3.0
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This was a reread for me; I have been listening to the Fated Mates podcast, and this is the next deep dive episode in my catch up. I didn't have a clear memory of this book, so I reread it to have it fresh in my mind.

This book didn't pop for me on a first read, and it still didn't on a reread. I don't feel like the HEA is earned, and don't feel the chemistry between the two leads. Miranda fell in love with Turner when she was ten, and I don't think Quinn does enough to convince the reader that it is anything more than infatuation or puppy love for a best friend's older brother who was nice to her. Turner's character also doesn't ring true. He is established as this cold, closed-off, scarred man, but it doesn't feel believable. 

Pregnancy plays a central role in the novel, which didn't work for me in this book, how it impacts when Turner realizes he loves Miranda.

It's a Julia Quinn novel though, so it is easy and enjoyable to read, if not my favorite.