justinenoon82 's review for:

Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter

4.0

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing 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

---

The book succeeds both as a rom-com and as a deeper exploration of grief and growth

---

Content Warnings

Moderate: Grief, Death of parent

Minor: Cursing, Sexual content, Alcohol

The book deals with the death of Liz's mother, which happened before the story begins but influences much of Liz's character and motivations. Her love of rom-coms stems from watching them with her mother, and this connection adds emotional depth to what might otherwise be a straightforward romantic comedy. The resolution involves not just romantic love but also Liz's acceptance of her stepmother and healing from her loss.