parisbrownebooks 's review for:

Heathen and Honeysuckle by Sarah A. Bailey

5.0

emotional inspiring medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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 Oh god, this was heartbreaking and healing all at the same time. I absolutely loved the way the dual timeline was done, spliced in amongst the “now” portion. Slowly getting more context and a deeper understanding for these characters just made it a delicious read.
My whole heart was ripped apart for what Darby (and honestly, Dahlia too) went through at the hands of their parents in the name of purity culture. But seeing how the summer with Leo started to change her, and how he slowly brought her back when they’re reunited was just beautiful. I loved that Leo didn’t hold resentment or anger, and gave her so much space. The relationship between the two of them was so perfect. Nobody deserves their HEA more than these two.
The spice was also perfect, and the mutual masturbation scene in the bathroom is going to love rent free in my head for years to come.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series- I loved the glimpses of Dahlia we got and I’m excited to see her get her dues