pageswithmeg's reviews
351 reviews

I love Falon—Right on Cue was one of my favorites of 2024. But Change of Heart fell flat for me. The FMC was *too* insufferable that, despite everything, was never redeemed in the story for me. The use of "sweetheart" from the MMC drove me insane the entire time. I don't find that as a term of endearment and even if he wasn't trying to be condescending, it gave me that vibe. There were parts that I loved—the Gilmore Girls vibe of the town, the festivals, and the people. But overall? I struggled to get through it.

Thank you to NetGalley & Penguin Group Putnam for the advanced reader copy.

The Favorites by Layne Fargo

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emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

“There are lots of different kinds of love. Love like a steady, warming campfire that keeps you alive in the cold. Love like a raging blaze that burns down everything in its path until nothing but ash remains.”

This may be one of the easiest five stars I have given since I took reading back up a couple of years ago. Talk about a book that hooks you from the first chapter… I couldn’t put it down.

The character development in this book is second to none. Layne does an exceptional job of making you feel for these characters; whether it is love, hate, annoyance, or disbelief. They’re complex. They’ll drive you wild. They’ll force you to feel deeply as you read.

I’ve also been a big fan lately of podcast or documentary subplots infused into the story (think Listen for the Lie), and this one is done masterfully. While I read it vs. listening on audio, Layne wrote these sections in such a way that I felt like I was actually watching a documentary.

And let’s talk about the settings… Jet-setting around the world for ice dancing competitions could be confusing if not written well. But Layne really nailed it. I felt like I had been transported to Paris, Sochi, Vancouver…that I was *in* the story.

The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedy

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5.0

It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan

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4.5

From a writing perspective alone, Annabel Monaghan is one of my favorite authors. She gives the reader the exact amount of story and emotion to make us fall in love and feel HARD for these characters. I really enjoyed It's a Love Story and the unraveling (or ravel-ing?) of Jane and Dan's story. I was swept up in their love story that I had a hard time putting it down. I highly recommend!

Thanks to NetGalley and Putnam Books for the advanced reader copy.

The Love Haters by Katherine Center

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective fast-paced

Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes

4.5

“Every time you have to be brave, you get to be a little braver next time.”

There is a reason that Katherine Center is a must-read for me. She is brilliant, and this may be one of her best yet. Katie and Hutch are so insanely likable, and I loved watching their love story unfold. The emphasis on self-care and self-care was also deeply moving for me.

In truth Katherine fashion, there is a heartwrenching, emotional storyline that will bring tears to your eyes, as well. I love that there is always so much more to Katherine’s characters and this book was no different.

I highly recommend adding this to your TBR and picking it up when it releases on May 20, 2025!

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

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pageswithmeg's reviews 351 reviews

pageswithmeg's reviews
351 reviews