A review by niffler_for_words
Pit Stop by Ellis Mae

emotional informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

“We’re just pit stops in each other’s lives.”

I wish I could rate higher than 5 stars. This book left me shaking, panting, full of feelings. I loved everything in it, from the so well built characters to the themes, from the sensitivity to the writing style, not to forget about the illustrations which open each chapter. 

It was a story about challenges, second chances in life, opening yourself to others, affirming your identity the way you decide to, and family “legacy”. I won’t lie, it was a ride, the author plays with our emotions all along. However, thanks to the great balance in their narration, we are allowed to breathe between two difficult or “charged” moments. I loved the use of language, how I literally felt what the characters went through beautiful and breathtaking moments. These characters were so reliable, flawed and lovable, people we would love to have in our life. The “found family” theme lingered above the whole story as a helping hand to soothe –but not magically erase– all these life’s challenges.

The romance was at the same time a central and and secondary storyline, as the most important was the characters' evolution, their ability to learn how to open and trust each other. John and Isa were two beautiful characters as much as their “bestfriends-sibling-like” and I loved all the interactions. 

A lot of charged themes are discussed (chronic illness, child negligence, racism, trans-identity, addiction, PTSD, disability, …) but it’s always with respect, moderation and tact, and I applaud for that. 

This book will remain in a corner of my head for a long time. It was a magnificent read. 

Thank you Ellis Mae for this story and for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.