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romanticread 's review for:

Secret Love by Willow Aster
4.0

From an adorable meet cute to a few speedbumps along the way, I enjoyed seeing Henley & Tru work their way into a HEA that works for them. A journey that is somehow both angsty and not angsty at the same time. I think maybe because those problem moments are telegraphed pretty well but then quickly resolved. It’s not necessarily bad, just different.

The pacing is also interesting. It seems like a slow burn but large chunks of time are done off page so overall the story moves pretty quickly. I kinda wish we’d gotten a few more of those moments on page, because there was the opportunity for some really good relaxed moments between Tru and Henley as well as them with their friends and family.

Speaking of friends and family, I have to say those are my favorite parts of the book. The way Henley is with his kids – the closeness, respect, and support that they show each other. But also the mistakes that are made along the way. And I could go on for ages about the amazing relationship between Henley and his friends. Those guys are the epitome of well adjusted and in touch with their emotions. The way they freely show their love & support for each other, recognizing and sharing their feelings both good and bad, while at the same time not being afraid of giving each other hell *chefs kiss* I want more of this kind of representation of healthy, respectful men in my books.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**