This book was kind of middle of the road for me. There were definitely some cute moments and a good chunk of spice between Arthur and Derrick. However, I found it to be a tad repetitive in terms of why they could not actually be together and about what was holding them back. It felt like conflict for conflicts sake and unrealistic. I also found that at times the writing was a little too cheesy, there were times when I would cringe at how sweet or too perfect a moment seemed or the wording used came off unbelievable. It just felt that if it had been written a little less tropey, a little less creating reasons for them to be apart for the sake of pushing forward plot, than it would have been more believable. I did enjoy how much Derrick stuck up for Arthur to his overly ambitious (must win at all costs) family. But, I would have liked to see some growth in the Euler clan, to see that they made Arthur feel inadequate for not believing in competition at all costs. Or, even for them to acknowledge that he was good at his career, doing so well on his own with his music. It just seemed that once Arthur had Derrick his family issues no longer mattered? Or Arthur had to grow out of his feelings, even though he was the one who was being mistreated. I think my favourite part was Derrick exploring his own ambitions and career path. Rethinking what it is he wanted and why. Did he want to be on a submarine forever, or was he just there because he thought it showed he had worth? Was he just going through the motions? He evaluates how he came to be Chief, his fears, his hopes, and Arthur gives him space to decide what he wants to do with his life. No pressure, just acceptance and love. Arthur and Derrick both have incredible growth as characters in this novel. Arthur has to separate his perceptions of his parent's love from his own idea of a loving relationship, in order to give himself and Derrick a chance. Derrick has to work on finding ways in which to give himself space to love, to find another means of being happy, to see that work is not the only way he can contribute to this world. So, a cute, quick read with some steamy scenes. I think if you enjoy fake dating and family dynamics you will enjoy this book. Arthur and Derrick are quite adorable and work well together in terms of encouragement and support. Thank you to Harlequin Publicity Team for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Currently ReadingGraphic Novel
Romance Audiobook
Archives
April 2024
|