I went into this completely blind and I'm IMPRESSED! A DEBUT?! I finished this in two sittings because I simply could not think about anything else. 

 

Overall Thoughts: 

- Multiple POVs to provide a rich, multifaceted narrative that enhances the depth and complexity of the story. To see the world beyond what Cate herself if experiencing so that we are able to gain insight into how others perceive Cate which was a really fun way of structuring. It really pulls you into the story and provides a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as we get to experience the highs and lows of each character's journey. It turns the story into a more immersive experience, where the emotional stakes feel higher because they’re seen from multiple angles. (Hello Evelyn Hugo???) 

 

- Definitely comparable to "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" but not so much "First Lie Wins" like the blurb mentioned. I wouldn't consider this a thriller at all but more literary fiction. It's a deep dive into Cate Kay's character and exploring the relationships of those who are close to her. 

 

- This author is going to kill it. I feel like this story would be great for an adaptation (I work in publishing, adaptating books to film/TV so I always have my radar out for writers like Kate Fagan. She excites me). 

 

Identity and Self-Discovery: Cate's journey is all about finding herself amid life's twists and turns. The title hints at her living multiple "lives"—phases that reflect her personal evolution and the tension between who she is and who she wants to become. It's a relatable exploration of self, especially for those grappling with their own transformations. 

 

Desire vs. Responsibility: Cate's impulsive decisions, like rerouting her flight, underscore the eternal struggle between pursuing one's desires and fulfilling responsibilities. This universal theme of balancing wants and needs is at the heart of Cate’s story, showing how our choices can liberate us or pull us deeper into conflict. 

 

Relationships and Growth: Cate's relationships with Ryan, Sidney, and others are more than just background noise—they are critical to her development. The book explores how friendships, romance, and loyalty shape our paths, often complicating our sense of self. It’s a reminder of the profound impact people can have on our lives. 

 

Escapism and New Beginnings: From Los Angeles to Charleston, Cate is drawn to the idea of starting over—escaping her past for the allure of something new. This theme resonates with anyone who has ever dreamed of a fresh start, though the novel questions whether these new beginnings truly offer freedom or are simply ways to avoid facing deeper issues. 

 

Consequences of Impulsivity: Cate’s tendency to act on a whim adds a layer of tension, highlighting how impulsive decisions can lead to both exhilarating and disastrous outcomes. It’s a powerful look at the thrill of living in the moment and the unavoidable consequences that follow. 

 

Women, Ambition, and Independence: At its core, this novel is about a modern, ambitious woman striving to carve out her own path. Cate’s journey explores the nuances of personal ambition and independence, particularly as she navigates the expectations placed upon her. This aspect of the story will resonate with readers familiar with the pressures of balancing career, personal life, and relationships. 

 

- This novel perfectly captures the messy reality of life's transitions and the ongoing search for authenticity. It reminds us that while new beginnings can be empowering, they come with many challenges that force us to confront our truest selves. This is a story about embracing who you are, even when it's complicated, especially when it's complicated—and understanding that sometimes the only way to find yourself is by getting a little lost first. 

 

My Only Negative: 

The ENDING!! Ahh. It felt incredibly rushed, leaving us wanting more closure. (view spoiler) Key moments are glossed over, missing the emotional impact and payoff we’ve been waiting for. We don’t get to see how Cate/Cass/Annie's life truly unfolds after these pivotal events, making the conclusion feel incomplete and leaving us craving a more satisfying ending. Wouldn't have minded the book a bit longer to ride out the ending a bit but oh well, it was still amazing and I loved every moment of it.