Knowing this is TJR’s first novel makes me impressed by the quality of the writing and story-telling. Even in her debut, Reid is able to tell a story unlike others. She makes the mundane parts of life feel like something worth reading and the diabolical parts of life relatable. This book made me ugly cry several times. It was a good love story about found family and building a life that you’re proud of despite shitty circumstances. 

Elsie and Ben have a whirlwind romance. After 6 months together, they elope. Sadly, 9 days after their wedding, Ben is in a tragic accident. 

This book is not my favourite TJR book, but it is incredibly emotional and heartbreaking. We jump between two  timelines as the story interweaves Ben and Elsies love story with Elsie and Susan's (Ben's mom) journey to healing. I thought that this structure was incredibly impactful.

I didn't really connect to Elsie or Ben. I felt like their backstory, though cute, was pretty cheesy and at times Elsie was pretty immature. The scene at the Burger King before the wedding made me cringe. Elsie was acting like a total brat. 

In the present, I appreciated how sensitivity this topic was approached. I think that Ana was my favourite character. She was there to support Elsie through everything, even when Elsie treated her like garbage. I liked that Susan and Elsie made such a strong connection and helped each other through the healing process. 

I really liked the ending. I actually thought it was quite perfect. 

Tropes: Instalove, life after loss, found family