In this book the relationships were so complex, it felt heavy, but real in the sense that you looked at each person's relationship with another you knew it wasn't perfect. There was never the possibility of a happily ever after where all problems were solved. In the end, even though Gabriel wasn't dead, Chloe and Nate still missed out on 20+ years of their child's life. Even though Chloe and Nate are together again and talking through their secrets, they still have an unbelievably fractured relationship. These themes are hints of reality.
This book is beautifully written, but it's not a feel good easy read. It is worth it though