My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it
Synopsis
Grace Ebert is focused on graduating college and launching her career as a recreational therapist, but one monumental challenge stands in her math. Desperate for help as she struggles to complete her final college course, she hires Noah Jennings to tutor her. Naturally outgoing, Grace is determined to get to know the surly math whiz, but when she pushes too hard for connection, Noah makes it painfully clear that they will never be friends and cuts ties with her. Noah feels his rejection of Grace’s friendship is perfectly justified, but when he’s unexpectedly stuck working with her again, he can’t help but admire her caring heart and determination. As Noah addresses his mental health and Grace confronts her guilt, they form an undeniable bond over the similarity of their haunting grief; still, they must resolve the volatile past that stands between them if they hope to build a future together.
My Review
Talk about getting off on the wrong foot! Grace and Noah begin on a disastrous blind double date, and then meet years later for tutoring sessions- but she doesn't remember him. Even though Noah takes grump to the next level, they are attracted to each other and form a slight friendship... which Noah burns to the ground. It was interesting how much of the book is spent with them not together, but showing them go through their own separate lives, which then randomly intersect. Serving on a mission trip in Mexico gives them a second chance, but outside forces intervene. More life happens, and then a third chance is sought by Noah, when it's almost too late. I wasn't feeling fully connected to the characters, but I appreciated that the author sensitively handled themes of grief, mental health, judging, and forgiveness. The difficulties in their early interactions made the reconciliation that much sweeter in the end, and both Grace and Noah go through so much character growth.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
