A review by lklitup
Only When It's Us by Chloe Liese

funny lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Willa is a strong woman— mentally, emotionally, and physically— but can’t seem to find her voice when it comes to expressing what she needs or wants. Ryder is a strong man— mentally, emotionally, and physically— who can’t always voice himself when it comes to his expression. Each experience similar problems at a very base level, but their reasons are vastly different.

I loved this novel for the palpable chemistry between Willa and Ryder. That’s what a contemporary romance is all about! Okay, and also the personal growth of the main characters.

That said, I was pulled out of this novel more often than not for lack of realism. The brother-in-law professor who crosses the boundaries WAY too often? The reconnection between war buddies? The national-team-level soccer player? Some of it seemed too out of touch for me to be woven seamlessly into the parts I loved.

I will continue to read and support Chloe Liese and the Bergman family— though more for the laughs, sex, and H.E.A. than for the connection to reality. 
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