Please check your trigger warnings before you open this book up. While there is a beautiful love story ultimately told here, there are some very heavy moments to read.

There were moments where I needed to step away and process what I had read. As tough as it was to read at times, Kennedy's messaging is clear about domestic violence and survivors. We have to show them grace and understand that it's not as easy to leave as we would like to think.

I found myself admiring Iris' strength. I know she represents what many women in real life have experienced unfortunately. I know this was influenced by horrifying headlines in the world of sports where athletes have committed heinous acts against women only to receive light punishments by the various leagues if any punishment at all.

I really appreciated how August and Iris' relationship shone amongst some of the more horrifying moments of the book.