A review by tothineshelfbetrue
The Heart Principle by Helen Hoang

emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

CW: anxiety/depression, emotional manipulation, gaslighting, caregiver burnout, suicidal thoughts 

I don't think I have the words for how good this book is; I read it in one day which really speaks for itself. the romance itself was sweet and beautiful and I loved how Quan was so attentive to how Anna was feeling and was a safe space for her to do what she wanted not what was expected of her. but the real heart of the story was Anna: her relationship with the world around her, her ASD diagnosis, her finding the voice to stand up for herself. I loved watching her growth but it was difficult; I had an ache in my chest the whole time and I just wanted her to find relief. I appreciated the author's note immensely. We're in the midst of a caregiving crisis and though fictional, Helen Hoang provided a raw portrayal of what caregivers go through. 

it really was a moving read and if you're in the right headspace, I definitely recommend it. thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Romance for an e-ARC!