A review by cinderellasbookshelf
All Rhodes Lead Here by Mariana Zapata

hopeful lighthearted reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.75

I’ve seen this book around and now having read it, I know it'll be a book I’ll look back on and recommend. It’s partly a romance, but at the heart of it is a story about finding yourself and home again.

Aurora De La Torre has decided to return to Pagosa Springs, Colorado. It was a place she once called home many years ago before her mom disappeared while hiking, and where she hopes to start anew following her divorce from a famous musician. Never did she expect however, that in this small community she would have a new found family, let alone find love by way of a game warden named Tobias Rhodes.

At first, I worried that this was going to be too lengthy at 500+ pages, but as it got going I didn’t mind it. I noticed how much Mariana Zapata takes the time to really develop and flesh out her characters realistically without it feeling like it dragged on. I got to know who Aurora was and saw her growth throughout. Her hiking trips were not only a way for her to feel close to her mom, but were a reflection of her own self-journey to who she once was and towards who she is now. I also loved how she reconnected with her old friend, Clara, while forming new friendships with Amos, Jackie, and Rhodes.

I think what I loved most though, was how Mariana Zapata gradually builds Rhodes and Aurora’s relationship. There is a trust that forms naturally before they fall for each other that takes its time to breathe without forcing it or speeding it up too quickly. It's a slow burn to say the least, but the development is worth it because in that time you feel a genuine connection between them.

After enjoying this so much, I’m already looking forward to reading the rest of Mariana Zapata’s books, but this one will probably still be my favorite.
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