Come to Me Quietly (Closer to You, #1)

by A. L. Jackson

[kimbacaffeinate]

Told from dual perspectives along with flashbacks we gain insight and become swept up in these beautiful, complicated characters. Jared wears his scars in the form of tattoos. As Jackson peeled back his layers, we see his vulnerability and experience his pain. He is filled with rage and guilt and each day is a challenge. Aleena is strong and sweet. She can still see the boy beneath the cold hard exterior, and she slowly and carefully rebuilds their friendship while holding tight to the feelings in her heart along with her secret. The waltz they danced was sweet, painful, soft and passionate. Christopher seems like your average college boy, but I think there is more to his story. I loved that Aleena had a close relationship to her parents and sought her mother out for advice. From keywords, Jared used it is clear he had some professional help, but I wish yet again that the characters recommended it…even if Aleena was able to get Jared to open up. Since this story will continue, it is my hope Jared gets additional help.

Come to Me Quietly was beautifully written, and the characters came to life allowing me to feel their emotions and become swept up in their relationship. I loved how Jackson wrote this, from the dual perspectives to the flashbacks. She slowly revealed the tragic event and the fallout that resulted in Jared leaving town. While this was an emotional read, it was relatively low on angst and unnecessary drama. I love the friendship to lover’s trope, and it added to the depth of their relationship. Through her powerful writing I became connected to these characters, cheered their growth, mourned set-backs and desperately sought my HEA. The tale ended well, with a few reveals and developments that I am anxious to see unfold. A beautiful start to a powerful romance.

Copy received in exchange for unbiased review​. Full review originally published @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer​