(Note: A copy of this book was kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.)


Rebecca Phillips is a talented author in that this book felt incredibly smooth. The characters seemed plausible, tangible, and the story made sense. The dialogue was tight and never felt if it went over the top in terms of the dramatic tones of the story. The story felt genuine. I found myself unwilling to step away from the book, finishing the story within a day.

Riley is a tough girl in that she has had to grow up faster than many of her classmates. This characterization was shown throughout the interactions between Riley and her friends. Riley stood her ground in regards to her principles. I appreciate that Phillips did not make Riley into a puritanical character but rather a young woman whose dreams sometimes conflict with her desires. I mention this aspect of the story because it felt honest and refreshing.

Cole’s characterization was great as well. He’s the perfect boy because he has flaws and is just as human as Riley. Phillips created a balance between the two love interests, which made their interactions fun to read. Riley’s family was interesting as well, especially with Riley’s mother. There was a slightly, darker Gilmore Girls tone to their conversations but you could see the love that they had for each other.

This book was also about the grief process, which is a difficult thing to undergo, no matter what stage you are currently experiencing. While Riley did have a great support system around her, it was the process of acknowledging the problem that became the struggle. The steps towards that realization are never easy. Phillips succeeds in balancing this struggle while never going into a overdramatic tone.

Overall, the book was very enjoyable. I wouldn’t have minded if the book had been a wee bit longer as I felt invested in the story and was curious about the young woman Riley would become in later years. (Rebecca? Sequel?)