Merritt Adams was used to taking care of herself. With her mother’s selfish abandonment, and her father’s shocking suicide, Merritt is convinced that nobody will ever stick around for long. However, after she is mysteriously rescued from a fiery crash, Merritt needs to learn how to accept help, and love – even if it comes from a person she swore she would never be interested in.
In addition to the buzz surrounding Merritt’s tragic headlines, everyone is talking about the return of the charismatic Chase Brooks. After spending two years in California aspiring to become a rock star, he is back home in New York. What people do not know is the reason why he had to leave his dreams behind.
Two sad souls could be good for each other, but Merritt is not so sure. Crossing paths with Chase will challenge everything she thought she knew – and after she finds out who really rescued her from the mangled car that night, her life will be changed forever.
Quarter Finalist
Plot/Idea: 10 out of 10
Originality: 9 out of 10
Prose: 9 out of 10
Character/Execution: 9 out of 10
Overall: 9.25 out of 10
Assessment:
Plot: This novel's fast-paced plot is well structured and compelling. The narrative is sometimes pleasantly predictable and the book makes for a comforting and nostalgic read.
Prose: Granata's novel boasts flirtatious, bubbly dialogue and a strong and entertaining narrative voice. Plenty of life lessons also give heft to this engaging story.
Originality: This is a fun, uplifting romance novel inspired by genre classics. However, the author infuses the work with her own take on grief, illness, abandonment, new love, and lifelong friendship.
Character Development: Granata’s characters are both realistic and relatable, even if some of them are vaguely reminiscent of genre types. Nonetheless, the cast is fun, well crafted, and entertaining.
Blurb: A poignant tale full of brightness and hope.
Date Submitted: May 03, 2018
