A review by natashaleighton_
A Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The Queen of romantic, magical realism has stolen my heart once again in this enchantingly tender, Schmigadoon-esque tale of heartbreak, healing and second chance romance that has me eager to reread it already! 

As a booklover I’m always wondering what it would be like to meet my favourite characters (or live in my favourite books), so to explore a story that does just that was soo much fun. 

The whimsy of Ashley Poston’s prose, and the immersive charm of the small town setting was phenomenal. As was the detailed, nuanced and relatable cast of characters whose lives I wanted to bask in forever. With possibly haunted toilets, grumpy MIA possums and a community that perfectly embodies the meaning found family — I was pretty glued to my seat and rooting for each and every character to find their HEA. And if you loved The Dead Romantics, you’ll be pleased to know both Benji and Florence make short cameos.

Much like the quaint little village in Beauty and The Beast, the fictional town of Eloraton is a slice of life, Hallmark- movie lovers dream and I enjoyed seeing our protagonist, Elsy, finally begin to work through her personal struggles and confront emotions that’s she’s been bottling up for years. 

Her emotional journey was incredibly cathartic, and one I know many people are bound to relate to. However, for me, it was her childlike joy at getting up close and personal with all her fave characters (and her reactions to them) that really won me over. I don’t want to spoil any of it but just know her actions are pretty much how I imagine we’d all respond if given the same chance. 

The romance was pretty swoon-worthy too and the tense, chemistry-laden interactions with resident grump/ love interest, Anderson were soo good! Their earlier scenes were very enemies to lovers coded (and you all know how much of a sucker I am for that trope.) 

Overall, this was a beautifully written and unputdownable read that pays homage to booklovers (their love of stories and the authors who create them) that fans of whimsy, and romance with a hint of magic should definitely consider checking out.

Also a huge thank you to HQ for the finished copy. 

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