I had no choice but to give Belvin a 5 star for what feels like a breath of fresh for her installments of the Connecticut King series after the extended emotional journey that was the and Baileys. Rut and Parker are proof that growth and accountably can be obtained when those around you genuinely desire for you to be the best version of yourself. 

Let’s be clear: Rutledge Kadar Amare is nobody’s Prince Charming. Yet somehow, I found myself wanting this young man to  develop some form of emotional intelligence. I’ll be frank and say that personally, I would NEVER advise no woman to provide the emotional labor Parker does in order for Rut to develop into the main he became. However I realize that this aspect of their union is a reality for some couples that may have found themselves being the more emotionally intelligent/aware individual in a partnership. 

Rut isn’t the only one that undergoes some major growth, as Parker had many moments of critical self-reflection about the current state of her life and where she wants it to go. In a way, these two found each other at crucial parts in their journey to being their best selves which culminated into a unique love story. Fans of romantic realism with three dimensional characters, character development, and a compelling storyline are in for a treat.