A review by radmad_reads
Not in the Plan by Dana Hawkins

inspiring medium-paced

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

4.0

This book is very character-driven and takes place within the same few settings. I often struggle with books that don't have in-depth world-building or plot development, but I enjoyed the growth each character goes through and the relationship they form with each other. By the end of the book, I am so proud of both characters and their journeys. Charlie gives herself the respect she deserves and stands up to those who don't treat her right. Mack realizes that some of her habits can hurt others and develops new ways to create stories for her books. They support and love each other despite their differences and form a beautiful relationship and life with each other that encourages each of them to continue growing and learning from the experiences in their lives. Dana Hawkins writes a beautiful story of personal growth. The characters learn to allow themselves to be vulnerable with those who care about them. This book dives into different family relationships, trials, and traumas of the characters, and as the reader, you follow them as they grow from their pasts.