A review by saarahnina
What if I Fly? by Jayne Conway

5.0

I have a tendency to describe books as simple, only when it's true of course, but I don't think I've ever described a story as 'complicated'. Needless to say, this book serves as a different kind of story. The story follows Will and Julia, a couple who couldn't possibly be more in love. But things take a turn for the worst when Will's ex, Avery, re-enters his life. Will and Avery had a relationship that ended terribly, and Will feels he owes it to her to look after her. But how can he do this, when he's involved with Julia? Of course, as any woman would, Julia registers that there is something going on: it's painfully obvious to anyone but poor, oblivious, Will that Avery is trying to sabotage their relationship. Does she succeed? Well actually she does- yep, complicated, and I was blindsided by the occurrence. I welcome unpredictability- it was great....But the story doesn't end there: neither Julia nor Will can move on, move past their chapter. They're upset, miserable and more alone than ever. Will they ever find happiness?

I personally felt that this book was successful in that it dealt with such heartbreaking issues, and Conway created such intelligent, intuitive, characters. You could really feel the burden and troubles of the situation. It was fascinating.

Funnily enough, I was reminded of The Notebook while reading this book. This comes as no surprise, but it certainly was a freaky coincidence, considering I had recently read The Notebook, for the first time. Both stories absorb the reader into the character's lives, we get a real sense of the situation and the misery, the joy and elation. All in all, a complicated story with a beautiful finish.

I received this book through NetGalley.