I want to start off by saying that this probably would have been a 5⭐️ read but for some reason I stopped halfway and read Binding 13 in between and honestly this just didn’t match that so I had to go 4⭐️.

When I tell you I sobbed reading this, I’m literally not joking and I have photographic evidence. Both the mc’s have such sad pasts/childhoods. When they started opening up to each other and revealing what life used to be like for them my eyes were a waterfall 😭. Because of this, I would heed CW’s as I can see this book being incredibly triggering for some. The way they both lean on, and accept each other in spite of and because of their pasts is so beautiful I literally am emotional now even thinking about it.

The romance was a slow burn but it made sense for the characters and I didn’t find it too slow. There was a constant note of tension between them for the whole book which was delicious. When the spice comes it's 100% worth the wait. Communication was always great, and it was a very adult relationship. No third act breakup which for me is always a positive too. 

Ellie and Nico are my fave duo. Can’t be convinced otherwise. The love between them was beautiful and I loved that element of the story so much. 

It has jealousy, pining, childhood crush, found family (kind of), single dad, enemies to friends to lovers, cute kid, tonnes of animals, mh rep, nicknames, and slow burn deliciousness. 

Overall this was a heartwarming romance about two people who defied odds. Survived and fought for what they want and found it in each other. This isn't really that lighthearted though as there are some serious themes. So please bear that in mind.