitement and insecurities that come with falling in love, and seeing it unfold from both Lucy and Jamie’s eyes gives an all access pass to their thoughts and feelings enabling a deep understanding of both. We see their hopes and dreams and the future they are planning together, and discover what happens when love just isn’t enough.
The beautiful prose fully explore the thought-provoking themes weaved through this poignant story and it’s hard to predict how things will ultimately end. I absolutely adored Jamie and Lucy – their relationship had me welling up, smiling and laughing throughout.
This is the perfect book to lose yourself in – you won’t be able to put it down until you know how things end, and even then Lucy and Jamie’s story will stay with you. If you are looking for a romantic and entertaining read filled with humour, heart and characters you won’t forget this is definitely the book for you.
With thanks to @kalliereads, @MichaelJBooks, & @Rache1Marks for my gorgeous proof copy to read and share my thoughts as part of the tour.
Marks crafts such well developed, authentic characters who fully capture your heart. My emotions were wholly invested in Lucy and Jamie’s heartbreaking journey and I enjoyed the unique perspective of starting at the end. I loved the to-ing and fro-ing from past to present as we fully immerse ourselves in their lives and see all that they go through. It was a delight seeing the way they interact, support one another and have a real laugh enjoying each other’s company as they get to know each other and deeper feelings grow.
Lucy has a heart full of adventure, she stands up for what she believes in and feels misunderstood. She faces a lot of pressure from her Mum to meet her expectations and often feels she’s a disappointment. Jamie breezes into her life, he’s easy going, genuine, caring and nurturing his own family pain. They feel truly seen and accepted and their instant chemistry is clear. They really are the perfect couple and as the story unravels I could feel the love overflowing from the pages, which had me wondering how does it go so wrong?
The story perfectly captures the intensity, vulnerability, excitement and insecurities that come with falling in love, and seeing it unfold from both Lucy and Jamie’s eyes gives an all access pass to their thoughts and feelings enabling a deep understanding of both. We see their hopes and dreams and the future they are planning together, and discover what happens when love just isn’t enough.
The beautiful prose fully explore the thought-provoking themes weaved through this poignant story and it’s hard to predict how things will ultimately end. I absolutely adored Jamie and Lucy – their relationship had me welling up, smiling and laughing throughout.
This is the perfect book to lose yourself in – you won’t be able to put it down until you know how things end, and even then Lucy and Jamie’s story will stay with you. If you are looking for a romantic and entertaining read filled with humour, heart and characters you won’t forget this is definitely the book for you.
With thanks to @kalliereads, @MichaelJBooks, & @Rache1Marks for my gorgeous proof copy to read and share my thoughts as part of the tour.
August 16, 2022
Firstly, I just want to say that I went into this book thinking it was going to be a romance (I mean, it was in the romance category after all) so I was a bit disappointed when I realised it definitely isn’t one (women’s fiction fits this book a lot better). Having said that, I’ll try not to let that affect my review too much.
The premise of the book was good and Jamie and Lucy’s story/dilemma was definitely an important one and I liked following them along but I also feel like the story dragged on multiple occasions and I had a hard time getting through some parts. Also the whole before/during/after structure was a bit messy because of how vague it was.. I mean sure it was before but how long? 2 months? 2 years? Because those are not the same and I never could get a clear picture of how their relationship evolved. And honestly some of the before chapters felt unnecessary, and I thought they didn’t add much to the story and weren’t particularly interesting to read. So yeah, while I liked the the premise of the book and recognise the importance of this type of story, I feel like it could have been executed better.
I feel like I don’t know much about the characters as individuals, if that makes sense. I know them as a couple but not necessarily as people aside from the fact that Lucy is adventurous and doesn’t want kids and Jamie does.
I didn’t love Lucy although I didn’t hate her either. I certainly did feel for her and seeing her going through what she did was emotional for me as well. And Jamie… well, there is no denying he was an amazing guy but he was also a bit of a pushover and let Lucy get her way most of the time. And I feel like that was a huge problem because aside from the whole kids situation, I felt like they barely communicated. And maybe that’s just got to do with the structure of the book, the way it’s divided in 2 (later 3) different times, which perhaps makes it seem like things happened a bit faster (again not know the timeline of the relationship and not knowing when things are happening doesn’t help).
I’ll say though that even though it wasn’t the typical romance HEA (which is fair because this definitely wasn’t a romance), they did get their happy endings, which was good to see but also kind of bittersweet.
