To state that I've discovered a new favorite author is a bit of a misnomer, in the best way possible. Because it's not one, but two women who have penned this beautiful novel. I have enough difficulty writing a book as a solitary author. But to have these two gifted writers come together and create something so flowing, cohesive, emotional, and real is an inspiration.
It's cliché, but from the opening page I was hooked. Which is exactly what you're aim is as a storyteller, but it's not always that simple. The introduction of Tate and Sam alongside the other characters, who although minor, play a significant role in the overall story, is beautifully done. And the manner in which the story unfolds is filled with a combination of fragility and strength that leaves the reader wondering what turn the narrative will take next.
For an author to take a societal issue and meld it with personal ambitions and a tender but aching love story is not a simple task, but Christina Lauren has done just that. I am not one who necessarily enjoys cussing and intimate scenes in a novel. And there are plenty of both in this book. But they're placed in just the right places and with exactly the right intensity that it makes perfect sense. It's an accurate reflection of life instead of an artificial depiction of the same.
My first encounter with this co-author duo was "Love and Other Words". I was pretty sure that finding a story like that would occur once in a blue moon. But this novel and its title has proven otherwise. And I'm already certain that number three is waiting for me on the horizon.
Dave’s Rating: ☕️☕️☕️☕️
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