I think the best part of this book is what appears to be a fun and spicy vacation romance is also an in depth exploration of understanding what love and being a true partner is. Watching both Addie and Cooper find that contentment you feel when you find you’re person was the most romantic part of this book. The “I love you” sharing moment is my favorite I’ve ever read and lives in my head rent free. Thrillers based on domestic violence are a favourite psychological thriller theme, but this one makes an impact because of its professional language and authenticity. It's not easy to read, the author jumps between timelines, the abuser and his victims but although it is sometimes difficult to follow, it makes it realistic and believable. I’ve been planning my trip across the world for years. So, imagine my surprise and utter disappointment when unforeseen circumstances leave me with no travel companion and a wallet too empty to reschedule. Far too stubborn to cancel, and left with little options, I turn to the only person who just so happens to have the entire summer free. Addie Cooper is young, wild, and ready for her European adventure. She’s a free spirit who’s finally taking the leap to explore, but she isn’t confident enough to do it alone. When her best friend has to cancel at the last minute, family friend Cooper who’s she’s only known in passing as her older brother’s best friend is the designated plus one. Cooper is older, reserved, and on the cusp of having his lifelong dream come true. When his dad and Addie’s parents convince him to travel Europe over the summer with Addie, who views as friend adjacent, he gets more than he bargained for in this trip. But fate turned a complete flip when something happened between her and Santiago Lopez, ang lalaking noong una pa lang ay hindi niya na gusto. Maliit ang tingin niya rito dahil sa pagiging ulila at bastardo.

What really sealed the deal in this one not grabbing me at all though was also in how the story is told. We begin with a short eerie prologue to gain interest which wasn’t too bad but then come the chapters that jump all around. The sections include one week after, Cornwall 2016, the before (going further into their past) and a current time. Toss this jumping around time wise into what was already slow moving for me and it really just wasn’t my cup of tea at all unfortunately. If this one sounds good to you though I’d certainly suggest giving it a try as I know some will love it.

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You thought we wouldn’t see each other again and that if we did, I wouldn’t want you,” he finishes for me. This series is a second gen series and the family/friend dynamics are so so amazing. And when Maddox makes an appearance I about died. We love a protective older brother moment! I fell for Maddox HARD but Cooper gave him a run for his moneyyyyyy. The mouth on him? Bye.

I loved watching these two navigate their feelings for each other. They’ve known each other forever, so to deal with romantic feelings is new territory for them both. The author did a great job of including the family without taking the spotlight off of Adalyn and Cooper. I like that the third act conflict (not breakup) didn’t last forever. They talked it out like adults and I was here for it. I think I’ve made a mistake by not being more honest with you,” he starts, his voice no more than a husky whisper.

Publication Order of Amateurs In Love Books

His pursuit of her after ten years is carried out with similar ruthless intent. Again this is overlong for me; the medical detail sometimes detracts from the story's compelling suspense element. The characters are not easy to empathise. Mainly due to the writing style relying more on narration than showing how the characters feel through their actions and emotions. Could have been a sweet second chance if not for the fact that while Hero remained celibate and a virgin for the entire 8 year separation, heroine unfortunately did not! She lost her virginity in college and had 2 lovers. As Poppy tries to navigate the challenges in her personal and professional life, she starts to unravel a web of deceit and lies that threaten to destroy everything she has worked so hard for. She must confront the truth about her husband’s affair and come to terms with the mistakes she has made in her own life. Thank you so much Hannah for listening to me squeal about them as I read, an early copy, and a PR box!! I’m so grateful 🫶