3.87 AVERAGE

sleepysamreads's profile picture

sleepysamreads's review

3.0

I was really hoping this would be better than it was.

I wasn’t terrible, but it was extremely predictable, which was annoying. Meh, it was okay.
emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Interesting story concept. Likeable characters. I enjoyed every page.
emotional hopeful sad medium-paced
emotional hopeful sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I wasn’t expecting this book to focus so much on domestic violence—it’s the main theme and there isn’t really much else the story focuses on, so if you’re not up for that, this one might not be for you. The story is told from Shelley’s perspective, and you uncover her memories along with her, which really keeps you hooked.

The author does a good job handling the topic with sensitivity, and the 
happily-ever-after ending was a nice touch and something I enjoyed, although I acknowledge that this may not be realistic for some (or even most), but I really appreciated it after such a heavy read. 
My favorite part, was Shelley’s friendship with Dee. It’s such a lovely reminder of how important and special female friendships can be and how true friends are there to celebrate your biggest moments, but also pull you through the worst of times.

Overall, this book was heavy in some parts, but I enjoyed the happy, hopeful ending.

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hazjohnart's profile picture

hazjohnart's review

3.0

Strong 2.5 I reckon
hopeful inspiring relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
emotional hopeful mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Story touching on the inter generational cycle of domestic abuse and the hope of being strong enough to come out the other side. 
I thought the twist would be she had been in a coma for 30 years and it was her son visiting her - but it wasn’t. 
Derek’s twist was good though. 

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Nothing wrong with the book, I'm just not feeling it. 
maureenrenee's profile picture

maureenrenee's review

4.0

I flew through this one! Very beautifully written. It reads like a conversation that you’re having with a friend you haven’t seen in awhile….seamless. It’s both heartbreaking and uplifting, and I highly recommend.
hopeful mysterious medium-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: Yes

Beginning part was mystery and really good.  Ending was more romance and I guess it was good too. Very easy read.