Stars: 4 stars
Author: Amy Harmon
Genre: New Adult
Publisher: Smashwords
After reading review after review of people who read an Amy Harmon book and were hooked I figured it was time to pick one up.
This is a very sweet, but heart-wrenching story. Since the blurb talks a lot about Ambrose coming back from war and having to face life again after losing four friends and being disfigured, I thought the story would dive right in there and begin with the romance between Fern and Ambrose, but it doesn't. In truth the story reads more like a YA book than either New Adult or romance. The romance between Fern and Ambrose is a strong central element to plot but much of the story is the back story of Ambrose, Fern and Bailey growing up in a small town in Pennsylvania.
Bailey, Fern's cousin, is also essential to the story. He is Fern's best friend and confidante. Bailey has Duchenne's muscular dystrophy. Bailey's character was one of the most important parts of the story for me. I have personal experience with a friend with muscular dystrophy and felt Bailey's struggles keenly.
Without spoiling it, Harmon does a good job of introducing all the elements and characters she needs for the ending of the book early on, but it isn't a standard romance. The plot, flow and overall feel of the book are more young adult than romance. I liked that about it, because it was very PG, sweet and thoughtful.
No comments:
Post a Comment