I have really mixed feelings about this book… rating it was a struggle because the truth is it’s a great premise, the parts that didn’t drag were really really good, and it is an important story to tell- one that makes you think and is almost agonising because you understand both sides but still want them to figure it out even though you know they won’t. These are two people who truly love each other but unfortunately want different things from life and can’t be together because sometimes love is not enough. And that’s as beautiful as it is heartbreaking.
★ 3.5/5 Stars ★
A big thank to Michael Joseph and Netgalley for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The premise of the book was good and Jamie and Lucy’s story/dilemma was definitely an important one and I liked following them along but I also feel like the story dragged on multiple occasions and I had a hard time getting through some parts. Also the whole before/during/after structure was a bit messy because of how vague it was.. I mean sure it was before but how long? 2 months? 2 years? Because those are not the same and I never could get a clear picture of how their relationship evolved. And honestly some of the before chapters felt unnecessary, and I thought they didn’t add much to the story and weren’t particularly interesting to read. So yeah, while I liked the the premise of the book and recognise the importance of this type of story, I feel like it could have been executed better.
I feel like I don’t know much about the characters as individuals, if that makes sense. I know them as a couple but not necessarily as people aside from the fact that Lucy is adventurous and doesn’t want kids and Jamie does.
I didn’t love Lucy although I didn’t hate her either. I certainly did feel for her and seeing her going through what she did was emotional for me as well. And Jamie… well, there is no denying he was an amazing guy but he was also a bit of a pushover and let Lucy get her way most of the time. And I feel like that was a huge problem because aside from the whole kids situation, I felt like they barely communicated. And maybe that’s just got to do with the structure of the book, the way it’s divided in 2 (later 3) different times, which perhaps makes it seem like things happened a bit faster (again not know the timeline of the relationship and not knowing when things are happening doesn’t help).
I’ll say though that even though it wasn’t the typical romance HEA (which is fair because this definitely wasn’t a romance), they did get their happy endings, which was good to see but also kind of bittersweet.
I have really mixed feelings about this book… rating it was a struggle because the truth is it’s a great premise, the parts that didn’t drag were really really good, and it is an important story to tell- one that makes you think and is almost agonising because you understand both sides but still want them to figure it out even though you know they won’t. These are two people who truly love each other but unfortunately want different things from life and can’t be together because sometimes love is not enough. And that’s as beautiful as it is heartbreaking.
★ 3.5/5 Stars ★
A big thank to Michael Joseph and Netgalley for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2022
How much would you compromise in order to hold on to true love? And is true love enough, when it requires you to give up your dreams?
These are the questions protagonists Jamie and Lucy, who undoubtedly have a once-in-a-lifetime love, must face when they realise Jamie wants children but Lucy emphatically does not.
The novel begins with their break up, and moves backwards through their story, flipping the usual romance plot line on its head. From the start, it sparks your curiosity as to how a relationship that is seemingly so enviable might realistically have come to an end.
Throughout, you see both characters' perspectives, which I think is necessary when exploring topics that often split opinion. I appreciate that Lucy knows what she wants, and what she doesn't want, and is open and honest about it, despite it being contrary to societal norms and misunderstood by a lot of her friends and family.
Lots of the scenes in this book are sad, and there are trigger warnings for child loss, but many scenes are also filled with hope, close family bonds, great supporting characters and genuine joy. It explores the kind of connections that brand your heart forever, and the fact that a relationship doesn't need a happy ever after to have been a life-changing love.
I laughed, I swooned, I cried, and I thoroughly recommend this to anyone who enjoys brave, relatable contemporary romance and La La Land-style endings.
These are the questions protagonists Jamie and Lucy, who undoubtedly have a once-in-a-lifetime love, must face when they realise Jamie wants children but Lucy emphatically does not.
The novel begins with their break up, and moves backwards through their story, flipping the usual romance plot line on its head. From the start, it sparks your curiosity as to how a relationship that is seemingly so enviable might realistically have come to an end.
Throughout, you see both characters' perspectives, which I think is necessary when exploring topics that often split opinion. I appreciate that Lucy knows what she wants, and what she doesn't want, and is open and honest about it, despite it being contrary to societal norms and misunderstood by a lot of her friends and family.
Lots of the scenes in this book are sad, and there are trigger warnings for child loss, but many scenes are also filled with hope, close family bonds, great supporting characters and genuine joy. It explores the kind of connections that brand your heart forever, and the fact that a relationship doesn't need a happy ever after to have been a life-changing love.
I laughed, I swooned, I cried, and I thoroughly recommend this to anyone who enjoys brave, relatable contemporary romance and La La Land-style endings.
