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hapalyn's review
funny
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I'd say this is one of Mariana's best build-ups when it comes to character relationship. The scenes where the FMC and MMC interact have such a nice slow, realistic tension. You clearly see the MMC go from tough to soft, and I'd say there were plenty(!!!) of interactions between the two characters that made the relationship seem realistic and REAL.
The backstories of both characters were so real and raw, I think Mariana did such an excellent job fleshing out realistic characters with real problems/trauma and making them so special to watch grow.
I will say, that if you are a person uncomfortable with age gaps, I'd skip this one. Similar to Kulti's age gap, the FMC is 26 or 27 (can't remember) and MMC is 41. It's not awful, it made me scratch my head a few times, personally, but I think it can be looked past. I think unlike some of her other works, the dynamic didn't seem uncomfortable (No "old man" jokes.. like Hands Down... ick for me personally).
I think all side characters were super interesting and fun when they made appearances. The sisters, Mr. Cooper, and Miguel were all some of my favorites.
For others interested in the Mariana-verse, spoilers in case you want to skip: We had a reference to the Reapers from Under Locke, and the Maio house from Hands Down.
Overall, I'd really recommend this book to those who love these tropes:
-Age gap
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-(Adoptive) father figure
-Independent, successful FMC
The backstories of both characters were so real and raw, I think Mariana did such an excellent job fleshing out realistic characters with real problems/trauma and making them so special to watch grow.
I will say, that if you are a person uncomfortable with age gaps, I'd skip this one. Similar to Kulti's age gap, the FMC is 26 or 27 (can't remember) and MMC is 41. It's not awful, it made me scratch my head a few times, personally, but I think it can be looked past. I think unlike some of her other works, the dynamic didn't seem uncomfortable (No "old man" jokes.. like Hands Down... ick for me personally).
I think all side characters were super interesting and fun when they made appearances. The sisters, Mr. Cooper, and Miguel were all some of my favorites.
For others interested in the Mariana-verse, spoilers in case you want to skip:
Overall, I'd really recommend this book to those who love these tropes:
-Age gap
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-(Adoptive) father figure
-Independent, successful FMC
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing and Sexual content
Moderate: Drug use, Alcohol, Child abuse, Emotional abuse, Bullying, and Alcoholism
Minor: Addiction and Death of parent
cariam's review against another edition
emotional
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
It’s no secret I love Mariana Zapata books. Ugh.
Of course it was a glorious slow burn, but it was so satisfying because the plot and the characters were necessary to get to know before the love really kicked you in the gut. Rip and Luna were so wonderful!
Definitely a recommend read!
Of course it was a glorious slow burn, but it was so satisfying because the plot and the characters were necessary to get to know before the love really kicked you in the gut. Rip and Luna were so wonderful!
Definitely a recommend read!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Child abuse, Bullying, and Emotional abuse
Moderate: Drug abuse, Abandonment, and Death of parent
lotte5322's review against another edition
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Violence, Car accident, Child abuse, and Death of parent
baaambiii__123's review against another edition
emotional
lighthearted
relaxing
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Abandonment, Bullying, and Domestic abuse
Moderate: Child abuse, Cursing, and Drug abuse
Minor: Car accident and Alcohol
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