This rom-com was an easy, fun, sometimes to laugh out loud read, with a great chronic illness rep. It also addresses the process of healing after an abusive relationship in a sensible and well-executed manner. But I ended up not loving it as much as I expected, thus the 3-stars.
The first few chapters were thoroughly entertaining. The main characters are relatable and even lovable and I enjoyed not only the flirty banter but also how their relationship grows from haters to friends to lovers. And how real and healthy their love is (“I’m something without you and I’ll survive without you, but I don’t fucking want to”).
Unfortunately, the slow burn led to steamy scenes that felt jarring and cringeworthy. Although the story has a sweet tone overall, it suddenly seems completely focused on Red and Chloe’s physical attraction, and then Red is cracking out some smutty dirty talk, and I’m just… OMG, please stop it, man, I can’t! Honestly, I would prefer to see more of those silly e-mail exchanges.
As for the last ⅓ of the book, the conflict was expected but still felt unnecessary and heavy-handed, especially because it was resolved so quickly. In hindsight, I wish I had seen more family interactions (more Eve, more Danika, definitely more Gigi!) and Chloe's relationship with Annie (I feel like the author missed the opportunity to show the beginnings of an amazing female friendship). Other than that, definitely enjoyable.
Reviewed by Rach Wood on
Reading updates
- 13 February, 2022: Started reading
- 13 February, 2022: on page 0 out of 384
- 15 February, 2022: Finished reading
- 16 February, 2022: Reviewed