August 18, 2022
Rachel Marks has become an author whose books I would pick up without knowing anything about them and in fact, that's almost what happened with Hello, Stranger as the blurb is fairly vague. All we know as the story begins is that Lucy and Jamie have agreed to split up even though neither of them seems to want to. So why on earth are they doing it?
The story is split mainly into 'Before', which forms the majority of the narrative, and 'The Day of the Break Up' and we follow the couple from the glorious day they meet until the heartbreaking day they break up. I loved the two main characters who are perfectly portrayed by Marks so that although I may not have always agreed with one or both of them, I still felt empathy for them and I know there was no right answer to what they were facing.
The writing is superb and I just couldn't put this book down. This is all-consuming love coupled with the realities of everyday life and I really felt for Lucy and Jamie and the dilemma they faced. Marks builds up a life for them that I got completely drawn into and was reluctant to leave, but when it came the ending was emotional and perfect and I think this is a book I will remember, with a storyline that provided a sucker punch to the heart. There are some light-hearted, funny bits too and I loved Jamie's humour (Jamie is really rather special!). A beautiful tale about the ups and downs of love and life, Hello, Stranger was a joy to read from start to finish.
The story is split mainly into 'Before', which forms the majority of the narrative, and 'The Day of the Break Up' and we follow the couple from the glorious day they meet until the heartbreaking day they break up. I loved the two main characters who are perfectly portrayed by Marks so that although I may not have always agreed with one or both of them, I still felt empathy for them and I know there was no right answer to what they were facing.
The writing is superb and I just couldn't put this book down. This is all-consuming love coupled with the realities of everyday life and I really felt for Lucy and Jamie and the dilemma they faced. Marks builds up a life for them that I got completely drawn into and was reluctant to leave, but when it came the ending was emotional and perfect and I think this is a book I will remember, with a storyline that provided a sucker punch to the heart. There are some light-hearted, funny bits too and I loved Jamie's humour (Jamie is really rather special!). A beautiful tale about the ups and downs of love and life, Hello, Stranger was a joy to read from start to finish.
May 23, 2022
Really love how this book is structured. Starting off at the end of what seems like a perfect relationship the reader immediately wonders why Jamie and Lucy are splitting up.
The book then takes us back to the beginning of their relationship and we see their romance develop through the eyes of both Lucy and Jamie with alternating chapters and some flash forward to present day post break up.
The structure worked really well in allowing the reader to journey through the relationship as it develops. I especially loved that we get the story from Jamie's perspective. Books like these dealing with relationship and romance are often one sided but Jamie's voice was essential to build what felt like a full and honest picture of their relationship. He is a strong contender for sweetheart of the year but he has his own issues and worries too.
The angle of a woman not wanting children was a refreshing one. I have friends who feel this way but I have never seen it portrayed in literature as well as this before. The weight of judgement Lucy endures for her decision from everyone from her mother to a shop assistant is smothering but from conversations I’ve had with women who have made the same decision is sadly very true to life.
While this is in some ways your typical light romance it’s also much deeper than that. As well as one of the main characters making the choice not to have children, it touches on abortion, childhood trauma and baby loss.
Great relationships throughout this book. Aside from Jamie & Lucy, Jamies relationship with his best friend is a touching one and the development of his relationship with his mum throughout the book was really well portrayed.
Particularly liked that although the ending was a good one for Lucy & Jamie, it wasn’t the perfect fairytale that one might have expected - it made the story much more believable.
Huge thank you to NetGalley & Michael Joseph for access to an ARC of this book.
The book then takes us back to the beginning of their relationship and we see their romance develop through the eyes of both Lucy and Jamie with alternating chapters and some flash forward to present day post break up.
The structure worked really well in allowing the reader to journey through the relationship as it develops. I especially loved that we get the story from Jamie's perspective. Books like these dealing with relationship and romance are often one sided but Jamie's voice was essential to build what felt like a full and honest picture of their relationship. He is a strong contender for sweetheart of the year but he has his own issues and worries too.
The angle of a woman not wanting children was a refreshing one. I have friends who feel this way but I have never seen it portrayed in literature as well as this before. The weight of judgement Lucy endures for her decision from everyone from her mother to a shop assistant is smothering but from conversations I’ve had with women who have made the same decision is sadly very true to life.
While this is in some ways your typical light romance it’s also much deeper than that. As well as one of the main characters making the choice not to have children, it touches on abortion, childhood trauma and baby loss.
Great relationships throughout this book. Aside from Jamie & Lucy, Jamies relationship with his best friend is a touching one and the development of his relationship with his mum throughout the book was really well portrayed.
