****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
This story is interesting to read for many reasons. First, the book is very well written with descriptive prose, expressive dialogue and smooth transitions. The story spans a period of about twenty five years, but the events and years pass quickly to reach the present, or near present, which takes up the majority of the pages. While the reader does not experience most of the day to day growth of the H/H over time, the author does a good job of developing the characters. I feel like I know and understand both Tessa and Shane. On the one hand the relationship between Tessa and Shane is sweet, simple and easy; easy that is if either wanted to follow the prescribed path of HS sweethearts (at least sr sweethearts) and remain in their hometown. Both, though, have aspirations that will force them apart, at least for awhile. Once they are reunited (it is a love story so of course they are reunited), the easy, loving, poignant connection is stronger than ever. At this point is when you need to brace yourself because these beautiful, intelligent, strong, passionate lovers are about to face the worse possible circumstances. As much as I read; As often as I choose books with difficult topics; As much as I know I read for the HEA and always get my wish, my heart still stopped at least twice in the third art of this book. Honestly, it's one of the hardest books I have ever read. Not every scenario is necessarily believable. Choices are made that seem selfish and shallow, yet brave. These characters ( secondary characters are fantastic!) are real. They are human. The story could, for want of a few bits of hyperbole, could be real. For these reasons, I read this beautiful, painfully poignant, devastating, yet inspiring book in less than 4 hrs. Get ready to cry...but I hope you will read too! Btw...shout out to AM Madden for recommending this author and series ( I love her books too, especially "Backstage").
