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nothingforpomegranted's review
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
When lawyer-turned-civil-servant Alexa Monroe and pediatric surgeon Drew Nichols get trapped in a hotel elevator, sparks fly over cheese and crackers. Drew asks Alexa to pose as his fake girlfriend at his ex's wedding to one of his best friends, and they enjoy a weekend of great chemistry, cute banter, and steamy sex, which quickly turns into regular weekend trips to see each other for more of the same, with the addition of some deliciously described takeout and countless donuts and cups of coffee.
Though our primary couple could have used a few more deep conversations to avoid the mopey chapters (miscommunication is an unfortunate trope of the genre), I generally appreciated Guillory's ability to integrate real-life issues into the story. That Drew and Alexa are an interracial couple is significant to the story without overwhelming their relationship, and I appreciated reading about their interests and personalities beyond the (literal) surface. Alexa's art rehabilitation program for at-risk youth had powerful motivations and legs to stand on, and Drew's relationship with his young patients was heartbreaking and beautiful. I loved the way the characters--Drew and Alexa, as well as all the friends and family that popped in--supported each other and balanced their discussions of serious and playful topics.
Though our primary couple could have used a few more deep conversations to avoid the mopey chapters (miscommunication is an unfortunate trope of the genre), I generally appreciated Guillory's ability to integrate real-life issues into the story. That Drew and Alexa are an interracial couple is significant to the story without overwhelming their relationship, and I appreciated reading about their interests and personalities beyond the (literal) surface. Alexa's art rehabilitation program for at-risk youth had powerful motivations and legs to stand on, and Drew's relationship with his young patients was heartbreaking and beautiful. I loved the way the characters--Drew and Alexa, as well as all the friends and family that popped in--supported each other and balanced their discussions of serious and playful topics.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Cancer, Chronic illness, Medical trauma, and Medical content
Minor: Racial slurs
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