The Ones Who Got Away

by Roni Loren

[Leigha]

I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Let’s start the year off right with a recently released contemporary romance. I snagged an advanced copy of Roni Loren’s The Ones Who Got Away from NetGalley last month. I’m excited to share my thoughts with you all!

The main narrative focuses on the romance between two ex-high school sweethearts. It’s a great romance with well-written and complex characters. Finn and Olivia grow not only as a couple, but as individuals throughout the story. Believable character growth is so important to me, especially in romances. If the romance does nothing to enhance the individual, then what’s the point? The dual point-of-view provides insight into each of them as well as adds some spice during the sex scenes. Additionally, these two individuals have a mature, adult romance. They share their feelings with each other! They talk about their problems! They overlook contrived drama! Talk about refreshing.

These characters are survivors of a mass shooting. Time is spent exploring the fear and anxiety the character’s experience due to their tragic past, but the shooting itself is only referenced. I appreciate the author’s restraint from providing disturbing details. Secondary characters with physical impairments from the shooting would have added more depth to the story.

If you’re looking for an in-depth story about mass shootings, I highly recommend Dave Cullen’s Columbine. It’s a phenomenal exploration of the mass shooting at Columbine High School in 1999. It not only talks about that infamous day, but it includes truly encouraging stories from many survivors of the shooting.

tl;dr A well-written romance featuring complex characters, a steamy romance, and a hopeful message.