Particularly liked that although the ending was a good one for Lucy & Jamie, it wasn’t the perfect fairytale that one might have expected - it made the story much more believable.
Huge thank you to NetGalley & Michael Joseph for access to an ARC of this book.
September 8, 2022
This is an unusual romance because it begins at the end, with Jamie and Lucy separating and she moves out of their house. We’re then taken back to where it all began, their tentative first date, their compatibility but also why they cannot be together, as much as they love each other.
This is not a new story and actually, that might be why it works. I recognised lots of parts of this, either in myself or other people’s relationships, and that’s something Rachel Marks did well in her last novel, "Saturdays at Noon" as well.
I liked both Lucy and Jamie, and Marks does a great job of keeping both characters fairly level - neither is particularly a villain or a hero, both are very human at times and it’s easy to see where they’re both coming from.
The supporting cast of characters were great too, and the inclusion of their families as being affected by their break-up also felt like real life.
In the same way as that’s what makes this story enjoyable to read, it also made it somewhat bland, I’m afraid. I could see the ending coming and it made sense, nothing else would, so it wasn’t a surprise when it finally happened (or didn’t!). I did like it and am glad I read it, but it’s not a story I’ll be talking about in 6 months.
For fans of ‘Five Years Time’ and other Rachel Marks’ novels. Thanks for the DRC Netgalley and Michael Joseph, this is out to buy now!
This is not a new story and actually, that might be why it works. I recognised lots of parts of this, either in myself or other people’s relationships, and that’s something Rachel Marks did well in her last novel, "Saturdays at Noon" as well.
I liked both Lucy and Jamie, and Marks does a great job of keeping both characters fairly level - neither is particularly a villain or a hero, both are very human at times and it’s easy to see where they’re both coming from.
The supporting cast of characters were great too, and the inclusion of their families as being affected by their break-up also felt like real life.
In the same way as that’s what makes this story enjoyable to read, it also made it somewhat bland, I’m afraid. I could see the ending coming and it made sense, nothing else would, so it wasn’t a surprise when it finally happened (or didn’t!). I did like it and am glad I read it, but it’s not a story I’ll be talking about in 6 months.
For fans of ‘Five Years Time’ and other Rachel Marks’ novels. Thanks for the DRC Netgalley and Michael Joseph, this is out to buy now!
September 8, 2022
This book has an interesting format - it starts with a couple (Lucy and Jamie) breaking up then flits back and forth between 'before' and 'the day of the breakup', and later, 'after'. It also switches between Lucy and Jamie's POV. This works really well and keeps you interested. The novel is quite slow paced but rich with detail. Marks expertly interweaves the two points of view and the different timelines so the reader gains different information and perspectives about the same events without it being repetitive. I liked the characters - Jamie is definitely a likeable person and is very kind and understanding, but still realistic in that he also gets annoyed and frustrated. He would clearly do anything for Lucy and is incredibly caring and romantic. Lucy is a free spirit and very self assured. She clearly knows her own mind and sticks to her principles. I didn't identify with Lucy and didn't always agree with her choices or the way she went about things but I think her heart was in the right place and she clearly loved Jamie. The story is well crafted, with a good cast of characters, interesting situations and some emotive subjects. It keeps you questioning and is thought provoking. It left me feeling a little sad but ultimately satisfied.
January 29, 2024
The book 'Hello, Stranger' by Rachel Marks is a beautifully painful love story surrounding the two main characters Jamie and Lucy. This story's narrative follows the young girl Lucy destined to explore the world, and a boy called Jamie fated for a family life. As in any tragic love story, the two opposites fall in love, inevitably breaking hearts in the end, as much as they both try to salvage their relationship after a terrible accident. From ex-boyfriend troubles to mistaken marriages, this story is not one for the weak-hearted and will make any reader grasp at many important lessons within life, emphasising how important family is. Marks' writing immediately entices the reader with her choice of chapter lengths and topics, switching back and forth from past to present. Along with her vivid character description, powerful emotions expressed throughout and the heart-breaking yet comforting ending, this book is most definitely worth reading. I have chosen to rate this book four out of five stars as it outlines delicate however real issues in the world and relationships, while capturing raw passion and underlying love no matter how doomed it may be.
May 17, 2022
I loved Rachel Marks' previous books, so I was excited to read this. Jamie and Lucy are a perfect couple who seem made for each other, but there's one, perhaps insurmountable, issue in their relationship. The beginning of the book sees them splitting up; we move back in time to chart the course of their relationship and how they've arrived at this point.
