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

slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

1.5

The character progression in this book drove me crazy. Hannah's growth happened but largely took a backseat to Fox's. I would maybe be less annoyed by that if her separate character arc focused on that growth. Instead her story was mostly in service to Fox's. How can I help Fox see his true potential?? How can I help him push through his insecurities? Girl don't let this grown-ass man treat you as his therapist! Speaking of therapy, there are several instances of the character scoffing at the idea and how "so LA" therapy is which is just too much given that 90% of the conflict in this book revolves around this man's insecurities. Honestly Fox's internal conflict didn't even make that much sense. He seeks out women to have one night stands with and makes clear that's all it is, but then says women use him for sex? When that only happened one time ever? Yes it was wrong for his mom and the adults in his life to sexualize him when he was young and that is a big issue. Similarly, it is messed up how his coworkers and "friends" talk to him. But the way this was all dragged out until the third act breakup was just exhausting. 

Aside from that, Fox and Hannah had great chemistry so some points for that. 
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