Both Ari and Russell feel the need to hide certain parts of themselves from the world, but their revealing these secrets to each other makes their relationship stronger and more compelling. They seem to form this special bond, an easiness and understanding. As they continue to grow as a couple, they begin to grow themselves as well, finding more confidence and learning to trust themselves and voice their anger or disappointment.
The plot is quite far fetched and very unprofessional, but it adds a lot of humor to the story. As well, the storyline allows for more moments of connection between the main couple and between Ari and her boss, Torrance. Ari is so upset with her work because she wants more out of it, with a desire for the famous Torrance to become her mentor. So, while Ari's motivations stem from a selfish desire to further her career, her desires help to rebuild a team environment at her office, and she actually feels deeply that these two people need to reconnect (if not romantically, then hopefully as friends). The representation in this novel was also very well handled. Specifically, Ari's relationship with her mother in terms of their both having depression and how that has shaped their bond. Ari bases much of her life around how she wants to be nothing like her mother, who ignored her depression for years. Her mother does not understand Ari's need for therapy, shoots criticism at her everytime she sees her, and pushes her to her darkest parts. So, when her mother finally decides to seek help after a very bad episode, Ari feels conflicted. She is happy her mother is finally getting the help, but angry it was not sooner. She has a hard time forgiving her mother, which I think is in part because she has such a hard time with herself and always having to be sunshine and never being real. Russell Barringer is an amazing character and I wanted to fold him into a soft, warm blanket every time he worried about his weight, his looks, and the fact he has a twelve year old daughter. He is so unflinchingly kind, smart about sports, and he adores his daughter unabashedly. He makes sure he understands Ari and what she needs from him when it comes to her depression, or work, or life in general. He is forthright, shy, and a fantastic dresser. Aso, how cute is it that he calls Ari "weather girl" and she calls him "sports dude". And the steam, phew! Yes, please! Loved how worked up Russell would get over Ari, and vice versa. Also, their communication during intimacy, making sure they were both enjoying themselves and what was happening, was just so refreshing. Claps all around. I will say there was a part at the end that kind of rubbed me the wrong way. Having to do with using someone else's big day for your own gains, no thanks. Overall, a very fun and enjoyable read about two wonderful people who deserve all the love.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Currently ReadingGraphic Novel
Romance Audiobook
Archives
April 2024
|