Defiant Little Love

by Rachael Brownell

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Defiant Little Love, the ninth and final book in Rachael Brownell’s Lake State University series, was one of my highly anticipated books for 2023. A mixed feeling of excitement and nervousness overcame me when I picked it up. I enjoyed all the books in the series and so my expectations for Defiant Little Love were extremely high. Well, Max and Kora’s story delivered as expected, making it a fitting conclusion to the series. Definitely worth the wait. 

It saddens me to say goodbye to the characters, but it lifted my spirit to see them overcome the obstacles, some of which were of their own doing, on their journey to happily ever after. From the start of the series, we knew Max was in love with someone. However, the identity of said person remained a mystery throughout. Two persons, Cleo and Kora, came to mind and as I went through the series, I narrowed it down to Cleo, but then book seven revealed I made the wrong choice. Kora was the one who made Max as cranky as a bear.

In Defiant Little Love, readers learn the reason Max and Kora kept their relationship secret. Now after reading this installment, I recommend the series be read in order. This installment contains spoilers for the previous books in the series. Readers who enjoy angsty stories will without a doubt love Max and Kora’s story. Their back and forth and push and pull actions, coupled with secrets and mistrust, created the perfect recipe for an angsty romance.

The back-and-forth movement between timelines reveals how the hero and heroine met. It also shed light on the hurdles they faced in their relationship up to now. In the previous books, Max came off as an overbearing and irritating jerk, but Defiant Little Love revealed him in a different light. There was so much to him than meets the eye. 

In my review of Twisted Little Lies, I mentioned my frustration with Cora. Well, this installment revealed the domino effect her actions had on Max and Kora’s relationship issues. Despite all the push and pull, I thought they made a fantastic couple. These two literally had me on edge, wondering if they will ever get it right.

I really enjoyed all the books in the Lake State University series, but Max and Kora are my favourite couple. Brownell definitely saved the best for last. If you’re looking for a fun series in a college setting, then this one is a must-read!This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading