I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Everything We Keep by Kerry Lonsdale Published by Lake Union Publishing on August 1st 2016
Genres: Contemporary, Contemporary Women, Fiction, Romance
Pages: 296
Format: Paperback
Source: the publisher
Aimee Tierney's wedding day turns into a funeral service when her childhood sweetheart James Donato disappears during a boating trip. Two months later his body is recovered and Aimee must prepare for a life without him instead of a future with him. As if that isn't enough, a woman approaches her at the service, claiming that James isn't dead.
Forced to replan her future, Aimee plans to follow her dream and open a coffee house. Still in the back of her mind, though, is the possibility that James is alive. As she digs through the clues, she uncovers secrets meant to keep her safe, ones that question the life they had together. Is this...closure she's attempting to gain worth all the pain she is uncovering?
Let’s start with what I loved about this book! I loved Aimee’s character. I felt great sympathy for her ordeal. I can’t imagine the pain she must be feeling. I appreciated that she attempted to move on with her life, opening the coffee shop she dreamed of. I understood her reluctance to accept her fiance’s death, especially given all the clues that presented themselves. The flashbacks to their childhood and the evolution from a friendship to romance felt genuine and completely heartwarming.
What I didn’t like about the book: the last quarter. What was revealed seemed rushed, not at all as fleshed out as the rest of the novel. While I was surprised at what transpired, it was quite disappointing to say the least. Also, the sex scenes. There are only two, but they felt as though they were the same, only with different people. The same descriptors were used, including the sound of the foil wrapper opening.
Overall, I wouldn’t say this was a wasted read, but it certainly had much more potential. Apparently it is the first book in a series. I won’t be rushing out to read the next book, but may give it a try.
Bottom line: This is certainly an escapist read, but lacking in substance.
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