Hello Stranger was a very readable story and I did get invested in the Jamie/Lucy relationship and really wanted things to work out for them. The dilemma they face - not an unusual one for many couples - is honestly presented with no easy answers, ultimately asking the question: is love enough?
I did wonder how Lucy managed to afford all that travelling and buy a property on her - surely not enormous - salary from working in a bookshop. How many shop workers can casually, on impulse, book a week at an all-inclusive resort in Antigua? (Not to mention all the other places she jets off to.) If it was explained, I missed it, and what seemed a lack of realism bothered me slightly. Nevertheless it was a very good read.
Hello Stranger was a very readable story and I did get invested in the Jamie/Lucy relationship and really wanted things to work out for them. The dilemma they face - not an unusual one for many couples - is honestly presented with no easy answers, ultimately asking the question: is love enough?
I did wonder how Lucy managed to afford all that travelling and buy a property on her - surely not enormous - salary from working in a bookshop. How many shop workers can casually, on impulse, book a week at an all-inclusive resort in Antigua? (Not to mention all the other places she jets off to.) If it was explained, I missed it, and what seemed a lack of realism bothered me slightly. Nevertheless it was a very good read.
July 31, 2022
Time taken to read - in and out over 4 days (as able)
Pages - 431
Publisher - Penguin
Source - ARC
Blurb from Amazon
From their very first date, Jamie and Lucy know they've met THE ONE.
They're as different as night and day. Jamie's a home bird, while Lucy's happiest on holiday. He has a place for everything - she can never find her keys.
Yet, somehow, they make each other happier than they ever thought possible.
So why does their story start with them saying 'goodbye'?
And does this really have to be the end . . . ?
My Review
We start at the end, Jamie and Lucy have broken up, but how can they, they are perfect for each other, they know they have found the one in each other. What happened to bring about their break up?
We hear from both Jamie and Lucy alternative chapters and we go back and forth from present day(ish) when they have broken up but not knowing the how/why. Flicking back to how they met and their relationship as it grows, blooms and ultimately the moment we started, where they break up and what comes after.
This is different in that we start knowing they have split then go through their relationship as it becomes, blooms and breaks. Some of the themes are quite emotive and it is difficult to give a headsup without spoilers which we don't do.
Lucy is a strong woman who has very set ideas on what she wants out of life and isn't interested in the whole conventional expectations of a woman. Jamie loves her so much he just wants them to be together but what happens when things change for one and not the other. We see the judgements Lucy faces and pressure even from her own family, we see the difference in relationship dynamics, husband and wife, son and mother, daughter and mother and babies/children are a huge theme throughout.
I think the book will impact each reader differently dependent upon their own values, experiences and stage in life. Certainly different and I liked that we got both perspectives from a loving and committed couple who find their whole relationship rocked by one incident and the ripples, choices and effects of everything that comes from it. This is my first time reading this author, 4/5 for me this time!
Pages - 431
Publisher - Penguin
Source - ARC
Blurb from Amazon
From their very first date, Jamie and Lucy know they've met THE ONE.
They're as different as night and day. Jamie's a home bird, while Lucy's happiest on holiday. He has a place for everything - she can never find her keys.
Yet, somehow, they make each other happier than they ever thought possible.
So why does their story start with them saying 'goodbye'?
And does this really have to be the end . . . ?
My Review
We start at the end, Jamie and Lucy have broken up, but how can they, they are perfect for each other, they know they have found the one in each other. What happened to bring about their break up?
We hear from both Jamie and Lucy alternative chapters and we go back and forth from present day(ish) when they have broken up but not knowing the how/why. Flicking back to how they met and their relationship as it grows, blooms and ultimately the moment we started, where they break up and what comes after.
This is different in that we start knowing they have split then go through their relationship as it becomes, blooms and breaks. Some of the themes are quite emotive and it is difficult to give a headsup without spoilers which we don't do.
Lucy is a strong woman who has very set ideas on what she wants out of life and isn't interested in the whole conventional expectations of a woman. Jamie loves her so much he just wants them to be together but what happens when things change for one and not the other. We see the judgements Lucy faces and pressure even from her own family, we see the difference in relationship dynamics, husband and wife, son and mother, daughter and mother and babies/children are a huge theme throughout.
I think the book will impact each reader differently dependent upon their own values, experiences and stage in life. Certainly different and I liked that we got both perspectives from a loving and committed couple who find their whole relationship rocked by one incident and the ripples, choices and effects of everything that comes from it. This is my first time reading this author, 4/5 for me this time!
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