This debut novel is an excellent portrayal of the stages of grief and the incredible hole the death of loved ones leaves, whether it’s a parent, a child, a niece or nephew, or a friend. In this case, Jo has recently lost her nephew Samson to a tragic accident after suddenly losing her father when she was only 12. As a result, she’s closed herself off emotionally to avoid being hurt or abandoned again. Of course, it takes a hot guy (in all his iterations) and the vulnerability of her two grieving nieces (visiting for the summer) to make her realize that being alone is no way to live.
The romance, which starts with a steamy meet-cute kiss in a bar, builds slowly, especially since both Alex and Jo are resistant to opening themselves up. However, the friendship is enviable and the way they tease and laugh together is delightful. Jo is also blessed with a colorful, quirky best friend and boss, Nina, who pushes her out of her comfort zone by encouraging her to live her fullest life leading up to her 30th birthday. In fact, she suggested the 30 by 30 bucket list which starts with a blog and drives much of the action throughout the story. When Samson’s sudden death temporarily halts her progress and the unexpected arrival of her nieces derails her plans for a vacation to Europe to check off two items on the list (sleep in a castle and visit 10 countries), it takes some creative thinking to achieve her goal. However, with the help of her friends and family, completion might be attainable.
The emotions Ruiz draws from readers is a testament to her power as a storyteller. She doesn’t shy away from the hard truths, yet she’s respectful of the pain and guilt the death of a child evokes. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Berkley through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
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