abookwormwithwine 's review for:

Love, Holly by Emily Stone

4.0

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad 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

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For some reason, I went into Love, Holly thinking I had previously read a book by Emily Stone, but it turns out this is my first and I feel like I need to remedy that immediately. This is only the author's third novel but between the writing and the way it hits, you would think she is a veteran at it. This novel revolves all around grief and loss, so if you're looking for a light and fluffy holiday read, this isn't going to be it. There is a touch of humor in it, but the overall vibe is very melancholy and reflective making this a tearjerker if there ever was one.

If you are looking for an audiobook rec, I would definitely say that is a great way to go with Love, Holly. Heather Long did a fabulous job as the narrator, and I honestly have no idea how she voiced this book without crying because I know I would have. There are a few surprises along the way including one that comes at the end, and I was completely in shock with each one. There is a romance in these pages as well, and I found myself hoping with all my might that families would reconcile, and Holly and Jack would end up together. The emotion in this book cannot be beat, and I have a feeling I just might listen to this again next year!