⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (3.5 rounded to 4)

After absolutely adoring Morbidly Yours, I was beyond excited to dive into Heart Strings. Ivy Fairbanks has such a knack for crafting immersive settings and dynamic side characters, and this book was no exception. Galway and the Irish castle wedding were so perfect and I loved the setting. However, while I enjoyed this second chance romance, it didn’t quite hit the same for me as her first novel.

My biggest struggle was connecting with Aidan and Lo, both individually and as a couple. Their chemistry leaned heavily into instalust, and I found myself craving deeper emotional connection rather than just physical attraction. Lo, in particular, was frustrating and while I admired her strength and resilience, her approach to relationships (especially with Aidan) made her hard to root for at times. I completely understood why she had walls up, but her stubbornness often bordered on exhausting.

That said, the music infused romance, the tension of unresolved feelings, and the forced proximity at the wedding kept me engaged. Aidan’s devotion was sweet, and the Irish setting made everything feel all the more romantic. While it wasn’t a perfect read for me, if you do love exes to lovers stories and dramatic second chances, then you will likely enjoy this one!

Would I recommend it? Yes, especially if you’re a sucker for a moody musician MMC and a breathtaking Irish backdrop. Just be prepared for some frustrating FMC moments along the way!

Thank you to NetGalley, Ivy Fairbanks, and Penguin G.P. Putnams Son’s for the eARC of this book.