The only negative I felt about this novel were the couple instances where I felt the scene seemed too surreal or a little unbelievable, or the repetitiveness of a few scenes. However, this was very slight, and the rest of the narrative was so heart wrenching and powerful that you move past these instances quite quickly and are sucked back in to the story. Wes is a world famous actor, with that comes press and misrepresentation. He is a man fighting his past in order to have a better future. While at first he seems arrogant and closed off, you begin to connect with him, to understand his softer side and why he has built a wall around himself. He is loyal, funny and dependable. He looks after those he loves and hides his true feelings in order to protect himself (even if this leads to creating isolation). Ari is fearless, determined and powerful. However, this fearlessness and determination cause her to block out those that love her. Her independence may lead to trouble, possibly affecting the stunt career she has worked so hard to start. In many instances I could see myself in Ari, fearing to let others in or ask for help. I could feel empathy in her avoidance and shame in her guilt. There were so many wonderful side characters that helped to build up the main characters. They made them more relatable, more lovable, more human. I loved Ollie, Wes' best friend, who later becomes integral to the story and the growth of the narrative. The setting is also beautiful and refreshing. I could imagine the warmth of the sun, the waves of the Ionian sea crashing to shore and around the Rubble, the breeze, the beauty of white washed buildings, of the history there, and of the small community. The island itself became a character, offering hospitality and love. A true home of comfort. I loved this take on a classic, about two people from different walks in life meeting and ultimately changing each other. Such a realistic love story, filled with hardships that must be overcome in order for the characters to be themselves and to learn to trust and love (both themselves and others). I cannot recommend it enough, but be ready for tears, smiles and laughter (have Kleenex on hand). Favourite quote: "I had no idea that we become a different version of ourselves when we're with someone; that we're different when we're alone...Not different as in not myself. Different as in better. A better me. A more open me, a safer me." (pg. 330)
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