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ashlit's review
5.0
An absolute gem among the literary treasures, this story holds a special place in my heart. It's a tale that radiates with a light and sweet essence, brimming with a refreshing originality that instantly captivated me. Among the cast of characters, Cam and Declan shine brightly, but it's the beautifully flawed and intricately layered Adley Adair who truly stole my heart.
As someone who has a soft spot for the classic 'regular girl falling for the Hollywood hunk' narrative, this book not only met but exceeded my expectations.
In the end, this story is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to whisk us away into worlds we never want to leave. It's a reminder that amidst the ordinary and extraordinary, love, growth, and imperfections intermingle to create something truly extraordinary. If you're seeking a read that dances on the edge of heartwarming and heartrending, look no further – this book is a masterpiece in every sense.
As someone who has a soft spot for the classic 'regular girl falling for the Hollywood hunk' narrative, this book not only met but exceeded my expectations.
In the end, this story is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to whisk us away into worlds we never want to leave. It's a reminder that amidst the ordinary and extraordinary, love, growth, and imperfections intermingle to create something truly extraordinary. If you're seeking a read that dances on the edge of heartwarming and heartrending, look no further – this book is a masterpiece in every sense.
veracruzzzzz's review
2.0
I had such high hopes for this book. Reader reviews were enthusiastic. The story was self-contained and sequel-less (which I thought showed promise). However, I found it such an unappealing read.
The author set out to create a unique storyline. Had she succeeded in making it work through and through, this would have been a great standout in a sea of repetitive YA romance novels. But the fact that she never delved that deep into the inescapable trauma, regret, and resentment caused everything to fall a bit flat.
In between what I thought were Beginner 101 observations on love, life and choice, she inserted this inevitable-attraction meaningless-sex relationship thing. I guess that worked so well that I never for a second believed its progression into substantial romantic love.
Adley and Declan were unimpressive human beings. Hinting at how good, selfless and lovable they were isn't the same as showing us. It's not enough to flat-out loud state it. That's just not artful enough.
Now, Cam's character had real potential. A half-heartbroken, inscrutable writer type? I wish he hadn't been absent for 99% of the text. I also wished this very juicy monologue (which I'm about to quote next) had been a touchstone that was worked upon earlier and more extensively:
But what I really hated was the insta-resolution of Adley's issues. One unbelievably convenient conversation is all it took for her to heal herself and work through her issues. No. No. Doesn't work that way.
P.S. - The Australian slang thing got so old so fast.
The author set out to create a unique storyline. Had she succeeded in making it work through and through, this would have been a great standout in a sea of repetitive YA romance novels. But the fact that she never delved that deep into the inescapable trauma, regret, and resentment caused everything to fall a bit flat.
In between what I thought were Beginner 101 observations on love, life and choice, she inserted this inevitable-attraction meaningless-sex relationship thing. I guess that worked so well that I never for a second believed its progression into substantial romantic love.
Adley and Declan were unimpressive human beings. Hinting at how good, selfless and lovable they were isn't the same as showing us. It's not enough to flat-out loud state it. That's just not artful enough.
Now, Cam's character had real potential. A half-heartbroken, inscrutable writer type? I wish he hadn't been absent for 99% of the text. I also wished this very juicy monologue (which I'm about to quote next) had been a touchstone that was worked upon earlier and more extensively:
But when did you stop being in love with me? I didn't agree to that... I let you go. Isn't that what you're supposed to do? If you love someone, then let them go. You were supposed to do what you needed to do, to move on from what happened, and get back to being who you are. You weren't supposed to fall in love with someone else!
But what I really hated was the insta-resolution of Adley's issues. One unbelievably convenient conversation is all it took for her to heal herself and work through her issues. No. No. Doesn't work that way.
P.S. - The Australian slang thing got so old so fast.
letterthief's review
emotional
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
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