Scan barcode
A review by lindsaymck
Second First Impressions by Sally Thorne
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
This book was more than I expected it to be! I loved the setting of the retirement community and found Ruthie a lovably adorable FMC. The way she feels rooted to her job, but also unsure of how to move forward and find the romantic connection she seeks is… relatable.
Teddy really grew on me and the connection between him and Ruthie was so fun to listen to. The forced proximity, slow-burn, and found family tropes were *chef’s kiss.* The side characters really enhanced the story and they made such a cute little unit together.
I struggle to recall a book where both main characters grow so much as individuals as they open up to each other. Ruthie’s self-doubt and sometimes crippling need for structure and routine due to her strict parents and the theft blamed on her “carelessness” ‘makes for a true ‘opposites attract’ situation with Teddy’s (sometimes) aggressively chaotic free-spirit. I loved how Sally Thorne built them into being such a good match; Ruthie needs to give herself space and grace to be flexible and grow while Teddy needs to form the meaningful connections and roots he has been fleeing from as a result of the attachment issues from his traumatic childhood.
The turtles are also such a cute little part of the story. 🐢🐢
Teddy really grew on me and the connection between him and Ruthie was so fun to listen to. The forced proximity, slow-burn, and found family tropes were *chef’s kiss.* The side characters really enhanced the story and they made such a cute little unit together.
I struggle to recall a book where both main characters grow so much as individuals as they open up to each other. Ruthie’s self-doubt and sometimes crippling need for structure and routine due to her strict parents and the theft blamed on her “carelessness” ‘makes for a true ‘opposites attract’ situation with Teddy’s (sometimes) aggressively chaotic free-spirit. I loved how Sally Thorne built them into being such a good match; Ruthie needs to give herself space and grace to be flexible and grow while Teddy needs to form the meaningful connections and roots he has been fleeing from as a result of the attachment issues from his traumatic childhood.
The turtles are also such a cute little part of the story. 🐢🐢