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A review by jessread_s
Love Unwritten by Lauren Asher
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Thank you to Valentine PR and the author providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story contains topics that may be sensitive to some readers. CW include: self harm, parental abandonment, mentions of spousal and parental abuse, parental neglect, mentions of death of a parent (off-page), vision loss.
Review: This book is like a song I’d play on repeat!
This story contains topics that may be sensitive to some readers. CW include: self harm, parental abandonment, mentions of spousal and parental abuse, parental neglect, mentions of death of a parent (off-page), vision loss.
Review: This book is like a song I’d play on repeat!
“Love Unwritten” follows Rafael Lopez, a struggling workaholic, and Ellie Sinclair, a songwriter hired to watch and teach music to his son. For eight months, the two coexist without any issues until a vacation changes everything. Fourteen days. Two islands. And an undeniable attraction that blurs lines whether they like it or not.
Rafael and Ellie’s love story tugged my heartstrings! The two are opposites in every way, but they could not be more perfect for each other. Asher is the queen of writing compelling characters and I could not get enough of reading from their respective points-of-view. I felt so seen by Rafael’s inclination to prioritize the happiness of others and Ellie’s fear of confrontation.
“Love Unwritten” is tonally a little different from Asher’s previous books in that she broaches darker subjects like self harm and parental abandonment. I appreciate her taking great care in capturing Rafael’s trust issues and Ellie’s urge to take her emotions out on herself, detailing where those behaviors stem from and how each character copes. Through their point-of-views, the reader is privy to their internal battles and their respective journeys to healing.
Rafael and Ellie’s relationship development made me so emotional! They find each other when they need each other most. Watching them become more comfortable with themselves, their pasts, and each other made my heart so happy. Throughout the trip, the two confide in each other, letting down their walls so they can love each other fully. Their love also manifests in Nico. I love how Asher dedicates time to establishing a relationship between Rafael, Ellie, and Nico. Ellie’s unconditional devotion to Nico despite having no relation to him is so wholesome and the family unit they create made the ending all the more perfect.