The first word that comes to mind after reading this book is ‘swoon’. Honestly, although the book deals with some very important and sometimes difficult topics, my heart kept beating to the rhythm of the story between Natalie and Sven as I read it. I think I fell as much in love with the characters in the book as I did with their love story. So, I can safely say that I loved reading Sven. 

 

Of course, even though Sven and Natalie have found a special place in my heart, no one will ever be able to compete with Winnie. This baby is absolutely perfect—no, I’m not exaggerating. I admire the way Sven has accepted and embraced his role as a father so quickly. Overnight he goes from being a playboy to a father whose world revolves around his daughter’s life, and it’s really good to see that kind of change, especially as it feels more like the exception than the norm. 

 

I also admire Natalie. Although she could have complied with the rules imposed by the board at the school where she worked, she chose to act in the best interests of her students and to fight against the bigotry of a few. Even though this book is a work of fiction, this event resonates strongly with what is happening in the United States today, and I pay tribute to Mary Warren for tackling this issue in this book. Coming back to Natalie—our Southern belle—we really feel that the bond she formed with Winnie was very natural. Initially hired as her nanny, she very quickly takes on a much more important role in the infant’s life. 

 

I loved seeing how Natalie and Sven were there for each other. They take turns supporting each other through the difficult times they face. I also feel a deep contempt for Sven’s father. I abhor that kind of character, and I think the author has done a very good job of showing how despicable he is. 

 

I’m really proud to have had the chance to discover Sven a few weeks early, even though I would have read it the day it came out if I hadn’t been fortunate enough to get an ARC. 

 

Thanks to Mary Warren for giving me the opportunity to receive an ARC of Sven. This review is my own. All opinions expressed are mine.