A review by bookishgoob
Hook, Line, and Sinker by Tessa Bailey

funny lighthearted fast-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

4.5

Going into this, I was super excited to go back to Westport. It happened One Summer set this story up so well I think. Part of the way through, the first 10-20% I felt betrayed and kind of bored. But as Hannah got back to Westport I started to feel better and more happy. Watching her relationship with Fox unfold was so beautifully done. I am not a huge friends to lovers fan, it usually just feels like there isn’t enough dramatics for me, but once in a while I find one I enjoy and this was one of them. The spicy scenes were sweet and filled with pining and need. The declarations from each of them felt so pure and warranted. I had wanted them together since he was introduced in IHOS. I saw some complaints in other reviews about Hannah basically being a MPDG for Fox. being his therapist and helping him figure himself out rather than step into her “leading lady” roll like she set out to. However, this story takes place over the course of a few weeks. It’s hard to turn yourself from side character to leading lady over night. I do see where they’re coming from with her being “Fox’s therapist” to an extent. But, she was being a supportive friend. I’ve been the support for my friend while still building up my confidence. It wasn’t a roll she was forced into. She had real depth and Love in her character, she wasn’t there to serve Fox’s plot. They were there to serve each other’s. I’m not used to a HEA like this one. Nothing could have prepared me for the tears of joy that came to my eyes and I finished the last page. I absolutely adored this story, the relationships, the drama, the pining, the being unsure of the others feelings. It felt so absolutely real and filled me with butterflies. I am so happy I read this book (also did anyone else picture JJ from outer banks as fox????) but I am so not ready to leave Westport! I hope we get a Christmas novella or something 😭😭😭 The Westport boys and the Bellinger girls will have my heart in flutters for the foreseeable future! 
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